GOING IT ALONE
Solo travel has never been more popular – and these are the spots you need to hit first.
Anyone who’s ever slipped a dog-eared copy of Eat Pray Love from a communal hotel bookshelf knows that solo travel has the power to transform. While travelling can make or break a relationship with a mate or partner, going it alone is an opportunity to, well, figure out your relationship with yourself.
Solo travel grew almost 10 per cent from 2013 to 2015, while searches related to it increased by 40 per cent. And in news that probably won’t shock – we’re an adventurous bunch, after all – Australian women are helping lead the charge, with two-thirds of us booking a trip without a plus one. The chance to see the world without the glare of someone else’s opinions, to eat breakfast and lunch and dinner on your own meandering timetable, to spend the day holed up in your hotel, or hiking or, honestly, doing whatever damn well pleases you most at that very moment – that’s what solo travel gives you. Complete, uninhibited freedom.
While the world is, of course, your oyster when it comes to heading out alone, some places are simpler, nicer and safer to be without a companion than others. Here are our favourites.
WHY: Once overshadowed by its neighbours (Greece, Italy, Spain and France), Malta is now considered an It-destination in its own right. The small island nation is as friendly as they come – in fact, if you thought the Greeks and Italians knew how to feed you, wait until you get to this place. Most people speak English fluently (it’s the second-biggest language here), making it easy to get around, and crime rates are relatively low.
WHEN: During summer (June to August), when the average temp hovers between 27 and 35°C.
WHERE: Hotel Juliani (hoteljuliani.com) is nestled on Spinola Bay in St Julian’s, one of Malta’s most spectacular spots. And the boutique hotel truly makes you feel as if you’re on holiday. Each room evokes the stunning coastline with its colour palette of blue, white and grey, instantly putting you at ease.
MUST-TRY: Limuncell, the Maltese version of the Italian limoncello (there’s also bajtra, a liqueur made of prickly pear).
DON’T MISS: A winery tour. Again, while its fancy neighbours are rightly renowned for their wines, Malta has missed out on the accolades – until now. With a burgeoning wine scene and a range of international and local grapes, a winery tour – with a few souvenirs to boot – is a must.
WHY: Ranked number one on the Global Peace Index, Iceland’s capital is extremely safe. The centre of the city is flat, wide and easily walkable, and the place itself is experiencing a boom after the opening of Harpa Hall in 2011, a stunning concert space that has transformed the landscape.
WHEN: If you want to see the Northern Lights, February, March, September and October are best, but always check the aurora forecast before you go.
WHERE: Hotel Borg (keahotels.is/en), an historic Art-deco landmark in the heart of the city. Treat yourself to a suite with views overlooking the Austurvöllur, a large public park, and head up to the state-of-the-art spa for a signature facial.
MUST-TRY: A hot dog. Yep, really. Iceland’s favourite street food is the humble frank-in-a-bun, and we’re here for it. Made of organic, free-range lamb and served on a warm bun with raw onions, fried onions, tomato sauce, a sweet brown mustard called pylsusinnep and remoulade (a mix of mayo, capers, mustard and herbs), they are, by all accounts, incredibly addictive.
DON’T MISS: The aforementioned Northern Lights. This stunning force of nature makes it appear as if light itself is dancing on the night sky, in dazzling colours of green, purple, pink, red and blue. While you can see the lights in Reykjavik, consider a trip out of town to the Westfjords for a better view.