Solo travel is no longer defined by relationship status (no more single’s cruises) or a need to find one’s self (ala Reese Witherspoon in the movie, Wild). People are increasingly choosing to leave their loved ones behind in order to do what they want, when they want, and get some ‘me time.’ Sound intriguing? Read on to see if solo travel is for you.
You Are Neither Too Old - or Too Young - To Travel Solo
Although most solo travelers fall into the 20 to 30-something age bracket, research shows that 40% of global Baby Boomers (ages 52-75) have taken a solo trip in the last year, while 20+% are planning to take one in the future. And today's older solo traveler is looking for experiences - like all travelers - that are memorable, rejuvenating, and authentic.
Will I Be Lonely?
A great way to begin a foray into solo travel is with a guided small group tour that caters to your interests. With a guided group vacation, there’s company if you want it, but also the opportunity to be separate without offending anyone. This mix of the social and the solitary gives you enough room to feel alone without really being alone. Moreover, you are likely to find yourself surrounded by like-minded travelers on small group tours. Particular travelers will be drawn to certain destinations or travel styles—active adventures, culinary vacations, or educational trips, for example, and find others in the group who share their interests.
In addition, every detail of the trip is taken care of. You don’t have to worry about getting from one place to another, choosing hotels, what part of a city to stay in, or even where to eat since you will have a guide (and fellow travelers) available to answer those questions if you need someone.
Luxury Accommodations
Forget the image of the 20-something backpacker making his way from hostel to hostel, today’s solo traveler is looking for great experiences without sacrificing the finer things. Luxury travel company, Abercrombie and Kent, for instance, encourages solo travelers on trips from African Safaris to Egyptian cruises to tours of Southeast Asia and includes all of the attention to detail that one would expect from A&K. Moreover, A&K ensures that solo guests enjoy private accommodations on every stop on the itinerary.
Similarly, active-adventure travel company, Backroads, offers 4-5 star accommodation options for many of its “Couples, Friends & Solos Tours.” So, you can spend the day hiking in the French Alps and spend the night at a 5-star chalet with a view of Chamonix-Mont Blanc.
Are There Added Costs to Traveling Solo?
Cost used to be a deterrent for many travelers as tour companies often added a single-supplement to most bookings, raising the cost of the trip by nearly 50% in some cases. Now, some companies are waiving that fee, or seriously discounting it to accommodate this jump in interest. Norwegian Cruise Lines and Lindbland Expeditions, for instance, are offering solo cabins for a third less than the price of regular rooms for certain sailings and A&K offers discounted supplements on certain itineraries.
Top Destinations for Solo Travelers
There are two main concerns for solo travelers: safety and whether the destination will make you feel welcome, that is, whether you can easily interact with locals and connect with the culture. Here is a list of great destinations to get you started:
Travel & Leisure's list of the Best Countries for Solo Travelers
For more information about solo travel contact your Houlahan Travel consultant at 847.868.4502