Solo Female Travel

Today, solo female travel is one of the fastest growing areas in the travel industry, particularly amongst women over 55. There are many reasons for this shift. Women now enjoy more financial independence, giving us the freedom to design trips that reflect our own passions and interests. At the same time, the appetite for experiential and travel with purpose 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, hiking in Switzerland, 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 offering women only tours that feature female guides and drivers as well as the participants.  With many women choosing to marry and have children later in life (or not at all), there are more years where travelling independently is appealing.

For widows or divorcees, or those who have always travelled as part of a couple, the initial idea of travelling 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 in committed partnerships, but choose to take separate holidays. And why not? If one half of a couple loves adventure travel, while the other dreams of quiet beaches and a good book, it makes perfect sense.

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.

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 right across the globe. 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 personal Travel Counsellor, and as someone who has experienced solo travel first hand, I take the time to truly understand what you want from your journey, i then create an 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.