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On nearly all of our trips, you can choose to be matched with a same sex traveler and only pay the twin share price.

If you prefer your own space, we offer single room supplements across our worldwide trips.

Top Solo Travel Tours

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Capitals of Scandinavia

5 Locations

4 Countries

10 Day Scandinavian Tour of Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland

Save up to $750

Scenic Scandinavia and its Fjords

14 Locations

3 Countries

14 Day Scandinavian Tour of Denmark, Norway and Sweden

Save up to $375

Highlights of Turkey

15 Locations

10 Day Turkey Tour of Istanbul, Pamukkale and Cappadocia

Internal flights included

Save up to $400

Best of Portugal

16 Locations

11 Day Portugal Tour to Lisbon, Algarve and Porto

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Solo travel inspiration

Take on the world with our solo travel adventures

Some of life's greatest lessons are learned through travel, so what are you waiting for? From meeting new friends to having eye-opening experiences every day, our solo trips will enrich you in ways you could never imagine.

Be inspired

Embark on your own personal journey with our solo travel tours. Wherever you go, you’ll travel with new friends by your side, and our Travel Directors will always ensure your comfort and look out for you every step of the way. From the wonders of Italy and Spain , to the treasures of Switzerland and Scandinavia , your solo trip may be the best thing you ever do for yourself.

Connect with locals

We take you to the best solo travel destinations, where you’ll be met with the warmest of welcomes. Learn how to cook like an Italian nonna in the Tuscan hills , enjoy an evening of storytelling on a goat farm in Norway , meet the liberated women of Demircidere in Turkey , or the talented single female artisans of Iraq Al Amir in Jordan . Wherever you choose to travel to, you’ll join local families to share traditional meals and hear their stories.

Solo traveler options

Choose a solo room share or upgrade to a solo room for more space. Access discounted single supplements on select departures of our award-winning handcrafted itineraries. Experience the best of every destination, and enjoy the freedom of solo travel.

All you need to know about Solo Travel

Where can i go on vacation alone.

You can travel solo all over the world. Each year, millions of people travel alone, enjoying the independence of forging their own travel path or using it as an opportunity to connect with other travelers. If you want to travel solo, we recommend our specially-crafted tours, so you can meet like-minded solo travelers from all over the world.

Where is the best place to travel alone?

We love traveling solo in places like Europe, Canada, Australia, Singapore and Japan, but there are dozens of great places to travel solo around the world. If you want to make new friends and experience new things, you'll love our handcrafted group tours, where you’ll see and experience the best of each destination, while learning new skills like cooking with local chefs and enjoying dinner and storytelling with local families.

Why is solo travel important?

Traveling alone is one of the most enriching experiences you can have. It’s empowering and liberating and will challenge your limits. It helps you get out of your comfort zone, gain confidence, and see the world in a unique way. Solo travel also gives you the opportunity to learn about new cultures, gain new skills, and meet like-minded people who might just become lifelong friends.

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The 15 best places to travel alone

There’s nothing like gallivanting around the globe on your own. These are the best solo travel destinations in the world

Nothing sounds quite as liberating as upping sticks and going to see the world, at whatever pace, and for however long you want. The freedom of only being tied to your own schedule is the beauty of travelling solo, and it seems like lots of us are catching on. 

Travelling the world alone has only grown in popularity since we came out of pandemic restrictions, with many of us adopting the ‘life’s too short’ mindset, and working up the courage to just book that damn flight. And why shouldn’t we? There’s such an abundance of places to travel solo, some so glorious that you won’t even notice you don’t have company. 

Of course, there are some things to consider if you’re jetting off solo. Safety, especially for women travellers , is an important element to factor into your planning, among plenty of other aspects that need weighing up. We’ve done our research: here is our list of the best solo travel destinations in the world. 

RECOMMENDED:  🧗‍♀️ The best destinations for solo female travel ☀️ The prettiest islands in the world 🌆 The  best cities in the world  🖼️ The most beautiful places in the world

An email you’ll actually love

The best places to travel alone

1.  Iceland

The aptly-named ‘land of fire and ice’ is a magnet for nature fanatics, and perfect for those travelling solo. An abundance of caves, caverns, black-sand beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes and geysers should be plenty to keep you occupied, as the landscape and scope of this Nordic island is second to none. The country’s charming capital, Reykjavik , is jam-packed with activity – why not add the Blue Lagoon or the Laugarvatn Fontana to your to-do list for some solo relaxation? And the best thing about Iceland for solo travellers is the safety. The country is named time and time again named  one of the safest places for travellers , thanks to low crime rates and a generally accepting society. It’s definitely one for the bucket list.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Iceland

2.  East Coast Australia

It goes without saying that Australia is absolutely massive. Mahoosive. Ginormous. And while that fact might make it seem daunting, particularly for those of us travelling solo, most of the action is concentrated on the East Coast. There are plenty of classic routes that run from Adelaide to Brisbane and beyond, allowing intrepid explorers to visit a variety of exciting towns that each seem to have their own magnificent ocean view. Australians are famously sociable, too, so meeting new people will never be an issue in this isolated corner of our beautiful planet.

📍 Discover the best places to visit in Australia

3.  Botswana

For those keen to explore the wonders of Africa, Botswana is likely your best bet. The country has a wealth of wildlife to appreciate and observe, with nearly 40 percent of its land area being devoted to national parks. The Okavango Delta, Kalahari Desert and Chobe National Park are world-renowned safari spots, home to everything from giraffes to rhinos. Botswana is also a politically and economically steady nation, and ranks highly on safety indexes for African countries. This, plus the fact that many Botswanans speak excellent English, makes it a great destination to navigate on your solo travels.

4.  Canada

Canada ’s name is one thrown around most often when it comes to solo travel. The population has a worldwide reputation for their friendliness, and the country has everything you could want from a travel destination. Incredible off-the-grid adventure opportunities like visiting the Rockies, Niagara Falls and Banff National Park offer up plenty to see for intrepid globetrotters. However, Toronto is considered one of the world’s most multicultural cities, and Vancouver is famed for its unique urban design, stunning surroundings and the fact it's on the doorstep to some incredible nature. The weather? Not so great, but the people? Incredible.

5.  Vietnam

Vietnam ’s unique beauty and complicated history make it a compelling travel destination, particularly for those doing so alone. The country has grown into a popular travelling hotspot, and that’s led to a thriving social scene – the well-established tourist route means it should be really easy to meet like-minded travellers to journey alongside. Ha Long Bay, Hanoi and the Ha Giang Loop are three of the nation’s tourist highlights. There are also great transport networks, it’s budget-friendly and full of hostels. What more could you ask for when you’re travelling alone?

📍 Discover the  best things to do in Vietnam

6.  Portugal

Portugal’s most popular spots frequently pick up travel awards and plaudits alike, and the hype is not without good reason. Lisbon is a backpacker’s dream, while the dreamlike beauty of Porto attracts wide-eyed adventurers from all over the world.  The Algarve is much more than its budget holiday destination suggests, and the rest of the country is packed with stunning sights and spots. This European treasure boasts 800km of coastline, and it’s a particularly surfer-friendly paradise, thanks to the fact it’s perched on the edge of the Atlantic.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Portugal

7.  Chile

In South America, Chile leads the way in terms of quality of life, and unsurprisingly, lowest crime rate. It’s the perfect destination for people travelling alone thanks to its tight-knit community of backpackers, and, of course, abundance of sights to see. Atacama, the driest desert in the world, is located in the north, while there’s plenty to see in Santiago, the nation’s capital. You won’t go thirsty either, thanks to the fantastic Chilean repertoire of beer and wine. It’s also considered one of the best places in the world for stargazing, thanks to its high altitude.

8.  Slovenia

Small but perfectly formed, Slovenia is a tremendous destination for solo travellers. The old ‘four seasons in a day’ adage is very much alive and well in a place where you can spend the morning skiing in the Alps before heading for a romantic solo sunset on the Adriatic at Piran. The capital, Ljubljana, is the perfect base for exploration, a city of friendly people and social spots an easy bus or train from Slovenia’s famous lakes and less-famous postcard villages. Pro tip: pick up a €15 IZLETka train ticket and get unlimited travel on the weekends.

📍 Discover four Slovenian getaways that are good for the planet

9.  New Zealand

New Zealand is a country that just gets things right. For one, it takes its reputation as one of the safest countries in the world very seriously, meaning travellers can explore in total security. But it isn’t usually safety that brings individual adventurers to New Zealand ; instead, it’s the dazzling landscapes, buzzing towns and cities and convivial people that make NZ the place it is. All of the bigger towns are backpacker paradises filled with history, culture and booze (the great trifecta of backpacking), and the scenery in between is staggering.

📍 Discover the best things to do in New Zealand

10.  Ireland

Irish storytelling is world-famous, immortalised in the novels of Joyce, Stoker, Wilde and the rest. Spend an evening in any Dublin pub and you will almost certainly hear a tale for the ages, as locals spin yarns and transport listeners to a world within a world, one pint at a time. The friendly hospitality of the Irish guarantees good conversation, while the stunning breadth of nature here allows for tranquil walks and plenty of room to think, ideal for solo travel. Getting around also couldn’t be easier, as it looks like Irish railway services are about to be amped up .

📍 Discover the best things to do in Ireland

11.  Japan

It can often feel as though Japan has been organised with solo travellers in mind. The efficiency of its transport links is as legendary as such things can be, allowing vagabonds all the time in the world to hit up the gripping cities and out-of-this-world scenery. (Check out our Japan rail itinerary if you’re planning to see the place by train.) The Japanese are among the friendliest in the world, the food is incredible and the whole experience is exactly that: an experience. It’s also another country that is consistently ranked the safest destination in the world for solo travellers .

📍 Discover the best things to do in Japan

12.  Greek Islands

No matter your preferred form of travel, a spot of island-hopping in Greece is almost a rite of passage for any traveller. That’s why you’ll meet everyone from excitable backpackers to considered veterans of the road here, each with a different story to tell. The Greek Islands are gorgeous and lush, not to mention packed with excellent food. Each one seems ready to capture your heart and convince you to stay forever and ever. Kefalonia and Corfu are the most popular and thus offer endless social opportunities, while the serenity of Naxos and Icaria will appeal to more introverted explorers.

📍 Discover the best Greek islands

13.  Bhutan

What could be safer than a culture so infused with Buddhism? Bhutan is definitely a place to include on your list should safety be one of your top priorities. The Trans Bhutan Trail reopened in 2022 , meaning travellers can follow in the footsteps of pilgrims and monks who trod the 400km route. The architecture is awe-inspiring, and the tiny country is of course perched on the very edge of the Himalayas, meaning the views are truly unmatched. There’s also tranquil lakes, luscious green valleys and dazzling glaciers to admire. Take heed: you will need some extra cash to splash in Bhutan, as the country has a pretty steep tourist tax .

14.  Croatia

Another super-safe solo-friendly destination is this jewel of the Adriatic. Boundless glorious beaches, fascinating mediaeval towns and relatively low prices are what Croatia has become so popular for. The nightlife is another perk of this place – the festival calendar is absolutely jam-packed, and Croatian cities are known for their cheap drinks and plethora of party spots. Eight national parks are also dotted around the country. Like waterfalls? There’s a whopping 90 of them at Plitvice Lakes,  though if you want a dip, head to the smaller falls at Krka National Park instead. Croatia is also an underrated wine producer and, of course, a hotspot for  Game of Thrones  fans.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Croatia

15.  Singapore

The phrase ‘melting pot’ is ridiculously overused, but one place that’s truly worthy of the label is Singapore . The island nation is a glorious meeting of different cuisines and cultures, with a landscape characterised by ancient temples and towering glass skyscrapers. Singapore is also incredibly safe, according to 96 percent of locals who we surveyed last year for our annual list of the world’s best cities . There are plenty of hostels if you’re wanting to meet other travellers. Spend your time soaking up the year-round tropical climate, and make sure to go on a food tour through Singapore’s  markets . 

📍 Discover the best things to do in Singapore

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10 top spots for solo travelers in winter (or any other time of year)

Dec 10, 2021 • 10 min read

Trekking to Machu Picchu is just one of many South American adventures that's perfect for solo travelers © Getty Images / iStockphoto / Andres Jacobi

The idea of traveling alone can be daunting if you've never taken a solo trip before. Checking in for your outbound flight is easy – it's only when you arrive alone in an unfamiliar destination that it all becomes real. But any initial doubts are fleeting. By the time you've checked into your hotel and hit the streets looking for your first meal, nerves will already be giving way to the thrill of being somewhere new.

A major factor in mastering the art of solo travel is selecting the right destination. Whether you're embarking on an epic multicountry trip or taking an impulsive city break, some places are more suitable for a solo travel experience than others. There are destinations that are naturally suited to solitude, and destinations where travelers are naturally thrown together, making it easy to meet new people.

Best of all, there are solo travel destinations in every corner of the globe, so you can take a solo trip in the depths of winter as easily as you can at the height of summer. Here are 10 sure-fire destinations for lone travelers, organized by interest. Whether you’re into raves, relaxation, hiking or sightseeing, these spots are certain to get your solo travel adventure off on the right foot.

South America: best for solo adventures

With mountains to climb, rivers to raft, ancient ruins to uncover and jungles to explore, South America is the ultimate adventure destination. And the northern hemisphere's winter is South America's summer – the prime time to visit Patagonia and the Andes. From well-trodden paths in Argentina , Chile and Brazil to virgin jungle trails in Ecuador and Colombia , the continent has something for every kind of adventurer. You'll certainly never struggle for company on the trek to Machu Picchu !

Don’t let the continent's size daunt you – with easy border crossings and well-established traveler hubs, South America is ideal for solo overlanding. The well-worn Gringo Trail, which takes in the continent’s most popular destinations, ensures recurring rendezvous with fellow adventurers and ample opportunities to buddy up with travelers heading in the same direction. This, paired with the general warmth of local people and the continent’s premium hostel network, makes solo travel simple.

Epic solo travel experience : Mountain biking down Bolivia ’s infamous Death Road (the name is an exaggeration, in case you were worried) and debriefing with your fellow riders over a few beers afterward.

Ubud, Indonesia: best for self-reflection

Whether you loved or loathed Elizabeth Gilbert’s seminal solo travel memoir Eat, Pray, Love , there’s no denying that Bali has a special magic. The island's artistic and spiritual center, Ubud , is where the author found love (and presumably ate and prayed) and it remains a wonderfully laid-back place for solo travelers to relax, reflect and recharge. And Bali is a year-round destination – summer is peak season, but the island has a quieter and calmer charm in winter.

Nestled among emerald rice fields ringed by mist-wrapped mountains, Ubud attracts throngs of solo travelers, meaning no probing glances if you arrive alone at a morning yoga class or ask for a table for one in one of the town’s salubrious vegetarian cafes. To really harness the healing power of Ubud (and for some serious solitude), check yourself into one of the many health retreats that dot the verdant hills around town.

Epic solo travel experience : Getting up super early before the heat climbs to join a holistic class – you find lessons in everything from yoga and meditation, and you can follow up with a massage at a tried and tested spa such as Taksu Spa .

Berlin, Germany: best for nightlife

Some say you are more likely to get into Berghain , the most famous nightclub in Berlin , if you arrive alone. Whether or not that’s the case, the rumor demonstrates the German capital’s natural affinity for solo travelers. Legions of solo citybreakers are drawn by Berlin's deserved reputation as one of the friendliest, most inclusive cities in Europe, and by its famous nightlife.

Berlin is one of the best places in Europe to party, offering a collection of colossal clubs and graffiti-spattered beer gardens, but going clubbing is just one of many things to do in Berlin. Thought-provoking history surrounds you from the moment you arrive, from the Brandenburg Gate to the Holocaust Memorial , while quirky cafes, cool boutiques, weekend flea markets and a growing food-truck scene provide more leisurely delights. Berlin is an easy place to wander alone, or join a walking tour for some company.

Epic solo travel experience : Heading out to a bar or nightclub and seeing where the night takes you. For some guided imbibing, join a beer tour with Brewer's Berlin Tours or Berlin Craft Beer Experience .

East Africa: best for a group tour

Have you always dreamed of viewing gorillas in the jungles of Rwanda , meeting a Maasai chief in Kenya  or spotting the “Big Five” in Tanzania , but were daunted by the logistics of tackling East Africa independently? A group tour can simplify the experience of visiting this stunning region of the world, and provide a buffer for the sometimes challenging experiences Africa can throw at first-timers.

East Africa’s tourism infrastructure is well developed and traveling solo in most countries here is quite achievable (particularly in Kenya and Tanzania), but joining a group tour means you can bundle together a string of big game-viewing safaris in multiple countries, without getting hit by additional lone traveler charges or facing the daunting prospect of arranging multiple tours and transport.

Best of all, tours in these bucket-list destinations attract a diverse group of travelers, meaning you’re much less likely to be the only solo traveler sandwiched between canoodling couples, or the only 20-something in a coach full of empty-nesters.

Epic solo travel experience : Catching the great migration from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya – an almost Lion King -esque parade of wildebeest, zebras, gazelles and predators.

Singapore: best for a solo stopover

With all manner of cultural attractions to explore, a growing collection of hostels and guesthouses, loads of free things to do , and one of the world’s best public transport systems (including excellent airport links), there are few more stress-free solo travel experiences than landing at Singapore 's award-winning Changi airport on a tropical afternoon.

Whether you choose to amble with an audio guide through the Chinatown Heritage Centre , gawp at the otherworldly Gardens by the Bay , plunge into a lavish rooftop pool, or join the hordes feasting in Singapore's hawker food courts , the city is perfectly suited to solo travel. An added bonus is the city's cosmopolitan attitude – locals don't bat an eyelid at the daily influx of international arrivals, and there are few hassles and scams to worry about.

Epic solo travel experience : Checking out the cozy cafes and quirky boutiques in the gentrified 1930s housing estate of Tiong Bahru .

Rome, Italy: best for culture

From ancient icons such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum to the towering masterpiece of Renaissance architecture that is St Peter’s Basilica , Rome ’s cityscape is a kaleidoscopic canvas of artistic flair, architectural wonderment and historical marvels. Whether you’re visiting for two days or two months, there's so much to see that there's little risk of becoming bored.

Though English is not as widely spoken as in some European nations, it’s hard to feel lonely among the 14 million other tourists who visit this cultural hub each year. And solo dining means you only have to worry about keeping one palate happy in Rome's fabulous restaurants . But don’t pack too much into your itinerary, as Rome rewards relaxation; mingling with strangers over a glass of vino at sunset is an essential pastime in The Eternal City.

Epic solo travel experience : Visiting St Peter’s Basilica and walking the 7km (4.3 miles) of artwork-filled halls that comprise the Vatican Museums .

Portland, Oregon: best city break

One of the USA 's hippest hubs, Portland has all the cultural advantages of a major metropolis, but the down-home intimacy of a small town. This affable attitude reverberates in the town’s urban wineries, microbreweries and coffee shops, where conversation flows quicker than the drinks can be poured. And with its patchwork of small, friendly neighborhoods , it's easy to discover this easy-going city one district at a time.

There’s more to this bastion of counterculture than its love of a good chinwag, with a host of whimsical attractions highlighting its quirky streak, from a museum dedicated to vacuum cleaners to an urban herd of goats. It’s also a cinch to navigate, with good public transport and a popular bike-share scheme. And while Portland is famous for its artisan restaurants, a more sociable – and undeniably more fun – way to dine is at the city’s 500-or-so street food carts.

Epic solo travel experience : Exploring the Alberta Arts District; for the company of fellow art enthusiasts, time your visit to coincide with the Last Thursday art walk .

Chiang Mai, Thailand: best for food

It's a close-run thing, but for solo foodie travel, one destination stands above all others for travelers who view the world through the prism of a knife and fork. The capital of northern Thailand – and once the center of an independent kingdom – Chiang Mai offers the entire Thai package in one compact location: stellar food, rich culture, ancient ruins, responsible elephant encounters , relaxed nightlife and an easy-going traveler scene that's easy to plug into.

Every time of day is snack time in Chiang Mai. From the city's impressive northern Thai restaurants to its fun-filled and frenetic night markets and hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving the city's famous kow soi soup, the city always has a fork or spoon in hand. What makes Chiang Mai especially suited to solo travelers is its collection of cooking schools – ideal places to meet new people and learn how to cook up a perfect bowl of phat thai , green curry or hot and sour tom yam soup.

Epic solo travel experience : Learning to cook Thai food, of course! Most courses start with a market trip so you can learn to identify local ingredients before you start pounding herbs and spices to make your own curry paste ( Small House Chiang Mai is one recommended school).

Caye Caulker, Belize: best for an island escape

Enchanting atolls aren’t reserved for honeymooners. Pastel-hued, car-free Caye Caulker has always been a great place for solo travelers thanks to its compact size and easy-going, backpacker-friendly vibe, which draws a relaxed, international crowd in search of a less commercialized slice of paradise.

It’s easy to lose days lounging at The Split , the island’s premier beach, but there are plenty of other activities on offer, from snorkeling and diving on teeming reefs to kayaking to lesser-visited parts of the island while keeping a beady eye out for crocodiles. 

Join other travelers at local reggae bars during the afternoon happy hour before sampling Creole-style street food come nightfall. What's arguably the greatest blessing of solo travel? You don’t have to share your shrimp and swordfish dinner!

Epic solo travel experience : Snorkeling or diving in the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve , which teems with turtles and small sharks.

East Coast Australia: best for road-tripping

It would actually be hard to explore the East Coast of Australia alone. So many travelers follow the snaking stretch of road that runs from Sydney to Cairns that solitude is often harder to find than companionship. For travelers in search of natural wonders, excellent infrastructure, abundant tours and group activities and raucous late-night revelry, there are few places to match it.

But it’s not just the good-time vibe that makes this stretch of coastline so spectacular. The classic road trip route is studded with bucket-list attractions, from lolling on Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach to rambling through the ancient Daintree Rainforest or blowing bubbles on the Great Barrier Reef . Consider renting a car to explore – the most memorable moments will likely come from interactions with locals in coastal surf towns and one-pub villages in the Outback an hour or two inland from the coast.

Epic solo travel experience : Joining a tour with the East Coast's Indigenous people. Tours led by guides from Aboriginal communities will show you a less-seen side to this well-explored land.

You might also like: Female solo travel: what it's like to travel solo at every age How Black LGBTIQ+ travellers navigate a challenging world What it's like traveling with kids as a single parent

This article was first published Nov 30, 2017 and updated Dec 10, 2021.

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Best All-Inclusive Resorts for Solo Travelers

Have the ultimate fun at Barceló Bávaro Beach in the Dominican Republic

Ligaya Malones is an editor, blogger, and freelance writer specializing in food and travel. Ligaya's work has appeared in publications including Lonely Planet and BRIDES.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

When traveling and exploring solo, checking into an all-inclusive resort can offer a stress-free way to unwind or partake in activities without keeping a mental tab on costs. Room rates will often include meals, activities, and even a spa treatment or two at some of the most interesting all-inclusive resorts. Check out our selections below, from an adults-only retreat or clothing-optional resort in the Caribbean to our picks for the best warm- and cold-weather resorts to book in 2023. We factored in value, dining options, and guest reviews while putting together this roundup.

Best All-Inclusive Resorts for Solo Travelers in 2024

• Best Overall: Barceló Bávaro Beach, Dominican Republic
• Best Adults-Only: BodyHoliday, St. Lucia
• Best Retreat: Lake Austin Spa Resort, Austin, Texas
• Best Clothing Optional: Hedonism II, Negril, Jamaica
• Best for a Warm Getaway: Spice Island Beach Resort, Grenada
• Best for a Winter Getaway: Glacier View Lodge, Canada
• Best Mediterranean: Club Med Kemer - Turkey
• Our Top Picks
• Barceló Bávaro Beach, Dominican Republic
• BodyHoliday, St. Lucia
• Lake Austin Spa Resort, Austin, Texas
• Hedonism II, Negril, Jamaica
• Spice Island Beach Resort, Grenada

Glacier View Lodge, Canada

• Club Med Kemer - Turkey
• See More (4)

Final Verdict

Compare the best all-inclusive resorts for singles, methodology, best overall : barceló bávaro beach , dominican republic.

Barceló Bávaro Beach

Dozens of activities, multiple pools and dining outlets, and a dedicated singles week offer lots to do for the solo traveler.

Multiple dining outlets and bars, adults-only pool, premium lounge

Array of different activities

Adults-only section offers extra relaxation

Beautiful grounds

Not ideal for a boutique experience

Guests in 2022 have mentioned rooms could use an update

Rapid service can be inconsistent at times

Barceló Bávaro Beach in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic is a 500-plus-room, adults-only all-inclusive resort located steps from the breathtaking beach for which it is named. Guests particularly enjoy the ample sun beds, relaxing atmosphere, and access to the casino and nightclub located at its sister property within the same complex, Barcelo Palace.

Although the resort attracts honeymooners and couples, its annual Singles Week—typically held each fall—is a full week dedicated to solo travelers looking to socialize , and it’s packed full of group activities like watersports and volleyball, live DJ-ed pool and beach parties, excursions, and more. Year round, find quiet spots for sunbathing or reading a book on the beach or in the resort’s landscaped tropical gardens. Mingle with others at the swimming pool or at included activities ranging from yoga classes to kayaking. 

Between Bavaro Beach and Palace, the two resorts boast nine bars, restaurants, pools, an 18-hole golf course, and tennis courts. Booking a Premium Level reservation includes an upgraded room, exclusive lounge access, a bottle of rum, access to the spa’s hydrotherapy area, and 10 percent off spa services.

Best Adults-Only : BodyHoliday , St. Lucia

BodyHoliday Saint Lucia

Experience adults-only, wellness-focused downtime or active adventures in pristine tropical surroundings.

Wellness center, beauty clinic, adventure program, piano bar

All-inclusive rate includes a daily wellness treatment

Resort hosts annual solo traveler retreat

Expert activity instructors

Resort’s hilly locale may be inconvenient for some

Daily wellness treatments included in rate are limited to massage, body wrap, or a facial

As one of the Caribbean’s best all-inclusive spa resorts, set your own immersive, nourishing pace at beachfront BodyHoliday Saint Lucia. Bookings include a complimentary daily massage, facial, or body wrap, as well as access to personal fitness trainers, nutritionists, and other wellness practitioners. Activities like golf, snorkeling and scuba diving, tai chi, and Pilates classes are also included. So are half- or full-day walks, which take in sights like Sulphur Springs (touted as the Caribbean’s only drive-in volcano), Diamond Falls, and The Pitons—a UNESCO World Heritage site.

For those looking to connect with others, the resort hosts an annual September Solos retreat. In addition to a personalized schedule of daily spa treatments, the week includes group activities that range from cocktail and dinner parties to land and water sports. Standard Garden View rooms do not incur a single supplement , and ground floor rooms in this category open into a patio in the gardens.

Best Retreat : Lake Austin Spa Resort , Austin , Texas

Lake Austin Spa Resort

Unwind lakefront or at the spa in an intimate setting.

25,000-square-foot spa facility, water taxi service, daily land and water sports activities

Lakeside activities in secluded surroundings

Discounts for longer stays

40 rooms offer an intimate, personal experience

Resort asks guests silence cell phones in public spaces on property

Resort dining ends at 9 p.m.

Changes or cancellations to a reservation may forfeit $1,000 deposit

An all-inclusive overnight experience at Lake Austin Spa Resort in Texas’ Hill Country includes everything from happy hour wine cruises on the lake, artist talks, and culinary demonstrations, to watercraft like stand-up paddleboards and hydro-bikes. Consult its activities calendar on the website to learn about more than a dozen daily activities throughout the week.

Also covered are three meals a day, unlimited smoothies, juices, and coffee, for starters; access to two outdoor pools and a heated indoor pool; and a 25,000-square-foot spa facility.

Situated across 19 secluded lakefront acres, arrive at the resort (by water taxi, if desired) primed to do everything or nothing at all. Depending on your selected room category, its 40 rooms might include a private garden or a private outdoor hot tub. The resort is also pet-friendly.

The wellness resort has been around since the 1940s, and in its prior lives, it was a camp geared towards fishing, then nudism, and finally the rodeo before transforming into the wellness resort today.

Best Clothing Optional : Hedonism II , Negril , Jamaica

 Hedonism II

Shed inhibitions at one of the Caribbean’s top clothing-optional resorts.

Multiple dining and drinking options, playroom, nightly entertainment

Lively pool and beach areas

Themed parties

Land and water activities included

Only certain room categories feature a balcony

Not ideal for those looking for a retreat

Resort could use a refresh

Uninhibited solo travelers will feel at home at Hedonism II in Negril, Jamaica, located along Negril’s famous Seven Mile Beach. The all-inclusive, beachfront resort offers ocean view or garden view rooms and suites and is clothing optional in most areas (restaurants excluded). The resort’s all-inclusive rates cover daytime activities that range from volleyball to tennis, sailing, and scuba diving.

Beginning at 10:30 p.m., the Romping Shop playroom opens for overnight guests. There’s also the Kama Sutra Palace (for desire-centric workshops like Tantra), a spa, and dining and drinking outlets including a steak house, an Italian restaurant with a Jamaican twist, and buffet-style breakfast, lunch, and dinner dining. 

Airport transfer service can be arranged for an additional fee, and all gratuities are included in the daily rate. 

Best for a Warm Getaway : Spice Island Beach Resort , Grenada

Spice Island Beach Resort

Upscale villa-style accommodations and top-notch service are enjoyed in one of the Caribbean’s most fragrant islands.

Spa, private pool in select rooms

Staff go above and beyond

Some room categories open up directly to the beach

Currently the island nation’s only AAA Five Diamond award recipient

Some rooms and patios situated too close together for privacy

Located on one of the busier parts of the beach

Guests of this 8-acre all-inclusive resort appreciate the attentive staff (who make a point to learn your name), fresh meals accented with herbs from the property’s gardens, and the boutique resort’s understated luxury. Its beachfront location along Grand Anse beach, which stretches for nearly 2 miles of calm, clear waters, certainly helps, too. A booking at Spice Island Resort includes all-day dining, access to its bars (and in-room mini bar), a fitness center, and use of its non-motorized water sports equipment. Spa treatments are also available.

Spice Island Resort in St. George’s, Grenada, features 64 villa-style suites; some open up directly onto the beach, feature a private pool, or include a patio or balcony. Suites also include Molton Brown bath amenities, exposed wood-paneled ceilings in some, and a color palette that mimics Grenada’s colorful natural surroundings. 

Also known as a Spice Isle, a tour of a local spice plantation or factory—think nutmeg, cacao, cinnamon—offers a snapshot of the island’s history and culture if you venture out from the resort’s comforts.

Best for a Winter Getaway : Glacier View Lodge , Canada

Cold weather enthusiasts will enjoy a singular opportunity to check into one of the only glacier-front resorts.

Welcome reception, guided glacier tours

2019 redesign with updated, contemporary Scandinavian décor and a refreshed look for its restaurants

Ideal for cold weather enthusiasts in search of a remote respite (and adventure)

Transfer service between Jasper, Banff, and Calgary via the Brewster Express

No room service

Seasonal operations

Dining not included in the rate

Cold weather solace seekers should head to Alberta and check in at pristine Glacier View Lodged, located between Jasper and Banff. The seasonal resort operates between May and September. Though not entirely all-inclusive, guests can choose to book a room only (with views of the mountains or Athabasca Glacier) or opt for the Columbia Icefield Experience, which includes a guided evening tour along the Columbia Icefield Skywalk , and guided morning tour of Athabasca Glacier. All bookings include a welcome reception and beverage.

While dining at its two restaurants is not included in the room rate, an overnight at Canada’s only glacier-front resort, coupled with the guided icefield experiences, offers a unique option for solo exploration.

Best Mediterranean : Club Med Kemer - Turkey

Club Med Kemer

History, culture, and relaxation converge at this coastal all-inclusive resort in Turkey.

Water sports like skiing and snorkeling, day excursions dive into history and culture (for an additional fee), outdoor pool with mountain views

Coastal location also offers mountain views

Outdoor dining

Some travelers mentioned that the property could use an update

The resort's family-oriented marketing might be a turnoff

While Club Med’s Palmiye outpost is often touted as an ideal family-friendly resort, solo travelers cite its hospitable staff and numerous activities as just some of the many reasons to make the journey to this all-inclusive resort on Turkey’s southernly Lycian coast. Included in the nightly rate: all-day outdoor and waterfront dining, an open bar, land and water sports from waterskiing to snorkeling, entertainment like live music and the occasional all-white dress party, and gratuities. Its outdoor swimming pool (there are two) boasts the Taurus Mountains as its backdrop.

For an additional fee, book a cultural excursion and join a small group for an afternoon sail along Kekova Bay, lunch, and visit to a Greco-Roman theater. Or book a half-day historical tour through Antalya’s city center. On certain days during the week, venture into town and browse its markets full of produce, accessories, and traditional textiles.

Don’t let the marketing to couples and families turn you off, as many resorts, including the ones listed, host solo travelers and welcome them. From a domestic stay to a long weekend in the Caribbean or Europe, there’s an all-inclusive resort experience for solo travelers looking to unwind or stay active.

We considered dozens of all-inclusive resorts and filtered for the overall included value of dining and drinking, activities, and other perks. We also considered reviews from prior solo guests, and bonus points were given to resorts that offer dedicated solo traveler programming.

Federico Scotto / Getty Images

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The best solo travel destinations

By Anna Prendergast and Anna Hart

2024 is set to be huge for travellers who want to break away from the beaten path, or simply explore it on their own terms. Typically thought of as a student’s game, studies suggest that senior travellers are starting to take up more space in the  solo travel  sector. Whatever age, stage or vintage, solo travellers tend to take their time and embrace slow travel and research suggests that holidays are deemed more essential than ever for mental health, marking a shift towards carefully curated trips that have a big personal impact and a smaller environmental one. Solo travel is also increasingly accessible, with innovative tour operators such as  Planet Abled  and  Halal Tours  providing tailor-made trips to under-served communities. According to  Skyscanner , over 50 percent of travellers chose to book trips alone in 2023 if their travel interests didn't align with those of their friends – and why compromise? Whether you want to pick up a new skill, immerse yourself in a new culture, take the scenic route or make new friends on a group tour, these are the best solo travel destinations for 2024.

The French Alps

Best for: nature-first escapes

Ski holidays have long been known as group events, with rowdy aprés and jam-packed chalets, but going on a solo trip to the Alps can reap a whole host of rewards. Rise with the sun to be the first to carve through pristine blankets of snow without having to wait for anyone else, avoid boisterous bars in lieu of elegant eateries with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the slopes, and retreat to your serene hotel to cosy up by a roaring fire with a good book. For serious sophistication in Les Trois Vallées, book into Six Senses Residences Courchevel for the ultimate sleek ski experience, while Aman Le Mélézin has a cosseting spa (the deep tissue is guaranteed to re-energize tired legs). If you'd rather travel in the summer months, there are plenty of hiking tours with routes all across the French Alps offering community-led holidays for solo travellers.

Seoul, South Korea

Best for: fashion-forward travellers

There are few things quite as gratifying as a solo shopping trip, and where better to embark on a sartorial adventure than Asia’s most stylish city ? The South Korean capital is known as the home of some of the world’s best-dressed people – and Seoul ’s recent pop culture boom has had a helping hand in highlighting exactly that. Behind the glitz and glamour of Seoul’s sky scraping buildings and futuristic stores, delve into the neighbourhoods that provide the backbone to the city’s fashion-forward reputation. You’ll find artisanal havens that have been operating for generations, from shops dedicated to the ancient craft of ceramics to all-natural skincare brands pairing centuries-old traditions with the latest research. You’ll return home with a suitcase full of secrets.

Best for: safety-first solo travellers

With low crime rates and a harmonious Buddhist culture,  Bhutan  has long held a reputation as a super-safe destination for solo travellers, which is understandably a priority for many, particularly women, Black people, LGBTQ+ or minority communities. In 2022, the Trans Bhutan Trail reopened after 60 years, making this year the perfect time to follow in the footsteps of monks, traders and pilgrims on the 250-mile route. Pass through the folklore-filled Dochula Pass, visit Trongsa’s high-altitude dzongs, and hike up to the sacred cliffside Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro Taktsang – the route offers direct access to  Bhutan’s  culture and cuisine, with homestays dotted along the way and local life at every turn, with profits being redirected back into the trail and the communities that support it. The country’s spiritual heritage is somewhat infectious, with outlooks that are grounded in gratitude and see nature as a blessing – the dramatic Himalayan mountainscape, deep green valleys and pristine lakes, rivers and glaciers make it impossible to disagree.

The Galapagos, Ecuador

Best for: upmarket adventure

Few  bucket-list destinations  provide the chance to see quite so much extraordinary wildlife all in one go, but this archipelago of volcanic islands off the coast of  Ecuador  has an awe-inspiring, goosebump-giving roster of blue-footed boobies, Galápagos tortoises, sea lions, and flamingos to see in their natural, protected habitat. And that’s just above ground: scuba divers will find white-tip reef sharks, bottlenose dolphins, scalloped hammerheads, black-nosed butterflyfish, king angelfish and manta rays under the surface, especially around Darwin’s Arch and Gordon’s Rock. Liveaboards and dive boats are a super social way for solo travellers to experience somewhere like the Galapagos, which is usually pigeon-holed for large groups, but forward-thinking tour operators are starting to identify a gap in the market for those that want the option of drinks on the deck or a quiet in-room cocktail. Small charters are targeting a more upmarket crowd, such as G Adventures’ new Reina Silva Voyager, which took to the waters in April 2022 with two solo cabins, saving customers money and preserving their privacy.

Bavaria, Germany

Best for: fly-and-flop (face down on a massage table, preferably)

With health – both physical and mental – at the forefront of our consciousness more than ever before,  wellness retreats , spa holidays and treatment-focused trips are no passing trend. And whilst a couples massage sounds lovely in theory, self-care is one of the few spaces in which you’re meant to be entirely self-focused, without anyone else’s expectations, time restraints or itineraries being imposed upon you. But it needn’t feel clinical, either – Bavaria’s many baths are drawn from naturally medicinal hot springs and are often surrounded by glassy lakes, snow-topped mountains and fairytale forests deep in  Germany’s countryside . Traditional spa towns such as Bad Tölz (whose mineral-packed mud baths are credited with relieving back pain and rheumatoid arthritis) are just under an hour from Munich, whilst results-driven Alpine retreats like  Schloss Elmau are 45 minutes from Innsbruck. Flights to both are extremely affordable and take less than two hours from the UK.

Okavango Delta, Botswana

Best for: once-in-a-lifetime wildlife

Sustainable  tour operator Intrepid Travel launched its Premium range this year, and it quickly became their most popular product, particularly with the 50+ solo age group seeking out high-end experiences that both step outside their comfort zone and support local communities along the way. According to both Journey Woman and Overseas Adventure Travel, demand has never been higher for women in their 50s, with  safari trips  to destinations such as  Kenya , Tanzania and Botswana leading the trend, indicating that a bucket-list approach to travel in later life is on the rise once again. Botswana brims with breathtaking sights and sounds, as well as being a ‘big five’ destination: herds of elephants gather at waterholes; the great zebra migration takes place cross-country; lions, hippos and giraffes all call the Okavango Delta home. With blue waxbills and woodland kingfishers, it’s a birdwatcher's paradise, too. Depending on whether you’d rather see baby antelopes or take a mokoro canoe trip (for example), be sure to book the right time of year so you don’t miss out. For younguns, EcoTraining runs a variety of courses in Mashatu Game Reserve where you can learn to track animals, navigate the bush, identify species and more – from week-long workshops to year-long qualifications.

Western Australia

Best for: slow travel on your terms

Whether you’re breaking in a new driver’s license or breaking away from the nine-to-five,  Australia’s  appeal is ageless and enduring (and there’s no language barrier for those that speak English). Movements embracing travel by road and rail show no signs of slowing down, and this country’s vast open road and impressive landscape are ideal for both. Being behind the wheel provides total freedom and means you’re in control of your itinerary – if you like a place, stay a while – whilst moving around by train can take the stress out of a solo trip: your route is pre-planned and you can sit back and enjoy the ride. The Ghan is one of Australia’s – and the world’s – most iconic trains, but the transcontinental route from  Sydney  to Perth on the Indian Pacific is a great alternative. Many Aussies use the service, so it’s a fun way to eavesdrop on – and meet – the locals, and the three-day sleeper train means you can gaze out the window at the rugged Blue Mountains and endless expanse of the Nullarbor Plain.

The Dolomites, Italy

Best for: high-energy hikers

A 10-day hut-to-hut stomp through  Italy’s  stunning limestone landscape provides solitude scenery and a sense of achievement in spades – perfect for restless adventurers and those that want a physical challenge that reaps major rewards. Alta Via 1 is around 75 miles and takes about 10 days to complete, and whilst some solo travellers book a mountain leader or group trek, it’s perfectly manageable if you invest in a good guidebook and pack appropriate supplies. Depending on the route you take, there are campsites available, so many take a one-man tent (and lots of layers), but the most immersive experience comes from the traditional rifugios, simple mountainside huts with running water and shared bedrooms set among the wildflowers and evergreens. Since everyone you meet here will be on roughly the same adventure, it’s a lovely way to share stories, trade tips, reflect on the experience and even make friends.

María Casbas

Caitlin Morton

CNT Editors

Sarah James

Best for: beaches

It’s hard to imagine a coastline more abundantly blessed than Costa Rica ’s, and nature’s generosity is warmly extended to travellers. The hubs of Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, Puerto Viejo, La Fortuna and Nosara are particularly solo-traveller friendly places to start, and at friendly hostels such as Tamarindo Backpackers , lone travellers land here and immediately place themselves within a tribe of other yogis or surfers, or simply find their crew while clambering through bat-bedecked caves or scaling volcanic peaks.

One of the world’s most biodiverse nations, Costa Rica prioritises wildlife preservation with a string of outdoor adventures on the menu and development balanced by green energy such as hydro and wind power. This makes it a mecca for a particular breed of eco-minded adventurer, a true feel-good destination.

Whether you fancy hiking, mountain-biking, kayaking or even jungle ziplining your way around the country, navigating Costa Rica is made easy for you, a real bonus when you’re doing the schlep solo. Expect to rub up against reassuringly familiar trends from home including farm-to-table dining, an emphasis on sustainable travel, and achingly hip cafés – but Costa Rica remains both tantalisingly exotic and tirelessly surprising.

Stockholm, Sweden

Best for: Scandi cool

Spread across 14 islands connected by bridges, with a cobblestoned old town ( Gamla Stan ) and a smattering of elegant parks, Stockholm combines fairytale good-looks with the functionality of a Scandinavian metropolis, and the safety and slickness of this city makes it a particularly great city option for solo females.

Culture comes easy in Stockholm, so start at the Moderna Museet on the central island of Skeppsholmen, or take things shamelessly pop at the ABBA Museum Hall of Fame . Berns Hotel is the chandelier-draped grand dame with a legendary bar and restaurant, at the geographical and figurative heart of Stockholm, but the stylish young upstart is Miss Clara . This sleek 92-room Nobis hotel is housed in the former Ateneum girls school, with original art nouveau decor and herringbone parquet flooring, swirly bentwood bedheads and arched windows that overlook Sveavägen Boulevard.

Stockholm won’t snatch the crown for cutting-edge-cuisine off Copenhagen’s head anytime soon (the Danish capital has 15 Michelin stars against Stockholm’s nine), but at Mathias Dahlgren's airy, informal Matbaren brasserie on the waterfront you can pick up a Michelin starred lunch for £24.

You haven’t been to Stockholm until you’ve been on the water. Get a break from the city by taking the boat out to the idyllic harbour town of Vaxholm for lunch at the Waxholms Hotel.

Best for: adventure

Canada ’s cities are famously civilised, cultured and classy, but it’s the outdoorsy assets within easy reach of Toronto , Montreal, Vancouver or Ontario that make Canada such a mecca for solo travellers. As the globe's second-biggest country, Canada offers a vast menu of landscapes, from soaring mountains, remote beaches and wild tundra to lush rainforest, all spread across six timezones.

Adventure highlights include kayaking or rafting the South Nahanni River in the Northwest Territories or navigating the swells and surf of Nova Scotia, but the outdoors is also stamped firmly on Canadian cities, so for outdoors-obsessed solo travellers, even the cities deliver. Vancouver’s Stanley Park is that rare thing, a city park that really does feel a little rugged, but spits you out a short cycle from one of the world’s greatest food markets and streetfood scenes at Granville Island .

Heading north out of Vancouver, the quirky town of Dawson in the Yukon Territory offer a rich taste of Canadian smalltown culture, with a music festival that should belong on the list of any culture-craving solo traveller. Dawson is also the launchpad for snow-based activities in the winter months, and hiking and biking in the summertime.

New York, USA

Best for: a city break

If there is a solo travel equivalent to grabbing the bull by the horns, it is this: jetting off to the world’s most high-octane city alone. But you’re never alone in this big anonymous city, you’re never bored, and you’re never conspicuous. New York doesn’t give a damn who you’re with; and such insouciance is infectious.

Every traveller lands in New York clutching a lengthy do-do list, and solo travellers make better progress, so go eat that pretzel in Central Park, wander the art-lined walls of the Metropolitan Museum, stroll wide-eyed along Broadway, catch a world-class show, shop the big brands of Fifth Avenue and the vintage boutiques of Williamsburg and soak in a swish urban spa such as Aire Ancient Baths in Tribeca.

The city’s long-established bartop dining scene makes dining solo a relaxed affair, and with urban wineries in Brooklyn, classic Jewish delis in Manhattan and virtually every national cuisine represented in some corner of the city, your tastebuds are in for an adventure. One of the joys of Manhattan is that so many of the city’s prime cultural and artistic attractions are moments away from each other, but it’s also just a breezy subway ride to any other neighbourhood. Perhaps make a music pilgrimage to the iconic jazz joint Minton’s , where Southern-style soul food like smoked praline pork chops and bourbon-loaded cocktails is served to a soundtrack of former Minton’s players like Dizzy Gillespie, Miles Davis and Charlie Parker.

Best for: responsible travel

The Caribbean might not seem like an obvious choice for solo adventurers, but Dominica is a world away from the pricey honeymoon resorts on neighbouring islands. A ferociously geothermal island around the same size as Anglesey in Wales , Dominica’s volcanic craggy coastline and lack of white-sand beaches has deterred swanky multinational hotels and package tourists for decades – and Dominica is so much richer for it. With a thrilling menu of adventures on offer – treks to bubbling lakes, caving through gushing gorges, rafting up mangrove swamps – and the promise of genuinely affordable accommodation alongside stylish splurges, it’s a genuinely backpackable island, with a fascinating British colonial heritage, vibrant cultural scene and disarmingly caring local community.

2017’s Hurricane Maria took its toll on the island’s infrastructure and the island is keen to welcome back travellers, so this is a genuinely responsible way to spend your tourist dollar and help rebuild the island. The smart way to experience the island is to veer between affordable quirky B&Bs such as Cocoa Cottage and swanky eco-lodges including Secret Bay . An unspoiled, unknown gem, Dominica is set to re-emerge as a destination for eco-minded adventure travellers.

Best for: learning new skills

Thailand is where it all started for travellers the world over, but this South-east Asian idyll is still hard to beat when it comes to transformational solo travel, with courses in everything from Thai cookery to massage to yoga to scuba-diving, and a well-trodden route that makes Thailand particularly safe for solo female travellers.

Chiang Mai makes for a more chilled urban Thai experience than Bangkok , as well as being a springboard to Thailand’s waterfall-studded, rainforested north, and hippy hubs such as Pai. For a treat, book into 137 Pillars for 1880s Lanna architecture, but the warm Thai welcome extends to quirky, charming and more budget-friendly flashpacker joints like Mo Rooms .

Then head south to match with your own dream beach, whether it’s diving with whale sharks off Ko Tao, combining health with hedonism on Ko Phang Nguan, or kiteboarding and kicking back in Hua Hin. The serene spirituality of Thailand as well as the fact that dining well is a gloriously democratic and informal pleasure only adds to the country’s charms for solo adventurers; it’s genuinely hard to feel stressed in Thailand.

Austin, Texas

Best for: eating and drinking

Texans are famously, some would say notoriously, friendly, and Austin is a city where you’ll never be short of a smile, whether it’s across a shared plate of streetfood, across a grimy dancefloor, or across the water of one of the steamy city’s cherished swimming holes. Dining out is a thoroughly relaxed affair in Austin, as much of the best eating in town is dished out of food trucks – where solo travellers join other diners at bar-style seating and never really eat alone. There are over 1,000 food trucks rolling around town, but Gourdough’s doughnuts are cult dishes in Austin, served out of a vintage Airstream; go big and go for grilled banana and bacon.

Hip hotelier Liz Lambert runs the sleek Hotel Saint Cecilia and the more affordable San Jose Hotel around the corner on South Congress, which teems with organic grocery stores, vintage stores, coffeeshops, taco shacks and music venues like the legendary Continental Club .

If South Congress is the city’s hipster thoroughfare, the up-and-coming creative neighbourhood is the East Side, best seen after an afternoon touring and tasting the local brewery, Hops & Grain Brewing . Make pilgrimage to Rainey Street , a residential street turned urban phenomenon, where bars and cafes are housed in converted bungalows. In the morning, leap out of bed early to cycle the steamy 10-mile circuit of Ladybird Lake along the new hike and bike track’, perhaps cooling off at beautiful Barton Springs pool (free before 8am; £2 after), a vast spring-fed swimming pool hewn out of rock.

An expert's guide to Austin

Belfast, Ireland

Best for: making friends

Shunned by travellers for decades because of sectarian violence, in recent years Belfast has emerged as one of the most culturally vibrant and friendly city break destinations in Europe . This a big-hearted town where a lone traveller can turn up alone at a Cathedral Quarter bar like The Spaniard and find a few new friends before they’re halfway through that pint of Guinness. The Merchant remains the city’s smartest hotel, but there are a smattering of stylish and oddly affordable boutique joints, of which the Bullitt Hotel is an exemplar. Meanwhile, on the food scene, mainstays like Mourne Seafood rub up against innovative upstarts like the Muddlers Club .

The newly-minted Titanic Quarter is the city's number-one tourist draw, and the museum centrepiece is well worth a visit, as is the MAC Belfast and the Ulster Museum, which sits in the beautiful Botanical Gardens. Before the Troubles, Belfast was a relatively wealthy Victorian centre of shipbuilding, and leafy parks like Lady Dixon and Lagan Meadows provide a reminder of the city’s gentile past, all too often overlooked by visitors

Best for: surfing

In need of a short-haul sunny destination where you won’t be surrounded by families and couples? Portugal’ s enviable surf camp scene gives its coastline an altogether different vibe, where solo travellers can easily turn up alone and be clinking bottles of Sagres with new friend that evening.

With over 800km of coast, you can choose between melodramatic cliffs, stellar surf breaks, dune-covered beaches and serene sandy islets; Portugal can afford to be generous with its coastline, so no stretch feels entirely dominated by families, or couples, but a healthy mixture. Beyond the beaches, solo travellers hike the granite peaks of Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês or explore the traditional villages in the lesser-explored Beiras, increasingly on the map for wine-loving or retreat-craving travellers.

On top of the natural scenery, Portuguese cities like Lisbon and Porto are fiercely unconventional and informal compared to their Spanish, French or Italian counterparts. And festivals dominate Portugal ’s calendar, so consider planning a solo jaunt around Lisbon’s Festa de Santo António or Porto’s Festa de São João, or find a smaller jazz or rock festival down the coast.

But at any time of year you can hit the bars to hear the mournful strains of fado music, and in Portugal you’ll never dance alone.

Surfing holidays for women | How surf school can change your life

Best for: culture

It used to be fashionable to dismiss Singapore as a sterile stopover city, but frankly, those travellers weren’t trying hard enough. 21st-century Singapore is a cultural and culinary melting pot, with world-class cultural institutions, space-age green spaces and a thrillingly diverse hotel and restaurant scene. What travellers invariably love most about Singapore are the dramatic contrasts; historic Hindu temples sit at the feet of soaring skyscrapers, world-class museums have rainforest as their back garden, and crumbling 19th century shophouses now house vintage boutiques and speakeasy-style cocktail dens. Thanks to a long history of migration, Singapore is one of Asia ’s most ethnically diverse, and racially integrated, cities, with significant Malay, Indian and Eurasian minorities alongside the 74% Chinese Singaporean majority. This enables travellers to explore countless colourful cultures and cuisines without leaving the island. And one major bonus: English is the principal spoken language, so there is zero language barriers, adding to the friendliness and security of an already welcoming and ultra-safe city destination.

Step into Hong Kong in Chinatown, where the smell of sweet cured pork intermingles with the smoke from the Hindu temples at neighbouring Little India , whose Tekka Market is one of the most vibrant and colourful (and frequently Instagrammed) sights on the island. Meanwhile, in Kampong Glam, the Arab quarter, Haji Lane is lined with independent boutiques, retro barbershops and - the ultimate badge of hipster pride - a Tokyobike store, positioning Singapore alongside Copenhagen , Berlin , Melbourne and Shoreditch . Singapore is a place where European influences comfortably rub up against Chinese, Malay and Indian traditions; no other destination so successfully celebrates the marriage between East and West.

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Solo Tours, Travel & Vacations

• Travel styles
• Solo travel

Got the urge for adventure, but no one to do it with? Over 50% of travelers on our trips are traveling solo.

This is why traveling as part of our small group tours has its perks. We’ve got expert local leaders who can't wait to show you around, ready-made friends who are itching to explore (just like you), and optional single supplements if you want a room all to yourself. All you have to do is turn up with a smile and a passport: we’ll handle the rest.

Our most popular group trips for solo travelers

All our group trips are perfectly suited to those of you traveling solo, but here are a few favorites as rated by our previous solo travelers.

Beautiful Bali

9 days from 981.

Travel to Bali and experience this oasis off the coast of Indonesia. Bali's Ubud, Mt...

Best of Morocco

15 days from 1165.

Discover the best of Morocco on an action-packed trip exploring Marrakech, Fes, the...

Everest Base Camp Trek

15 days from 1512.

Embark on the trek of a lifetime to Everest Base Camp on this tour. Fly into Lukla and...

Explore Jordan

8 days from 1304.

Travel to Jordan and tour Amman, Madaba and the inspiring desert landscape of Wadi Rum....

Turkey Uncovered

14 days from 1344.

Discover the best of Turkey on a 14-day trip exploring Istanbul, Gallipoli, Fethiye,...

Tailor-Made trips

Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

Group trips for solo travelers by region

South Africa

The perks of solo travel on a group tour

A local leader

When you’re all by yourself, it’s easy to fall into the typical tourist traps. You wander within a few blocks of your hotel, see a few of the big sights and that’s about it. But solo travel on a group tour isn’t like that. Each of our trips has an expert local leader who knows every backstreet bar, cool tapas joint and hidden gallery. They’ll give you tips for your free time exploring, and introduce you to locals.

Ready-made friendships

Go solo, but not alone. That’s our motto. The average Intrepid Travel trip has about ten people on it – people of all ages and backgrounds from all over the world. It’s like a hostel dorm room that travels with you (minus the smell and the weird naked guy). You’ve got ready-made friends for a karaoke session in Vietnam, a  canoeing adventure in New Zealand  or a  chat over chai  at the breakfast table. For a solo traveler, it’s a nice perk to have.

Logistics and convenience

We’ve spent the better part of 30 years honing our itineraries, getting rid of the dodgy hotels and keeping the good ones, picking the best restaurants to visit, and organizing public transport and all the other logistics of travel so you don’t have to worry. Traveling alone can often be a) confusing and b) complicated. But with us, all you need is a good attitude – we’ll take care of the rest.

Our leaders know the areas of town to avoid after dark. They know how to haggle at markets, avoid pickpockets and scammers and generally have a good time without anything going wrong. And don’t forget, when you're a single traveler on a group tour, you’re in a group! You’ll have a bunch of new friends to watch your back (and your stuff). It’s all the flexibility and freedom of independent travel but without the risks.

Solo travel FAQs

Will i have my own room.

It’s completely up to you. On our trips rooming is organized on a twin-share basis and we pair up solo travelers with another traveler of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. But if you'd like your own room, an individual room is available on the majority of our trips (it’s just a small extra charge). Just mention this to our  customer service team  when booking your trip and they'll arrange it for you.

As a responsible tour operator, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. In the case that your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please  contact us  so that we can discuss rooming options with you.

On a small selection of itineraries, some accommodations are booked on an open-gender, multi-share basis (for example on a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam). In those instances, it will clearly be stated in our Essential Trip Information prior to booking and traveling.

How does group time work?

Whether you’re traveling solo or with a partner, our trips have a set itinerary. But within that, there’s time set aside for your own exploration (if you want to – no pressure). The amount of free time depends on the travel style - you can ask your guide for a few tips then head out alone, or hang out with the group and see where the day takes you.

Do I have to pay for an individual room?

Not if you don’t want to. If you’re happy to bunk with a traveler of the same gender, paired up as per the gender marker on each of their passports, there’s nothing extra to pay on the vast majority of our trips. If you want your own room, just mention it to our customer service team when booking and they can organize an individual room for a small charge.

As a responsible tour operator, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. In the case that your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please  contact us  so that we can discuss rooming options with you.

I'm new to group travel, what will my group be like?

Intrepid travelers are connected more by attitude than age. They’re a friendly, open-minded and curious bunch, and a lot of them elect to travel alone (so no third-wheeling, we promise). Our trips attract a mix of genders and ages generally ranging from 25 to 65. It’s hard to know exactly who you’ll meet, but you can be assured you'll be a part of the fun.

Is it cheaper to travel in a group?

On average, solo travel on a group tour is way more cost-effective than heading out on your own as you're splitting the costs. We can also guarantee a lot more inclusions and extras than you’d usually get for your money.

Can I tailor the trip to me?

We have a range of trip styles – Basix, Original, Comfort and Premium – that offer different levels of flexibility and free time. Lots of our travelers choose to travel on their own, so it’s common for people to want different things from their experience. Be sure to chat with your leader ; they can recommend places to explore during your free time or things to try after the trip has finished. 

Tips for solo travelers

Embrace local 

It pays to learn a little bit of the local language wherever you go and you should always consider the country’s dress code when picking out what to wear. In many places, you maybe be expected to dress modestly and cover up exposed skin so consider packing a sarong or light scarf to cover exposed shoulders, along with a long skirt or trousers. Whether you agree with it or not, it’s respectful (and smart) to follow the local style.

When you’re out and about being all adventure-y, just keep an eye on the sunset. Try to avoid catching public transport after dark when you’re on your own, especially if you’re carrying your suitcase/backpack/fancy camera/map (it kind of screams ‘tourist’). Travelling with a  group  is a smart move for any traveller; it’s always good to have people around who’ve got your back.

Social media may be the doom of mankind and rational thought as we know it, but it can be useful, even as a safety tool. Your friends and family are now privy to a minute-by-minute update of your whereabouts, regardless of where you are in the world. Before you leave home, give your friends/family a social media heads-up: ‘If I don’t post a sunset selfie for five days straight, get in touch and see if I’m okay.’

Our solo travel safety guide

Share your itinerary.

Good advice for us all, but particularly for people traveling solo. Make copies of your itinerary, contact details, passport, and travel insurance, then email them to yourself and to one or two friends/family at home. Check in on social media when you can so people can keep track of where you are. 

Remember the little things

If you’re arriving late in a city by yourself, book a hotel with a front desk or concierge service (many hotels also offer private transfers that don’t cost the earth from the airport or train station). If you're traveling with us, we can help you organize an  arrival transfer.  Read your maps  before  you head out for a walk (you can use a map app on your smartphone – or take screenshots of where you’re going if you don’t want to use up your precious data). If you need to check your map when you’re out and about, duck into a shop or café to do it. Leave the blingy jewelry, wedding rings, and designer clothes at home, and aim to dress as the locals do – hit up the local markets if you haven’t packed the right outfits. Aim to keep track of travel times, so you’re not caught out after dark.

Roam if you want to

Most mobile/cell providers now offer travel passes to help manage your international roaming costs (which, let’s face it, are expensive!). For a few dollars a day, you’ll have access to data, which means you can log into your apps (like Skype, email, and WhatsApp) when you’re out of WiFi zones and quickly get in touch with someone – a friend at home, someone in your group, or the police – if you need to. It might also be worth checking out the local cell/mobile providers as these can be quite cost-effective. 

Fare's fair

Solo travelers are way more likely to be ‘taken for a ride’ at the airport by unscrupulous taxi drivers, so do your research before you arrive. Make sure you get a cab from the airport/station taxi rank – if you’re not sure where to go, just head to the information desk for help. Touts tend to hang out in the arrivals area and promise cheaper rates, but can often be dodgy. When you get to the cab rank, ask the driver to use the meter or request a cost estimate  before  you hop in the car – if it’s way higher than it should be, pick another vehicle. A lot of airports have train stations attached as well, so consider public transport if you want to save a dollar or two.

Stick together

It’s one of the advantages of traveling solo on a group tour: safety in numbers. The big, 50-person bus groups stand out on the road, but a small  Intrepid group  of eight or nine people, with a local leader showing the way – including areas to avoid and getting around safely – won’t draw much attention. Plus, it’s a great way to see parts of the world you may feel uncomfortable exploring on your own. If you want to do things on your own, consider a  day tour  to familiarise yourself with a city and get to know the local way of life. 

Trust your instincts

Solo travel is all about confidence. If you’re relaxed and self-assured on the street, you’re more likely to blend in. When you meet new people, don’t assume they’re all out to get you, but be sensible too and trust your gut. If it feels wrong, it probably is. Remember: the popular tourist areas are often the most well-lit and secure, but they’re often a juicier target for pickpockets and scammers. Just use your common sense; half of travel safety is simply being aware of your surroundings.

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Solo Holidays for 2024 & 2025

Friendship Travel offer solo holidays in a range of destinations – UK , Europe , and Worldwide – as well as both short breaks and longer holidays. Whatever you are looking for in a solo holiday, we have a handpicked range that caters to your needs.

For those who want to travel alone, see the world solo, and meet like-minded travellers on adventures near and far, our solo holidays are the choice for you.

Browse our selection of solo holidays and the destinations we travel to using the search function at the top of this page.

Speak to a solo holidays expert

View our brochure

Types of solo holidays available

Here at Friendship Travel , we can arrange a wide variety of amazing holidays for singles . No matter what type of experience you are looking for, from a lazy week on the beach to a spectacular river cruise or fun on the ski slopes, it’s all possible.

Take a look below at the different types of ATOL protected solos holidays you can look forward to.

5-star Hotels or Cruises offering a luxury holiday

Hotels on or very close to the beach

Every summer holiday we offer

SIGHTSEEING

Explore and experience sights

Every winter holiday we offer

Cruise ships with no single supplements

Enjoy daily walks on your holiday

CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR

Join other singles over the festive period

Ski & Snowboarding

A ski holiday with other singles

HOUSE PARTY HOTELS

A large villa style holiday

Why choose Friendship Travel solo holidays?

• As a specialist singles holiday company, we are experts in solo travel.
• We personally visit every destination so we can share in-depth knowledge.
• Our solo holidays are ATOL-bonded – meaning your money is safe.
• We love to build personal relationships with our guests.
• We have previously been voted the ‘Best Small Singles Tour Operator’.
• The Friendship Travel hosts are there to make your holiday as enjoyable as possible.
• We offer ‘houseparties’ where you can stay in your own villa with like-minded travellers.
• You can travel from your local airport.

Friendship Travel solo holidays include

• A room of your own
• Return flights
• Airport transfers
• Breakfast everyday
• Dinners with other singe travellers (some holidays include lunch and or dinner)
• An expert host sharing their knowledge
• A chance to meet fellow travellers
• Freedom to explore

Your holiday flight options

A solo holiday means flexibility . That’s why, when you travel solo with Friendship Travel , you’ll have a selection of airports and flights to choose from, even on trips that include the cost of the flight in the package.

Once you’re in the country, we pay for the cost of transfers between the airport and the hotel, and we try to be as flexible with these as possible. However, if your flight is too far outside the designated time slot for arrival, we may have to charge extra for the additional journey we’ll need to make.

Read more about flight options for solo travel.

Your first solo holiday

It can be difficult to know what to expect when you set off on any holiday, and if you’re a  first-timer on one of our solo holidays,  that’s especially true.

So, below you will find just a few of the many reasons why solo traveller holidays with the award-winning travel service Friendship Travel can offer you an amazing, stress-free experience:

• You will be travelling with plenty of like-minded people to share your experience and memories with, whether you are hoping to enjoy one of our  cruises ,  walking holidays , city breaks,  ski holidays , or any other kind of getaway.
• Your Friendship Travel host/tour manager will make you feel completely at ease on your first singles holiday, introducing you to your fellow solo travellers and being your point of contact if you need any travel advice or have any concerns.
• We have tried and tested all of our hotels and resorts for your peace of mind.
• The people you share your time with on our group holidays for solo travellers are just as keen as you are to meet others and experience new places.
• Be your own tour guide! Choose what you do and who with, ensuring your holiday is entirely hassle-free. If you would prefer to spend some free time alone relaxing, that’s not a problem. Or if you want to enjoy a small group tour or shore excursions with others, that’s fine too.
• As a solos holidays specialist, we only offer package holidays which do not include the single supplement that single people are often charged when booking places on family or couple-oriented breaks. With no supplement or extra cost to pay, this means you will have more to spend on the things that really matter – like great food and drink and fascinating escorted tours.
• Even though you will be travelling solo, your accommodation will not be limited to small single rooms. On the majority of our single traveller holidays, guests are given the exclusive use of a spacious double or twin room, so you can be assured of having a comfortable and relaxing base from which to explore your destination of choice.

Your fellow single traveller holidays guests

Just because you are travelling solo doesn’t mean you have to travel alone. Of course, it’s always comforting to have an idea of what to expect before you head off on solo holidays for the first time, so you should know that we have guests from all walks of life, between 25 and 65, from the UK and Ireland, women and men. Whether you are shopping for  singles holidays for over 60s  or looking for a solo trip to enjoy in your 20s, we think you’ll love the mixture of travellers on our solos holidays.

You can also meet your fellow travellers in  our Chat Room – a great place to get started once you’ve booked your solo holiday.

Early booking offers

We have a great selection of early booking offers available to a range of wonderful holiday destinations. So, if you are looking to book a singles holiday, take a look and grab yourself a deal, such as money off for early bookings and free room upgrades.

Explore early booking offers

Last minute breaks for solo travellers

If the desire to get away has suddenly hit and you are looking to book something soon, further savings can be found with our fantastic range of last-minute breaks. We have some great deals available on an array of wonderful holidays and locations.

Apollon Hotel

Forever Hotel

Pal’s Hotel & Studios

Turkey Gulet Cruises

Our reviews.

We have been blessed with an abundance of lovely reviews from happy customers. See what other travellers have been saying about our award-winning solosadventures.

Discover solo travel on the Friendship Travel blog

READ: Why the Mediterranean is the perfect solo travel destination

READ: Reasons to opt for a singles ski holiday

READ: Things to do in Croatia on a solo holiday

Read more blog posts and news articles over on our travel blog .

Book your solo holiday today

An amazing holiday in a spectacular destination is just a few steps away.

Whether it’s the sun-soaked shores of Southern Europe, an amazing cruise in the Caribbean, or pristine snowy slopes for an exciting ski break, it’s all possible.

So, what are you waiting for? Do some research into your dream  cheap singles holiday  destination and book your solo adventure with us today. Our Friendship Travel tour leaders can’t wait to welcome you.

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Travel solo, but never alone

Explore the world with a group of like-minded people looking for their next adventure who share your love of Travel.

2024 Solos Adventures

Istanbul, Troy & Ephesus

World-famous monuments, delicious cuisine and intriguing history combine to make Turkey a traveller's dream come true. We'll discover the top highlights and immerse in culture on this fascinating tour.

• 7 nights in 4-star hotels and 14 meals
• Many amazing experiences

St Lucia: Island in the Sun

Get away from it all and relax on St Lucia's golden beaches. You'll also enjoy a tour of the island and a thrilling rainforest safari.

• 7 nights in a 3-star hotel and 10 meals

Natural Wonders of Ecuador and the Galapagos

This holiday of a lifetime is a must for lovers of nature. Explore Ecuador's incredible cloud forest, before discovering remarkable landscapes and unique wildlife when you stay on three of the UNESCO-listed Galapagos Islands.

• 12 nights in 3 & 4-star hotels and 30 meals

SINGLES ESCORTED VACATIONS

Solo vacation tours.

If you have a passion for seeing the world and love the idea of sharing new experiences and making memories that will last forever, then a solos escorted tour with Just You would be ideal...Our holiday assurance guarantee also gives you peace of mind that you’ll enjoy an incredible solo adventure with Just You and our partners in line with the World Travel and Tourism Councils Safe Travels protocols.

We Take Care Of

All the best hotels booked

Breakfasts included in all Tours

Escorted tour guide included in every trip

Here to support you every step of the way

Featured 2024 Italian Solos Vacations

Walking the Amalfi Coast

Admire remote picturesque villages and stunning views as you get out and about in the great outdoors and explore the beautiful Amalfi Coast on foot.

• 7 nights in a 3-star hotel and 15 meals

Discover Sicily

Imposing ruins, ancient history, vibrant towns and the brooding Mount Etna - discover all of this and more as you explore Italy's largest island.

• 7 nights in 4-star hotels and 15 meals

Pompeii, Sorrento & the Bay of Naples

Discover the ruins of Pompeii and marvel at Mount Vesuvius from the comfort of your 4-star hotel in the beautiful Bay of Naples.

• 7 nights in a 4-star hotel and 12 meals

Solos escorted tours

Exclusively for solo travelers.

There are so many reasons why people choose to travel independently, and at Just You, we’ve been crafting solo escorted tours for over 20 years. The great thing about all our singles tours is that you’ll be with like-minded people who share your passion for travel and sense of adventure. Don’t worry – on our vacations, you’ll always be able to enjoy new experiences with other single travellers, as well as your own free time to explore independently. No matter your age or interests, we’re sure to have trip that you’ll love.

Escorted tours departing soon

• Return flights
• 12 nights in 3 & 4-star hotels, 2 nights in flight
• 30 included meals: 12 breakfasts. 11 lunches, 7 dinners

French & Italian Riviera Splendour

Soak up the elegance and glamour of both the French and Italian Rivieras as you discover medieval villages and laze on golden beaches.

• 7 nights in a 4-star hotel
• 15 included meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 7 dinners

Croatia & the Makarska Riviera

Soak up the beauty of Croatia’s coast, explore the ancient walled cities of Zadar and Dubrovnik and discover the idyllic islands of Hvar and Brac.

America's Western Wonders

This epic tour is full of incredible highlights as you visit iconic cities, explore the awesome Grand Canyon and drive along Route 66.

• 12 nights in great quality hotels, 1 night in flight
• 14 included meals: 12 breakfasts and 2 dinners

Edinburgh Short Break

Explore Edinburgh on a short break. Visit iconic sites such as Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile and learn more about the history of this fascinating city.

• 3 nights in a 4-star hotel
• All highlights included

Highlights of Tuscany

Explore Tuscany's rolling countryside, dotted with olive groves, vineyards and medieval hilltop towns. You'll also visit Pisa, home of the Leaning Tower, and Florence, Italy's 'Art City'.

• 7 nights in 4-star hotels and 11 meals
• 12 meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners

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Safe Travels

We’re delighted to have received the World Travel and Tourism Councils (WTTC) Safe Travels stamp, which recognises those who have adopted a new set of global protocols to support the return of 'Safe Travel' around the world.

What's included?

There's so much included in a Just You tour, we take care of so much, so you don't need to worry about a thing!

Customer Quotes

Some of our travellers share their thoughts and experiences.

It was my first tour with Just you and I most certainly recommend them. From start to finish I felt I was well looked after and the itinerary was excellent. Anne

Just You Cares

Changing people's lives through travel

Working with non-profit organisation Planeterra we are supporting a variety of projects around the world through our Just You Cares initiatives.

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Solo Guided Holidays | Just You

Popular solo travel experiences.

SAVE £400 OFF BORNEO

Get in quick and take a walk on the wild side! Book our 12-day Wild Borneo solo adventure and save £400pp on our 7 June 2024 departure.

LAST-MINUTE TRIPS

Check out our latest round of solo tours departing in the next few months, including a selection of our European bestsellers, and epic Worldwide adventures too.

Save £150 on 2025 European Tours

If you're itching for more adventure in 2025, you can save up to £150 on European tours. Don't miss out - secure your spot today!

Explore the world with a group of like-minded people looking for their next adventure who share your love of Travel.

New solo adventures

Inspirational China & Yangtze Cruise

This is the ultimate tour exploring China, start in the buzzing city of Shanghai, joining a majestic four night cruise on the Yangtze River, before travelling onto to Chengdu, Xi'an and finally into Beijing.

• Return flights
• 9 nights in 4 and 5 star hotels, 4 nights cruising the Yangtze and 1 night in flight
• 13 breakfasts, 12 lunches and 9 dinners

An Italian Adventure - Shakespeare's Verona to Sicily's Shores

This amazing journey of discovery will introduce you to so many of Italy's iconic highlights, including the amazing cities of Venice, Florence and Rome.

• 15 nights in 4-star hotels
• 25 meals: 15 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 9 dinners

Inspirational India - The Deccan Odyssey and Beyond

The ultimate way to explore India's Golden Triangle, Rajasthan, Amritsar and Shimla. Spend 7 nights on the luxury heritage train Deccan Odyssey exclusively chartered for Just You as a one-off departure in celebration of our 25th anniversary!

• 8 nights in 5 stars hotels, 7 nights on a luxury heritage train and 1 night in flight
• 39 meals: 15 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 15 dinners

We Take Care Of

All the best flights already selected

All the best hotels booked

Breakfasts included in all Tours

Escorted tour guide included in every trip

Here to support you every step of the way

SINGLES ESCORTED HOLIDAYS

Solo holiday tours.

If you love exploring the world, creating lasting memories, and want to travel with the UK's Best Singles Holiday company, Just You, look no further. Our Reassurance Guarantee ensures you can book with confidence, and with Holiday Assurance , we'll be there to support your travel plans when you're ready to explore the world again.  Why not join our travel community also and chat to like minded people.

Escorted tours departing soon

Natural Wonders of Ecuador and the Galapagos

This holiday of a lifetime is a must for lovers of nature. Explore Ecuador's incredible cloud forest, before discovering remarkable landscapes and unique wildlife when you stay on three of the UNESCO-listed Galapagos Islands.

• 12 nights in 3 & 4-star hotels, 2 nights in flight
• 30 included meals: 12 breakfasts. 11 lunches, 7 dinners

French & Italian Riviera Splendour

Soak up the elegance and glamour of both the French and Italian Rivieras as you discover medieval villages and laze on golden beaches.

• 7 nights in a 4-star hotel
• 15 included meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 7 dinners

Croatia & the Makarska Riviera

Soak up the beauty of Croatia’s coast, explore the ancient walled cities of Zadar and Dubrovnik and discover the idyllic islands of Hvar and Brac.

America's Western Wonders

This epic tour is full of incredible highlights as you visit iconic cities, explore the awesome Grand Canyon and drive along Route 66.

• 12 nights in great quality hotels, 1 night in flight
• 14 included meals: 12 breakfasts and 2 dinners

Edinburgh Short Break

Explore Edinburgh on a short break. Visit iconic sites such as Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile and learn more about the history of this fascinating city.

• 3 nights in a 4-star hotel
• All highlights included

Highlights of Tuscany

Explore Tuscany's rolling countryside, dotted with olive groves, vineyards and medieval hilltop towns. You'll also visit Pisa, home of the Leaning Tower, and Florence, Italy's 'Art City'.

• 7 nights in 4-star hotels and 11 meals
• 12 meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners

It was my first tour with Just you and I most certainly recommend them. From start to finish I felt I was well looked after and the itinerary was excellent. Anne

Most Popular Destinations

Holidays To Croatia

From the picturesque coastal cities of Split and Dubrovnik to the elegant islands of Hvar, Brac, and Zlarin, you are guaranteed a good time wherever you go

Holidays To Italy

Italy, renowned for its beauty and charm, offers the perfect setting for singles holidays & solo tours. Those fortunate enough to set foot in this captivating country receive a warm welcome and are instantly enamoured by its magnificent cities, historical sites, and breathtaking natural landmarks.

Holidays To South Africa

South Africa offers excitement, enchantment and exquisiteness in equal measure. Famed for its mix of spectacular scenery and diverse wildlife, South Africa is a firm favourite when it comes to deciding on a holiday destination.

AT JUST YOU

Worldwide holidays for solo travellers.

We curate escorted touring holidays tailored for solo travelers. we're here to ensure that everything runs smoothly and you have the trip of a lifetime. If you’re looking for complete freedom while staying connected to a group you’re at the right place. We not only provide you a safe space to explore the world, we also take care of the whole holiday. Just book and let us handle the rest.

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Just you cares.

Change people's lives through travel

Working with non-profit organisation Planeterra we are supporting a variety of projects around the world through our Just You Cares initiatives.

Read Our blogs

Discover the True Beauty of Vietnam

We hear travel delights from the first Just You group to travel to Vietnam for over 2 years

Claire Sweeney in Andalucia

Just You’s Travel Ambassador, Claire Sweeney, known for her stage and TV appearances, travelled to Andalucia recently. Read about her travels here

Top tips for travelling solo

Take a look at our top ten tips to make sure your solo adventure is one to remember for the right reasons.

Looking for holiday inspo?

Looking for inspiration for 2024? Check out our new tours of 2024

Best Walks and Hikes in Italy

Follow trails carved by Romans, pilgrims and shepherds to uncover some of the most incredible landscapes and pretty towns.

No Fly Holidays

Exploring the world is exciting but flying simply isn’t for everyone. Just You offers no-fly options to suit everyone’s needs.

*Please see essential information for terms & conditions

Going it alone: 10 of the best trips for solo travel

O nce the preserve of singletons and gap-year students, solo travel has recently taken on a shiny new look. Rather than a function of necessity or compromise, holidaying alone has become the ultimate indulgence in 2024: a rare chance in this ultra-demanding world to put one’s own needs and priorities first.

"Travelling solo is a liberating experience. It offers the chance to do what and go where you want, on your own terms," says Jonathan Frankham of World Nomads . "It also makes you more likely to branch out, forge deeper connections with others and discover more about yourself."

In short, people are now travelling solo not because they have to – but because they want to. Emboldened with a ‘now or never’ attitude post-pandemic and more confident than ever about spending time in solitude, travellers are busy booking their dream trips, regardless of life stage or relationship status. Many tour operators have noticed the trend: Scott Dunn reported a 30 per cent increase in solo bookings in 2023, while Black Tomato saw them almost double. In response to demand, many operators have launched solo travel collections or solo-specific departure dates, while others are waiving pricey single supplements.

The range of solo travel experiences on offer has broadened, too. You can tick off bucket list trips like hiking the Camino de Santiago or cruising to Antarctica that loved ones in your life might be reluctant to commit to – but also book self-care wellness breaks or enriching learning holidays. Some trips, such as those from Discover the World , let you dial up or down the amount of time you spend in a group environment, so you get both alone time and the reassuring safely blanket that comes with being around others.

A reassuring safe space can be especially appealing to solo female travellers , of which there are now more than ever. According to Student Universe 84 per cent of polled Gen Z women are interested in solo travel, while Craft Travel reports a 350 per cent increase in women-based adventure travel compared to last year. Founder of the latter, Julia Carter, says: "Women who we would have more often seen putting off ‘adventurous’ destinations until they had a partner or their partner’s schedule allowed are no longer holding back."

10 solo trips to try

1. polar bears in canada.

In response to a noticeable uptick in solo bookings, Discover the World has just launched a new solo travel collection with dedicated singles departure dates – including to New Zealand and Iceland. Some trips are catered specifically to female travellers, including a special women-only departure of the Polar Bear Adventure in October 2024. There will be a female expedition leader at the helm when you journey on special ‘polar rovers’ to see the snow-white giants in the Churchill wilds, and you’ll have the chance to meet local indigenous women and hear about their lives on the arctic tundra too.

Five days from £7,593, discover-the-world.com

 2. Pilates in Morocco

For special interest breaks – whether that’s painting , cookery or learning a language – Flavours Holidays ticks the boxes for solo travellers, as it never charges a single supplement. The upcoming group Pilates Morocco Retreat will give you a week in a villa overlooking the Atlas mountains, with daily pilates classes and an optional hike into the sun-baked landscapes. Explore the bustling Marrakech souks, wander through the serene Majorelle Garden or tuck into fragrant tagines, either with new friends or when exploring on your own.

Seven days from £2,199, flavoursholidays.co.uk

3. Walking in Spain

Love nothing more than a good yomp in the great outdoors? More than half of Ramble Worldwide travellers are solo hikers, so you’ll be in good company. The moderately difficult Walking from San Telmo itinerary on Mallorca doesn’t have a single supplement and takes in raw mountain and coastal trails – including a challenging climb on the Archduke’s Trail around the hills of S’Arraco (the views are worth the thigh-burn). You’ll also have time to visit uninhabited island Dragonera, see hillside village Valldemossa and unwind by the pool in the spring or autumn sunshine (departure dates include April, May, September and October 2024).

Seven days from £1,285, ramblersholidays.co.uk

4. Safari in Kenya

A safari is a proper bucketlist trip – but one that can feel challenging to tackle all on your own. Dedicated solo holiday specialist Friendship Travel brings together world-class wildlife with beachside downtime in a group hols where there’s always a host on hand if you need them. The Kenya Safari and Beach itinerary kicks off on the sands at Diani Beach on the Indian Ocean before heading into the bush for stays at two different safari camps – one with views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the other in the heart of a 10,000-acre private game sanctuary. Then there’s more lazy lounger time again before you head home.

Seven nights from £2,550, friendshiptravel.com

5. Getting fit in St Lucia

Wellness breaks are an understandably popular pick among solo travellers; all that alone time gives you the opportunity to overhaul your eating regime, set new fitness goals or undergo a major health reset. All-inclusive wellbeing resort BodyHoliday in St Lucia has a themed ‘September solos’ month where the usual single supplement is waived and the extensive rota of fitness classes and activities is supplemented by group hosted dinners. You also get a spa treatment included on every day of your stay.

Seven nights from £3,000, scottdunn.com

6. Culture in Oman

Sustainably minded YellowWood Adventures focuses on cultural holidays that really get under the skin of a unique destination – and 70 per cent of travellers on their trips are solos. The Undiscovered Oman trip lets you get stuck into the local lifestyle and scenery, meeting Bedouins, sailing around the protected Daymaniyat Islands and wild camping in the powdery Sugar Dunes desert by the Gulf of Oman. The company also supports charity endeavours on the ground in their destinations and compensates for emissions by planting 15 trees per traveller through WeForest.

Nine days from £2,799, yellowwoodadventures.com

7. Female empowerment in Turkey

With so many solo female travellers knocking on their door – around a third of all their bookings – Intrepid Travel decided it was time to relaunch their portfolio of female-only trips, designed to immerse you in the cultural spaces of local women. On a new Turkey Women’s Expedition, you’ll visit a mother and daughter in their Istanbul home to sample börek, hike the Soganli Valley and visit a social enterprise that supports low-income women through handicrafts.

12 days from £2,315, intrepidtravel.com

8. Cruising in Peru

Cruising can be perfect for solo travellers, as travel by ship provides the comforts of group travel with the option to be reclusive when you fancy. Luxe small-ship line Aqua Expeditions has announced that it’s waiving solo supplements (usually 25% extra) on select cruises in 2024 and 2025, including voyages on the Aria Amazon in January, February and September. Sailing down the jungle-cloaked Peruvian Amazon on the intimate ship, you’ll get the inside track from experienced naturalist guides on the rich marine and land life. Off-boat expeditions let you see it all up close; piranha fishing, anyone?

Seven nights from £6,030, aquaexpeditions.com

9. Sunshine in Vietnam

Get to know one of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating countries and soak up the tropical sunshine with a multi-award winning specialist in the solo travel sphere, Just You. Running over nearly two weeks to give you the full country immersion, the Discover Vietnam trip includes a sightseeing tour in Hanoi, an overnight cruise in Halong Bay and a visit the UNESCO-protected old town of Hoi An, along with plenty of other stops. A good pick if you want to be in a social group dynamic for your entire trip.

From £3,699, justyou.co.uk

10. Remote adventure in Togo & Benin

Even if you normally travel with a partner or family, a solo expedition can suit when you want to experience somewhere more niche on your wish list. Wild Frontiers does those kind of unique destinations – everywhere from Kyrgyzstan to Honduras – like a pro and perhaps unsurprisingly 70% of their customer base is solo travellers. A Togo & Benin Voodoo Explorer trip delves deep into the rich cultures of West Africa, exploring the UNESCO Royal Palace of Abomey, boat-riding through the continent’s largest stilt village and discovering haunting Ouidah, spiritual home of voodoo.

14 days from £3,495, wildfrontierstravel.com

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Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

45+ Solo Travel Destinations for Christmas and New Year’s

August 22, 2023 by Tracey Nesbitt

Solo travel destinations for Christmas can be difficult to choose and a puzzle to plan–but such a pleasure to enjoy!

Some people just want to get away. Others have time off built into their schedules, like Alison. “I worked in big corporate sales environments whose clients shut down over Christmas so taking leave then was sometimes mandatory. It was great to escape the commercialism, sympathetic looks, and the tricky family members and experience lots of different cultures' celebrations.”

Christmas and New Year's Eve can be tricky holidays for solo travelers. That's what makes the recommendations that follow so special: they are all from members of the Solo Traveler community who have personally spent the holidays alone in destinations around the world.

Over the last few years, we have compiled recommendations for over 45 solo travel destinations for the holidays. Please keep in mind that none of the recommendations below are endorsements from Solo Traveler, as we have not visited them all ourselves.

Let's start with an enthusiastic holiday travel reminiscence from Linda.

‪ I love being away for Christmas to escape the family festivities.‪ I can't remember when I was home last time over the Christmas holidays. I've been to Namibia, Kenya, Ivory Coast, India, Taiwan, Florida, Australia, China, and so on. I'm still looking for a travel destination for this year. I might not want to go that far, so I'm thinking Europe or the Middle East, or maybe a yoga holiday.

Table of Contents

What To Do On the Actual Holiday Dates

Travel in the holiday season in countries that celebrate Christmas and New Year's can be festive and beautiful, with lights and other decorations, events, music, markets, parades and more. People are often especially friendly and chatty and the air is filled with the scents of baked goods, seasonal drinks, and evergreens.

But what about the actual days, December 24-26, And December 31-January 1? What does a solo traveler do when the destination shuts down? I have had a number of people tell me that nothing is open in their city, there is no transportation available, and nothing to do.

Here's the thing: that isn't entirely true. While it's true that many of the things we might make use of as locals will be unavailable, there are still options for travelers. We wouldn't necessarily know about them as locals, because we've never really needed to know. Here are a few options that may be available to you in a solo travel destination you choose for Christmas or New Year's.

• Day Tours I once spent a week in London over Christmas. On Christmas day, I took a bus tour of Windsor, Bath, and Stonehenge. There were lots of solo travelers on the tour, which included Christmas lunch by a roaring fire in a historical pub in the English countryside.
• Volunteering What could be more in keeping with the season than to help serve dinner to people in need? Homeless shelters, churches, or community centers might welcome an extra pair of hands and in return, you will be fed both physically and spiritually.
• Dine Out Hotel restaurants are a good bet for a Christmas dinner. Almost everyone staying there will also be away from home, so you'll have a natural conversation starter if you feel like meeting people. Plan ahead, though – these dinners can fill up quickly. Look for a list of restaurants that will be open on Christmas day in your destination, like this one for London .
• Dine In Pick up your favorite foods – or try new ones – before the stores close, and treat yourself to whatever your heart desires on the holiday. With no pressure to engage in sightseeing, relax and indulge. Watch a movie, take a bath, cook yourself a meal if you're in an apartment, take a swim if you're in a hotel. Dive into that book you've been meaning to read. Take a nap. It's all up to you!
• Take a Walk See the destination in a new light. With far fewer people and vehicles on the streets, get a good look at the architecture and scenery, not to mention the Christmas lights. Take photos, including selfies, if you're so inclined, with no pressure to be quick about it and fewer obstacles in your way.
• Make It a Travel Day Flying on Christmas or New Year's Eve or Christmas Day has its benefits. Since most people want to be in their destination for those dates, fewer people will be in transit. That means more room, potentially lower prices, and possibly better moods or even a chance for an upgrade.
• Enjoy a Choir Check to see if churches in the area are holding special Christmas services. Whether you observe the day or not, it can be a beautiful thing to be a part of someone else's traditions.
• Take a Tour or Cruise If you just want to get away and don't want to have to do all the planning and organizing, leave it all to someone else! Just show up and enjoy. Participate in the things you like, forgo the rest.

Speaking of tours, here are a couple of options for the 2023 holiday season:

Christmas in London or Paris? A Difficult Choice.

Below are dozens of holiday season destinations for solo travelers listed by continent.

The two cities in this section could have been included there as well but they are worth some special attention. The charm of London and Paris can be experienced all year round, but during the December holidays, they each dress up in a special way and offer more magic than ever. Hence, they get some extra profile.

London Over Christmas and New Year's

Special London activities for Christmas and New Year's include:

• Covent Garden . Covent Garden is a car-free area for shopping, dining, and entertainment located in London's West End. Learn more about Christmas in Covent Garden here .
• Kew Gardens . Their annual after-dark festivities include sparkling tunnels of light, dancing lakeside reflections, and the fire garden. Learn more .
• St. Paul's Cathedral . Whether you're Anglican or not, St. Paul's Cathedral is definitely worth a visit. They hold concerts throughout the year. Here's what they have going on over the holiday season .
• Hyde Park Winter Wonderland . It starts mid-November and ends January 2nd and tickets must be purchased online , in advance. There are shows and rides.
• Oxford Street to Carnaby Street . Oxford Street is always done up for Christmas. From there, wander down Argyle Street (you can take Regent Street, but on Argyle you'll pass the London Palladium) to Liberty London (their famous prints are making a nice comeback). Then head down Carnaby Street, which is for pedestrians only, for trendy, Soho shopping.
• St. Martin-in-the-Fields. New Year's Eve Opera and Operetta Matinée by Candlelight with highlights from many operas. Tickets on sale here .
• City cruises and tours . A quick google search will deliver open-top buses and cruises on the Thames to take you through London to soak in the Christmas spirit.

For more options, read Solo Travel London on a Budget .

Where to stay in London for Christmas? I suggest making it special. My top recommendation is Montague on the Gardens , located in Bloomsbury near the British Museum and walking distance to the West End and Covent Garden. It is cozy and very, very British. Have dinner there and you won't have to search for what is open on Christmas and New Year's in London. For more options read Best Places to Stay in London: Accommodation for Solo Travelers .

What our readers say:

Suzanne, who spent the holidays in London last year, says that the city  nicely celebrates the holidays with food festivals, carnivals, ice skating, and more. Tickets for the New Year's Eve fireworks, the largest annual fireworks display in the UK, go on sale in October, and Suzanne says it is an amazing experience to see in person.  

London also comes highly recommended as a solo travel destination for Christmas by Bev, who has  spent the holidays there five times. A little tip she shared with us is to “bring your own holiday music–the songs you really love to hear and that make you smile, not just what you think is traditional.”

Bella suggests that you “take a night tour of London and see it all lit up, especially the lovely tree at Buckingham Palace.”

We even have some insider tips from Ann, a very enthusiastic local!

I admit I live here, but one of the best times of the year to be in London is between Christmas and New Year as there are next to no tourists and lots of the locals leave the city to stay with relatives outside of the city or abroad. Last year I saw the Nutcracker ballet in the Coliseum on Christmas Eve and walking home afterwards was magical, so quiet and just a hint of frost in the air. Should we be lucky enough to get a white Christmas, it is even better as the snow muffles all the sounds and with all the old buildings and alleyways in the city, it truly feels like you are in Dickens' London in A Christmas Carol. You almost expect to run into Scrooge and Cratchit!  

Paris Over Christmas and New Year's

Special Paris activities for Christmas and New Year's include:

• Champs Élysées . Naturally, this is a required stop as the boulevard is lit with millions of sparkling lights in celebration of the season.
• Tuileries Garden Magie de Noël . This is Paris' largest Christmas market. It includes a Christmas-themed carnival–a continuation of the tradition of “fun fairs” in Paris since Medieval times–an “Artisan Village,” and, naturally, delicious food and drinks. Starting in November, Christmas markets pop up all over Paris.
• Skating . While at the Tuileries Garden, participate or just watch the skating.
• Holiday window displays . Paris' famous department stores put on the Christmas ritz in their window displays. Go to Printemps Haussmann or Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann for the displays. Go to their rooftops for great views of Paris.
• The arts . This is a great list of concerts, operas and ballets in Paris over the holidays . The wonderful thing about music and ballet is that you don't need to understand French.
• City cruises and tours . A quick google search will deliver open-top buses and cruises on the Seine to take you through Paris to soak in the Christmas spirit.

For more options, read Solo Travel Paris on a Budget: Now Is the Time .

Where to stay in Paris for Christmas? I suggest treating yourself for a night or two at the Parisienne boutique hotel Hotel Saint-Louis en l'Isle . It's in the exciting Marais district in the 4th Arrondissement and just 250 m from Cathedral Notre Dame de Paris and the Latin Quarter. Newly renovated, it's modern but with old world character. However, while it offers breakfast, it does not have a restaurant.

Another option is Hôtel l’Echiquier Opéra Paris . It's located on a side street in the 10th Arrondissement away from the crowds and noise but close to Paris' highlights. Built in the 1850's and decorated in a beautiful Belle Époque style, it has a full restaurant and bar.

For more options, read Best Hotels in Paris for Solo Travelers: Reader Recommendations .

Paris is recommended as a wonderful solo travel destination for Christmas by Micheline. “Paris is festive at Christmas. Try to arrive a day or two ahead, so you can get your bearings and figure out your plan for the holiday. Before Christmas, you can see the fascinating Buche de Noel displays in bakery windows. While many restaurants close for Christmas itself, hotel restaurants serve dinner and Paris has some wonderful ones. Be sure to take a stroll or a cab ride to see the lights.”

It's also recommended by Sonja. “I loved it. I spent the 24th in Versailles and the Louvre and had a lovely dinner. The 25th was for walking only. It's a bank holiday in Paris as well so everything was closed. But the Christmas service in Notre Dame was breathtaking. I left on the 26th so I don't know how it would have been over New Year's, but it's probably great.”

December Holiday Destinations Around the World

Antarctica and Arctic Regions

Reykjavik, Iceland at New Year’s is absolutely incredible, says Natalie. “There's a constant supply of fireworks, even in daylight. When I went, I headed to the top of the hill where the Hallgrimskirkja Church is, as there is a big gathering of locals where the fireworks are set off. When I left to walk back to the hotel at about 12:30 pm, the fireworks were still going off and it was just the best, happiest atmosphere. It has to be my favorite new year.”

Iceland is also recommended by Emily. “I did Christmas in Iceland solo a few years back. I would definitely recommend it. It was my first white Christmas – it actually snowed on Christmas Day. I was terrified before getting there but it turned out to be absolutely amazing!”

Solo Holiday Destinations in Africa

Cape Town, South Africa is recommended by Lize. “For the winelands, beaches, forest, and mountains.”

Djibouti and Ethiopia  are the destinations where Catherine spent last Christmas and New Year. “In Djibouti on Christmas Eve/Christmas Day I was on a two-day trip to Lakes Assal and Abbe, which was fantastic. I spent New Year’s Eve in Ethiopia climbing Dallol Volcano in the Danakil Depression as part of a 3-day tour. Both were excellent experiences and yielded great memories to mark the days.

Marrakech,  Morocco  is recommended by Riad. “You'll get to enjoy the wonders of the city, the monuments, the souks, the food, a camel ride, skiing in the Atlas Mountains, or a day trip to the surrounding villages. All that in one city–and it's sunny even in December.”

Tunisia is Rebekah's suggestion  “for a nice sunshine resort break and lots of relaxing in the sun.”

Asian Destination Recommendations

Japan  Aaron tells us that Christmas is not a public holiday in Japan, so everything is open, which is great for travelers. He says, “the Japanese do love celebrating it, so there are loads of Christmas decorations and festivals. I spent the last 2 Christmases in Tokyo and Hokkaido, and it was awesome.”

Says Joleen, “Japan is lovely during the New Year season as many families are out in full force in their beautiful kimonos visiting the temples. However, many eateries and attractions are closed during this period, so that’s something to look out for!”

Hiroshima and Kyoto  are recommended by Nancy for Christmas solo travel destinations. “It was wonderful. I ended up in Hiroshima on Christmas Day. The city was lit up with winter lights, and beautiful. New Year's in Kyoto was incredible, listening to all the many temple bells ringing in the year. I travel alone very often and always have great experiences.”

Brian says, “I enjoyed Kyōto on Christmas, as it felt like a regular Monday when I visited. Lots of places were open. (Do mind though that the first days of January are a Japanese national holiday where some attractions and most small businesses are closed from New Year's Eve until typically the fifth of January.)”

Tokyo  is recommended by T.C. “There are decorations everywhere, but everything is much more low key and uniquely Japanese.”

Korea is recommended by Wulan. “Last Christmas and New Year, going to South Korea, alone but feeling good, I went to Bosingak to count down the new year. It is full with people, so you can't easily move your body but it was a great experience.”

Singapore Victoria chose Singapore as one of her solo holiday destinations. “As it is a Buddhist country, they weren’t too bothered by December 25th. I was! The best places I found were actually 5* hotels as they were full of tourists celebrating Christmas. We had such fun as there were lots of other solo travelers there too.

Southeast Asia  is suggested by Jules. He spent “two weeks Eco Volunteering with Bamboo Young at Heart. Week one was in Surin province Thailand, working with elephants, then Siem Reap, Cambodia to work with Water Aid. Then I was on my own meandering through Cambodia and back to Thailand for 5 weeks. I'm 62, and it was my first solo backpacking experience. I didn't want to come home!”

Vietnam is Jennifer's recommendation. “I'd go just about anywhere in Vietnam solo, but specifically Hoi An & Hue are lovely.”

Solo Holiday Destinations in The Americas

Eleuthera, Bahamas is recommended by Eva. “Every year I used to rent a different beach house on the island of Eleuthera. Sometimes I still do. Often friends and family joined, but if they did not that was alright, too. Deserted beaches, a kayak, and I was in heaven. The aim was to miss all the Christmas and New Year’s hoopla.”

Quebec, Canada is recommended by Ron. “I went skiing around Quebec a few years back. It has relatively cheap skiing and it's not very crowded. You definitely will get a white Christmas to boot!”

Galapagos, Ecuador  is   recommended by Jasmine. “I’m going to the Galapagos for New Year’s. I will be solo, but with like-minded adventurers on a boat.”

Antigua, Guatemala is recommended by Casey. “I loved it. I never felt alone since my hosts included me. It's best to stay with a family here. They don't hype up Christmas but it is a spectacular Christmas Eve.”

Guadalajara, Mexico is recommended by Jenny who “spent Christmas at a homestay where they celebrate their Christmas dinner and opening of gifts on December 24th. It was an experience to remember.”

Cusco, Peru   A memorable Christmas for Carole was spent in Cusco. “They have an amazing market on the 24th where locals buy everything needed to create a nativity scene. On Christmas Day they are all on display on church steps or entryways, from miniatures to full size. And that's just the start of the festivities!”

United States

Disney World, Florida  is recommended by Tania, “for a magical experience – hands down.” Read Solo to Walt Disney World: A First Timer’s Complete Guide .

Hawaii is where Delma has spent the holidays for the last two years. “I love my aloha Christmas! When on Christmas Day people are having dinner and opening presents, I am swimming at the beach and drinking Mai Tais!”  

Chicago, Illinois delighted Rachel. “I went to Chicago for the first time for five days over Christmas last year. I was more than pleasantly surprised by the city and its people. I lucked out with the weather (the second warmest on record), was impressed with the architecture and with how much the city was decorated for the holidays, and I have to say, the people are some of the friendliest I've come across in the United States. I didn't have enough time to see everything I wanted to, but it felt so Christmassy I didn't mind. It was the first time I've gone on vacation for Christmas, and definitely won't be the last.”

New Orleans, Louisiana is the solo travel destination Jenny chose for Christmas on her last pre-pandemic international trip. “I loved the Christmas spirit all over this vibey City with most of the stores, buildings, hotels, etc. decked and all adorned with tree trimmings. The night markets and activities were interesting and entertaining. The brass bands with their variety of musical instruments strutted along the streets, and the nightclubs as well as the street corner buskers kept the spirit warm as nightfall was a bit on the cold side! I loved the Creole food and their beignets and coffee were a favorite of mine at Cafe du Mont!”

New Orleans is the place to be, according to Micheline. “Throughout the holidays, restaurants hold Reveillon Dinners, which are prix fixe, festive dinners with special dishes. The weather is mild, decorations are up and people are incredibly friendly. Because it’s a Catholic city, there are lots of services with great music. Bonus: if you can stay through Jan. 6, carnival season officially begins.  

Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona is recommended by Micheline. “I definitely recommend the Phoenix/Scottsdale area. The botanical garden and the zoo are decorated in festive lights. The winter sky is a beautiful color. The temperature is just right, usually in the 70s. Many restaurants have outdoor patios and it's great to watch the pretty sunsets.”

San Juan, Puerto Rico is recommended by  ‪ Suzanne. “I flew to San Juan, Puerto Rico a few days after Christmas. I stayed in the old city. I loved all the decorations that were up for Christmas! There was lots of activity going on and I always felt safe. I took a tour with Spoon Food Tours and loved it! After a few days in San Juan, I did a one week cruise (also solo) on Celebrity's Summit — also fabulous!”

San Diego, California is recommended by John for people looking for a solo travel destination for Christmas. “Last year, I did a quick trip to San Diego for a few days between Christmas & New Year's. I stayed in a boutique hotel in Little Italy. I used the trolley the whole time I was there. I took the Coaster up to Oceanside for the day to see the Surf Museum. The weather was phenomenal! There are very good restaurants on India Street in Little Italy and the Old Town area. I highly recommended this city.”

Sedona, Arizona  Trina says, “Christmas in Sedona: it's a lovely time of year to visit, not too cold, and you're still able to go hiking!”

Tucson, Arizona  Miraval Resort & Spa in the Santa Catalina Mountains in northern Tucson is recommended by René. “You can be as active or as chill as you want at this resort. The location is beautiful, and the food is fantastic!”

Washington, DC is recommended by Micheline. It's “wonderful at the holidays. The city is beautifully decorated, and the White House is gorgeous during Christmas. It's become a great restaurant town, too, and there are lots of holiday dishes on menus. Don't worry about cold weather, it's a temperate place.” Rebekah agrees, adding that during  the week between Christmas and New Year's, she found “bright sunshine and got to look around all the sights and museums with hardly any crowds. I loved it!”  

While it wasn't the week of Christmas, I visited DC in December one year, indulging in some of my favorite things: food, wine, and art.

European Solo Travel Destinations for Christmas and New Year's

A Grand Tour Greta spent this past Christmas and New Year's in Europe on a month-long grand tour. “I visited 17 different countries and 36 different cities. I also experienced snow for the first time, and met so many new friends. I think I am going to start this as a new tradition for myself and pick a new country every holiday season.”

River Cruise Trina really enjoyed a European river cruise during the holiday season. “They stopped at all ports that had Christmas Markets. I highly recommend AMA Waterways, everything that was included was wonderful: the service, food, and tour offers. Plus, they offer to waive the single supplement fees.”

A Northern Tour is recommended by Cheri.

Last year, I did Germany (Triberg-the black forest, Frankfurt, and Hamburg for the Christmas markets). I had a lot of fun, and enjoyed good food and decor. I also went to Denmark, Copenhagen area at Christmas and enjoyed the food and markets there also. I took the train to “Hamlet's castle” and took the ferry to have lunch in Sweden. I finished up my trip in Holland, seeing the festival of lights from the canals, a country tour of windmills, and enjoying cheese and biscuits. I had a great time. The prices were lower than in the summer, the decorations were great, and there where fewer people–except maybe in Amsterdam.

Budapest, Hungary  is recommended by Arlene. “ I went to Budapest last year. It was fabulous. I got one of the last tickets for the Nutcracker ballet at the Opera House on Christmas Day. I recommend it for a solo trip.”

It's also recommended by Alison, along with Prague and Brussels. “I went to Prague, Budapest, and Brussels last year. It was beautiful. It was nice to spend the holiday time being productive and exploring rather than sitting around in a food coma.”

‪Christmas Markets in Germany are recommended by Karla. “I go every year to the Christmas Markets. I absolutely love them–and I'm never lonely.” See Exploring Christmas Markets in Germany and France .

Munich Janice visited six Christmas Markets in Munich alone. “Most run to December 23rd or 24th. The Tollwood Festival, which includes a Christmas Market, runs to December 31st and concludes with a big event on New Year’s Eve. I think that would be a perfect place for a solo traveler to celebrate the final night of the year.”

Nuremberg  is recommended by Shannon. “The traditional Christmas market is an amazing experience.”

Ireland I spent a week traveling around Dublin, Cork, and Galway just before Christmas last year. It was very festive and welcoming, and in spite of the fact that I am accustomed to snowy Canadian winters, the rain didn't bother me one bit. I attended Christmas concerts in churches in two different cities, admired the twinkling lights in the streets of Dublin, and enjoyed a pot of tea by the fire in the glow of the Christmas tree lights at my hotel. It was the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit! You can read about my trip in Dublin, Cork & Galway: Exploring Ireland Solo .

Prague, Czech Republic  is one of the most popular solo travel destinations for Christmas. I have only been away from home at Christmas twice in my life, and one of those years it was to spend  A Solo Christmas in Prague .

Gabriella also spent Christmas in Prague a few years ago. “I recommend the chimney cake stalls, short daytime classical concerts in churches, Charles Bridge at dawn on Christmas/Boxing Day, riverside walks, and if you want to brave the crowds, the Christmas Tree in the Old Town Square.”

Rudy also highly recommends Prague as a solo holiday destination.

I stayed in a hotel suite in the city center for comfort and short distances. On Christmas Eve, I enjoyed the Mozart dinner at the Grand Hotel, sharing a table for socializing. The food was little to write home about, but the red and white rococo cake surroundings were! On December 25 th , I took in a classical concert at the Rudolfinum. On the 26th, I went to the Baroque castle Zamek Liblice, 1 hour by train from Prague Central Station. Back in Prague again, another night was spent indulging in culture, though I don't remember if it was in the National Theatre or a cheesy pub crawl! Needless to say, I did visit the Christmas markets, and really felt the spirit of Christmas despite the lack of snow (normally a must for a Scandinavian). Prague is also loaded with events. There is hardly a day without palace concerts. Some things are closed during Christmas, but the city is full of internationals, and sites like Tripadvisor, MeetUp, InterNations, AirBnB (events) and Couchsurfing (events) offer a wide selection of things to do. Public transportation functions well, and I personally recommend the tram if you're not walking. Enjoy your trip – I surely did!

Norway is recommended by Sandra.

I do the Norwegian Coastal Ferry (Bergen-Kirkenes-Bergen) on Hurtigruten. They normally do not charge a single supplement and it’s a beautiful cruise. Dining is excellent and excursions are offered. Just remember the coastal ferries are working ships and not cruise ships. Some stops are just for a few minutes while others are several hours. There’s plenty to do and everyone is friendly. And besides, if you do it over winter you will probably see the northern lights. I appreciated how Hurtigruten docks their ships on Christmas Eve so the crew and passengers can attend church. The other nice thing was all the passengers were told the crew would not be available for a few hours on Christmas Eve so that they could enjoy dinner together. I don’t know that I would want to spend Christmas Eve and Christmas in a hotel because everything would be closed. I have no problems being onboard ship even if all I do is watch the beautiful scenery pass by.

Annabel adds, “I flew to Norway to board the Hurtigruten coastal ferry (MS Lofoten) for a cruise up and down the west coast of Norway. Things didn't go according to plan due to high seas, but departure delays, cancelled excursions, etc. were not holiday dampers. I went to see the Northern Lights and I saw them and had an incredible experience and met some really amazing people.”

Seville  is the Christmas solo travel destination recommended by Sarah. “I went last year and loved it. So tapas Christmas for us!”

Barcelona is recommended by Amanda. “Barcelona was brilliant at Christmas. They don't make a big fuss and the local shops and the eateries remain open. I stayed in a lovely little B&B whose breakfast was enough to keep me going all day. The weather was mild and the sights not too crowded. It was my best solo Christmas ever!”

Vienna, Austria  is   recommended by   Grace. “I would definitely recommend Vienna as a Christmas destination. Aside from being solo-friendly with a phenomenally efficient and navigable transport system, the whole city has a wonderful traditional Christmas feel to it, especially after dark when the light displays come into their own! Throw in the smell of mulled wine and gingerbread, and you've got yourself a magical Christmas experience.”

Christmas Travel in the Middle East

Jordan is   the Christmas solo travel destination recommended by   Catherine. “It's my favorite country and I had a fantastic tour there over Christmas a couple of years ago. There is so much to see and do, the food is amazing, the people are friendly, and Petra is absolutely fantastic. Sadly, due to the situation in the Middle East, tourist numbers have dropped drastically but I understand it's still perfectly safe. You may even get Petra almost to yourself.”

A Solo Christmas in Oceania

“I spent the holidays in Australia one year and New Zealand another,” says Meaghan. “If you are looking to escape the cold weather, those destinations are perfect during December!”

Alice Springs to Darwin by train is recommended by Joanne. “I did the Ghan train trip on Christmas from Alice Springs to Darwin-but it does go from Adelaide then to Alice Springs and up to Darwin.” To get a feel for this iconic train trip, read Solo Aboard the Ghan .

Melbourne is recommended by Sarah. “I went to Melbourne one year. It was awesome. I flew from Brisbane on Christmas Day, spent 6 days in my favorite Aussie city just wandering the streets and catching up with some friends down there. It was the longest I'd ever spent there and I went with no plans in mind.”

Sydney is recommended by Les for Christmas/New Year's. “The weather is a little different there that time of year than it is in the Upper Midwest.”

New Zealand is recommended by the bloggers at Indie Travel Podcast. “I'd have to recommend New Zealand for Christmas, it's summer and lovely! If you're traveling solo, you could hop on the Stray Backpacker bus for an instant group of friends but with the flexibility to hop on and hop off when you like.”

Will You Feel Lonely Being Alone for the Holidays?

It's a common and perfectly valid question: putting aside how wonderful all of these solo travel destinations for Christmas are, will you feel lonely traveling during the festive season?

Readers weigh in.

Emily  “At Christmas two years ago, I was pretty terrified about it and really not looking forward to spending Christmas alone–but it was awesome! Those Nordic countries really know how to keep Christmas festive!”

Panache  “Once you realize how peaceful and interesting it is to spend time with yourself, you are ready to go, no matter what the season, festive or not. I feel totally blessed.”

Catherine  “I never feel lonely traveling over Christmas but then I started doing it to escape my family! Maybe you'd feel less that way by doing a group tour. I've met some amazing people doing that who have become firm friends.”

Sherryl  “As a single, childless adult with family in far flung places in the world, it became quite normal to go off by myself on a diving vacation almost every year. I quite enjoy it and often pick out something spectacular to do on the 25th.”

Jill  “Traveling means being alone and not being judged and compared to others.”

Have a read of this post for more: How to Travel Alone Without Being Lonely: 10 Tips and 6 Short Stories .

The final word on solo travel destinations for Christmas goes to Carrolyn, who, after spending holiday seasons in China and New York, says, “ I think you can find the Christmas spirit nearly everywhere you travel. “

While you're contemplating solo travel destinations for the holidays, don't forget to browse our Tours Especially for Solo Travelers  page or narrow your search on our Trips for Solo Travelers page for no or very low single supplement options or click here to receive our new list by email each month.

One last thing: don't forget your travel insurance! The last think you want is to start 2024 with a hefty bill because you slipped on the ice or fell by the pool. Here's what you need to know: A Complete Guide to Travel Insurance for Solo Travelers .

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Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

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• Tailor Made

Solo Holidays And Tours

Solo travel group tours & holidays.

Explore Croatia - 8 Days

• Dubrovnik to Split
• Age range: 15 - 99
• Group size: 12

Explore Jordan - 8 Days

• Amman to Madaba
• Group size: 14

Explore Colombia - 10 Days

• Cartagena to Bogotá

Explore Vietnam - 11 Days

• Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
• Group size: 16

Explore Egypt - 15 Days

• Cairo to Cairo

• Amman to Amman
• Age range: 12 - 100

Explore Taiwan - 11 Days

• Taipei to Taipei

Explore China - 12 Days

• Shanghai to Beijing

Speak To Our Team

Call or email our expert team to find out more and help with ideas and planning.

Solo Traveller Holidays

Over half of our customers travel on their own and almost all our tours are geared up for solo travellers and solo adventure holidays. There are no better getaways than adventure holidays for singles and solo travellers

We have thousands of epic adventures that are perfect for solo travellers, including exploring Vietnam, kayaking through Croatia and trekking the Inca Trail. There’s no need to worry about convincing a friend to join you, you can head off and explore the world with The Adventure People instead! 

Hassle-free adventures

Our aim is to make it as easy and enjoyable as possible to experience unique trips at the best price, no matter if you travel on your own or as part of a group. You will be able to socialise, meet new people but also have some time to yourself throughout the holiday.  

Accommodation made easy

We try to make this part as simple as possible. You will be paired with another traveller of the same sex to share a room during your adventures so you won’t have to pay anything extra. If you prefer your own room you can pay a little extra (we work hard to keep this as little we can) which we can arrange after making your booking, just let us know. 

Authentic and affordable trips

We try to work with as many local providers as possible. It means we can offer you the biggest range of adventures and it enables you to see countries in a more unique and authentic way. Plus, we can keep the cost of the trip down by cutting out the middle man! 

We work hard with our suppliers to minimize extra costs like single room supplements for solo travellers.

Like-minded travellers

Most trips are guided in small groups, usually made up of between 10 and 15 people. In these groups, half or more will be fellow solo travellers. You get to meet like-minded people who all have the same sense of adventure and thirst for exploring. You'll have a local tour leader to look after all of the group’s needs and logistics and ensure you have the best experience while you are away.

Independent travel

If you like to travel a bit more independently, we have a selection of tours that are self-guided. We will equip you with all the things you may need for your adventure and you can explore at your own pace. Again, we try to keep any single supplements as low as possible by working closely with our local partners.  

Adventure Holidays For Singles

If you're single this type of holiday is fantastic, we would say that but they really are. We have loads of trips for different age ranges and interests. The small group adventures offer a social holiday for singles which provide an immediate group (or squad) to explore with. You'll certainly make friends for life. 

How does room-sharing work?

If you are happy to share, the rooms will be allocated based on gender and age. So, you'd be paired with someone of the same gender and as close to your age as possible.

Now, you might be thinking, 'suppose I don't like my roomie?'. Well, although very rare, this does of course happen. This is a good example of why having a guide is a good idea. If you let your guide know they'll be able to find a solution which works and you can enjoy your holiday. We must stress, this situation is very rare!

If you would prefer your own room then in many cases you can pay a little extra during the checkout process to secure on your booking. Alternatively, we can request your own room from the operator and we try to keep the cost as low as possible for you.

What is the age of other travellers?

This can vary hugely depending on the trip. Take a look on our website for the age range of the tours you are interested in, some providers specialise in particular age groups and that will be listed here. Remember you can also ask our experts.

In general terms though the average age is around 39. However, we have some adventures with an age limit of 18-29 and the average age here is 24. Other adventures have an age range from 18-39 and the average age here is around 30. Then to consider are the tours themselves, some adventure tours just appeal more to a younger or older demographic.

We can always find out the mix of people booked onto any tour.

How social is it?

Most tours have a good mix of time as a group and time alone. In the evenings, for example, you may have dinner all together but you can choose not to join if you prefer to do your own thing. There will also be free time built into the itinerary for you to explore independently.  

You can make the holiday as sociable as you like and the choice is really yours.

Can I get my own room?

Yes, on most adventures you're able to pay a little extra for your own room.

Are other solo travellers on the trips?

Yes, typically each group is made up of around 50% solo travellers and the rest a mix of friends and couples.

How many people are in each group?

Groups sizes range from 1 or 2 up to typically 16 as a maximum but check the adventure details to be sure.

Solo Female Travel & Holidays

Small group travel is a great way not only to get to enjoy a holiday but to explore, meet others and have a great time. For anyone, safety in numbers is a good thing as is the back up of a good guide! We have quite a lot of people book with us for whom it is their first time travelling alone. 65% are people who book with us are female by the way!

To find out more about our tours and holidays please do speak to our team who can give far more information than you can find here!

We have some tours that are for females only and they are becoming more popular. These get booked up very quickly so best to plan ahead and speak to our team about what is available depending on when and where you are headed. 

Ask our Experts

If you have questions or are feeling unsure about travelling on your own we recommend speaking to our travel team in London. Our experts have all travelled on their own throughout the world so understand the challenges and apprehension you may have about booking a solo trip.

They can give you lots of information about the best tours for solo travellers, different destination ideas, suggest when to travel and share their tips and advice for travelling solo. 

We know that it can feel intimidating travelling solo, especially for the first time. Take look at this blog post where we answer some of our customers most commonly asked questions.  

Why book with The Adventure People?

You may be thinking ‘why should I book with The Adventure People?’. Here are just some of the reasons we stand out:

The Best Value

Not only are our prices usually the best in the market but our leading service coupled with the financial protections we offer mean you won’t find better value anywhere else.

Your Dedicated Travel Expert

Our travel team is the best in the business and we’re not just saying that. The moment you make an enquiry we’ll pair you with your own dedicated expert who is on hand to answer your questions, look after your booking and make sure you have a fantastic time.

No Waiting Times

We only have one phone number with no automated services. When you contact us you’re straight through to a member of our team and a human! 

Financial Protection

We are ATOL certified, members of ABTA and run a Trust account for our packages ensuring you’re fully financially protected. 

Flexible Payments

We offer low deposits and monthly payment plans at no extra cost. 

We can add flights to any trip you book with us and we’re happy to help with Round The World tickets!

Accommodation

We work with wonderful accommodation providers and our team can quote almost any hotel in the world at the best prices.

Transfers & Extras

We can easily add airport transfers or extras to any booking. Our team will always quote the best possible price and be able to update your booking.

What Our Customers Say

Trust the adventure people.

Communication was excellent both by email and over the phone, everyone I had contacted followed and actioned my request or answered my question politely and efficiently.

Would definitely recommend this company.

The staff are super helpful and friendly and always answer e-mails as soon as they can.

Trip achieved all my expectations!

The tour that I booked with The Adventure People met all my expectations. The local agent in Vietnam kept in regular contact with me during my trip. All of the connections worked perfectly. The hotels were all of a good standard and comfortable as well as being in a good location. Would definitely use them again

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The Adventure People has been rated excellent by its customers

Solo Tours For Single Travellers

Solo holidays with wild frontiers.

Wild Frontiers’ holidays are ideally suited to solo travellers – you get all of the excitement of discovering new places combined with the security of travelling with an organised group, with like minded people.

Over 70% of passengers on our small group tours are solo adventurers. Unlike many tour operators, we don’t believe in charging solo travellers a premium, so if you are happy to share a room with a fellow traveller of the same sex, you will pay exactly the same as a couple. Occasionally you may even end up with your own room. You can travel as a single traveller on any of our holidays, from our escorted tours to our walking holiday.

Having been a bit apprehensive about joining a group as a single traveller, I found myself surrounded by interesting, friendly, helpful people who I hope to catch up with again on future trips.

OUR POPULAR SOLO TOURS

Our solo travel guide.

WHY TRAVEL WITH WILD FRONTIERS

Personal service & expertise.

Our office is manned by experienced tour leaders and travel consultants and every trip we run stems from their first-hand knowledge.

SMALL GROUP SIZES

We believe it is imperative to keep the group sizes small. While our average group size is 9 and most of our trips have a maximum group size of 12.

AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES

Our unique, original itineraries allow you to take journeys that venture beneath the surface of the region.

We believe in an honest, upfront pricing structure so you know exactly what the tour will cost before you book. Our tours are provided on a predominantly full board basis, with drinking water, government permits, entrance fees and transport all included.

OUR ACCOMMODATION

On all of our holidays we aim to provide you with the best accommodation available. By "best" we do not necessarily mean most expensive but notably interesting, characterful and convenient.

YOUR TRANSPORT

Your transport is also an important part of your holiday experience and we offer a wide variety of transport options depending on the destination.

faqs for Solo travellers

When i travel solo, do i have to pay more.

There is no additional cost for single travellers on our tours if you share a room with another traveller of the same sex, with whom we can pair you up. If you would prefer your own room, then you will need to pay a single supplement, which varies depending on the tour.

Is there free time on a Wild Frontiers tour?

The majority of our tours include some free time built in. You can see how much free time is included by looking at the day-to-day itinerary but as a general rule we include almost all meals meaning that solo travellers will always have company when dining. 

How big are group sizes on Wild Frontiers tours?

The average Wild Frontiers group size on our solo holidays is between 9 and 12 clients. In our experience this is a perfect size, as the group is not too intimidating to locals, and it allows for those unplanned moments, like being invited into someone’s home for tea, or to share a picnic. It also means there are plenty of interesting, like-minded people to talk to over dinner. It is not unusual for more than half of the people in each group to be travelling solo. 

How does the rooming work on a solo traveller holiday?

In our tour price, unless otherwise stated you are guaranteed a bed in a twin room, which you will share with another person in your group of the same sex. However you can choose to pay a single supplement if you prefer a room of your own. This option is available on most of our tours and is usually available for all nights. If there are any nights of the tour where we cannot offer a single supplement (usually due to a limited number of rooms being available), this will be clearly detailed in the ‘Travelling Solo and Single Supplements’ section. The single supplement cost varies from trip to trip. 

Can I travel solo even if I’m not single?

There are many reasons why people travel solo with us and it’s absolutely not just because they're single. Regardless of whether your partner is able to travel with you or not, you are still in good company. 

As a female travelling solo, will I be safe on this trip?

Yes, the safety of our customers is our number one priority. Travelling with a group is a reassuring sure way to stay safe and you will have a tour-leader with you throughout who will look out for the whole group. In fact, many women choose to travel with us on our small group tours for precisely the added confidence that this way of travelling brings.

Ready For Your Adventure?

Extra inspiration.

ABOUT WILD FRONTIERS

THE BEST PLACES FOR SOLO TRAVEL

GROUP TOURS FOR SOLO TRAVELERS

Arrive solo, travel together. 

Visit incredible UK landmarks and explore the best of Europe with other Manchester-based solo travellers.

Solo Breaks travellers join us from all walks of life, but there’s one thing we all have in common – a love for adventures. We make most of the good times, rather than being a slave to an itinerary. Your tour guide take care of all the planning, so you can concentrate on enjoying the experience!

Do you fancy a city break, walking holiday or a long weekend away? Our short trips allow you to tick off those bucket-list destinations and make life-long friends along the way. 

Enjoy the company of a great bunch of people with the same sense of adventure and create lasting friendships. Typically, our groups are based in Greater Manchester and are between the ages of 30-50.

We take care of everything for you, so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Your host, Steve, is on hand to answer any questions you have and organise an unforgettable holiday.

See what its like travelling with Solo Breaks

Tired of compromising on your travel dreams because no one is available to go with you?

What to expect

• Travel with 5-10 companions, typically in their 30’s-50’s.
• We select some of the UKs most popular hotels which all rate highly on TripAdvisor
• A unique trip every time with an itinerary packed with sightseeing opportunities and activities in the day. Together we’ll visit popular landmarks and hidden gems and in the evening we usually go out for dinner and drinks. You can join everything or opt to do your own thing.
• Before we travel, we’ll have an ice-breaker on Zoom so you can get to know the team. A couple of days before we leave, you’ll be invited to join a WhatsApp group so you can chat with fellow travellers.
• Your Tour Guide will take care of all of the arrangements, leaving you to prioritise fun and adventure
• Every Solo Breaks trip will be an adventure to remember with fellow solo travellers who become lifelong friends.

Where will your next adventure take you?

Check out some of our previous adventures:.

Edinburgh Fringe Festival - waitlist

Experience the legendary celebration of arts and culture with like-minded travellers., edinburgh fringe festival.

Windermere Activity Weekender

Explore the bustling town of windermere with a likeminded bunch of adventurous travellers..

Northumberland Culture & Spa Break

Enjoy spectacular views, outdoor activities, a luxury spa and golf courses with your newfound travelling buddies..

Anglesey Seaside & Sightseeing Break

Experience this beautiful welsh island and immerse yourself in its captivating history alongside friendly solo explorers..

Lake District Countryside Break

Soak up the scenic views of keswick and take in that fresh countryside air..

St Ives 5 Day Beach & Sightseeing Break

Take a break from the same old routine and escape to the stunning cornwall coast with likeminded solo travellers..

Snowdonia Walking Weekend

Enjoy guided hikes in the mountains and hills of snowdonia’s national park, visit neighbouring villages and soak up historical sights., snowdonia summer walking weekend, snowdon summit sunrise adventure, make new friends on this weekend escape to wales - the perfect blend of adventure and tranquillity..

Cotswolds Spa Retreat with meals

Explore honey-coloured villages and magnificent english countryside with likeminded solo travellers..

National 3 Peaks Challenge All Inclusive Weekend

Make new friends as you dare yourself to climb the three highest peaks of scotland, england and wales..

Culture and world-changing Discoveries in Cambridge

Join a great group of travellers on this beautifully historic trip to cambridge..

Stratford-upon-Avon with meals & cocktails

Escape for the night to a stylish, luxury manor in shakespeare's famous birthplace., 7 lessons for solo travellers.

We have compiled a free guide: ‘7 Lessons For First-Time Solo Travellers. To get you free copy, simply fill in your name and email address below.

Who will I be travelling with?

Mostly Manchester-based independent explorers who want to travel in the comfort of a group and make new friends along the way.

Whether it’s your first Solo Breaks trip, or you’ve travelled with us before, everyone is made to feel welcome.

Typically, our groups are made up of people between the ages of 30-50.

One of the best things about booking a trip through Solo Breaks is that you get to meet people from all  walks of life. However, there’s one thing we all have in common – a love for travel and adventures.

Meet your host, Steve

Hi, I’m Steve.

After spending five years travelling the world, and over a decade organising trips across the UK and Europe, I found the biggest fear around travel was going alone. Booking a group tour with people you don’t know can also feel daunting and so that’s why at Solo Breaks, we organise small group trips so everyone can get to know each other and form life-long friendships.

As your host, I’ll be there on every trip to take care of the travel logistics, answer any of your questions, and most importantly, make sure you have an unforgettable experience! 

Have questions? Find answers

It’s important for all travellers to arrange their own travel insurance before we set-off. If you need help with travel insurance, give Steve a call and he will advise. 

Cancellation requests are only accepted by email . For further information on our cancellation policy, read our full terms and conditions .

Be the first to hear about new Solo Breaks trips and adventures

Ready to book your trip, get in touch.

Please fill in the form below for a quick response.

  07845 529538

[email protected]     

Solo Breaks Altrincham Manchester WA14 5HA

SoloBreaks.co.uk is a sister company of Social Circle ( social-circle.co.uk )

© SoloBreaks.co.uk 2024

Thanks for your interest in our ‘7 Lessons For Solo Travellers’

Please check your email inbox, and make sure that you can receive emails from [email protected]

Happy Travels Steve Solo Breaks

We have compiled a free guide: ‘7 Lessons For First-Time Solo Travellers. To get you free copy, simply fill in your name and email address below. 

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Put yourself first: the top 15 solo trips in the UK

T here’s something wonderfully liberating about travelling alone and the following trips fulfil all the best aspects of being solo. No compromises to be made, no itineraries discussed; get up when you want, eat what you fancy, do nothing or everything, talk to the friendly person next to you at breakfast, or pop in your headphones and ignore them completely. When I’m travelling alone, I become the best version of myself; the most decisive, the most charming, the most curious. I see more, go further, strike up conversations with people I’ll never meet again, yet always remember. And even after 25 years of travelling, I still get the same feeling of satisfaction when I’m home – a quiet sense of pleasure that I did it all on my own.

1. Brixham, Devon

The Berryhead Hotel – surrounded by six acres of gardens with lovely views across Torbay – is a rare find: a hotel with single rooms that are actually half the price of doubles ( from £88 B&B, berryheadhotel.com ). It’s an easy walk into picturesque Brixham, where the town’s fishing fleet fuels a clutch of excellent restaurants; pull up a seat at the counter at Simply Fish, a family-owned restaurant where diners pick their choice of seafood from the fresh fish counter ( simplyfishrestaurant.co.uk ).

2. Wells-next-the-sea, Norfolk

Vast skies, tranquil beaches and a delightfully slow pace; the Norfolk coast is a great choice for a solo trip. Book a Cosy Room at the charming Crown Hotel ( from £180 B&B, crownhotelnorfolk.co.uk ), where a complimentary cream tea is the perfect excuse for a lazy afternoon with a book in the comfortable lounge. On a non-cream tea day, book one of the 11 tables at the Wells Crab House, where the friendly team serve delicious seafood, including single oysters and taster portions of everything from crayfish tails to cockles and rollmops ( wellscrabhouse.co.uk ).

3. Camber Sands, East Sussex

Morning yoga classes come free at the lovely Gallivant ( from £215, thegallivant.co.uk ) – a great way to meet fellow guests – along with a weekly programme of classes, encompassing everything from wine-tasting to garden tours. Combine sociability with solo walks along the great swathe of sandy beach at Camber Sands and pop up to the historic town of Rye for supper at the Fig ( thefigrye.com ), with super-friendly staff and a menu of Ottolenghi-esque small plates.

4. Tenby, South Wales

Pack walking boots for a stay in Tenby, where the Pembrokeshire Coast Path leads out on to spectacular clifftop scenery, with the town itself – famous for its picturesque harbour with pastel-hued houses – a lovely friendly spot to return to and ideal for a solo foray. Stay at Trefloyne Manor ( trefloyne.com ), five minutes’ drive out of town and pop in for a spa treatment at the cute Dovecote spa. Pull up a bar stool at Twelve ( twelvetenby.co.uk ), where the friendly bar staff can advise on the ideal glass to match a trio of tapas-style plates – the perfect amount for one.

5. Bude, Cornwall

Get chatting to locals with a kayaking, paddleboarding or surfing class with Free Wave Surf Academy ( freewavesurfacademy.co.uk ), or mix solo strolls along Summerleaze Beach with a dip into the town’s artisan market (Wednesday to Saturday, 10am-3pm). Settle in for a supper of small plates ideally suited for one at Temple (the roof terrace, overlooking Summerleaze, is a dream on warm evenings) and stay at the Beach at Bude ( from £195 B&B, thebeachatbude.co.uk ), a charming Victorian house with rooms decked out in a New England seaside style – with self-catering apartments also available.

6. Buxton, Derbyshire

Fancy a solo spa treat, but don’t want to be marooned in a secluded hotel? The Buxton Crescent Spa ( from £193 B&B, ensanahotels.com ) lies at the heart of the Peak District’s most vibrant town, combining thermal pools – including on the rooftop – with a wide programme of treatments. Beyond the hotel, Buxton is an easily navigable, friendly place; spend an hour browsing the 40,000 secondhand titles in Scrivener’s Books ( scrivenersbooks.co.uk ) before lunch at Noonology, where hearty brunch dishes sit alongside vegan poke bowls and pleasingly indulgent cocktails ( noonology.co.uk ).

7. Hay-on-Wye, Powys

Bookish Hay is ideal for solo travellers; bookshops come with armchairs and assistants who are happy to chat and recommend, there are great walks from the centre of town, and the Granary ( thegranaryhay.co.uk ) is a convivial place for lunch, offering homemade pies, veggie dishes and inventive salads (strawberry and goat’s cheese is particularly good). Atelier Hay is a tranquil bolthole above an art gallery ( from £170, three-night minimum, atelierhay.co.uk ) and if you run out of something to read, the 24-hour open-air Hay Castle Honesty Bookshop ensures you never go to bed without a good book.

8. Ludlow, Shropshire

Surrounded by the rolling hills, Ludlow’s high street is dotted with boutiques, delicatessens and cafés – perfect for a spot of people-watching. A walk along the River Teme gives wonderful views of Ludlow Castle; finish up at the Green Café ( thegreencafe.co.uk ) where small plates of broccoli with melting cheese and orange spice or Ludlow farm steak with green harissa mean you can try two or three dishes without feeling you’ve over ordered. The Cliffe at Dinham ( from £120 B&B, thecliffeatdinham.co.uk ) is a charming restaurant with rooms, 10 minutes’ walk from the centre.

9. Keswick, Cumbria

Who says shepherd’s huts are only for couples? The Mount B&B has a beautiful hut for singles only ( three-night break £240 B&B, themountkeswick.co.uk ), with a woodburning stove and lovely garden views, with the chance to join other guests for breakfasts around the communal dining table in the main house. This is serious walking country, with footpaths from the front door; reward yourself with Mexican-inspired tapas at Es Bar ( esbarltd.co.uk ), with bar seating, dogs welcome and a breezy, chatty atmosphere.

10. Lavenham, Suffolk

The most picturesque of Suffolk’s historic wool towns, Lavenham has a slow-paced arty feel, with a number of art galleries and boutiques that offer an excellent afternoon’s browsing. Number Ten Wine Bar & Kitchen ( ten-lavenham.co.uk ) is a convivial place for lunch or supper, with giant barrels providing great tables for one, while the Swan at Lavenham has a cocoon-like warmth, with cosy bedrooms beneath original 15th-century beams ( Lavenham rooms are ideal for singles, from £171 room-only, theswanatlavenham.co.uk ), and a boutique spa. Dogs are welcome at both places.

11. Canterbury

Set within the Cathedral grounds, the Canterbury Cathedral Lodge is a unique place to stay, with single, en suite rooms ( from £92 B&B, canterburycathedrallodge.org ), with views straight across to the 1,400-year-old church. The rate includes free entry to the cathedral (usually £15), with the city’s historic streets just outside the door. Don’t miss lunch (or just a shopping spree) at the Goods Shed, a daily farmer’s market and restaurant, serving produce from each of the stalls; two starters (maybe octopus, clams and ’nduja or cheddar and truffle beignets) make a perfect meal for one ( thegoodsshed.co.uk ).

Perfect for a solo jaunt, Citizen M has four breezily hip outposts, where the pod-sized rooms are ideal for one ( from £155, citizenm.com ), and the open-plan bar/lounge/restaurant downstairs is a comfortable place to hang out. Borough Market has a great range of places that offer counter dining; Arabica ( arabicalondon.com ) offers lip-smacking Middle Eastern small plates and super-friendly staff, while Wright Brothers ( thewrightbrothers.co.uk ) is so compact it’s almost rude not to start chatting to the person next to you.

With an easily walkable historic centre, boasting both York Minster and a picturesque tangle of pedestrianised streets, York is ideal for a solo weekend break. Book a counter seat at Skosh ( skoshyork.co.uk ), to watch small plates of Orkney crab papads, paratha with whipped aubergine brinjal and Peruvian chocolate tart roll out, and stay at No 1 Guesthouse ( from £138 room-only, guesthousehotels.co.uk ), where the well-stocked pantry means there’s always something to nibble on if you fancy a break from eating alone.

14. Edinburgh

Plan a packed itinerary for a trip to Edinburgh with the Kimpton’s Stay Human concierge, which offers a variety of curated experiences – from city walking tours to coffee tasting or personal shopping – all bookable before you arrive. Book a City Single ( from £252, ihg.com ) and spend an evening at Eleanore, where high stools at communal tables encourage chat between locals and visitors, and the pared-down menu of artfully presented dishes is ideal for a solo dinner ( eleanore.uk ).

15. Bristol

Buzzy and bohemian, Bristol combines West Country warmth with a hip urban feel and a clutch of excellent galleries – from contemporary artworks at the Arnolfini to more than 70 artists, makers and designers at Spike Island ( spikeisland.org.uk ). Book a Broom Cupboard or Shoe Box at the hip Artist’s Residence (from £185, artistresidence.co.uk ) – small rooms with striking artworks that are perfect for one – and bag a seat at the bar at Marmo ( marmo.restaurant ) for their excellent value set lunch (two/three courses £22/25) or a dinner of Italian small plates.

Book yourself into a retreat that’s perfect for pampering solo guests

1. homefield grange, northamptonshire.

Offering tailor-made programmes for everything from weight loss to detox or simple rest and rejuvenation, Homefield Grange offers the chance to restore internal balance with a focus on self-care ( homefieldgrangeretreat.co.uk ).

2. The Glasshouse, Essex

The UK’s first purpose-built wellness retreat, The Glasshouse in Bulphan, Essex, offers a daily programme of wellness activities – from hiking and mindfulness to plant-based cooking – set in seven acres of countryside ( glasshouseretreat.co.uk ).

3. Gaia House, Devon

For those looking for a more spiritual retreat, Gaia offers silent meditation retreats from various Buddhist traditions, led by experienced Dharma teachers. Group retreats last from two to 10 days ( gaiahouse.co.uk ).

4. Glen Dye, Aberdeenshire

Making the most of the spectacular surroundings, Glen Dye offers a wellness programme of foraging walks, forest bathing, wild swimming and Vinyasa yoga, with breathing workshops and a wood-fired sauna to relax in ( glendyecabinsandcottages.com ).

5. The Detox Barn, Suffolk

Book a weekend retreat, courtesy of the dynamic Gavin sisters, who offer yoga classes, guided walks and meditation, vegan suppers and an “intention- setting” session around an open fire ( gavinsisters.co.uk ).

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Best Places For Solo Travel in India

Amazing places for solo trip in india, here is the list of 21 best places for solo travel in india, 1. hampi, karnataka - the abode of bygone ruins, rusty colors and fascinating landscape.

Known For : Virupaksha Temple, Hampi Vithala Temple Lotus Palace

A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka, Hampi boasts over 500 historic monuments set against a stunning backdrop of hills and the Tungabhadra river. Once the heart of the Vijayanagara empire, it encompasses temples, royal centers, and quarters of Muslim officers. Accessible via Hospet by train or Hubli by air, it's best visited in winter; with a variety of accommodations ranging from guest houses to luxury hotels, a 2-3 day stay is recommended to fully experience Hampi.

Best Time: October to March

31 Hampi Attractions

2. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh

Known For : Manikaran Sahib Nature Park Kasol Cafes in Kasol

Often called the 'Goa of the Hills', Kasol is a trekkers' haven and a hippie hotspot nestled beside the trout-rich Parvati River thats ideal for fishing and rafting. Accessible by bus and train, the best time to visit is from March to May. Offering various accommodations, visitors can plan a two-day trip: one for trekking and another for relaxation.

Best Time: October to June

28 Kasol Attractions

3. Pondicherry - The French Riviera of the East

Known For : Paradise Beach, Pondicherry Aurobindo Ashram Auroville

Experience a slice of France in Puducherry, known for its French-inspired architecture and cuisine. Enjoy a scenic drive from Chennai, explore the town, and reconnect spiritually at Auroville temple. Best visited between October and February, plan a 3-4 day stay in a colonial-style hotel.

48 Pondicherry Attractions

4. Varkala, Kerala - The hidden treasure of Kerala

Known For : Varkala Cliff Water Sports in Varkala Varkala Beach

Perched on a tranquil cliff by the Arabian Sea, Varkala in Kerala boasts attractions like Ponnumthuruthu Island and the serene Papasnanam Beach. Enjoy relaxing beach days, rejuvenate with famed Ayurvedic treatments, and explore the captivating Kapil Lake and temples. Easily accessible via Varkala station or Trivandrum Airport, it's an ideal escape from December to March, with 3-4 days perfect for delving into its wonders.

Best Time: October to February

26 Varkala Attractions

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Srinagar Package for 5 Nights with Sonamarg Excursion

Manali volvo tour package - excursion to solang valley, leh ladakh summer holiday package with nubra & pangong stay, darjeeling tour package for family: gangtok & kalimpong, sikkim tour package for 7 days - excursion to tsomgo lake, andaman island trip package, 5. gokarna, karnataka - land of palm trees, blue seas and golden sands.

Known For : Om Beach Mahabaleshwara Temple Paradise Beach, Gokarna

For an unforgettable beach experience, head to Gokarna. Beyond its temple town essence, it boasts vibrant beaches and lively bonfire nights. Visit between October and March, accessible by bus or train, with Dabolim in Goa as the nearest airport. Embrace the backpacker life with a 4-5 day stay in cozy cottages, unwinding on hammocks.

Best Time: Throughout the year

20 Gokarna Attractions

6. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand - Yoga Capital of the World

Known For : Rafting in Rishikesh Lakshman Jhula Triveni Ghat

Nestled in the Himalayan foothills where the Ganga meets the Chandrabhaga, Rishikesh boasts thrilling adventures, ancient temples, vibrant cafes, and its title as the "Yoga Capital of the World." Easily accessible from Delhi and Dehradun, this dynamic city caters to varied interests. Stay in one of its many hostels for a 2-3 day immersive experience.

53 Rishikesh Attractions

7. Udaipur, Rajasthan - The city of Lakes

Known For : City Palace, Udaipur Lake Pichola Sajjangarh Palace

Nestled amidst the Aravalli Hills, Udaipur, the City of Lakes, gleams as Rajasthan's crown jewel. Often called the 'Venice of the East', its captivating temples, architecture, and a serene boat ride on Lake Pichola showcase its splendor. Easily accessible via the Maharana Pratap Airport or a scenic drive from cities like Ahmedabad, this enchanting city is ideal for a weekend escape, with quaint hostels and regal havelis enhancing the experience.

43 Udaipur Attractions

8. Pushkar, Rajasthan

Known For : Pushkar Lake Brahma Temple Savitri Temple

Pushkar, nestled in the Aravali ranges, is renowned for the unique Brahma temple and its vibrant street markets. Whether it's sipping chai by the ghats, exploring colorful alley shops, or soaking in the spiritual ambiance, Pushkar offers an enriching experience. Easily accessible from Ajmer and Jaipur, this pilgrimage hub is perfect for a 2-3 day stay in its welcoming hostels.

27 Pushkar Attractions

9. Shillong, Meghalaya - Scotland of the East

Known For : Umiam Lake Elephant Falls Laitlum Canyons

Shillong, Meghalaya's capital, often dubbed the 'Scotland of the East', is a refreshing retreat with its pine-clad landscapes and serene ambiance. Revered for its Lei Shyllong idol and pleasant climate, its charm is amplified by gentle drizzles. Easily reachable from Guwahati, this picturesque haven is perfect for a 3-day stay in cozy homestays or boutique hotels.

Best Time: September to May

33 Shillong Attractions

10. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh

Known For : Tarin Fish Farm Kile Pakho Ziro Music Festival

With zero reasons to skip, Ziro Valley in Arunachal Pradesh promises an invigorating escape with its lush pine groves and vibrant orchids. Dive into the rejuvenating mountain air, take on the Dolo Mando trek, or get enchanted at the Ziro Music Festival. Easily accessible from Tezpur, this scenic destination is a must-visit from February to October, with a suggested four-day stay to fully embrace its beauty.

Best Time: September - November ; March - May

9 Ziro Attractions

11. Jaipur, Rajasthan - The Pink City

Known For : Amer Fort Jantar Mantar Jaipur Hawa Mahal

Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is a splendid blend of ancient and modern, forming a corner of the famed Golden Triangle with Delhi and Agra. A former realm of Rajput kingdoms, it's a top spot for female travelers. Conveniently linked by rail and air, spend 2-3 days in Jaipur, choosing from a rich array of accommodation, from backpacker hostels to luxury hotels.

67 Jaipur Attractions

12. Manali, Himachal Pradesh - Lover's Paradise - India's Honeymoon capital

Known For : Hidimba Temple Solang Valley Manu Temple

Manali, a harmonious blend of antiquity and modernity, is set amidst pine forests with a rushing river, feeling like a slice of a storybook world. It's a gateway to Spiti and Leh, and February visitors can witness the grandeur of the Tibetan New Year's Lossar Festival. Whether you're drawn to temples, hot springs, monasteries, or German bakeries, Manali has it all. Accessible by flight to Bhuntar or scenic roadways, plan a 5-6 day stay, choosing from a variety of accommodations.

51 Manali Attractions

13. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh - The Spiritual Capital of India

Known For : Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti, Varanasi

Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Benaras, stands as a spiritual beacon for Hindus. Beyond its famed silk, the city's ghats and temples pulse with history, and its open-air rituals aren't for the faint-hearted. Best visited from October to March, it's accessible by flight, with accommodations ranging from riverbank budget hotels to backpacker's hostels; a three-day stay lets you fully experience its depth.

42 Varanasi Attractions

14. Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu

Known For : Shore Temple Mahabalipuram Beach Five Rathas

Just two hours from Chennai, Mahabalipuram is a World Heritage Site boasting ancient rock-cut temples and rich Pallava Kingdom history. While the temples attract many, the town's craftsmen keep the age-old tradition of stone-carving alive. Whether exploring on foot or by bicycle, a day or two suffices, but combining it with a longer trip to Chennai and Pudducherry is also popular.

Best Time: November to February

23 Mahabalipuram Attractions

15. Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh - The little Lhasa in India

Known For : Dalai Lama Temple St. John in the Wilderness Church Dharamshala Cricket Stadium

Dharamsala, home to the grandest Tibetan temple outside Tibet and the Dalai Lama's monastery, beckons travelers with its upper part, McLeodganj. A short trek connects Bir to Biling, world-renowned for paragliding, while Kareri lake offers another picturesque trek. Accessible by flight, or more scenically by bus or train, Dharamsala promises affordable stays, especially between March and October. Spend a weekend here or extend your trip with nearby Dalhousie or McLeodganj.

38 Dharamsala Attractions

16. Kovalam, Kerala - Beaches, Ayurveda and Shopping

Known For : Kovalam Beach Vizhinjam Lighthouse Aazhimala Shiva Temple

Kovalam is an idyllic coastal town located around 13 km from Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. Famous for its three adjacent crescent-shaped shallow water and low tidal beaches, Kovalam is dotted with resorts and ayurvedic massage centres. Easily accessible via Trivandrum's airport and railway, it offers a range of homestays and beach resorts for a 2-3 day rejuvenating escape.

Best Time: September to March

33 Kovalam Attractions

17. Goa - Beaches, Sunsets and Crazy Nights

Known For : Calangute Beach Fort Aguada Cruise in Goa

On India's west coast, Goa, a small state with Portuguese roots, beckons with stunning beaches, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. Easily reachable by air, rail, or road, including buses from cities like Mumbai. For the full experience, stay at its diverse accommodations, from hostels to beach resorts, for at least 4 days.

197 Goa Attractions

18. Nainital, Uttarakhand - Misty lakes and mountains

Known For : Naini Lake Snow View Point Mall Road Nainital

Nestled in the Kumaon foothills of the Himalayas, Nainital is Uttarakhand's captivating hill station, with its iconic Naini Lake. Boasting a rich colonial heritage from its British founders, it's an ideal weekend escape from Delhi. Though it lacks direct connectivity, Kathgodam railway station is 35 km away, and direct buses from Delhi offer a 7-hour journey.

33 Nainital Attractions

19. Jibhi, Tirthan-valley

Nestled in the lush forests of Himachal Pradesh, Jibhi is a serene hamlet untouched by industrialization. With its dense pine forests, tranquil lakes, and pristine temples, it offers a Victorian-style retreat that transports you to another era. Reachable via Shimla's railway station, 150 km away, you can easily find rental cars or take a bus from Delhi to Aut and then a direct connection to Jibhi. Enjoy nature with a cup of chai and the melodies of birds.

20. Mysore, Karnataka - A glimpse of Southern India

Known For : Mysore Palace Brindavan Gardens Mysore Zoo

The flamboyant City of Palaces, Mysore boasts a rich royal heritage, famed silk sarees, and a backdrop of the Chamundi Hills. With its cultural allure, it attracts tourists throughout the year. While its airport isn't fully functional, Bangalore's airport is a viable alternative, with easy train and bus connections to Mysore. Stay options are plentiful, making it perfect for a two-day exploration.

36 Mysore Attractions

Beyond the bustling Kasol in Parvati Valley lies the serene village of Chalal, offering a deeper dive into Himachal's magic. A 30-minute trek away from the tourist hub of Kasol, Chalal has managed to retain its old world mountain village rustic charm. Set in the beautiful Parvati Valley of the Himalayas, with a grand view of snow-capped mountains and majestic pine trees, this quaint town can be visited between april and june. With homestays and hostels available, immerse yourself in its Himalayan charm.

Some Do's and Don'ts of Solo Travel

• While it is liberating to not have to check in with people constantly while travelling alone, make sure someone has the numbers of the places you'll be staying at.
• If you are going to a place where your phone might not get network and you are not sure where you'll stay, get an MTNL/BSNL sim-cars for your phone as most places do catch their signal.
• When going to a cold place, always carry en extra pair of woollen socks that can also double up as mittens for when your hands start to get cold.
• Always have some money strapped on your person for if your luggage were to get lost, you can at least get by to a safe location with some money.
• When backpacking, keep it light as you'll only have to carry the bag like dead weight. Backpacking to colder places is better since you can re-wear the same clothes a few times, without sweating in them and feeling mucky.

This post was published by Akriti Paracer

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Visit the Nordics, Canada, the Mediterranean, Fiji or Australia with these holiday deals

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Treat your loved ones to a well-deserved holiday with these deals. Photo / 123RF

There’s no perfect time for a holiday - except now!

Whether you’re planning a solo trip , a romantic getaway , a kids’ treat or a whole family excursion , we have deals that can make your next getaway cheaper and better.

Discover something new in the Nordics

Ready to embark on a new adventure to see the world’s most breathtaking landscapes? Then Adventure World’s Grand Nordics trip is the perfect deal for you. This 22-day journey begins and ends in Copenhagen , and tours the great Nordics - from Norway ’s rugged fjords to the beautiful cities of Copenhagen, Stockholm and Helsinki . You’ll also get to explore the beautiful capital of Finnish Lapland and indulge in Nordic cuisine at its finest.

As a bonus, you’ll get to tick off one of the best natural spectacles: the magical and vibrant hues of the Northern Lights.

This deal starts at $13,159 per person and includes meals, accommodation and transportation. Visit adventureworld.com/en-nz/tours/grand-nordics to book or call 0800 238 368.

Set your sights - and skis - on Canada

You’ll never run out of spots to ski at the second-largest ski resort in Canada , Sun Peaks. With 135 runs spreading over 4270 skiable acres of terrain, Sun Peaks is the ideal spot for powder hounds. At the heart of the ski resort there’s the recently renovated Sun Peaks Village , offering ski-to-door access, three slopeside hot tubs and one outdoor heated pool.

Enjoy the wide ski field and stay at the hotel for a whole week with House of Travel’s seven-night package for only $4255 per person, share twin. This includes return Air Canada economy-class airfares from Auckland, accommodation and early-bird lift tickets.

Book until May 17, 2024 through their website hot.co.nz/sun-peaks or call 0800 713 715.

READ MORE: Why Sun Peaks Resort makes for a great holiday - even if you don’t ski .

Plan your next luxury voyage

Embark on a Mediterranean luxury cruise aboard Silver Ray with Silversea Cruises. Visit Cadiz, western Europe’s oldest city, explore lively medinas at Tangier, and enjoy the romance of Casablanca.

The 11-night Silversea cruise from Lisbon to Barcelona has it all: an upgraded deluxe veranda suite, return flights, return private executive transfer from your home to the airport within 80km, shore excursions, complimentary drinks, butler service and US$1000 in Shipboard Credit per suite.

Book before May 31 via travel-associates.co.nz or call 0800 951 655.

Upgrade your staycation in Fiji

Family trips can be exhausting to plan, but this five-night escape to Fiji ’s Plantation Island Resort will make your next holiday a breeze.

For just $662 family share (two adults/two children), you’ll get to stay at Plantation Island, access its great amenities, and as a bonus, spend two nights in Nadi staying at Fiji Gateway Hotel. You’ll be welcomed with a shell lei, free kids’ access to Coconut Kids Club and Lairo Club, and a one-course dinner at Tavola Restaurant with two to three hours of babysitting.

Book your stay before May 31 at plantationisland.com/specials/ or call 0800 758 787.

Say yes to a tropical holiday in Queensland

Embrace holiday mode with a five-night stay at the lush tropical gardens of Port Douglas with your whole family . The Freestyle Resort Port Douglas offers one and two-bedroom apartments, perfect for families who want to escape the daily hustle and bustle .

Situated perfectly between the spectacular natural beauty of the Daintree Rainforest and the incredible sights of the Great Barrier Reef , this package offers a retreat for your whole family, complete with a full-day Quicksilver Outer Great Barrier Reef Cruise, a wildlife habitat adventure, complimentary wine, and an exclusive My Queensland Experience pass, all for just $749 per person.

Don’t miss this tropical getaway - secure this deal before May 31. Visit myqueensland.co.nz/package/freestyle-resort-port-douglas-5-night-one-bedroom-garden-apartment-land/ or call 0800 654 175 to book.

Explore the latest Hot Deals content for more travel recommendations, trips and deals.

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Travel Unpacked: Hong Kong boosts halal-friendly options and Maldives eyes solo travellers

The national rounds up the most interesting tourism news you might have missed.

Hong Kong is on a mission to upgrade its travel offerings for Muslim tourists. Photo: Hong Kong Tourist Board

With solo travel a notable trend in 2024, one resort in the Maldives is rolling out the red carpet for single travellers in July. Meanwhile, Hong Kong took its participation in the Arabian Travel Market to announce that it is planning to bounce back from pandemic lockdown with renewed efforts to attract Muslim holidaymakers .

And in the US, one of the country's most-visited theme parks has revealed the opening date of its hottest summer attraction.

Here's a round-up of recent travel and tourism news – in case you missed it.

July is solo travel month for this luxury Maldives resort

Solo travellers seeking an island escape take note, one Maldivian resort is making July all about individuals.

Nova Maldives is tapping into the growing trend of solo travel from the GCC region by organising a host of experiences at the Indian Ocean Resort. Moving away from the Maldives being seen as a classic destination for honeymooners and couples, Nova Maldives' July activities have been tailored to appeal to travellers exploring solo. Discounted rates are also on the cards for those travelling on their own, with up to 45 per cent off and rates starting from Dh1,795 ($488) per person per night.

Guests will be able to join like-minded others in beachside football and volleyball matches, while those interested in discovering the Indian Ocean can head off on sunset fishing expeditions or swim with whale sharks and sea-loving companions. Snorkelling and diving excursions are also available for solo travellers, who can join group expeditions set up to foster what the hotel is billing as its “Nova community”.

Guests looking for a transformative trip can tap into authentic Maldivian culture with immersive painting sessions that are led by local artists, or traditional cooking classes run by Maldivian chefs. Yoga, meditation and tailored spa treatments offer solo travellers a chance to embrace the solace of their journey.

“Our curated experiences for solo travellers are personalised considering their individual interests,” said Althaf Mohamed Ali, chief operating officer at Pulse Hotels & Resorts. “Nova has been designed for solo or group travel, and couples, seeking a unique and rejuvenating experience. Nestled on a 100 per cent natural island, it offers the perfect blend of privacy and comfort with the option for a range of once-in-a-lifetime group activities, which bring together travellers from all over the world.”

Located on the South Ari Atoll, Nova Maldives aims to foster connections between guests over food and drinks via communal dining tables in Soul Kitchen and sunset sessions at Wink and Solis where travellers can gather and mingle with other like-minded guests, or simply enjoy watching the Sun set over the island.

Hong Kong Tourism on a mission to offer halal-friendly holidays

Hong Kong is on a mission to make the destination more welcoming for Muslim travellers. That's according to Dane Cheng, executive director of Hong Kong Tourism Board, who spoke to The National on the sidelines of the 2024 Arabian Travel Market in Dubai.

As one of the destinations that was closed to tourists for the longest during the Covid-19 pandemic, Hong Kong has been open to visitors without any quarantine requirements only since March last year. And as tourist numbers return to Hong Kong, there's a focus on evolving its attractions to more visitors, including travellers from the GCC and to the luxury market.

“We've seen our GCC visitor numbers returning at about 45 per cent, which is not great, but we see potential,” said Cheng.

“In the past, the number of tourists from this part of the world hasn't been large. From the whole of the GCC, we were recording around 50,000 visitors a year. But now we can see that visitors who have typically favoured Europe and going West, are showing interest in going eastbound. They're going to Asia to explore places like Bangkok, Thailand and Singapore, but believe Hong Kong offers a great location for them to come, not least because of the flight connectivity.”

Emirates and the Hong Kong Tourism Board signed an agreement during the Arabian Travel Market to work together to boost inbound tourism into Hong Kong from key target markets in the Middle East and Europe. The Dubai airline offers 21 weekly flights connecting the destinations. Cathay Pacific also offers seven weekly flights, while Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways also fly from the GCC to Hong Kong. The destination is visa-free for GCC travellers and offers other perks.

“We're a very small city with a good public transport network, English is widely spoken and it's very safe,” said Cheng. “We have a lot to offer in terms of East meets West, but we need to up the game in terms of being Muslim-friendly. We need more halal restaurants and other facilities, but we're now on top of this.”

Having drafted in consultants to educate hoteliers, restaurant owners and others in the tourism industry about providing halal facilities for travellers, Hong Kong is hoping that the pay-off will come via boosted visitor numbers.

“We would like to attract more of the entire Muslim travel market, not just those from the GCC, but the global market as the travellers are young, they're modern. We hope they will come to Hong Kong, and then perhaps venture further into mainland China and the Greater Bay Area.”

The destination is also presenting a new horizon of luxury experiences as part of its GCC travel initiatives via its Travel in Luxe campaign. This promotes cultural encounters through curator-led museum tours, stylish experiences including helicopter tours and luxury shopping trips and family travel via VIP experiences at attractions such as Hong Kong and Ocean Park. And tourists who do decide to make the trip can explore some fascinating attractions.

“Hong Kong is exciting and it also has a few things that were enhanced in a big way during the country's lockdown,” said Cheng.

“Number one is the art and culture scene, including a new area called the West Kowloon Cultural District, which has two excellent museums, the Mplus Museum which has the largest collection of modern art from China; and the first Palace Museum outside of China that displays many never-seen-before items. We also have new high-speed trains from China – the fastest in the world – as well as a bustling calendar of events including the Rugby Sevens, which many people say is the most entertaining edition of the event.

“What makes Hong Kong special is also the neighbourhoods here, they're not artificial, they are real neighbourhoods that we promote. And people can visit and see old buildings and stores that have been around for centuries, first under British Colonial influence and also under Chinese influence. And then we also have modern new buildings, and that remix of Hong Kong is what makes it interesting.”

Walt Disney World Resort's Tiana's Bayou Adventure to open in June

Walt Disney World Resort in Florida will open its latest ride next month.

Tiana's Bayou Adventure is replacing the long-running Splash Mountain attraction at Magic Kingdom park that was closed in 2023.

The new Princess and the Frog -themed ride promises to be a colourful, Mardi-Gras inspired attraction with visitors welcome to ride on it from June 28.

Splash Mountain had a long run at the world-renowned theme park since it opened in 1989. Popular for its five-storey plunge, the ride garnered negative attention thanks to the controversial Song of the South film it was inspired by. The 1946 film has been called out for its white-centred depiction of slavery and racial stereotypes.

The ride's popular log-flume drop will remain in Disney's new attraction, but everything else is being overhauled. Picking up after the events of the Walt Disney Animation Studios film The Princess and the Frog ends, the ride takes visitors on a journey with New Orleans's resident Princess Tiana through the bayou as she prepares to host a Mardi Gras party. New audio-animatronics will feature many of the 2009 film's original voice actors reprising their roles including Anika Noni Rose as Princess Tiana, Bruno Campos as Prince Naveen, Jenifer Lewis as Mama Odie and Michael-Leon Wooley as Louis.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will feature original music and familiar tunes from the film, as well as newly created animal characters that will put on a showcase featuring music authentic to the region of New Orleans. This will be complemented by new music created exclusively for the ride from PJ Morton of Maroon 5 , and Jazz-legend Terence Blanchard.

Visitors lining up for the ride will enjoy the scent of frying beignets – a staple in New Orleans' French Quarter – and will be able to make use of their waiting time by checking out artwork from New Orleans' artists Malaika Favorite and Sharika Mahdi.

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Our guide to luxury solo travel

Plan your experience

Find yourself, by yourself. Anywhere in the world.

Sometimes, you just need to get away from it all. To strike out on your own and forge your own path. And there’s no better way to do it than through luxury solo travel. When you step out of your comfort zone, you can discover new ways of thinking and living. Discovering unfamiliar cultures and distant lands at your own pace and on your terms.

However, the luxury solo trips you can browse below are far from lonely or awkward. No, these are spellbinding, highly-curated journeys designed specifically with the luxury solo traveler in mind. Unconstrained, joyous, and free. We’ve worked closely with our travel experts and local contacts to refine experiences that perfectly match the needs and desires of those embarking on solo travel. They’re not ‘normal’ trips for one. They are not part of a group tour (we do not offer group tours). Instead, they’ve been designed from a singular point of view. Yours.

Got some questions? Our friendly travel experts are only an email or a phone call away.

Drop us a line

Frequently asked questions about luxury solo travel

What are the benefits of travelling alone.

You’ll travel on your own terms – and at your own place. There’s time for silent reflection and time to test your mettle. Take a slow boat through the waters of Halong Bay, propped up with a book. Ride a horse along the black beaches of southern Iceland. Take in the frescoes and ruins of Akrotiri, blinking in the sun, putting your bag down to sip a beer in a taverna, alone. You can write your notes. You can call the shots. You can truly immerse yourself in another world while calling all the shots. Often, it’s great to travel with a companion (or a few). But sometimes it’s important to take stock and to learn more about yourself. That’s what solo travel can do.

How should I pick where to travel solo?

The whole world is your oyster. It doesn’t have to be exotic and far flung. You could explore the eateries of Spanish Basque Country. Study the ruins of ancient Rome. And drink and eat your way through the bars of Buenos Aires. But you could also set off to learn about the plant life of the Peruvian uplands. Explore nature in the Galapagos Islands. Or wander amongst the monasteries of the Georgian mountains. Luxury solo travel is a great way to learn new skills and to practice those that have gathered dust. Wine-tasting. Cooking. Yoga. Writing. Everything’s up for grabs.

How much is one of your typical solo trips?

Our solo trips are completely tailor-made, and private (we do not offer group tours). As a result, the cost of a solo trip can vary hugely depending on location, duration and the type of experiences involved. From exploring a city to a far-flung adventure, the possibilities are vast. Due to the nature of our bespoke, luxury experiences, we would expect a minimum cost to be in the region of $8,000 (£7,000) for a week-long trip.

How can solo travellers stay safe?

When you come with us on a luxury solo trip, you’ll have access to our partners on the ground, local guides, and our 24/7 hour support line. There will always be somebody on hand to help and assist, including providing pre-travel safety briefs. Many solo travelers ultimately chose to travel with a guide (or several), so you don’t always have to be entirely on you own.

What factors are important when choosing a solo travel destination?

Some destinations seem better designed for twos or groups. The romance of the Maldives might offer less to a solo adventurer. Think about your objectives and needs. Do you want to go slow, or to take part in lots of high-octane activities (like surfing, sailing, and biking)? Do you want to get really, really far from it all? If so, then consider places that are naturally suited to longer journeys. You could take in the cities of western Europe. Or you could make your way through the jungles of Costa Rica.

What tips do you have for travelling solo?

Plenty. Think about the ways you might want to document your trip. A notebook, a pen, a camera. There’ll be plenty of time to record your thoughts, experiences, and environment. Talk to the locals. Spend time hanging around. Embrace the freedom of getting a bit lost. Ask for directions, ask for help. You can be entirely spontaneous, as well. This is often much harder when you’re part of a bigger group. Happily, we’re experts at planning trips with lots of cushion room and space to make spontaneous decisions and choices. And we’re only ever a call away if you want to change your wider plans mid-trip.

Do you offer group tours?

No. Our solo trips are exactly that – solo. After a detailed consultation with one of our Travel Experts, we will customize you a trip that is unique to you. We do not offer group tours.

Different trips for different travelers

We find there are usually two types of solo travelers. Those who want to immerse themselves in a culture and explore a country, and those who want to do the very opposite, and detach themselves from almost everything and explore the wilds of the world. With that in mind, we’ve broken these types of experience into two categories, below.

A – Z of destinations

Into the wilderness

Just you – and the great outdoors.

Like Ernest Hemingway or Rebecca West before you, nothing is as enriching or rewarding than exploring the vast landscapes of our planetary wilderness. Cities and highways. Airports and shopping malls. These things are big and loud, but much of our world is quiet as the night – and demands to be explored.

For those in the know, there’s our ultimate ‘go it alone’ experience: Get Lost . We’ll lose you in the wilderness, and we’ll help you find your way home.

Start planning

Examples of our solo wilderness escapes

Solo journeys into the great outdoors.

The concept is simple. With Get Lost, we’ll drop you off in the middle of a beautiful ‘nowhere’, and then we’ll help you find your way back home. From the sands of Morocco to the Mongolian steppe. You’ll disconnect, re-engage, and push yourself. It’s a trial, a test of character. And it’s like no other travel service on earth.

Marrakech, Agafay & Essaouira: from the Medina to the coast

Dive into the souks of Marrakech’s medina, barter hard for a bargain and afterwards de-stress in a traditional hammam. Hike to an indigenous Berber village, camp in a chic tented camp and learn to kitesurf on the stiff Atlantic breeze. This is Morocco.

Iceland: from land to sea

A hand-selected sampling of the very best that Iceland has to offer fit perfectly into a week-long itinerary, this trip will give you the sense of pure fulfilment that comes from truly experiencing it all. Glacier, geysers, waterfalls, volcanoes and waterfalls; it’s got it all.

Santiago, the lakes & Patagonia: an intrepid hiking and biking adventure

This 13-day hiking and biking adventure around enchanting Chile is the perfect opportunity to explore and discover the true beauty that lies within this South American jewel. There’s much more than meets the eye.

Utah: a luxury adventure in the American Southwest

For us, nowhere screams ‘adventure’ quite like the American Southwest. Crammed full of otherworldly landscapes, plunging canyons and star-filled skies. And we’ll spread it all out before your eyes.

Bhutan & India: spiritual sights & Ayurveda

We’ve devised the perfect 11-night escape where you’ll join local monks for daily prayers in Bhutan before hopping across the border to get ahead of the crowds and visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise and find peace in the Himalayan foothills at the world-class wellness retreat.

Cultural curiosities

Make new friends in unfamiliar places.

The wilderness is wide and diverse, but so are the cultures and communities who occupy it. For those who want to experience culture and subwaypolitan marvels on their solo adventure, we can curate a trip that’ll bring you into the beating heart of some of the world’s most captivating places. With a huge network of local guides, experts and insiders , we’ll show you the world in a whole new light.

Examples of our solo cultural getaways

Go it alone into the world’s most captivating communities.

Tokyo, Hakone & Osaka: a luxury holiday around the flavours of Japan

This indulgent itinerary involves insightful tours by food professionals, authentic cooking classes, a touch of historical context, and all of the Japanese cuisine you could hope to consume in ten magical days.

Madaba, Feynan & Petra: a luxury holiday in the desert

These ancient landscapes simply live and breathes the story of time, so we’ve created an itinerary for the outdoor adventurers in our midst; an energetic and exciting way to get under the skin of this magical 35,637 square mile destination.

Highlights of Cuba: historic cities & cultural discoveries

Embark on an incredible 10-night adventure with Black Tomato through the fascinating country of Cuba, getting under the skin of the country by interacting with local movers and shakers and have the unique chance to visit places that few people get to see.

Georgia & Armenia: a cultural getaway through the Caucasus

Our nine-night trip will transport you as far back as the fourth-century, weaving through hidden streets and up to hilltop monasteries with a historian, experiencing traditional cooking masterclass with local chefs and discovering the ancient winemaking techniques in Kakheti.

Thailand and Laos: a peaceful escape

Immerse yourself in the spiritual and isolated side of South East Asia on this 15 night luxury vacation, where you’ll experience the cultures and landscapes of Thailand and Laos, from jungles and cities to islands and beaches.

Emilia Romagna & The Langhe: a luxury hiking adventure from the best restaurant in Italy

Forever on the hunt for that new flavor of Italy, we’ve landed in the Langhe. The best way to see it? With long, languorous hikes over the hills, broken up by gourmet picnics and nights in luxury hotels dining with Michelin-starred chefs.

How we created the trip of a lifetime

Earlier this year, Chloe—a Black Tomato client—became the first traveler to return to Mongolia after Coronavirus. And she traveled solo. This is her story.

Chloe’s solo adventure across the Mongolian steppe

Earlier this year, Chloe contacted our travel experts; requesting a three-week solo trip across Mongolia. Only 48 hours later, she was on the ground.

“What they managed to create for me within that timeframe”, she said, “was the trip of a lifetime”.

Her travel expert, Rob, worked with Chloe over those hours to curate something entirely different and entirely hers. She would help nomadic families prepare for their winter migration. She would learn the art of hunting with eagle riders. And she would cross mountain and steppe on horseback.

Explore Mongolia

Reflections, emotions, memories — in Chloe’s words

“I’m about to depart on the plane that will take me away from Mongolia after the most unforgettable three weeks.

“I have so many emotions leaving this place. The people are as hard as the environment that they live in, but their hearts are just so warm. I was inspired by everybody I met, especially by the way that they openly appreciated and looked after one another. I’ve got a lot to digest.”

Your testimonials

Solo travel isn’t lonely travel

Working closely with our local partners and experts on the ground, we were able to access people and experiences that you simply can’t plan for yourself. We have worked in Mongolia for years, and it is this local knowledge that helped us to make Chloe’s trip so very full of life.

“Riding camels across deserts, motor biking and horse riding over mountains, speaking with monks and shamans, chasing wolves and wild horses”

Throughout, Chloe had the support and welcome of the local families and our expert guides. In the very heart of a thriving community in one of the most beautiful places on earth, she traveled solo – but was not alone.

An example trip

Don’t just take it from us – here’s what some of our other solo travelers had to say

Responsive and reassuring.

This was the second time I had the opportunity to travel with Black Tomato and I can say without hesitation that I will be doing it again as soon as I have the chance. From the moment I made the initial phone call through to just before departing, they were professional, responsive, and reassuring,

The trip of a lifetime

Working with James at Black Tomato was truly one of the best experiences. He made sure I had a the trip of a lifetime in India and especially since I was traveling  alone , it was so comforting to know I could contact him anytime.

The epitome of bespoke

Black Tomato is the epitome of bespoke. Not only will your trip be 100% curated to you, you will never have a team more invested and caring about you as a person. My  Get   Lost  trip was wild, beautiful, special, and challenging in all the ways I was hoping.

Take the risk out of travelling

When planning your trip, we always look to secure the most flexible terms available. Wherever possible, this will include 100% refunds and fee-free postponements should any Covid complications arise between booking and travel.

Put the world in your palm

Sign up for weekly inspiration curated by our Travel Experts – straight to your inbox, straight from the world of Black Tomato.

Money blog: The 'fast food' appearing on menus at Michelin starred restaurants

With hospitality struggling like never before due to staff shortages, inflation and changing consumer habits, even those at the top of the food chain are having to adapt. Read this and more in the Money blog - and share your own problem or dispute below.

Tuesday 14 May 2024 08:54, UK

• Strong wage growth shrinks hope of interest rate cut
• The rise of Michelin starred 'fast food'
• 600 new skyscrapers on way for London, report finds
• Gen Z would rather deliver parcels than work in restaurants, Michel Roux Jr claims

Essential reads

• What is PIP - and what could government changes mean?
• How to make sure your car passes its MOT
• 'Loud budgeting': The money-saving trend that has nothing to do with giving up your daily coffee
• Money Problem: My workplace is bringing in new clock-in system to pay us by the minute - is this allowed?
• Best of the Money blog - an archive

Ask a question or make a comment

By James Sillars , business news reporter 

The prospects for a Bank of England interest rate cut are almost 50/50.

That's according to the latest financial market expectations in reaction to this morning's employment figures.

They showed the pace of wage growth remaining stubbornly high - overshooting the expectations of economists.

Strong wage growth is not what the Bank wants to see, as it fears a surge in consumer spending power driving a new wave of inflation.

There is a further set of wage data before the Bank's next rate-setting meeting on 20 June.

That may not help those seeking a cut in borrowing costs, however, as it will reflect the impact of April's big rise in the National Living Wage.

Away from the interest rate cut speculation, the FTSE 100 has opened flat for a second day.

Currys is among stocks doing well on the wider stock market.

The electricals retailer saw its shares trading almost 8% higher in early deals after it raised its annual profit outlook.

Those of Greggs, however, were down almost 1% despite a leap in sales.

The bakery to fast food chain said its performance was in line with expectations and, as such, it had no impact on its forecasts for the full year.

Wages grew by 6% in the three months to March, excluding bonuses, according to the Office for National Statistics.

This is slightly above economists' expectations - bad news for the Bank of England, which wants to see wage growth fall to help ease inflation as it weighs when to cut 16-year-high interest rates.

The Bank is watching wages closely as it looks to bring inflation back to its 2% target, and cooling earnings growth is seen as being key to paving the way for it to begin cutting rates.

In real terms - taking Consumer Prices Index inflation into account - pay rose 2.4% across the period.

In March alone, that figure was 3% - the highest level of growth since July 2021, when it hit 3.9%.

"Earnings growth in cash terms remains high, with the recent falls in the rate now levelling off while, with inflation falling, real pay growth remains at its highest level in well over two years," said ONS director of economic statistics Liz McKeown.

Meanwhile, unemployment ticked up to 4.3% from January to March, compared to 4.2% in the previous three months, December to February. 

The number of job vacancies remains about pre-pandemic levels, but has been declining for 22 consecutive months, said Ms McKeown.

"With unemployment also increasing, the number of unemployed people per vacancy has continued to rise, approaching levels seen before the onset of COVID-19."

By Jimmy Rice, Money editor

Michelin starred restaurants are supposed to be the antithesis of fast food, a place to enjoy ingredients that have been laboured on for days over several hours. 

But with hospitality struggling like never before due to staff shortages, inflation and changing consumer habits, it seems even those at the top end of the food chain are having to adapt. 

An increasing number of the country's most celebrated restaurants are now promising you a tasting menu in less than an hour. 

One-starred Pavyllon is located in the Four Seasons on Hyde Park, the kind of place you might have seen bustling with pinstriped business lunchers in another decade. But these days it's attracting customers with its "Lunch in 55" menu for £55.50 - four courses for half the price of its regular offering. 

Head chef Benjamin Ferra Y Castell says the industry is having to adapt. 

"Living costs have increased so, understandably, in general people will spend less," he tells the Money blog. "It's important to have a more affordable option at lunch." He says the amount of competition at this end of the market in London means you have to get creative. 

"It's noticeable that more restaurants across London are offering affordable lunch menus, including Michelin starred establishments and across Mayfair."

Castell says half the people now coming in for lunch are choosing the in-and-out option. 

"Four courses served in less than an hour fits in with busy schedules and offers convenience and versatility," he says. 

In the past couple of weeks, the flagship restaurant of Great British Menu winner Adam Handling launched its own speedy lunch. 

Frog by Adam Handling usually charges £195 for a full tasting menu but its new lunch offering has been priced at £100, with a mailing list promotion assuring people they can be out within an hour (though they can stay longer if they wish). 

"People aren't indulging at lunch like they used to and we just had to adapt," Handling told the Money blog. "We understand that things aren't going to go back to the way they were, at least not for a while. 

"Inflation has hit everyone hard and people don't have the luxury of spending time to sit and eat three to four-hour lunches." 

UKHospitality data shows 40% of Britain's restaurants are barely breaking even - but Handling is optimistic that better times are ahead. 

"We're not expecting it [cheaper, speedy lunches] to be a long-lasting trend," he says. "We won't be keeping it forever but, for now, we understand things are difficult at the moment and so, as we always do, we're adapting to our guests needs."

By Jake Levison , news reporter

Basically, PIP (personal independence payment) is a tax-free payment given to people to help with the extra costs caused by long-term ill-health or disability.

There are two parts to it:

• A daily living part - for those who have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability
• A mobility part - for people who have difficulty doing certain everyday tasks or getting around

It's possible to meet the criteria for one part or both parts, and payments vary for each.

Who is eligible?

People aged 16 to 64 can get PIP regardless of whether they work if they expect their difficulties to last for at least 12 months from when they started.

Anyone told they may have 12 months or less to live can also apply and may get PIP more quickly.

Those with both physical disability and cognitive or mental health conditions like anxiety can meet the criteria for both types of PIP.

There is no list of medical conditions that qualify you for PIP. Instead, you're assessed on the level of help you need with specific activities.

For the daily living part, you might need help with things like:

• Preparing food
• Eating and drinking
• Managing your medicines or treatments
• Washing and bathing
• Using the toilet
• Dressing and undressing
• Socialising and being around other people
• Talking, listening and understanding.

For the mobility payments, it's things like:

• Working out a route and following it
• Physically moving around
• Leaving your home

How does the government make its decisions?

The Department for Work and Pensions carries out an assessment to work out the level of help a person should receive.

A person's needs are judged through a points system, wherein the more severe the impact in a particular area and the more help required, the more points a person gets and the more money they receive.

The answers are assessed by health professionals, who then provide a report for DWP case managers with recommendations on what to give the applicant, if anything.

Applicants can provide assessors with additional medical evidence as part of a claim, but it's not a requirement, as a person's self-assessment about the impact their condition is prioritised when making a decision.

What does the government want to change?

It is looking at changing PIP in a number of ways, potentially affecting those who are eligible for it and the type of help those who are granted it will get. Below we summarise the key points in the consultation:

Different assessment model

The government is looking at introducing an assessment model based entirely or partly on the diagnosis given to an individual.

It says it is considering whether "evidence of a clinical diagnosis made by a healthcare professional could provide a more objective assessment of need" than a self-assessment.

Eligibility reform

This is an alternative to changing the assessment model.

The government says it may keep the current assessment, but change the questions so that they are less repetitive and to "ensure they are working as intended".

The government is also considering looking at changing the length someone needs to have been suffering for due to their disability before they become eligible for PIP, because "we know many people who have short-term illnesses can make a full recovery".

It has not specified the length of time this would change to. As it stands, people have to show that the negative effects of their condition have been present for three months before applying and that they are likely to last for another nine months after PIP is first given to them.

Changes to payments

In the current system, PIP claimants are given monthly cash payments which they can use as they see fit, whether that be things like aids and mobility devices, covering increased energy costs due to special equipment or paying higher premiums due to their condition.

The government says claimants often use the money for common household costs or some "view their PIP award as compensation for being disabled rather than as an award for extra costs".

With this in mind, the government is considering the following alternatives to cash transfer:

• Catalogue/shop scheme - where there would be an approved list of items from which disabled people could choose items at reduced or no cost
• Voucher scheme - where disabled people could receive vouchers to contribute towards specific costs
• Receipt-based system - where claimants buy approved aid, appliances or services for themselves and then provide proof of purchase to claim a contribution from the government
• One-off grants - a contribution to specific, significant costs such as for home adaptations or expensive equipment.

Why does the government say it wants to change PIP?

It says PIP caseloads and costs are "spiralling" as there are now 2.6 million people of working age claiming it.

There are 33,000 new awards for PIP each month, which it says is more than double the rate before the pandemic.

In its proposal, the government adds: "This is expected to cost the taxpayer £28bn a year by 2028/29 - a 110% increase in spending since 2019.

"This is in part fuelled by the rise in people receiving PIP for mental-health conditions such as mixed anxiety and depressive disorders, with monthly awards doubling from 2,200 to 5,300 a month since 2019."

It says its main three priorities through making changes are:

• Providing the right support to the people who need it most
• Targeting our resources most effectively
• Supporting disabled people and those with long-term health conditions to live independently and reach their full potential.

Announcing the consultation on 29 April, Mel Stride, the work and pensions secretary, told the Commons: "This government's priority is to make sure that our welfare system is fair and compassionate. Fair on the taxpayer, by ensuring that people of working age who can work, do work, and fair on those who are in most need of the state's help."

What do critics say?

Some believe the proposed changes are going to target people with mental health problems and stop them getting PIP, and they have not been encouraged by the fact the government has not specified which conditions would be eligible for PIP under reforms.

Mr Stride suggested to the Times that people with "milder mental health conditions" would no longer receive financial support, adding talking therapies, social care packages and respite care could be used as alternatives.

James Taylor, the executive director of strategy at disability equality charity Scope, called for an end to the "reckless assault" on disabled people and to fix the "real underlying issues".

"It's hard to have any faith that this consultation is about anything other than cutting the benefits bill, no matter the impact," Mr Taylor said.

The Disability Benefits Consortium (DBC) branded the consultation "cynical and cruel".

Speaking on behalf of DBC, Ceri Smith head of policy at the MS Society, said: "If the government truly wants a 'stronger, healthier and fairer society', they should start by addressing NHS waiting lists and fixing social care. Instead, this approach will punish disabled people and push even more into poverty."

How can you have your say?

You can view the consultation, which is open until 23 July,  here .

Once you have read it, you can respond online  via the government's form  or by emailing [email protected]

Read other entries in our Basically... series:

Young homebuyers are being forced to gamble with their retirement prospects by taking on ultra-long mortgages, according to a former pensions minister.

Sir Steve Webb described data - supplied by the Financial Conduct Authority to the Bank of England - as "shocking".

It suggests that more than one million new mortgages have been issued over the past three years with end dates beyond the state pension age.

The ex-Liberal Democrat MP, who is now a partner at the consultancy firm LCP, voiced fears that borrowers could be forced to raid their pension savings to clear their mortgage in a worst-case scenario.

Sir Steve saw the potential for harm in any case, as longer-term mortgages deprive people of a period running up to retirement when they could be mortgage-free and boosting their pension.

What does the data say? 

• 42% of new mortgages in the fourth quarter of 2023 - or 91,394 - had terms going beyond the state pension age;
• In the final quarter of last year, people aged 30 to 39 accounted for 30,943 new mortgages lasting beyond state pension age;
• People aged 40 to 49 accounted for 32,305;
• Under-30s made up 3,676 of these mortgages;
• People aged 50 to 59 accounted for 18,854, and there were 661 who were over 70.

Mortgage rates have been rising since the end of 2021 when the Bank of England began action to tackle rising inflation.

Taking home loans with longer maturity dates tends to be more attractive when interest rates are high, as monthly repayments are lower.

You can read more on this story below...

Waitrose has become the only supermarket to receive a royal warrant from the King. 

The recognition means the company has regularly provided the royal household with products for at least five years. 

It also means it can use the King's coat of arms on packaging, as part of advertising or on any stationary it creates. 

Waitrose was first granted a royal warrant in 1928 for supplying King George V with groceries and cleaning materials.

"We are honoured and proud that His Majesty has granted us his warrant," James Bailey, executive director of Waitrose, said. 

"It means the world to all of us, and our farmers and suppliers. There couldn’t be a more powerful symbol of our commitment to service and quality, and our determination to have the highest environmental and animal welfare standards." 

Waitrose was previously granted a royal warrant by the late Queen in 2002 and the King when he was Prince of Wales in 2010.

The Queen has also granted her first royal warrants, picking seven companies, including luxury department store Fortnum & Mason and the florist that supplied her coronation flowers, Shane Connolly & Company. 

The royal nod could be bad news for customers, however, with a brand finance expert telling Sky News that having a royal warrant allows firms to charge a price premium.

David Haigh said his company's research estimated this to be "between 10% and 25%".

A royal warrant says a company or a product is luxurious, high quality and sustainable, he explained. 

He estimates the scheme is "worth billions to UK companies and… therefore it's a very high value to the UK economy".

"And one of the reasons for that is that a lot of foreign tourists and buyers have a preference for royal warrant holder products. We found that 100% of Chinese buyers would pay in excess of 10% for a royal warrant holder product."

Read more on the Queen's choices here :

Gordon Ramsay's restaurants tripled losses to £3.4m last year, as the chef warned businesses in the industry were facing a "challenging" climate. 

The chef's group spent millions opening five new restaurants in 2023, including a Lucky Cat in Manchester, a Bread Street Kitchen in Battersea Power Station and a Street Pizza in Edinburgh. 

Sales at his wide-ranging establishments rose, however, by 21% to £95.6m in the year to August, according to The Telegraph. 

"It's been a really hard-fought year, but at the same time an exciting year, and in tough times it amazes me how strong and vibrant our industry is," Ramsay told the news outlet. 

"It's challenging out there and businesses are battling to stay afloat, rising costs, rent and food costs, multiple strikes. It's a battle" 

He was optimistic, however, saying there hasn't been "so much passion and vibrancy" in the industry since he opened his first restaurant in 1998.

"We've still got something wonderful to celebrate, and I truly believe the industry has never been so exciting."

Once the UK's favourite alcoholic beverage, beer's popularity seems to be fading among the younger drinking generation... 

In fact, only 30% of people aged 18 to 24 ever drink it, according to a study commissioned by the Society of Independent Brewers. 

Instead, younger drinkers say they prefer drinking spirits, wine and cider. 

Pub visits appear to be suffering as well, with almost a quarter of the 2,000 people surveyed saying they have never visited their local. 

SIBA's 2024 Craft Beer Report paints a more positive picture for small and independent brewers, however, with more than 55% of beer consumers saying they now drink "local craft beer". 

It also found average beer production volumes among independent breweries has risen by 14% since last year - a return to pre-pandemic levels for the first time in 4 years. 

"Demand for local, independently brewed beer in the UK is strong, with independent brewers reporting production volumes up by 14%, meaning they have returned to 2019 volumes again," Andy Slee, SIBA's chief executive, said. 

But, he said, it's time for "cautious optimism" only, with the industry still plagued with a number of issues. 

"The short-term issue for small independent breweries isn't demand; it's profitability, rising costs and financial pressures such as lingering COVID debt," he said. 

"Far too many breweries are simply trying to survive rather than thrive, so while there are many positives signs highlighted in the report, for now it's cautious optimism."

Earlier this year, our Money reporter Emily Mee explored whether the UK's big night out culture was dying out. 

Nightlife experts warned we're losing one club every two days at the moment - and if we stay on this trajectory, we will have none left by 2030.

You can read more about her findings here...

A total of 583 skyscrapers are "queuing up in the pipeline" to be built across central London, a development thinktank has said. 

That is more than double the 270 built in the past decade. 

In the eastern borough of Tower Hamlets alone, 71 tall buildings were completed in that time that time, the report by New London Architecture found. 

A further 24 were in the City of London and 27 in Canary Wharf and Isle of Dogs. 

The report said the rapid change has been fuelled by a "burgeoning demand" for office and residential space, overseas investment and a supporting planning environment. 

"Tall buildings have changed the face of London substantially over the last 20 years and will continue to do so - the pipeline that NLA has tracked means there is at least 10 years' supply that has already been defined," Peter Murray, the organisation's co-founder, said. 

"London's population continues to grow, passing the 10 million mark at the end of this decade.

"We'll still need tall buildings; and NLA will continue to keep a close watch on what's going on." 

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Bread and bagels at The Works Cafe in downtown Portland. Photo by Aimsel Ponti

From New York-style boiled bagels to Montreal-inspired wood-fired ones, there’s lots of great bagels in southern Maine and several shops have the accolades to back that up.

In 2023, Bon Appetit named bagels from Rose Foods and Rover Bagel among the best in the country.

Two years before that,  Food & Wine Magazine put Rover, Forage and Scratch Baking Co. on its list of best bagels in the U.S.

Whether you like yours toasted with cream cheese or as the bread for your breakfast sandwich, you can find plenty of styles and flavors from Biddeford to Brunswick.

BEACH BAGELS

The offerings at Beach Bagels include a French toast and marble bagel, and the cream cheese menu comprises spreads like strawberry, olive and honey walnut. Along with breakfast sandwiches, Beach Bagels has hearty breakfast options like omelets and pancakes. Best of all, you’re steps away from a beach stroll. Just don’t let the seagulls steal your bagel. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily WHERE: 34 Old Orchard St., Old Orchard Beach. beachbagels.yolasite.com ______________

Dutchman’s opened in 2022 as a pop-up housed at Nomad pizza in Brunswick’s Fort Andross building. It’s since become a permanent fixture there and uses the pizzeria’s wood-fired ovens to bake its bagels. The hand-shaped, honey-boiled bagels come in plain, roasted garlic, poppy and a bagel-of-the-day flavor.

WHEN: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday to Sunday WHERE: Fort Andross, 14 Maine St., Brunswick. dutchmans.me ______________

FORAGE MARKET

Making bagels at Forage Market involves a two-day aging process. The bagels are naturally leavened with wild yeast starter and baked next to a hardwood fire. There are usually five flavors available, including sesame and garlic. Breakfast sandwiches (including vegan options) are available. Forage also has a location in Lewiston. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 123 Washington Ave., Portland. foragemarket.com _____________

MISTER BAGEL

There are 10 or so Mister Bagel locations in Maine, including South Portland and Falmouth. It all began with the Portland location, which was the first bagel shop to open in Maine. The late Rick Hartglass started Mister Bagel in 1977, and it is still a family business. Music fans will appreciate the breakfast sandwich menu, which includes The David Bowie (bacon, egg and American cheese), the Jimmy Buffett (egg with roast beef and cheddar) and The Lady Gaga (avocado, salt and pepper, with or without egg).

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 599 Forest Ave., Portland. misterbagelforestave.com ______________

At Rose Foods, the menu varies depending on the day, but there are usually six to eight flavors available. For example, should you pop in on a Friday, you’ll find a poppy and onion bialy (a cousin of the bagel that is not boiled). Rose Foods also makes a number of bagel sandwiches, including the Classic Nova with Nova lox and the Classic Whitefish. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily WHERE: 428 Forest Ave., Portland. rosefoods.me

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ROVER BAGEL

At Rover Bagel, you’ll find wood-fired plain, poppy, sea salt, sesame and everything bagels available most of the time, and the spread game here is strong with cream cheese options like lemon-thyme-honey cream and chili-garlic.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 10 West Point Lane Suite 10-204, Biddeford (Pepperell Mill). roverbagel.com

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SCRATCH BAKING CO.

You haven’t lived until you’ve experienced the line of devoted fans waiting for Scratch Baking Co. to open, especially on weekend mornings. Along with the popular Maine sea salt, plain and other everyday flavors, Scratch has a daily special bagel. There’s honeyed rosemary on Wednesday and jalapeno cheddar on Thursday. Scratch is also famous, at least to locals, for its P-Cheese spread. It’s a pimento cheese recipe made with cheddar, mayo, roasted red peppers and seasoning and was passed down to co-owner and head baker Allison Reid by her grandmother, Mern.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 416 Preble St., South Portland. scratchbakingco.com ___________

THE MAINE BAGEL

The Maine Bagel is a drive-thru with several breakfast and other kinds of sandwiches available. With a bagel list that features egg and bialy among the standards, the family-owned spot is the perfect place to stop on your way to Pine Point Beach. The Maine Bagel really shines with a dozen kinds of cream cheese spreads, including raisin-walnut, lox, strawberry, cranberry-nut and bacon-chive.

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. WHERE: 117 Route 1, Scarborough. themainebagel.com Advertisement

THE WORKS CAFE

The Works Cafe is an institution on the edge of the Portland’s Old Port. It opened in 1990 as Bagel Works before it changed its name in 2002. The original shop in this regional chain opened in Manchester, Vermont, in 1988, and there are 11 locations around New England, though just the one in Maine. Gone are the ’90s-era banana-walnut bagels and cold pizza cream cheese, but The Works Cafe is still a reliable place to grab a salt, multigrain or cinnamon raisin bagel, among others. The menu also has bowls, sandwiches and smoothies.

WHEN: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily WHERE: 15 Temple St., Portland. workscafe.com

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