Best trips for solo women
Sarah Marshall explores safe holidays for lone females
All too often, people miss out on holidays because they can’t find a travel partner. But in the past few years, women in particular are refusing to wait around any longer. “We’re seeing a strong rise in the appetite for female solo travel,” says Tim Hentschel, of HotelPlanner. Safety is a primary concern for most women venturing out alone – especially first-timers. He recommends researching destinations thoroughly. “Ensure you are well informed on local customs, laws, cultural norms and safety record. It goes without saying that it’s not advisable to visit a destination which has a record for violence against female travellers.” Staying connected with friends and family is also important. It’s also advisable to share an itinerary. In terms of enjoyment, one of the best ways to explore a new destination ‘alone’ is on an escorted tour. “Travelling solo for the first time can be daunting,” admits Colum McLornan, of Friendship Travel. “Join an organised group trip where you will be accompanied by other solo travellers.” Here’s a few trips worth a look...
MOROCCAN ODYSSEY
Holiday company Intrepid say half their bookings are from solo travellers, and nearly 70% are women. The company offers a series of small group tours for women only, led by female tour guides, including the eight-day Morocco: Women’s Expedition. Dine with families in remote homes, see how an artist co-op is empowering female rug-weavers in small villages, and hike through the M’goun Valley over four days with the region’s first local female guide. From £787pp, including transport, accommodation and activities. Visit Intrepid.
EMBARK ON A PILGRIMAGE
Walking the Camino de Santiago in Spain is as much about the people you meet as the places you visit. Hike the last 100km of the Camino Frances from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela, passing through rural Galicia and ending at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. This well way-marked route attracts many other pilgrims, making it an ideal option for a solo independent traveller. A six-night break costs from £645pp, including B&B accommodation and daily baggage transfer. Flights extra. Visit Macs Adventure.
TAKE A RIVER CRUISE
Uniworld, who carry an average 120 guests on their vessels, have waived solo supplements on 17 of their itineraries for 2024. Their Brilliant Bordeaux seven-night allinclusive trip includes a visit to Château Malromé to explore the life of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Médoc oyster tasting, a bike ride among the Médoc vineyards, a walk and winetasting at the hilltop town of Saint-Émilion, and a farmers’ market tour in Libourne. From £2,899pp, including transfers and flights. Visit Uniworld.
GO ON SAFARI
Experience two of Africa’s best safari regions, Botswana’s Okavango Delta and Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park, while supporting female empowerment projects. In between game drives, learn about a female guide programme spearheaded by African Bush Camps. Enjoy drinks around the campfire, spa treatments, and the comfort of knowing your stay will contribute directly to the local area. An eightnight, all-inclusive trip costs from £6,600 per person. Visit Mahlatini.