Twelve years ago, I started Valise with the solo traveler in mind. At that time, all of our curated trips were small group trips, but not necessarily groups of people who knew each other. My goal was to connect solo travelers to each other and to explore the world together.
Since that time, interest in solo travel, both with small groups and completely independent solo journeys, has exploded. Hotels and tour companies around the world have noticed, and are now offering special rates and itineraries geared to solo travelers. Many tour providers have dropped or discounted Single Supplements, making solo travel more affordable.
There are many drivers to the growth in popularity of solo travel. Technology is one factor. Traveling alone is safer than ever, thanks to online destination and transportation information, widespread cellphone coverage, and location-sharing tools. It’s also much easier to find social activities online or on apps — such as group food tours, group sailing experiences and group museum visits. Travel apps such as Viatour offer safe and interesting group options worldwide.
The pandemic taught us about physical and emotional self-care. As a result, many solo travelers are making health and well being a travel priority. Bookings are up at solo traveler friendly wellbeing destinations such as Body Holiday, St. Lucia and The Retreat, Costa Rica. During the holidays, many solo travelers are now opting to swap pressure-filled family holiday gatherings for a solo escape.
Read on to discover destinations and experiences designed specifically for the independent solo traveler.
Namibia: A Solo Traveler’s Paradise
The Weinberg, Windhoek
The Weinberg Windhoek perfectly blends city life with serene African charm, making it an ideal spot for solo travelers. This elegant 43-room hotel pairs old-world style with modern luxury and boasts five restaurants, the Life Day Spa, and a beautiful courtyard. After a day of exploring Windhoek’s cultural highlights, unwind at the Sky Lounge, where panoramic views and a glass of fine wine set the stage for a perfect evening.
The Strand, Swakopmund
In the coastal town of Swakopmund, The Strand Hotel offers solo travelers a mix of adventure and relaxation. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on three sides, this oceanfront retreat features sea-facing rooms, three distinct dining venues, and terraces perfect for taking in stunning coastal views. Stroll along the beach, savor fresh seafood at Ocean Cellar, and enjoy the breathtaking Atlantic scenery.
Etosha Mountain Lodge
For solo travelers craving peace and wildlife encounters, Etosha Mountain Lodge is an unforgettable retreat. Situated in a private reserve near Etosha National Park, the lodge offers panoramic landscapes, day and night game drives, and guided rhino tracking. With only nine chalets, this intimate lodge allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and unique wildlife of Namibia.
Sailin’ Solo With Aqua Expeditions
If you are looking for a solo adventure in some of the world’s most remote and exotic destinations, you are in luck.
Aqua Expeditions is hoping some solo travelers will come aboard by offering a Solo Traveler Special, where single supplement fees are waived or discounted on select departures for Aqua Nera, Aqua Blu, Aqua Mekong, and Aria Amazon in 2024 and 2025.
Since launching in 2007, unprecedented acclaim has followed the ships’ trailblazing style and bespoke guest experience, featuring an exclusive one-to-one level of service and world-class cuisine by renowned chefs. Now is the time to take that sailing adventure you’ve been dreaming of.
Departures with Solo Traveler Specials
- Aqua Nera and Aria Amazon: Experience the Amazon’s lush beauty with January, February, and September departures in 2025.
- Aqua Blu: Discover the Indonesian Archipelago with 7-night sailings in October and November 2025.
- Aqua Mekong: Cruise through the cultural tapestry of the Mekong with April, August, and September departures in 2025.
Rejuvenate and Refresh: Wellness Retreat in St. Lucia
Sometimes, the perfect vacation is all about pampering. At BodyHoliday in St. Lucia, your stay is designed to revitalize and restore, combining breathtaking natural surroundings with luxurious wellness experiences.
BodyHoliday in St. Lucia is an idyllic destination for solo travelers seeking a rejuvenating getaway, balancing wellness, adventure, and social connection. Nestled on a pristine Caribbean beachfront, the resort offers a uniquely designed experience that encourages personal renewal and growth within a warm, welcoming environment.
Tailored Activities and Connections
Each day at BodyHoliday brings a diverse array of classes and activities, perfect for meeting fellow travelers or enjoying time solo. With over 40 daily activities—from beachfront yoga and Pilates to scuba diving and paddleboarding—solo guests can craft their own wellness journey or join group sessions that foster a sense of community. For the more adventurous, activities like windsurfing, sailing, and mountain biking are offered, allowing guests to dive into exciting new experiences.
Personalized Wellness and Pampering
The resort’s award-winning Wellness Center is a haven for relaxation, featuring bespoke spa treatments, soothing massages, and personalized wellness plans to address individual needs. Therapists are highly skilled in a wide range of holistic therapies, from Ayurvedic practices to hydrotherapy, allowing solo travelers to enjoy quiet, revitalizing moments in an inspiring setting.
StolenTime Program
The StolenTime program, designed with solo travelers in mind, provides unique wellness workshops and social events tailored to help guests connect with themselves and others. From solo traveler cocktail mixers to workshops on mindfulness and self-care, BodyHoliday creates opportunities for meaningful experiences and connections, making it a prime destination for solo travelers seeking both personal and shared moments of joy.
Solo Adventure in East Africa’s Spice Islands and the Seychelles
Solo travelers looking to discover the allure of East Africa’s islands and the breathtaking Seychelles will find a remarkable experience aboard A&K’s Luxury Expedition Cruise. Set sail on an immersive journey that begins in the enchanting island of Zanzibar, Tanzania, and continues through some of the Indian Ocean’s most idyllic destinations. With excursions tailored for intimate exploration, guests can explore the UNESCO-listed ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani, the vibrant marine life of the Seychelles, and the spectacular biodiversity of the legendary Aldabra Atoll.
Designed for solo adventurers, this all-inclusive voyage accommodates a maximum of 148 guests, ensuring a personalized, community-oriented experience on a luxurious, all-balcony vessel. The journey is guided by A&K’s renowned Expedition Team, who bring each destination to life with expert insights and exciting, carefully curated excursions. Embrace a voyage that combines cultural richness, natural wonders, and the opportunity to connect with like-minded travelers, creating an unforgettable solo adventure filled with elegance and discovery.
Are you a solo traveler but don’t want to be completely by yourself on your journey? See below for two new Small Group Journeys for 2025. Join as a solo, but experience the world with like-minded travelers! Space is limited.
May 9 – 16, 2025
3rd Annual House & Garden Trip with British Architectural Historian, Oliver Gerrish. A stellar itinerary to the breathtaking coastline of Norfolk, England. The trip will include private visits to notable historic properties and gardens, wandering through quaint coastal villages, and many other bespoke experiences in the area. The group size is limited to 8 people, ensuring an intimate and personal tour.
July 20 – 27, 2025
Northern Spain With Island Creek CEO, Chris Sherman. Discover the wines, culture and cuisine of the Basque Country
Although this trip includes a single Supplement, if you book before January 1, 2025, take 15% off of the Supplement.
Highlights Include:
A private Guggenheim tour, Immersion in coastal landscapes, Exclusive visits with winemakers, Walk the San Martín market, Cooking class featuring traditional Basque dishes, Visit local conservas with Chris, Gastronomy at Les Halles de Biarritz, Cider house experience, Experiences in both Spanish and French Basque Country
Coming in September, 2025 – Provence: The Art of Living
A privately guided journey through the markets, gardens, vineyards & villages of Provence.
Contact Valise for more information