You go on holiday to catch a break from the stress and distractions of regular life.

So it’s no surprise that recent research from QUT has revealed solo tourism as an increasingly popular option for travellers seeking an unhindered break from reality.

To help you make the most of your well-deserved timeout from the real world, here’s a list of the ten best destinations for travelling alone according to 1Cover Travel Insurance.

So wave goodbye to your annoying family and friends and embrace your inner nomad in one of these beautiful countries, perfect for solitary discovery.

New Zealand

For first-time solo travellers, this scenic neighbour is a safe bet. New Zealand offers everything from snowboarding to surf, from wineries to white-water rafting and bungee jumping. And it’s just a few hours flight away!

With a population of just over four million and rated #4 on the Global Peace Index, it’s the perfect destination for a solo adventure.

Ireland

Who said travelling alone has to be lonely? Solo travellers will embrace the opportunity to have some craic with Ireland’s extremely friendly locals – ‘craic’ being a local term for fun, great banter and an all-round good time.

There’s no place you’re more likely to strike up a conversation on the street, at the bus stop or in your hotel lobby, particularly with a pint in hand.

Feeling particularly lonely and eager to meet a special someone abroad? Make a beeline for the Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival, the largest of its kind in Europe.

Iceland

Tucked away near the Artic Circle, Iceland is a tranquil waterfall-strewn wonderland, with a vibrant music and arts scene in the hip capital of Reykjavik.

Travellers driven by a quest for silence should head for the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoons and take in the majestic ice floes, or sink into the geothermal Blue Lagoon Spa to enjoy the view of snow-capped peaks in the distance.

Costa Rica

With the local saying ‘Pura Vida’ meaning ‘life is wonderful,’ Costa Rica is a must on the self-discovery itinerary. It gets extra points for being renowned as the safest country in Central America.

Travellers will never get bored, with a host of adventurous activities on offer, including white-water rafting or zip lining through the forest canopy.

The Netherlands

The Netherlands is known around the world for its liberal lifestyle and chilled out locals. Travellers can head to Amsterdam, rent a bike and explore the lively city’s impressive history, culture and architecture.

Its compact size makes Amsterdam an easy place to navigate on your own – even for the more geographically challenged.

Singapore

For those keen to check out Asia but wanting to ease themselves in, Singapore is a great place to start. Travelling in this bustling country solo means you can experience its exciting city at your own pace without worrying about slower friends dawdling behind.

With most people fluent in English, a low-crime rate and an enviable public transport system, travellers will be able to sample this hot spot with the familiarity of home.

Bali

One word: Zen.

Travellers can saunter their way through the local temples, take a yoga class, or relax on the beach as they lazily leaf their way through a book – with no-one to interrupt!

Bali offers a great backpacking culture for solo travellers, whether they’re looking for peace or a party scene. And, with Bali being the most popular international destination for Aussie travellers, visitors will never feel too far from home.

Finland

Home of the real Santa Claus.

For those needing some solo time to get in touch with their inner child without the jibes, what better place than under the aurora borealis?

Famously peaceful and quiet, Finland is arguably the perfect place to be alone with your thoughts while ice fishing, meditating or skiing across the beautiful Lapland. Don’t worry about not speaking Finnish either – the Finns are some of the best English speakers outside of England.

Japan

With one of the lowest crime rates in the world, visitors are sure to feel a sense of calm in Japan. It’s also one of the few countries in the world with hotels that cater to singles – a great way to keep costs down.

Once settled in, travellers can let their hair down with the locals, immersing themselves in the karaoke bars and sipping away at Sake. You’ll make so many friends you may need to revise your solo travel plan!