travel singles over 40

Best Tour Companies for Singles

Book your next adventure with one of these options.

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.

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A recent study showed that the solo travel industry is projected to experience a significant influx in the upcoming years. Whether you want to experience a solo adventure, see the world at your own convenience, or hope to meet new people along the way, there’s always something worthwhile about traveling by yourself. 

Luckily, there are plenty of travel companies that cater to solo travelers to make planning stress-free. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best companies for every budget and travel preference to support your wanderlust—including our top picks for women-only and solo parent travel.

8 Best Tour Companies for Singles of 2024

• Best Experience: Exodus Travels
• Best for Ages 35-50: El Camino Travel
• Best Sustainable: G Adventures
• Best for True Solo Travel: Black Tomato
• Best for Ages 25-39: For The Love of Travel
• Best for 50+: Overseas Adventure Travel Rates
• Best Female: Wild Women Expeditions
• Best for Solo Parent Travel: Intrepid Travel

Best Experience : Exodus Travels

Courtesy of Exodus Travels

Traveling solo on an Exodus Travels group trip means access to self-guided and guided excursions around the world for every type of traveler. Choose a walking wine holiday in Portugal or explore Egypt via cruise boat and sleeper train, for example. Additionally, its Exodus Edits collection offers shorter itineraries of up to five days and is geared towards travelers in their 30s and 40s—though they’re ideal for anyone looking for more vigorous activity such as ziplining and surfing in Costa Rica or sampling street eats and beach hopping in Sicily. 

There is no single supplement fee when you room with a fellow traveler, and chances are you may end up with your own room anyway. Booking a travel itinerary with UK-based Exodus Travels includes a full refund should the company need to cancel your trip and a complimentary trip transfer to another tour or different person up to 21 days before the scheduled trip. Plus, travelers who book their third or more trips with Exodus receive a 5 percent discount on their next booking.

What’s more, the company works to curate trips that align with a number of United Nations sustainable development goals including goals for responsible consumption and production, empowering local communities, and climate action considerations. Exodus Travels (founded in 1974) was awarded Best Operator in National Geographic Traveller’s sixth annual Reader Awards in 2021.

Best for Ages 35-50 : El Camino Travel

Courtesy of Encounter Travel

According to El Camino Travel ’s founder, Katalina Mayorga, elder millennials are their strongest customer base. That means if you were born between 1980 and 1985 approximately, you’ll find yourself among curious, like-minded solo travelers looking to immerse themselves in destinations like Trinidad and Tobago, Colombia, and the Eastern European nation of Georgia. Some trips even add a professional photographer to capture shareable shots so you can remain in the moment.

All of El Camino’s guided, small group trips max out at 12 participants. They’re also curated with an ethos of preserving and protecting local culture, the environment, and communities. For example, some of their partners include the Environmental Research Institute Charlotteville in Tobago and La Sierra Artist Residency in Santa Marta, Colombia.

Best Sustainable : G Adventures

Courtesy of Intrepid Travel

G Adventures is particularly known for its sustainable, responsible ethos. The company works with small, locally-owned hotels and operators to ensure your travel dollars benefit the community you’re visiting; outlines policies around child and animal welfare practices; aims to reduce single-use plastics, and works to ensure experiences taking place in Indigenous communities align with community goals.

Founded in 1990, G Adventures specializes in small group adventure tours to a host of destinations from Asia to South America and Africa to the Arctic. Nearly half of the travelers on every trip are flying solo, and there’s no single supplement if you choose to bunk with a same-sex roommate. Or, select your own room for a fee. 

A Chief Experience Officer leads each group tour and itineraries are searchable by travel style. For example, find wellness-centric trips like nine days of daily yoga, visits to Hindu temples, and partake in traditional healing ceremonies in Bali. Or travel with their partner, National Geographic, for an exclusive guided tour of South Africa’s Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and a visit to Soweto township in Johannesburg, the home of Nelson Mandela. 

G Adventures partnered with hostel booking service Hostelworld in 2021 to launch its Roamies itineraries. Its combination of backpacking and organized travel itineraries includes countries like Albania, Mexico, the Netherlands, and Vietnam. The trips are marketed to 18- to 35-year-olds, though like-minded individuals keen on budget travel and communal environments may enjoy these trips, too.

Best for True Solo Travel : Black Tomato

Courtesy of G Adventures

Black Tomato specializes in bespoke luxury travel experiences. For those interested in traversing around the world solo and willing to pay a premium for tailored itineraries, its adventurous or culturally immersive experiences may just be your ticket.

Your travels might look like hiking and biking in Patagonia, embarking on a spiritual pilgrimage through Bhutan and India, chasing glaciers and geysers in Iceland, or learning to cook Georgia and Armenia’s local dishes or Japan’s regional cuisine.

In 2017, Black Tomato launched its Get Lost adventure travel experience. With the support of a dedicated team, and without prior knowledge of where they're headed, Get Lost participants will find their way home from an undisclosed location. The location is selected based on a pre-travel questionnaire about which environment clients would like to immerse themselves in. Then, they show up at the airport and the adventure begins.

Best for Ages 25-39 : For The Love of Travel

Courtesy of Contiki

With 80 percent of individuals traveling with For The Love of Travel jet -setting solo, each trip is packed with opportunities to meet fellow Millennial and Gen Z travel enthusiasts. For example, within your small “crew” of up to 14 people, make new friends doing snow sports and unwinding in saunas in Lapland or devouring tacos and sipping mezcal in Mexico City. Trips range from four to nine days, including weekends in Colorado’s Rocky Mountain wilderness or an extended weekend in Costa Rica where you’ll hike through rainforests, relax in hammocks, and hike, bike, or surf.

According to company feedback, the average FTLOT traveler is 30 years old and interested in meeting new people while traveling . The company bills itself as a mid-range travel company, where “​​we might stay in a more basic hotel for a couple of nights so we can include a Michelin-worthy meal and a private catamaran ride.” 

In 2022, FTLOT plans to offer at least 10 new itineraries including to Belize, Turkey, and Spain’s Basque Country. And for those with the flexibility, the company launched Sojrn in 2021 featuring month-long, themed stays in destinations like Cape Town—focused on biodiversity—and a fashion-oriented stay in Paris.

FTLOT requires an initial deposit and allows installment payments if not paid in full.

Best for 50+ : Overseas Adventure Travel Rates

Courtesy Flash Pack

Overseas Adventure Travel is primarily aimed at American travelers aged 50 and over. It offers guided itineraries to worldwide destinations, including Africa, Antarctica, Asia, and the South Pacific, with trips ranked by activity level and accompanied by a list of physical requirements to help select an itinerary that is best suited for you. For example, their Japan and South Korea itinerary advise that participants be able to carry their own luggage as the selected hotels do not have porter service.

Some of Overseas Adventure Travel’s most popular trips include 17 days of wending the Adriatic from Croatia to Bosnia and Herzegovina (think a walking tour in Dubrovnik, sampling traditional Bosnian food in Sarajevo, and exploring the countryside near Zagreb). On another popular trip, you spend 15 days traveling through Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, ending in Helsinki, Finland. All trips offer pre-and post-itinerary extensions, and either waive the single supplement entirely or offer a discount on a private room.

The company offers a free Roommate Matching Program which helps you find a like-minded, same-sex roommate. If they can’t find a match, your single supplement is deducted. Small group sizes typically average 13 travelers.

Overseas Adventure Travel won the Solo Travel Award for Best Tour in 2017 and 2018, thanks in large part to its policy of offering a limited number of single spaces for each itinerary.

Best Female : Wild Women Expeditions

Courtesy of Overseas Adventure Travel

It began as an all-women, Canada-based canoe tripping company in 1991, and Wild Women Expeditions is perfect for boundary-pushing women who want to travel independently and enjoy the safety and support of an organized tour. The company also prioritizes hiring female tour leaders and on-the-ground guides. It offers outdoor adventures for women of all ages and identities and with a range of physical abilities (“whether your greatest skill is tracking a storm or talking up a storm, summiting mountains or summoning courage, keeping your kayak in line or coloring outside the lines,” as the company describes).

The company travels to 31 destinations around the world like Egypt, Tanzania, and the Azores islands. Itineraries are typically adventure-based and are filtered on their website by activity, with options ranging from sailing to cycling and horse riding. Imagine yourself sea kayaking and snorkeling in the Galapagos or scaling glaciers in Alaska. 

Most guests are solo travelers and there’s no single supplement to worry about as accommodation is typically in a shared room or cabin. Though if privacy is a priority, you can usually snag your own room for a nominal extra fee. Group sizes are kept small and social with between six and 14 women, depending on the itinerary you choose. The average group size is eight. 

Wild Women Expeditions also takes care to curate trips that avoid or minimize the disturbance of wildlife; supports environmental education and advocacy projects; and partners with social justice and women’s rights organizations.

Want to take a look at some other options? See our guide to the best women-only adventure travel companies .

Best for Solo Parent Travel : Intrepid Travel

Courtesy of Wild Women Expeditions

Intrepid ’s family-themed holidays welcome adults traveling with children, including solo parents looking to travel with their kids without the stress of planning and coordinating a trip. Since each family’s travel needs and preferences are different, every itinerary includes an “essential trip information” section where Intrepid outlines whether the trip would be a good fit for you and your kids, as well as a physical rating from least to more strenuous activities. 

For example, an itinerary through part of the Amazon Jungle in Peru advises the jungle can be very hot and humid, and that the weather can be unpredictable in the Andes. On the other hand, an 11-day trip to Borneo island in Southeast Asia lists a minimum age of 5 and outlines a range of accommodations from hotels to guesthouses and jungle camps; on a few occasions, travel times between destinations range between four to five hours. Trips to Costa Rica, Tanzania, China, and Morocco are also listed.

Individuals under 17 years typically receive a 10 percent discount, and the company requires that adults have at least one child under 18 years traveling with them. As part of Intrepid’s commitment to responsible travel, itineraries support initiatives surrounding sustainability and conservation, climate education, and preservation of Indigenous culture.  

Mathieu Young / Getty Images

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INSPIRATION FOR WOMEN TRAVELLING ALONE

Travel For Singles Over 40 – All You Need To Know To Plan Your First Trip

Table of Contents

Updated on February 17th, 2023

Travel for singles over 40 can be daunting but incredibly empowering for any woman who takes the plunge. After 70 countries & 30 years of independent travel , here are my top tips & ideas for anyone going it alone for the first time.”

Everywhere… within reason!

Travel For Singles Over 40

My  Introduction to Sue Where? Why? What? video tells you everything you need to know about the background to my blog & my hopes for how it will progress in the future.

What Have I Done So Far?

Travelling solo after 40 can be incredibly empowering. I am not anyone special & would never consider myself to be particularly brave. However, I am a woman who has decided not to be defined by my situation or to let being alone restrict me from fulfilling my dreams.”  

If you are keen to know more & wondering where to start, then you are in the right place!

You can  Subscribe Here to get regular updates & special offers from Sue Where? Why? What? along with a copy of my 201 Inspirational Travel Bucket List Ideas for FREE ! I hope you chose to join me on the journey.

In the meantime, here we go…

Where are the best places for singles to travel?

The top of every list will be Where? The answer will depend on a large number of considerations including, but not limited to:

• How much do you want to spend?
• How long do you have?
• When are you planning to go?
• What will the climate be like?
• Will you stay in one place or do you plan to move around?
• Do you want to be alone or meet others?
• How safe is it?
• What kind of activities do you want to include?
• Do you speak any other languages?
• Do you need a visa or vaccinations?

I have a few ideas on where I think are good places to start but I have also read numerous blogs & articles from fellow female travellers. As a result, I have come up with a comprehensive list of where I suggest are the best places to begin your journey. The most important piece of advice I can offer is to choose wisely. Don’t make things more challenging than they really need to be. These locations have all been chosen based on a combination of safety record & ease of transport networks:

• Asia – Indonesia, Japan, Taiwan, Sri Lanka, Thailand.
• Africa – Zanzibar in Tanzania .
• The Americas – Canada, Hawaii, Cuba , Belize

1. Documentation

There are a few essential considerations you need to have which may also help to decide where you go & how long for. Obviously, there is your passport & making sure that you have at least 6 months left before it expires. I always make sure I have printouts of all the important documentation, as well as a copy on my phone, just in case. Don’t rely just on your phone. They have a habit of dying just when you need them most (trust me on this)! Also don’t rely solely on having a WIFI connection as often this is not available until you have made it through all important immigration. In addition, please check:

Travel Insurance

Does it cover you for the full length of your trip? Does it cover for all activities you are likely to be undertaking? In particular the more “adventurous” activities like skiing, scuba or diving with sharks, bungee jumping, white water rafting, climbing a mountain? Does it cover all countries you are planning to visit?”

Visa Requirements

Check your visa requirements early. How long are you allowed to stay in the country? Is this multiple or single entry?

Vaccinations

The advantage of being a bit older is that we may have more money at our disposal & backpacking & hostels may not be something we need to consider. The disadvantage is that you may also have developed a taste for a bit of luxury which will all impact how far you can go & for how long!

I have to admit that I have always made it a rule to never add up how much I spend on a holiday. I believe it would scare the hell out for me & put me off going!”

However, I rarely travel high end, mainly use public transport, stay in 3-star style accommodation, eat in reasonably priced locations & bear in mind costs on a daily basis. So, in this respect, it is always at the forefront of my planning.

Emergency Funds

Travel holidays for singles mean that there is nobody to borrow money from or bail you out. My advice is that you always want to feel comfortable & never put yourself in danger. If you are sailing too close to the wind in terms of budget there is always a risk. I also like to make sure there is something in the pot for an emergency, to be kind to myself if things have been challenging, or if all goes wrong. I always have a bailout strategy. Thankfully this has never happened.

Saving Money

There are plenty of ways to save money on your holiday & make your money go further. For example, keep your eyes peeled for sales from travel companies & airlines. Booking ahead can help the expenses e.g. flights & accommodation can be spread over several months before you travel. Loyalty schemes are another way to get free accommodation & upgrades.

For all my tips on how to make your travel budget go further, check out my blog post .

The more flexible you are the better. If you want to travel at a certain time of year check the days & weeks either side of your ideal as there can be a big difference in flight price & availability.”

Many airlines & comparison sites offer a month’s view if you book online, with the prices displayed so you can see the cheapest & make your decisions from there. Also, the day of the week can have an impact, for example travelling on Tuesdays & Wednesdays is often cheaper.

4. Accommodation

For a comprehensive list of travel websites & apps, check out the post on my favourites .

Where To Stay?

A few key questions to ask yourself are these. They will not necessarily have the same answers in all locations & at different times in your holiday experience:

• What kind of facilities are you looking for? If you want to cater for yourself you need a kitchen. Should you want to keep fit, it’s a gym. Would you prefer a place with a pool?
• Are you willing to share facilities such as a bathroom or kitchen? Would you prefer these to be private?

Practicalities

Moving regularly allows me to change up my accommodation preferences throughout. This keeps things interesting & my budget on track.”

Location  

• Do you want to be close to the sights (daytime) or near restaurants (night-time)? Personally, I always believe that it is better to travel for the day’s sightseeing activities. I am happier to stay where I know there is a choice of restaurants in the evening. For getting around, you can walk or use public transport during daylight hours rather than more expensive taxis. I would be very careful about using some transport options on my own at night.

Most Importantly…

• Do you want to meet others or would you rather be on your own?

Remember, if you arrive & a place is not what you were expecting or you feel uncomfortable there, move. Once you’re in a location it’s much easier to find another. Make sure you always have money in the budget for this as an emergency.

So, in general here is my quick guide to accommodation choices:

All-inclusive Resort Hotels

The biggest disadvantage as a solo traveller was that I felt quite isolated. Not many people travel alone to these kinds of venues & as a result, the opportunities to meet others are limited. However, this suited me fine for the 3 days I was there.

For this reason, nowadays I prefer smaller, more independent hotels to the big chains. I often find they are in better locations with easier access for my needs. In addition, I find the clientele are more open to striking up conversation.”

Some of my best experiences have gifted me with a personal guide for my whole time in The Bahamas , a rooftop with a view of the Acropolis in Athens for under £40 & a community living experience in Antigua. Here, I ended up moving between 4 different beds just so I could stay as I was enjoying it so much! On the flip side, I have had some of my worst experiences & find it can be more hit & miss than hotels in general. For Airbnb, you need to decide what you are willing to share. Rooms in shared houses can be great for meeting people but come with concerns for security & the “joy” of sharing a bathroom.

Guesthouses or Bed & Breakfast

I often prefer this budget-friendly option as I find they are more conducive to meeting others. Breakfast is a great time to strike up conversations & there are usually informal communal areas. You often have the owner on hand to give recommendations & advice. They can be more unique in character with personal touches which I always enjoy.

Hostels also tend to have a more sociable atmosphere with communal areas & activities which are set up to get the residents mixing & keep them entertained.”

The downside of hostels is the age of the crowd. Check the reviews again & if the place is a “party” atmosphere or organises social activities which appear to be centred around heavy drinking (pub crawls etc) then they’re more likely to be a younger crowd…& less sleep as a result!

Housesitting

Basically, housesitting means you get free (yes free!) accommodation in return for looking after the property & a pet for the duration of the owner’s holiday. If you’re lucky you will also get full use of the car.

The advantage beyond the cost is that you will be staying in a truly authentic local home. You may also get introduced to the hosts friends so you have easy contacts should you need them, & you will have your pet for company.”

Where this may not be such a good option is location, depending on the facilities available near the host home. For all the details, check out Trusted Housesitters .

Couchsurfing

Hosts open their houses & allow travellers to stay for free. Your bed for the night could be a couch, an air mattress or your own room. There is loads of information on the website about staying safe while taking part. This could be a fantastic way to get a genuine authentic local experience & meeting people comes with the territory. But again, it will depend on location for solo travel & brings in a whole other element of potential safety challenges.

With all of these accommodation options, my advice would be to ignore the reviews at your peril! If you are looking at more personal hosting venues like (Airbnb, Couchsurfing) it can make a huge difference.

5. Travelling solo without being alone!

Learning a Skill

To read a tongue-in-cheek guide of my experiences learning salsa, see Havana Salsa Lessons. Learning about Dance & Embracing Life in Cuba 

For all the inspiration you need on Adult Learning Vacations , check out my blog post.

Volunteering

Go on a Tour

Alternatively, check out my blog post – Travelling Independently or Small Group Tour – which is best for your first solo trip?

Work Abroad

Fitness Retreats

Over the last few years, yoga retreats have been a key place where I have made friends on my travels and we have gone on to have adventures together. To read all about it check out my blog post HERE .

Find your “Tribe”

If you feel ready to indulge in a solo trip but are worried that you may find it lonely, then head for a likeminded community & you will always have common ground to start a conversation”

Sailing , diving, hiking & surfing types are always a good group to meet & lovely communities to become part of. Head to an area which is popular & enjoy making new friends!

6. Safety & Security

The ultimate goal is for you to feel secure to just go out there & enjoy discovering new worlds & experiencing new things. However, for now, here are some top tips. If you employ these, I hope you can do all this without being struck completely with paranoia.

For more on how to stay safe while travelling check out my 15 Top Safety Tips for Travelling Alone as a Woman. & my essential hotel safety tip , written after being broken into in St Lucia . In addition, consider signing up to  Empowerful via the Solo Female Travel portal. It is an  “always-on” female festival of all things safety, wellness & sexual wellbeing. On the site are over 30 sessions, involving 35 experts across 50 hours of content. Therefore, if safety is one of your concerns, signing up will gain you access to all of these resources.

What Can You Do Before You Go?

Do your research..

Plan Your Arrival.

I would always prebook my first nights’ accommodation beforehand, especially if arriving later in the day. The last thing you want is to be hunting for a bed with all you possess, as it starts to get dark.

Keep in Touch.

Share your itinerary with your nearest & dearest & send regular updates on your progress. Someone should always know where you are & where you are headed.

Learn Some Skills.

Language is the most important as it can enable you to communicate & stop feeling so isolated along the way. Also, consider some basic self-defence lessons before leaving home to give you a little more confidence.

What Can You Take?

Safes & Locks.

Always use a safe if it’s available in the room. If not, then make sure you have a couple of locks to keep your valuables secure.

Money & credit cards.

Money Holder.

Many travellers swear by the use of money belts, neck wallets or bra clips to keep their cash safe. I always use a cross-body handbag design. I carry it in the front always & keep my purse in a zip pocket inside.

If someone is that determined to steal from you then they will. The trick is to make yourself a less easy victim that the next traveller.”

Fake Wedding Ring & Photos.

I have never done this but many solo female travellers use this tactic to stay safe from unwanted advances. If you feel it will help you, then put a ring on your wedding finger to protect yourself. Also, think about carrying a photo of the “husband you are meeting later” with you. You never know when you may need them!

For an ultimate guide for packing a carry-on only, see THIS BLOG POST & don’t miss a list of all my must-have travel accessories in My Top 12 Essential Things To Pack For Travelling

Being Alone.

Basically, use the same principles overseas that you would at home, with a bit of extra caution thrown in. What I mean by this is don’t walk alone late at night; drink alcohol moderately & don’t take drugs. If you are alone, you need to keep your wits about you at all times. Don’t accept drinks from strangers & don’t leave your drink unattended. Don’t tell anyone you are on your own (this is especially where the fake husband you’re meeting later, wedding ring & photos can come in useful).

Be Alert & Aware of Your Surroundings.

Since I have travelled so much solo, I now have eyes in the back of my head! I never wear earphones while travelling. It is important for me to keep an awareness of what is happening around me at all times.

I also never like anyone walking too close behind me. If this happens, it makes me uncomfortable & I will stop suddenly, walk in the opposite direction, go into a shop or pretend to look at something. This takes them by surprise & draws attention to them if they are actually planning anything suspicious”

Social Media.

Ideally, keep this vague & don’t necessarily publicise specifically where you are or make updates “live”. Nowadays you never know who is watching.

DO NOT take anything valuable in terms of cost & emotional attachment. Be prepared that anything you carry with you on your travels is dispensable or replaceable. If it’s not, leave it at home. Keep valuables with you at all times when you’re in transit but don’t have them on display. The less you have on your person, the less you need to worry about. When travelling on public transport keep body or eye contact on your stuff at all times. Never use the overhead luggage racks or put your bag under the seat. Ideally, try & get a double seat for yourself & sit in the aisle with your bag next to you in the window seat. Keep one hand on it. If you need to sleep, use your bag as a pillow. If you are in a single seat, keep it on your lap.

Have Confidence.

I walk everywhere as if I own the place – shoulders back, bold stride, eyes in front…even if I know I’m going in completely the wrong direction!”

Never study a map while you’re walking. Instead, find a spot where you can sit, stop in a doorway, rest with your back to a wall. Check your map, plan your route & then walk equally confidently in the correct direction. Again, there will be far easier & more obvious victims than a woman who clearly knows where she’s going & is moving with a purpose!

Taxi safety.

When using a taxi, photograph the ID badge of the driver (& make sure he sees you doing it) then share this with friends. In addition, use Google Maps to track the route so you know you are being dropped at the right place & heading in the correct direction.

I am aware that this all sounds like hard work & a horror story. I do not want to put you off or make you scared to go out there & explore the world on your own…just more alert!

The biggest advice of all is FOLLOW YOUR GUT! If it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it. If you don’t feel safe, stop. Listen to your instincts. They are rarely wrong.”

Final Thoughts

Going solo when things have gone wrong, means I have dealt with them myself & my confidence has grown to levels I never thought possible before.

On my own, I have struggled with vulnerability. However, this is way overshadowed by the feeling of invincibility that comes with every step as you explore your new surroundings, & your own abilities.

Interested to read more?

You can also Subscribe Here to get regular updates & special offers from Sue Where? Why? What? along with a copy of my 201 Inspirational Travel Bucket List Ideas for FREE ! I hope you choose to join me on the journey.

This post may contain affiliate links. By using these, Sue Where Why What may receive a small commission. You will not pay any extra charges for this. My opinions, reviews & recommendations remain my own. For more information see my disclosure.

Sue Cockell

You might be interested in …, your ultimate guide to learning vacations for adults – over 30 inspirational ideas, 16 fantastic things to do on lewis and harris in the outer hebrides, scotland, solo road trip essentials – top tips for hitting the road alone, 27 comments.

This is such an empowering post with great info. Even for us women under 40 your advice is so solid and also really encouraging to read! I love taking solo trips and honestly feel solo travel has changed my life! Thanks for this great post!

Thank you so much Cate for your lovely words. I’m really pleased you found the post useful. I couldn’t agree more with the “changed my life” comment. Travelling solo has truly allowed me to see how strong & resourceful I really can be. Safe travels when we can again! Sue x

Wow – your story is so inspiring and the detailed information is incredibly valuable! Thanks for this post 🙂

Thank you so much Susan & I’m really pleased to hear that you found it useful & even more, inspiring. Stay safe, Sue x

I like the way you got started, with that list of yours! I am thinking that we all should have one, just start wrinting where you want to go and what you want to see…. and then go for it!

My Life List really helped to focus me & has really given me a roadmap for my travels. I thoroughly recommend writing it down, somehow it feels like more of a commitment. Sue x

Great advice. It can be daunting the first time you travel solo but I love it, although now I usually travel with my partner. So sorry to hear your loss – my condolences, but I’m sure he travels with you in spirit. Never stop travelling!

Thank you, Sarah, lovely words & he is very much with me <3. Glad you found the post useful. Sue x

Wow! This is a great reference for folks who aren’t the best at planning details. You’ve covered so many great questions. Thanks for thinking of all these.

Thank you Nancy, I tried to cover all the questions I thought I would have but glad you found it useful. Stay Safe, Sue x

This is a ton of great advice! I like how you point out to walk confidently with your shoulders back. And I’m sorry you lost your husband. I’m sure he would be proud of you and your adventures!

Thank you, Sharon, & pleased you found the post useful. Thank you also for your kind words & I like to believe he would be very proud. Thank you, Sue x

I absolutely adore this post, there are so many important messages which are going to resonate with so many females over 40 as well as others who have suffered a loss of a loved one. I’m only a couple of years away from the big 4-0 and part of me is dreading it, mostly because of society norms, that I should have a house/kids/settled down/career/ etc. Travel is so much more important. I am sorry to read about the passing of your husband and soul mate, but so encouraged that you turned to travel in some of your darkest days for your healing process. You’re quite a remarkable woman Sue!

Thank you Becki…on every level for your lovely comment. And 40 is not so hard, I hope you get to enjoy it without all the judgement when you get there. Stay safe until then. Sue x

Kudos to you and your spirit! Just keep travelling and inspiring us this way.

Thank you Sinjana for your lovely words. Sue x

Enjoyed reading this post! There are a lot of good tips. I like “walk everywhere as if I own the place – shoulders back, bold stride, eyes in front…” – yes, this should be followed by all. It is true that once you have done your first solo trip, you have won more than half the battle! 🙂

Thank you, Jan for your lovely comment & I’m really pleased that you found the post useful. Safe travels…once we can again 😉 Sue x

What a MASSIVE post and it is clear you have a TON of experience and wise words to share! I love the fake ring and photo tip! Have to admit there were times I needed one of these – or funnily enough fake kids. I spent 9 weeks in China for a work trip and people couldn’t understand why I didn’t want kids, it would have been easier just to have a fake kid photo to share! Really great resource you have put together here!

Thank you, Andi, & I’m really pleased that you found it so comprehensive. I know what you mean, sometimes it is just easier to tell a little white lie to just move the conversation on. Stay safe x

Very sad to hear your tragic story but I loved your adventurous spirit of traveling and living your life with full of enthusiasm. Solo traveling is very adventurous and after 40 you have achieved so many milestones. Also your tips are very helpful of not publicizing our trip on social media.

Thank you Yukti & really pleased that you found the post useful. Thank you for your kind words too. x

Fake wedding ring and photo of “husband” – I have never thought of it! Your experiences are amazing Sue. It is often difficult to make sense of life after a loss – a loss in any form that is a divorce, death, separation is an adjustment afterwards. I find myself returning to my passion, Travel and very gladly do so because when all else fails, I have that, my passion. The universe offers incredible opportunities for us and we ought to embrace it. Look forward to reading more of your stories.

Thank you for your wise words & I couldn’t agree more. Many big changes in life are caused by a loss in all its forms. I believe that following my passion has helped me get this far. I would go back in a second but it’s not possible so the only way forward is to embrace & make the most of the other aspects of my situation. Lovely words & thank you so much, hearing this means so much to me. Stay Safe, Sue x

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Hi, I'm SUE!

I aim to inspire women in mid-life to embrace the power of solo travel. I have been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years having visited over 80 countries across 6 continents. Here I share my travel tales, tips & recommendations to help you rediscover yourself while exploring the world. I’d love for you to join me on the journey.

Lets find YOUR next adventure!

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• Single in your 40s? Now is the time to travel

Eleanore Robinson 1st Sep 2023 5 min read

When is the best time to travel? If you are single and in your 40s, the time is now. That magic combination of no ties, a disposable income and being young and fit enough to climb a mountain means that  travelling in your 40s is the perfect time start ticking off places on your travel bucket list.

And you wouldn’t be alone. Research published by Mintel showed that more than half of solo travellers aged between 35 and 54 have taken a holiday alone , or as part of a group of people they didn’t know, because they have more freedom to do what they want. This was the largest percentage of any age group. They can’t all be wrong.

Embrace the freedom of solo travel and explore our favourite holiday destinations for singles over 40.

5 of the best holiday destinations for singles over 40

Reykjavík, Iceland

Visit Reykjavik during the  winter for a chance to see the Northern Lights , and enjoy a cold beer in the steaming pools of the Blue Lagoon while the snow falls on your face. Alternatively, h ead there in summer to experience the mind-blowing volcanic landscapes and awe-inspiring waterfalls, as well as revelling in the lingering night sun.

See more of Flash Pack’s Iceland adventures  here

Avignon, France

Avignon  is an easy weekend getaway, located in the heart of French Provence. This medieval city is one of  France’s most charming, steeped in history with beautifully preserved ramparts and medieval monuments. Top-quality restaurants are hidden within the cobbled lanes enclosed by the city’s ramparts. Highlights include the annual arts festival, the spectacular Papal Palace and the nearby lavender fields that bloom in the summer.

Florence, Italy

Florence is an ideal destination for singles over 40 wanting to indulge in the arts and culinary delights the city has to offer. I mmerse yourself in the culture, visit the historic centre, a Unesco World Heritage Site, and an abundance of Renaissance palaces, museums, art galleries and gardens. The culinary scene is impressive from classic ristorantes to trattorias to pizzerias. all serving classics risotto, lasagna and pizza.

See Flash Pack’s Italian adventures here

Montreal, Canada

This Canadian city in French-influenced Quebec is one cool spot, from the laid-back basement jazz clubs in Centre-Ville to the vibrant bars and restaurants in Vieux Montreal – i t’s easy to see why Montreal is an appealing destination for solo travellers over 40.  In summer, revellers pour in for the International Jazz Festival at the end of June, while in winter you can ski just outside the city.

Ibiza, Spain

There’s a lot more to this Mediterranean port city than all night clubs. The 2,500-year Old Town is a historical treasure trove.  Combined with  great bars and world-class restaurants,  Ibiza Town becomes one of the best holiday destinations for solo travellers over 40.

See more of Flash Pack’s Spanish adventures here

A Flashpacker’s tips for solo travelling in your 40s

Avoid tourist hotspots

You know where you want to go but how can you make the best of it? If you want a holiday that will create memories that last a lifetime, travel to your dream destination but plan to experience it in a more unique way. Visiting Cuba , I didn’t want to stay in a gigantic, generic, all-inclusive hotel that shields tourists from the realities of visiting a communist country.

Instead, I opted to stay in a Casa Particular; a private room in a family’s home. The two ladies who were looking after me waited patiently for me to surface for breakfast each day, while the owner, Roberto, took me through his photo album from his recent trip to Reading in Berkshire. By the end of my stay, the ladies who had treated me as a member of the family for the past four days worked up the courage to ask why I chose to visit Havana by myself? I explained in broken Spanish that, as expected, it had been a very interesting experience.

Take the leap

If, like me, you have a few adventures on your wish list, now is the time experience them. No-one wants to think about getting older and how it can restrict your ability to have the holiday you want. But there are things you can do to make life easier for yourself.

Travelling with bit of luxury can enhance your experience. I’m planning on returning to Torres del Paine National Park in Chile but instead of shivering in a tent wearing every piece of clothing I’ve taken with me (like last time), I’ll opt to stay in a luxury yurt or  hotel. Getting a good night’s sleep and having a decent meal can also make a world of difference when you’re looking to upgrade your 40s travel experience.

Explore holidays for solo travellers over 40

Ready to embark on your next adventure and experience the best holiday destinations for solo travellers over 40 ? Join Flash Pack today and you can enjoy the incredible experiences of travelling alongside other like-minded travellers .

Got a story or adventure that could inspire a solo traveller like you? Tag @flashpack on social or email [email protected] to be featured.

Images: Flash Pack, Unsplash

This is 40: How I found the perfect holiday formula on a solo group trip to Morocco

By Jennifer Abramson

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Single, Love Travel, Over 40?

Age-matched travel across six travel styles

Holidays for Singles 40 & Above

Short a travel buddy and don’t want to travel alone.

Maybe you were a backpacker in your twenties, or even pushing it out to your 30's. Or perhaps you've passed the milestone of 40 with travel memories yet to create.

Where-ever you find yourself, now it's your chance to travel solo for the first time.

IS SOMETHING HOLDING YOU BACK from your Dream Holiday?

The idea of (now) travelling alone isn’t your idea of a fun holiday, and you’re left wondering about the options for solo travellers over 40.

Travelling solo in your twenties or thirtes, isn’t the same daunting prospect compared to being over forty – backpacking is the norm or there’s the option to join touring companies like Contiki or Top Deck. But Contiki and Top Deck have a cut off age, and you’re no longer in their sights. How easy is it in your twenties?  – no end of options for finding travel buddies and meet other solo travellers along the way. In your 20’s plenty of travellers are still single – there’s lots of other ‘twenty somethings’ doing the same.

DWINDLING OPTIONS?

Friends not up for the same travel plans you have in mind, or the same passion? Or your circle of single friends has shrunk and you’re wondering your options for travel without a travel buddy?

GETTING STARTED

Wherever you are at with your travel plans, you definitely made some inroads as you got this far and you found us – Wow, a travel company for solo travellers fo over 40 year olds , perhaps is what you’re thinking.

We’ll, you’re right – you fit right in! Because, we only look after solo travellers.

Nice change to the other mainstream packages out there – ads loaded with images of the perfect couple touring Europe, or soaking up romantic moments at a tropical resort, and so on and so on…. tragically failing to show single travellers in the picture.

Find Your Travel Style

Not all solo travellers are the same, and that’s why we’ve created 6 travel styles to pick from

• 'Discovery' – leisure touring
• 'On The Go' - walking and adventure tours
• 'Marine' – ocean and river cruising
• 'Combo' - mixing it up with tour & cruise combination packages
• 'Relax' - chill out resort package
• 'Essentials' - mindful on the budget, without scrimping on value for money

Age Matched Groups

Most of our tours are created for single-solo travellers 40 years and over , with a mix of age groups offered;  40 years & over, 45 years & over, 50 years & over , 40 to 59 years, and there’s others.   And our Cruise Circle for Solos  cruise groups are best suited to cruise fans 40 years and over. Our age-matched groups have a proven track record, and you can read the countless testimonials from your fellow solo traveller.

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The Great Ocean Walk holiday was a great introduction to singles tours and walking holidays. ... a small group with people of a similar age enabled everyone to get to know each other.... Janene, 44 years, Newcastle, NSW

Sitting On The Fence?

Solo travel tours for over 40's , or holiday packages for singles; whichever you identify with, all being one-in-same, if you haven't quite made up your mind call us - we can chat and help to answer your questions. Or perhaps it’s some guidance you’re after, and our Travel Team are on hand to help show you the way. Speak to one of our travel consultants, Monday to Friday from 10am to 5pm Sydney T: 1300 653 692.  Visit our  List of Holidays  and find your next adventure.

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Vacations for Singles Over 40: Top Destinations to Explore

It’s never too late to pack your bags and explore the world as a solo traveler. Being over 40 is an exciting time to travel alone and discover new destinations. The experience of traveling alone can be liberating, empowering, and life-changing. In this post, we have curated a list of top destinations that are perfect for singles over 40 to explore.

From the tranquil retreats in Maui to the vibrant city life of Seville, Spain, we have covered it all. We have also included tips on how to make the most of your solo adventure and keep loneliness at bay with books and podcasts.

Whether you prefer organized tours or accommodation options such as hostels, hotels, or boutique hotels, we’ve got you covered. Join us as we take a journey through some of the best places in the world for solo travelers over 40.

Table of Contents

Embracing Solo Adventures: An Overview

Embrace the joys of solo travel and experience the freedom it brings. As a single traveler , you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in new cultures and meet interesting people along the way.

Create your own itinerary and have complete control over your vacation, allowing you to indulge in self-care and relaxation. Step out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself on a solo adventure.

With NLP terms like “solo vacation,” “bucket list,” and “intrepid travel,” there are plenty of options for you to explore. So go ahead, embark on a solo journey, and discover the incredible world that awaits you.

Top Destinations for Singles Over 40

Explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of The Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni in Bellagio, Italy. Immerse yourself in the vibrant city life of Seville, Spain. Uncover the hidden gems of Lisbon, Portugal, and indulge in its unique cuisine.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the majestic wilderness of Alaska in summer. Dive into the unique aquatic adventures and pristine nature of the Galapagos Islands.

Experiencing the Charm of Bellagio, Italy at The Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni

Immerse yourself in the charm and elegance of The Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, located in the picturesque town of Bellagio, Italy. Indulge in exquisite Italian cuisine and wine tastings during your stay, and be captivated by the stunning views of Lake Como.

Relax and rejuvenate at the hotel’s spa, or take breathtaking nature walks to soak in the beauty of the surrounding landscape . Experience the grandeur of the hotel’s architecture and intricate chandeliers, creating a truly unforgettable stay.

The Vibrant City Life of Seville, Spain

Immerse yourself in Seville’s lively bar scenes and vibrant culture, exploring historic landmarks like the Alcazar and Cathedral. Indulge in delicious tapas, experience flamenco dance and music, and take leisurely strolls along the Guadalquivir River.

The rich history and architecture of the Real Alcazar await, offering a captivating glimpse into the city’s past. Seville, with its vibrant energy and charming streets, is a must-visit destination for solo travelers over 40 seeking an unforgettable European adventure.

Uncover the Hidden Gems of Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, Portugal is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Immerse yourself in the vibrant neighborhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto, where old-world charm meets modern energy.

Explore the city’s rich history by visiting iconic sites like Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery. Indulge in the tantalizing local cuisine, from the famous pastel de nata to mouthwatering seafood dishes.

Take a tram ride through the city’s picturesque streets, soaking in the panoramic views. And when it’s time to relax, head to the beautiful beaches of Cascais and Estoril. Lisbon has something for every traveler seeking an unforgettable solo adventure.

Exploring the Majestic Wilderness of Alaska in Summer

Alaska in summer is a paradise for nature lovers. Its national parks , such as Denali and Kenai Fjords, showcase breathtaking beauty. Wildlife sightings, including bears, moose, and bald eagles, add excitement to the experience.

Thrilling outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, and kayaking await adventure enthusiasts. Witness the stunning glaciers and embark on a scenic cruise through the Inside Passage. Immerse yourself in the rich Native American culture and history of this land. Alaska in summer is a solo vacation destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list.

The Unique Aquatic Adventures in Galapagos Islands

Explore the crystal-clear waters of the Galapagos Islands and dive into unique aquatic adventures. Snorkel alongside playful sea lions and swim with graceful sea turtles. Encounter fascinating wildlife like giant tortoises and marine iguanas. Immerse yourself in the diverse ecosystems, from volcanic landscapes to lush forests.

Embark on a cruise around the islands , visiting different ones each day. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution at the Charles Darwin Research Station. The Galapagos Islands offer an unforgettable and one-of-a-kind experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

The Exquisite Beaches of Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Relax on the pristine sandy beaches and bask in the warm Caribbean sun. Dive into the crystal-clear waters and explore the vibrant coral reefs as a solo traveler . Engage in exhilarating water sports like paddleboarding, jet skiing, and kayaking.

Indulge in fresh seafood while immersing yourself in the local culture. Don’t miss the chance to visit Stingray City and swim alongside friendly stingrays. The exquisite beaches of Grand Cayman offer the perfect solo vacation for nature lovers and those seeking their bucket list adventures.

The Thrilling Casino Life in Las Vegas, Nevada

Experience the exhilarating world of renowned casinos and vibrant nightlife that Las Vegas , Nevada has to offer. Immerse yourself in the excitement of high-stakes gambling and try your luck at a variety of thrilling games. In addition to the casinos, Las Vegas offers top-notch entertainment shows featuring famous artists from around the world.

Indulge your taste buds with gourmet dining options at celebrity chef restaurants, or explore the iconic Las Vegas Strip with its dazzling landmarks and attractions. After a long day of excitement, unwind and pamper yourself with luxurious spa treatments at one of the city’s renowned resorts.

The Tranquil Retreats in Maui, Hawaii

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Maui’s pristine beaches and captivating turquoise waters. Explore the scenic Road to Hana and discover breathtaking waterfalls cascading down lush landscapes. Indulge in exhilarating outdoor activities like snorkeling, surfing, and hiking along the island’s picturesque trails.

Immerse yourself in traditional Hawaiian culture through mesmerizing hula dance performances and unforgettable luau celebrations. Unwind and rejuvenate at luxurious resorts that offer impeccable service and stunning ocean views. Maui, Hawaii is the perfect tranquil retreat for nature lovers seeking a solo vacation in paradise.

Organized Tours for Solo Travelers Over 40

Explore new destinations and embark on a solo vacation with like-minded individuals through organized tours designed specifically for singles over 40. By joining a group of fellow solo travelers, you can create lasting memories and forge new friendships along the way.

These tours offer the opportunity to discover hidden gems and immerse yourself in the local culture through guided tours and activities. With accommodations, transportation, and activities all taken care of, you can relax and enjoy your trip without any stress. Experienced tour guides provide their expertise and knowledge, ensuring a seamless and enriching travel experience.

Benefits of Organized Tours for Single Travelers

Organized tours for single travelers offer a range of benefits. By joining a group tour, you can avoid the hassle of planning and organizing every detail of your trip. Additionally, traveling in a group setting can provide a sense of safety and security, especially when exploring unfamiliar places.

Another advantage is the opportunity to make new friends and connections with other solo travelers on the tour. Group bookings also grant access to exclusive experiences and discounts. Ultimately, by entrusting logistics and arrangements to someone else, you can enjoy a stress-free and convenient travel experience.

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Tips for Single Travelers Over 40

When planning solo vacations for singles over 40, it’s important to do thorough research on your destination to ensure it aligns with your interests and preferences. Pack light, bringing versatile clothing and accessories suitable for various activities and weather conditions.

Stay flexible and open-minded to make the most of unexpected opportunities. Utilize technology and travel apps for navigation and staying connected. Prioritize self-care and relaxation during your trip to avoid burnout. Embrace your solo adventure and make unforgettable memories.

How to Make the Most of a Solo Adventure

When embarking on a solo vacation, embrace the solitude that comes with it. Use it as an opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth. Step out of your comfort zone and try new activities or experiences that have always been on your bucket list.

Engaging with the local community and immersing yourself in the culture of your destination will provide a deeper understanding. Capture memories through photography or journaling to document your solo adventure. Be open to meeting new people and forming connections along the way.

Keeping Loneliness at Bay: Books and Podcasts

During your solo vacation, make sure to bring along your favorite books or download podcasts to keep yourself entertained during quiet moments. Dive into travel-related literature or listen to inspiring stories of solo travelers to fuel your wanderlust and learn more about the history and culture of your destination.

Join virtual book clubs or online communities to connect with fellow travelers and discuss your favorite reads. Expand your knowledge and interests through reading and listening, ensuring that loneliness is kept at bay.

Accommodation Options for Solo Travelers Over 40

When it comes to accommodation options for solo travelers over 40, there are several factors to consider. For budget-friendly options and the opportunity to meet other travelers, staying in hostels can be a great choice. On the other hand, hotels provide added privacy, comfort, and amenities.

If you’re looking for a more personalized experience, boutique hotels offer unique ambiance and impeccable service. It’s important to research and read reviews to find accommodations that cater to solo travelers and provide a safe and welcoming environment. Additionally, choosing accommodations located in convenient and central areas can maximize your exploration time.

Choosing Between Hostels, Hotels, and Boutique Hotels

When it comes to choosing accommodation for your solo vacation, you have a range of options to consider. Hostels are a great choice for budget-conscious travelers and those looking to meet new people. With affordable prices and a social atmosphere, they provide an opportunity to connect with other like-minded individuals.

On the other hand, hotels offer comfort, privacy, and a wide range of amenities for a more relaxed and independent stay. If you’re looking for a unique and intimate experience, boutique hotels are the way to go. With personalized service and distinctive design, they offer a touch of luxury and exclusivity.

When making your decision, don’t forget to consider the location and accessibility of each accommodation option to make the most of your solo adventure. Take into account your preferences for social interaction and privacy, ensuring that you choose the option that suits your needs best.

Read Also: 

Hotels at Universal Orlando – Our Top 8 Picks

Hotels vs Motels: What’s The Difference?

How to Make Solo Dining an Enjoyable Experience?

Indulge in new flavors and dishes by trying local cuisine. Find highly recommended restaurants or hidden gems. Interact with other solo diners or friendly staff by dining at communal tables or bar counters. Make the experience more enjoyable by bringing a book or people-watching. Join food tours or cooking classes to meet fellow food enthusiasts and learn about the local culinary culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular vacation destinations for singles over 40.

– Popular vacation destinations for singles over 40 include Paris, New York City, and Miami .

– Adventure trips such as hiking in Machu Picchu or exploring the Galapagos Islands are also popular.

– Solo travel groups and organized tours provide opportunities to meet new people. Ultimately, the best destination depends on personal preferences and interests.

Are there any travel companies or services that cater specifically to solo travelers over 40?

Yes, there are travel companies and services that cater specifically to solo travelers over 40. Some popular ones include Solo Traveler, Flash Pack, and Just You. These companies offer tours and packages designed for solo travelers, often with group activities and accommodations. Research different options to find the best fit for your travel style and budget.

How can I ensure my safety while traveling alone as a single person over 40?

Ensure your safety while traveling alone as a single person over 40 by thoroughly researching your destination beforehand. Opt for well-reviewed accommodations with good security measures and avoid unsafe areas, especially at night. Consider joining group tours or using reputable transportation services for added safety.

What are some tips for meeting new people and making connections while on a solo vacation?

Meeting new people and making connections on a solo vacation can be exciting. Stay in hostels or shared accommodations to meet other travelers. Join group activities like walking tours or cooking classes. Use social media and dating apps to connect with locals or fellow solo travelers. Don’t hesitate to strike up conversations while exploring.

In conclusion, traveling solo can be a liberating and enriching experience, especially for singles over 40. It is an opportunity to explore new destinations, embrace adventure, and discover oneself. Whether you choose the charming streets of Bellagio in Italy , the vibrant city life of Seville in Spain, or the hidden gems of Lisbon in Portugal, there are endless possibilities for unforgettable experiences.

Additionally, organized tours can provide a sense of community and convenience for solo travelers, while choosing the right accommodation and making dining a pleasurable experience can enhance the journey even further. So pack your bags, step out of your comfort zone, and embark on a solo adventure that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

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Ferona Jose is a passionate travel writer and blogger at Travelistia. She has traveled throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas. Her writing focuses on cheap travel destinations, travel experiences, cultural insights, and travel hacks.

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33 Best holiday ideas for singles over 40 in 2023

Are you single and in your 40s? Are your friends all in relationships or with small kids and not available or keen to travel?

Don’t let that stop you from that dream trip, we’re here to help you with holiday ideas for travelers like you, single and over 40. 

• 1 Traveling solo after 40 
• 2 How to plan your holiday as a single traveler
• 3 Best group trips for singles over 40
• 4 Best vacation spots for singles over 40
• 5 Conclusion

Traveling solo after 40 

While age is just a number, there are some things that also evolve with time.

With age usually comes financial freedom, maturity and the hardship of getting over jetlag, I know that all too well! 

While you are still young (very young, if I may add), traveling in your 40s is not the same as traveling in your 20s or 30s.

You are most likely not looking to party it out all night long, sleeping at the beach or hitchhiking to save a few pennies, you are also not necessarily up to make a fool of yourself, or at least not all the time. 

Your taste is more refined, your interests wider and your purse thicker.

You are also most likely looking for deeper experiences that enrich your life, teach you something new or maybe provide a break from the daily busy life and less about partying all night long. You know what you want from life, and travel is it.

On the flip side, with age also comes confidence, and lack of patience.

You no longer need other people’s approval and you also don’t need a travel companion to go places.

You do your groceries alone, you live alone, you dine alone and you lead a fulfilling life all by yourself, you are your best travel companion and you are ready to continue living life to the fullest. 

Because your friends may be married and with kids, they can no longer afford, time-wise and financially, to travel as much as you, so you are keen to find a new tribe of like minded travelers who are also single and over 40 and who share your passion for discovering the world and have minimal family responsibilities. 

If all of the above resonates with you, you’ve come to the right place. And let me add, going on a singles holiday does not necessarily mean that you are looking for love (though you may still find it), but that you are looking to be surrounded by people like you or at a destination that is specifically catered to singles or which is just perfect for this moment in your life, solo or with newfound friends.

More and more Gen Xers are leading the return to travel , especially independently and solo and a lot of the women joining our women-only tours are in their 40s and either single or divorced, they are not letting the lack of travel companions stop them from traveling, they are treating themselves to a fabulous trip with other travelers like them. 

Find your perfect holiday for singles over 40 in this article and book that trip of a lifetime, you deserve it.

How to plan your holiday as a single traveler

Planning a trip can be complicated and confusing but before we jump right into choosing the right trip, it’s important to take a few minutes to think about what you can do and what you are trying to get out of it.

• What is your budget?
• Do you want to travel solo independently or join a group?
• What type of trip are you looking for? A more adventurous, a relaxing one, a culturally-focused one, or perhaps a foodie trip with lots of gastronomic experiences and maybe some wine tastings too?

A budget is usually the starting point when planning vacation at any age. It will help you set the tone for the type of trip you’ll have, the duration and help you weed out some options, such as the kind of tours available to you.

If you have a budget for the holiday, keep that in mind when going through the rest of this section to filter ideas and suggestions. If you don’t have a budget and are trying to save, check out some of our tips on how to save money for travel .

Travel style

The next decision is your travel style. Are you more of a solo traveler who prefers to travel independently or would you like to join a group tour where everything is planned for you and you can meet other travelers?

We are passionate advocates of solo travel and our Solo Female Travelers Facebook Group is the place to get help, support and advice for your first or your next solo trip at any age. A large percentage of our members are in their 40s and looking to go on a trip so you are sure to find yourself among your tribe. Go on, ask that question!

On the other hand, a lot of single travelers prefer to join group tours so that they can more easily meet others and reduce some of the burden of planning a trip by letting someone else do it for them. Traveling on your own means you need to do all the planning and this can require a lot of hours researching which not everyone enjoys.

Many of the guests on our small women-only tours for solo travelers like to book with us because of the convenience of knowing we put together trips that include the type of experiences they enjoy and where they meet like minded women, without having to spend hours finding the best activities, restaurants and local places.

In the next section, we will look at companies like ours that specialise in solo trips and have an age threshold.

Type of trip

Now that you know your budget and travel style, it’s time to narrow down your options a bit more by looking at the kind of trip you feel like going on.

There are many types of holidays for singles over 40 and if you asked 10 people you would most likely get 10 different answers, from a wellness retreat to an active holiday, a beach vacation, a city break and anything in between, if you can dream it, it is possible. 

In fact, we did ask our members and got more than 100 suggestions each different and unique. 

What’s your personality like? What is the purpose of your vacation? What are your interests? How much time do you have? What do you feel like? What do you want to get out of it>

Don’t let the fact that you are single stop you from choosing the vacation you most want, you can go party or to a festival alone or you can go to traditional honeymoon destinations like the Maldives or Bora Bora if that is what you fancy, we’ve done it and we don’t regret it. 

Like an inspirational quote we love says:

“They called it loneliness, she knew it was freedom” – F.E. Marie

Here are some types of trips for singles over 40 to consider, the sky’s the limit:

• Active travel: This is for adventure seekers or for those who want to challenge themselves. Want to hike Kilimanjaro ? Don’t let the lack of a travel companion stop you from doing it!
• Luxury travel: A luxury trip is the ultimate in self pampering and is a great opportunity to let someone else take care of you, be it with a margarita by the poolside, a specially customized menu or a private guide and driver to take you where your heart desires.
• Sailing: A sailing trip is a great and efficient way to cover many destinations in just a few days and have an all inclusive experience on board. Cruises often offer great holiday packages for singles over 40 and are awesome places to meet fellow single travelers and have a blast onboard and onshore. 
• Wellness retreat : While we tend to associate wellness retreats with luxury trips, the two are not necessarily the same. Some retreats can be very affordable and provide a more rustic back to basics experience which does not make them any less appealing. There is a wide range of wellness retreats, from silent retreats to yoga retreats, detox holidays and everything in between. While these are not necessarily singles-only experiences, it is true that they tend to attract solo travelers more than couples and so you may find yourself surrounded by people like you.
• Gastronomic travel : We are big fans of traveling for food and wine and will do it anytime. There are many parts of the world where this kind of trip is becoming more and more popular and destinations where enjoying culinary experiences is more commonplace such as Italy , Spain or France. For example, our Tuscany trip has a heavy gastronomic component weaved into other cultural activities. 

What is it that you are looking for in your vacation as a single? Think about it as you move through the rest of the article.

Best group trips for singles over 40

Small group trips are an excellent choice for single travelers over 40s.

They offer a great way to enjoy travel in a setting where meeting others is easier and the fact that there is a predefined itinerary means you know what you’ll get to see and do without having to spend hours planning it. 

Additionally, you won’t need to worry about tours or activities needing a minimum number of guests, places charging you more because you are on your own or restaurants refusing service because it’s just you (yep, that is regularly reported by members of our online community ).

Where to start looking for the right travel groups for singles over 40? 

In the list below.

Women-only tours

Perhaps one of the most fun ways to travel is with like minded women with whom you can gossip, share a drink, have a laugh or simply identify with. The camaraderie and good vibes are endless.

Solo Female Travelers Tours

We curate our own intimate group tours specifically for solo female travelers and take our guests beyond the tourist hot spots to experience the local culture with a group of like minded women. 

We specifically focus on destinations where it’s usually too expensive or difficult to travel as a female alone, or where we know a group makes for a more fun experience. 

If you come solo, we pair you up with another woman so that no-one has to pay a single supplement and can cut out that extra cost. If you wish to, you can also upgrade to a single room.

Women from many different ages come to our tours, but the most popular age range is that of women in their 40s, many of whom are divorced or have never been married and can’t be bothered to wait for anyone else to go on that trip of a lifetime. 

You can view all our upcoming trips on our tours page . We have many travel styles included in our trips, some focus on wellness and luxury, while others are full of adventure and wildlife. 

Read : The 25 best women-only tour companies .

Group trips for solo women over 40

Traveling solo but in a group guarantees a memorable trip and is a fun and convenient way to travel.

All the planning, itineraries and accommodations are all set up so you don’t have to worry about anything and focus on having an amazing holiday. 

Solos Holidays

With more than 40 years of experience, UK-based Solos Holidays is a tour company that offers especially crafted holidays designed for single and solo travelers. 

They focus on creating sociable experiences where one can travel independently, but with the convenience of traveling in a group and having a tour leader. 

Solos Holidays have tour destinations across the world in Europe, America, Australia, Asia, The Caribbean and Africa. They have a mix of ages in their tours, but the majority of guests are above 40 years old. 

In order to appeal to a wider range of travelers, they have many holiday types with specific activities that match almost any interest.

There are group tours for the active which include activities such as hiking, cycling, water sports, yoga, golf, whale watching. They also have ClubSolos which is an exclusive tour in luxurious accommodation.

Exodus Travels has their own section of solo holidays for travelers in their 30s and 40s called Exodus Edits . 

Their tours are unique experiences such as cycling in Croatia or hiking in Morocco, that guarantee you’ll have the best time and share memorable moments with like-minded people in whatever activity level you choose: leisurely, moderate or challenging. Compare the tours and find the one that matches your interests.

Have a detox of the ordinary and make the most of your singles vacation going to a bucket list trip like Pyramids and Pharaohs in Egypt, Cabernet and Capers in South Africa or Street food and Sunshine in Sicily. 

Rick Steves

Rick Steves is an American expert in European travel and has a best seller guidebook series, a travel column, a TV show and a radio show.

His company offers tours throughout Europe and focuses on fun, affordable and culturally broadening trips. There are tours with a large group size, while others limit to small groups. His travel groups were recommended by members of our Facebook group.  

Some of their top sellers tours are Heart of Italy, Best of Paris and Best of Ireland. 

Insight Vacations

Insight Vacations is a tour company that curates premium small group trips. Their mission is to make you travel in style, in trips that are fancier than most tour companies and offer high-end accommodation, fine dining, and unique experiences. 

They offer unusual and fascinating experiences in many of their tours like Twirling on the dance floor in Vienna, savoring Egyptian sun bread in a local village and learning about Oyster farms in Croatia. Groups are usually small but go as high as 40 members.

Their top destinations are Croatia, Switzerland and Italy. Don’t miss their special savings and discounts exclusively for solo travelers.

Wellness retreats for women over 40

Feeling like you need to recharge?

Disconnect to reconnect with yourself in an amazing retreat holiday, an ideal holiday for singles over 40 looking for an enriching experience, balance and relaxation. 

Take a break from the ordinary and embark on a wellness adventure, the destinations to choose from are plenty!

We recommend these companies to book your next retreat holiday.

Tripaneer is a travel booking marketplace and they have their own retreat platform called BookYogaRetreats . 

In this site, you’ll be able to find yoga retreats, holidays and courses in destinations all over the world including The Americas and Caribbean, Asia, Oceania, Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

Tripaneer has a wide array of retreat options, the main ones being yoga retreats , detox retreats and meditation retreats . 

If you need a reset and want to enjoy a wellness trip, check out these uniquely crafted retreats like a 6 Day Solo Traveler Package Holiday in Mexico or an 8 Day Deluxe Massage, Surf, Hike and Yoga Holiday in Portugal.

Tripaneer is a well trusted travel company which will connect you with the best of local culture in any destination, so you can have an unforgettable and enriching holiday. 

Fivelements in Bali

Fivelements Retreat Bali is an eco-conscious wellness retreat located on the banks of the Ayung River in Bali.

This is a place where you can encounter authentic Balinese Healing, plant-based cuisine and sacred arts. 

A great holiday destination for singles over 40, Fivelements offers a mix of healing cultures with innovative wellness concepts.

You can choose from different types of experiences like a personalized private wellness retreat, a wellness day, detox programs with plant-based cuisine, culinary experiences, etc. 

The accommodation options are nothing but luxury! Stay in stunning riverfront or hillside suites with pools and gardens. If you want something out of the ordinary, set off for a relaxing holiday in this wellness sanctuary, rooted in the Balinese culture.  

Chiva Som in Thailand

“A beautiful sanctuary where enrichment thrives and lives change”.

Recommended by our group members, Chiva Som is a place with a holistic approach to wellness, with two resorts located in Thailand and Qatar. 

The brand offers carefully curated retreat experiences, which include daily activities and treatments, for every kind of interest and health concerns.

You can search for your ideal retreat experience based on your goals, which can be relaxation, emotional and mental balance, detox, beauty, physical fitness, among others. 

If you’re looking forward to embarking on a journey that benefits your health and life, choose a retreat holiday in Chiva Som. Some of their most popular experiences are Art of Detox, Natural Renewal, Senior Wellness and Cranial Relief.  

BodyHoliday

BodyHoliday is a luxury wellness resort located in the Caribbean island of Saint Lucia.

With a stunning beach, luxurious rooms and delicious cuisine, this spa resort focuses on well being and providing a pleasing holiday to every guest.

A fab thing about them is that a daily spa treatment is included with your room rate, so it’s the perfect holiday to let go, relax and recharge your mind. 

Each of their retreats is fully inclusive of luxury accommodation (with no single supplement), food and beverage, as well as all the activities related to the retreat you’ve chosen.

There’s a wide range of things to experience at the BodyHoliday, so if you wish to do something in your free time, take a yoga class or learn how to do Tai Chi all is possible.

You can choose from many exercise or wellness activities and the good news is the majority are included!

Our group member Lucy shared her review: “I have just had a week at The BodyHoliday St. Lucia. It is my first venture into holidaying alone and they make it very easy. There are activities from 7 am until 5 pm. Treatments included daily and communal tables if you want to make friends or have someone to chat about your day! A fabulous first venture into solo travel in my 40s”.

Escape to Shape

Feel like doing a full-on fitness trip to Lake Como, Italy?

Escape to Shape specializes in curating high-end wellness experiences that include luxury, sustainability, fitness and relaxation. 

Erica and Francesco, the company’s owners, put a lot of effort in planning and hosting each trip, with the ultimate goal of making sure travelers immerse in the local culture, have a positive impact on the local economy and make new friendships. 

All the trips have small groups which enjoy an enriching holiday and return home feeling refreshed and recharged. Additionally, you will travel sustainably and have contact with local guides and stay in environmentally friendly accommodations. 

If you’re feeling like you need a holiday escape, set off on one of their most popular tours like Markets, Magic & Mountains in Morocco, Multi Sport Adventure in Slovenia and A Journey Through Rajasthan in India. 

Retreat in the Pines

Retreat in the Pines has been hosting women retreats since 2004 in the beautiful piney woods of East Texas and the majority of their guests are solo travelers in their 40s and over. 

Their retreats include a variety of activities like yoga, meditation, hiking, wellness workshops, cooking classes, massages and more in small groups of 10-12 women, so the experience is personal and you get to meet like minded women and form connections and friendships. 

What we love about this company is that they are a female owned business and are committed to creating an ethical and environmentally aware retreat center. As they state on their website, “You are accepted as your authentic self – there’s no need for fancy yoga clothes and you don’t need to touch your toes”. 

So, if you’re longing for a solo holiday that involves community, attend one of their retreats, in which you’ll find healing, inspiration and connection. Retreat in the Pines has a very welcoming atmosphere, where every woman is supported and encouraged, without any judgement.

Fit & Fly

Editor’s note : Fit & Fly doesn’t currently offer any trips.

A company founded by attorney and travel writer Rebecca, Fit & Fly  creates fitness, wellness and cultural retreats in fascinating destinations. They empower women to take special care of themselves and make meaningful connections with other women. 

If you want to try an active vacation where you workout and relax at the same time, this is the travel company for you. The retreats include stylish accommodation, fitness classes, delicious eats, wellness activities, spa experiences, cultural excursions and more.

Fit & Fly has a supportive environment and instructors that make workouts challenging but doable depending on the guest’s capabilities.

The company welcomes women from all ages, though the majority of their guests are in their 40s & 50s, this makes it one of the best wellness tours for singles over 40.

Their top retreat destinations are Bali, Ibiza and Maldives, with a few more exotic places to choose from. 

Trips for women over 40 who want to be in the water

If your perfect getaway involves being near the water, go for a sailing adventure or a river cruise holiday. 

These trips are an incredible way to enjoy stunning sunsets and sea views, do snorkeling and excursions, and meet new people on board a catamaran, yacht or cruise (if you go fancy). Unpack once, visit many cities! 

Another World Adventures

Larissa, one of our group members , has a tour company called Another World Adventures that offers many sailing trips around the world.

We hosted an interview with her , in which she shared an experience that changed her life: she sailed a 100 year old tall ship during a transatlantic sailing voyage from Europe to Brazil. 

Larissa had an exciting sailing journey and this inspired her to launch her own company and offer genuine sailing expeditions.

“I organize sailing adventures on all kinds of boats from coastal exploring to ocean voyages. Most of the folk joining are solo and it’s always good times” she shared with us.”

This is a terrific choice if you want to have an out-of-the-box holiday experience. 

Another World Adventures has sailing trips with different activity levels, from sitting back and enjoying the ride, to learning new skills and helping sail tall ships, and of all durations, from a few days adventure to an over a month expedition. 

This trip will take you all over the world, from Scandinavia and the Arctic, to Europe, or Central America & the Caribbean. Sailing can be great for a single holiday, and you can choose from a variety of trip experiences like a digital detox, a wildlife encounter or going big and sailing across the Atlantic.  

AmaWaterways River Cruises

With 19 years of experience, AmaWaterways offers river cruises with fascinating itineraries in many destinations throughout the world, they even have special themed cruises like Safaris and Wildlife in Africa, Wine river cruises and Christmas river cruises in Europe. 

AmaWaterways are a great choice for a solo traveler over 40 thanks to their Solo Travelers Special , which includes ways to save on your solo booking: 25% single supplement on balcony staterooms or 10% single supplement on fixed window staterooms on select Europe and Asia river cruises.

The Solo Travelers Special also includes personalized crew service and assistance with planning excursions. 

If you have a week to take for your single holiday, the 7-nights Melodies of the Danube or the 7-nights Vineyards of the Rhine and Moselle are exceptional choices and some of their most popular cruises.

Diving and sailing onboard the Tui Tai

While not necessarily a trip designed for solo travelers who are older than 40, the Tui Tai offers unparalleled beauty in one of the least visited parts of Fiji.

You board their tall ship and embark on 5 or 7 days of daily diving or snorkeling, cultural exploration of the main local tribes, nature and hiking and great onboard food. 

If you are not a qualified diver yet you can get your certification there, our Co-Founder Mar did, and we promise you that you will never dive anywhere as magical.

Swim among mantas, dive the most colorful soft corals, and explore a part of Polynesia that has yet to be flooded with tourists.

If you come on your own, we promise that the crew will take care of you and the family-style meals and excursions means you will always be in good company.

Trips for women over 40 who want to learn

If you are intellectually curious, an educational holiday is perfect for you.

In these group trips, travel is an enriching experience that is made better by the in-depth learning opportunities, plus you are already starting on the right foot since everyone on the trip shares the same interest for the topic or culture and a love of culture.

Road Scholar

A not-for-profit organization, Road Scholar is an innovative company that creates educational traveling experiences. 

As they state on their website, they are “a diverse community of knowledge seekers and explorers, united in the belief that lifelong learning is a vital part of overall wellbeing”. 

Road Scholar specializes in learning trips for people of 40+ years old and Kelsey Knoedler Perri, PR Director at Road Scholar, told us that almost 30% of their travelers in 2021 came solo and 80% of them were women. 

Their portfolio offers thousands of adventures in more than 100 countries. Immerse yourself in the Latin American ambience going on their South American Odyssey (Brazil, Argentina, Chile and Peru), discover Morocco and their Melting Pot of Cultures, or dive into the Cultural Highlights of Japan. 

They have a massive variety of destinations, travel styles and trip lengths, and they also offer a roommate option to avoid paying a full single supplement.

This is a very unique way to have a single holiday, focused on learning about the destinations, connecting with new people, and making the best of your vacation. 

Trips for women over 40 who want to learn a new skill 

Want to learn how to cook in Italy? Or how to paint in Spain? If you want your next holiday to add value to your life, go on a learning adventure to an exciting destination. 

There are many companies who specialize in learning holidays where you take classes, courses and activities, while immersing yourself in the local culture and meeting new people . It’s a fantastic way to invest in yourself and explore the world at the same time.

Look at these great options for a learning experience holiday. 

Creative Escapes

Since 2007, this award-winning company has offered photography holidays to amazing destinations worldwide. 

Creative Escapes bring together travelers in their 40s and 50s and take them on small group tours, in which they learn something new while meeting travelers with similar interests. Also, 95% of their guests travel solo, so it’s a perfect holiday for singles. 

We love the company’s concept: hand-built luxury photography holidays. 

Creative Escapes itineraries are focused on hidden gems that only locals know, so they tend to stay off the main and touristy landmarks, and instead take you to the best spots, bars and eateries of every destination. 

They have short haul tours of 5 days and long haul tours of 10-11 days long.

Their destination picks are exotic and unique, with trips to Nepal, Cambodia, Cuba, Costa Rica, Japan, Morocco and Bhutan. Along with, they also offer more specific locations and experiences like a tour to the Sahara desert, the Holi Festival in India or Yosemite Park in the United States. 

Barcelona-based Apertour offers professional photography workshops to some of the most exotic and photogenic destinations such as Oman, the Faroe Islands or Japan.

Group are very small and focus on personal attention with often 2 professional photographers for a group of 7 guests, honing in on the photography skills you’ll learn.

If you don’t want to go on a longer trip, they also offer city based photo workshops that are shorter in nature (2 to 6 hours), and will give you a different perspective on the place you are visiting, or live in.

Flavours Holidays

Operating since 1998, Flavours Holidays offers unique learning tours for solo travelers: quality cooking, painting, pilates, language and photography holidays. 

All the trip destinations are picturesque sites in Italy, Spain and the UK, where guests can learn from passionate chefs and experienced tutors. All their tours are custom-made for solo travelers, with over 80% of their guests traveling solo. 

The good news is they don’t charge single supplements, so you can have a comfy room for yourself.

Our top pick is the cooking holiday in Italy, they have options in many Italian sites: Tuscany, Puglia, Amalfi, Venice, Bologna and Sicily. 

Other great options for your singles holiday can be a painting tour in Andalusia, Spain or in the Scottish Highlands. These holidays are perfect for singles over 40 who want to learn something new while discovering places and cultures.  

The Himalayan Writing Retreat

The Himalayan Writing Retreat is a homestay-style accommodation in the Himalayas often frequented by those looking to write a book or pursue other artistic endeavours in peace and quiet that offers writing workshops and retreats with set departures.

Workshops are usually 4 days long and delivered by professionals. You can then choose to stay at the retreat longer. Food is offered on site and the beautiful surroundings are sure to inspire you.

Trips for women over 40 who are digital nomads

One of the best ways to enjoy life and immerse yourself in a new culture is by spending some time there living like a local.

If you are single and have the opportunity to work from anywhere (thanks COVID) you should consider moving somewhere else for a month and having a taste for what local life there is like.

We like the formula that is put together by companies such as Remote Year which allow you to work in a different country every month for 4 to 12 months depending on the program or even for as short as a week for their Unplug version. Or you can book a shorter stint with Unsettled which starts at 1 week only.

While these programs tend to attract younger travelers who are starting their digital nomad life journey and are looking for a community to keep them accountable, they can also be a great way to enjoy a fun-filled break without taking any annual leave.

Best vacation spots for singles over 40

We asked our wonderful community to share recommendations of the best destinations for a single holiday. Here are the top picks to have an epic vacation for travelers over 40, based on their personal experience.

Kilimanjaro climbing adventure in Tanzania

Instead of spending your savings on a mid-life crisis Porsche, do something challenging and potentially more rewarding and prove to yourself that you still have it with a mindset and physical challenge.

Nothing says achievement and self fulfilment like getting to the top of a really high mountain while supporting local women.

Our Kilimanjaro climb takes a maximum of 14 women to the Roof of Africa. Besides the beautiful landscapes with free roaming wildlife, the vistas and the fact that you get up and close with a high altitude glacier, the expedition is a once in a lifetime opportunity to do something that is not only physically challenging but which puts your mental strength to the test.

All our guests come to the trip solo and make lifelong connections with the guides, porters and the rest of the female trekkers. There is something very special about bonding over a challenge that seems insurmountable only to conquer your fears and anxieties together.

What is more, our trip donates $200 for each booking to the Tanzania Women Guides Foundation and supports women receiving training to become guides so you will be making a difference in future generations of women in tourism. 

We have so far helped train more than 50 women and are completely changing the tourism landscape in the country with more women joining a 100% male dominated industry.

Challenge yourself and challenge stereotypes while changing lives.

A bucket list country for a solo trip, Thailand is a very popular and affordable destination. Locals are very welcoming, there is a stream of solo travelers of all ages and safety is not generally a concern. No wonder this is one of the top destinations for a first solo trip according to our Solo Female Travelers Survey.

Why is Thailand a great destination for single women over 40?

Thailand truly is a great destination for all ages and stages of life but we find it an especially interesting place to visit as a single woman over 40 because of the many fabulous luxury resorts at affordable prices where you can be spoiled rotten.

Try delicious Thai food, get massages at an affordable price and wander among temples and palaces. Once you have had your fix of the cultural side, take yourself on a beautiful beach holiday, Thailand is home to stunning stretches of white sand and numerous islands. 

If a wellness retreat is what you are after, Thailand has a huge selection, from the luxury retreat at Chiva Som mentioned above to the Thai boxing detox getaways in Phuket. 

Spain is a very tourist-friendly country with lots of beautiful places to visit and Barcelona is a wonderful destination for singles over 40 to indulge in great gastronomy and immerse themselves in beautiful architecture and ancient culture. 

Why is Barcelona a great destination for single women over 40?

In the words of one of our group members, Marta, “I think Barcelona is a great place if you are in your 40s and single; lots of parties all night long, lots of culture, delicious food and good weather all year round”. 

And we agree!

That’s why we take our only-women small group tours to Barcelona & Beyond . If you’re into an awesome nightlife and live atmosphere, set off to Barcelona where you can enjoy the city and the beach in the same place, plus acclaimed architecture and art museums.

Want to learn more and get our insider scoop on Barcelona and Catalonia? 

Our Co-Founder Mar is a local and has shared with us all the insights and hidden gems of the city. Go check out our detailed guide on everything you need to know about Barcelona and Catalonia : the must-visit sites, local spots, day trips, how to get around and much more. 

Join our Solo Female Travelers Tours to Barcelona

Rich in history and culture, Turkey has everything to amaze the traveler and whimsical locations such as Cappadocia that have become the stuff of dreams.

Although we do think Turkey is great at all ages, we do find it a destination that is perfect for those who are single and over the age of 40. 

Why is Turkey a great destination for single women over 40?

We find that the “mid-life crisis” can be fabulous in Turkey. Book a hammam appointment, indulge in fresh Mediterranean cuisine, sleep at a luxury hotel by the Bosphorus and generally enjoy life.

Sheri, a member of our community, suggests a visit to Istanbul: “The city is enchanting, to me. The people, the air, the Bosporus. The food! There is so much history and beauty there. Sitting on the Bosporus was truly magical”. 

And other members agree that hot air ballooning in Cappadocia with jaw dropping sunrise views is a bucket list experience not to miss. 

Italy has some of the best holiday destinations for singles over 40.

With dreamy sites like Tuscany , Amalfi Coast and Venice , ‘La Bella Italia’ offers outstanding art and architecture, delicious food, enchanting cities and beautiful landscapes.

Why is Italy a great destination for single women over 40?

It’s easy to see how Italy is such a great destination for women over 40. So many movies, books and stories feature women finding love, life and their purpose in life in Italy. There must be something in the ancient architecture, the wonderful nature and the food that causes all that!

Beyond the magic, Italy has lots of things to do so it’s a great choice for anyone, younger or older, but women over 40 are particularly well catered for by the culture, the food and the many old-world luxury properties.

Some great options are: wine tasting, winery visits and gastronomic experiences in Tuscany , walking the picturesque pastel-colored city centers of the Amalfi Coast , exploring the narrow alleys of the eternal city of Venice , taking a road trip in Sicily, or visiting renowned art galleries and museums in Rome.

Regarding accommodation, Italy offers a wide variety of places to stay from hostels to stylish villas to excellent hotels. Traveling within Italy is very easy and safe, with high-speed trains that can take you across the country in a few hours.

Renting a car is also a great option, roadtrips in Italy offer breathtaking views and landscapes and can take you from the mountains to the sea.

Have an Italian holiday if you’re looking to enjoy life in a foodie heaven filled with outstanding art, architecture and scenery.

Join our women only tours to Italy

A vast country with many exciting destinations, Mexico is full of charming cities, delicious food and lots of fun.

Why is Mexico a great destination for single women over 40?

While Mexico is a destination for all ages, it is true that it makes for a great trip if you are single and in your 40s or older because of how rich the heritage is.

According to Margunn, member of our Facebook group, “It’s a mix of everything. So much history, good food, nice beaches, handsome men, culture and music, beautiful nature, fun parties, friendly people. I always felt so welcomed in Mexico”. 

Home to 35 UNESCO-listed World Heritage sites, Mexico has an ideal city for every travel style, with popular destinations being the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico City and the quaint town of San Miguel de Allende or the foodie-central city of Oaxaca.  

If you’re willing to do an all-inclusive vacation on the beach, Mexico has some of the best resorts for singles over 40 such as Grand Velas Los Cabos , Hotel Xcaret Playa del Carmen and UNICO Hotel Riviera Maya will pamper you and give you everything you need for a fabulous vacation.

Safari adventure in Tanzania

A once in a lifetime experience, going on safari in Tanzania is an incredible option for an adventure holiday and a fantastic way to celebrate your 40s!

Why is a safari a great trip for single women over 40?

This is one of our top seller tour for solo female travelers , where we enjoy wildlife through the Ngorongoro Region and Central Serengeti, and also have time to relax on the beach in Zanzibar.

Tanzania has wonderful wildlife and many safari options across the country, it’s almost guaranteed you’ll observe lions, giraffes, elephants, hippos, wildebeest, chimpanzees and many more animals in their natural habitat.

Besides exciting safaris, there’s plenty to do in Tanzania like discovering more about their history and culture by chatting with the friendly locals, meet red-cloaked Maasai people or enjoying the stunning beaches in Zanzibar.

Tanzania is also the ideal destination for all single climbers and trekkers out there, with the opportunity to climb to Mt. Kilimanjaro ‘s summit, otherwise known as ‘The top of Africa’.

Join our women-only tours to Tanzania

A group of islands in the Indian Ocean, with stunning beaches and luxury resorts, Maldives is an ideal vacation spot for single women over 40, trust us, you don’t have to wait for that special someone to enjoy it.

Go book that Maldives trip, and have a honeymoon with yourself, you deserve it!

Seneca, our group member, says: “It’s the furthest I’ve ever traveled and it’s a destination people tend to “save” for when they have a husband or boyfriend. I was single, it was my 45th birthday and I took myself on a solo birthday celebration. It was a bucket list trip and it was amazing”.

Why are the Maldives a great destination for single women over 40?

The Maldives is no longer a couple’s destination. Some resorts have started to offer single’s packages and there are lots of friends and families vacationing there and even “party” islands where singles come together.

Check out the solo packages from luxury resort Gili Lankanfushi , which was also one of the first resorts to pioneer the overwater villa concept.

Suggested by many of our members, Ireland is a marvelous country, very safe for solo female travelers and with a rich cultural heritage and amazing landscapes.

All this and the friendliness of the locals make it a fantastic destination for singles over 40, many of whom come all the way from North America in search of their roots.

Megan said: “It is a very lively and beautiful country; shopping, dining, loads of walking, live singing and dancing in the pubs, tours. The people are so incredibly friendly, kind, helpful, unassuming, lighthearted. I travelled solo and felt very safe and even dining alone”. 

Rexanna added: “The people are the best in the world. Mountains, rugged seasides and cliffs, beaches. Seafood! History and culture. Old architecture. Did I say the people are the friendliest! You can drive yourself anywhere you want to go, getting lost in Ireland is THE MOST FUN!”. 

Why is Ireland a great destination for single women over 40?

Besides the beautiful landscapes, Ireland is known for its lively atmosphere. The country has many events and celebrations throughout the year, so this is the place to meet people while dancing the night away.

In January, Dublin hosts the largest festival of traditional music in Ireland, and in March there’s a 5-day St. Patricks celebration.

These are interesting festivities in which you’ll have a good time and learn more about Irish culture during your holiday. 

If you’re into road trips, Ireland is the perfect place to have a scenic drive full of natural beauty and amazing castles. Northern Ireland has attracted many visitors because it was a film location of the popular TV show Game of Thrones. 

Besides Dublin, there are plenty of other lively cities to visit like Galway, Belfast and Cork, in which you will see the rich heritage of the country and try some delicious Irish local food with a modern twist. 

Morocco is a fascinating destination full of color, diversity, and interesting landmarks. We love Morocco, so much that it’s one of the destinations we take our women-only small group tours to.

From ancient medinas to the dunes of the Sahara, Morocco has something for every traveler.

Some of the top sites to visit while in Morocco are: Marrakech medina, the dunes of the Sahara desert, the blue city Chefchaouen, Fez, Ait Ben Haddou (where many Hollywood movies have been filmed), charming Essaouira, Casablanca (don’t miss the impressive Hassan II mosque), and many more.

Why is Morocco a great destination for single women over 40?

While this is a destination for all ages, we consider Morocco a great trip for single women over 40 because of the travel experience you already have.

Street harassment and touting can be overwhelming, especially in Marrakech, so having some experience solo traveling is useful before visiting Morocco.

Besides offering stunning cultural and historical attractions, this is a wonderful place to relax and have a wellness holiday on your own.

Check out Paradis Plage Resort , which is a beautiful complex that offers packages with activities related to spa & wellness, yoga and surf, and the many luxury hotels in Marrakech such as La Maison Arabe , Les Jardins de la Koutoubia , Amanjena or La Sultana .

Join our Solo Female Travelers Tours to Morocco

Right in the coast of the Pacific Ocean in South America, Peru is home to a section of the Amazon rainforest and to magical vestiges like Machu Picchu, an ancient Incan city located in the Andes mountains. 

Why is Peru a great destination for single women over 40?

Like Kilimanjaro , Peru and its many hiking itineraries and trails, are a personal challenge and a spiritual experience many women over 40 choose to go on solo.

One of our group members says: “The people, the different areas (Lima, Arequipa, Cusco, Colca Canyon), the food… just my entire experience. Private horse riding tour through the eucalyptus groves and private ruins above the city of Cusco was my favorite part”.

Culturally diverse and naturally gifted, we find that Peru is a good destination for those who like to have a bit of everything. Not to mention the spotlight the country, and particularly its capital, are getting with regards to culinary creativity and expression .

The Kingdom in the Clouds is one of the most spiritual, peaceful and beautiful countries in the world.

The air is cleaner than anywhere else due to the minimal pollution, the high altitude and the country’s negative carbon production record. The people are calm, and life happens without rush and stress.

Why is Bhutan a great destination for single women over 40?

From the moment you land in Paro you will feel like you are somewhere really special. The many Tibetan Bhudist temples, often constructed without nails, the clear alpine rivers, the untouched forests, the crisp cool air, the clean eating and the simple life, makes this a wonderful solo trip.

However, Bhutan is not for everyone. You can’t backpack or have a budget trip here because the country has imposed a daily fee of $200 per person for visitors , which is why this is probably a destination you need to save up for for a few years.

There are many destinations and holiday ideas for solos over 40, you just need to pick the right one for you.

Whether it is an independent solo trip, a group adventure, a retreat or a real challenge will depend on what you are trying to get out of it.

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Home » Blog » 33 Best holiday ideas for singles over 40 in 2023

I’m a solo traveller in my 40s; here’s why I love group tours

The solo travel bug came early for me, and the courage to act on it came much later.

In my teens and 20s, I daydreamed about going out into the world solo, yet my lack of courage to act on it held me back.

It wasn’t until my 30s that I did act on it. My first solo trip abroad was at the age of 32 with a group trip in New Zealand. I traveled with a group of awesome people I had never met from different parts of the world in the south island of NZ. After that positive experience, I never looked back.

I love solo travel!

Now in my 40s, this is my go-to mode of travel. I prefer solo travel, and a great way to do it is through a group experience either at the beginning of a trip, or for the whole duration. This summer, I did a group trip with Intrepid Travel in Portugal called  Portugal Real Food Adventure, featuring Galicia . T his trip starts at the end of the Camino trail in Santiago de Compostela, Spain and ends in one of my most favourite cities:  Lisbon, Portugal .

Here’s more about it, along with the top 3 reasons why I prefer group travel when solo:

3. Your itinerary is already planned for you, including time on your own

With the Intrepid group trip in Portugal, we had a great schedule lined up for us each day. What I loved about the trip was the nice balance of solo time and time with the group. For example, on our first day in Porto  we were given a general walking tour of key areas in the city and then had a group dinner. It gave us a general feel for the city and was made special thanks to our local leader , Isabel (who was an amazing guide and all-round person).

Porto is Isabel’s hometown, so she gave the group a few insider tips that we would never have found otherwise. Each morning, we had free time to explore on our own or with other people in the group. I really loved having that time to go back and see more of what had interested me in our walking tour.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SOLO TRAVEL WITH INTREPID

2. People on your tour are like-minded and share similar interests

Our tour was food and wine-themed, and it attracted people who love food and wine as much as I do, so a comfortable rapport was established from the start. One dinner we had together stands out in my mind, when we went to the Alentejo Farmstay outside of Lisbon. We ate amazing food that was from the area, and exchanged stories, recipes, and had a few laughs about travelling mishaps!

I learned so much from the other people in the group, about their favourite wines, cooking tips and we had inspiring conversations about other places to travel to drink wine and eat food (of course!).

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A cooking class on the tour

READ MORE: NEVER A THIRD WHEEL: WHY I ALWAYS CHOOSE SOLO TRAVEL WITH INTREPID

1. You meet interesting people that you may never would have met otherwise

One thing I love the most about traveling solo is that you are more open to meeting new people. It gets you out of your comfort zone and motivates you to get to know people who you would never cross paths with otherwise! In my Portugal group trip we came from four different countries all over the world, and were different ages that ranged from 35 to 60+.

My friends on the trip were wonderful people with different life perspectives, but we all shared a common bond: a love for travel.

It was a wonderful way to see the world and expand the perspectives from our daily lives.

Ready to explore the world via small group tour? Here’s everything you need to know about solo travel with Intrepid.

(All images courtesy of Liz Oke and taken on Intrepid’s Real Food Adventure in Portugal .)

Feeling inspired?

Liz Oke is a marketing operations consultant based in Toronto, Canada. She also teaches at SCS at University of Toronto and the Canadian Marketing Association. In her spare time, she rides her bike, hikes, loves to cook and talk about travel. You can find her on the ‘gram at @miss_lizzzzzzz

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25 Fantastic Singles Travel Groups You’ll Love

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 04/04/2024

A few years ago there were hardly any single travel groups that offered options for holidays for one – let alone companies who entirely focused on solo departures and looked at things like no single supplements etc and solo travel groups.

Thank goodness for the growth in singles travelling as now there is a good economic reason for companies to look at developing great offers for those looking for holidays for one.

There are now singles travel groups over 30s, single travel for over 50, singles travel getaways, luxury solo travel tours and singles travel getaways galore.

I will let you know which of these tour companies I have traveled with and which I haven’t – if you then go and do a tour on one of the ones I haven’t been on please do let me know what they are like – and I would love you to write a guest post if you’re up for it.

There are so many options for solo traveling today – here are some great trips for single travelers.

BEST SOLO TOUR OPERATOR: Short on time? You can’t go wrong with Explore which has a section dedicated to solo travel on their website.

30 Singles Travel Groups

Top 3 companies for organised solo travel vacations.

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Explore ✔️ Dedicated Solo Tours ✔️ Small Group Tours ✔️ No single supplement

G Adventures ✔️ No single supplement ✔️ Free time in itineraries ✔️ Evening Group Meals

Encounters Travel ✔️ Private & Small Group Focus ✔️ 20 Years Experience ✔️ Range of Tours

1. Group Tours for Solo Travellers

Explore is perhaps one of the best singles travel groups. It is also the company I have been a traveling single with the most so the best place to start! Explore has been running since 1981 so they have loads of experience with running tours.

Explore covers over 100 countries and has a maximum group size of 11 and there is no single supplement if you take a shared room. There is an option to have your own room but that does cost extra. They prioritize working with locals and do a great job finding expert guides.

Around 60% of people who go on Explore trips are traveling on their own and they break down solo vacations into age groups on their website which is really helpful.

My second recommendation for solo travel vacations is G Adventures . They have a wide range of small-group trips designed for the solo traveler. There is no single supplement as long as you are willing to share a room with someone of the same sex. G Adventures also offers single rooms at reasonable prices if that is your preference.

The itineraries for G Adventures trips tend to have more free time than some of the other tour companies in this article. This is great if you are someone that likes to have some time to yourself to relax or explore further but want the support and structure of an organised group trip.

One of the most difficult parts of solo travel can be dinner. Eating on your own can feel lonely and isolating. The tour leader organizes group meals most nights, so if you want company you will almost be able to find it.

If you are traveling alone one of the best ways not to feel like it is to join a group doing some challenge – when I summited Kilimanjaro on an organized solo tour. we were a team from almost the word go. More than half of the trip was traveling solo – some were single, some had partners who didn’t want to go, some like me had someone pull out last minute etc.

It didn’t matter who you had arrived with – what mattered was everyone wanted someone to talk to about whether or not to take Diamox, tips on altitude, share lollies, etc etc.

Check G Adventures Tours and Prices

Check Explore Tours and Prices

I have done two travel solo tours with friends – North India and cycling Southern Iceland . Again an activity-based trip can be a great travel for singles option – particularly as you tend to be exhausted every night and eat and sleep.

⇒ Don’t miss my Complete Guides to Singles Holidays over 40s – and Vacations for over 50 singles – these thorough guides have all of the most commonly asked questions about Solo Travel – and everything I have learned.

Want to join me on a small group female trip to Africa? I am heading to Kenya in October on an 8 night safari with Walking Wild Africa and would love you to join me. It’s a unique mix of game drives, walking safari and some chill time. Make sure you tell Kim that you want to go on the tour with The Boutique Adventurer so she gets the right one!

⇒ Still not sure about group travel for singles? Check out this great post on The Benefits of Solo Trave l .

2. Solo Female Travelers Club

Solo Female Travelers Club is a community of more than 90,000, run by the fantastic travel bloggers Meg and Mar. The heart of the community is their Facebook group, which has some great information and is the perfect way to meet other females interested in traveling solo.

Meg and Mar also run female-only small group tours that range from luxury retreats to adventurous expeditions in some awesome locations.

3. Luxury Single Traveller Vacations

One company I have been particularly keen to try but it just hasn’t worked out on timings and destinations is Flash Pack . I love the tone and feel of their website – it is very much about boutique adventures.

They focus on people in their 30s and 40s and seem to have some great travel groups for solo travelers.

Australian based Travelling Divas also promises boutique hotels and customized trips. I have also been very keen to try Cox and Kings solo holidays .

Cox and Kings have a great reputation as a high-end travel specialist so I am highly confident that the thread count on their sheets will be up to my standards based on how fantastic their hotels look.

These trips though will, of course, be at a premium to some of the other options I have mentioned. But their group travel singles options look terrific.

⇒ Looking for some travel inspiration? Check out this post on The Best Adventure and Travel Quotes .

⇒ Spas and skiing are terrific options for solo travelers. Check out my posts on the best Singles Ski Holiday options and on 30 Fabulous Solo Spa Breaks.

4. Solo Travel Companies that are specifically for traveling alone

I would highly recommend that you think beyond the country you live in when it comes to solo travel groups. For example, quite a few travel companies based in Australia now run specific holidays for solo travel groups.

Encounter Travels is all about solo travel but not traveling alone as they say.

They also age match so if you are a 35-year-old solo traveler you won’t be in a group of people in their 70s. They do have quite a few trips to various parts of Australia but also a few trips to other places around the world.

Another solo travel company based in Australia is Twos a Crowd . Some UK based companies that specialize in solo travel groups are:

⇒ www.solosholidays.co.uk

⇒ www.justyou.co.uk

⇒ www.friendshiptravel.co.uk

5. Companies that specialise in Adventure

For a more adventurous bent check out    8th-day adventures . They are a London based club that has lots of sporting events and other fun things that are a mix of social and activity.

They also run some group holidays which could be good for the more adventurous solo traveler eg Everest base camp

An interesting-sounding organization is Archaeo Adventures. This female-focused travel company looks at adventures in countries like Morocco and Jordan in small groups. They are about boutique hotels, working with locals, and off-the-beaten-track experiences.

Female-focused hosted adventure trips are also the focus of Living Big which is US-based. Another company specializing in solo travel groups USA is Overseas Adventure Travel , which offers some fantastic-sounding trips for adventurous solo travelers.

Heading to Australia there are Adventurous Women and Another World Adventures.  Another World Adventures curates adventures from different providers. It is a very comprehensive site with loads of options that sound great.

6. Cruises for Solo Travelers

Even cruise ships have gotten on board with the growth in solo travel. Norwegian Cruise Line is the brand most commonly mentioned for having actually built single cabins and apparently there is a dedicated area for solo travelers.

They have several cruise brands – Norwegian Epic, Breakaway, Getaway, and Escape. But ensure you look closely as these can be more family-focused at certain times of the year – check out my top tip 2 below.

Encounter Travel also has loads of information on solo cruise options. They even have a “cabin mates wanted” section where you can potentially find another same-sex solo traveler with whom you can share a cabin.

7. Charity Based Solo Travel Companies

There are a few organisations that run group tours that have some activity/challenge that supports a charity. These can be a great way to find others to travel with and the shared sense of purpose can surely add to the group bond.

Have a look at Global Adventure Challenges and Charity Challenge.

8. Passion-based Solo Travel Tours

An organized trip around an activity you love that is also about solo travel is a fantastic formula to follow. Even if you don’t really bond with anyone on the trip if you have learned more about Italian cooking or photographing sea life it is a well-spent holiday.

Quite a few organizations I have listed above offer planned trips around passions and hobbies. Here are a few others I’ve found:

Frui has some fantastic looking passion-based trips – from photography (a great one for solo travel) to painting to food in some lovely locations. I did a day class with them once in London in photography and they were great.

The Red Sea in Egypt appears to be a very popular solo travel spot – most likely driven by the amount of activity that can be done in the water. There are also numerous diving and/or underwater photography courses in the area.

Skyros is a very famous spot in Greece for activity/passion-based trips. They used to have a bit of a self-help bent but now they are very focused on passions like painting, singing, yoga, and learning.

They have two locations in Greece and one on the Isle of Wight for taster weekends. According to their site, 70% of their travelers are between 40 and 60, and most travel solo. This is a great option if you’re looking for singles travel groups over 40.

9. Something Different for Single Travel Groups

In August 2017, I spent a month living life Unsettled in Medellin Colombia, and loved it. Unsettled is a fantastic concept. Essentially it aims to give people the experience of living in a city for a month rather than being a tourist.

It does this because it has about 25-30 people sign up, organizes apartments and coworking space and sets up activities that you can participate in as much or as little as you like.

The other people on the trip are your community, the hosts act as your connection to local life and having an apartment and workspace means it feels more like living.

They choose brilliant locations from Buenos Aires to Cape Town to Barcelona . I highly recommend checking them out.

If you decide to live life Unsettled then use the code “FRIENDSOFUNSETTLED”  and tell them that the Boutique Adventurer sent you for a discount of USD$150 .

Solo Travel Tips

1. mix up your plans.

A great way to travel solo is to mix things up. If you were heading to say Australia you could go and stay in a spa for a few days (a great way to meet people), head to say Sydney on your own and stay at a boutique hotel and use Tinder or join a meetup group.

You could then join an organized tour with someone like Explore, travel with them for a while, and then have some time solo again. Committing to a lengthy organized tour can be a bit much – plus it is hard to find one that covers everything that you want.

I find a mix is optimal – if you feel lonely it is only a few days till you have company, if you’re dying to be on your own again it’s only a few days till that happens. And you may very well meet others traveling alone on your organized section who are keen to have further adventures after the tour.

I have many friends I have met when traveling solo who become travel buddies and loads of other friends of mine are the same.

2. Avoid School Holidays

September is a great time to travel solo. Be careful of all organized tours/cruises etc during any school holiday time, particularly over the summer, as you may end up surrounded by families.

However, school has returned in September, and there are often many deals for solo travelers.

3. Fill Up your Kindle

There is nothing like a good book to keep you company when traveling solo! I keep adding to my list – please email me with more suggestions! [email protected] .

I keep them all in my Amazon shop. And I have just launched a range of e-books aimed at solo travelers! I have an ebook on Solo Travel, my trip to Colombia with Unsettled and Everest Base Camp .

Frequently Asked Questions about Solo Travel

Are there travel companies just for single people.

Yes! There are several travel companies just for single people as well as companies like G Adventures that offer trips designed for single travelers.

What is the best holiday destination for singles?

In my opinion, rather than focusing on a particular destination singles should look at holidays with a focus or goal like a cycling trip or a trek. This is most likely to bring together like-minded people and provide a common purpose.

Is solo travel lonely?

It can be. The best way to avoid feeling lonely when traveling solo is to join an organised tour. Or if you are on your own look at staying in high-end hostels for some comfort and the chance to meet others. And a good book can transport you from any difficult situation! And don’t forget to check out things like the safest cities in the US to make sure you can relax during your trip.

How do I meet other female solo travelers?

There are several facebook groups for female solo travelers such as Solo Female Travelers (who also organise group trips for solo female travelers). I have also found that going to a spa/yoga retreat can be a good way to meet other female solo travelers.

Who Paid for What with this Singles Travel Groups Post

I paid for everything associated with this post. This was completely me travelling and not working with any tourism boards or hotels or tour groups. Much of what is in this post is stuff I learned before I started my blog – and probably a lot of what led me to start a travel blog.

However, this singles travel groups post does contain affiliate links. That means that if you click through on them and make a purchase I may well receive a small commission. I just wanted to make sure that you knew.

Related Posts:

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Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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Pratik Sharma

Thursday 6th of August 2020

Amazing article. Thank you for sharing this blog for single travel groups.

Christian Alcantara

Thursday 7th of May 2020

I've never done solo travel before, but if ever that I plan to do so I will definitely get back at this post.

Sarena Wilson

Friday 11th of August 2017

Wow! Incredible beautiful site with great informative content. thanks for sharing this............post........... Everest trekking

Monday 15th of May 2017

Great ideas. I have done a lot of solo tour travel as I like the security of a tour when I am on my own. Some other companies:

Contiki is great for the 18-35s, especially when you haven't travelled much before.

My favourite company is G Adventures, no single supplement, but you can pay for your own room and a huge range of tours world wide. They are Canadian based. All ages, very budget and affordable.

Another one very similar to G Adventures but Australian based is Intrepid tours. World wide, budget, no single supplement but also has own room option if you don't want to share.

I have made life long friends on these tours when I was travelling solo. Now we meet up all over the world and do tours together!

Jocelyn Soltren

Friday 12th of May 2017

Awesome article thank you for sharing.

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Singles Travel Groups Over 40- Unleash Adventure New!

Singles travel groups over 40 offer mature solo travelers unique adventures and social experiences. These groups provide age-appropriate excursions and a chance to meet like-minded individuals.

Traveling alone can be daunting, especially for those over 40 seeking companionship and adventure without the stress of planning. Singles travel groups tailored for this age bracket cater specifically to their interests, offering trips that combine cultural immersion, relaxation, and opportunities for personal growth.

These tours enable mature travelers to explore new destinations with a sense of community and safety that solo travel sometimes lacks. From cruises to treks, these groups arrange all the details, so participants can enjoy the journey with peace of mind. Engaging in activities that resonate with their life stage, solo adventurers over 40 can build meaningful connections and create memorable experiences on their travels.

Table of Contents

The Rise Of Solo Travelers

Travel trends are shifting , and a new wave is taking over: solo travelers over 40 . Gone are the days when traveling alone was the domain of the young backpacker. Today, more mature adventurers are embarking on solo journeys, searching for personal growth, adventure, and meaningful experiences. This movement is not just a footnote in travel logs; it’s a burgeoning chapter as singles travel groups over 40 gain momentum.

Understanding who is leading this solo travel charge is key to appreciating its significance. The graph is trending upwards , particularly for those above the age of 40. But why?

These percentages represent a significant increase in solo travel interest and activity among older demographics over recent years.

The allure of solo travel for those over 40 is not just about ticking boxes on a bucket list. It’s about diverse experiences that resonate deeply with personal aspirations and lifestyles.

• Freedom of choice and flexibility
• Opportunities for self-discovery and independence
• Networking with like-minded individuals
• Serenity and respite from daily routines
• Desire to challenge oneself and learn new skills

Each point presents a compelling argument for the growing population of solo travelers in their 40s and beyond.

Best singles travel groups over 40

Looking to explore the world solo but still want the camaraderie of a group? Here are some top singles travel groups tailored for those over 40:

Solo Travelers International (STI):

1. Specializes in group trips for solo travelers aged 40 and above. 2. Offers diverse destinations and itineraries, catering to various interests from cultural excursions to adventure trips. 3. Provides a comfortable environment for meeting new people and exploring the world without feeling alone.

1 . Dedicated travel company exclusively for solo travelers over 40. 2 . Curates trips designed for singles, ensuring a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. 3. Offers well-planned itineraries and opportunities for meaningful connections with fellow travelers.

G Adventures:

1. Provides small group tours with a mix of ages, including solo travelers over 40. 2 . Focuses on immersive experiences and sustainable travel practices.

Perfect for adventurers looking to explore diverse destinations while making a positive impact. These singles travel groups offer a range of experiences, from cultural enrichment to outdoor adventures, ensuring there’s something for everyone’s interests. Whether you’re seeking to expand your horizons, forge new friendships, or simply enjoy the freedom of solo travel with like-minded individuals, these groups cater to the diverse needs of solo travelers over 40, guaranteeing unforgettable journeys filled with fun and discovery.

Benefits Of Joining Singles Travel Groups

Embarking on an adventure alone can seem daunting, especially over 40. Singles travel groups offer unique perks. They foster a community spirit, ensure safety, and present a chance to forge deep connections. Joining these groups can be the gateway to unforgettable moments and support networks.

Singles Travel Groups Over 40- Shared Experiences And New Friendships

Traveling with like-minded individuals opens the door to special bonds. Shared experiences in travel groups act as an icebreaker. They pave the way for new friendships.

• Cultural explorations lead to group discussions.
• Group activities create fun together.
• Meals together offer a taste of companionship.

These shared moments can lead to long-lasting friendships beyond the trip. People connect, sharing stories and laughter across different backgrounds.

Safety And Support In Numbers

For many, safety is a key concern. Traveling in a group offers a sense of security .

Guides ensure smooth experiences. Group settings deter potential threats. Assistance is always nearby if needed. Here’s a breakdown:

Solo travelers often worry about these issues. In a group, these worries lessen. You can enjoy the journey with peace of mind.

Group traveler’s needs and expectations

Safety and Security: Group travelers prioritize safety and security during their journeys. They expect travel organizers to provide reliable accommodations, transportation, and experienced guides to navigate unfamiliar destinations safely.

Inclusive Itineraries: Group travelers seek inclusive itineraries that cater to a variety of interests and preferences. They appreciate diverse activities and sightseeing opportunities that appeal to all members of the group.

Clear Communication: Effective communication is crucial for group travelers. They expect clear instructions, updates, and information regarding schedules, activities, and any changes to the itinerary.

Social Interaction: Group travelers value social interaction and opportunities to connect with fellow participants. They appreciate organized group activities, communal meals, and networking opportunities facilitated by the travel organizer.

Professional Guidance: Group travelers rely on professional guidance and expertise from tour leaders or guides. They expect knowledgeable staff who can provide insights into local culture, history, and attractions, enhancing their overall travel experience.

Flexibility and Adaptability: While group travelers appreciate organized itineraries, they also value flexibility and adaptability. They understand that unexpected circumstances may arise, and they expect travel organizers to handle changes smoothly and efficiently.

Value for Money: Group travelers seek value for their money, expecting a balance between cost and quality. They appreciate transparent pricing, inclusive amenities, and experiences that exceed their expectations.

By understanding and catering to these needs and expectations, travel organizers can create memorable and enjoyable experiences for group travelers, fostering positive reviews, repeat business, and referrals.

How To Choose The Right Singles Travel Group

Embarking on solo travel opens up a world of adventure. Choosing the right singles travel group is crucial for those over 40 wanting a mix of company and independence. This guide will help ensure you find a group that fits like a glove.

Evaluating Group Demographics

Your travel experience largely depends on who you travel with . A well-matched group amplifies the fun. Focus on groups that attract travelers in your age bracket . Check past trip photos or online communities to gauge the group’s vibe. Look for diversity in interests that align with yours.

Researching The Travel Company’s Reputation

The company behind the trips is as important as the destinations themselves. Perform a background check on the travel firm. Read reviews and look for consistent positive feedback . Trustworthy companies have a history of successful trips and glowing testimonials.

• Check for positive online reviews.
• Read testimonials on the company website.
• Look for industry awards or recognitions.
• Confirm they have a responsive customer support team.

Popular Destinations For Singles Over 40

Exploring the world solo doesn’t mean you have to do it alone. Singles travel groups offer the perfect opportunity to meet like-minded explorers. For those over 40, the experience is ripe with possibility. Destinations span the globe, offering everything from cultural treasures to adrenaline-pumping activities. Embark on a journey that suits your preferences and pace. Delight in the camaraderie of fellow travelers as you discover new places together.

Cultural Hotspots

Delve into rich histories and vibrant traditions in the world’s cultural hotspots. Feed your curiosity and your soul. A table outlining top cultural destinations is below:

Walk cobbled streets. Learn from local artisans. Savor global cuisines. These experiences create bonds that last a lifetime.

Adventure-filled Getaways

Thrill-seekers and nature lovers find solace in breathtaking landscapes. Adventure-filled destinations offer an array of activities.

• Zip-lining through Costa Rican rainforests
• Diving with Sharks in South Africa
• Hiking Peru’s Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Embark on a journey that gets your heart racing. Connect with fellow adventurers who share your passion for excitement.

Singles Travel Groups Over 40- Making The Most Of Your Solo Adventure

Embarking on a solo journey can be a thrilling experience, especially for those over 40. With no ties holding you back, the freedom to explore and immerse yourself in new cultures is unparalleled. Singles travel groups over 40 cater to solo wanderers looking to make the most of their adventures with like-minded individuals. Let’s delve into how to truly embrace and enjoy this solo travel experience.

Embracing Independence

Traveling alone can be a liberating and empowering experience. It’s a chance to rediscover oneself and enjoy the spontaneity of solo exploration. As part of singles travel groups over 40, you gain the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone while still having the security of a group setting . Whether it’s dining alone in a Parisian café or hiking through the Andes, the moments of independence on your travels will bring a deep sense of achievement and joy.

Participating In Group Activities

While the idea of solo travel is to enjoy independence, joining group activities can enhance your travel experience . Singles travel groups often offer a diverse range of activities designed to suit everyone’s preferences. Here’s what you can expect:

• Cultural tours: Dive deep into the history and culture of your destination with guided tours.
• Adventure sports: Get your adrenaline pumping with group-oriented adventure activities.
• Cooking classes: Share a meal and laughter while learning to cook regional dishes.
• Relaxation retreats: Unwind with yoga, meditation, or spa sessions within the group.

Group activities offer the perfect blend of community and individual exploration. By participating, you’ll forge new friendships with fellow travelers who share your zest for life and exploration. Ready to make your solo adventure truly unforgettable?

Singles Travel Groups Over 40- Budgeting For Solo Travel

Budgeting for Solo Travel can seem daunting, but it’s your passport to unforgettable experiences.

Traveling alone doesn’t mean breaking the bank.

Mindful budgeting ensures your trip is both exhilarating and affordable.

Smart strategies save money and amplify adventure for singles over 40 looking to explore the world.

Cost-saving Tips

Eager to stretch your travel dollars? Consider these savvy tips:

• Early Bird Gets the Deals: Book in advance for lower prices.
• Eat Like a Local: Street food and local diners are budget-friendly.
• Pack Smart: Avoid extra baggage fees.
• Free Attractions: Many cities offer no-cost museums and tours.
• Travel Off-peak: Cheaper rates during non-holiday periods.

Understanding The Value Of Group Rates

Traveling solo doesn’t mean you always have to pay a ‘single supplement’.

Singles travel groups over 40 often snag outstanding group discounts.

Group rates often include perks perfect for pocket-friendly travel.

Solo Travel Safety

Hitting the road alone can be an exhilarating experience, especially for those over 40 seeking adventure with like-minded travelers. Safety takes priority while exploring new destinations solo. Simple steps can ensure a secure and enjoyable trip.

Singles Travel Groups Over 40- Stay Smart Overseas

Research is key before boarding your flight. Know the local laws and customs of your destination. Stay at reputable accommodations with positive reviews. Always keep emergency contacts on hand.

• Keep copies of important documents.
• Use safe transportation options .
• Avoid flashing valuables to prevent theft.

Navigating Health Concerns

Health should never be on the back burner. Secure travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pack a basic first aid kit with essentials. Stay hydrated and be mindful of dietary changes.

Success Stories- Single Travelers Over 40

Discover how solo travel after 40 is not just a trip, but a journey of self-discovery and new bonds. Read real-life tales of those who leaped into the world of solo travel. Their experiences reveal transformation on every level.

Inspiring Personal Journeys

John’s Leap of Faith led him to the cliffs of Ireland. At 42, he found new friends while hiking. John says, “The experience gave me a brave heart.”

Emily’s Italian Adventure at 45 changed her life. Pasta making in Tuscany taught her joy in simple things. Her words, “I rediscovered my passion for life.”

• Mary’s Story began in Bali. At 48, she embraced yoga and the island’s tranquility. She found inner peace and a community.
• David’s Seaside Escape in Greece marked his 50th birthday. Sunsets and sailing brought him a new zest for life.

Life-changing Experiences

Meet Linda , whose trek through the Andes at 47 was a life-changer. “Summiting Machu Picchu, I conquered my fears,” she recalls.

Mark’s Voyage across the Trans-Siberian Railway sparked a love for photography. His snapshots capture stories of connection.

Rachel’s Journey to self-love unfolded in Paris. Freshly turned 40, she fell for the city, and in turn, herself. Her story, “Paris taught me elegance in solitude.”

Planning Your Itinerary

Crafting the perfect travel plan can be the highlight of any adventure. For singles over 40 , it’s an exciting chance to blend personal passions with new friendships. Thoughtful itinerary planning turns a simple trip into an unforgettable journey.

Curating Personal Interests

Your itinerary should mirror your interests. Start by listing what you love . Whether it’s history, food, hiking, or art, make sure to include activities that make you smile. A balanced schedule offers both shared experiences and solo pursuits.

• Historical tours
• Culinary classes
• Scenic hikes
• Museum visits

Coordinating With The Group

Group dynamics matter. Finding a consensus ensures that everyone has a great time. Schedule group discussions or polls to decide on activities. Flexibility is key, allowing room for individual preferences.

Remember, planning with others can enhance the trip. Shared memories often become the most cherished ones. Get ready for a journey that combines fun, adventure, and companionship.

Packing Essentials For The Mature Solo Traveler

Traveling solo over 40 brings a wave of excitement and adventure. Yet, smart packing is crucial. It ensures comfort and convenience. Mature travelers often know themselves well. They know what they need for a joyful journey. Let’s look at packing essentials tailored for mature solo travelers.

Practical Gadgets And Gear

Travel smart with gadgets and gear suited for solo adventures. Items that enhance experience and safety are key.

• Portable chargers – Keep devices powered on the go.
• Travel apps – Download maps, translation tools, and travel guides.
• RFID wallets – Protect personal information from theft.
• Water purification – Stay hydrated safely anywhere.

Remember, lightweight and multi-use items save space. Pack a lightweight rain jacket that doubles as a windbreaker. A microfiber towel can serve multiple purposes too.

Dressing For The Destination

Clothing choices should match the destination’s climate and culture. Ensure comfort and respect for local customs.

Choose comfortable footwear for walking. A good pair of shoes can make or break a trip. Pack accessories like a wide-brim hat or sunglasses for sun protection. For colder destinations, don’t forget gloves and a warm hat. Choose colors that are neutral and pieces that can be worn in different ways.

Staying Connected While Traveling

Traveling solo doesn’t mean being out of touch. In the age of technology, staying connected is simpler than ever. Whether exploring ancient ruins or soaking up the sun on distant shores, you can keep in contact with those that matter. Let’s explore the ways to stay connected.

Keeping In Touch With Loved Ones

No need to miss family and friends while on the move . Options abound to stay in the loop. Consider these easy methods:

• Messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram provide quick text and voice communication.
• Video calls through Skype or Zoom feel like you’re right there with loved ones.
• Regular emails share your adventures and check in on folks back home.

Making The Most Of Social Media

Travel memories and new friendships bloom online. Use these tips to enhance your social presence:

• Update your status on platforms like Facebook to spark conversations.
• Share stunning photos or stories through Instagram and TikTok .
• Join travel groups to connect with fellow travelers over 40.

Remember, frequent posts with hashtags like #SoloTravel and #AdventureOver40 increase visibility and engagement.

The Future Of Singles Travel Groups Over 40

Exploring The Future of Singles Travel Groups Over 40 , we uncover a world ripe with opportunity. These groups are not just about sightseeing. They’re about connections, experiences, and growth. It’s an exciting time for those looking to venture solo, with an industry ever-adapting to their needs.

Trends And Predictions

Singles travel groups over 40 are in the spotlight with emerging trends:

• Customized Experiences: Tailored itineraries match unique interests.
• Learning Journeys: Travel intersects with education and skill development.
• Wellness Retreats: Focus shifts to mental and physical health.

These trends suggest a future where singles over 40 choose trips that shape them personally and professionally.

The Evolving Landscape Of Solo Travel

In the evolving travel sphere, we see significant shifts:

Digital advancements and global communities offer solo travelers over 40 effortless planning and enriched experiences.

Pros and cons of group travel

Pros: –

Safety and Security: Traveling in a group provides safety in numbers, reducing the risk of getting lost or encountering trouble. Group members can watch out for each other, enhancing overall security.

Social Interaction: Group travel offers the opportunity to meet new people and make friends. Sharing experiences with others can enrich the journey and create lasting bonds.

Convenience: Group tours come with pre-planned itineraries, accommodations, and transportation. This saves time and effort in organizing logistics individually.

Access to Expertise: Group tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into local culture and history. Travelers benefit from learning more about the destinations they visit.

Cost Savings: Group discounts on accommodations, transportation, and activities make travel more economical. Sharing expenses with fellow travelers reduces individual costs.

Cons: –

Lack of Flexibility: Group travel follows a fixed itinerary, limiting opportunities for spontaneous exploration. Travelers may feel constrained by the group’s schedule.

Potential for Conflict: Varying preferences among group members may lead to disagreements.

Group travel offers safety, socialization, and convenience, but it may also limit flexibility and personalization. Travelers should consider these factors when deciding whether to opt for group or independent travel.

Frequently Asked Questions For Singles Travel Groups Over 40

What are singles travel groups over 40.

Singles Travel Groups Over 40 are designed for solo travelers in their 40s and beyond. They provide group trips, allowing individuals to meet others with similar interests, often with itineraries tailored to their age group.

Benefits Of Joining Over 40 Travel Groups?

Joining Over 40 Travel Groups can enhance your travel experience. You’ll meet like-minded individuals, enjoy safety in numbers, and have unique travel opportunities catered to your age group’s preferences and pace.

How To Choose The Right Singles Travel Group?

When choosing a single travel group, consider the group’s size, destinations offered, trip duration, and included activities. Look for reviews and ensure that the company has a history of successful tours for your demographic.

Are There Adventure Trips For Singles Over 40?

Yes, many travel groups offer adventure trips tailored for singles over 40, with activities like hiking, cycling, and sailing, ensuring an exciting and age-appropriate adventure experience.

Discovering the world with peers who share similar life experiences can be incredibly rewarding. Singles travel groups over 40 offer the perfect blend of companionship and adventure for those ready to explore. Embrace the opportunity for new friendships and unforgettable memories.

Your next journey awaits—seize it with gusto!

I’m a travel enthusiast and blogger with four years of experience, residing in both the USA and the UK. My expertise lies in addressing common travel challenges and offering practical tips to enhance your travel experiences. Come along with me as I uncover solutions and provide helpful tips to make your travels smoother and more enjoyable.

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Solo Girl’s Guide to Over 40 Solo Female Travel

Posted on Last updated: April 1, 2024

Are you a mature woman thinking about trying over 40 solo female travel? In this special Solo Girl’s Guide to Travel for Singles Over 40, I asked my friend Ali from Blinked Travel for her trip-planning tips as an older woman traveling alone.

Did You Get Travel Insurance Yet? The Insurance companies I recommend are  Hey Mondo and Safety Wing Hey Mondo  is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing  is great value, with monthly coverage starting at $45.08. It’s super easy to use, and it just renews each month. I currently use them as they offer me free cover for my son as part of my policy. Read my full  travel insurance post  here, where I go into detail about all companies. 

Over 40 Solo Female Travel

There are plenty of guides for solo female travelers, but most are aimed at 20-30 year olds. What about those like me who want to learn more about travel for singles over 40? Us soloists who wish to do more than snap Instagram pictures in our bikinis?

Whether you’re a senior woman traveling alone or someone curious about travel groups for adults over 40, this guide has everything to know about planning your first solo trip.

Maybe you want to travel and gain new skills. Throughout my travels, I’ve learned to teach English, plus I became a yoga teacher . Along the way, I made some wonderful friends from all over the globe, like Kathryn and Chiara from Samui TEFL in Thailand.

transformed me physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

If singles vacations over 40 are something you want to learn more about, keep reading this guide to travel for singles over 40.

What to Tell Your Family as an Older Woman Traveling Alone

When you start taking single trips over 40, many people in your life might struggle to understand. Whether they think it’s a mid-life crisis or a neverending vacation, it’s hard for some to wrap their mind around a senior woman traveling alone.

Ask yourself why you want to pursue over 40 solo female travel . Then, write your reasons down to explain your motivation to the overly curious people in your life.

Many women travel for the freedom to see the world and experience natural wonders that may not exist in the future. Regardless of your reason for embarking on singles vacations over 40, your loved ones must accept and support your decision. Help them understand, but don’t let them change your mind if it’s something you’ve thoroughly thought about and planned!

One of the best ways to reassure people about over 40 solo female travel is to assure them you’ll stay in contact. My Mum checks Facebook Messenger in the morning to check my last online status—it might sound weird to some, but it puts her mind at ease to know I’m okay.

Always tell someone your exact travel plans so they have an idea of where you are and what you’re doing. This will be helpful in the unlikely event of an emergency.

Researching Travel for Singles Over 40

As you’re planning single trips over 40 and searching for the best travel groups for adults over 40, it’s essential to keep several things in mind.

• Start by researching the safest locations for solo female travelers —this changes frequently, so ensure you’re checking updated information.
• Check crime rates in your location(s) of choice. Southeast Asia, for instance, feels more welcoming and safe than my hometown of Melbourne , Australia.
• Ensure the weather patterns align with your travel preferences. Hate cold temperatures and snow? You may want to avoid destinations prone to severe winter weather.
• Research the currency conversion to pick a destination that fits your budget .
• Find the best and safest modes of transportation.

• Familiarize yourself with local customs to respect the traditional culture and avoid sticking out like a sore thumb.
• Verify the country’s travel guidelines and requirements for identification and documents.
• If you’re traveling indefinitely, consider a 12-month insurance pack—there are plenty of inexpensive options for long-term travelers.
• Locate your country’s embassy at the end destination for assistance in case of emergency.
• Consider participating in some education to start your journey, like teaching English , learning yoga , or practicing Tai Chi.
• Learn a new language before you go!

What to Pack for Single Trips Over 40

I recommend packing as light as possible—I made the mistake of over-packing camera equipment and suffered the consequences of a heavy, bulky backpack!

Pack clothing items you can mix and match—a few bottoms and tops are all you need for a seemingly endless wardrobe. It’s typically better to purchase clothes in your home country, as sizing standards tend to vary significantly worldwide. Stick with practical, versatile shoes, and pack three pairs maximum.

I sport a hair bun 99% of the time, so I’ve successfully avoided packing hair tools. If you can work with your natural hair and no-heat styling methods, you’ll save a lot of space.

Minimal makeup is key to packing light—stick with essentials like SPF , waterproof mascara , and tinted lip balm . I also suggest filling up the medications you take before leaving the country. Also, keep a notebook or written log of any prescriptions you’re on. Scarves are a handy accessory for covering your hair in modest countries, and they’re incredibly versatile.

Don’t Over-Prepare

By all means, research travel groups for singles over 40 to your heart’s content, but leave some free time in your itinerary for spontaneity or relaxation. You never know when you might be invited into a local’s home to share a meal or find the location of your dreams and want to stay a while. Over 40 solo female travel teaches you a lot about flexibility. Some of my best and most memorable experiences on singles vacations over 40 have been unplanned and spur of the moment.

Once you’ve booked that ticket (whether it’s one-way or roundtrip), make sure to reserve your first night’s accommodations at a minimum. You don’t want to arrive at your destination and struggle to find a bed to rest and recover from your jetlag. On the other hand, don’t book too many nights at once in case your plans change or you want to explore a new area.

Upon landing in your destination country, lay flat on a bed and elevate your feet above your head with pillows for at least an hour to promote blood flow and reduce swelling.

Looking for more recommendations on how to plan single trips over 40? Check out this step-by-step guide to planning the perfect trip.

Finding the Best Flight Deals

With so many airline choices, how does one choose the right flight? My strategy is to use a generic flight booking site like or Google Flights to estimate the rough price of my trip and decide whether or not I want a stopover.

Once you’ve found an option you like, go to that airline’s website and check what price they’re offering the itinerary for. Many times, booking directly with the airline is cheaper, and you can usually sign up for free rewards programs that let you accrue points, which you can redeem for travel rewards.

Before booking your trip, check reviews for the airline you plan to use. You don’t want to get stuck on an uncomfortable flight for hours!

When selecting your seat, I recommend options towards the back of the plane. Airlines usually fill from the front rows first, so the chances of having a spare seat beside you increase the further back you go. If you don’t require a window, opt for a window seat—there’s a good chance you’ll end up with a row to yourself.

Choosing the Right Hotel

I’ve often been called the “ accommodation queen ” thanks to my skill in finding affordable gems in excellent locations. My secret is Booking.com, though I also check Airbnb. The best advice I can give you is to read the reviews, good and bad.

Know What You’re Looking for as an Older Woman Traveling Alone

Identify what amenities and accommodations best fit your travel needs and preferences. Most hotel websites offer search filters to narrow down the list of results. Consider factors like:

• Balcony with a view
• Private bathroom

Remember that you probably won’t spend much time at your hotel or Airbnb, as you’ll be busy exploring and adventuring. As long as accommodations are clean, safe, and comfortable, I’m a happy camper.

Find out how to find the best deals on accommodations .

Safety Tips for Over 40 Solo Female Travel

Common sense is priceless, ladies. Always inform someone of where you’ll be staying and how they can contact you in case of emergencies. Carry a crossbody purse and only use it for basics and minimal currency. You don’t want to lose your passport, ID cards, and cash all in one go.

Don’t get too drunk—if you’re planning a big night out on the town, arrange a trusted driver to get you home safely. Keep an eye on your drinks if you go to bars or clubs. Unfortunately, it’s pretty common for people to slip drugs and unknown substances into alcoholic drinks to put others in a vulnerable position.

If you’re finding travel over 40 lonely, participate in a group class to learn a new skill and meet people. I enjoy taking art classes and have made some great friends all over the world by chatting during class and going out for food or drinks afterward.

Helpful Advice for Planning Singles Vacations Over 40

A Smile Goes a Long Way

Locals are more likely to approach you as a friend if you offer them a genuine smile. Don’t be a rude, pretentious foreigner—a simple smile goes a long way and transcends language or communication barriers.

Email Copies of Important Documents to Someone Trusted

Before embarking on your solo trip as a woman over 40, I suggest emailing copies of your passport and ID to a trusted family member or friend.

Be Adventurous (But Do it Safely)

Give yourself the freedom for unexpected adventures, but never put yourself in a dangerous situation. Trust your gut instincts and stay wary of strangers.

Prepare for Anything

No matter how well you prepare before your trip, there’s always the possibility something will go wrong, or your plans will change unexpectedly. Stay flexible and prepared for anything to happen, good or bad. That’s life, after all!

Document Your Adventures

Whether you enjoy photography or writing, I highly recommend documenting your over 40 solo female travel adventures. Even if you keep these memories private, it will be nice to look back on them years down the road.

Talk to the Locals

Locals give the best advice on food, nightlife, and hidden gems. Living like the locals do as you travel internationally will help you keep an open mind and welcome new and unique experiences.

Hire a Car or Scooter and Explore

Assuming you know how to operate a car or scooter safely, I recommend hitting the backroads and diving into local life. Stop at small shops and talk to as many people as you can—I find the further away from large cities, the friendlier people tend to be.

Dress Per the Local Culture

Be aware of the local customs wherever you travel so that you don’t unintentionally offend the locals. In some countries, for instance, tattoos are frowned upon, and women must cover their hair.

Make Sure Your Phone and Credit Cards Will Work Overseas

Verify your cell phone provider’s regulations about international travel, and notify credit card companies of your upcoming trips, if applicable.

Join Facebook Groups

There are many Facebook travel groups for singles over 40 where you can meet like-minded people worldwide and seek advice from experienced travelers.

Travel Guide Planning

🚗 Where can I book bus or private transportation while I’m traveling?

I strongly recommend using  Bookaway . You can book almost all transport in the major tourist destinations through them online. They don’t just cover buses they also cover shuttles, ferries, and private drivers.

🎫  Where can I buy tickets for museums, attractions, and tours?

I recommend either  Viator  or  GetYour Guide . They have a lot of options!

👩‍⚕️ What is the best insurance to have while traveling?

I recommend using  Heymondo  for a great value policy. The app also offers you 24/7 Dr Chat. For Digital Nomads check out  SafetyWing  digital nomad insurance.

I have also written a blog post covering all my recommended travel insurance  here

✈️ Any flight recommendations?

WayAWay  offers you cheap flights with cashback. You can use this code CLAIRE22 to get 10% off. Otherwise  Skyscanner  or  Expedia  are my go-to flight searching platforms.

📱What do you use for internet connection while traveling?

I’m a big fan of personal WiFi devices and they have saved my ass so many times when traveling. I wrote a full review of the top travel WiFi devices you can read  here . I personally use  GlocalMe  as I can either pop in a physical sim card or use their local carrier.

With regards to my phone connection, I use e-sims while traveling, so rather than having to swap out my regular sim card I can download the app and buy a virtual sim card. I recommend using either Airhub  or  Alosim . Both have great coverage of multiple countries and are very easy to use.

🛏️ What is the best platform to use for booking accommodation?

The 3 best platforms that I normally use are  Booking.com ,  Hotels.com , and  Expedia  They offer great deals and multiple options. I always check all three to be sure of the best deals.

🛅  Do you have any luggage recommendations for traveling?

I do have a complete list of the best packing and luggage products that I recommend, you can check the list  here . I’m currently traveling with  this suitcase  and  this backpack. 

Check out my other solo travel posts here: Best Places to Visit in Gold Coast, Australia: Solo Gold Coast Guide Solo Girl’s Guide to RVing: Solo RVing As a Woman Is Sofia Bulgaria Safe? Solo Girl’s Guide to Things to Do in Sofia The Solo Girl’s Guide to Things to Do in Uzbekistan The Solo Girl’s Guide to Kuala Lumpur Solo Travel to Copenhagen: Solo Girl’s Guide to Things to Do in Copenhagen Denmark Solo Girl’s Guide to Over 40 Solo Female Travel Is Nepal Safe to Travel to Alone? Solo Guide To Nepal Is Prague Safe for Solo Female Travelers? Solo Guide to Prague Top Tips for Taking a Solo Trip to Vegas Things to Do in Stockholm, Sweden: Solo Girl’s Guide to Stockholm Is it Safe to Travel in Israel? Israel Things to Do Solo The Solo Girl’s Guide to Barcelona

Travel for Singles Over 40: Final Thoughts

If you take one thing from this Solo Girl’s Guide to Over 40 Female Travel, I hope it’s a sense of confidence and eagerness to explore! There are so many beautiful destinations in the world that you shouldn’t let your age dictate where or how you travel.

Read about my travels here .

Ali is a professional photographer who uses her iPhone too much and likes to visit people and places off the beaten path.

Ali is in her mid-forties but has the mental age of a 20-year-old who wants to absorb all the positives that come with over 40 solo female travel .

Follow Ali’s adventures on Social Media: Facebook  | Twitter

GSE Solutions

Monday 12th of November 2018

Inspiring post! I liked your tip on what to pack, only the essentials. Thank you for sharing your adventures with us.

Friday 9th of November 2018

Thank you so much for writing this blog! Wonderful article, thanks for putting it together! This is obviously one great post.

Tuesday 6th of November 2018

It looks like you guys had a lot of fun.

Claire Summers

Hi I’m Claire!

At 34 I sold all my worldly possessions that wouldn’t fit into 3 boxes or my backpack and hit the road.

I started Claire’s Itchy Feet to inspire women to pack their bags and travel more. With no plans to stop anytime soon I’m always looking for my next adventure be it attempting to surf or climbing a volcano I’ll try (almost) anything once!

© 2023 Claire’s Itchy Feet  

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Unleashing the Best All-Inclusive Resorts for Singles Over 40

‍ Embarking on a solo journey can be a transformative experience. Especially for those over 40, it’s an opportunity to unwind, meet new people, and indulge in activities tailored to your interests. It’s all about your comfort, relaxation, and fun – exactly what all-inclusive resorts offer. Whether you’re searching for a wild adventure, a serene retreat, or a blend of both, there are resorts out there that cater to your desires.

The Allure of Singles Resorts

All-inclusive singles resorts over 40 offer a unique blend of relaxation and social interaction. Unlike generic vacation spots, these resorts are designed with solo travelers in mind. Some offer party atmospheres with endless entertainment options, while others provide a peaceful environment for mingling with like-minded individuals.

These resorts provide the perfect backdrop for singles to connect, engage in shared activities, or simply enjoy some alone time. The best part? Everything is included – from meals and drinks to activities and entertainment.

Caribbean Gateway: Singles All-Inclusive Resorts

The Caribbean is a paradise for singles . Resorts in this region cater to various preferences, ensuring every solo traveler finds their perfect match.

SuperClubs Breezes Resort & Spa

Located in Jamaica, SuperClubs Breezes Resort & Spa is an all-inclusive haven for singles. Known for its lively atmosphere, the resort sits on a white sand beach and offers various recreational activities and entertainment options, making it perfect for social butterflies.

Club Med Turkoise

Club Med Turkoise , based in the Turks & Caicos Islands, attracts active solo travelers. Offering a range of water sports, outdoor activities, and stunning natural surroundings, it’s an adventure lover’s dream destination.

Hedonism II

For those seeking a wilder experience, Hedonism II in Jamaica is a perfect choice. This adult-only, all-inclusive resort emphasizes clothing-optional activities, offering an adventurous and liberating vacation experience.

The Dominican Retreat: Punta Cana All-Inclusive Singles Resorts

Punta Cana, nestled on the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic, is a sanctuary for singles. Its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and abundant sunshine make it a perfect spot for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana

One of Punta Cana’s standout resorts is the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino . Known for its vibrant atmosphere, endless entertainment options, and world-class dining, it’s ideal for single travelers seeking a fun-filled vacation.

Ocean Blue & Sand Resort

The Ocean Blue & Sand Resort offers an idyllic beachfront location and a wide range of activities. With its well-appointed rooms, numerous dining options, and friendly staff, it’s a great place to make new friends and create lasting memories.

RIU Palace Punta Cana

At RIU Palace Punta Cana , singles can enjoy a free breakfast buffet, 18 holes of golf, and free water park access. With its stunning white sand beach and on-site Renova Spa, this resort is a perfect place to relax and unwind.

The Wellness Retreat: The Body Holiday, St Lucia

The Body Holiday in St Lucia is a luxury resort that takes singles travel seriously. It’s more focused on wellness than hedonism, pampering the body, mind, and soul with one of the top spas in the Caribbean. Their Solo September promotions make it an ideal time for singles to visit.

Beyond the Shores: Best Singles All-Inclusive Resorts Over 40

The world is full of fantastic all-inclusive resorts for singles over 40. Here are some noteworthy ones:

Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa

Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa , located on the pristine beaches of Antigua, offers a romantic and sophisticated atmosphere, making it perfect for singles over 40.

Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun

This adult-only resort in Mexico is known for its sophisticated atmosphere, elegant dining, and unlimited premium drinks.

Excellence Playa Mujeres

Based in Cancun, Excellence Playa Mujeres offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect resort for singles over 40.

Azul Beach Resort Negril

This Jamaican resort is ideal for those looking for a laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings.

Iberostar Grand Hotel Paraiso

Located in the heart of Mexico’s Riviera Maya, this all-inclusive resort is known for its spacious suites, stunning pools, and world-class dining.

The Mexican Adventure: Best Resorts for Singles

Mexico, with its vibrant culture and beautiful landscapes, has a plethora of resorts that cater to singles.

Temptations Resort

Temptations Resort in Cancun is a popular choice among singles. Despite attracting a mix of couples and younger visitors, the resort is renowned for its ease of social interaction, making it easy for guests to meet new people.

Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun offers a sophisticated atmosphere with elegant dining and unlimited premium drinks. It’s a serene and upscale experience for singles.

Excellence Playa Mujeres is ideal for singles seeking tranquility. Offering spacious rooms and suites with stunning views, it’s a great place to relax and unwind.

The Royal Sands Resort & Spa

This chic and modern resort is ideal for singles who want to be close to the action, with its prime location in the heart of Cancun’s hotel zone.

Hyatt Zilara Cancun

Hyatt Zilara Cancun offers a serene location on a white sand beach and stunning ocean views. With a variety of dining options and recreational activities, it’s a great choice for solo travelers.

The Caribbean Charm: Best Resorts for Singles

The Caribbean is famous for its singles resorts. It’s a hub for solo travelers from around the world, offering an exciting mix of activities and relaxation.

Varadero in Cuba is renowned for its singles resorts. At certain times of the year, some resorts waive the single supplement, making it an affordable option for solo travelers.

Hedonism II in Jamaica is a world-renowned, all-inclusive, adult-only resort. Known for its emphasis on clothing-optional activities, it’s a great choice for those who want to let loose and enjoy a carefree and laid-back atmosphere.

The Asian Attraction: Singles Resorts

Asia is a diverse and exciting destination for solo travelers, offering a range of all-inclusive resorts designed specifically for singles.

Club Med Bali

Club Med Bali , Indonesia, offers a luxurious resort located on the stunning beach of Nusa Dua. It’s perfect for singles seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating escape.

Chatrium Residence Sathon Bangkok

This modern and stylish resort is located in the heart of Bangkok and offers a range of activities and entertainment options for solo travelers.

The Pavilions Bali

The Pavilions Bali is set in a lush tropical garden and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery. It’s ideal for a rejuvenating and healthy vacation.

Angsana Lang Co Resort & Spa

This breathtaking resort is located on the stunning beach of Lang Co and offers a range of activities and entertainment options for solo travelers.

The Surin Phuket

The Surin Phuket is located on the beautiful beach of Surin and offers a range of activities and entertainment options for solo travelers.

European Elegance: Singles All-Inclusive Resorts

Europe is a treasure trove of all-inclusive resorts for singles. These resorts offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation.

Club Med Les Arcs Panorama

Located in the French Alps, Club Med Les Arcs Panorama offers ski-in/ski-out access, an indoor pool, and a spa. It’s a great option for singles looking for a winter sports getaway.

Sensimar Royal Blue Resort & Spa

Located in Crete, Greece, this adults-only resort features a private beach, a spa, and a range of dining options.

Magic Life Bodrum Imperial

This Turkish resort is set on a private beach and offers a variety of activities, including water sports, fitness classes, and dance lessons.

Olympos Lodge

This Greek resort is set in a peaceful, serene location and offers yoga classes, hikes, and beach excursions for singles looking for adventure.

Iberostar Selection Anthelia

Located in Tenerife, Spain, Iberostar Selection Anthelia offers a spa, several pools, and a variety of dining options. It’s a great choice for singles looking for a relaxing beach vacation.

The Solo Adventures

Beyond the resorts, some destinations are particularly friendly towards singles. Almost any destination that makes for a great vacation can make for a great singles vacation. However, a few places consistently stand out for solo travelers.

The Singles Cruise

A singles cruise is a great option for solo travelers looking for a fun, hassle-free vacation. These cruises offer a chance to meet new people, experience new destinations, and enjoy a set itinerary with meals, entertainment, and activities included in the price. However, it’s always best to do your research and choose a cruise that suits your interests and budget.

The Authentic Expert Reviews

Our travel recommendations are carefully researched, bias-free, and powered by human expertise. We ensure that our reviews, ratings, and research provide an authentic and reliable experience. Our independence is our strength. Join us on our unbiased journey!

Remember, always do your own research and make sure to choose the resort that best suits your needs and preferences. Happy travels.

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Single Travel Groups Over 40

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Honeymoon Packages, Group Vacation, Adventure Vacation – Have you always thought that all these vacation packages are for people going on vacation with their friends or families? Are you single, over 40 years old, and you cannot choose one of them? Tours of single travel groups over 40 are the ones for you.

Singularity is not considered a strange anomaly in the standard system for couples and families anymore. Single travel has become one of the fastest-growing areas, and many tour operators have incorporated various packages for single travelers like the single travel groups over 40. Tour operators are aware of the market’s current state and are beginning to recognize singles as their main business source. Also, a person may go on such tours to get out of the daily boring routine of continuous work.

Single Travel Groups Over 40 holidays are like traveling with family. You are surrounded by like-minded people all the time, making travel more enjoyable and exciting. Singles over 40 years can be rewarding because they can make lifelong friends, build their network, and cater to different personalities and cultures simultaneously.

Single travel groups over 40 packages are also much more fun than traveling alone. For women over 40 traveling solo, who want to avoid personal holidays for security reasons, group travel like the single travel groups over 40 is an excellent option. For these personal trips, the tour group meticulously provides all travel arrangements to the desired destination. Ticket reservations ensure for individual travelers that hotel reservations and holidays are memorable. Single travel groups over 40 can also travel to exotic or dark places without worrying about cost or safety.

People opting for single travel groups over 40 have the opportunity to travel alone. If you are looking for single travel groups over 40, you will be happy to know some great options. If you have never been on a cruise before, you will be very satisfied with the experience. Cruises are amazing floating hotels. You can travel to many countries without packing and unpacking. The cruises host various events, such as a theme party, a one-minute get-way, and cocktails, where everyone can mingle and interact with each other. Cruises have become all the rage for solo travelers, so tour operators and websites are making special arrangements for solo travelers opting for single travel groups over 40 to enjoy the experience of sailing with other singles on board.

Single travel groups over 40 holiday packages can be surprisingly good for some lucky singletons. A normal holiday turns out to be a blessing for those singles, as they can also find their soulmate on such holidays. You can also practice individual adventure sports such as skiing, mountaineering, diving, and paragliding. There are many single travel groups over 40 holiday tours out there in the market today. Choose from the options according to your travel destination, wherever you want and wherever you want. The fun and excitement of a personal holiday await you.

Travel Tours For Singles Over 40

Some older people like to travel alone, especially those who have a habit of traveling. Most older travelers are unaware of new holiday or tour packages like travel tours for singles over 40. If you travel alone, then you have to pay for everything during the whole trip. You can share your expenses with a friend by choosing holidays like travel tours for singles over 40. Many companies can find details and information about their customers. If you search for travel tours for singles over 40 years, the agencies will develop recommendations of a person having similar preferences. Travel tours for singles over 40 can provide you with additional fun with minimal spending.

Vacations For Singles Over 40

On vacations for singles over 40, you can increase your chances of making the friends you want by participating in various outdoor activities. In the process, you can meet some cool singles, a chance to make lifelong friends and have a good time. Many organizations inspire single men and women for outdoor activities such as beach parties, hikes, travel, and cruises on such vacations for singles over 40. A tour of the local park to sunbathe and relax can be a great opportunity to make a potential friend.

No matter what you do, you will have a great time and maybe even meet a friend who can be your partner for life. There is a way to get out and connect with nature, relax and connect with yourself with vacations for singles over 40 holidays. The possibilities are endless on vacations for singles over 40, and you will find yourself walking outside and having a fantastic time. You may also like boat tours or small group tours .

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Vacations for solo travelers.

Our  small group tours are ideal for solo travelers who want to really explore, and who want some good company along the way. All of our group tours are suitable for single travelers, no matter your age. In fact, with around 60% of our customers traveling solo on our tours, you're likely to have other solos in your group, so you'll instantly have something in common.  The average group size on our solo trips is just 11, so you'll have the opportunity to meet new friends looking for the same experiences as you are, but not too many to disrupt your trip. And you'll be led by a local  tour leader  with expert knowledge about your destination, who will keep you safe and ensure you have the best experience possible.

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FAQs for solo travelers

First time traveling alone on a group holiday? We've answered the top questions about traveling alone on an Explore tour:

No, there is no extra cost for traveling by yourself on our tours if you’re happy to share with another traveler. If you prefer a room of your own, there’ll be a single room supplement to pay. How much this is depends on the trip.

Yes, we build free time into our itineraries on the majority of our trips. Check the itinerary on the trip page where we detail the plan for each day, including available free time.

Our typical small group is 11 people, plus an Explore leader. Big enough to meet likeminded people, but small enough to get close to the destination you’re visiting. The exact size varies according to the type of trip, the transport and accommodation used and activities included. We rarely have groups that are smaller than five or six people or larger than 16. Usually around half of the travelers in each group are traveling solo.

Included in our trip price is a bed in a twin room, which you would share with another person in your group of the same sex. If you prefer a room of your own, you can choose to pay for our single room option (single supplement). This is available on most of our trips but may not apply to all nights - check the trip itinerary, where we state which nights have single room options. The single supplement cost varies according to the trip – see the trip pages for pricing.

Typically, we leave the evenings free on our tours, so you can enjoy free time to do whatever you choose. Your tour leader will be on hand to recommend local restaurants and things to do, and can organise bookings for you. It's up to you whether you eat with your whole group, in smaller groups or on your own. Some trips have evening activities, for example a meal with locals in a home stay or a sunset boat ride, but often these are optional. Check the trip page for a day-to-day breakdown of included meals and activities.

Of course! People travel alone with us for all sorts of reasons, not just because they're single. So if you're partner isn't able to join you on your trip, or isn't up for traveling, you'll still be in great company.

Yes, our customers' safety is our number one priority, so you'll be safe traveling with us. Being with a group is a sure way to stay safe, and our tour leader will also be with you to watch out for the whole group. As a local, your tour leader will be able to advise you on local customs and etiquette, common phrases and what to look out for. And in the unlikely event that something unexpected should happen before or during your trip, we pride ourselves on our swift and efficient response, so you can be assured that you’ll be well looked-after. Read more in our solo travel guide for women

Want to know more? Check out our solo travel guide . 

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The Golden Rules of Retirement Travel

By Stacey Lastoe

This is part of a collection of stories celebrating the many shapes retirement travel can take. Read more here.

Bonni and Bob Gumport travel regularly in their retirement. Not beholden to one short vacation a year (they average seven big ones), their compounding experience has allowed them to develop a code of rules by which they abide— tips and tricks to use wherever they go. After one too many of the small rooms common in boutique hotels, for example, they’ve cut them out entirely. Also out of the question are walking tours within two days of arrival in a new destination, as they prefer to settle in. Their daughter Lauren describes them as “pros on retiree travel,” but they are not the only ones with advice to give.

There are former museum curators who have learned not to overbook themselves; solo travelers who always learn a little of the local language. Adherence to anyone’s rules will never ensure a vacation free of hiccups, where no flight is ever delayed , every tour is worth the hours put in, and every meal sublime . But learning from others may improve your chances of a good time—even when things inevitably go sideways. We’ve spoken to over 20 retired travelers to hear how their Golden Years have informed the way that they travel. Below, find some of their savviest secrets for better trips.

1. Take a ride on the hop-on, hop-off bus tour

If she’s traveling in a city that offers one of those double-decker hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tours, Denver -based Heidi Burtoni, 65, who goes on multiple trips per year, is definitely stepping aboard. Burtoni says it’s a great way to figure out the rest of her itinerary, get tips from other travelers and the tour guide, and get a feel for the new city. “It’s the first thing I do to get the lay of the land,” says Burtoni. Her previous career in sales means the frequent solo traveler will “talk to anybody,” so these tours also open the door for socializing and making connections.

Know what to skip—“whether that means avoiding tourist traps, the most sweltering hours at fairs, or not putting yourself in danger by flagging a taxi when it's unsafe," says Lynn Zelevansky.

2. Figure out what to avoid

For Paul and Lynn Zelevansky (77 and 76, respectively), travel is less about hitting all the top spots and more about learning where not to go, “whether that means avoiding tourist traps, the most sweltering hours at fairs, or not putting yourself in danger by flagging a taxi when it’s unsafe.” They visit the Venice Biennale in fall, now, rather than at the opening, to avoid the worst of the crushes—it also helps them more effectively skirt the city's infamous pickpockets (Lynn's wallet was stolen on a crowded vaporetto ferry in 2022).

3. BYOTP (Bring Your Own Toilet Paper)

“Toilet paper in Europe is very scratchy … not good for sensitive parts,” says Florida native Karen Butera, an avid pickleball player who often travels with the sport in mind. Whenever overseas, she always travels with her own toilet paper. Butera, 66, is taking her granddaughter to see Taylor Swift in Paris this summer, and, yes, she will be packing TP—creature comforts are even more crucial on the road than they are at home.

4. Don’t overschedule

Packed-to-the-brim itineraries used to be J. Patrice Marandel’s MO, but these days, the former chief curator at Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is more keen on scheduling “plenty of time for the unexpected.” Gone are the nonstop days with planned breakfasts, lunches, and dinners; instead, Marandel, 79, leaves room for the possibility of something unexpected and “exciting.” It often pays off.

5. Pack light

Buffalo, New York-based Lisa LaLonde, 74, and her travel companion Antoinette Judelsohn, 70, whom she’s been traveling with for over a decade, are pros at packing light . The pals can manage for a month on very little, relying on the versatility of black leggings and black tops, says LaLonde. The trick? Develop a travel uniform, bring just a few versions, and wash undergarments as necessary, says Judelsohn. Big suitcases stuffed to the brim with a ton of different outfits are more of a hassle than a luxury. “They’re a pain in the neck if you’re getting on a train or off a train … or moving from one city to another,” says LaLonde.

“Anybody and their brother with an RV travels on Sunday,” warns Jenelle Jones.

6. Don't get (too) excited

Judelsohn, a former teacher who met LaLonde when they worked together at the same school in Buffalo, has another travel rule that’s served her well: Letting go of expectations. “I never get excited about a trip,” says Judelsohn. Instead, the savvy traveler lets the excitement emerge based on what's in front of her in the moment.

7. Avoid traveling on Sundays

RVer Jenelle Jones, 64, is against traveling on Sundays. As she puts it, “anybody and their brother with an RV travels on Sunday.” Long weekend RVers who have to get back for work on Monday use Sundays to head home, so retired Jones, 64, simply avoids the day altogether. It's also, according to her, the “biggest day to get in an RV wreck”— yet another reason to sit back and relax. You have nowhere you need to be, after all. Take advantage.

8. Learn a few words of the local language

Charlotte Simpson , whose blog Traveling Black Widow documents her travels (100 countries and counting so far), says her number one travel rule is to learn a few key phrases—hello, goodbye, please, thank you—in the dominant language of the places she visits. Simpson says her efforts are always well received. “I just find, inevitably, it sort of stuns people when I even just say good morning.” Simpson, who prefers not to reveal her age, says she gets a lot out of bridging the language gap with just a few words: “It just makes people so friendly and so happy that you took this moment to learn [their language].”

9. Travel slower

When you cram too much into a single trip, “the whole experience just kind of becomes a blur,” say Gillian Batt, 43, and Stephanie Myers, 51, whose blog Our Freedom Years documents their early retirement and subsequent travels. The couple, who hail from Ontario, Canada, say staying in one place for an extended period of time helps them avoid travel burnout, keep costs low, and enjoy the whole experience more. All that rushing around on limited PTO? Well behind them.

For RVers like Norm, keeping things flexible is key.

10. Go your own way

The pandemic crystallized things for Kim Kelly Stamp , 65, and her wife Liz Schick, 62, who left it all behind and decided to travel around the country in a red 21-foot teardrop trailer. They’ve since gotten really good at going with the flow. “We know where we’re going to stay along the way, but we hold that really loosely and give ourselves the opportunity to make something else happen,” explains Stamp. This approach led them to Laurel, Mississippi, where the HGTV show Hometown —of which Stamp and Schick are big fans of, is based. Instead of following a regimented schedule, they followed their passion when the road forked, literally.

11. Keep an open heart and mind

In spite of being seasoned travelers, John and Bev Martin, 60, who started the RetirementTravelers site to share their journey with others, admit they still need to remind themselves that they can’t control everything. “We have to be patient and receptive to the lessons the world is trying to teach,” says the couple. One that keeps coming up? “Retirement is not the time to stop dreaming about new and different routes in life.”

12. Do your research

The Gumports appreciate getting a taste of the local culture wherever they are traveling, and they’re not opposed to tours or experiences that deliver on this front. But Bonni has a few words of advice: “If you’re looking at purchasing something that uses words such as ‘bespoke, artisanal, farm-to-table’ and more fluffy adjectives, make sure these experiences are as authentic as they sound.” Read reviews thoroughly and take the time to research before you buy, advises Bonni. It's fun to be spontaneous, but it's easy to be misled by clever marketing and buzzwords.

13. It’s a marathon—not a sprint

It wasn’t long before Brenda Huyhn adopted—and adapted— a popular van-lifer rule: Don’t travel more than 3 hours, get in by 3 p.m., and stay at least 3 nights. Huyhn, who at 47 retired earlier than many, is adamant about not trying to do too much in one day to avoid burnout. She and her husband take their time, prioritizing “quality over quantity” with their stops and stays. It makes the entire experience all the richer.

14. You can always head home

Diana Petterson is on track to hit the 100-country mark just in time for her 70th birthday in 2026. But as much as the Black solo traveler loves seeing the world, she’s not afraid to ditch a trip if something isn’t working out. “Wherever I am in the world, if for whatever reason I am uncomfortable, or I don't feel well … I’m going to plop down that credit card , and get home.”

15. Start the day early to avoid the crowds

Artist Simma Liebman, 76, enjoys going to museums while visiting new cities and places. But since the retiree is immunocompromised, she plans these outings a little differently. Now Liebman hits the museums “as early in the day as possible” and masks up while taking in the art "unless there are very few people inside.” Whatever your motivation, rising early is something you can be sure the hordes of 20-something backpackers won't be doing. Beat them to all the best spots.

“I like a very good hotel, but not necessarily the best,” says Betty. Focus on getting the right location.

16. Base yourself strategically

Betty, 80, an art collector who declined to share her last name, has found that mid-sized hotels (meaning about 200 rooms) in central locations, with just enough of the services she wants and needs, do the job. “I like a very good hotel, but not necessarily the best,” says Betty. As long as you have the basics covered, it's really about location, location, location.

17. Don’t wait for tomorrow

Instead of putting off travel for a later date, Chicago -based Ruthie Maldonado-Delwiche advises those interested in exploring the world to get out there and “do it now.” Because “tomorrow isn’t promised,” Maldonado-Delwiche, who’s been traveling since she retired in 2017, says. Don't wait if there’s something you want to do or a place you want to visit.

Former psychiatrist Ann Heaslett, 60, who aims to run the six major world marathons in her retirement, feels exactly the same way. “There’s no time like the present.”

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What the data says about abortion in the U.S.

Pew Research Center has conducted many surveys about abortion over the years, providing a lens into Americans’ views on whether the procedure should be legal, among a host of other questions.

In a  Center survey  conducted nearly a year after the Supreme Court’s June 2022 decision that  ended the constitutional right to abortion , 62% of U.S. adults said the practice should be legal in all or most cases, while 36% said it should be illegal in all or most cases. Another survey conducted a few months before the decision showed that relatively few Americans take an absolutist view on the issue .

Find answers to common questions about abortion in America, based on data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Guttmacher Institute, which have tracked these patterns for several decades:

How many abortions are there in the U.S. each year?

How has the number of abortions in the u.s. changed over time, what is the abortion rate among women in the u.s. how has it changed over time, what are the most common types of abortion, how many abortion providers are there in the u.s., and how has that number changed, what percentage of abortions are for women who live in a different state from the abortion provider, what are the demographics of women who have had abortions, when during pregnancy do most abortions occur, how often are there medical complications from abortion.

This compilation of data on abortion in the United States draws mainly from two sources: the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Guttmacher Institute, both of which have regularly compiled national abortion data for approximately half a century, and which collect their data in different ways.

The CDC data that is highlighted in this post comes from the agency’s “abortion surveillance” reports, which have been published annually since 1974 (and which have included data from 1969). Its figures from 1973 through 1996 include data from all 50 states, the District of Columbia and New York City – 52 “reporting areas” in all. Since 1997, the CDC’s totals have lacked data from some states (most notably California) for the years that those states did not report data to the agency. The four reporting areas that did not submit data to the CDC in 2021 – California, Maryland, New Hampshire and New Jersey – accounted for approximately 25% of all legal induced abortions in the U.S. in 2020, according to Guttmacher’s data. Most states, though,  do  have data in the reports, and the figures for the vast majority of them came from each state’s central health agency, while for some states, the figures came from hospitals and other medical facilities.

Discussion of CDC abortion data involving women’s state of residence, marital status, race, ethnicity, age, abortion history and the number of previous live births excludes the low share of abortions where that information was not supplied. Read the methodology for the CDC’s latest abortion surveillance report , which includes data from 2021, for more details. Previous reports can be found at  stacks.cdc.gov  by entering “abortion surveillance” into the search box.

For the numbers of deaths caused by induced abortions in 1963 and 1965, this analysis looks at reports by the then-U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare, a precursor to the Department of Health and Human Services. In computing those figures, we excluded abortions listed in the report under the categories “spontaneous or unspecified” or as “other.” (“Spontaneous abortion” is another way of referring to miscarriages.)

Guttmacher data in this post comes from national surveys of abortion providers that Guttmacher has conducted 19 times since 1973. Guttmacher compiles its figures after contacting every known provider of abortions – clinics, hospitals and physicians’ offices – in the country. It uses questionnaires and health department data, and it provides estimates for abortion providers that don’t respond to its inquiries. (In 2020, the last year for which it has released data on the number of abortions in the U.S., it used estimates for 12% of abortions.) For most of the 2000s, Guttmacher has conducted these national surveys every three years, each time getting abortion data for the prior two years. For each interim year, Guttmacher has calculated estimates based on trends from its own figures and from other data.

The latest full summary of Guttmacher data came in the institute’s report titled “Abortion Incidence and Service Availability in the United States, 2020.” It includes figures for 2020 and 2019 and estimates for 2018. The report includes a methods section.

In addition, this post uses data from StatPearls, an online health care resource, on complications from abortion.

An exact answer is hard to come by. The CDC and the Guttmacher Institute have each tried to measure this for around half a century, but they use different methods and publish different figures.

The last year for which the CDC reported a yearly national total for abortions is 2021. It found there were 625,978 abortions in the District of Columbia and the 46 states with available data that year, up from 597,355 in those states and D.C. in 2020. The corresponding figure for 2019 was 607,720.

The last year for which Guttmacher reported a yearly national total was 2020. It said there were 930,160 abortions that year in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, compared with 916,460 in 2019.

• How the CDC gets its data: It compiles figures that are voluntarily reported by states’ central health agencies, including separate figures for New York City and the District of Columbia. Its latest totals do not include figures from California, Maryland, New Hampshire or New Jersey, which did not report data to the CDC. ( Read the methodology from the latest CDC report .)
• How Guttmacher gets its data: It compiles its figures after contacting every known abortion provider – clinics, hospitals and physicians’ offices – in the country. It uses questionnaires and health department data, then provides estimates for abortion providers that don’t respond. Guttmacher’s figures are higher than the CDC’s in part because they include data (and in some instances, estimates) from all 50 states. ( Read the institute’s latest full report and methodology .)

While the Guttmacher Institute supports abortion rights, its empirical data on abortions in the U.S. has been widely cited by  groups  and  publications  across the political spectrum, including by a  number of those  that  disagree with its positions .

These estimates from Guttmacher and the CDC are results of multiyear efforts to collect data on abortion across the U.S. Last year, Guttmacher also began publishing less precise estimates every few months , based on a much smaller sample of providers.

The figures reported by these organizations include only legal induced abortions conducted by clinics, hospitals or physicians’ offices, or those that make use of abortion pills dispensed from certified facilities such as clinics or physicians’ offices. They do not account for the use of abortion pills that were obtained  outside of clinical settings .

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The annual number of U.S. abortions rose for years after Roe v. Wade legalized the procedure in 1973, reaching its highest levels around the late 1980s and early 1990s, according to both the CDC and Guttmacher. Since then, abortions have generally decreased at what a CDC analysis called  “a slow yet steady pace.”

Guttmacher says the number of abortions occurring in the U.S. in 2020 was 40% lower than it was in 1991. According to the CDC, the number was 36% lower in 2021 than in 1991, looking just at the District of Columbia and the 46 states that reported both of those years.

(The corresponding line graph shows the long-term trend in the number of legal abortions reported by both organizations. To allow for consistent comparisons over time, the CDC figures in the chart have been adjusted to ensure that the same states are counted from one year to the next. Using that approach, the CDC figure for 2021 is 622,108 legal abortions.)

There have been occasional breaks in this long-term pattern of decline – during the middle of the first decade of the 2000s, and then again in the late 2010s. The CDC reported modest 1% and 2% increases in abortions in 2018 and 2019, and then, after a 2% decrease in 2020, a 5% increase in 2021. Guttmacher reported an 8% increase over the three-year period from 2017 to 2020.

As noted above, these figures do not include abortions that use pills obtained outside of clinical settings.

Guttmacher says that in 2020 there were 14.4 abortions in the U.S. per 1,000 women ages 15 to 44. Its data shows that the rate of abortions among women has generally been declining in the U.S. since 1981, when it reported there were 29.3 abortions per 1,000 women in that age range.

The CDC says that in 2021, there were 11.6 abortions in the U.S. per 1,000 women ages 15 to 44. (That figure excludes data from California, the District of Columbia, Maryland, New Hampshire and New Jersey.) Like Guttmacher’s data, the CDC’s figures also suggest a general decline in the abortion rate over time. In 1980, when the CDC reported on all 50 states and D.C., it said there were 25 abortions per 1,000 women ages 15 to 44.

That said, both Guttmacher and the CDC say there were slight increases in the rate of abortions during the late 2010s and early 2020s. Guttmacher says the abortion rate per 1,000 women ages 15 to 44 rose from 13.5 in 2017 to 14.4 in 2020. The CDC says it rose from 11.2 per 1,000 in 2017 to 11.4 in 2019, before falling back to 11.1 in 2020 and then rising again to 11.6 in 2021. (The CDC’s figures for those years exclude data from California, D.C., Maryland, New Hampshire and New Jersey.)

The CDC broadly divides abortions into two categories: surgical abortions and medication abortions, which involve pills. Since the Food and Drug Administration first approved abortion pills in 2000, their use has increased over time as a share of abortions nationally, according to both the CDC and Guttmacher.

The majority of abortions in the U.S. now involve pills, according to both the CDC and Guttmacher. The CDC says 56% of U.S. abortions in 2021 involved pills, up from 53% in 2020 and 44% in 2019. Its figures for 2021 include the District of Columbia and 44 states that provided this data; its figures for 2020 include D.C. and 44 states (though not all of the same states as in 2021), and its figures for 2019 include D.C. and 45 states.

Guttmacher, which measures this every three years, says 53% of U.S. abortions involved pills in 2020, up from 39% in 2017.

Two pills commonly used together for medication abortions are mifepristone, which, taken first, blocks hormones that support a pregnancy, and misoprostol, which then causes the uterus to empty. According to the FDA, medication abortions are safe  until 10 weeks into pregnancy.

Surgical abortions conducted  during the first trimester  of pregnancy typically use a suction process, while the relatively few surgical abortions that occur  during the second trimester  of a pregnancy typically use a process called dilation and evacuation, according to the UCLA School of Medicine.

In 2020, there were 1,603 facilities in the U.S. that provided abortions,  according to Guttmacher . This included 807 clinics, 530 hospitals and 266 physicians’ offices.

While clinics make up half of the facilities that provide abortions, they are the sites where the vast majority (96%) of abortions are administered, either through procedures or the distribution of pills, according to Guttmacher’s 2020 data. (This includes 54% of abortions that are administered at specialized abortion clinics and 43% at nonspecialized clinics.) Hospitals made up 33% of the facilities that provided abortions in 2020 but accounted for only 3% of abortions that year, while just 1% of abortions were conducted by physicians’ offices.

Looking just at clinics – that is, the total number of specialized abortion clinics and nonspecialized clinics in the U.S. – Guttmacher found the total virtually unchanged between 2017 (808 clinics) and 2020 (807 clinics). However, there were regional differences. In the Midwest, the number of clinics that provide abortions increased by 11% during those years, and in the West by 6%. The number of clinics  decreased  during those years by 9% in the Northeast and 3% in the South.

The total number of abortion providers has declined dramatically since the 1980s. In 1982, according to Guttmacher, there were 2,908 facilities providing abortions in the U.S., including 789 clinics, 1,405 hospitals and 714 physicians’ offices.

The CDC does not track the number of abortion providers.

In the District of Columbia and the 46 states that provided abortion and residency information to the CDC in 2021, 10.9% of all abortions were performed on women known to live outside the state where the abortion occurred – slightly higher than the percentage in 2020 (9.7%). That year, D.C. and 46 states (though not the same ones as in 2021) reported abortion and residency data. (The total number of abortions used in these calculations included figures for women with both known and unknown residential status.)

The share of reported abortions performed on women outside their state of residence was much higher before the 1973 Roe decision that stopped states from banning abortion. In 1972, 41% of all abortions in D.C. and the 20 states that provided this information to the CDC that year were performed on women outside their state of residence. In 1973, the corresponding figure was 21% in the District of Columbia and the 41 states that provided this information, and in 1974 it was 11% in D.C. and the 43 states that provided data.

In the District of Columbia and the 46 states that reported age data to  the CDC in 2021, the majority of women who had abortions (57%) were in their 20s, while about three-in-ten (31%) were in their 30s. Teens ages 13 to 19 accounted for 8% of those who had abortions, while women ages 40 to 44 accounted for about 4%.

The vast majority of women who had abortions in 2021 were unmarried (87%), while married women accounted for 13%, according to  the CDC , which had data on this from 37 states.

In the District of Columbia, New York City (but not the rest of New York) and the 31 states that reported racial and ethnic data on abortion to  the CDC , 42% of all women who had abortions in 2021 were non-Hispanic Black, while 30% were non-Hispanic White, 22% were Hispanic and 6% were of other races.

Looking at abortion rates among those ages 15 to 44, there were 28.6 abortions per 1,000 non-Hispanic Black women in 2021; 12.3 abortions per 1,000 Hispanic women; 6.4 abortions per 1,000 non-Hispanic White women; and 9.2 abortions per 1,000 women of other races, the  CDC reported  from those same 31 states, D.C. and New York City.

For 57% of U.S. women who had induced abortions in 2021, it was the first time they had ever had one,  according to the CDC.  For nearly a quarter (24%), it was their second abortion. For 11% of women who had an abortion that year, it was their third, and for 8% it was their fourth or more. These CDC figures include data from 41 states and New York City, but not the rest of New York.

Nearly four-in-ten women who had abortions in 2021 (39%) had no previous live births at the time they had an abortion,  according to the CDC . Almost a quarter (24%) of women who had abortions in 2021 had one previous live birth, 20% had two previous live births, 10% had three, and 7% had four or more previous live births. These CDC figures include data from 41 states and New York City, but not the rest of New York.

The vast majority of abortions occur during the first trimester of a pregnancy. In 2021, 93% of abortions occurred during the first trimester – that is, at or before 13 weeks of gestation,  according to the CDC . An additional 6% occurred between 14 and 20 weeks of pregnancy, and about 1% were performed at 21 weeks or more of gestation. These CDC figures include data from 40 states and New York City, but not the rest of New York.

About 2% of all abortions in the U.S. involve some type of complication for the woman , according to an article in StatPearls, an online health care resource. “Most complications are considered minor such as pain, bleeding, infection and post-anesthesia complications,” according to the article.

The CDC calculates  case-fatality rates for women from induced abortions – that is, how many women die from abortion-related complications, for every 100,000 legal abortions that occur in the U.S .  The rate was lowest during the most recent period examined by the agency (2013 to 2020), when there were 0.45 deaths to women per 100,000 legal induced abortions. The case-fatality rate reported by the CDC was highest during the first period examined by the agency (1973 to 1977), when it was 2.09 deaths to women per 100,000 legal induced abortions. During the five-year periods in between, the figure ranged from 0.52 (from 1993 to 1997) to 0.78 (from 1978 to 1982).

The CDC calculates death rates by five-year and seven-year periods because of year-to-year fluctuation in the numbers and due to the relatively low number of women who die from legal induced abortions.

In 2020, the last year for which the CDC has information , six women in the U.S. died due to complications from induced abortions. Four women died in this way in 2019, two in 2018, and three in 2017. (These deaths all followed legal abortions.) Since 1990, the annual number of deaths among women due to legal induced abortion has ranged from two to 12.

The annual number of reported deaths from induced abortions (legal and illegal) tended to be higher in the 1980s, when it ranged from nine to 16, and from 1972 to 1979, when it ranged from 13 to 63. One driver of the decline was the drop in deaths from illegal abortions. There were 39 deaths from illegal abortions in 1972, the last full year before Roe v. Wade. The total fell to 19 in 1973 and to single digits or zero every year after that. (The number of deaths from legal abortions has also declined since then, though with some slight variation over time.)

The number of deaths from induced abortions was considerably higher in the 1960s than afterward. For instance, there were 119 deaths from induced abortions in  1963  and 99 in  1965 , according to reports by the then-U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare, a precursor to the Department of Health and Human Services. The CDC is a division of Health and Human Services.

Note: This is an update of a post originally published May 27, 2022, and first updated June 24, 2022.

Support for legal abortion is widespread in many countries, especially in Europe

Nearly a year after roe’s demise, americans’ views of abortion access increasingly vary by where they live, by more than two-to-one, americans say medication abortion should be legal in their state, most latinos say democrats care about them and work hard for their vote, far fewer say so of gop, positive views of supreme court decline sharply following abortion ruling, most popular.

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Best Tours & Travel Groups for Singles

Travel groups bring together individuals with similar interests from all around the world! Many single travelers decide to join a group tour as it’s an ideal setting to share the experience amongst like-minded travelers.  

There are many solo travel groups available, as well as plenty of reasons why single travelers might opt to join one. Perhaps there’s a destination you’ve always wanted to visit, but would feel more comfortable traveling with an organized group.  

Maybe you’re no stranger to traveling alone, and are primarily interested in meeting new people in a group setting. Or, you might just appreciate the convenience of having the itinerary and logistics planned for you. 

There’s a multitude of options that cater to a wide variety of demographics, such as travel groups for singles over 40, tours for seniors traveling alone, and travel tours for singles in their 20s.

What are Group Tours?

Group tours are operated by companies that organize specific itineraries and arrange a wide variety of trips that cater to various demographics and interests. Travelers are transported through the exciting journey, within a small group setting. 

When traveling with a tour group, there’s no need to worry about small details or logistics. The tour company conveniently puts together a seamless itinerary, and handles your transportation and accommodations at each stop.

The best tours and travel groups for singles  offer a bit of everything! Various types of tours exist, including enchanting wildlife safaris, scenic walking tours, tasty culinary ventures, thrilling outdoor adventures, and many more!  

Take a deep dive into a destination you’ve always wanted to visit, as many tour companies offer sightseeing itineraries to a vast selection of countries! Read on below for tour operators that offer a wide array of exciting group tours to choose from, many of which are ideal for singles.  

Intrepid is a leading adventure tour company that organizes small group tours, offering over 1,000 trips to 100 countries! Pick your favorite worldwide destination to discover, or choose from a variety of tour themes, such as a walking tour through Italy’s Amalfi Coast, or an outdoor adventure in Peru.

G Adventures

G Adventures is a travel company that arranges small group tours, safaris, and expeditions, primarily focused on young people. Choose from a variety of interesting travel styles such as a wellness tour or an active tour. If you have a desired region in mind, select from one of many itineraries featuring that destination. Try an active tour to the Inca trail in Peru, or a sightseeing expedition in Morocco.  

Trafalgar is a tour operator that arranges trips to over 72 countries. Choose from a wide selection of creative itineraries that include your favorite destination, or select from a plethora of exciting travel themes!    Join a sightseeing tour and see the highlights of Ireland & Scotland, or explore European culture and history on a journey to Spain and Portugal.  

Exodus is a tour company that organizes trips to over 100 different countries! Exodus focuses on adventure, and features hundreds of interesting itineraries to select from. Try an active cycling tour, a sightseeing walking tour, or a thrilling wildlife experience. Exodus also offers a selection of group tours designed for solo travelers.

Discovering Group Tours for Solo Travelers

If you plan to travel alone, there are factors to consider when searching for a group tour. There’s an abundance of tours and travel groups for singles. Ask yourself the below questions to help narrow down your options and determine a tour that’s best suited for you.

When do you intend to travel?

When looking at a specific group tour, you might come across a list of intended departure dates and an itinerary of the destinations you will visit. Tour companies generally have pre-set departure dates for when a tour will take place. These can be far ahead, or closer to the current date. As the tour dates and itinerary are typically pre-arranged, this is something to be mindful of when planning your vacation, so that you can choose a date that works best for your schedule.

How long would you like to travel for?

Many tours range from 8 to 14 days long, as they account for travel time between cities, and allow you to experience the highlights of the cities visited. While it depends on the tour, many itineraries will typically visit 3 to 5 different destinations within that time frame. For certain experiences, you can also find tours as short as 5 days, tours as long as 24 days, and everything else in-between.

What type of activities interest you?

Tour companies typically offer various types of tours. Perhaps you would like to spend your days hiking in the forest, explore the food and culture of a country, or uncover historic landmarks in a city. A common theme offered is sightseeing-based tours. These tours transport you to a brand-new city or country and allow you to visit the notable attractions and top highlights. They are broad and generally appeal to most people.

There are also more specific tour themes for certain interests. For example, there are adventure tours that take you outdoors, culinary trips, and sailing or cruise expeditions. While you’ll often find single travelers in most groups, there’s also tours that specifically offer group trips for solo travelers.

Where do you want to go?

Is there a specific destination that you already have in mind? If not, flip through a travel magazine for ideas, or see our Solo Trip Guide  for inspiration. Tour companies will generally plan an itinerary that gives you the opportunity to visit various top cities within the same country or region. For those interested in group travel for singles, there’s a wide array of destinations to contemplate.

Try browsing through tour listings to see what piques your interest. Often, you’ll be able to see a group tour’s itinerary on the tour listing page, which displays the scheduled cities and the activities planned for each day.   

See More for Solo Travelers:

There’s a multitude of cities, adventures, and group tours for singles to consider. The best group trips for singles showcase the highlights of a destination and give you the opportunity to experience a new city alongside others.

However, if you’re looking for other travel styles where a creative itinerary is planned for you, or an engaging atmosphere where you have the opportunity to meet new people, you might be interested in a voyage on a cruise! Read the Best Cruises for Solo Travelers for more options!

If you prefer the excitement of planning your own trip and the flexibility of traveling at your own pace, there are plenty of amazing destinations and vacation experiences for single travelers featured on our website.

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