First solo international trip – looking for recommendations! [26M, US, ~$3K budget]

Hey everyone,

Planning my first solo international trip and would love some input. I’ve traveled to Greece and Cancun with family but never gone out on my own, so looking for somewhere that eases me into it.

What I’m looking for:

- Lush, green landscapes and good beaches

- Rich culture with things to explore

- Easy to get around (solo-friendly)

- Solid nightlife that’s safe and accessible

- Budget around $3K, flexible if the destination warrants it

If you’ve been somewhere that fits, I’d love to hear:

- How you got around

- What you did / highlights

- Any scams or safety tips for first-timers

- Whether you’d go back

Based in Texas, so open to anything. Shorter flights are a bonus but not a dealbreaker.

Thanks in advance!