Solo female traveller advice pls

Question

Hello from a rainy London, England!

I would appreciate advice on my trip in Jan. Its the first time I'm visiting Sedona and have planned my trip around the full moon (13th Jan). Can a local person pls help me with advice on hiring a car (I have a full UK Licence) and where to stay in Sedona that's safe and has a nice pool. Do most places take cash (Dollars)?

Plus where I can go to be near a vortex during a full moon? Is it busy and what's the weather like normally and is it safe for a solo woman?

Thanks in advance.

Answer

Visiting Sedona in January can be a wonderful experience, especially around the full moon. The weather is generally cool, sometimes cold at night, with daytime highs around 50–60°F (10–16°C). Snow is rare in the valley but can appear on surrounding mountains, so bring layers. Sedona is generally safe for solo female travelers, though usual precautions like not hiking alone in remote areas at night are recommended.

Regarding car hire:

You can hire a car with a full UK licence, but it’s best to check with the rental company beforehand. Most major rental agencies (Hertz, Enterprise, Avis) in Phoenix or Flagstaff will accept UK licences.
Driving in Sedona is straightforward, but some scenic roads and trails are unpaved, so a vehicle with good clearance or an SUV can be helpful if you plan to explore beyond main roads.

Where to stay in Sedona:

Safe areas with pools: West Sedona and areas near Uptown Sedona are considered safe, with a range of hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals that have pools.
Recommended options: Boutique hotels or resorts such as L’Auberge de Sedona, Enchantment Resort, and Amara Resort are known for comfort, security, and beautiful settings. They all have pools and are close to dining and local attractions.

Payment options:

Most businesses and accommodations take credit/debit cards. Cash is accepted, but not always preferred—especially for hotels or restaurants in Sedona. US dollars are standard; it’s fine to carry small amounts for tips or local purchases.

Visiting vortex sites during a full moon:

Popular vortex locations include Bell Rock, Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, and Boynton Canyon. Full moon hikes can be magical, but trails can be busy, especially Bell Rock and Airport Mesa.
If you prefer less crowded experiences, consider hiking at sunrise or late evening. Some local guides offer full moon vortex tours, which can be a safe and social option for solo travelers.

Safety and tips for solo female travelers:

Stick to well-marked trails and avoid hiking alone in remote areas after dark.
Let someone know your plans if hiking or exploring trails.
Carry water, layered clothing, and a flashlight if planning full moon hikes.
Uptown Sedona and West Sedona are the safest areas for dining and evening walks.

Overall, Sedona in January is peaceful, beautiful, and manageable as a solo traveler. With a rented car, you’ll have flexibility to visit vortex sites, enjoy scenic drives, and explore the town safely. The combination of safe lodging with a pool, accessible vortex locations, and mild winter weather makes it an ideal trip for a first-time solo visit.

Solo female traveller advice pls

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