Traveling Solo Brings Wonders of the World
It’s going to be a banner year for travel, according to a new survey of American consumers. That upswing includes people who will be traveling on their own.
Travel Leaders Group polled more than 3,500 people, and 96 percent indicated that they intend to take a trip for vacation in 2019, with 76 percent planning at least two or more leisure trips. And 36 percent say that their travels, at least in part, will involve solo trips.
Solo travel isn’t a one-size-fits-all option, and travel advisors work with clients to tailor a trip that meets their needs. According to the survey, 40 percent of solo travelers want to travel and explore independently, while 25 percent prefer to be part of an organized group journey. Thirty-five percent enjoy participating in one or more guided tours.
The top five U.S. destinations for solo travelers in 2019 are Florida, California, Hawaii, New York and Alaska. The top five international destinations are Western Europe, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom/Ireland, Eastern Europe and Australia.
Each of those destinations offers opportunities for solo travelers no matter what their style.
Travelers who want to explore on their own, and love urban spaces, will find lots of interesting neighborhoods in cities like New York, London and San Francisco. New York’s artsy Greenwich Village, San Francisco’s Italian North Beach and London’s trendy Notting Hill are just a few examples of popular places where you can browse in shops or relax in a café like a local.
Solo travelers who love to explore a culture through its cuisine, Italy is, obviously, a great place to indulge in everything from gelato to pasta to wine. But there are other destinations that many might not think about for a wine trip, like Australia. The country has more than 60 designated wine regions and almost every city there has an annual festival, like the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, March 8-24, with more than 200 events.
Art-loving solo travelers can admire the masterpieces in Western Europe’s museums at their own pace. This year’s highlights include an exhibit on designer Christian Dior, opening in February at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum. In Paris, the Louvre, home of the Mona Lisa, will pay tribute to Leonardo da Vinci on the 500th anniversary of his death, beginning in October.
For solo travelers who love the outdoors, plan a hiking trip in a national park, like Yosemite, in northern California. It’s easier than you think to find your own little spot to commune with nature. When you don’t want to be on your own, national parks offer lots of activities, such as photography walks and strolls with a naturalist.
If you’re a solo traveler who wants the comfort and camaraderie of a group journey, cruises are a good option, whether it’s the sunny Caribbean or breathtaking Alaska. In addition to voyages geared toward singles, some cruise ships have studios that are designed and priced for solo travelers.
