Fly solo: why more women are going on holiday alone

A growing number of women are choosing solo holidays, leaving loved ones behind to "explore on their own terms," group tour operators report.

- NEIL LANCEFIELD

Holiday companies note a significant surge in demand from individuals - particularly women - travelling without family or friends, driven by a desire not to wait for "dates or holiday dreams" to align.

Popular destinations for these independent travellers range from Spain and Portugal to far-flung locales such as Egypt, India, and Uzbekistan.

Tour operator Jules Verne reveals solo travellers now comprise 46 per cent of its 2024 bookings, a rise from 40 per cent in 2023.

Women represent nearly seven out of 10 (69 per cent) of those customers.

Jules Verne managing director Debbie O’Neill insisted people’s reason for booking on their own “isn’t always about being alone” but “choosing how you want to experience the world”.

Speaking on the eve of UK travel trade organisation Abta’s annual convention in Majorca, Spain, she said: “Many of our travellers have families, partners and full social lives — but they also value the freedom to explore on their own terms.