Ever entertained the idea of a solo holiday? Sure, it might not be everyone’s idea of the perfect getaway, but ABTA’s Holiday Habits report reveals a definite shift in the solo direction – one in six people (15%) are now choosing to go on holiday by themselves which is up from 12% in 2023 and 6% in the preceding year.
Once generally considered unacceptable for women and uncommon for men, modern society has evolved to embrace a diverse range of individual lifestyles and personal choices. Furthermore, the pandemic prompted many to reevaluate their priorities, inspiring both aspiring and avid leisure travellers to pursue their dreams without the need for a partner or travel companion(s).
Solo tourism has become a symbol of independence, whether it’s a local escape or an international adventure. It empowers individuals, especially women, to explore new places and enjoy different experiences unhindered by concerns of social judgment. “The surge in solo travel reflects a broader shift in how people approach their leisure time and personal growth,” says Samantha Pillay, Director of First Loyalty Plus.
“In an increasingly connected world that allows little time for uninterrupted relaxation, escaping from it all on your own allows you to disconnect and recharge. For many, going it alone isn’t a compromise – it’s a preferred choice that aligns with their lifestyle and aspirations,” she adds.
While there are several great benefits to travelling solo, Pillay shares her top five:
1. No compromising:Holidaying alone is incredibly liberating, enabling you to do what you want to do when you want to do it. You don’t have to compromise on your destination, itinerary or activities, and there’s no debating about where to go next or how much time to spend there. Fancy spending hours in an art gallery or veering off to explore a quaint street? You call the shots and can focus on what you enjoy.
2. Guilt-free time out: Relaxation and time away from a demanding daily routine to simply unwind and rejuvenate is essential. Solo holidays mean there’s less pressure to be on the go all the time. If you want to rest and spend the day at the pool or the beach, there’s nobody else to consider or to persuade you otherwise.
3. See more for less: Blowing your budget on activities that don’t float your boat will frustrate you. Spending money only on what you truly want to see and do, rather than tagging along with others, will result in you being able to experience more by avoiding wasteful expenditure. If fancy restaurants aren’t your thing, but a picnic in a beautiful park is, then do that. Tick items off your own wander list!
4. Personal growth: Solo travel is a life-changing experience that helps you discover who you truly are. By stepping out of your comfort zone, you gain a rare opportunity for self-reflection and become more accustomed to doing things on your own. When plans go awry, handling challenges independently also enhances your problem-solving skills, resilience and self-confidence.
5. Make new friends: One of the best things about travelling solo is how easy it can be to make new friends. Solo travellers often join group tours or local events and being on your own makes it easier to bond over a shared experience. You’ll find yourself meeting new people and forging meaningful connections that might have been missed otherwise.
And being a member of first loyalty PLUS makes enjoying a solo break even easier. With discounts at over 500,000 hotels and resorts worldwide plus a choice of 160 luxury cruise ships to set sail on, you’ll find endless options for an adventure. Plus, enjoy a host of local benefits like dining, spa treatments, movies, and a plethora of experiences.
Pillay concludes, “If you’ve been considering a solo trip, there’s no time like the present to take the leap. With social media constantly showcasing the experiences of others, disconnecting and immersing yourself in your own adventure can be incredibly refreshing. Embrace the opportunity to travel alone and discover a new side of yourself.”
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