Solo Travelers @ Los Angeles

Dancing -- swing, salsa, country -- is wildly popular in Los Angeles. Many of the coolest clubs offer dance lessons for which you don't need a partner. You can meet people to dance with later when the bands start. Coffee shops have become quite a scene in recent years. For the price of a cappuccino you can sit -- often at communal tables -- and watch local singers, comics and poets do their thing. If you're more interested in the great outdoors, the Sierra Club conducts hikes on weekends and on moon-lit nights. You don't have to be a member and you'll mingle with friendly locals.

Young single visitors can connect with others at the Hollywood Hostel and Hostelling International Santa Monica just two blocks from the beach. Both have dormitory-style accommodations and regular rooms. The Santa Monica location runs trips to all major attractions.