Scale Key
ABOUT
This scale key outlines the deeper meaning behind each rating. From accessibility to safety, walkability, nightlife & entertainment, affordability, food scene, transportation, connectivity, language ease, and solo traveler friendliness, I rate each destination. View the places I’ve traveled through the “Destinations” tab to view each country’s rating.
Rating KEY
-
1 – Not Accessible
Significant barriers exist.Frequent stairs, uneven terrain, or steep paths
No ramps or elevators
Not suitable for travelers with mobility limitations or assistive devices
2 – Limited Accessibility
Some accommodations, but major challenges remain.Partial ramps or assistance required
Uneven sidewalks, cobblestones, or steps common
Best for travelers with mild mobility concerns and flexibility
3 – Moderately Accessible
Accessible with planning and assistance.Mix of accessible and non-accessible areas
Ramps or elevators available in some places
Suitable for travelers who can manage short distances or occasional steps
4 – Highly Accessible
Well-suited for most travelers with mobility needs.Paved walkways and step-free access in most areas
Elevators and accessible restrooms widely available
Public transport and accommodations often accessible
5 – Fully Accessible
Designed with accessibility in mind.Step-free access throughout
Reliable elevators, ramps, and accessible facilities
Ideal for wheelchair users and travelers requiring consistent accessibility
-
1 – Low Safety
Frequent safety concerns.Higher risk of crime or scams
Limited lighting or security
Extra caution required, especially at night
2 – Below Average Safety
Some concerns present.Petty crime common
Not ideal for solo or nighttime travel
Awareness and planning needed
3 – Moderate Safety
Generally safe with basic precautions.Tourist areas are safe
Normal awareness advised
Suitable for most travelers
4 – High Safety
Safe and comfortable for most visitors.Low crime in tourist areas
Well-lit streets and visible security
Comfortable for solo travelers
5 – Very High Safety
Exceptionally safe.Very low crime
Safe day and night
Ideal for solo, family, and first-time travelers
-
1 – Not Walkable
No sidewalks or unsafe pedestrian areas
Long distances between attractions
Car required
2 – Limited Walkability
Inconsistent sidewalks
Hills, uneven terrain, or traffic challenges
Short walks only
3 – Moderately Walkable
Walkable in certain areas
Some uneven terrain or distance
Mix of walking and transportation needed
4 – Highly Walkable
Good sidewalks and crossings
Attractions close together
Walking is a primary way to get around
5 – Extremely Walkable
Designed for pedestrians
Flat, safe, and well-maintained paths
Walking is the easiest option
-
1 – Very Expensive
High costs for food, lodging, and activities
Luxury pricing throughout
2 – Expensive
Costs add up quickly
Limited budget options
3 – Moderate
Mix of budget, mid-range, and luxury options
Accessible for most travelers
4 – Affordable
Good value for food and activities
Budget-friendly options widely available
5 – Very Affordable
Low daily costs
Excellent value across all categories
-
1 – Minimal
Quiet evenings
Few bars or entertainment options
2 – Limited
Some bars or lounges
Early closing times
3 – Moderate
Decent mix of nightlife options
Active on weekends
4 – Vibrant
Variety of bars, clubs, and live music
Lively most nights
5 – World-Class
Major nightlife destination
Late nights, famous venues, constant energy
-
1 – Limited
Few dining options
Minimal variety
2 – Basic
Some local and international options
Limited diversity
3 – Good
Solid food scene
Mix of local favorites and popular cuisines
4 – Excellent
Wide variety of cuisines
High quality and memorable dining
5 – Exceptional
Destination-worthy food scene
Renowned restaurants and local specialties
-
1 – Difficult
Limited public transport
Taxis or rentals hard to access
2 – Somewhat Difficult
Transportation available but inconvenient
Planning required
3 – Manageable
Reliable options available
May require apps or transfers
4 – Easy
Ride-shares, taxis, or transit readily available
Simple navigation
5 – Extremely Easy
Seamless transportation
Excellent public transit and accessibility
-
1 – Poor
Unreliable internet and cell service
Not suitable for remote work
2 – Inconsistent
Wi-Fi available but unstable
Limited coverage
3 – Adequate
Reliable in hotels and cafés
Suitable for basic work and communication
4 – Strong
Fast, dependable Wi-Fi widely available
Good mobile coverage
5 – Excellent
High-speed internet everywhere
Ideal for digital nomads and remote workers
-
1 – Very Challenging
Little to no English spoken
Language barrier impacts daily travel
2 – Challenging
English spoken in limited tourist areas
Translation tools helpful
3 – Manageable
English commonly spoken in tourist zones
Basic phrases sufficient
4 – Easy
English widely spoken
Communication rarely an issue
5 – Very Easy
English fluently spoken throughout
No language barriers
-
1 – Not Solo-Friendly
Safety or logistics challenges
Limited group activities
2 – Somewhat Solo-Friendly
Possible with planning
Better suited to experienced travelers
3 – Solo-Friendly
Tours and social opportunities available
Generally safe and manageable
4 – Very Solo-Friendly
Easy to meet others
Inclusive, welcoming, and social
5 – Ideal for Solo Travel
Extremely welcoming
Excellent infrastructure and social scene
Mixed attitudes
Discretion advised