Group Trips For The Solo Traveller
Independent travel has never been more popular and the benefits are plain for all to see: you’re free to decide exactly where you want to go, what to do and how fast you want to do it.
Travelling singly by necessity or choice can also be a great way of meeting like-minded souls, but a number of tour operators now offer holidays for singles that also want to share their travel experiences.
Whether it's over land or sea, sharing a spa retreat or bonding through tough outdoor challenges, here are a few tips on how to go it alone in a group.
Action and adventure
One of the best ways to get stuck into a group holiday if you've come on your own is to try an activity break. This could be something with a specific focus, such as a week-long climbing holiday in Sardinia or cycling through the Morzine region of France.
There are also plenty of female-only active breaks if you prefer. The good thing about this kind of trip is you will have an instant-shared interest with others in the party, whether it's something you're already in love with or you just fancy learning a new skill.
Similarly, more varied adventure trips, which involve trekking long distances, communal camping and survival skills can be a great bonding experience. The most popular options for these are naturally where you'll find the breathtaking scenery: tours currently run everywhere from America's Grand Canyon, to Machu Pichu in Peru, to an epic journey up Mount Kilimanjaro.
Relax in the company of others
Of course, not all travellers find camping in the wilderness a relaxing getaway but fortunately there are other options of the more chilled-out kind.
Spa retreats are surprisingly good meeting places for fellow singles, though there are plenty of opportunities for quality time alone as well.
Yoga breaks are ideal for finding those with shared interests without the hectic pace of mountaineering treks; try rural Greece, southern Turkey or go spiritual at an Indian ashram.
The latter tends to place more emphasis on meditation but if you research a few locations, you can find some great-value stays and a genuinely convivial atmosphere.
Cruise ships have also become much more solo friendly in recent years, with some newer ships upping the single cabins on offer and installing communal lounges. The set-up is usually relaxed enough to be able meet other people at dinner and during on-board activities.
General tips
Single travellers can make up around half of the customers for tour companies these days, so you'll often find the dreaded single supplement is waived and special departure dates are arranged for those going it alone.
Sightseeing tours are also worth checking out, but be wary about those which offer a 'highlights' package – you may end up spending more time on the coach and various hotels rooms than seeing the sights.
With nearly twice as many people in the UK living alone than there were 50 years ago, it makes sense that group holidaying for singles has become more affordable and appropriate in recent years.
For those looking for the best of independent travel with some company thrown in, group holidays might just be the compromise you're after.
FemaleFirst @FemaleFirst_UK
Tagged in Travel travel tips