Choosing where to travel alone for the first time involves more than finding affordable accommodation or spectacular scenery. For travel creator Alfie Watts, a destination should also suit the traveler’s experience—and two countries would not be his starting point.

Speaking to UNILAD, the Race Across the World winner singled out Colombia and Venezuela as places he would discourage inexperienced solo backpackers from choosing for their first adventure.

His concern centers on the judgment needed when navigating unfamiliar surroundings. Watts pointed to decisions such as hitchhiking or venturing into isolated streets as situations where travelers can expose themselves to unnecessary risks. In his view, developing confidence and awareness elsewhere first can help prepare people for more demanding journeys.

Watts became known through the BBC competition, which he won alongside his friend Owen Wood after traveling from Japan to Indonesia without flying and within a restricted budget. He now shares travel experiences and advice through his online content.

Alfie won BBC's Race Across The World (Alfie Watts)

Despite his reservations about beginners visiting Colombia and Venezuela alone, Watts remains enthusiastic about South America. He told UNILAD that it is his favorite region for backpacking, praising the variety of experiences available, from exploring the Amazon to spending time on the coast.

He also highlighted the usefulness of Spanish when traveling between countries. Although Spanish is widely spoken across South America, it is not universal: Portuguese is Brazil’s main language, and the continent is home to many other languages.

For Venezuela, Watts preferred organized trips led by reputable local guides. He believes this approach can help visitors experience a country he regards highly.

That recommendation needs to be considered alongside official guidance. At the time of checking, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advises against all travel to some parts of Venezuela and against all but essential travel to the remaining areas. Booking a guided tour does not remove those warnings or guarantee safety.

Colombia’s advisory is different: the FCDO advises against all but essential travel to specified regions, rather than the whole country. Watts’s recommendation for first-time solo travelers is therefore his personal assessment, separate from the government’s regional guidance.

Photo: unsplash.com

For anyone considering either destination, his comments offer one traveler’s perspective. Before booking, check your own government’s latest advice, research the specific route and confirm that your insurance covers the journey you intend to make.