Sun, sea, solitude... surge in tourists holidaying alone in search of ‘me time’

THE number of people holidaying solo has risen sharply, a poll suggested yesterday.

It found that 15 per cent of adults had travelled alone over the past 12 months, compared with 12 per cent the year before and only 6 per cent in 2011.

Having the opportunity to do what you want was the single biggest reason for solo holidays. The desire for ‘me time’ was also a key factor for the 2,000 people in the survey for the Association of British Travel Agents.

Others said the rise of smartphones and travel apps had made navigating the world alone less daunting.

Mark Tanzer, ABTA’s chief executive, said: ‘There has been significant growth in the number of people travelling by themselves over the last few years, with the majority choosing to holiday solo so they can do what they want.

‘Going on holiday by yourself means you don’t have to compromise on your choice of destination, your itinerary or the activities you take part in. Whether they’re single or just want some “me time”, people now have an incredible choice of holidays and destinations to choose from and it has become so much easier to explore the world.

‘Travel companies have responded by offering a diverse range of options for people booking by themselves.’

Asia was a more popular destination for solo travellers than for those who had company. Thailand and Vietnam proved the biggest draws.

Only a third of lone holidaymakers were hoping to make friends and the growth in popularity of solo travel was most noticeable among 35 to 44-year-olds.