A solo travel expert named Lydia Swinscoe, who has stayed in more than 70 Airbnbs around the world, offers tips for finding the perfect accommodation for solo travelers. With experience in both great and disappointing stays, Swinscoe notes that some properties were unclean, unsafe, or overpriced. She also points out that the popularity of Airbnb in tourist-heavy cities can affect local housing markets, often making it harder for residents to afford homes. Swinscoe suggests looking for specific details in listings that match personal preferences, such as wall art or unique design features, which can indicate that the host's style aligns with the traveler’s and that the location is near popular attractions. She prefers stays on the first floor or above for safety, as ground-floor homes can have more entry points. She also recommends traveling during off-peak seasons to avoid high prices and overcrowded tourist spots. For safety, Swinscoe advises checking for strong locks, including inner bolts, and looking for hosts with long-term experience on the platform, detailed reviews, and those who have been reviewed by other Airbnb hosts. She also recommends choosing hosts who provide guidebooks, which can offer useful local information and help travelers navigate unfamiliar areas. Swinscoe prefers Airbnbs with kitchens or kitchenettes, especially in areas where she might feel unsafe at night. She suggests looking for "superhosts" — hosts with many positive reviews — particularly those who have received praise from other solo travelers for making them feel safe. She also encourages travelers to ask about long-stay discounts, which are often available in cities that see fewer visitors. Among her favorite Airbnbs for solo travelers are a compact apartment in Tbilisi, a studio in Lodz, a cozy home in Bangkok, a peaceful sanctuary in Colombo, and a small apartment in Naples. These properties, according to Swinscoe, offer comfort, safety, and a sense of local charm, making them ideal for travelers seeking a unique and secure place to stay.