Shocking Claim for Woman Solo Traveller : US Influencer includes India in the list of ‘Unsafe’ for solo travellers

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📰 US Influencer Lists India Among ‘Unsafe’ Countries for Woman Solo Travellers — Debate Erupts Online

By News Desk | Updated: 27-05-2025

A viral video shared by US-based travel influencer Sarah Woodard has ignited a fierce debate on social media after she named India, Namibia, Turkey, the USA, and Tanzania as countries she found “unsafe for women solo travellers.” The short clip, which has now racked up over a million views, triggered strong reactions, especially from Indian netizens and global travel enthusiasts.

▶️ What Sparked the Controversy?

In the now-viral video, Woodard reflects on her personal travel experiences, highlighting countries where she felt uncomfortable or unsafe as a woman solo traveller. Her remarks on India, in particular, stood out.

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A post shared by Sarah Woodard | Solo Travel & Outdoors (@sarahwoodardtravels)

Woodard recalled her visit as a woman solo traveller to Agra, where she explored the Taj Mahal, citing excessive staring as a source of discomfort. A clip shows a young man looking at her, which she uses to illustrate the type of attention she received.

“India was a country I always said I’d go to on a group tour instead of solo, but I happened to be nearby, so I went,” Woodard explained.
“I hired a private driver who would drop me at destinations. When I was alone in the North, I always felt like someone was watching me, was uncomfortable having my phone out, and would even get called back to the car because the driver didn’t like how people were looking at me.”

🌍 Other Countries on Her List

In addition to India, Woodard listed Namibia, Turkey, the USA, and Tanzania as destinations where she felt unease while travelling alone. Each country was accompanied by clips and anecdotes, underscoring moments she deemed “unsettling or vulnerable.”

💬 Mixed Reactions on Social Media for the Safety of a Woman Solo Traveller

The video has divided viewers across platforms. Some users praised her honesty, stating that safety for women varies based on personal experiences and that caution is always necessary.

“woman solo traveller always carries risks, no matter where you go. Crime exists everywhere, just in different forms,” wrote one user.

However, others challenged her views, especially regarding India. Many argued that cultural differences, like staring, are often misunderstood by foreigners.

“In India, staring doesn’t always mean threat. It can be due to curiosity or admiration, especially in less touristy areas,” one comment read.
“The West often amplifies isolated incidents and paints entire countries as unsafe,” another added.

🎯 The Bigger Conversation: Is Anywhere Truly Safe?

Woodard’s video touches on a broader, ongoing conversation around women solo travellers’ safety in travel, highlighting that even Western countries, including the USA, made her list. This has fueled further discussions about how no destination is completely free of risk, and the importance of contextual understanding, cultural sensitivity, and personal boundaries.

✈️ India’s Reputation Among Travellers

While India remains a popular tourist destination, especially among solo backpackers, safety concerns, particularly for woman solo travellers, do not often surface. However, many experienced female travellers argue that with preparation, local awareness, and respectful conduct, India can be both rewarding and safe.