travelling solo 30s

I traveled a lot in my 20s, but solo travel is the best now that I'm in my 30s

• I did a lot of solo travel in my 20s but I like it even better in my 30s.
• I've matured and I value making connections around the world. 
• I've also realized I don't need to rush or try to cram everything into one trip. 

I visited 30 countries while I was in my 20s.

Most of the time, I traveled by myself, chasing parties worldwide . It resulted in many days wasted, money spent, and nights forgotten.

Friends would come and go, and at the time, I thought this was how travel was supposed to be. But as I entered my 30s, I realized I wasn't a 21-year-old on a mission to party five nights a week anymore.

Now, I prioritize exploring different cultures, connecting with new people , and learning more about local history.

Travel is way better this way.

My priorities began changing for the better as I entered my 30s

In time, my idea of a bucket list stopped being to see how many European bars I could cross off my list. Now, I try to see how many local haunts and historic sites I can visit during a trip while still giving myself time to relax.

Some of my most treasured days are spent cruising around the Croatian Islands with friends, wandering through the Scottish Highlands, and learning about the cultures through the eyes of the locals.

I also started putting myself out there and participating in group walking tours and hostel-organized activities to learn about cultures and local cuisines.

By doing things I truly enjoy, I began to find others with similar interests along the way. And exploring an unfamiliar country is even better when you do it with friends you can relate to.

I've also learned how to let myself rest. In my 20s, I'd jump from hostel to hostel with a backpack and a plan to live on the edge.

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No matter how tired I felt, I'd tell myself to keep going and power through. I've since realized some of the best evenings come from staying in with good friends.

And I know now that I'm not missing out on anything if I don't rush through my travels.

I also find myself making stronger connections now that I'm older

A decade ago, I was bouncing around countries and friendships.

The people I met in hostels were friends I'd drink with — we felt no need to talk about feelings or real-life problems.

In my 30s, I find myself chasing deeper connections.

I'm more mature in my approach, too. Dinner dates and coffee talks, where I learn more about people in a few hours than I used to in weeks, are my new norm.

Sure, I still go on the occasional hostel bar crawl, but I find more of my nights end in deep chats at 3 a.m. with friends I'll keep in touch with for life.

I'm more sure of myself, and I've gotten comfortable making my own decisions

With 30 comes a whirlwind of emotions and insecurities, but it also comes with a whole new appreciation for life, relationships, and the beauty of exploring new cities to find our place in the world.

It's come with confidence that's allowed me to open up and share experiences with new people. Now, I've got friends around the world .

No longer am I the timid girl in her early 20s, unable to say no and make difficult decisions. In my 30s, I tell myself I hold the dice and the odds are always in my favor.

Really, I've found my travel bliss — a harmonious marriage between freedom and independence.

Watch: This 27-year-old quit her corporate finance job to travel the world

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How to Travel Solo in Your 30s and 40s as a Woman

These are great tips!

Jennifer Effortlessly Sophisticated

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20 expert solo travel tips for women from the Lonely Planet team

Nov 17, 2023 • 10 min read

Solo travel is one of the most exciting and liberating experiences you can have © Deepa Lakshmin / Lonely Planet

If you’re eager to see the world, why hold out for the ideal travel companion? Solo journeys create indelible memories.

Yet while voyaging by yourself can exhilarate, it can also be dauting– especially for female travelers. That’s why we asked a few travel-expert colleagues here at Lonely Planet for ideas that any woman setting out alone should keep in mind.

Here are 20 tips to keep you safe, grounded and ready to set out for the trip of a lifetime. All by yourself.

1. Seek out female hosts (ideally with pets)

If I’m booking accommodation online, I tend to opt for women owners (preferably with pets in their host photos!). This is partly psychological – but I’ve also found that women tend to think about things like where to go to avoid crowds or safer alternatives to more touristy places. It’s nice how protective women are of each other, especially when we’re traveling alone.

– Akanksha Singh , Destination Editor 

2. Ease into it 

It can be tempting to throw yourself outside of your comfort zone all at once, but doing things alone – solo traveling, or even just going out to dinner or the movies by yourself – can feel intimidating at first. But it’s a muscle you build up over time. Start with a day trip or an afternoon wandering a museum you’ve always wanted to see but didn’t know who to go with. When I backpacked through Australia and New Zealand , I tacked on extra days at the end of group tours so I had solo time to explore (and decompress!) after nonstop socializing and being “on.” I’d already acclimated to the new-to-me destination while traveling with the group, which meant I had more confidence and knowledge to navigate the streets on my own.

– Deepa Lakshmin , Social Media Director

3. Consider hostels for connecting with like-minded people of all ages

Hostels are a great way to meet people, especially fellow solo female travelers. I truly believe you’re never too old for hostels. Many cater to people of various age groups and backgrounds, and offer private rooms for added comfort and privacy. I find it’s easier to meet like-minded people in communal settings – the kind of people who are eager to exchange travel tips and stories with you and who genuinely want you to have a good time. I’ve made lifelong connections with people I’ve met in hostels. 

– Sasha Brady , Digital Editor 

4. Start with a solo afternoon

I’m not quite 100% to the point where I’m ready to dive into solo travel, so I like to just carve out a day or an afternoon of Rachy Adventures when I’m traveling with friends or my wife. (Said adventure often involves a croissant and an overpriced latte.) Some of my absolute favorite parts of a trip have been a rainy afternoon spent wandering alone in Boston , or sitting alone with a good book on a largely empty beach, taking in the waves.

– Rachel Lewis, Senior Social Media Manager 

5. Book some group activities

If you’re feeling apprehensive about taking a big solo trip, arrange a tour or activity for each day. This way your days will be organized around a preplanned group event. I made connections from all over the world on a solo trip to Australia in my early 20s – and 20 years on, am still in regular touch with a Swedish woman I met on a boat trip to the Great Barrier Reef .

– Fionnuala McCarthy , Editorial Director

6. Hop on a boat or a bus

I get my bearings by taking either a hop-on, hop-off bus tour or a boat tour. On my first solo trip to Paris , I decided to take a cruise down the Seine – during which I wrote out my plans for the trip and got to know people by offering to snap their photograph. I also find spending time in local bookstores to be a great way to immerse myself in the destination as well as meet fellow travelers and locals who seem very happy to help and offer tips and advice. 

– Brekke Fletcher , Senior Director of Content

7. Bring a book 

I’ve cycled and hiked and taken trains all over the world by myself, and I never did any of it without a book on hand. Waiting on delayed trains, sitting down to meals, relaxing in a bar at the end of the day: all of these situations are improved with a book. Reading can also be a useful way to put off any potential unwanted conversation. A woman on her own can be a magnet for chatterers, and I’m not always in the mood to talk to strangers when traveling.

– Amy Lynch , Destination Editor

8. Indulge your hobbies

Look for activities related to what you already like to do at home. For example, I love to thrift-shop, so I’ll often look up secondhand or charity shops in foreign cities: it’s a great way to get a sense for local fashions and find unique souvenirs. I also love to embroider, and I’ve spent hours at textile galleries, oohing over fine needlework and learning about local fiber-art traditions. I couldn’t do that with a bored travel companion.

– Morgan Wegner, Senior Operations Editor

9. Embrace “yes!” – within reason

One of the best things about solo travel is the freedom to make or break plans whenever you want. Some of my favorite travel memories (including meeting my husband!) are because I took a chance and made a plan with new friends over an impromptu drink or meal. Celebrate saying “yes” to things you wouldn’t normally do – but trust the voice in your head at the same time. If the hair on the back of your neck stands up at a turn Google is telling you to make, take a different route. Learn to expand your boundaries – while trusting your intuition.

– Erin Lenczycki, Photo Editor

10. Be present

Traveling by yourself is a great opportunity to be mindful. With no need to rush or please anyone else, I find myself doing a lot of thinking and reflecting while traveling alone. I try to limit my interaction with my phone as well to really enjoy the quiet. I find some of my most vivid traveling memories have come from these trips.

– AnneMarie McCarthy , Destination Editor

11. Plan rest days

For every seven to 10 days of travel, set aside a day to breathe. Sleep in, treat yourself to a nice meal or just give your legs a break. If you can resist the pressure to program every moment of your trip, you won’t feel like you’re “wasting” your time. This is especially true when you’re traveling solo and not on anyone else’s schedule. 

– Ann Douglas Lott , Associate Editor

12. Use apps to your advantage (and with headphones)

When navigating a new city on foot, plug your destination into a maps app, then listen to the walking directions through headphones. This allows you to avoid pulling out a map – which is equivalent to waving a flag printed with “tourist!” Most importantly, when you’re making your plans, try to resist fear (which is used to manufacture headlines and generate clicks). Language and cultural barriers can raise discomfort, which will make you hyper-aware of your surroundings. But that doesn’t mean said surroundings are unsafe. 

– Jessica Lockhart, Destination Editor

13. Go on a food tour

One thing that makes a lot of solo travelers apprehensive is the thought of dining alone. But if you join a food tour, you’ll have dining companions for the evening and the opportunity to try out a bunch of new restaurants ⁠— all while learning about the local culture. I joined a food tour of Trastevere while traveling solo in Rome : not only did I get to meet fellow travelers, but the tour included a mix of casual street-food spots (excellent for solo travelers) and restaurants. After you check these places out in a group, you may feel more relaxed coming back on your own for a solo-dining experience.

– Alex Butler , Managing Editor 

14. Travel with a power bank

Traveling alone, you will most likely be using your phone more than usual to take photos and videos, and for navigating maps. Even if your phone has a reliable battery, it’s always good to know you have a backup, especially if you’re on your own. There are plenty of small and lightweight power banks that you can purchase to slot into your bag when on the road.

– Zara Sekhavati, Destination Editor

15. Share your location 

To ensure peace of mind, I make it a habit to inform at least one person back home of my whereabouts using the Find My Friend app , which allows them to track my location in real time. While it can be reassuring for safety reasons, what I appreciate the most about it is the tangible sense of connection it provides. My family, in particular, loves that they can place me on a map and accompany me virtually on my explorations.

– Sasha Brady

16. Traveling solo doesn’t mean traveling alone

For me, traveling solo can be a great way to meet new, like-minded people. Join a tour group like G Adventures or Intrepid for an entire trip, book a day tour with GetYourGuide , find a class for something you’re passionate about like art or cooking, research some of the digital-nomad meetups, find a bar where they show the games of your favorite team…there are lots of ways to forge new friendships on the road. 

– Melissa Yeager , Senior Editor 

17. Don’t wait for a partner

I’ve traveled solo to places like Hawaii , the Amalfi Coast and the Dominican Republic . When I tell these stories, someone will occasionally say something to me like, “Oh, I want to go there on my honeymoon, so I’m waiting to take that trip.” My advice? Don’t wait. If you want to somewhere, even a place with a reputation as a “romantic” destination or a honeymoon getaway, go anyway. There are so many ways to enjoy a destination and to make your own memories, with or without another person. If resorts or entire destinations cater specifically to couples, you will see a different – and sometimes more interesting – side of it by going solo.   

– Laura Motta , Senior Director of Content

18. Don’t overshare

The temptation to share your entire trip via social media can be overwhelming – especially if you’re having a fantastic time. But for safety concerns, it’s best to avoid sharing every movement with every follower until you return home. Not only do real-time posts alert people to where you are during every part of your trip, but they also let folks know you’re not home. Consider sharing your photos and videos from the road just with a close number of friends, or wait until your trip is over to flood your social media. 

– Alicia Johnson , Destination Editor

19. Role-play at restaurants

Dining alone can be the best kind of mini-adventure. You can chat with the bartender – often a wealth of local knowledge – or other patrons. You can play at being an international woman of mystery and hunker down with a book or a notebook and pen. And if you’ve had a long day of sightseeing, sometimes it feels good to just sit at a quiet table and fiddle with your phone. The best part? Solo diners can often glide right to the front of the line at popular and award-winning restaurants, even without a reservation. 

– Laura Motta

20. Feel your feelings – and cry when you need to

Especially if you’re traveling alone for the first time. Especially if you’re far away from everything you’ve ever known. Especially if you feel confused or lonely or out of place. I’ve shed tears in more airports than I care to admit. You’re outside your comfort zone, and that’s scary! It’s normal to feel homesick and miss the people, places and routines that feel familiar to you. But you probably embarked on a solo adventure because some part of you craves something new – and any change requires getting comfortable with being uncomfortable, at least for a little bit. It’s OK to go through it.

– Deepa Lakshmin

This article was first published May 2019 and updated November 2023

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Solo Traveler

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

The Ultimate Solo Travel Guide: Travel Alone & Love It

January 4, 2024 by Janice Waugh

What is solo travel? After 15 years of traveling solo, I've concluded that it is two things. Solo travel can be done independently or on a group tour. Essentially, solo travel is when you leave behind everyone you know and embark on a trip. Independent solo travel is when you plan and navigate the travel yourself. Group solo travel is when you join a tour or cruise alone. Both provide the unique experience of exploring the world without family and friends who have expectations of you. It's about discovering who you are when no one (that you know) is looking.

Traveling alone delivers access to the world in ways that other forms of travel don't. It is an essential mode of travel, at least some of the time.

However, not everyone takes to it naturally. Some worry about traveling solo. There are concerns around loneliness, safety, and more.

While we have hundreds of articles on the site that get into the details of how to travel solo, here, in one place, is the ultimate guide for those who want to travel alone. The tips in this post will help you have the best experience possible. They will help you travel alone and love it.

If you are traveling independently, read on.

If you plan to go on an organized tour, don't miss our page of tours with no or low single supplement . It's updated at least once a month and if you'd like to receive it via email you can sign up here .

Table of Contents

Why You Will Love Solo Travel

When you travel alone, you travel on your terms. You get to do what you want, when you want. You can connect with people if you wish or avoid them completely. Those are the obvious benefits for going solo as a traveler.

But there are many benefits of solo travel that affect your whole life. The experience encourages you to stretch and grow as a person. You gain confidence and get better at problem solving. You understand yourself better, become more independent, and become a more interesting person.

For more, read Why Travel Solo? 15 Reasons Going Alone Makes Travel Better . Now, let's get on to the ultimate solo travel guide.

Your Guide for Planning to Travel Alone

Planning a solo trip takes a bit of time and thought. To cover everything, this would be an extremely long article. Instead, I'm pointing you to some of the basic planning posts on Solo Traveler. There over 600 posts on Solo Traveler. This just takes you to the ones that cover the fundamentals.

• Solo Travel Planning Guide with Trends, a Checklist, and Insider Tips
• Solo Travel Safety: 50+ Proven Tips to Keep You Safe
• Carry-On Packing List That Makes Sense: Traveler Tested
• Best Accommodation for Solo Travelers
• A Complete Guide to Travel Insurance for Solo Travelers
• Eating Alone Is Easy When You Know How

Ultimate Tips to Travel Alone and Love It!

Let's get into the experience of traveling alone.

For some people, enjoying a solo trip comes naturally. Others have to work at how to travel alone. Most who do, fall in love with it. Here are a few things you can do to ensure a great solo adventure.

1. Visualize the trip you want. It's all about you.

Start thinking about the opportunities that are present when you travel alone long before you leave. Is it down time you really want? Build that into the plan. Are you after a creative travel experience ? Research the opportunities before you go and then dream on them until you get there.

2. Gather firsthand knowledge before you go. Personal stories tell you more.

Talk to people who have already traveled to your destination. Doing this was so incredibly helpful when planning my trip to Patagonia. At the time, no amount of research helped me plan the logistics. Talking to people who had made a similar trip gave me insight into the travel options and tips on how to avoid the mistakes they had made. Use your social network to find people. Join online meetup groups based in your destination. Find expat groups at your destination. By talking to people you will learn more about things to do as well as things that are not really for you.

3. Learn to chat with strangers.

Starting conversations with strangers can be a challenge, especially when you're an introvert like I am. However, these conversations can be trip-changing, if not life-changing. There are many skills that can be developed for this and one is never too old to learn them. In fact, it was only when traveling alone after my husband passed away that I learned how much I had grown and taken on the techniques of an extrovert. I learned that I could talk to strangers easily.

4. Tap the experience of the people you meet. Get current information.

As a solo traveler, you'll meet more travelers and locals than those who travel with a partner. Ask a traveler about the best thing they've done so far or a local for the best hidden gem restaurant in the area. The people you meet and the advice they offer will greatly enrich your trip.

5. Be flexible with your plans. Opportunities arise!

When suggestions or opportunities arise from these chance encounters, be flexible enough to act on them. There are times when flexibility must reign and the schedule should be thrown away. I do this most often on road or rail trips.

6. Don't over-plan. You will absolutely need relaxing time.

Managing your travels yourself takes more energy than if you are with someone else. It is important to have extra time in your itinerary to wander a market leisurely, linger over a coffee at an outdoor café, or take that trip into the mountains you hadn't considered.

7. Be patient. Take time to settle in and learn how the city works.

It can be difficult arriving in a new city alone. Take your time. Take a day to relax, watch the city function, and settle in. Read Solo Travel Confidence: How to Be Strong, Capable, and Safe .

8. Explore your destination at different levels. Gain different perspectives.

In London, it's natural to take the Tube. However, riding on the top of a double-decker bus gives you another perspective on the city. But you still wouldn't want to miss the Tube as it's an experience unto itself. My point is, explore the city in as many ways as possible: on foot, by bicycle, via public transit. Take a taxi and talk to the driver. Rent a car and learn what it's like to park or drive on the opposite side of the road. Every mode of movement offers new perspectives.

9. Take in local events. Get to know the daily life of a culture.

Whether it's a street festival or a sporting event, these are opportunities to rub shoulders with locals, offering insight into the culture and, potentially, fun conversations. Events made for tourism will not be as successful for this as events created by and for locals.

10. Be proactive if you’re unsure of yourself.

Ask for help. Standing around looking dazed will not get you where you want to go and it may get you noticed by the wrong people. Go ahead, smile, and ask for help. It's one of the fundamentals of staying safe as you travel solo .

11. Eat locally! Discover the culture through food.

There is nothing like exploring the local cuisine. It gives you a new path into your destination's culture, history, and geography. There is always a reason, historical or geographic, for a specific cuisine that can be explored through your tastebuds and your mind.

12. Shop where the locals shop.

Are you into home renovations? Then a hardware store in another country could be quite interesting. Are you a foodie? Go to the grocery store or the street where all the specialty vendors are located. Are you into fashion or interior decorating? Again, explore (you don't have to buy) where the locals shop.

13. Know which way is up. An old-school map is your friend.

Study a map of your destination. Get to know it. Get a sense of direction using major landmarks like Central Park in New York City or the CN Tower in Toronto. This will help you explore cities happily, with greater confidence. Read How to Navigate a New City Solo .

13. Find people who share your passion.

Whether it's chess or poetry or badminton or books, there will be hubs or groups that share your passion at your destination. Many destinations have an English bookstore which is typically a great resource for events you will want to attend. Google search or find them on meetup.com. What a great way to combine your love of travel with your love of other things.

14. Take day tours and classes.

There are many benefits to punctuating your independent trip with local tours such as cooking classes . You have new ways to better experience your destination, enjoy some social time (after all, solo travelers are not necessarily loners), and you get to take a break and let the tour company run the logistics and planning of the experience.

15. Have great evenings out.

Just because you're traveling solo doesn't mean you have to stay in at night with a book. There are many options for things to do in the evening. If you're in a country where you don't speak the language, music is a good bet. Read What to Do at Night When Traveling Alone and How to Enjoy Going to a Bar Alone When You Travel .

What If You Don't Love Solo Travel?

Let's face it, not everyone likes the same thing. Some people will travel alone and, for one reason or another, not enjoy it.

The first thing I suggest is that you be patient. You're not going to find your solo travel groove on the first day of your first trip. You need to give yourself some time to settle into your destination and apply some of the many travel alone tips above.

If, then, you're still not loving it, read  What If You Travel and You Don’t Love It ? and the advice of other solo travelers in Feeling Overwhelmed? How to Conquer First-Day Solo Travel Anxiety .

Round Out Your Guide to Solo Travel with These Resources

Here are a few posts to explore to help you plan your best solo trip.

• How to Save Money for Travel
• How to Plan Your Travel Budget: Luxury or Frugal
• Best Solo Travel Destinations: Real Solo Travelers Love These
• Feeling the Pinch? Solo Travelers Save Money at The Airport
• How to Get Through an Airport by Yourself with Ease
• Carry On Packing List That Makes Sense: Traveler Tested
• Checked Baggage: Top Planning and Packing Tips.
• Best VPN for Travel: What, Why, How & New Recommendations
• Road Trip Alone with Confidence: 10 Tips for a Great Trip

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Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

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The content of Solo Traveler and any resources published by Solo Traveler are meant for entertainment and inspiration only. Please note that while we have advertising clients promoting destinations, products, services, trips and tours on Solo Traveler and that we endeavour to only work with companies in which we have confidence, we are not responsible for the delivery or quality of their products or services. Every person and every travel situation is different. Your safety, satisfaction and fun traveling solo are your responsibility alone and not that of Solo Traveler, its publisher, editor and/or writers.

PRIVACY POLICY & DISCLOSURE: In accordance with FTC guidelines, I disclose that I may be compensated if consumers choose to utilize links located throughout the content on this site. Additionally, some posts might be sponsored to support this site. Please do the appropriate research before participating in any third party offers. All opinions are my own. Please read our full Privacy Policy here.

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21 Best Solo Travel Vacations for Singles in their 30s

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Alright, my single friends in your 30s! I only have 2 months left in my 30s to write this 🙂 So consider this your elder’s wise, wise words. I began solo traveling in 2014. I took my first solo international trip in 2018, and I have loved every single solo road trip and solo trip I’ve taken! So let’s get into it.

Disclosure: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. 

What’s your Travel Style?

First things first (I’m a realist), you have to decide if your vacation is for leisure. Or is it for sightseeing? Or do you want a good old-fashioned combo platter? I personally like the combo platter – I like to go places where I can read a book all day in a hammock but also go see their best sights. I talk more in-depth about how I plan (or unplan) a trip in this podcast episode ! But deciding on what your travel style will be for your next vacation is a good thing. That way you have made sure that you have the best singles vacation you can imagine!

Now, are we driving from where you are? Flying in a plane? What time of year is it? Don’t count out a singles cruise.

Check the best destinations for day trips – sometimes it’s very helpful to have a bus drive you to the Grand Canyon instead of having to do it yourself!  I love a wine tour and want someone else to drive – it also means I get a little bit of people’s time on the tour and it’s only a day so I’m not locked into their itinerary.

Here are the Eleven Best Places for Singles in their 30s to visit in the US:

• The Grand Canyon is a top spot for any intrepid traveler looking for a solo adventure and a trip of a lifetime. Take an inclusive package and be accompanied by like-minded solo travelers and local guides who will take care of the heavy lifting, so you can focus on the stunning views and finding the perfect travel partner.
• Yellowstone National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and bookworms alike, with its stunning scenery and opportunities for solo departures. Wild Women Expeditions is one of the best companies for female travelers looking for a love affair with the great outdoors and a good book.
• The Pacific Coast Highway is the perfect way to explore California’s best vacation spots, with great food and the opportunity to meet like-minded travelers. For those seeking a trip of a lifetime, consider taking a tour with one of the best travel companies that offer solo departures and small group tours.
• Route 66 is a classic road trip destination and a top spot for singles looking for a good trip and new things to explore. Book with a travel buddy or join a group tour for the best experience. Grab a free audiobook before you go.
• The Great Smoky Mountains offer a great vacation for year-olds and are one of the best cities to explore for nature lovers. Take a solo adventure or join a tour with like-minded solo travelers and discover the region’s rich history and culture. The Rocky Mountains are a top spot for adventurous travelers looking for a perfect holiday with plenty of opportunities for hiking and skiing. Join a tour with one of the best travel companies for solo departures and meet other like-minded travelers.
• The Florida Keys are a great vacation spot for those seeking inclusive packages and a chance to relax and unwind. Join a tour with a travel partner or go solo and meet other like-minded solo travelers.
• The New England states are a good trip for those seeking a type of trip that combines fall foliage, charming small towns, and fresh seafood. Join a tour with like-minded solo travelers and discover the region’s unique culture and history.
• The Southwest is a top spot for adventurous travelers looking for heavy lifting and a chance to explore the region’s stunning desert landscapes and national parks. Join a tour with one of the best companies for solo departures and discover the best cities and local guides. If you haven’t looked at the mountain town of Taos – make sure you do.
• The Chesapeake Bay is a great vacation spot for those seeking an inclusive package and a chance to explore charming small towns and beautiful beaches. Join a tour with like-minded solo travelers and discover the region’s rich history and seafood.
• Austin, Texas: Austin is known for its lively music scene, great food, and outdoor activities. It’s a city that celebrates creativity and individuality, with a diverse range of neighborhoods, such as South Congress and East Austin. There are plenty of festivals throughout the year, including South by Southwest (SXSW) and Austin City Limits (ACL) music festival
• Portland, Oregon: Portland is a laid-back city that’s known for its craft beer, coffee, and food scene. It’s also surrounded by natural beauty, with the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood just a short drive away. The city has a thriving arts and music scene, with plenty of quirky shops and galleries to explore. There are also plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking.

Here are the Ten Best Solo Travelers in their 30s for International Destinations:

• Canada: Known for its friendly people, stunning natural beauty, and low crime rate, Canada is a great destination for solo travelers seeking adventure. With national parks and boutique hotels to explore, solo travelers can also join small group tours and meet new friends.
• Japan: A safe and welcoming country with a rich culture and interesting cities to explore, Japan is a popular destination for solo travelers in their 30s. Walking tours, live music, and local cuisine offer unique experiences while meeting like-minded travelers.
• Australia: With a laid-back culture and diverse outdoor activities, Australia is a must-visit for solo travelers. Explore the beautiful beaches and national parks on small group trips or solo adventures, with free time to immerse yourself in the local culture.
• New Zealand: A small and welcoming country with friendly locals and beautiful landscapes, New Zealand is a perfect destination for solo travelers looking for a bucket list trip. Small group tours offer a chance to explore the stunning natural beauty and meet interesting people along the way.
• Iceland: Iceland’s stunning natural beauty and unique culture make it a safe and welcoming destination for solo travelers. Small group tours provide a chance to explore the local culture, boutique hotels, and beautiful landscapes while having your own room and free time to explore.
• Costa Rica: With beautiful beaches, national parks, and eco-tourism opportunities, Costa Rica is a popular destination for solo travelers seeking adventure. Join small group trips to explore the local culture and natural beauty while meeting fellow travelers.
• Vietnam: Vietnam’s rich culture and affordable prices make it a great destination for solo travelers. Small group tours provide a chance to explore hidden gems and the best vacation spots while meeting new people along the way.
• Portugal: With beautiful beaches, charming cities, and rich history, Portugal is a safe and welcoming destination for solo travelers. Small group tours offer a chance to explore the local culture, live music, and wine tastings while meeting new friends.
• Italy: Italy’s rich culture, beautiful cities, and delicious food make it a popular destination for solo travelers. Small group trips offer a chance to explore hidden gems and boutique hotels while having your own room and free time to explore.
• Singapore: A modern city-state with a diverse culture and many interesting attractions to visit, Singapore is a safe and welcoming destination for solo travelers. Small group tours provide a chance to explore the local cuisine, live music, and tour guides while meeting new people along the way.

10 Tips on Solo Traveling

• Research your destination: Do your research before you go and learn about the local culture, customs, and language. Knowing what to expect can make your solo travel experience smoother and more enjoyable.
• Stay in hostels or Airbnb rentals: Hostels and Airbnb rentals are great options for solo travelers, as they offer the chance to meet other travelers and locals. Hostels often have common areas where you can socialize and meet like-minded people.
• Use public transportation: Public transportation is a great way to get around and explore your destination. It’s often cheaper than taking taxis or renting a car, and it gives you the chance to see more of the local culture.
• Meet other travelers: Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with other travelers you meet along the way. You may find that you have a lot in common and can explore together.
• Stay connected with family and friends: Letting your loved ones know your itinerary and checking in with them regularly can give you peace of mind while traveling solo. You can also share your experiences with them and get their advice on what to see and do.
• Be open to new experiences: Solo travel is all about stepping out of your comfort zone and trying new things. Be open to new experiences, whether it’s trying new food, taking a different route, or striking up a conversation with a stranger.
• Join a tour group: Joining a tour group is a great way to meet other solo travelers and explore your destination with a knowledgeable guide. Look for small group tours that cater to solo travelers or those in their 30s.
• Embrace solo time: While it’s great to meet new people and explore with others, don’t forget to take some time for yourself. Use your solo time to reflect, recharge, and explore at your own pace.
• Stay safe: Safety should always be a top priority when traveling solo. Research your destination beforehand and take precautions such as avoiding unlit areas at night, not carrying too much cash, and being aware of your surroundings.
• Have fun: Solo travel is a great opportunity to explore, learn, and have fun. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new things.

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There are many amazing destinations around the world that are perfect for travelers in their 30s. Whether you’re looking to explore vibrant cities, relax on a beach, or immerse yourself in a new culture, there’s a destination out there that will suit your interests and travel style. By following my tips for finding your travel style and solo travel tips, you’ll be well-equipped to plan the trip of a lifetime. Remember to stay open-minded, be flexible, and embrace the unexpected. 

Happy travels!

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WHY SOLO TRAVEL?

Traveling alone leads to improved confidence, independence, and self-discovery. Although Under30Experiences hooks you up with a detailed itinerary, local guide, and a fantastic group of travelers, taking the first step to leave the country alone is a HUGE accomplishment! When you travel alone you can expect to learn a lot about yourself. You'll be surprised to find how easy it is to open up and start conversations with others. Solo travel also gives you the unique opportunity to reinvent yourself. Gone are all the preconceived notions about you from your peers back home... traveling abroad gives you a fresh start.

Having the courage to step outside your comfort zone, face your fears, and challenge yourself can help you learn more about yourself and the world. However, it is common for some women to feel nervous or intimidated about traveling solo. ‍ We’re here to help! Under30Experiences gives you the tools to be confident, smart, and informed while traveling abroad alone for the first time. Recent Female Solo Travel Stats: A recent travel industry study found that 86 percent of women state that they are not afraid to travel regardless of what is going on in the world today; 73 percent of women feel that travel has made them stronger; and 69 percent of women draw inspiration from travel. How many women are on your trips? On average about 75% of our travelers are women. The majority of those are traveling solo. Will my roommate be the same gender? Yes! Same gender roommates are guaranteed unless you request to room with a friend or significant other.

Don’t let your fears or thoughts of loneliness keep you from traveling the world! Under30Experiences is the perfect option for your first international solo trip, here’s why... Safety: ‍ Does the thought of being alone abroad make you nervous about personal safety? ‍ Safety is our number one priority, and we have years of experience leading groups all over the globe. In fact, many of the countries we visit consistently top the top destinations for solo travelers. Plus, all our Trip Leaders are First Aid & CPR certified, and have been routinely trained in emergency preparedness. We try to form a "team" environment among our groups where we all look out for one another... as they say, there is strength in numbers. And, you'll be happy to know we have a zero-tolerance rule for bullying, harassment, and hate speech. Any violators of these rules will be asked to leave our trip. ‍ Logistics: ‍ Don't worry about planning transportation & accommodations. We've got you covered. ‍ We take the hard work out of traveling abroad. U30X is designed for busy young adults who want to make the most out of their vacation days. Traveling internationally can be intimidating and time-consuming. You can leave the planning to us, as we organize activities to maximize your itinerary. It’s our job to be experts in these areas, have the local contacts, and give you the trip of a lifetime! Our Trip Leaders and Regional Managers are experienced in the local areas where we travel, have local connections, emergency contacts, and vet our activities for quality and safety carefully. ‍ Like-Minded Travelers: ‍ Solo travel doesn't have to mean being alone. ‍ It’s normal for the idea of traveling alone to bring up worries of loneliness. By traveling with Under30Experiences you are guaranteed to meet a group of up to eighteen travelers, both male & female. The majority of our travelers come alone and are eager to meet other young adults who share a passion for travel and an itch for adventure. Being "like-minded" means having similar values and a love for travel... but we hope you'll find our community full of people with different thoughts, ideas, and backgrounds who bring their own unique experiences to our groups. ‍ Peace of Mind: ‍ Sometimes the hardest part about traveling solo is ensuring your loved ones that you are going to be safe. Letting them know that you’ll be in good hands will help them sleep at night--and you may even find a new wave of support!

How likely are you to talk to a group of strangers while you're traveling with friends or family? Probably not so likely. Traveling with Under30Experiences is perfect for solo travelers because you meet new people right from the start. You don't need to worry about coming alone because a vibrant group of travelers is waiting for you at the airport when you arrive (most of whom are also traveling solo). ‍ After your trip, you become part of our travel community! In our alumni community you get access to exclusive pre-sale opportunities, weekend domestic trips, and an online platform to share travel resources, career opportunities, and more! PLUS : More than 70% of our travelers come solo.

How many times have you been on a trip where you really wanted to do something but your friends weren't interested? Solo travel allows you to try new things without being tied down to other people's desires. On U30X trips you can select your optional experiences and always opt out of an activity to do your own thing.

We have more than 500 Five Star Reviews! See for yourself. Here are our Yelp and Facebook reviews. Or check out this video featuring some U30X solo travelers! ‍

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Singles vacations for over 30s

Solo tours for 30 to 40 year olds.

All of our inspiring small group adventure tours are ideal for single travelers over 30, from walking trips to safaris, cycling adventures to cultural and foodie trips. And you’ll be in good company – around half the people in our small groups are typically traveling solo. You'll have all the excitement of traveling solo, but you'll never be alone as our small group trips are designed to offer authentic and often action-packed experiences with like-minded people, plus an expert group leader who takes care of all the day-to-day details for you. That means all you have to do is arrive and enjoy your trip, whether you want to be active and adventurous on one of our  Multi-Activity trips  or a scenic and challenging Cycling adventure or  Walking tour , or you want to get to know a new corner of the world and meet the locals on a  Discovery trip. Even if it's your first time traveling solo, you'll fit right in with your group and have an adventure to remember! New to Explore? Read more about traveling solo with us in our blog, which answers some of the most-asked questions. Please note our tours are not limited to 30 and 40 year olds , there may be a wider range of ages on the trip.

Adventure tours for singles over 30

At Explore, adventure tours are our speciality. That includes  adventure tours for single travelers , as we offer a variety of trip styles, themes and paces to suit every taste and energy level. Our Cultural Discovery trips are extremely popular for over 30s solo's as we plan your itinerary with daily activities, accommodation and transport, plus many meals, so you can focus on the adventure. Our faster-paced cultural trips include European group tours, such as the Journey through the Balkans trip, a 12-day tour around one of the world's most intriguing areas with plenty of opportunities to discover history, nature and Balkan city culture too. Foodies won't want to miss our  Classical Sicily  trip, where in between visits to spectacular and well-preserved archaeological sites there will be plenty of opportunities to indulge in exquisite local food and wine. Fancy venturing further afield? Explore Imperial cities, breathtaking mountain ranges and vast gorges on the  Highlights of Morocco  group trip, or become a  China Explorer  as we guide you through the Forbidden City, along the Great Wall and towards Shanghai, China's vibrant, modern city that cannot be missed.

Active adventures for solo travelers in their 30s

For over 30s solo travelers with energy to spare, join one of our group Active Adventure Tours where you can canoe, kayak, climb, or cycle to your heart's content! Our  Active Turkey!  trip includes a sea kayaking trip to the 'Sunken City' of Kekova, as well as swimming and snorkelling so you can truly get under the surface of this fascinating destination, or explore new heights by bike or raft on our scenic  Alpine Lakes of Slovenia  group trip. We also offer unforgettable trips for solo travelers over 30 that are ideal for keen walkers, trekkers or cyclists. Our Walking the Western US National Parks  trip includes the dramatic landscapes of the Grand Canyon and Yosemite National Park. Or perhaps you'd like to join our walking  Adventures in Patagonia , as we make our way through the unbelievably varied and beautiful terrain of Argentina and Chile, or hop on two wheels to  Cycle Sicily  with fellow cycling enthusiasts - we'll even provide your bike.

Popular tours for 30+ year old solos

Jordan discovery.

South Africa and Eswatini

Toubkal Climb

Amalfi Coast Walking - Agriturismo

Maldive Dhoni Cruise

Explore the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Why take a solo travel tour in your 30s with Explore?

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From big wows to hidden gems, our tours leave you feeling that you've really explored.

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Chosen for their great knowledge of your destination and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.

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Average groups of 11; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.

Responsible at heart

How we operate sets us apart; our flexible booking policy, our loyalty scheme & sustainable approach.

Other solo trip ideas

Solo tours for over 40s, solo tours for over 50s, solo tours for over 60s, solo adventure tours, solo walking trips, solo cycling tours, ready for your solo adventure.

Read more about our solo travel adventures

Top 10 trips for solo travelers

10 unusual places to visit as a solo traveller

First solo trip with Explore? Top 7 questions answered

Solo travel guide for women

Where to go? Our recommendations by month

7 questions answered for your first small-group adventure tour

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Boutique group adventures for solo travelers aged 30-49

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Why Flash Pack?

Don’t take our word for it. Here’s what Flashpackers have to say.

Likeminded people

We’re only for solo travellers in their 30s and 40s and we obsess over the group dynamic. All to ensure you make fast friends.

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Our adventures are made up of ‘can’t-do-by-yourself’ experiences and handpicked hotels.

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Memorial Day Getaways

With just a few spots remaining, browse our adventures running over Memorial Day to make the most of US public holidays and maximise your precious PTO. Need help choosing? Book a call today and we’ll do the rest.

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• Entertainment

I went on my first solo trip in my 30s: What I learnt which I wouldn't have in my 20s

Not everyone is lucky enough to be able to travel regularly in their 20s. While I don't consider myself the jealous type, I couldn't help but feel a tad envious when I had classmates or friends planning solo grad trips to Japan, Australia or Europe back in the day.

In fact, I never actually went overseas alone throughout this period in my life. I suppose I never had a yearning to do so. If there were no friends available, I would direct my finances elsewhere instead of scratching that travel bug.

As the social circle around me started settling down and getting married, I would only travel with my partner in recent years. Again, it never crossed my mind to travel alone.

That all changed this year. As a huge WWE fan, I was thrilled to learn that the wrestling promotion was holding a major Premium Live Event, just a five-hour plane ride away in Perth, Australia.

Ironically, I've been to Perth twice in the last three years with my girlfriend. Suffice it to say, she had no interest in going back there for a three-peat.

"You're on your own, bro," she joked. She would rather save her travel plans for elsewhere this time around, instead of entertaining my wrestling fandom.

Faced with the reality of embarking on my first solo trip, I decided to just #YOLO and dive right into the experience. Was I nervous? Sure. Did I regret it? Not! Here are five takeaways I had from my maiden voyage.

Comfort and convenience trumps being cheap

In your 20s, it was all about saving costs. Getting the cheapest accommodations, budget airline deals and sharing beds in your Airbnb are just some norms when you’re at that age.

In your 30s however, comfort and convenience become even more of a priority. Especially when you're travelling alone, the last thing you want to worry about is whether that sketchy motel you booked on a discount is safe to stay in.

It's worth paying the extra amount for privacy and security. Shoutout to Pan Pacific Perth for the hospitality! It was right at the heart of the city centre, within walking distance of all the dining and shopping amenities.

It's okay not to post your travel pictures on social media

Travel pictures are an easy way to spruce up your Instagram feed. While there's nothing wrong with posting your holiday content online, you're kind of missing the point of a vacation.

When you're dedicating an unhealthy amount of time to editing and uploading pictures on your phone, it defeats the purpose of a break. Instead, just enjoy the experience.

20-year-old me would have cared more about documenting every single thing on Instagram story or chasing likes for the clout. This time around, it felt so good to live in the moment, embracing the sights and sounds of a foreign country with my own eyes.

I was having so much fun at one point that I didn't feel the need to whip out my phone or use social media. It's a huge departure for me, which I'm proud of.

Embrace your alone time

Another example of growth on my part was feeling completely at ease with being alone during this trip.

Sure, it can be nerve-racking being by yourself in a foreign land with nothing but your wits to rely on. It also tests your ability to remain calm when navigating unknown situations or problem-solving. I had to trust my instincts and be confident when making decisions.

On the flip side, you don't have to accommodate other people's plans or stick to a schedule. You can do whatever you want, whenever you want.

Some people are energised in the presence of others and too much time alone leaves them a bit off-centre. Perhaps in the past, I was reliant on other people to uplift my mood or feel excited about our itineraries. Seeing as how this trip was purely in service of my fandom, I felt incredibly validated and at peace.

Appreciate the differences in culture

I don't know about you but I feel that a certain section of travellers just can't help comparing their own cultures with the country they're visiting, whether consciously or not. When you're overseas, you're bound to encounter differences in lifestyles or social norms.

While you might not agree with certain values or ways of living, you have to keep reminding yourself that you are a guest in another country and you should respect that.

Hence, I truly believe that travelling alone opens up your worldview and encourages you to be more tolerant and less judgmental of others. Perhaps if you're with your friends and family, it might be detrimental to developing such a mindset since you're surrounded by what's familiar.

Find out where the locals hang out

On my previous trip to Perth with my partner, we went on the typical tourist route, visiting such attractions as Rottnest Island, Perth Zoo and Swan Valley. While I certainly enjoyed the beautiful natural scenery and wildlife that the city offered, I wanted to take a different approach to my solo adventure.

Other than the actual WWE show at Optus Stadium, which was the main purpose of the trip, I had nothing else planned. I decided to go with the flow and explore the city centre, observing where the locals hang out.

One thing I noticed is that Australians have a pretty rich coffee culture. It's normal for them to wake up nice and early to queue outside their favourite cafes for their morning latte or pastries.

I also enjoyed visiting Coles, a supermarket chain native to the country and discovering the type of consumer products that make up a typical Australian's grocery list. Unfortunately, I haven't had a chance to try Vegemite yet!

When it comes to solo travel, it all boils down to learning to enjoy your own company. If you've never gone to a movie alone or dined in a restaurant alone before, it might be an uncomfortable experience. Especially in your 20s, you might prefer it to be a shared experience.

But as you grow older and more comfortable in your skin, it can be the best way to honour and reward yourself.

ALSO READ:  How to survive and thrive as a solo traveller

This  article  was first published in  Wonderwall.sg .

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20 of the best group trips for solo travellers

Striking out on your own needn’t be lonely or expensive. We round up group trips that increasingly cater for solo travellers and waive single premiums The highs and lows of travelling alone

Sailing and socialising in the Mediterranean

Med Sailors runs skippered sailing holidays for 20- to 35-year-olds, many of whom travel solo. Everyone shares a bunkbed cabin with someone else of the same gender; each yacht sleeps eight and travels in a flotilla of up to eight boats, so there is plenty of socialising. The yachts island-hop around Greece, Turkey, Croatia, or Italy (and the Caribbean too), making ports of call at villages and historic sights. Guests can try watersports, such as wakeboarding, join in the weekly regatta and enter a fancy dress contest on the last night. Each boat has large sunbathing decks, snorkelling gear and paddle boards. From £495 for seven nights half-board, flights extra, medsailors.com

Stripped-back safari in Southern Africa

EcoTraining runs year-long courses for professional safari guides – but it also offers week-long tasters for nature lovers who want to experience life in the bush. The Wilderness Trails Skills course for adventurous travellers is great value, offering a stripped-back safari at a fraction of the usual cost. The setting is the Makuleke Concession, a remote part of the Kruger national park in South Africa, or the Mashatu game reserve in Botswana; sightings may include lions, leopards, elephants and rhinos. Guests walk up to 10km a day, carrying their own supplies, and learn to track animals, navigate, set up camp, make fires and leave no trace. Nights are spent wild camping under the stars. From £458 for five nights for an all-inclusive course, flights and transfers extra, next departure 9 August, ecotraining.co.za

Camino de Santiago, Spain

Solo travellers planning a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in Spain won’t be short of company – 300,000 people completed the journey in 2017, an increase of nearly 200,000 in a decade. The Camino Francés is by far the most popular path, but the oldest route, the Camino Primitivo, is also good for lone pilgrims. The full 311km over the Cantabrian mountains is challenging, but the last 100km can be walked in a self-guided week with Camino Ways. Setting off from the walled town of Lugo, the first three days are spent following quiet Roman roads through forests and farmland. At lively Melide, the path merges with the Camino Francés, so the second half of the walk is more sociable. £440 for six nights including half-board and luggage transfers, April to October, caminoways.com

‘Poshtel’ stay, Barcelona

Hostels have always been a great places to meet fellow travellers – and these days, staying in one doesn’t have to mean roughing it. Casa Gracia , in a modernista mansion in Barcelona, is one of the new breed of poshtels. It has lots of stylish communal areas for hanging out and making friends, including a roof terrace; regular activities such as yoga, wine tasting and cooking classes; as well as events such as comedy nights and quizzes. Twice a week, there are tapas tours around the Gràcia district. Dorms sleep six, and there are single rooms for those who prefer not to share (from around £100). Dorm beds from £32 a night, hostelworld.com

Canyoning and hiking in Serbia

Much Better Adventures runs sociable and affordable long weekends to wild places in Europe and north Africa (plus a few lengthier trips further afield). This is a great option for time-poor travellers, filling one or two days off work with adventure. About 55% of customers are single, and there are lots of repeat bookings by people who struck up friendships on their first trip. One recently added options is a three-day canyoning and hiking trip to Serbia’s Valjevo mountains, with monastery visit and full-board riverside accommodation. From £2 30 for two nights full board, excluding flights to Belgrade, next departure 6 July, muchbetteradventures.com

Party on a Greece island

Friendship Travel takes over the Apollon hotel in Tsilivi on the island of Zante each summer, hosting house-party holidays for single guests. This year there are five new rooms, taking the total to 24, plus a new roof terrace. The hotel has a bar, restaurant and small pool; there is a sandy beach 100 metres away, and a water park within walking distance. Five three-course dinners with wine are included, and there are lots of local tavernas to try on the remaining nights. From £660 for seven nights including breakfast, some meals and flights, departures weekly (last departure 11 October), friendshiptravel.com

Brazilian road trip

Dragoman runs overland tours lasting from eight to an epic 211 days in purpose-built trucks across Africa, Asia and the Americas. Passengers tend to be a mix of ages and nationalities, with plenty of people travelling solo. One of the newest trips is a 17-day journey through Brazil from Salvador to Rio: highlights include hiking in the Chapada dos Veadeiros and Chapada Diamantina national parks, exploring the gold mines of Ouro Preto and touring Brasilia. Accommodation is 60% camping and 40% hotels and hostels. From £1,025 for 16 nights (plus £340 kitty) including board and most meals, excludes flights, next departure 6 November, dragoman.com

Tour of Sicily

In addition to its existing “no single supplement” holidays, this year Jules Verne has started solo group tours for single travellers . The nine destinations are France, Italy, Albania, Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, India, Botswana and Peru. There are themed trips and tours as well as holidays based in one place. Its Treasures of Sicily holiday has stays in Catania, Agrigento, Palermo and Taormina, plus visits to ancient Siracusa, coastal Cefalù (pictured), Mount Etna and the Valley of the Temples. One-week trip from £1,095, including B&B, flights, local travel and guides, next solo departure 1 November, vjv.com

Savings for cyclists, Belarus

Nearly 50% of people on Explore’s small group trips are solo travellers. Those who book by 2 July get their own room at no extra cost, saving up to £530. This is an annual special offer for bookings made between 1 June and 2 July – outside that period, solo travellers can share a twin room for no extra charge, or pay a single supplement. One unusual trip among more than 60 on offer is a exploration of Belarus by bike, taking in the capital, Minsk, Unesco-listed castles and a self-sufficient eco-village. Belarus trip from £599 for four nights including some meals and board, excludes flights, explore.co.uk

Yoga in Ibiza

Your average retreat offers a couple of classes a day and lots of downtime, but this action-packed week at the Cala Blanca beach resort, eastern Ibiza, has almost 200 yoga and fitness sessions to keep solo travellers extremely busy. Lots of guests attend on their own and there are initiatives to get everyone chatting, from sharing tables in the restaurant to conversation benches and even (cringe) hug spots. And Primal Beat , a new retreat just for men, starts this autumn (6-13 October). From £775 for seven nights all-inclusive (classes, food, shared room) but excluding flights. Three- to six-night breaks available from £365. Single occupancy extra (from £425). Next retreats 14-21 October and 14-21 April 2019, yogafitretreats.com

Swimming in Slovenia

Solo swimmers are very welcome on Strel’s swimming adventures – 40%-50% of participants are lone travellers. The swim tours take place in Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, Greece, Turkey and the US. The Slovenia Lakes and Rivers trip has a real variety of aquatic challenges, including swimming across Lake Bled, stopping for a breather on its island with its 17th-century church, going for a dip at the base of the Kozjak waterfall, swimming down the River Soča, and tackling the length of Lake Bohinj (4km). Swimmers stay in the four-star Hotel Jezero on the banks of Lake Bohinj. £510 for three nights including shared room B&B, excludes flights. Single occupancy an extra £61, strel-swimming.com

Family fun in Morocco

After finding that 16% of its family bookings were made by single parents, Intrepid Travel has this year started running adventurous trips specifically for solo parents and their children . There are six destinations so far: Costa Rica, Thailand, India, Egypt, Vietnam and Morocco. Its Morocco tour takes in Marrakech, Berber villages, the Altas mountains and an afternoon camel-trekking on a beach by the Atlantic. The company has also expanded its range of adult solo-only tours this year, adding Peru and Bali. Morocco trip from £336 for seven nights (kids from £297 ) including B&B and some meals, excludes flights. Next departure 28 July, intrepidtravel.com

Foodie weekend in Turin

Solos was founded in 1982, making it the UK’s first specialist holiday company for single travellers. Today it has five hotels exclusively for solo guests, and holidays from tennis breaks to ski trips. One of its city breaks is a foodie trip to Turin, Italy’s chocolate capital and the birthplace of the Slow Food movement. The itinerary includes a walking tour of the city, and chocolate-tasting and vermouth-making experiences. Other Solos city breaks with a food focus include Bilbao (for pinxtos) and Lisbon (custard tarts). Turin from £605 for three-night weekend including B&B plus one dinner and flights, solosholidays.co.uk

Painting and drawing in France

GoLearnTo has a huge range of holidays with no single supplements, including cooking, wellbeing, language, sport and creative pastime breaks. Its French painting holiday, based at a farmhouse with extensive gardens and two pools, is particularly good value, with at least 30 hours of tuition, pre-dinner champagne, all meals and a day on location at Penne d’Agenais, a medieval hilltop village. After lessons, guests can borrow bikes to cycle to the River Lot for wild swimming. From £820 for seven nights all-inclusive with shared room , next departure 8 September, golearnto.com

The Trans-Mongolian from Moscow to Beijing

Solo passengers are a common sight on long-distance trains such as the Trans-Mongolian. Lots of Russian, Mongolian and Chinese people take this route alone, as do western tourists – it is perfectly safe and a good way to meet fellow travellers. It also offers excellent value: from £492 for a 5,000-mile journey, with incredible scenery and a bed for six nights. The Man in Seat Sixty-One website is a great source of information for this and other long-distance rail journeys, such as London-Istanbul (four nights, from £241) or New York-San Francisco (three nights, from £140). Trans-Mongolian from £492 for six nights for a bunk in a four-berth sleeper

Climbing in Spain

Well over half of Bristol-based Rock and Sun’s customers are solo travellers. And Spain’s Costa Blanca is home to, in its words, “an endless amount of limestone”, offering a huge variety of rock climbing experiences for all levels of ability. Accommodation is in a spacious villa in the Jalon valley, handy for shops and restaurants. From £740 for seven nights including shared accommodation, some meals, coaching and transfers, rockandsun.com

Coastal walking, the Channel Islands

Ramblers Walking Holidays has a selection of trips with no single room supplement. Its week-long trip to Guernsey takes walkers to the island’s best stretches of rugged coast, along clifftop paths with fine views out to sea and historic sights ranging from second world war German-built fortifications to megalithic tombs over 4,000 years old. Inland, Guernsey is crisscrossed by quiet, picturesque footpaths and a there’s also a day trip to car-free Sark, a short ferry ride away. From £799 for seven nights including half-board accommodation, bus and boat fares, flights and transfers, ramblersholidays.co.uk

Hike, bike and kayak in Vietnam

The customers on trips with G Adventures are roughly 40% solo travellers, and its hike, bike and kayak Vietnam holiday keeps everybody active from the first day, when guests cycle from Ho Chi Minh City to the famous Cu Chi tunnels. After a flight north, there’s more cycling in the cities of Hue and Hoi An, plus trekking in the rural Mai Chau valley and an afternoon kayaking among the amazing limestone karsts of Halong Bay. From £841 for nine nights including all activities, entrances fees, one internal flight and some meals. International flights extra, gadventures.co.uk

Independent cycling in Lithuania

The website of the non-profit Lithuanian Cyclists Community has several independent cycling itineraries around the Baltic state. One of the most appealing is the Lithuanian Seaside Cycle Route . Its suggested itinerary can be followed independently, but for a little more support with accommodation and routes, try local operator Baltic Bike Travel . From €499 for seven nights including shared B&B accommodation (single room from €698), local transport and luggage transfers, bbtravel.lt

Learn to kitesurf in Morocco

Sitting right in the path of the north-easterly trade winds, breezy Essaouira, halfway down Morocco’s Atlantic coast, offers perfect kitesurfing conditions from April to September. Kite Worldwide offers a beginner’s package with guide, 12 hours of tuition, and launch and landing service. Participants should come away with a basic VDWS qualification. From £911 for seven nights including flights from Luton to Essaouira, B&B accommodation in a riad, all equipment and two dinners, kiteworldwide.com

Browse The Guardian’s selection of self-guided and escorted holidays designed for solo travellers on the Guardian Holidays website

• Travelling solo
• Group trips
• Learning holidays
• Adventure travel

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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.

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Like this Singles travel groups post? Why Not Pin It?

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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"head and shoulders above the rest", "not mass produced or touristy".

What I loved about this trip was that it didn’t feel mass produced and touristy. There was a sense of originality to it and uniqueness about the trip and the itinerary.

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“trip of a lifetime”, a bit about us.

MEET STEVE DILLON , FOUNDER OF OTHER WAY ROUND

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The 13 best solo cruises for 2024 (no supplement fare).

Set sail for a solo adventure at sea.

The Best Solo Cruises

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Relax by the pool, attend shows, dine with new friends and more on your next solo cruise.

Whether you're embarking on your first cruise alone or you've been on solo cruises before, single travelers will find more options than ever when it comes to cruising solo. Many cruise lines offer single staterooms with the same amenities as other cabins, at a price similar to what you'd pay with double occupancy fares. You'll also find special promotions where the single supplement fee is reduced or waived, making it more affordable to reserve a spacious stateroom or luxurious suite with even more amenities – including personalized butler service, an added perk of booking with many luxury lines .

If you're ready for a maritime adventure, an extended vacation or simply a quick getaway from home, these top cruise lines offer some of the best options for solo travelers on waterways around the world.

Lines with solo accommodations and waived fees

Norwegian cruise line.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Launched in 2010, Norwegian Epic was the first cruise ship in the industry to feature studio accommodations for solo travelers. Norwegian Cruise Line offers this category on nine of the 19 ships in its fleet, including the newest ship, Norwegian Viva. These cabins, at an average size of 100 square feet, are designed and priced with the solo traveler in mind. They have no single supplements – and studio rooms on board Norwegian Bliss even boast virtual windows.

Guests of the studios get access to the private Studio Lounge. In this exclusive space, you can socialize with other solo travelers and enjoy complimentary refreshments. There are also singles meetups throughout the voyage and plenty of fun-filled onboard activities to mingle with like-minded cruisers. Solo travelers can check out all the fun for singles on Norwegian Viva this winter on a cruise to the Caribbean , or in spring 2024 as the ship sets sail for the Mediterranean .

Book a Norwegian Cruise Line voyage on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

MSC Cruises

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers interior and balcony solo cabins for single cruisers on its Meraviglia-class ships: the MSC Meraviglia, Bellissima, Grandiosa, Virtuosa and the newest vessel in the fleet, MSC Euribia. The second-newest ship, MSC World Europa, has 28 cabins – 10 Studio Interior and 18 Studio Ocean View staterooms – designed specifically for solo travelers. MSC World America, set to debut in 2025, will also feature the solo studio staterooms.

During voyages with MSC Cruises , single cruisers are invited to a complimentary, hosted cocktail party to mix and mingle with other solo travelers. The daily program is also an excellent source to discover additional activities, entertainment and opportunities to meet other cruisers. You'll have onboard special events like the themed 70s-inspired Flower Party and the White Party, where the ship is decked out in festive white decor and guests don their best white attire. In addition, there are various sports tournaments, or you can show off your culinary expertise during a MasterChef competition.

MSC's Caribbean and Bahamas cruises departing from Miami and New York City feature an overnight visit to Ocean Cay, the line's private island and marine reserve. While there, singles can participate in fun-filled evening activities like a Champagne Sunset Cruise or a glow paddleboarding excursion in the lagoon, then attend the lively Luna Libre Party and the lighthouse show.

Find an MSC Cruises itinerary on GoToSea.

Holland America Line

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Holland America Line

Three of Holland America Line's newest ships each offer 12 solo cabins to accommodate single travelers: the Pinnacle-class Nieuw Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Konigsdam. These ocean view staterooms range in size from 127 to 172 square feet and feature the same amenities as the double occupancy cabins but with a double bed. The cruise line's Single Staterooms are priced for one person. If a guest chooses to book a different stateroom, single supplements for double occupancy cabins are as much as 100% over the standard fare, depending on the voyage and the cabin category.

Long committed to solo travelers, the line offers many activities where guests can meet other singles such as wine tastings, cocktail mixers, exercise classes, daily quizzes, sports challenges and more. If you're a solo traveler and a member of AARP, Holland America is now the exclusive cruise benefit provider to AARP's members. Solo cruisers will have access to an AARP member-only onboard credit that ranges from $50 to $200, depending on the itinerary and stateroom category.

For itineraries, Holland America's Alaska cruises and cruisetours are perfect for solo travelers, offering many opportunities to connect with fellow cruisers. Another favorite for singles is the line's fall voyages sailing from Boston to Québec City or Montreal.

Explore Holland America Line deals on GoToSea.

Royal Caribbean International

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International features studio staterooms on select ships that range in size from 101 to 199 square feet. These solo accommodations include interior rooms, virtual balcony staterooms and a super studio ocean view stateroom with a balcony. The cabins do not carry the single supplement fee singles encounter when booking other types of staterooms, making them an attractive option when traveling alone.

Once on board the ship, solo cruisers will have countless options to engage and socialize with other travelers. When it comes to dining with Royal Caribbean , make a reservation at the Japanese restaurant Teppanyaki for an entertaining meal with new friends, or join fellow foodies for the intimate Chef's Table experience (the dining venues vary by ship). Singles can also participate in onboard activities like trivia contests, drink seminars, escape rooms, dance classes and pool parties.

If you need more thrills to stay busy and to meet people, Royal Caribbean's ships feature world-class shows and entertainment alongside adrenaline-pumping rides and attractions. If you're sailing in the Caribbean, there are plenty of opportunities to meet and chat with other passengers at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Luxury line Atlas Ocean Voyages offers single cruisers 183 square feet of beautifully appointed space in solo accommodations that come without single supplement fees. These ocean view staterooms feature a queen bed, a panoramic picture window, a private spa bathroom with a rain shower and body jets, a stocked minifridge replenished daily with personal favorites, and other luxurious amenities. Single guests can also book other stateroom or suite categories with single supplements starting at 50% of the double occupancy price.

The line's three intimate yacht-style cruise ships – World Navigator, World Traveller and the new World Voyager, whose inaugural season begins in Antarctica in November 2023 – are all-inclusive . Meals at all the dining venues, premium beverages and wines, gratuities, culturally immersive excursions, and more are included in the fare. With fewer than 200 guests on board, there's an atmosphere of conviviality on these ships – especially when exploring remote destinations with like-minded and adventurous travelers during expeditions in Antarctica and the Arctic.

Read: The Top Cruises on Small Ships

Celebrity Cruises

Tim Aylen | Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises' new Edge-class ships offer some of the best options for solo cruisers. The line's two newest vessels, Celebrity Beyond and Celebrity Ascent (set to debut in late 2023), each boast 32 single staterooms with an Infinite Veranda. In addition, Celebrity Apex has 24 solo cabins, and Celebrity Edge features 16 staterooms for individual guests. These one-person accommodations offer a minimum of 131 square feet of space and the same upscale amenities you'll find in other category staterooms on their ships. Solo guests can look for special promotions where the single supplement is waived on select Celebrity voyages throughout the year.

Once on board the vessel, check out the daily program for activities conducive to meeting others – like wine tastings, cocktail-making classes and more. You'll also enjoy thrilling top-notch entertainment around the ship in The Theatre, The Club and Eden. A few popular cruises for singles are the line's Caribbean and Mexico itineraries on Celebrity Beyond.

Book a Celebrity Cruise on GoToSea.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The hip vibe on board the adults-only Virgin Voyages ships is ideal for solo cruisers looking to meet other travelers. Its superyacht-style ships – Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady – offer 40 interior cabins ranging in size from 105 to 177 square feet. There are also six Sea View staterooms with portholes boasting between 130 to 190 square feet of space. These Insider and Sea View cabins are designed and priced for single travelers, with amenities like high-tech mood lighting and roomy rain showers. The line also runs promotions where solo cruisers can book double occupancy staterooms without paying a single supplement.

Activities and festival-like entertainment around the ships foster fast friendships. Diners will enjoy the interactive experience at Gunbae, the lively Korean barbecue venue. The "grog walk" is a fun pub stroll where solo sailors can join fellow mates while sipping and snacking their way through all the signature bars. For even more fun, check out the evening shipwide events such as the themed Scarlet Party, which features live music and immersive experiences. The line also hosts meetups for singles throughout each voyage.

Read: The Top Adults-Only Cruises

Avalon Waterways

Courtesy of Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterways' river and small-ship cruises traverse waterways around the world, including in Europe, Asia, Africa and South America. The company waives the single supplement on a selection of staterooms, including its Panorama Suites, on select European and Asia departures. The company recommends booking early as the specially priced cabins do sell out. Solo travelers make up about 10% of the passengers on this river cruise line .

Avalon's fleet of Suite Ships operates in Europe and Southeast Asia and features cabins with a minimum of 172 square feet. About 80% of the staterooms are Panorama Suites, which have 200 feet of living space, beds with a view and the river cruise industry's only open-air balcony. With Avalon excursions, solo cruisers have opportunities to meet like-minded guests during immersive tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, yoga or fitness classes, biking or hiking trips, and more. Single guests can choose to dine at tables for just two people or ones that can accommodate up to eight passengers.

Read: Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Next Cruise

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AmaWaterways

Courtesy of AmaWaterways

Two single occupancy staterooms are available on four of AmaWaterways' river cruise ships: AmaDolce, AmaDante, AmaLyra and AmaCello. These accommodations do not have single supplement fees. Solo cruisers can also book staterooms with a 20% single supplement on select sailings in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that this pricing does not apply to certain stateroom categories and suites.)

With the friendly, small-ship atmosphere, solo cruisers will find it comfortable to socialize with other passengers and the crew. Onboard activities and immersive excursions also create opportunities for fostering friendships, especially among like-minded travelers. Excellent options for solo cruises include themed sailings centered around music and wine or the magical Christmas markets itineraries along the Danube, Rhone and Rhine rivers.

Explore AmaWaterways deals on GoToSea.

Lines with discounted supplement fares

Courtesy of Azamara

Azamara's special offers for solo travelers include reduced single supplements of 25% to 50% of the double occupancy rate on select sailings. The line's four midsized sister ships – carrying no more than 700 passengers – are mostly all-inclusive. Amenities included in the cruise fare include most meals; standard spirits, wines and beers; bottled water, soft drinks, and specialty teas and coffees; shuttle service in port; gratuities; and complimentary AzAmazing Evenings ashore or Destination Celebration experiences on the ship. Dining at the two specialty restaurants is an additional cost unless guests have accommodations in the Club World Owner's Suites, Club Ocean Suite or Club Continent Suite.

Single guests on Azamara cruises will find events during the sailing and venues around the ship where you can mix and mingle with other solo travelers and chat with the friendly crew. Intimate and culturally immersive excursions also create opportunities to meet passengers with similar interests. Azamara Onward, the latest ship, boasts the new Atlas Bar, a great spot to meet other travelers.

For itineraries, Azamara's signature "Country-Intensive Voyages" are a favorite of solo cruisers, including the 10- or 11-night Greece Intensive Voyage. For an extended sailing, check out the festive 12-night Carnival in Rio Voyage, which features a stop in Rio de Janeiro during the city's famed Carnival.

Compare Azamara cruises on GoToSea.

Cunard Line

Courtesy of Cunard Line

Cunard Line features dedicated solo staterooms on its three ships, priced at approximately 166% to 174% of the equivalent double occupancy cruise fare. Guests can choose between a spacious Britannia Inside or Britannia Oceanview cabin, or opt for a larger stateroom with a single supplement. For a little "me time" pampering while on board, solos will appreciate 24-hour room service, complimentary Penhaligon's toiletries and a chilled bottle of sparkling wine. Single guests will also be invited to get-togethers. You can either dine alone at venues around the ship such as the main dining room or choose to share a table with other passengers.

With an international mix of travelers, single cruisers will find many opportunities to meet and chat with others, especially during a Transatlantic Crossing. During the sailing, you'll find many enriching and relaxing activities that encourage socializing. According to Cunard , there's a sense of camaraderie and a passion around the voyage – and the unique travel experience of crossing the Atlantic Ocean.

Find a Cunard Line cruise on GoToSea.

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Luxury line Silversea Cruises offers 25% single supplements on various voyages throughout the year, including expedition cruises to destinations like the Galápagos Islands , Antarctica and the Arctic, and Greenland. The line's all-inclusive fares include luxurious ocean view suites, gourmet dining, complimentary wines and spirits, gratuities, onboard enrichment and entertainment, shore excursions, and more. Solo travelers will even have personalized butler service to indulge their every whim.

The line's fleet of a dozen intimate ships, carrying no more than 728 guests, offers a clubby atmosphere perfect for meeting solo and like-minded travelers. Single guests will also have the opportunity to engage with other solo passengers during a welcome reception with Champagne at the beginning of each voyage. Popular itineraries for Silversea's single cruisers include its Transoceanic journeys, a bucket list trip for many cruisers .

Explore Silversea Cruises deals on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn has special offers throughout the year where solo cruisers can take advantage of reduced pricing equal to double occupancy fares or discounts on the single supplement starting at 25% above the double occupancy fares. These rates are available on select voyages, including expedition cruises. Frequent solo cruisers and members of the luxury line's Seabourn Club Diamond Elite will also find reduced single supplements on Diamond Elite Single Supplement Sailings. In addition, club members receive invitations to exclusive events, where they can meet and mingle with fellow cruisers. Solo passengers are also invited to sit with the ship's officers, crew and entertainers at dinner – and there are hosted get-togethers for single travelers.

Solo cruisers will enjoy beautifully designed oceanfront suites and all-inclusive amenities on board Seabourn 's intimate ships. These perks include world-class dining; complimentary premium wine and spirits; a spa and wellness program in partnership with Dr. Andrew Weil; included gratuities; and the line's enrichment series, Seabourn Conversations. Single cruisers looking for an extended holiday will enjoy longer voyages on the line's newest purpose-built expedition ship, Seabourn Pursuit.

Compare Seabourn cruises on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has visited destinations around the globe on nearly every type of ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing ships and intimate river ships on the Mekong River. She used extensive research and experience as a solo cruiser to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

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• The Top Transatlantic Cruises
• The Top 3-Day Cruise Itineraries
• Solo Travel for Women: The Best Places and Tips
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

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Travel | Ed Perkins on Travel: Solo travel – difficult…

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Travel | ed perkins on travel: solo travel – difficult but improving.

Travel is geared mainly to serve customers as couples. But for a variety of reasons, lots of travelers are not in a coupled relationship. In my case, I’m a widower; others include the never married, the divorced or separated, and even couples with diverse interests. Over the years, the travel business has given short shrift to these travelers, but suppliers have recently taken a closer look at what they see as a big potential source of business.

For years, some tour operators and cruise lines have been positioning themselves as “singles travel” specialists, but mostly their approach has been to match up singles into couples. True solo travel is different—true solo travelers do not what to share accommodations with strangers or even with friends who they might want to consider. They want sole occupancy of whatever arrangement they make.

If you’re traveled at all, you’ve seen that a lot of pricing is based on “per person, double occupancy,” or PPDO:

Most modern hotel rooms are designed to accommodate at least two people with two single, double, or queen beds; hotels charge the same rate for either one or two occupants.

Similarly, the vast majority of cruise cabins are set up to accommodate up to four people – two comfortably in separate small beds, combinable into a double, and two more uncomfortably in pull-down bunk beds.

Railroads charge each traveler the same for basic rail fare, but for compartments on overnight trains such as Amtrak’s long-distance trains, the price is the same for one as for two.

Although not promoted as such, rental cars are de facto PPDO: Adding a second passenger (or more) adds nothing to the daily or weekly rent.

Even with the prevalence of PPDO pricing, solo travelers have reasonable options:

Hotels. Although most new or recent hotels are designed for couples, small, older hotels in Europe often have single rooms designed for just one occupant, as do small Japanese business hotels. Daily rates are usually substantially less than but more than half the double-room rates. On my recent trips, I’ve found comfortable single rooms at small family-owned hotels in Brussels, Grindelwald, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber, as well as in Japan. But most of the time, I have to settle for the usual double rate.

Tours. Despite a growing number of self-styled “Solo” tour operators, most fall back on the formula that “we’ll match you with a suitable roommate, and we won’t charge extra if we can’t find one.” But if you really want accommodations by yourself, you pay a single supplement. What may be close to everybody’s favorite tour operator, Road Scholar ( roadscholar.org/); formerly Elderhostel but open to travelers of any age) posts a pull-down options menu that includes “solo travelers only” filter. The choices are limited, but they’re genuinely for solo travelers. Google “solo travel” to find other outfits worth a look.

Cruise. For a long time, cruise lines ignored the solo traveler, relying instead on stiff single supplements for double cabins. But some of the newer liners feature cabins designed for one person. The good folks at Cruise Critic have compiled and posted a list ( cruisecritic.com/articles/which-ships-have-solo-cabins ) of cruise lines and cruise ships with true single cabins. Norwegian leads the pack in number of rooms and number of cabins per ships, but the other lines are catching up. Carnival, the biggest player, seems to be lagging the trend, but it does have a few on Cunard. Unfortunately, other than Cunard, no high-end lines yet make the list.

Trains. I don’t know any way to hack PPDO compartment prices on Amtrak, and Amtrak seldom puts them on sale. Sorry.

No Supplement Deals. Historically, tour operators and cruise lines have charged solo travelers the dreaded “single supplement” to occupy an accommodation designed for a couple. The supplement usually ranges from 50 percent more to double the PPDO rate. They’ve catered to solo travelers mainly through occasional “no single supplement” promotions, often for departures they believe are not likely to sell out – which means the best deals are last-minute deals. You can still find those.

(Send e-mail to Ed Perkins at [email protected]. Also, check out Ed’s new rail travel website at www.rail-guru.com.)

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We Asked Flight Attendants to Reveal the Shoes They Wear on Long Travel Days — Here, 11 Comfy Picks From $30

The travel professionals have spoken.

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Travel + Leisure

This morning I hoofed it from the Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park down to my new hotel, NH Collection New York Madison Avenue . I dropped off my luggage, then I walked west to the Neil Simon Theatre to pick up my tickets for MJ The Musical before strolling east on 42nd Street to get to Summit One Vanderbilt where I enjoyed a bird’s eye view of the Big Apple (where I’ll probably log another 10,000 steps before noon tomorrow). Still, I wasn’t worried about my feet. I treat them to flight attendant-approved footwear . 

Why are flight attendants the next best thing to podiatrists in my book? They’re on their feet all day. Yesterday, I flew Qantas’ 16-hour flight from Auckland to JFK. I never saw any of the flight attendants sitting or even leaning against the lavatory. They were always standing or walking, and more importantly, doing it with gusto. Their secret? It isn’t Red Bull (I’ve guzzled gallons and have never grown a single feather let alone wings). It’s their shoes. 

Unfortunately, or fortunately, airlines don’t give flight attendants footwear with their uniforms. Instead, flight attendants have to use trial and error to find the comfiest, cutest shoes that adhere to their airlines’ dress codes. But thanks to word-of-mouth — flight attendants love to share best practices — they usually succeed. The result? Walking a mile in their shoes isn’t painful, it’s actually pleasant. I recently polled several flight attendants to see which pair(s) they wear for travel, both for work and leisure, and below are the results.

Hoka Bondi 8 Sneakers

“They feel like walking on a yoga mat,” Favian Flores, a flight attendant for United, told me. He packs these APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association)-approved shoes because “consolidation is key” and he likes being able to wear them for sightseeing as well as for workouts. His bonus tip? “Opt for a white or off-white color to match all your outfits.” On Zappos, they come in 23 colors and have more than 2,700 five-star ratings. “I noticed many nurses wearing Hoka,” wrote one shopper who spent two weeks visiting her mom. “My feet had been hurting, so I gave them a try…and loved them. Just returned from a two-week vacation, walking much more than normal, and my feet feel great.” 

NAOT Footwear Women's Argus Sneaker

Meanwhile, Katie Storck, a Southwest flight attendant for more than a decade, told me not even a pair of Louboutins can get between her and her favorite sneakers. “They’re easy and quick to remove as well as being super comfortable for walking through airports and breathable to keep on your feet for long flights.” Despite the lace-up look, they’re slip-on and the knit fabric means they’re slightly stretchy, which comes in handy when your feet swell. The removable footbed “molds to the shape” of your foot, and the padded cups keep your heels from hurting. While they’re relatively new and only have one rating (albeit five stars) so far, NAOT has been in business since 1942.

Dansko Women's Professional Clog Slip-on

Jennifer Vincenzo McLucas’ mom didn’t retire from her flight attendant career until she was 76. These shoes were one of the reasons she lasted so long. “Her crewmates would be cranking about their aching feet, and she — at often twice their age — would be tootling right along.” Dansko’s “anti-fatigue rocker bottom” helps with stability, and the reinforced toe box is great for durability. Currently, they come in dozens of colors and styles. I had a fun felt confetti back in college and wore them all over New York City where I went to school. More than 70 percent of this clog’s ratings are perfect five-star ratings with most coming from professionals who work on their feet. “These shoes served me well in medical school,” said one shopper . “When I’m traveling, I have noticed that I prefer to wear these rather than tennis shoes. On the airplane, my feet swell and I constantly have to fiddle with my shoelaces to readjust. These shoes are great during security screening, fast to take off, fast to put on.” 

Franco Sarto Women's Bocca Slip-on Loafer

After 35 years of service, Delta flight attendant Hermann Ortiz can confidently say that rubber soles are the way to go. And Ortiz loves a slip-on. This particular pair of Italian-designed loafers for women features a reasonable 1-inch heel, a rounded toe, and 100 percent leather. It’s available in 11 colors and has nearly 3,000 five-star ratings. “I’ve been a flight attendant for over 20 years and these are the only shoes that don’t kill my feet after working 14-plus-hour nights on the plane,” wrote a flight attendant . 

ECCO Men's New Jersey Slip-on Loafer

Personally, Ortiz sports these slip-on ECCO loafers. “My flights are long haul, usually between 9 to 17 hours, so comfort is important,” he told me. They’re made with full-grain leather, the heel is 1.25 inches, and they have Ortiz’s favorite: rubber soles. Many of the more than 2,000 five-star ratings come from professionals who work on their feet all day. “These got me through three trade shows over three weekends in a row,” recalled one satisfied shopper who says they’re their “go-to” shoes for traveling because, in addition to being comfortable, “they look classy enough to wear with a suit, or to dress down with a pair of jeans.” 

Clarks Men's Whiddon Step Loafer

When it comes to dress shoes, Flores doesn’t sugarcoat it. “They can often be uncomfortable,” he admitted before telling me that he prefers Clarks when he’s working. “They are affordable, durable, and the slip-on design without laces makes them incredibly convenient for traveling.” Available in four colors, they all feature Clarks’ removable signature OrthoLite footbed which minimizes shock impact and wicks away moisture. They have more than 1,000 five-star ratings including this five-star review by another flight attendant who wears them daily praising their “ perfect fit .” 

Soda Top Shoes Jaber Ankle Boot 

When it came to choosing a career, Allison Uno chose to follow in her flight attendant mom’s footsteps. She’s been servicing Hawaiian Airlines travelers for nearly 20 years now, and she has lots of opinions when it comes to footwear. When she wears pants while traveling, she prefers a pair of boots like these faux leather ankle boots with a nice chunky heel. They’re surprisingly lightweight for being so sturdy and having a 2.5-inch heel. Choose from nine colors, and know that because they’re slip-on, they’re perfect for going through TSA. Many of the 2,300 five-star ratings refer to a short break-in period, and they’re overwhelmingly positive. “Day two: I got 20,000 steps and could have kept going,” reads a review titled “ Cute and durable .” 

Dream Pairs Women's Chunky Heel Knee-high and Up Boots

In the winter, you’ll find Storck rocking this look. “The chunk heel makes them comfortable for long days of work and travel,” she told me before confessing that she also wears them off the job. This particular pair has a 2.5-inch heel and features a soft, faux-fur lining and insole. The zipper makes them easy to put on and take off. They’re currently available in seven colors, and more than a few of the nearly 3,500 five-star ratings come from flight attendants. “Comfortable and classy,” described one flight attendant who appreciates all the compliments they get on these shoes. “These really are a dream pair of boots,” they said. 

LifeStride Women's Rozz Mary Jane Pumps

Come summertime, Storck is usually sporting these best-selling (they have more than 3,600 five-star ratings) Mary Jane pumps from LifeStride. “The block heels help increase the surface area your foot is applying pressure to and makes them comfortable enough to be on your feet for hours,” she explained to me. By far her favorite heels, they feature a 2-inch heel, faux leather upper, rounded toe, and adjustable buckle strap. Plus, they come in both medium and wide widths in three colors. “I can wear these for a three-day trip at work and not have pain or foot fatigue like so many other shoes,” wrote one flight attendant who says they’re also her favorite after trying “literally dozens and dozens of different kinds of shoes.” 

Clarks Women's Emslie Lulin Pump

When Uno wears her uniform, which includes a knee-length skirt, she opts for these practical 100-percent Mary Jane pumps. They’re made of leather and include Clarks’ signature “impact-absorbing OrthoLite footbed.” With a 2.16-inch heel, they make your legs look longer and give you added height, but they’re not so tall you risk twisting your ankle. Many of their 1,100 five-star ratings come from flight attendants. “Love these,” wrote a flight attendant in training , who said, “Now everyone from my class has ordered a pair, too.”

Rockport Women's Total Motion 75mm Pointed-toe Pumps

Siobhan Grogan, a flight attendant for JetBlue, has tried her fair share of Clarks and Naturalizers (two brands beloved by flight attendants) before ending on this 3-inch pair of heels which she told me “hit spot on.” More specifically, she said, “I have high arches, and I can walk through airports in these shoes and on the aircraft all day, sometimes 12 hours, and these heels are the best” On Amazon, they come in 20 different colors and materials including leather, suede, and faux snakeskin. Many of the 530 five-star ratings praise the removable padded insole. “It’s like walking in my slippers,” summed up one flight attendant who describes themself as a “self-proclaimed full-time fashionista.” 

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