Solo Female Travel - Not Just for Backpackers
I confess, that’s the image I used to have too. In fact, I’m thinking of an aunt of mine, a true adventurer who once travelled with the Masai tribe in Africa, worked on dive boats in the Red Sea, drove trucks in America, backpacked in Australia and even lived in an Indonesian jungle. Her postcards were treasures to me and definitely fuelled my imagination and love of travel.
But while that picture still holds true for some, it’s far from the whole story.
Today, solo female travel is one of the fastest growing areas in the industry, particularly among women over 55. There are many reasons for this shift. Women now enjoy more financial independence, giving them the freedom to design trips that reflect their own passions and interests. At the same time, the appetite for experiential and purposeful travel continues to grow. We’re seeing increasing demand for wellness retreats, from yoga and spa escapes to fitness and health focused getaways. Activity based holidays are thriving too; painting in Provence, cooking in Tuscany, horse riding in Spain, photography workshops in Morocco, or a wine tasting river cruise in Portugal.
There’s also greater confidence in safety and security when travelling alone. Many tour operators now cater specifically for solo travellers, with some even offering women only tours that feature female guides and drivers. For some women, solo travel becomes part of life’s natural rhythm. With many choosing to marry and have children later (or not at all), there are more years where travelling independently is appealing. For widows or those who have always travelled as part of a couple, the idea of setting off alone can feel daunting, which is why options such as small group tours or cruises can be so reassuring. They allow travellers to dip into companionship as much, or as little, as they like. Cruises in particular are excellent, with many waiving single supplements and hosting welcome evenings to help solo travellers connect.
Many lifelong friendships have been born this way, a shared walking tour here, a glass of wine on deck there, often lead to future trips together. Interestingly, another growing group is women who are very much partnered but choose to take separate holidays. And why not? If one half of a couple loves scuba diving and motorbiking while the other dreams of quiet beaches and a good book, it makes perfect sense (mum and dad I’m looking at you here!). I’ve done my fair share of solo trips and can personally vouch for the joy of waking up and deciding the day entirely on your own terms. No compromises, no negotiations, the world truly becomes your oyster.
And of course, let’s not forget the many women who dedicate much of their lives to caring for others, children, grandchildren, elderly parents or loved ones with special needs. Taking time out to replenish your own energy isn’t a luxury, it’s essential. Just as airlines remind us to fit our own oxygen mask before helping others, investing in your wellbeing allows you to continue giving with energy and joy. I’ve seen growing demand in my own work for women booking milestone birthday trips, post-divorce getaways or simply much needed “me time” holidays. It’s one of the most rewarding parts of my job, watching someone return refreshed, confident and renewed after a carefully planned journey.
Most importantly, solo travel today is no longer synonymous with basic backpacking. From luxury cruises and elegant boutique hotels to private tours and five-star wellness retreats, there are a wealth of premium and indulgent options to choose from. Whether you prefer your own space or enjoy connecting with like-minded travellers, the choice is yours.
And this is where working with me can make all the difference. As your Travel Counsellor, I take the time to truly understand what you want from your journey, then curate a bespoke experience that is as unique as you are. I sift through the countless options, handle every detail and ensure everything runs seamlessly. You’ll also have the reassurance of my support throughout your trip, together with access to our 24/7 Duty Office should you ever need it.
Solo travel is empowering, liberating and deeply rewarding. With the right planning, it can also be effortlessly smooth and wonderfully indulgent. If you’ve ever dreamed of your own solo adventure, whether bold and adventurous or calm and restorative, I’d love to help you bring it to life.
