Sri Lanka’s lush landscapes and architectural wonders will give you plenty of food for thought during your solo trip. Bring your hiking shoes and plenty of storage space in your camera. This tiny island country offers a surprising array of experiences, from backpacking in the misty mountains to elephant watching in the national parks.

If it’s serenity and soul searching you’re after, Sri Lanka’s forests are home to some world class yoga retreats, such as Ulpotha, where you can seek sanctuary staying in a mud hut surrounded by rice paddy fields.

It’s wise for women to dress conservatively in Sri Lanka (think flowy pants, long skirts, kimonos, shawls and modest t-shirts), so as not to attract unwanted attention or cause offence to locals. It’s also likely that you’ll be required to cover up when visiting any of the many great temples dotted throughout the island, so layer up on your fabrics.

Insider tip: Don’t leave your drink unattended when you’re in restaurants and bars. Due to reports of drink spiking, it’s best to avoid accepting drinks from strangers or people you’ve recently met, no matter how friendly they seem.

Portugal was voted as the fourth most peaceful country in the world, according to the Global Peace Index, making it a perfect spot for female travellers. It’s also one of the more affordable countries in Europe, with an easy-to-use public transportation system. The sunny cobblestone streets are perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating.

If you stay in Lisbon, consider including a few day trips into your itinerary, especially to Sintra, where you can visit three major castles in one historic city.

If relaxing on a beach, book in hand, beneath the Mediterranean sun is more your thing, head to the stunning stretches of sand along the coast of the Algarve. Highlights include Praia da Marinha in Lagoa (often seen in lists of ‘Europe’s best beaches’) and Praia de Vale Figueira in Carrapateira (to escape the crowds).

Insider tip: Pay attention to the flag warnings on Portuguese beaches. Red flags indicate danger, so don’t enter the water. If yellow flags are flying, it’s safe to paddle at the water’s edge but unsafe for swimming. A green flag indicates that it’s safe to swim. Chequered flags send the message that the beach is not attended by lifeguards.

Still relatively unknown and free from tourists, Namibia is currently a safe and politically stable country with intriguing wildlife and spectacular desert views.

If you’re a female solo traveller with a taste for adventure, this is a destination made for you. With one of the oldest deserts in the world and a sparse population, this is the perfect place for travellers seeking solitude and contemplation.

Renting a car is a good way to see the raw landscapes of Namibia, but distances between towns can be vast so stock up on food and water, and know who to call if you break down on your road trip. If you would prefer to spend your solo travels meeting new people, sign yourself up for a safari or desert tour.

Insider tip: There have been reports of foreigners being robbed by taxi drivers, so it’s important to take extra precautions, particularly at night. Don’t get in an unmarked taxi or hail one from the street. Ask at your hotel or hostel reception for advice on a reputable taxi company - they may even be able to book one on your behalf.

If the goal of your solo trip is to completely relax and unwind, you won’t find a better destination than Tahiti. With endless spa’s and long stretches of white sands, it’s the perfect place to switch off and escape reality.

For a truly relaxing solo holiday, consider booking a room on an island cruise. On a Tahitian cruise, you can explore the islands without having to manage the details of your own travel, accommodation and meals. Snorkel and swim in crystal clear waters by day, and dine under the stars by night.

Feeling adventurous? Hop on a short flight to one of the many surrounding islands, such as Fakarava, with its untouched landscapes and crystal clear lagoons. Or book a once-in-a-lifetime scuba diving trip in Tahiti, where you’ll get to swim with sharks, manta rays and sea turtles.

Insider tip: Take your solo travel to the next level by using your time in Tahiti for a digital detox. You probably won’t have great access to data or Wi-Fi anyway, so it’s the perfect chance to leave the world behind.