We are pleased to present a new Solo Travel Destination Post from Julie, a member of the Solo Travel Society on Facebook. Julie is from Canada, and submitted the following report about the Aran Islands. Do you have a solo travel destination that you would like to recommend? Submit your description here, along with a few photos, and share it with fellow travelers!
Solo travel rating: 1 (1 is easiest, 3 is most difficult. Please see chart below)
Languages spoken: Gaelic, English
Reasons to go: The Arans are three islands off the west coast of Ireland. Also known as “the Islands of Saints and Scholars” they offer a great getaway from mainland Ireland.
It is quite secluded here, and feels a bit like going back in time. Inis Mohr is the largest of the islands, followed by Inis Meain and Inis Oirr, with a combined population of about 1,200.
Most people rent bicycles to travel around the island. On the 13 km tour, there is a great beach at the midway point. There is also a super hostel with great rooms, kitchen, and common room attached to a pub with a patio. I even found a couple of great places to hear music and join in.
There are stone fences all around the island with lots of friendly people and animals to stop and say hello to. Climb to the top of the famous fort of Dun Aengus for a great view and photo opportunity…not to mention a great work out!
It is an easy bus ride from Galway City to the terminal where you can catch a ferry to the islands.
Solo Travel Destination Rating System
Safety – 1 (1 very safe, 2 safe in most areas, 3 be cautious at all times.)
Language – 1 (1 English is first language, 2 English speakers easy to find, 3 English speakers rare)
Navigation – 1 (1 easy to navigate by transit or car, 2 poor transit, car necessary, 3 not easy to get around)
Culture – 1 (1 Similar to North America or Western Europe, 2 Different from above but relaxed and easy, 3 Challenging)
Average Rating – 1 (1 is easiest, 3 is most difficult)