travel for singles in their 40s

Best Tour Companies for Singles

Book your next adventure with one of these options.

Ligaya Malones is an editor, blogger, and freelance writer specializing in food and travel. Ligaya's work has appeared in publications including Lonely Planet and BRIDES.

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A recent study showed that the solo travel industry is projected to experience a significant influx in the upcoming years. Whether you want to experience a solo adventure, see the world at your own convenience, or hope to meet new people along the way, there’s always something worthwhile about traveling by yourself. 

Luckily, there are plenty of travel companies that cater to solo travelers to make planning stress-free. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best companies for every budget and travel preference to support your wanderlust—including our top picks for women-only and solo parent travel.

8 Best Tour Companies for Singles of 2024

• Best Experience: Exodus Travels
• Best for Ages 35-50: El Camino Travel
• Best Sustainable: G Adventures
• Best for True Solo Travel: Black Tomato
• Best for Ages 25-39: For The Love of Travel
• Best for 50+: Overseas Adventure Travel Rates
• Best Female: Wild Women Expeditions
• Best for Solo Parent Travel: Intrepid Travel

Best Experience : Exodus Travels

Courtesy of Exodus Travels

Traveling solo on an Exodus Travels group trip means access to self-guided and guided excursions around the world for every type of traveler. Choose a walking wine holiday in Portugal or explore Egypt via cruise boat and sleeper train, for example. Additionally, its Exodus Edits collection offers shorter itineraries of up to five days and is geared towards travelers in their 30s and 40s—though they’re ideal for anyone looking for more vigorous activity such as ziplining and surfing in Costa Rica or sampling street eats and beach hopping in Sicily. 

There is no single supplement fee when you room with a fellow traveler, and chances are you may end up with your own room anyway. Booking a travel itinerary with UK-based Exodus Travels includes a full refund should the company need to cancel your trip and a complimentary trip transfer to another tour or different person up to 21 days before the scheduled trip. Plus, travelers who book their third or more trips with Exodus receive a 5 percent discount on their next booking.

What’s more, the company works to curate trips that align with a number of United Nations sustainable development goals including goals for responsible consumption and production, empowering local communities, and climate action considerations. Exodus Travels (founded in 1974) was awarded Best Operator in National Geographic Traveller’s sixth annual Reader Awards in 2021.

Best for Ages 35-50 : El Camino Travel

Courtesy of Encounter Travel

According to El Camino Travel ’s founder, Katalina Mayorga, elder millennials are their strongest customer base. That means if you were born between 1980 and 1985 approximately, you’ll find yourself among curious, like-minded solo travelers looking to immerse themselves in destinations like Trinidad and Tobago, Colombia, and the Eastern European nation of Georgia. Some trips even add a professional photographer to capture shareable shots so you can remain in the moment.

All of El Camino’s guided, small group trips max out at 12 participants. They’re also curated with an ethos of preserving and protecting local culture, the environment, and communities. For example, some of their partners include the Environmental Research Institute Charlotteville in Tobago and La Sierra Artist Residency in Santa Marta, Colombia.

Best Sustainable : G Adventures

Courtesy of Intrepid Travel

G Adventures is particularly known for its sustainable, responsible ethos. The company works with small, locally-owned hotels and operators to ensure your travel dollars benefit the community you’re visiting; outlines policies around child and animal welfare practices; aims to reduce single-use plastics, and works to ensure experiences taking place in Indigenous communities align with community goals.

Founded in 1990, G Adventures specializes in small group adventure tours to a host of destinations from Asia to South America and Africa to the Arctic. Nearly half of the travelers on every trip are flying solo, and there’s no single supplement if you choose to bunk with a same-sex roommate. Or, select your own room for a fee. 

A Chief Experience Officer leads each group tour and itineraries are searchable by travel style. For example, find wellness-centric trips like nine days of daily yoga, visits to Hindu temples, and partake in traditional healing ceremonies in Bali. Or travel with their partner, National Geographic, for an exclusive guided tour of South Africa’s Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and a visit to Soweto township in Johannesburg, the home of Nelson Mandela. 

G Adventures partnered with hostel booking service Hostelworld in 2021 to launch its Roamies itineraries. Its combination of backpacking and organized travel itineraries includes countries like Albania, Mexico, the Netherlands, and Vietnam. The trips are marketed to 18- to 35-year-olds, though like-minded individuals keen on budget travel and communal environments may enjoy these trips, too.

Best for True Solo Travel : Black Tomato

Courtesy of G Adventures

Black Tomato specializes in bespoke luxury travel experiences. For those interested in traversing around the world solo and willing to pay a premium for tailored itineraries, its adventurous or culturally immersive experiences may just be your ticket.

Your travels might look like hiking and biking in Patagonia, embarking on a spiritual pilgrimage through Bhutan and India, chasing glaciers and geysers in Iceland, or learning to cook Georgia and Armenia’s local dishes or Japan’s regional cuisine.

In 2017, Black Tomato launched its Get Lost adventure travel experience. With the support of a dedicated team, and without prior knowledge of where they're headed, Get Lost participants will find their way home from an undisclosed location. The location is selected based on a pre-travel questionnaire about which environment clients would like to immerse themselves in. Then, they show up at the airport and the adventure begins.

Best for Ages 25-39 : For The Love of Travel

Courtesy of Contiki

With 80 percent of individuals traveling with For The Love of Travel jet -setting solo, each trip is packed with opportunities to meet fellow Millennial and Gen Z travel enthusiasts. For example, within your small “crew” of up to 14 people, make new friends doing snow sports and unwinding in saunas in Lapland or devouring tacos and sipping mezcal in Mexico City. Trips range from four to nine days, including weekends in Colorado’s Rocky Mountain wilderness or an extended weekend in Costa Rica where you’ll hike through rainforests, relax in hammocks, and hike, bike, or surf.

According to company feedback, the average FTLOT traveler is 30 years old and interested in meeting new people while traveling . The company bills itself as a mid-range travel company, where “​​we might stay in a more basic hotel for a couple of nights so we can include a Michelin-worthy meal and a private catamaran ride.” 

In 2022, FTLOT plans to offer at least 10 new itineraries including to Belize, Turkey, and Spain’s Basque Country. And for those with the flexibility, the company launched Sojrn in 2021 featuring month-long, themed stays in destinations like Cape Town—focused on biodiversity—and a fashion-oriented stay in Paris.

FTLOT requires an initial deposit and allows installment payments if not paid in full.

Best for 50+ : Overseas Adventure Travel Rates

Courtesy Flash Pack

Overseas Adventure Travel is primarily aimed at American travelers aged 50 and over. It offers guided itineraries to worldwide destinations, including Africa, Antarctica, Asia, and the South Pacific, with trips ranked by activity level and accompanied by a list of physical requirements to help select an itinerary that is best suited for you. For example, their Japan and South Korea itinerary advise that participants be able to carry their own luggage as the selected hotels do not have porter service.

Some of Overseas Adventure Travel’s most popular trips include 17 days of wending the Adriatic from Croatia to Bosnia and Herzegovina (think a walking tour in Dubrovnik, sampling traditional Bosnian food in Sarajevo, and exploring the countryside near Zagreb). On another popular trip, you spend 15 days traveling through Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, ending in Helsinki, Finland. All trips offer pre-and post-itinerary extensions, and either waive the single supplement entirely or offer a discount on a private room.

The company offers a free Roommate Matching Program which helps you find a like-minded, same-sex roommate. If they can’t find a match, your single supplement is deducted. Small group sizes typically average 13 travelers.

Overseas Adventure Travel won the Solo Travel Award for Best Tour in 2017 and 2018, thanks in large part to its policy of offering a limited number of single spaces for each itinerary.

Best Female : Wild Women Expeditions

Courtesy of Overseas Adventure Travel

It began as an all-women, Canada-based canoe tripping company in 1991, and Wild Women Expeditions is perfect for boundary-pushing women who want to travel independently and enjoy the safety and support of an organized tour. The company also prioritizes hiring female tour leaders and on-the-ground guides. It offers outdoor adventures for women of all ages and identities and with a range of physical abilities (“whether your greatest skill is tracking a storm or talking up a storm, summiting mountains or summoning courage, keeping your kayak in line or coloring outside the lines,” as the company describes).

The company travels to 31 destinations around the world like Egypt, Tanzania, and the Azores islands. Itineraries are typically adventure-based and are filtered on their website by activity, with options ranging from sailing to cycling and horse riding. Imagine yourself sea kayaking and snorkeling in the Galapagos or scaling glaciers in Alaska. 

Most guests are solo travelers and there’s no single supplement to worry about as accommodation is typically in a shared room or cabin. Though if privacy is a priority, you can usually snag your own room for a nominal extra fee. Group sizes are kept small and social with between six and 14 women, depending on the itinerary you choose. The average group size is eight. 

Wild Women Expeditions also takes care to curate trips that avoid or minimize the disturbance of wildlife; supports environmental education and advocacy projects; and partners with social justice and women’s rights organizations.

Want to take a look at some other options? See our guide to the best women-only adventure travel companies .

Best for Solo Parent Travel : Intrepid Travel

Courtesy of Wild Women Expeditions

Intrepid ’s family-themed holidays welcome adults traveling with children, including solo parents looking to travel with their kids without the stress of planning and coordinating a trip. Since each family’s travel needs and preferences are different, every itinerary includes an “essential trip information” section where Intrepid outlines whether the trip would be a good fit for you and your kids, as well as a physical rating from least to more strenuous activities. 

For example, an itinerary through part of the Amazon Jungle in Peru advises the jungle can be very hot and humid, and that the weather can be unpredictable in the Andes. On the other hand, an 11-day trip to Borneo island in Southeast Asia lists a minimum age of 5 and outlines a range of accommodations from hotels to guesthouses and jungle camps; on a few occasions, travel times between destinations range between four to five hours. Trips to Costa Rica, Tanzania, China, and Morocco are also listed.

Individuals under 17 years typically receive a 10 percent discount, and the company requires that adults have at least one child under 18 years traveling with them. As part of Intrepid’s commitment to responsible travel, itineraries support initiatives surrounding sustainability and conservation, climate education, and preservation of Indigenous culture.  

Mathieu Young / Getty Images

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33 Best holiday ideas for singles over 40 in 2023

Are you single and in your 40s? Are your friends all in relationships or with small kids and not available or keen to travel?

Don’t let that stop you from that dream trip, we’re here to help you with holiday ideas for travelers like you, single and over 40. 

• 1 Traveling solo after 40 
• 2 How to plan your holiday as a single traveler
• 3 Best group trips for singles over 40
• 4 Best vacation spots for singles over 40
• 5 Conclusion

Traveling solo after 40 

While age is just a number, there are some things that also evolve with time.

With age usually comes financial freedom, maturity and the hardship of getting over jetlag, I know that all too well! 

While you are still young (very young, if I may add), traveling in your 40s is not the same as traveling in your 20s or 30s.

You are most likely not looking to party it out all night long, sleeping at the beach or hitchhiking to save a few pennies, you are also not necessarily up to make a fool of yourself, or at least not all the time. 

Your taste is more refined, your interests wider and your purse thicker.

You are also most likely looking for deeper experiences that enrich your life, teach you something new or maybe provide a break from the daily busy life and less about partying all night long. You know what you want from life, and travel is it.

On the flip side, with age also comes confidence, and lack of patience.

You no longer need other people’s approval and you also don’t need a travel companion to go places.

You do your groceries alone, you live alone, you dine alone and you lead a fulfilling life all by yourself, you are your best travel companion and you are ready to continue living life to the fullest. 

Because your friends may be married and with kids, they can no longer afford, time-wise and financially, to travel as much as you, so you are keen to find a new tribe of like minded travelers who are also single and over 40 and who share your passion for discovering the world and have minimal family responsibilities. 

If all of the above resonates with you, you’ve come to the right place. And let me add, going on a singles holiday does not necessarily mean that you are looking for love (though you may still find it), but that you are looking to be surrounded by people like you or at a destination that is specifically catered to singles or which is just perfect for this moment in your life, solo or with newfound friends.

More and more Gen Xers are leading the return to travel , especially independently and solo and a lot of the women joining our women-only tours are in their 40s and either single or divorced, they are not letting the lack of travel companions stop them from traveling, they are treating themselves to a fabulous trip with other travelers like them. 

Find your perfect holiday for singles over 40 in this article and book that trip of a lifetime, you deserve it.

How to plan your holiday as a single traveler

Planning a trip can be complicated and confusing but before we jump right into choosing the right trip, it’s important to take a few minutes to think about what you can do and what you are trying to get out of it.

• What is your budget?
• Do you want to travel solo independently or join a group?
• What type of trip are you looking for? A more adventurous, a relaxing one, a culturally-focused one, or perhaps a foodie trip with lots of gastronomic experiences and maybe some wine tastings too?

A budget is usually the starting point when planning vacation at any age. It will help you set the tone for the type of trip you’ll have, the duration and help you weed out some options, such as the kind of tours available to you.

If you have a budget for the holiday, keep that in mind when going through the rest of this section to filter ideas and suggestions. If you don’t have a budget and are trying to save, check out some of our tips on how to save money for travel .

Travel style

The next decision is your travel style. Are you more of a solo traveler who prefers to travel independently or would you like to join a group tour where everything is planned for you and you can meet other travelers?

We are passionate advocates of solo travel and our Solo Female Travelers Facebook Group is the place to get help, support and advice for your first or your next solo trip at any age. A large percentage of our members are in their 40s and looking to go on a trip so you are sure to find yourself among your tribe. Go on, ask that question!

On the other hand, a lot of single travelers prefer to join group tours so that they can more easily meet others and reduce some of the burden of planning a trip by letting someone else do it for them. Traveling on your own means you need to do all the planning and this can require a lot of hours researching which not everyone enjoys.

Many of the guests on our small women-only tours for solo travelers like to book with us because of the convenience of knowing we put together trips that include the type of experiences they enjoy and where they meet like minded women, without having to spend hours finding the best activities, restaurants and local places.

In the next section, we will look at companies like ours that specialise in solo trips and have an age threshold.

Type of trip

Now that you know your budget and travel style, it’s time to narrow down your options a bit more by looking at the kind of trip you feel like going on.

There are many types of holidays for singles over 40 and if you asked 10 people you would most likely get 10 different answers, from a wellness retreat to an active holiday, a beach vacation, a city break and anything in between, if you can dream it, it is possible. 

In fact, we did ask our members and got more than 100 suggestions each different and unique. 

What’s your personality like? What is the purpose of your vacation? What are your interests? How much time do you have? What do you feel like? What do you want to get out of it>

Don’t let the fact that you are single stop you from choosing the vacation you most want, you can go party or to a festival alone or you can go to traditional honeymoon destinations like the Maldives or Bora Bora if that is what you fancy, we’ve done it and we don’t regret it. 

Like an inspirational quote we love says:

“They called it loneliness, she knew it was freedom” – F.E. Marie

Here are some types of trips for singles over 40 to consider, the sky’s the limit:

• Active travel: This is for adventure seekers or for those who want to challenge themselves. Want to hike Kilimanjaro ? Don’t let the lack of a travel companion stop you from doing it!
• Luxury travel: A luxury trip is the ultimate in self pampering and is a great opportunity to let someone else take care of you, be it with a margarita by the poolside, a specially customized menu or a private guide and driver to take you where your heart desires.
• Sailing: A sailing trip is a great and efficient way to cover many destinations in just a few days and have an all inclusive experience on board. Cruises often offer great holiday packages for singles over 40 and are awesome places to meet fellow single travelers and have a blast onboard and onshore. 
• Wellness retreat : While we tend to associate wellness retreats with luxury trips, the two are not necessarily the same. Some retreats can be very affordable and provide a more rustic back to basics experience which does not make them any less appealing. There is a wide range of wellness retreats, from silent retreats to yoga retreats, detox holidays and everything in between. While these are not necessarily singles-only experiences, it is true that they tend to attract solo travelers more than couples and so you may find yourself surrounded by people like you.
• Gastronomic travel : We are big fans of traveling for food and wine and will do it anytime. There are many parts of the world where this kind of trip is becoming more and more popular and destinations where enjoying culinary experiences is more commonplace such as Italy , Spain or France. For example, our Tuscany trip has a heavy gastronomic component weaved into other cultural activities. 

What is it that you are looking for in your vacation as a single? Think about it as you move through the rest of the article.

Best group trips for singles over 40

Small group trips are an excellent choice for single travelers over 40s.

They offer a great way to enjoy travel in a setting where meeting others is easier and the fact that there is a predefined itinerary means you know what you’ll get to see and do without having to spend hours planning it. 

Additionally, you won’t need to worry about tours or activities needing a minimum number of guests, places charging you more because you are on your own or restaurants refusing service because it’s just you (yep, that is regularly reported by members of our online community ).

Where to start looking for the right travel groups for singles over 40? 

In the list below.

Women-only tours

Perhaps one of the most fun ways to travel is with like minded women with whom you can gossip, share a drink, have a laugh or simply identify with. The camaraderie and good vibes are endless.

Solo Female Travelers Tours

We curate our own intimate group tours specifically for solo female travelers and take our guests beyond the tourist hot spots to experience the local culture with a group of like minded women. 

We specifically focus on destinations where it’s usually too expensive or difficult to travel as a female alone, or where we know a group makes for a more fun experience. 

If you come solo, we pair you up with another woman so that no-one has to pay a single supplement and can cut out that extra cost. If you wish to, you can also upgrade to a single room.

Women from many different ages come to our tours, but the most popular age range is that of women in their 40s, many of whom are divorced or have never been married and can’t be bothered to wait for anyone else to go on that trip of a lifetime. 

You can view all our upcoming trips on our tours page . We have many travel styles included in our trips, some focus on wellness and luxury, while others are full of adventure and wildlife. 

Read : The 25 best women-only tour companies .

Group trips for solo women over 40

Traveling solo but in a group guarantees a memorable trip and is a fun and convenient way to travel.

All the planning, itineraries and accommodations are all set up so you don’t have to worry about anything and focus on having an amazing holiday. 

Solos Holidays

With more than 40 years of experience, UK-based Solos Holidays is a tour company that offers especially crafted holidays designed for single and solo travelers. 

They focus on creating sociable experiences where one can travel independently, but with the convenience of traveling in a group and having a tour leader. 

Solos Holidays have tour destinations across the world in Europe, America, Australia, Asia, The Caribbean and Africa. They have a mix of ages in their tours, but the majority of guests are above 40 years old. 

In order to appeal to a wider range of travelers, they have many holiday types with specific activities that match almost any interest.

There are group tours for the active which include activities such as hiking, cycling, water sports, yoga, golf, whale watching. They also have ClubSolos which is an exclusive tour in luxurious accommodation.

Exodus Travels has their own section of solo holidays for travelers in their 30s and 40s called Exodus Edits . 

Their tours are unique experiences such as cycling in Croatia or hiking in Morocco, that guarantee you’ll have the best time and share memorable moments with like-minded people in whatever activity level you choose: leisurely, moderate or challenging. Compare the tours and find the one that matches your interests.

Have a detox of the ordinary and make the most of your singles vacation going to a bucket list trip like Pyramids and Pharaohs in Egypt, Cabernet and Capers in South Africa or Street food and Sunshine in Sicily. 

Rick Steves

Rick Steves is an American expert in European travel and has a best seller guidebook series, a travel column, a TV show and a radio show.

His company offers tours throughout Europe and focuses on fun, affordable and culturally broadening trips. There are tours with a large group size, while others limit to small groups. His travel groups were recommended by members of our Facebook group.  

Some of their top sellers tours are Heart of Italy, Best of Paris and Best of Ireland. 

Insight Vacations

Insight Vacations is a tour company that curates premium small group trips. Their mission is to make you travel in style, in trips that are fancier than most tour companies and offer high-end accommodation, fine dining, and unique experiences. 

They offer unusual and fascinating experiences in many of their tours like Twirling on the dance floor in Vienna, savoring Egyptian sun bread in a local village and learning about Oyster farms in Croatia. Groups are usually small but go as high as 40 members.

Their top destinations are Croatia, Switzerland and Italy. Don’t miss their special savings and discounts exclusively for solo travelers.

Wellness retreats for women over 40

Feeling like you need to recharge?

Disconnect to reconnect with yourself in an amazing retreat holiday, an ideal holiday for singles over 40 looking for an enriching experience, balance and relaxation. 

Take a break from the ordinary and embark on a wellness adventure, the destinations to choose from are plenty!

We recommend these companies to book your next retreat holiday.

Tripaneer is a travel booking marketplace and they have their own retreat platform called BookYogaRetreats . 

In this site, you’ll be able to find yoga retreats, holidays and courses in destinations all over the world including The Americas and Caribbean, Asia, Oceania, Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

Tripaneer has a wide array of retreat options, the main ones being yoga retreats , detox retreats and meditation retreats . 

If you need a reset and want to enjoy a wellness trip, check out these uniquely crafted retreats like a 6 Day Solo Traveler Package Holiday in Mexico or an 8 Day Deluxe Massage, Surf, Hike and Yoga Holiday in Portugal.

Tripaneer is a well trusted travel company which will connect you with the best of local culture in any destination, so you can have an unforgettable and enriching holiday. 

Fivelements in Bali

Fivelements Retreat Bali is an eco-conscious wellness retreat located on the banks of the Ayung River in Bali.

This is a place where you can encounter authentic Balinese Healing, plant-based cuisine and sacred arts. 

A great holiday destination for singles over 40, Fivelements offers a mix of healing cultures with innovative wellness concepts.

You can choose from different types of experiences like a personalized private wellness retreat, a wellness day, detox programs with plant-based cuisine, culinary experiences, etc. 

The accommodation options are nothing but luxury! Stay in stunning riverfront or hillside suites with pools and gardens. If you want something out of the ordinary, set off for a relaxing holiday in this wellness sanctuary, rooted in the Balinese culture.  

Chiva Som in Thailand

“A beautiful sanctuary where enrichment thrives and lives change”.

Recommended by our group members, Chiva Som is a place with a holistic approach to wellness, with two resorts located in Thailand and Qatar. 

The brand offers carefully curated retreat experiences, which include daily activities and treatments, for every kind of interest and health concerns.

You can search for your ideal retreat experience based on your goals, which can be relaxation, emotional and mental balance, detox, beauty, physical fitness, among others. 

If you’re looking forward to embarking on a journey that benefits your health and life, choose a retreat holiday in Chiva Som. Some of their most popular experiences are Art of Detox, Natural Renewal, Senior Wellness and Cranial Relief.  

BodyHoliday

BodyHoliday is a luxury wellness resort located in the Caribbean island of Saint Lucia.

With a stunning beach, luxurious rooms and delicious cuisine, this spa resort focuses on well being and providing a pleasing holiday to every guest.

A fab thing about them is that a daily spa treatment is included with your room rate, so it’s the perfect holiday to let go, relax and recharge your mind. 

Each of their retreats is fully inclusive of luxury accommodation (with no single supplement), food and beverage, as well as all the activities related to the retreat you’ve chosen.

There’s a wide range of things to experience at the BodyHoliday, so if you wish to do something in your free time, take a yoga class or learn how to do Tai Chi all is possible.

You can choose from many exercise or wellness activities and the good news is the majority are included!

Our group member Lucy shared her review: “I have just had a week at The BodyHoliday St. Lucia. It is my first venture into holidaying alone and they make it very easy. There are activities from 7 am until 5 pm. Treatments included daily and communal tables if you want to make friends or have someone to chat about your day! A fabulous first venture into solo travel in my 40s”.

Escape to Shape

Feel like doing a full-on fitness trip to Lake Como, Italy?

Escape to Shape specializes in curating high-end wellness experiences that include luxury, sustainability, fitness and relaxation. 

Erica and Francesco, the company’s owners, put a lot of effort in planning and hosting each trip, with the ultimate goal of making sure travelers immerse in the local culture, have a positive impact on the local economy and make new friendships. 

All the trips have small groups which enjoy an enriching holiday and return home feeling refreshed and recharged. Additionally, you will travel sustainably and have contact with local guides and stay in environmentally friendly accommodations. 

If you’re feeling like you need a holiday escape, set off on one of their most popular tours like Markets, Magic & Mountains in Morocco, Multi Sport Adventure in Slovenia and A Journey Through Rajasthan in India. 

Retreat in the Pines

Retreat in the Pines has been hosting women retreats since 2004 in the beautiful piney woods of East Texas and the majority of their guests are solo travelers in their 40s and over. 

Their retreats include a variety of activities like yoga, meditation, hiking, wellness workshops, cooking classes, massages and more in small groups of 10-12 women, so the experience is personal and you get to meet like minded women and form connections and friendships. 

What we love about this company is that they are a female owned business and are committed to creating an ethical and environmentally aware retreat center. As they state on their website, “You are accepted as your authentic self – there’s no need for fancy yoga clothes and you don’t need to touch your toes”. 

So, if you’re longing for a solo holiday that involves community, attend one of their retreats, in which you’ll find healing, inspiration and connection. Retreat in the Pines has a very welcoming atmosphere, where every woman is supported and encouraged, without any judgement.

Fit & Fly

Editor’s note : Fit & Fly doesn’t currently offer any trips.

A company founded by attorney and travel writer Rebecca, Fit & Fly  creates fitness, wellness and cultural retreats in fascinating destinations. They empower women to take special care of themselves and make meaningful connections with other women. 

If you want to try an active vacation where you workout and relax at the same time, this is the travel company for you. The retreats include stylish accommodation, fitness classes, delicious eats, wellness activities, spa experiences, cultural excursions and more.

Fit & Fly has a supportive environment and instructors that make workouts challenging but doable depending on the guest’s capabilities.

The company welcomes women from all ages, though the majority of their guests are in their 40s & 50s, this makes it one of the best wellness tours for singles over 40.

Their top retreat destinations are Bali, Ibiza and Maldives, with a few more exotic places to choose from. 

Trips for women over 40 who want to be in the water

If your perfect getaway involves being near the water, go for a sailing adventure or a river cruise holiday. 

These trips are an incredible way to enjoy stunning sunsets and sea views, do snorkeling and excursions, and meet new people on board a catamaran, yacht or cruise (if you go fancy). Unpack once, visit many cities! 

Another World Adventures

Larissa, one of our group members , has a tour company called Another World Adventures that offers many sailing trips around the world.

We hosted an interview with her , in which she shared an experience that changed her life: she sailed a 100 year old tall ship during a transatlantic sailing voyage from Europe to Brazil. 

Larissa had an exciting sailing journey and this inspired her to launch her own company and offer genuine sailing expeditions.

“I organize sailing adventures on all kinds of boats from coastal exploring to ocean voyages. Most of the folk joining are solo and it’s always good times” she shared with us.”

This is a terrific choice if you want to have an out-of-the-box holiday experience. 

Another World Adventures has sailing trips with different activity levels, from sitting back and enjoying the ride, to learning new skills and helping sail tall ships, and of all durations, from a few days adventure to an over a month expedition. 

This trip will take you all over the world, from Scandinavia and the Arctic, to Europe, or Central America & the Caribbean. Sailing can be great for a single holiday, and you can choose from a variety of trip experiences like a digital detox, a wildlife encounter or going big and sailing across the Atlantic.  

AmaWaterways River Cruises

With 19 years of experience, AmaWaterways offers river cruises with fascinating itineraries in many destinations throughout the world, they even have special themed cruises like Safaris and Wildlife in Africa, Wine river cruises and Christmas river cruises in Europe. 

AmaWaterways are a great choice for a solo traveler over 40 thanks to their Solo Travelers Special , which includes ways to save on your solo booking: 25% single supplement on balcony staterooms or 10% single supplement on fixed window staterooms on select Europe and Asia river cruises.

The Solo Travelers Special also includes personalized crew service and assistance with planning excursions. 

If you have a week to take for your single holiday, the 7-nights Melodies of the Danube or the 7-nights Vineyards of the Rhine and Moselle are exceptional choices and some of their most popular cruises.

Diving and sailing onboard the Tui Tai

While not necessarily a trip designed for solo travelers who are older than 40, the Tui Tai offers unparalleled beauty in one of the least visited parts of Fiji.

You board their tall ship and embark on 5 or 7 days of daily diving or snorkeling, cultural exploration of the main local tribes, nature and hiking and great onboard food. 

If you are not a qualified diver yet you can get your certification there, our Co-Founder Mar did, and we promise you that you will never dive anywhere as magical.

Swim among mantas, dive the most colorful soft corals, and explore a part of Polynesia that has yet to be flooded with tourists.

If you come on your own, we promise that the crew will take care of you and the family-style meals and excursions means you will always be in good company.

Trips for women over 40 who want to learn

If you are intellectually curious, an educational holiday is perfect for you.

In these group trips, travel is an enriching experience that is made better by the in-depth learning opportunities, plus you are already starting on the right foot since everyone on the trip shares the same interest for the topic or culture and a love of culture.

Road Scholar

A not-for-profit organization, Road Scholar is an innovative company that creates educational traveling experiences. 

As they state on their website, they are “a diverse community of knowledge seekers and explorers, united in the belief that lifelong learning is a vital part of overall wellbeing”. 

Road Scholar specializes in learning trips for people of 40+ years old and Kelsey Knoedler Perri, PR Director at Road Scholar, told us that almost 30% of their travelers in 2021 came solo and 80% of them were women. 

Their portfolio offers thousands of adventures in more than 100 countries. Immerse yourself in the Latin American ambience going on their South American Odyssey (Brazil, Argentina, Chile and Peru), discover Morocco and their Melting Pot of Cultures, or dive into the Cultural Highlights of Japan. 

They have a massive variety of destinations, travel styles and trip lengths, and they also offer a roommate option to avoid paying a full single supplement.

This is a very unique way to have a single holiday, focused on learning about the destinations, connecting with new people, and making the best of your vacation. 

Trips for women over 40 who want to learn a new skill 

Want to learn how to cook in Italy? Or how to paint in Spain? If you want your next holiday to add value to your life, go on a learning adventure to an exciting destination. 

There are many companies who specialize in learning holidays where you take classes, courses and activities, while immersing yourself in the local culture and meeting new people . It’s a fantastic way to invest in yourself and explore the world at the same time.

Look at these great options for a learning experience holiday. 

Creative Escapes

Since 2007, this award-winning company has offered photography holidays to amazing destinations worldwide. 

Creative Escapes bring together travelers in their 40s and 50s and take them on small group tours, in which they learn something new while meeting travelers with similar interests. Also, 95% of their guests travel solo, so it’s a perfect holiday for singles. 

We love the company’s concept: hand-built luxury photography holidays. 

Creative Escapes itineraries are focused on hidden gems that only locals know, so they tend to stay off the main and touristy landmarks, and instead take you to the best spots, bars and eateries of every destination. 

They have short haul tours of 5 days and long haul tours of 10-11 days long.

Their destination picks are exotic and unique, with trips to Nepal, Cambodia, Cuba, Costa Rica, Japan, Morocco and Bhutan. Along with, they also offer more specific locations and experiences like a tour to the Sahara desert, the Holi Festival in India or Yosemite Park in the United States. 

Barcelona-based Apertour offers professional photography workshops to some of the most exotic and photogenic destinations such as Oman, the Faroe Islands or Japan.

Group are very small and focus on personal attention with often 2 professional photographers for a group of 7 guests, honing in on the photography skills you’ll learn.

If you don’t want to go on a longer trip, they also offer city based photo workshops that are shorter in nature (2 to 6 hours), and will give you a different perspective on the place you are visiting, or live in.

Flavours Holidays

Operating since 1998, Flavours Holidays offers unique learning tours for solo travelers: quality cooking, painting, pilates, language and photography holidays. 

All the trip destinations are picturesque sites in Italy, Spain and the UK, where guests can learn from passionate chefs and experienced tutors. All their tours are custom-made for solo travelers, with over 80% of their guests traveling solo. 

The good news is they don’t charge single supplements, so you can have a comfy room for yourself.

Our top pick is the cooking holiday in Italy, they have options in many Italian sites: Tuscany, Puglia, Amalfi, Venice, Bologna and Sicily. 

Other great options for your singles holiday can be a painting tour in Andalusia, Spain or in the Scottish Highlands. These holidays are perfect for singles over 40 who want to learn something new while discovering places and cultures.  

The Himalayan Writing Retreat

The Himalayan Writing Retreat is a homestay-style accommodation in the Himalayas often frequented by those looking to write a book or pursue other artistic endeavours in peace and quiet that offers writing workshops and retreats with set departures.

Workshops are usually 4 days long and delivered by professionals. You can then choose to stay at the retreat longer. Food is offered on site and the beautiful surroundings are sure to inspire you.

Trips for women over 40 who are digital nomads

One of the best ways to enjoy life and immerse yourself in a new culture is by spending some time there living like a local.

If you are single and have the opportunity to work from anywhere (thanks COVID) you should consider moving somewhere else for a month and having a taste for what local life there is like.

We like the formula that is put together by companies such as Remote Year which allow you to work in a different country every month for 4 to 12 months depending on the program or even for as short as a week for their Unplug version. Or you can book a shorter stint with Unsettled which starts at 1 week only.

While these programs tend to attract younger travelers who are starting their digital nomad life journey and are looking for a community to keep them accountable, they can also be a great way to enjoy a fun-filled break without taking any annual leave.

Best vacation spots for singles over 40

We asked our wonderful community to share recommendations of the best destinations for a single holiday. Here are the top picks to have an epic vacation for travelers over 40, based on their personal experience.

Kilimanjaro climbing adventure in Tanzania

Instead of spending your savings on a mid-life crisis Porsche, do something challenging and potentially more rewarding and prove to yourself that you still have it with a mindset and physical challenge.

Nothing says achievement and self fulfilment like getting to the top of a really high mountain while supporting local women.

Our Kilimanjaro climb takes a maximum of 14 women to the Roof of Africa. Besides the beautiful landscapes with free roaming wildlife, the vistas and the fact that you get up and close with a high altitude glacier, the expedition is a once in a lifetime opportunity to do something that is not only physically challenging but which puts your mental strength to the test.

All our guests come to the trip solo and make lifelong connections with the guides, porters and the rest of the female trekkers. There is something very special about bonding over a challenge that seems insurmountable only to conquer your fears and anxieties together.

What is more, our trip donates $200 for each booking to the Tanzania Women Guides Foundation and supports women receiving training to become guides so you will be making a difference in future generations of women in tourism. 

We have so far helped train more than 50 women and are completely changing the tourism landscape in the country with more women joining a 100% male dominated industry.

Challenge yourself and challenge stereotypes while changing lives.

A bucket list country for a solo trip, Thailand is a very popular and affordable destination. Locals are very welcoming, there is a stream of solo travelers of all ages and safety is not generally a concern. No wonder this is one of the top destinations for a first solo trip according to our Solo Female Travelers Survey.

Why is Thailand a great destination for single women over 40?

Thailand truly is a great destination for all ages and stages of life but we find it an especially interesting place to visit as a single woman over 40 because of the many fabulous luxury resorts at affordable prices where you can be spoiled rotten.

Try delicious Thai food, get massages at an affordable price and wander among temples and palaces. Once you have had your fix of the cultural side, take yourself on a beautiful beach holiday, Thailand is home to stunning stretches of white sand and numerous islands. 

If a wellness retreat is what you are after, Thailand has a huge selection, from the luxury retreat at Chiva Som mentioned above to the Thai boxing detox getaways in Phuket. 

Spain is a very tourist-friendly country with lots of beautiful places to visit and Barcelona is a wonderful destination for singles over 40 to indulge in great gastronomy and immerse themselves in beautiful architecture and ancient culture. 

Why is Barcelona a great destination for single women over 40?

In the words of one of our group members, Marta, “I think Barcelona is a great place if you are in your 40s and single; lots of parties all night long, lots of culture, delicious food and good weather all year round”. 

And we agree!

That’s why we take our only-women small group tours to Barcelona & Beyond . If you’re into an awesome nightlife and live atmosphere, set off to Barcelona where you can enjoy the city and the beach in the same place, plus acclaimed architecture and art museums.

Want to learn more and get our insider scoop on Barcelona and Catalonia? 

Our Co-Founder Mar is a local and has shared with us all the insights and hidden gems of the city. Go check out our detailed guide on everything you need to know about Barcelona and Catalonia : the must-visit sites, local spots, day trips, how to get around and much more. 

Join our Solo Female Travelers Tours to Barcelona

Rich in history and culture, Turkey has everything to amaze the traveler and whimsical locations such as Cappadocia that have become the stuff of dreams.

Although we do think Turkey is great at all ages, we do find it a destination that is perfect for those who are single and over the age of 40. 

Why is Turkey a great destination for single women over 40?

We find that the “mid-life crisis” can be fabulous in Turkey. Book a hammam appointment, indulge in fresh Mediterranean cuisine, sleep at a luxury hotel by the Bosphorus and generally enjoy life.

Sheri, a member of our community, suggests a visit to Istanbul: “The city is enchanting, to me. The people, the air, the Bosporus. The food! There is so much history and beauty there. Sitting on the Bosporus was truly magical”. 

And other members agree that hot air ballooning in Cappadocia with jaw dropping sunrise views is a bucket list experience not to miss. 

Italy has some of the best holiday destinations for singles over 40.

With dreamy sites like Tuscany , Amalfi Coast and Venice , ‘La Bella Italia’ offers outstanding art and architecture, delicious food, enchanting cities and beautiful landscapes.

Why is Italy a great destination for single women over 40?

It’s easy to see how Italy is such a great destination for women over 40. So many movies, books and stories feature women finding love, life and their purpose in life in Italy. There must be something in the ancient architecture, the wonderful nature and the food that causes all that!

Beyond the magic, Italy has lots of things to do so it’s a great choice for anyone, younger or older, but women over 40 are particularly well catered for by the culture, the food and the many old-world luxury properties.

Some great options are: wine tasting, winery visits and gastronomic experiences in Tuscany , walking the picturesque pastel-colored city centers of the Amalfi Coast , exploring the narrow alleys of the eternal city of Venice , taking a road trip in Sicily, or visiting renowned art galleries and museums in Rome.

Regarding accommodation, Italy offers a wide variety of places to stay from hostels to stylish villas to excellent hotels. Traveling within Italy is very easy and safe, with high-speed trains that can take you across the country in a few hours.

Renting a car is also a great option, roadtrips in Italy offer breathtaking views and landscapes and can take you from the mountains to the sea.

Have an Italian holiday if you’re looking to enjoy life in a foodie heaven filled with outstanding art, architecture and scenery.

Join our women only tours to Italy

A vast country with many exciting destinations, Mexico is full of charming cities, delicious food and lots of fun.

Why is Mexico a great destination for single women over 40?

While Mexico is a destination for all ages, it is true that it makes for a great trip if you are single and in your 40s or older because of how rich the heritage is.

According to Margunn, member of our Facebook group, “It’s a mix of everything. So much history, good food, nice beaches, handsome men, culture and music, beautiful nature, fun parties, friendly people. I always felt so welcomed in Mexico”. 

Home to 35 UNESCO-listed World Heritage sites, Mexico has an ideal city for every travel style, with popular destinations being the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico City and the quaint town of San Miguel de Allende or the foodie-central city of Oaxaca.  

If you’re willing to do an all-inclusive vacation on the beach, Mexico has some of the best resorts for singles over 40 such as Grand Velas Los Cabos , Hotel Xcaret Playa del Carmen and UNICO Hotel Riviera Maya will pamper you and give you everything you need for a fabulous vacation.

Safari adventure in Tanzania

A once in a lifetime experience, going on safari in Tanzania is an incredible option for an adventure holiday and a fantastic way to celebrate your 40s!

Why is a safari a great trip for single women over 40?

This is one of our top seller tour for solo female travelers , where we enjoy wildlife through the Ngorongoro Region and Central Serengeti, and also have time to relax on the beach in Zanzibar.

Tanzania has wonderful wildlife and many safari options across the country, it’s almost guaranteed you’ll observe lions, giraffes, elephants, hippos, wildebeest, chimpanzees and many more animals in their natural habitat.

Besides exciting safaris, there’s plenty to do in Tanzania like discovering more about their history and culture by chatting with the friendly locals, meet red-cloaked Maasai people or enjoying the stunning beaches in Zanzibar.

Tanzania is also the ideal destination for all single climbers and trekkers out there, with the opportunity to climb to Mt. Kilimanjaro ‘s summit, otherwise known as ‘The top of Africa’.

Join our women-only tours to Tanzania

A group of islands in the Indian Ocean, with stunning beaches and luxury resorts, Maldives is an ideal vacation spot for single women over 40, trust us, you don’t have to wait for that special someone to enjoy it.

Go book that Maldives trip, and have a honeymoon with yourself, you deserve it!

Seneca, our group member, says: “It’s the furthest I’ve ever traveled and it’s a destination people tend to “save” for when they have a husband or boyfriend. I was single, it was my 45th birthday and I took myself on a solo birthday celebration. It was a bucket list trip and it was amazing”.

Why are the Maldives a great destination for single women over 40?

The Maldives is no longer a couple’s destination. Some resorts have started to offer single’s packages and there are lots of friends and families vacationing there and even “party” islands where singles come together.

Check out the solo packages from luxury resort Gili Lankanfushi , which was also one of the first resorts to pioneer the overwater villa concept.

Suggested by many of our members, Ireland is a marvelous country, very safe for solo female travelers and with a rich cultural heritage and amazing landscapes.

All this and the friendliness of the locals make it a fantastic destination for singles over 40, many of whom come all the way from North America in search of their roots.

Megan said: “It is a very lively and beautiful country; shopping, dining, loads of walking, live singing and dancing in the pubs, tours. The people are so incredibly friendly, kind, helpful, unassuming, lighthearted. I travelled solo and felt very safe and even dining alone”. 

Rexanna added: “The people are the best in the world. Mountains, rugged seasides and cliffs, beaches. Seafood! History and culture. Old architecture. Did I say the people are the friendliest! You can drive yourself anywhere you want to go, getting lost in Ireland is THE MOST FUN!”. 

Why is Ireland a great destination for single women over 40?

Besides the beautiful landscapes, Ireland is known for its lively atmosphere. The country has many events and celebrations throughout the year, so this is the place to meet people while dancing the night away.

In January, Dublin hosts the largest festival of traditional music in Ireland, and in March there’s a 5-day St. Patricks celebration.

These are interesting festivities in which you’ll have a good time and learn more about Irish culture during your holiday. 

If you’re into road trips, Ireland is the perfect place to have a scenic drive full of natural beauty and amazing castles. Northern Ireland has attracted many visitors because it was a film location of the popular TV show Game of Thrones. 

Besides Dublin, there are plenty of other lively cities to visit like Galway, Belfast and Cork, in which you will see the rich heritage of the country and try some delicious Irish local food with a modern twist. 

Morocco is a fascinating destination full of color, diversity, and interesting landmarks. We love Morocco, so much that it’s one of the destinations we take our women-only small group tours to.

From ancient medinas to the dunes of the Sahara, Morocco has something for every traveler.

Some of the top sites to visit while in Morocco are: Marrakech medina, the dunes of the Sahara desert, the blue city Chefchaouen, Fez, Ait Ben Haddou (where many Hollywood movies have been filmed), charming Essaouira, Casablanca (don’t miss the impressive Hassan II mosque), and many more.

Why is Morocco a great destination for single women over 40?

While this is a destination for all ages, we consider Morocco a great trip for single women over 40 because of the travel experience you already have.

Street harassment and touting can be overwhelming, especially in Marrakech, so having some experience solo traveling is useful before visiting Morocco.

Besides offering stunning cultural and historical attractions, this is a wonderful place to relax and have a wellness holiday on your own.

Check out Paradis Plage Resort , which is a beautiful complex that offers packages with activities related to spa & wellness, yoga and surf, and the many luxury hotels in Marrakech such as La Maison Arabe , Les Jardins de la Koutoubia , Amanjena or La Sultana .

Join our Solo Female Travelers Tours to Morocco

Right in the coast of the Pacific Ocean in South America, Peru is home to a section of the Amazon rainforest and to magical vestiges like Machu Picchu, an ancient Incan city located in the Andes mountains. 

Why is Peru a great destination for single women over 40?

Like Kilimanjaro , Peru and its many hiking itineraries and trails, are a personal challenge and a spiritual experience many women over 40 choose to go on solo.

One of our group members says: “The people, the different areas (Lima, Arequipa, Cusco, Colca Canyon), the food… just my entire experience. Private horse riding tour through the eucalyptus groves and private ruins above the city of Cusco was my favorite part”.

Culturally diverse and naturally gifted, we find that Peru is a good destination for those who like to have a bit of everything. Not to mention the spotlight the country, and particularly its capital, are getting with regards to culinary creativity and expression .

The Kingdom in the Clouds is one of the most spiritual, peaceful and beautiful countries in the world.

The air is cleaner than anywhere else due to the minimal pollution, the high altitude and the country’s negative carbon production record. The people are calm, and life happens without rush and stress.

Why is Bhutan a great destination for single women over 40?

From the moment you land in Paro you will feel like you are somewhere really special. The many Tibetan Bhudist temples, often constructed without nails, the clear alpine rivers, the untouched forests, the crisp cool air, the clean eating and the simple life, makes this a wonderful solo trip.

However, Bhutan is not for everyone. You can’t backpack or have a budget trip here because the country has imposed a daily fee of $200 per person for visitors , which is why this is probably a destination you need to save up for for a few years.

There are many destinations and holiday ideas for solos over 40, you just need to pick the right one for you.

Whether it is an independent solo trip, a group adventure, a retreat or a real challenge will depend on what you are trying to get out of it.

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Home » Blog » 33 Best holiday ideas for singles over 40 in 2023

A Solo Woman Traveling

Boutique Travel Guides & All-Female Luxury Tours

Ultimate Guide for Women Solo Traveling In Your 40s

Since I have been traveling alone in every decade of my adult life (now 44), I have a lot of wisdom to share. So if you are thinking of taking your first solo trip and wondering what to expect solo traveling in your 40s, you are in the right place.

This ultimate guide will contain all my best tips and advice as a seasoned solo traveler. Basically, everything you need to know for traveling alone as a woman in your 40s.

As I mentioned, I started my solo travel journey in my 20s and all through my 30s. Traveling by myself was certainly different when I was younger than it is now. Now we have the internet on our phones ; )

In so many ways I much prefer solo trips now in my forties than I did in my 20s! For me, solo traveling has been more enjoyable the older I get.

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Top Tips For Solo Traveling in Your 40s

When planning your first solo trip you will want to consider everything that I mention in this list when crafting your adventure.

#1. Book the Best Hotel in Your Budget 

The older I get, one thing is clear. I require a nice, higher-quality hotel . Being close to the nightlife is the furthest thing from my mind, but a hotel with an onsite fine dining restaurant is top of the list.

When you are looking for hotels consider a few key factors:

• Guest Rating
• Proximity to Transit

I could deal with a lot in my 20s when traveling alone when it came to the quality of my accommodations. But now in my 40s, I have up-leveled and I am not going back.

Expert Tip: Want to ensure the hotel is in a nice location? Map your hotel to other five-star hotels or high-end boutiques.

When choosing a hotel, I used to base it on what the star rating is , but I don’t do that anymore.

I learned that to get a four-star rating the hotel needs to offer room service. It doesn’t mean the hotel is guaranteed to be great, just because it has four stars.

Some of the nicest hotels I have ever stayed in only had three stars. These were boutique hotels and they were way better than the four-star hotels I was finding.

Read the guest ratings in great detail! I like using Booking.com for most travel destinations and VBRO depending on where I am going.

#2. Pay for Convenience (You’ll Thank Me Later)

I know it may be important to stay on a travel budget , but I also know that when I am traveling solo I want to be as comfortable as possible.

That might mean splurging on that airport transfer when you arrive in a new city after a long flight.

When I was younger and traveling, like in my 30’s, I was confident I could navigate the transit. But now that I have been there and done that, in my 40s I just don’t want to bother with public transport.

I want to be the only one with her name on a whiteboard when I leave the baggage claim. Take me to my hotel now, please. Start your solo adventure in style! 

#3. Book Dinner Reservations In Advance

Are you a solo traveling foodie like me? If you love food and want the travel dining experience to go seamlessly, then book your dinner reservations ahead of time.

In some destinations, like on a solo trip to Paris , you might need to book a month or so away.

It is worth it, I promise! And if you are worried about dining alone , don’t be! Sure if you are traveling alone in your 40’s for the very first time, I get you might feel a little awkward to eat by yourself. 

But if you bring a book or plan a little project like editing your photos while doing the time will fly and you won’t notice you are alone nearly that much.

📲 Apps I use when booking restaurants are Open Table & The Fork .

#4. Research Age Appropriate Group Tours

An example would be maybe not joining a booze cruise that is marketed to 20-year-olds and finding something with a little more of a relaxed vibe.

When I traveled solo in Amsterdam in my 20s and took a canal cruise it was all the party. Then when I went back for a solo trip in my late 30s I opted for a cruise with dinner and wine tastings.

Joining group tours as a solo traveler is a fantastic way to meet new people and get a little social time on your trip.  

On my solo trip to Athens , I did a walking tour with a bunch of people and ended up with a couple of friends at the end of the day.

Several sites have free walking tours in most major cities! Walking tours, paid or free are one of the best ways to really see all that a city has to offer!

✈️ Looking to join an all-female tour? Travel with us! Join A Solo Woman Travel Small Group Trips !

#5. Invest in Safety Products to Ease Your Mind

Will I be safe traveling alone? I know that the top concern of the other women I meet traveling alone is being worried about being safe.

There are a number of things you can get to add extra security to your hotel room. A great way to do this is to get a lock like this one.

Portable Door Lock

Additional Safety and Privacy Perfect for Traveling Hotel

Another idea is having a personal safety alarm on yourself at all times. You can also add apps to your phone such as Mayday . Check out the other apps best for solo female travelers .

Solo Female Travel Safety Gear

Secondary Lock

Feel extra secure in your accommodations with this affordable secondary lock.

Portable Safe

Want to protect your valuables anywhere? This portable safe will do the trick!

Portable Wifi

Being connected makes me feel safe! Get a portable Wi-Fi device and have the internet everywhere!

Travel Insurance

I don’t care how safe the city is, things happen. I always get travel insurance anytime I travel!

Travel Apps for Women

Download 13 must-have travel apps for women

Emergency Numbers

Emergency Number in Europe : Dial 112 & Emergency Number in the United States: Dial 911

#6. Be Less Ambitious in Your Solo Travel Itinerary

When I was younger and planning my trip to Europe , I was very adventurous and pushed myself to see as many places as I could on one trip. Now, I much prefer to take it slow and not rush just to check another country off my list. 

I would say 3-4 nights in a city is a good start. Unless it’s a small village, then maybe 2 nights. When I travel solo in the Greek Islands I like to stay 4 nights on each island.

My idea of a dream trip is one where I can spend about 30% of the time relaxing and the other 70% exploring. Maybe you would rather spend more or less time relaxing.

When you go solo, the best part is there are absolutely no compromises. It’s amazing! 

✈️ Are Ready to Travel Alone?: Take The Solo Travel Readiness Quiz!

#7. Join Solo Female Travel Groups in Your Age Group

These days there are so many ways to find others with similar interests! One of the best websites to find a new travel best friend is Meetup! You can find loads of activities that are local or abroad!

Facebook is also full of groups for different interests and age groups. I recommended joining some of these groups for solo female travelers to get an idea of a destination and seek any advice that other solo travelers may have.

You will be amazed at how many new friends you can make in these groups. They are filled with interesting people who all share a similar desire to travel. 

​In these groups, you can ask for advice on your travel plans and get suggestions for the best destinations in the country you are hoping to visit. 

I created a free-to-join Facebook Group, A Solo Woman Traveling.

#8. Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a no-brainer . It is not something you just want to skip in order to save money. Your trip is an investment, and something you should protect.

Travel Insurance will ease your mind knowing if something unfortunate happens you are covered!

You can get affordable comprehensive coverage from Safety Wing !

#9. Upgrade Your Cell Phone Plan

Having a working cell phone is a non-negotiable. Don’t try to save money by thinking you will just use Wi-Fi when you find it.

While that is a nice trick to use less data , you want to make sure you have internet when you need it!

I would also recommend getting an international SIM card if you are going to be away for more than a week!

What works for me is going with Airalo , and with 150,000 + reviews, I am not alone.

#10. Renting a Car to See More

Consider renting a car for more freedom . When I was traveling when I was young I wasn’t confident to rent a car.

But now when I am traveling in my 40s I feel like I have the experience needed to rent a car and see more of the destination not being limited to just the public transit system.

Best Places To Go Solo Traveling in Your 40s

The destination you choose for traveling alone in your 40’s could be different than the destination you choose in your 20’s.

You want to find a place that takes you out of your comfort zone a little , but not one where you simply don’t belong. 

For example, going to Mykonos solo in your 20s may be more fun than in your 40s. A great place I would recommend you visit instead is an island like Milos.

Bascailly if the island is popular for students I would say stay away. It might even be a good idea to visit more of the idyllic small towns than big cities, depending on your travel style.

Some of my favorite destinations to visit alone in my 40s have been:

• Verona, Italy
• Milan, Italy
• Serifos, Greece
• Faro, Portugal

What to pack when solo traveling in your 40’s

I pack better now in my 40s than when I first started traveling by myself. You won’t need nearly as much as you think you might . 

Just remember whatever you bring you are lugging around the whole time. It’s a liability in my opinion! 

​Take the basics and consider the climate you will be traveling in. You want to be comfortable, but don’t bring more than a couple of sweaters. 

I wear the same thing at least twice on any given trip. No one cares, nor will they know you wore that shirt 2 days ago ; )

If you forget something, don’t panic, there are often plenty of opportunities to find a replacement for what you left behind. 

Packing Do’s

• Pack light and easy-to-fold clothes.
• Bring items versatile items for mix-matching
• Comfortable shoes (2 pairs)
• Take medications and supplements
• Electronic chargers and adaptors

Packing Don’ts

• Large bulky sweaters
• Luxury items (bags, wallets, watches, jewelry)
• Any “incase items” unless they couldn’t be purchased where you are going.

What NOT TO DO When Traveling Alone

1. Don’t Flash Valuables: Leave the Louis Vuitton at home. Seriously, avoid displaying expensive jewelry, electronics, or large amounts of cash.

2. Don’t Share Too Much Information:  Be cautious about revealing your travel plans, accommodation details, or personal information to strangers. Where a fake wedding ring if you are concerned about unwanted attention. 

3. Avoid Risky Areas: Goes without saying I’m sure, but stay away from poorly lit, deserted areas, especially at night.

4. Don’t Overindulge: Limit alcohol consumption and never leave your drink unattended. I basically limit it to 2 drinks at dinner.

5. Avoid Showing Off Large Maps: This can mark you as a tourist. Instead, use discreet digital maps or apps on your phone. If you are feeling lost, locate a hotel or convenience store . There are usually people that can help.

6. Don’t Trust Strangers Blindly: While it’s great to make new friends, always be cautious. Trust your instincts.

7. Avoid Risky Modes of Transportation: Choose safe and reputable transportation options, especially at night. 

8. Don’t Keep All Valuables in One Place: Distribute money and important documents in different hidden pockets or locations. I also take pictures of my cards and passports and email them to myself.

9. Avoid Unofficial Tour Guides: Book tours with recognized and reputable tour agencies or guides. I like using Viator and Get Your Guide.

10. Don’t Forget to Inform Someone: Always let someone (a friend, or family member) know where you’re going for the day and when you expect to return.

Traveling alone can be a wonderful experience when done safely. Always prioritize your safety and well-being, and you’ll be set for an unforgettable journey.

Pro Tip:  Even though I found solo travel to be super safe, I ALWAYS recommend getting   travel insurance  to avoid any mishaps. Lost luggage or getting sick can happen at any time.

How to Explain Your Solo Trip to Friends and Family

​Deciding to take a solo trip is a big decision, and from personal experience, loved ones can have a lot of questions. Don’t be surprised if friends and family have a not-so-supportive reaction at first. 

Remember what is scary for them might just get projected onto your adventurous decision. It can take a few conversations to get everyone on the same page with your plans. 

Being prepared and having a well-planned solo travel itinerary typically calms those fears in others. 

I always share my location with my loved ones, it is easy to do if you with your phone. Just research how to do it based on your phone model.

A good tip for any solo traveler is to save places for emergency services in your phone ahead of time.

Tips to Save Money on Solo Trips

• Book travel in the shoulder and off-seasons. This will help with the cost of accommodations.
• Skip sit-down restaurants for both breakfast and lunch and hit the food trucks.
• Use flight alerts and use the search everywhere feature when using Skyscanner.

​Benefits of Solo Travel

If you are looking for a new life perspective , there is no better way to find one than taking a solo trip . You don’t even have to leave your own country. Hell, you could travel just a few hours away and go to a wellness retreat. Just get out there and spend time with yourself. 

I find that the more I travel alone, the more I enjoy my own company.  you are on  

The best experiences in my life have been when I took that chance and got out of my comfort zone. 

Not sure where to go? Take the quiz and find out which European City is the best for solo travel!

​Not sure if you are ready to go solo? 

Still contemplating whether solo traveling in your 40s is right for you?  If so, consider small group trips with other female solo travelers. 

There are a lot of great options for a small group tour that could be the perfect introduction to traveling on your own. You could book a city break vacation to fun places like San Francisco. Or, you could join my tour in Europe.

I am hosting trips for solo female travelers in the coming months and into next year! Want to learn more? Fill out the survey here!

Conclusion: Solo Traveling in Your 40s

I hope this blog post provided the information you need to feel confident to book a solo trip.

Solo travel can be the most transformative experience that will strengthen your inner confidence and ability in yourself.

Need some support to get started? I offer one-on-one coaching! Fill out the contact form here to get in touch.

FAQs Solo Travel in Your 40s

Yes, it’s safe to travel solo in your 40s, just as it is at other ages. Safety largely depends on the destination and the precautions you take. Many solo travelers in their 40s (and beyond) have fulfilling journeys. Women, in particular, might consider researching the safety of specific destinations, using registered taxis, and staying in well-reviewed accommodations. Staying aware of your surroundings and not sharing too much personal information with strangers is always a good rule of thumb, irrespective of age.

Absolutely! There’s a growing community of middle-aged solo travelers. Joining travel forums, participating in group tours, or attending local events and classes can be great ways to meet fellow travelers. There are also specific travel groups and platforms online where solo travelers in their 40s share experiences and arrange meet-ups.

Yes, many travel agencies and tour operators recognize the unique needs and interests of travelers in their 40s. These specialized tours often focus on a blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences, ensuring you’re with like-minded individuals. Researching online or consulting with travel agents can help you find the perfect group or tour.

Popular destinations can vary based on individual interests. However, some favorites among solo travelers in their 40s include cultural cities like Rome, Kyoto, or Barcelona; nature retreats in places like New Zealand, Costa Rica, or the Canadian Rockies; and relaxation spots in Bali, the Amalfi Coast, or the Greek Islands. Always consider your own interests and comfort levels, and research destinations accordingly.

Preparation is key. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance. Keep both digital and physical copies of your important documents. Research local customs and norms of your destination. Stay connected by keeping a local SIM card or a global roaming plan. Finally, always let someone know your whereabouts and your plans.

Looking For A Solo Travel Community?

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Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder & visionary behind A Solo Woman Traveling. Drawing from her extensive personal experience globetrotting solo to over 40 countries, she has dedicated herself to a mission: crafting invaluable guides and itineraries for women who embark on solo adventures.

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25 Fantastic Singles Travel Groups You’ll Love

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 04/04/2024

A few years ago there were hardly any single travel groups that offered options for holidays for one – let alone companies who entirely focused on solo departures and looked at things like no single supplements etc and solo travel groups.

Thank goodness for the growth in singles travelling as now there is a good economic reason for companies to look at developing great offers for those looking for holidays for one.

There are now singles travel groups over 30s, single travel for over 50, singles travel getaways, luxury solo travel tours and singles travel getaways galore.

I will let you know which of these tour companies I have traveled with and which I haven’t – if you then go and do a tour on one of the ones I haven’t been on please do let me know what they are like – and I would love you to write a guest post if you’re up for it.

There are so many options for solo traveling today – here are some great trips for single travelers.

BEST SOLO TOUR OPERATOR: Short on time? You can’t go wrong with Explore which has a section dedicated to solo travel on their website.

30 Singles Travel Groups

Top 3 companies for organised solo travel vacations.

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Explore ✔️ Dedicated Solo Tours ✔️ Small Group Tours ✔️ No single supplement

G Adventures ✔️ No single supplement ✔️ Free time in itineraries ✔️ Evening Group Meals

Encounters Travel ✔️ Private & Small Group Focus ✔️ 20 Years Experience ✔️ Range of Tours

1. Group Tours for Solo Travellers

Explore is perhaps one of the best singles travel groups. It is also the company I have been a traveling single with the most so the best place to start! Explore has been running since 1981 so they have loads of experience with running tours.

Explore covers over 100 countries and has a maximum group size of 11 and there is no single supplement if you take a shared room. There is an option to have your own room but that does cost extra. They prioritize working with locals and do a great job finding expert guides.

Around 60% of people who go on Explore trips are traveling on their own and they break down solo vacations into age groups on their website which is really helpful.

My second recommendation for solo travel vacations is G Adventures . They have a wide range of small-group trips designed for the solo traveler. There is no single supplement as long as you are willing to share a room with someone of the same sex. G Adventures also offers single rooms at reasonable prices if that is your preference.

The itineraries for G Adventures trips tend to have more free time than some of the other tour companies in this article. This is great if you are someone that likes to have some time to yourself to relax or explore further but want the support and structure of an organised group trip.

One of the most difficult parts of solo travel can be dinner. Eating on your own can feel lonely and isolating. The tour leader organizes group meals most nights, so if you want company you will almost be able to find it.

If you are traveling alone one of the best ways not to feel like it is to join a group doing some challenge – when I summited Kilimanjaro on an organized solo tour. we were a team from almost the word go. More than half of the trip was traveling solo – some were single, some had partners who didn’t want to go, some like me had someone pull out last minute etc.

It didn’t matter who you had arrived with – what mattered was everyone wanted someone to talk to about whether or not to take Diamox, tips on altitude, share lollies, etc etc.

Check G Adventures Tours and Prices

Check Explore Tours and Prices

I have done two travel solo tours with friends – North India and cycling Southern Iceland . Again an activity-based trip can be a great travel for singles option – particularly as you tend to be exhausted every night and eat and sleep.

⇒ Don’t miss my Complete Guides to Singles Holidays over 40s – and Vacations for over 50 singles – these thorough guides have all of the most commonly asked questions about Solo Travel – and everything I have learned.

Want to join me on a small group female trip to Africa? I am heading to Kenya in October on an 8 night safari with Walking Wild Africa and would love you to join me. It’s a unique mix of game drives, walking safari and some chill time. Make sure you tell Kim that you want to go on the tour with The Boutique Adventurer so she gets the right one!

⇒ Still not sure about group travel for singles? Check out this great post on The Benefits of Solo Trave l .

2. Solo Female Travelers Club

Solo Female Travelers Club is a community of more than 90,000, run by the fantastic travel bloggers Meg and Mar. The heart of the community is their Facebook group, which has some great information and is the perfect way to meet other females interested in traveling solo.

Meg and Mar also run female-only small group tours that range from luxury retreats to adventurous expeditions in some awesome locations.

3. Luxury Single Traveller Vacations

One company I have been particularly keen to try but it just hasn’t worked out on timings and destinations is Flash Pack . I love the tone and feel of their website – it is very much about boutique adventures.

They focus on people in their 30s and 40s and seem to have some great travel groups for solo travelers.

Australian based Travelling Divas also promises boutique hotels and customized trips. I have also been very keen to try Cox and Kings solo holidays .

Cox and Kings have a great reputation as a high-end travel specialist so I am highly confident that the thread count on their sheets will be up to my standards based on how fantastic their hotels look.

These trips though will, of course, be at a premium to some of the other options I have mentioned. But their group travel singles options look terrific.

⇒ Looking for some travel inspiration? Check out this post on The Best Adventure and Travel Quotes .

⇒ Spas and skiing are terrific options for solo travelers. Check out my posts on the best Singles Ski Holiday options and on 30 Fabulous Solo Spa Breaks.

4. Solo Travel Companies that are specifically for traveling alone

I would highly recommend that you think beyond the country you live in when it comes to solo travel groups. For example, quite a few travel companies based in Australia now run specific holidays for solo travel groups.

Encounter Travels is all about solo travel but not traveling alone as they say.

They also age match so if you are a 35-year-old solo traveler you won’t be in a group of people in their 70s. They do have quite a few trips to various parts of Australia but also a few trips to other places around the world.

Another solo travel company based in Australia is Twos a Crowd . Some UK based companies that specialize in solo travel groups are:

⇒ www.solosholidays.co.uk

⇒ www.justyou.co.uk

⇒ www.friendshiptravel.co.uk

5. Companies that specialise in Adventure

For a more adventurous bent check out    8th-day adventures . They are a London based club that has lots of sporting events and other fun things that are a mix of social and activity.

They also run some group holidays which could be good for the more adventurous solo traveler eg Everest base camp

An interesting-sounding organization is Archaeo Adventures. This female-focused travel company looks at adventures in countries like Morocco and Jordan in small groups. They are about boutique hotels, working with locals, and off-the-beaten-track experiences.

Female-focused hosted adventure trips are also the focus of Living Big which is US-based. Another company specializing in solo travel groups USA is Overseas Adventure Travel , which offers some fantastic-sounding trips for adventurous solo travelers.

Heading to Australia there are Adventurous Women and Another World Adventures.  Another World Adventures curates adventures from different providers. It is a very comprehensive site with loads of options that sound great.

6. Cruises for Solo Travelers

Even cruise ships have gotten on board with the growth in solo travel. Norwegian Cruise Line is the brand most commonly mentioned for having actually built single cabins and apparently there is a dedicated area for solo travelers.

They have several cruise brands – Norwegian Epic, Breakaway, Getaway, and Escape. But ensure you look closely as these can be more family-focused at certain times of the year – check out my top tip 2 below.

Encounter Travel also has loads of information on solo cruise options. They even have a “cabin mates wanted” section where you can potentially find another same-sex solo traveler with whom you can share a cabin.

7. Charity Based Solo Travel Companies

There are a few organisations that run group tours that have some activity/challenge that supports a charity. These can be a great way to find others to travel with and the shared sense of purpose can surely add to the group bond.

Have a look at Global Adventure Challenges and Charity Challenge.

8. Passion-based Solo Travel Tours

An organized trip around an activity you love that is also about solo travel is a fantastic formula to follow. Even if you don’t really bond with anyone on the trip if you have learned more about Italian cooking or photographing sea life it is a well-spent holiday.

Quite a few organizations I have listed above offer planned trips around passions and hobbies. Here are a few others I’ve found:

Frui has some fantastic looking passion-based trips – from photography (a great one for solo travel) to painting to food in some lovely locations. I did a day class with them once in London in photography and they were great.

The Red Sea in Egypt appears to be a very popular solo travel spot – most likely driven by the amount of activity that can be done in the water. There are also numerous diving and/or underwater photography courses in the area.

Skyros is a very famous spot in Greece for activity/passion-based trips. They used to have a bit of a self-help bent but now they are very focused on passions like painting, singing, yoga, and learning.

They have two locations in Greece and one on the Isle of Wight for taster weekends. According to their site, 70% of their travelers are between 40 and 60, and most travel solo. This is a great option if you’re looking for singles travel groups over 40.

9. Something Different for Single Travel Groups

In August 2017, I spent a month living life Unsettled in Medellin Colombia, and loved it. Unsettled is a fantastic concept. Essentially it aims to give people the experience of living in a city for a month rather than being a tourist.

It does this because it has about 25-30 people sign up, organizes apartments and coworking space and sets up activities that you can participate in as much or as little as you like.

The other people on the trip are your community, the hosts act as your connection to local life and having an apartment and workspace means it feels more like living.

They choose brilliant locations from Buenos Aires to Cape Town to Barcelona . I highly recommend checking them out.

If you decide to live life Unsettled then use the code “FRIENDSOFUNSETTLED”  and tell them that the Boutique Adventurer sent you for a discount of USD$150 .

Solo Travel Tips

1. mix up your plans.

A great way to travel solo is to mix things up. If you were heading to say Australia you could go and stay in a spa for a few days (a great way to meet people), head to say Sydney on your own and stay at a boutique hotel and use Tinder or join a meetup group.

You could then join an organized tour with someone like Explore, travel with them for a while, and then have some time solo again. Committing to a lengthy organized tour can be a bit much – plus it is hard to find one that covers everything that you want.

I find a mix is optimal – if you feel lonely it is only a few days till you have company, if you’re dying to be on your own again it’s only a few days till that happens. And you may very well meet others traveling alone on your organized section who are keen to have further adventures after the tour.

I have many friends I have met when traveling solo who become travel buddies and loads of other friends of mine are the same.

2. Avoid School Holidays

September is a great time to travel solo. Be careful of all organized tours/cruises etc during any school holiday time, particularly over the summer, as you may end up surrounded by families.

However, school has returned in September, and there are often many deals for solo travelers.

3. Fill Up your Kindle

There is nothing like a good book to keep you company when traveling solo! I keep adding to my list – please email me with more suggestions! [email protected] .

I keep them all in my Amazon shop. And I have just launched a range of e-books aimed at solo travelers! I have an ebook on Solo Travel, my trip to Colombia with Unsettled and Everest Base Camp .

Frequently Asked Questions about Solo Travel

Are there travel companies just for single people.

Yes! There are several travel companies just for single people as well as companies like G Adventures that offer trips designed for single travelers.

What is the best holiday destination for singles?

In my opinion, rather than focusing on a particular destination singles should look at holidays with a focus or goal like a cycling trip or a trek. This is most likely to bring together like-minded people and provide a common purpose.

Is solo travel lonely?

It can be. The best way to avoid feeling lonely when traveling solo is to join an organised tour. Or if you are on your own look at staying in high-end hostels for some comfort and the chance to meet others. And a good book can transport you from any difficult situation! And don’t forget to check out things like the safest cities in the US to make sure you can relax during your trip.

How do I meet other female solo travelers?

There are several facebook groups for female solo travelers such as Solo Female Travelers (who also organise group trips for solo female travelers). I have also found that going to a spa/yoga retreat can be a good way to meet other female solo travelers.

Who Paid for What with this Singles Travel Groups Post

I paid for everything associated with this post. This was completely me travelling and not working with any tourism boards or hotels or tour groups. Much of what is in this post is stuff I learned before I started my blog – and probably a lot of what led me to start a travel blog.

However, this singles travel groups post does contain affiliate links. That means that if you click through on them and make a purchase I may well receive a small commission. I just wanted to make sure that you knew.

Related Posts:

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Like this Singles travel groups post? Why Not Pin It?

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Pratik Sharma

Thursday 6th of August 2020

Amazing article. Thank you for sharing this blog for single travel groups.

Christian Alcantara

Thursday 7th of May 2020

I've never done solo travel before, but if ever that I plan to do so I will definitely get back at this post.

Sarena Wilson

Friday 11th of August 2017

Wow! Incredible beautiful site with great informative content. thanks for sharing this............post........... Everest trekking

Monday 15th of May 2017

Great ideas. I have done a lot of solo tour travel as I like the security of a tour when I am on my own. Some other companies:

Contiki is great for the 18-35s, especially when you haven't travelled much before.

My favourite company is G Adventures, no single supplement, but you can pay for your own room and a huge range of tours world wide. They are Canadian based. All ages, very budget and affordable.

Another one very similar to G Adventures but Australian based is Intrepid tours. World wide, budget, no single supplement but also has own room option if you don't want to share.

I have made life long friends on these tours when I was travelling solo. Now we meet up all over the world and do tours together!

Jocelyn Soltren

Friday 12th of May 2017

Awesome article thank you for sharing.

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This Solo Travel Company Is Back With 17 New Trips — From Tanzania's Wildebeest Migration to a Northern Lights Tour of Iceland

Sidelined for a year, the London-based tour company returns with new itineraries in Morocco, Croatia, Costa Rica, Finland, and Sri Lanka, among others.

After shuttering its business last November , Flash Pack is back with its trips specially designed for solo travelers in their 30s and 40s — and the 17 newly curated itineraries promise more meaningful and inspired experiences than ever.

"We have spent the last 12 months obsessing over details, pouring over customer feedback, data, and insights from our guides, and refining every single trip from the ground up," co-founder Lee Thompson told Travel + Leisure. "For our relaunch, we've refined our portfolio from 74 trips to 17 to allow us to focus on these details and ensure that every traveler experiences something truly special — and a little unexpected."

The relaunched company's new trips include short-break vacations of five days or less in Finland, Iceland , and Mexico City, as well as long-haul trips of eight to 12 days in Argentina, Bali, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Japan, Jordan, Morocco, Peru, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Turkey, and Vietnam.

"Our itineraries focus on delivering experiences that would either be very hard to do alone — such as hiking the secret backdoor to Petra in Jordan or having lunch with a sumo wrestler in Japan — or that would be too expensive — like staying on a private arctic island in Finland or sleeping in converted land rovers in the Serengeti in Tanzania and waking up for the greatest show on Earth," he added. "The best thing about group travel is that, not only do travelers get to meet a bunch of like-minded people, but it opens up so many opportunities that would be nearly impossible to do on your own."

Other highlights include the Argentina getaway with a candlelit dinner in a prehistoric cave in Patagonia and making your own wine in Mendoza, and the Iceland tour led by a Northern Lights photographer, which includes a freezing water immersion with a cold water therapy guru.

Thompson and fellow co-founder Radha Vyas came up with the idea on their first date in 2012. Two years later, the couple — who are now married — launched Flash Pack and began to connect travelers who had outgrown the lower-budget group tours geared toward 20-somethings, but also weren't quite ready for the often slower-paced vacations that were typically filled with travelers over the age of 50. Instead, these trips focus on bucket-list destinations with itineraries that mix both the adventurous spirit and luxurious touches. But at the core, the company is really about fostering friendships among travelers.

"We believe that adventure and travel are both powerful ingredients that help facilitate the creation of life-long friendships, and each of our trips has been specifically designed to build just that," Thompson said. "For example in South Africa , travelers abseil Table Mountain on day one, taking people out of their comfort zone in a shared experience [that] opens them up to these connections."

The pandemic downtime has brought that mission to to the forefront of these new itineraries. "While it's clear travel will bounce back in a huge way, we need meaningful connections more than ever," he told T+L, adding that 80 percent of past Flash Pack travelers keep in touch with their travelmates . Before the pause, the company created 50,000 friendships in just 2019.

"The pandemic has led to isolation and the feeling of loneliness," Thompson said. "So we are on a mission to create one million meaningful friendships across the globe."

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Singles holidays for over 40s

Solo holidays for the over 40s.

Our small group adventure holidays are perfect for single travellers in their 40s, whether you’re a seasoned solo traveller or this is your first singles holiday. You’ll be in great company on any of our tours. Our average small group size is just 11 people and usually includes around half solo travellers and the rest couples or friends travelling together. So whether you’re looking for a walking holiday or a wildlife tour , a cycling holiday or a cultural trip , there is an adventure waiting for you. Our trips attract people of all ages who love to explore, discover and share their love for travel. Yet our schedules are flexible enough that you can choose to do your own thing if you’d prefer. Enjoy your singles holiday for over 40s at your own pace. Our trips are graded from relaxed to full-on, so you can choose a trip that’s right for you, whether you like a busy itinerary or plenty of downtime to explore on your own. You’ll have all the excitement of travelling solo but with the safety of travelling in a group. Plus, all the day-to-day planning has been taken care of by our expert local tour leaders who will help you get to the heart of your destination. New to Explore? We’ve answered some of the most-asked questions about joining our tours as a solo traveller.

Adventure holidays for singles over 40

Our Cultural Discovery holidays are our most popular trips of all - from taking a Grand Tour of Morocco  to cruising along lakes and between fishing villages among other must-see  Cambodia Highlights , there's the perfect culture-packed trip for every single traveller over 40. Led by expert guides , every one of our cultural small group trips is designed to offer an authentic experience, beyond the tourist attractions and into the heart of the local culture. On some trips you'll even have the opportunity to stay and eat with locals, and travel on local transport - you'll truly have all the excitement of a solo trip, with a carefully planned itinerary so there's nothing for you to worry about but how to capture the moments! Speaking of the locals, many of our adventure holidays for over 40s offer you the chance to get up close to some of the world's most wonderful wildlife. The trip of a lifetime for nature lovers, our Wildlife trips could show you the  Highlights of Costa Rica , including its lazy sloths, noisy monkeys and vibrantly coloured frogs and birds, or perhaps you'd like to spot toucans, parrots and crocodiles as you  Discover Belize ?

If a  safari  holiday has always been on your Bucket List, our 15-day  Botswana Wildlife Safari  takes you into the carefully protected habitats of Africa's most magnificent wildlife so you can see white rhino, elephant, buffalo, cheetah, and lion in their natural and happy states. Holidays for single travellers don't come more unforgettable than this.

Active holidays for solo travellers in their 40s

Whether you're an avid walker, a keen cyclist or always enjoy trying something new, at Explore we offer action-packed small group activity holidays that make solo travel over 40 even more fun. On our best-selling  Toubkal Climb  Moroccan trekking adventure, you'll be guided through lush forests and remote villages before embarking upon an ascent of Jebel Toubkal - North Africa's highest peak, from where you can take in the panoramic and breathtaking views of the High Atlas. Or if you like to stretch your legs but don't want to tackle a tricky incline, go  On Foot in Northern Cyprus  to follow trails through the Besparmak Mountains, and admire its beautiful flora and fauna, Crusader castles and majestic coastline. Prefer to feel the wind in your hair on a bike? We offer many two wheeled-trips too, where we'll even provide your bike! Whatever level of cycling you feel ready to take on, whether that's a moderately challenging journey along Southeastern European roads as you  Cycle Albania , or a gentle, picturesque cruise alongside the  Canal Du Midi .

Popular tours for 40+ year old solos

Walking in madeira.

Turkey in Depth

Jordan Discovery

Maldive Dhoni Cruise

Amalfi Coast Walking - Agriturismo

Walking Jordan's Spice Trails

Why take a solo travel tour in your 40s with Explore?

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From big wows to hidden gems, our tours leave you feeling that you've really explored.

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Chosen for their great knowledge of your destination and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.

Small groups

Average groups of 11; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.

Responsible at heart

How we operate sets us apart; our flexible booking policy, our loyalty scheme & sustainable approach.

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Solo holidays, solo holidays for over 30s, solo holidays for over 50s, solo holidays for over 60s, solo adventure holidays, solo walking holidays, solo cycling holidays, ready for your solo adventure.

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First solo trip with Explore? Top 7 questions answered

Solo travel guide for women

Where to go? Our recommendations by month

7 questions answered for your first small-group adventure holiday

Single Travel Groups Over 40

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Single Tours In Your 40s: Best Itineraries Prepare for an adventure in this stunning destination with our travel guide.

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Honeymoon Packages, Group Vacation, Adventure Vacation – Have you always thought that all these vacation packages are for people going on vacation with their friends or families? Are you single, over 40 years old, and you cannot choose one of them? Tours of single travel groups over 40 are the ones for you.

Singularity is not considered a strange anomaly in the standard system for couples and families anymore. Single travel has become one of the fastest-growing areas, and many tour operators have incorporated various packages for single travelers like the single travel groups over 40. Tour operators are aware of the market’s current state and are beginning to recognize singles as their main business source. Also, a person may go on such tours to get out of the daily boring routine of continuous work.

Single Travel Groups Over 40 holidays are like traveling with family. You are surrounded by like-minded people all the time, making travel more enjoyable and exciting. Singles over 40 years can be rewarding because they can make lifelong friends, build their network, and cater to different personalities and cultures simultaneously.

Single travel groups over 40 packages are also much more fun than traveling alone. For women over 40 traveling solo, who want to avoid personal holidays for security reasons, group travel like the single travel groups over 40 is an excellent option. For these personal trips, the tour group meticulously provides all travel arrangements to the desired destination. Ticket reservations ensure for individual travelers that hotel reservations and holidays are memorable. Single travel groups over 40 can also travel to exotic or dark places without worrying about cost or safety.

People opting for single travel groups over 40 have the opportunity to travel alone. If you are looking for single travel groups over 40, you will be happy to know some great options. If you have never been on a cruise before, you will be very satisfied with the experience. Cruises are amazing floating hotels. You can travel to many countries without packing and unpacking. The cruises host various events, such as a theme party, a one-minute get-way, and cocktails, where everyone can mingle and interact with each other. Cruises have become all the rage for solo travelers, so tour operators and websites are making special arrangements for solo travelers opting for single travel groups over 40 to enjoy the experience of sailing with other singles on board.

Single travel groups over 40 holiday packages can be surprisingly good for some lucky singletons. A normal holiday turns out to be a blessing for those singles, as they can also find their soulmate on such holidays. You can also practice individual adventure sports such as skiing, mountaineering, diving, and paragliding. There are many single travel groups over 40 holiday tours out there in the market today. Choose from the options according to your travel destination, wherever you want and wherever you want. The fun and excitement of a personal holiday await you.

Travel Tours For Singles Over 40

Some older people like to travel alone, especially those who have a habit of traveling. Most older travelers are unaware of new holiday or tour packages like travel tours for singles over 40. If you travel alone, then you have to pay for everything during the whole trip. You can share your expenses with a friend by choosing holidays like travel tours for singles over 40. Many companies can find details and information about their customers. If you search for travel tours for singles over 40 years, the agencies will develop recommendations of a person having similar preferences. Travel tours for singles over 40 can provide you with additional fun with minimal spending.

Vacations For Singles Over 40

On vacations for singles over 40, you can increase your chances of making the friends you want by participating in various outdoor activities. In the process, you can meet some cool singles, a chance to make lifelong friends and have a good time. Many organizations inspire single men and women for outdoor activities such as beach parties, hikes, travel, and cruises on such vacations for singles over 40. A tour of the local park to sunbathe and relax can be a great opportunity to make a potential friend.

No matter what you do, you will have a great time and maybe even meet a friend who can be your partner for life. There is a way to get out and connect with nature, relax and connect with yourself with vacations for singles over 40 holidays. The possibilities are endless on vacations for singles over 40, and you will find yourself walking outside and having a fantastic time. You may also like boat tours or small group tours .

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Best Tours & Travel Groups for Singles

Travel groups bring together individuals with similar interests from all around the world! Many single travelers decide to join a group tour as it’s an ideal setting to share the experience amongst like-minded travelers.  

There are many solo travel groups available, as well as plenty of reasons why single travelers might opt to join one. Perhaps there’s a destination you’ve always wanted to visit, but would feel more comfortable traveling with an organized group.  

Maybe you’re no stranger to traveling alone, and are primarily interested in meeting new people in a group setting. Or, you might just appreciate the convenience of having the itinerary and logistics planned for you. 

There’s a multitude of options that cater to a wide variety of demographics, such as travel groups for singles over 40, tours for seniors traveling alone, and travel tours for singles in their 20s.

What are Group Tours?

Group tours are operated by companies that organize specific itineraries and arrange a wide variety of trips that cater to various demographics and interests. Travelers are transported through the exciting journey, within a small group setting. 

When traveling with a tour group, there’s no need to worry about small details or logistics. The tour company conveniently puts together a seamless itinerary, and handles your transportation and accommodations at each stop.

The best tours and travel groups for singles  offer a bit of everything! Various types of tours exist, including enchanting wildlife safaris, scenic walking tours, tasty culinary ventures, thrilling outdoor adventures, and many more!  

Take a deep dive into a destination you’ve always wanted to visit, as many tour companies offer sightseeing itineraries to a vast selection of countries! Read on below for tour operators that offer a wide array of exciting group tours to choose from, many of which are ideal for singles.  

Intrepid is a leading adventure tour company that organizes small group tours, offering over 1,000 trips to 100 countries! Pick your favorite worldwide destination to discover, or choose from a variety of tour themes, such as a walking tour through Italy’s Amalfi Coast, or an outdoor adventure in Peru.

G Adventures

G Adventures is a travel company that arranges small group tours, safaris, and expeditions, primarily focused on young people. Choose from a variety of interesting travel styles such as a wellness tour or an active tour. If you have a desired region in mind, select from one of many itineraries featuring that destination. Try an active tour to the Inca trail in Peru, or a sightseeing expedition in Morocco.  

Trafalgar is a tour operator that arranges trips to over 72 countries. Choose from a wide selection of creative itineraries that include your favorite destination, or select from a plethora of exciting travel themes!    Join a sightseeing tour and see the highlights of Ireland & Scotland, or explore European culture and history on a journey to Spain and Portugal.  

Exodus is a tour company that organizes trips to over 100 different countries! Exodus focuses on adventure, and features hundreds of interesting itineraries to select from. Try an active cycling tour, a sightseeing walking tour, or a thrilling wildlife experience. Exodus also offers a selection of group tours designed for solo travelers.

Discovering Group Tours for Solo Travelers

If you plan to travel alone, there are factors to consider when searching for a group tour. There’s an abundance of tours and travel groups for singles. Ask yourself the below questions to help narrow down your options and determine a tour that’s best suited for you.

When do you intend to travel?

When looking at a specific group tour, you might come across a list of intended departure dates and an itinerary of the destinations you will visit. Tour companies generally have pre-set departure dates for when a tour will take place. These can be far ahead, or closer to the current date. As the tour dates and itinerary are typically pre-arranged, this is something to be mindful of when planning your vacation, so that you can choose a date that works best for your schedule.

How long would you like to travel for?

Many tours range from 8 to 14 days long, as they account for travel time between cities, and allow you to experience the highlights of the cities visited. While it depends on the tour, many itineraries will typically visit 3 to 5 different destinations within that time frame. For certain experiences, you can also find tours as short as 5 days, tours as long as 24 days, and everything else in-between.

What type of activities interest you?

Tour companies typically offer various types of tours. Perhaps you would like to spend your days hiking in the forest, explore the food and culture of a country, or uncover historic landmarks in a city. A common theme offered is sightseeing-based tours. These tours transport you to a brand-new city or country and allow you to visit the notable attractions and top highlights. They are broad and generally appeal to most people.

There are also more specific tour themes for certain interests. For example, there are adventure tours that take you outdoors, culinary trips, and sailing or cruise expeditions. While you’ll often find single travelers in most groups, there’s also tours that specifically offer group trips for solo travelers.

Where do you want to go?

Is there a specific destination that you already have in mind? If not, flip through a travel magazine for ideas, or see our Solo Trip Guide  for inspiration. Tour companies will generally plan an itinerary that gives you the opportunity to visit various top cities within the same country or region. For those interested in group travel for singles, there’s a wide array of destinations to contemplate.

Try browsing through tour listings to see what piques your interest. Often, you’ll be able to see a group tour’s itinerary on the tour listing page, which displays the scheduled cities and the activities planned for each day.   

See More for Solo Travelers:

There’s a multitude of cities, adventures, and group tours for singles to consider. The best group trips for singles showcase the highlights of a destination and give you the opportunity to experience a new city alongside others.

However, if you’re looking for other travel styles where a creative itinerary is planned for you, or an engaging atmosphere where you have the opportunity to meet new people, you might be interested in a voyage on a cruise! Read the Best Cruises for Solo Travelers for more options!

If you prefer the excitement of planning your own trip and the flexibility of traveling at your own pace, there are plenty of amazing destinations and vacation experiences for single travelers featured on our website.

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• Find people in their 30s and 40s to travel with on a group adventure

Radha Vyas 24th Jan 2022 4 min read

For single professionals in their 30s and 40s, the quest to find a travel buddy can be a bit of a deal-breaker when it comes to making a dream travel experience happen. This is why Flash Pack was created , to unite soloists to join together for adventures of a lifetime. But these are no ordinary group tours. Expect adventure-packed itineraries with luxury hotels and unforgettable experiences. The best bit? You get to share the adventure with like-minded solo travelers in their 30s and 40s: the same life stage, the same age group and the same desire to travel the world. For solo people at this point in their lives, we believe it’s the perfect time to meet new friends and quench that thirst for wanderlust. Just choose your destination and we’ll set you up with fellow travelers ready to explore life off-the-beaten path. We’ll also put you in a position to make fresh connections and form unbreakable bonds.

Meet solo travelers in their 30s and 40s

The majority of group tours out there can be a bit of a (not so) lucky dip in terms of who you travel with. So, it may sound ruthless, but we’re really strict about keeping our adventures solely for single travelers aged in their 30s and 40s. In this age range, we find people want awesome adventures, balanced with luxury and comfort. A large portion of our customers – 68%, in fact – have never been on a group tour before, often because they’ve had their career hat on and been busy carving out a successful life. Now, with a little more money under their belt, the nagging feeling of missing out on seeing the world is too strong to resist.

But as their friends settle down, have kids and head off on family holidays, trying to find people to travel with becomes increasingly difficult. That’s why we specifically target our marketing to get the right kind of Flashpacker on our trips. So, you won’t find 18-year-olds looking for late nights, or retirees in search of gentle coach tours.

Share meaningful experiences together

We’ve learnt along the way one very simple equation: like-minded travelers + epic experiences = the best kind of friendships. It seems that, when a group of similarly-aged people find themselves doing something new and exciting, it creates the ultimate setting in which to meet new travel buddies and form beautiful bonds. In fact, 80% of Flashpackers stay in touch after their trips have ended. There’s something about pushing yourself beyond comfort zones together that ignites connection. Whether that’s trekking through the mountain ranges of Argentinian Patagonia , snorkeling with octopi in the ethereal kelp forest of South Africa , or staying overnight at an ancient Buddhist monastery in Japan , these experiences create memories and friendships that last a lifetime.

Swerve the single supplement

On our adventures, you get to swerve the single supplement normally incurred when solo traveling, because instead we match you up with like-minded roommates. This may seem a bold move at first, but we believe this is a really great way to get to know your fellow travelers. The rooms are all same-gender, but we’re not talking bunk beds and lights out at 9pm. Our accommodation is unique and consciously chosen – think converted safari trucks in the Serengeti and hideaway hotels on a private island in Finnish Lapland . Whether you’re glamping in the desert or stargazing from a remote jungle eco-lodge , as a solo traveler, it’s so much more fun this way.

Get together for reunions

After all the memories you co-created with your fellow Flashpackers, we bet you’ll be planning a reunion as soon as you land. We get that making new friends in your 30s and 40s alongside a hectic career can be rare, so we love bringing together like-minded adventure travelers; people who often remain friends for life. Flashpacker Amanda, who traveled to Vietnam with us, summed up the experience: “I truly believe that no-one will understand the essence of a Flash Pack adventure until you have been through it yourself. I wouldn’t hesitate to do another Flash Pack trip, not just because of the amazing itineraries and destinations, but because – what’s not to like about potentially making great friends for life?”

Feeling motivated? Find out how Flash Pack works , and celebrate your 30s and 40s by exploring the world with other like-minded travelers.

Got a story or adventure that could inspire a solo traveler like you? Tag @flashpack on social or email [email protected] to be featured.

Travelling with Flash Pack revived my confidence – and I met a new best friend for life

By Melissa Capocci

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Vacations for singles over 50s & 60s

Traveling single? Small group travel could be just the ticket

Is a  Japanese  onsen calling you? Or maybe a flavor-packed taco in the streets of  Mexico City  has your name on it? Whether you’re traveling solo, single or simply can’t be labeled, our small group tours are the perfect way to explore a destination and meet like-minded people. While our trips aren’t exclusively for single travelers in their  50s or 60s , you'll be part of a small group of intergenerational, adventure-hungry individuals who are just as keen to explore as you are. From swapping anecdotes over Aperols on the  Amalfi Coast  to late-night chats under the desert skies of Wadi Rum, it’s often those moments of connection – big and small – that are most memorable. 

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Our trips can be great for singles over 50 and 60 as we take care of safety, logistics and transport so you can focus your time on the joy of travel. We don’t offer the classic ‘singles-only’ tours, but we do provide the perfect base for people looking to get to know others, usually a varied mix of ages, nationalities, cultures and more. Since our trips are so diverse, this could mean you’re with couples in their 40s, singles in their 20s, family groups or people traveling on their own in their fifties and beyond. Our trips aren’t specifically designed for making perfect matches, but hey, if it happens, it  happens .

The best part of traveling in a small group is the friends you can make in the most unlikely of places – we’re talking while hiking the  Inca Trail  or cooking dhal in  Sri Lanka . It also means a bunch of new faces to share the world’s most epic experiences with and a few people around to watch your back (especially when walking through a traffic crossing in  Vietnam ). No matter who you’re sharing your trip with, you’ll be docking at unbelievable sites, meeting local people and getting a one-of-a-kind journey - single or not, we think that's pretty epic.

Traveling solo at any age can feel like a big deal, especially when venturing to far-off places. That’s why small group trips are the perfect fit, no matter if you’re traveling alone at 25 or 65. We’ll do the planning, manage the itinerary, handle the transport and keep  safety  in mind - all so you can immerse yourself to the max. Not to mention, your guide will be able to support you with potential language barriers, give recommendations, show you the best spots for photos and so much more. Don’t just take our word for it; find out for yourself.

Maybe you’ve already seen the big sites and now looking for a different experience or new perspective. That’s where we come in. Our trips are led by our Local Leaders, all of whom are experts in their corner of the world and are out there showing it to others right now. Their knowledge of their country’s attractions, delicacies, cultures and communities is something you probably won’t get to experience elsewhere. Find yourself ducking into unknown hotspots and learning more than just the basics when you’re on one of our trips.

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Do I need a COVID-19 vaccine to join an Intrepid trip?

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Who are Intrepid travelers?

Intrepid adventures are for travelers with a yearning to get off the beaten track. Whether you're traveling solo, with a group of friends, or are aged 18 or 70, there is an Intrepid adventure to suit your interests and comfort level. Each Intrepid adventure has a physical rating and cultural grading to help you decide if the trip is right for you. No special skills are required for most adventures, just a sense of adventure and a curiosity about the world. Even on our camping adventures, no previous experience is required; our tents are easy to set up, even for first-time campers.

Are there age restrictions on your trips?

For the majority of our trips, the minimum age is 15. An adult must accompany all children under the age of 18. Our Overland Adventures have a minimum age of 18. Younger children can join us on our Family trips and Short Break Adventures , but check each trip for its minimum age, which is located on the trip’s overview page on the website. Most of our trips don’t have a maximum age limit, but a Self-Assessment Form is required for all travelers 70 years and over.

How many people will be on my trip?

Good things come in small packages, which is why we keep our group sizes down. This means we’re small enough to remain flexible as we thread our way through communities without intimidating the locals. On most of our trips you’ll be part of an intimate group of 12-16 people, though our group sizes are on average 10 people. Our Overland trips are in purpose-built vehicles that can carry up to 24 travelers. Group sizes are displayed on each trip’s overview page on our website.

I’m traveling alone – is that OK?

This is the beauty of the Intrepid style of travel: many of our travelers join because they are traveling solo and want to meet and share experiences with like-minded people. 

I have a disability – can I join an Intrepid trip?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. We ask that you carefully consider whether you are physically and mentally able to complete the itinerary you have chosen, recognizing that on many trips you will be required to carry your own bags and use public transport.

Where we can we will make reasonable adjustments to the operation of our trips to facilitate the requirements of disabled travelers – such as booking ground floor accommodation, or having our leaders communicate important directions in writing as well as verbally. Many travelers with disabilities have been able to enjoy our trips by traveling with a friend or companion who can assist with specific needs. If joining a group trip is not practical, we may be able to provide you with a private departure. Please contact our sales team for further information on any of our itineraries.

Do I need to buy travel insurance?

Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips if you’re traveling internationally. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation, but minimum coverage may differ from trip to trip, so make sure you check the Travel Insurance section in your Essential Trip Information. You will not be permitted to join the group until your leader has sighted your insurance policy number and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number – it’s really important there are no barriers to getting emergency assistance for you.

For travelers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or the USA, the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However, the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and travelers from these regions who decline travel insurance when traveling outside their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognizing personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise.

Will I have my own room?

It’s completely up to you. On our trips, rooming is organized on a twin-share basis, and we pair up solo travelers with another traveler of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. But if you'd like your own room, an individual room is available on the majority of our trips (it’s just a small extra charge). Just mention this to our  customer service team  when booking your trip and they'll arrange it for you.

As a responsible tour operator, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. In the case that your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please  contact us  so that we can discuss rooming options with you.

On a small selection of itineraries some accommodations are booked on an open gender, multi-share basis (for example on a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam). In those instances it will clearly be stated in our Essential Trip Information prior to booking and traveling.

How does group time work?

Whether you’re traveling solo or with a partner, our trips have a set itinerary. But within that there’s time set aside for your own exploration (if you want to – no pressure). The amount of free time depends on the  travel style  - you can ask your guide for a few tips then head out alone, or hang out with the group and see where the day takes you.

What makes a small group tour better than a coach tour?

The main difference between a small group tour and a coach tour is the size of the group; our tours have 10 travelers each (on average), while coaches can hold up to 60 people. This means that you'll never have to vie for your leader's attention on a small group tour because you'll automatically have it.

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Millennials and Gen Zers want human connection, so they're choosing travel tours with strangers to cure their loneliness

• Intrepid Travel said young people are seeking immersive, non-traditional vacation experiences. 
• Millennials share more travel similarities with Gen Z travelers than previous generations.
• Young travelers are prioritizing interest-based travel over destination-based travel.

Young people are seeking more human connection in the post-lockdown era, so they're embracing small-group travel.

Modern technology and social media apps have created a hyper-connected world, but many millennials and Gen Zers say the focus on screens has caused an epidemic of loneliness .

While New apps and local community groups are trying to address this "social distance" problem, some young people are choosing to book their vacations with strangers to find more face-to-face camaraderie.

Intrepid Travel, which organizes small-group experiences in over 100 countries, including Morocco and Sri Lanka, says it's seen a growing interest from young people in these kinds of group tours.

"They're prioritizing travel over buying houses, mortgages, and other expenses," Matt Berna, Intrepid Travel's president of the Americas, told Business Insider.

Group travel can be hit-or-miss with people. They can conjure an image of 40-plus tourists being led off a bus to an overcrowded attraction by their shouting tour guide.

But Berna said Intrepid Travel's focus on small group experiences is the opposite. The average Intrepid Travel group has 10 people.

"It allows us to travel like locals," Berna said. "We eat in small local restaurants. We stay in family-owned hotels. We typically avoid mass market tourism, hotels, or experiences."

It also allows people to form new bonds in a tight-knit setting, which young travelers crave, after the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Camaraderie in a group is so special because you make great friendships and share laughs and stories," Berna said.

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Berna said these unique experiences are popular with 18 to 29-year-olds — Intrepid Travel's core audience. Experiences are designed with young travelers in mind, offering more free time to explore on their own and more active outings.

Berna said Intrepid Travel began receiving requests from people in their 30s looking for adventures off the beaten path. Millennials traditionally valued experience-driven opportunities , and that desire hasn't waned with time.

"It became clear that millennials are aging, but the style they want to travel is immersive," Berna said. "If anything, they resonated more with Gen Z than the generations above them."

American Express Travel's 2023 Global Travel Trends Report found nearly 80% of millennials and Gen Zers respondents said they want to "partake in a day in the life of locals in the destination they are visiting," pointing toward activities like visiting local cultural sites and "hole-in-the-wall" attractions.

Airbnb, owned by millennial billionaire Brian Chesky , reported in 2020 that it also found that "immersive encounters" were becoming more popular with this generation, with interest up 102% year-to-year.

Older generations, Berna said, book vacations based on destination. Older travelers tend to plan vacations around conventional tourist spots — think the Eiffel Tower in Paris — because it's popular.

However, younger travelers don't have the same sense of FOMO — or "the fear of missing out" — that their parents do. Instead, they book vacations by interest.

At Intrepid Travel, that includes cycling enthusiasts traveling to Vietnam to peddle through the local sites. Experiences based on camping, festivals, and food are also options travelers can explore.

"They want to be a trendsetter going to the next cool place," Berna said. "It will be something new you can share with your friends, so you get the bragging rights. It's a bit more adventurous instead of following the crowd."

After conducting consumer research among its more than 300,000 travelers, Intrepid Travel formally expanded the young trip age range to 35 in February.

"Intrepid identified an opportunity to better cater for an expanded age range after experiencing a rise in inquiries from travelers in their early 30s wanting to join Intrepid's young adult trips," a press release said. "The company conducted extensive consumer research which showed that most travelers aged 18 to 35 prefer to travel with those of a similar age."

As for where travelers are going, Berna said South America has emerged as a top contender, with Peru gaining traction. The country closed its tourist attractions amid political unrest from late 2022 to early 2023, but they reopened in February 2023, according to Travel Weekly .

Another top spot is South Korea, which Berna said is typically more affordable than Japan. Intrepid Travel said they saw 172% increase globally in bookings to South Korea from 2022 to 2023.

"People want to go away and have these stories. They've settled back post-pandemic into feeling life, wanting to travel again, and seeking connection," Berna said. "Not just with other travelers in groups but with destinations."

Watch: Marriott International's Tina Edmundson tells Insider that the travel mindset has changed since the pandemic

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All of our inspiring small group adventure tours are ideal for single travelers over 30, from walking trips to safaris, cycling adventures to cultural and foodie trips. And you’ll be in good company – around half the people in our small groups are typically traveling solo. You'll have all the excitement of traveling solo, but you'll never be alone as our small group trips are designed to offer authentic and often action-packed experiences with like-minded people, plus an expert group leader who takes care of all the day-to-day details for you. That means all you have to do is arrive and enjoy your trip, whether you want to be active and adventurous on one of our  Multi-Activity trips  or a scenic and challenging Cycling adventure or  Walking tour , or you want to get to know a new corner of the world and meet the locals on a  Discovery trip. Even if it's your first time traveling solo, you'll fit right in with your group and have an adventure to remember! New to Explore? Read more about traveling solo with us in our blog, which answers some of the most-asked questions. Please note our tours are not limited to 30 and 40 year olds , there may be a wider range of ages on the trip.

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At Explore, adventure tours are our speciality. That includes  adventure tours for single travelers , as we offer a variety of trip styles, themes and paces to suit every taste and energy level. Our Cultural Discovery trips are extremely popular for over 30s solo's as we plan your itinerary with daily activities, accommodation and transport, plus many meals, so you can focus on the adventure. Our faster-paced cultural trips include European group tours, such as the Journey through the Balkans trip, a 12-day tour around one of the world's most intriguing areas with plenty of opportunities to discover history, nature and Balkan city culture too. Foodies won't want to miss our  Classical Sicily  trip, where in between visits to spectacular and well-preserved archaeological sites there will be plenty of opportunities to indulge in exquisite local food and wine. Fancy venturing further afield? Explore Imperial cities, breathtaking mountain ranges and vast gorges on the  Highlights of Morocco  group trip, or become a  China Explorer  as we guide you through the Forbidden City, along the Great Wall and towards Shanghai, China's vibrant, modern city that cannot be missed.

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For over 30s solo travelers with energy to spare, join one of our group Active Adventure Tours where you can canoe, kayak, climb, or cycle to your heart's content! Our  Active Turkey!  trip includes a sea kayaking trip to the 'Sunken City' of Kekova, as well as swimming and snorkelling so you can truly get under the surface of this fascinating destination, or explore new heights by bike or raft on our scenic  Alpine Lakes of Slovenia  group trip. We also offer unforgettable trips for solo travelers over 30 that are ideal for keen walkers, trekkers or cyclists. Our Walking the Western US National Parks  trip includes the dramatic landscapes of the Grand Canyon and Yosemite National Park. Or perhaps you'd like to join our walking  Adventures in Patagonia , as we make our way through the unbelievably varied and beautiful terrain of Argentina and Chile, or hop on two wheels to  Cycle Sicily  with fellow cycling enthusiasts - we'll even provide your bike.

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Read more about our solo travel adventures

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10 unusual places to visit as a solo traveller

First solo trip with Explore? Top 7 questions answered

Solo travel guide for women

Where to go? Our recommendations by month

7 questions answered for your first small-group adventure tour

Money blog: First direct route to Vegas from North launches as Virgin links up with Manchester Airport

Rolex has increased the price of some of its watches in the UK after the cost of gold surged. The luxury watch manufacturer has hiked some prices by as much as 4%. Read this and the rest of today's consumer and personal finance news below - and leave your thoughts in the comments box.

Monday 3 June 2024 13:35, UK

• Why British mortgage holders (and maybe holidaymakers) should be watching Frankfurt this week
• London could be set for second biggest listing in its history
• Shein shoppers warned about phishing scam
• Rolex increases the cost of some watches - here's how much one will set you back

Essential reads

• Your rights when deliveries or returns don't arrive - and why leaving instructions could jeopardise them
• What happens to our brains when we shop?
• Think twice before buying your holiday clothes from Zara
• Where is all the money going? Here's who is really responsible for concert tickets going crazy
• 'A truck unloaded a £600 car that her son bought on eBay thinking it was a toy' - the schoolgate stories that led to GoHenry
• Best of the Money blog - an archive

Ask a question or make a comment

Virgin Atlantic has launched the first flight of its new service from Manchester to Las Vegas today. 

It makes Manchester Airport the only place outside of London to offer direct flights to America's west coast. 

Virgin Atlantic already has a daily connection to Sin City from London Heathrow, but launched the new route to support strong customer demand in the North West. 

It marks the airline's fourth service from Manchester to the US, building on established services of Orlando, New York and Atlanta. 

"Few places sum up the glitz and glamour of international travel like Las Vegas. Giving passengers in the North the opportunity to fly there directly and experience everything it has to offer is a real game-changer," Chris Woodroofe, managing director at Manchester Airport said. 

The launch has been marked with showgirls joining the flight's cabin crew and welcoming flyers at the check-in desk. 

Flight VS85 on an A350-1000 departed Manchester Airport at 9.50am. 

Rolex has increased the price of some of its watches in the UK after the cost of gold surged. 

The leading luxury watch manufacturer has hiked some prices by as much as 4%. 

One of its most famous pieces, the Daytona chronograph, will now cost you £38,700 - up from £37,200. 

The price of a yellow golf GMT Master II has also increased from £34,000 to £35,400. 

That's according to information on its UK website, which is tracked by Bloomberg. 

Typically, Rolex raises prices for its watches annually in January.

It increased prices in the UK by about 4% for some models at that time but left US prices unchanged.

It comes after the price of gold reached record highs earlier this year, coming in at £1,932.44 per ounce in April. 

Increased prices isn't the only thing that makes buying a Rolex difficult, though. 

Despite high prices, waiting lists for them have been rising, according to Watches of Switzerland. 

Some waiting lists can be years long, which is part of the reason they are so exclusive.

So even if you have a spare £35,000, you might still find it difficult to actually get your hands on one. 

By Sarah Taaffe-Maguire , business reporter

Eyes were fixed on the London Stock Exchange today for detail on a company that isn't even listed. 

Chinese-founded fast fashion giant Shein is set to publicly list in London, according to Sky's Mark Kleinman , a move that would make it the most high-profile public flotation for more than a decade and the second biggest initial public offering (IPO) in the history of the London Stock Exchange.  

A company "floats" when it offers shares on a stock market - comes into public shareholder ownership from being private - with an IPO being the first time shares are publicly available for purchase. 

There was no update posted this morning, but an announcement could come later this week or month. 

Drugs company GSK is the worst performer of the morning with its share price down 9.4% following news it will face jury trials in claims by thousands of people with cancer who say a heartburn drug it developed, Zantac, caused their illness.

Sterling buys €1.1714, down from the 19-month high of last week. Another high could be reached as the European Central Bank will likely cut interest rates on Thursday. One pound equals $1.2732.

A barrel of Brent crude, the benchmark oil price, is $81.43, low by the standards of the past three months. 

GameStop shares have surged after a Reddit account that drove the 2021 meme stock mania shared its position in the video game retailer. 

The chain's shares were 90% higher at $46 each as of 9.11am after Keith Gill, who goes by DeepF------Value on Reddit and Roaring Kitty on YouTube and X, reappeared online on Sunday night. 

He posted a screenshot of what appeared to be his portfolio holding a significant amount of GameStop common shares and call options. 

Reminder: A call option is basically a contract which allows a buyer to purchase stock at a specific price until a certain date. 

The Reddit trading crowd's favourite trader holds five million shares of GameStop worth $115.7m as of Friday's closing price, according to the account screenshot. 

The account also showed a position of 120,000 call options in GameStop with a strike price of $20 that expire on 21 June that were purchased for about $5.68 each.

GameStop shares closed Friday at $23.14.

Mr Gill's first return to social media three weeks ago sparked an eye-popping rally in GameStop with shares more than doubling in May alone.

At the time, he simply posted a picture of a man in a chair leaning forward, but that was enough to trigger a buying frenzy among amateur traders.

The investor was a former marketer for Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance.

In 2021, through YouTube videos and Reddit posts, he encouraged a band of retail traders to squeeze out short selling hedge funds in GameStop.

The action got so wild at one point that brokers had to restrict trading in the stock as it blew up their clearing house margin.

By Katie Williams , Money team

We've all learned how to be more conservative with our money amid an increase in the cost of living - but it's still important to treat ourselves now and again.

And there's some science behind that happy feeling you get when you make a new purchase, as  consumer psychologist Dr Cathrine Jansson-Boyd  explains in the first of four features on the psychology of shopping running this week.

What happens to our brains?

When we buy something, our brain releases endorphins and dopamine. Such a release can give us a sense of pleasure, albeit momentarily, Dr Jansson-Boyd says.

You might be more likely to continue buying things if you think that temporary feeling of pleasure is important, she adds, though she notes for some even just the experience of shopping can trigger the dopamine, without anything being bought.

Buying sale items increases dopamine

Dr Jansson-Boyd says purchasing items at a reduced price can increase your dopamine level.

When shoppers see a product they like with a price they perceive as "fair", they experience a level of satisfaction in the part of the brain associated with the anticipation of pleasure, she explains.

However, if the price is perceived as "unfair", the insula - a part of the brain that registers pain - is typically activated.

The negative impact of dopamine

It's also important to note dopamine can have negative influence on spending behaviours, Dr Jansson-Boyd says. 

For example, when buying chocolates, the release of dopamine generates what can be thought of as a reward-seeking loop. 

This means that a person experiences repeated craving of a dopamine rush and repeatedly buys chocolates to experience the dopamine rush. This can lead to unwanted spending. 

"As you can imagine, such 'craving' can also lead to fairly serious consequences if the spending is done on gambling or drugs," she adds.

So are there 'healthier' alternatives to get that release? 

As Dr Jansson-Boyd mentioned previously, window shopping can trigger a surge of dopamine without you needing to buy anything.

Other non-shopping activities such as eating healthily and listening to your favourite music can also trigger a similar release, she says.

Can you get out of chasing the dopamine rush? 

Being aware is a good start, says Dr Jansson-Boyd, as it may "put the brakes on the shopping".

But she notes that if the chasing of dopamine becomes an obsession, then seeking professional help is best as the consequences can be "serious".

"However, if it is not of a serious nature then training yourself to think pragmatically about the shopping helps. 

"For example, if you find that you are keen on 'special offers', then make sure you are equipped with information about whether you are getting a genuine bargain," she says.

She also recommends taking a step back, going for a cup of tea or visiting another shop every time you see something you want to buy.

Dr Jansson-Boyd says: "If you still want to go back to the item, perhaps you really do want it. However, in many cases you will find that you forget about it entirely or that you are not that fussed."

Coming up in this series:

• Tuesday: The five different types of shopping addiction
• Wednesday: 'I was an addict - I ended up in £40,000 of debt'
• Thursday: The techniques big brands use to get us buying more, more, more

Every Monday we get an expert to answer your money problems or consumer disputes. Find out how to submit yours at the bottom of this post. Today's question is...

I purchased two pairs of shorts from Nike a year ago. I shortly after returned them for a refund as they didn't suit me. Nike are saying I can't be refunded due to them not receiving the returned items. Even though I have supplied the Royal Mail proof of postage. Lee F

Scott Dixon, from The Complaints Resolver , says Lee is very unlikely to get a positive outcome in this case.

"The problem is that you have left it so long to resolve the issue. It's highly unlikely (virtually impossible) this can be resolved for that reason - you cannot leave a complaint on missing goods in transit for a year and expect a remedy."

Though there's unlikely to be a positive resolution here, delivery issues are common – so Scott has walked us through people's basic rights when things go missing…

Your contract is always with the retailer, not the courier firm, to ensure that your order is safely delivered, says Scott. If it hasn't turned up, the first thing you need to do is to contact the retailer. 

"It is their legal responsibility to make sure the item is safely delivered to you under the Consumer Rights Act 2015. They should contact the courier – who they've entered a contract with - and let you know what has happened to your item.

"S29 (2) of the Consumer Rights Act 2015 states the goods remain at the trader's risk until they come into the physical possession of the consumer, or a person identified by the consumer, to take possession of the goods."

The retailer can either refund you or rearrange for the goods to be delivered, says Scott.

If this doesn't work, raise a chargeback with your bank or credit card provider within 120 days of your purchase or payment to get a refund.

"You need to push hard on chargebacks and cite 'breach of contract' under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, as chargebacks are often rejected on the first attempt," says Scott.

"Your bank or credit card provider will reverse the payment and give the retailer an opportunity to present their case.

"Retailers don't like dealing with chargebacks as they are problematic and costly to resolve."

What if you leave delivery instructions?

This could see you lose all rights.

Scott explains: "If you give specific instructions to the retailer for the item to be left in the porch, 'leave in shed at rear' or another designated safe place, and it is stolen, then you are responsible because the retailer and courier have simply followed your instructions."

You have a 14-day cooling off period for all non-bespoke items under the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013.

Scott says: "A retailer will usually provide a returns label or a website link to their returns policy, and give instructions for you to return goods. Usually a retailer will engage a courier firm for returns - be it Royal Mail, DHL etc etc."

This often involves dropping the item off at a local convenience store, where labels are scanned.

"Convenience stores often say you will get a receipt by email. This isn't always the case, leaving you high and dry if the goods go missing in transit," warns Scott.

To protect yourself, Scott says you should follow the policy courier firms use when they deliver goods to you: take a photo of the goods at the point of handover and insist on a receipt. 

"This is your proof if you need to dispute lost goods in transit," he says.

"The retailer will push back in these cases when goods are lost in transit with a fob off saying it's not their fault and the responsibility lies with the courier, which is blatantly untrue."

Scott says the retailer engaged the courier firm to safely return the goods and the Consumer Rights Act 2015 applies. 

"Remember, your contract is with the retailer – you're following their return instructions. So this is on them.

"You need to push hard on this and cite 'breach of contract' under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 to get a full refund.

"If you hit a brick wall, simply raise a chargeback with your bank or credit card provider and cite 'breach of contract' under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 to dispute the transaction."

As a last resort you can take your case to the Small Claims Court in England and Wales - or use the respective legal routes in Scotland and Northern Ireland .

What if a company doesn't provide specific returns instructions?

Your contract is then with the courier - but much of the above still applies with them. S49 Consumer Rights Act 2015 states that every contract to supply a service is to be treated as including a term that the trader must perform the service with reasonable care and skill.

Sky News contacted Nike for comment.

This feature is not intended as financial advice - the aim is to give an overview of the things you should think about.  Submit your dilemma or consumer dispute via:

• The form above - you need to leave a phone number or email address so we can contact you for further details
• Email [email protected] with the subject line "Money blog"
• WhatsApp us  here

Interest rates are likely to be cut in the eurozone this week despite inflation accelerating in May.

The European Central Bank is expected to move on Thursday, before both the US Fed and the Bank of England.

The decision is important for mortgage holders and savers - and potentially holidaymakers - in the UK because the country doesn't exist in an economic bubble.

Markets currently expect the BoE to wait until August or September - but what happens on Thursday could shift that.

Laith Khalaf, head of investment analysis at AJ Bell, explained earlier this year: "There is some safety in numbers for central banks, because of the exchange rate effects of pulling away from the herd. Cutting rates too far ahead of others can lead to currency weakness, and additional inflationary pressure as a result. 

"Leaving it too late can do unnecessary financial damage to the domestic economy."

As Mr Khalaf suggests, if the BoE doesn't quickly follow it may be good for UK holidaymakers, who could find their pound buys more should the euro endure a period of weakness.

The main ECB rate is currently 4% - and a cut is still widely anticipated despite inflation accelerating from 2.4% to 2.6% last month.

ECB officials have warned of an uneven path back to the target of 2% inflation. 

Interest rates are kept high to encourage saving over spending - when this happens, price rises tend to slow.

In the UK, the base rate has been kept at a 16-year high of 5.25% since last autumn - though inflation is now at 2.3%, within touching distance of target.

The next rate decision here is on 20 June.

If there is a surprise in Frankfurt this week, it would likely have a negative impact on the market and perhaps set back expectations of a BoE cut.

Shoppers at Shein are being warned of a new phishing scam that threatens their personal information and money.

The scam sees customers receive an email that offers them a Shein mystery box and encourages them click on a link to claim their prize.

However, clicking on the link takes users to a fake site which allows cyber criminals to gain access to personal details. 

Marc Porcar, CEO of QR Code Generator, has warned shoppers: "Whilst Shein does offer legitimate mystery boxes during promotions or special events, the way to know if they are legitimate is to recognise the website you are directed to.

"The website you are directed to by scammers mimics Shein's, and the obvious way to indicate this is the URL, which is different from the official website."

How can you spot a fake Shein website?

• The domain name for Shein is shein.com and any variations to this should be considered untrustworthy. You should also make sure the site has "https" URLs and lock icons;
• Check for a legitimate contact page with company addresses, customer service numbers and employee information;
• Search for online reviews of the website from a trusted independent source;
• Pay attention to images edited poorly as Shein uses professional photography for all of its products;
• Be cautious of prices that seem more than 50% lower than Shein's real pricing;
• Look out for spelling and grammar errors throughout the site.

We're back for another week of consumer news, personal finance tips and all the latest on the economy.

This is how the week in the Money blog is shaping up...

Monday: This week's Money Problem is from a reader who says Nike are refusing to refund him on two pairs of shorts - he's been told they never arrived back, yet says he has proof of postage.

Tuesday : We're continuing our new Women in Business  feature - interviewing women who are bossing their industry. And this week's  Basically...  explains everything you need to know about student finance.

Wednesday : The new King Charles III banknotes come into circulation - and we have another top chef picking their best Cheap Eats,  this week from Warwickshire.

Thursday : The ECB is widely expected to cut interest rates in the eurozone. Here in Money,  Savings Champion  founder Anna Bowes will be back with her weekly insight into the savings market.

Friday : We'll have everything you need to know about the mortgage market this week with the guys from Moneyfacts.

Running every weekday, Money features a morning markets round-up from the  Sky News business team  and regular updates and analysis from our business, City and economic correspondents, editors and presenters -  Ed Conway ,  Mark Kleinman ,  Ian King ,  Paul Kelso  and  Adele Robinson .

You'll also be able to stream  Business Live with Ian King on weekdays at 11.30am and 4.30pm.

Bookmark  news.sky.com/money  and check back from 8am, and through the day, each weekday.

The Money team is Bhvishya Patel, Jess Sharp, Katie Williams, Brad Young and Ollie Cooper, with sub-editing by Isobel Souster. The blog is edited by Jimmy Rice.

Spending a fair chunk on going to see your favourite big artist is not new - but it certainly feels like concert prices have entered a new stratosphere.

Fans of Bruce Springsteen have paid upwards of £120 for "rear pitch" standing tickets for his May 2024 tour, while some expressed disappointment recently over the £145 price tag of standing tickets for Billie Eilish's 2025 UK leg.

And while you could have nabbed Beyonce or Taylor Swift tickets in the UK for £50 (before fees) if you took a "nosebleed" seat, these had limited availability and quickly sold out. General admission standing tickets for Swift's Eras tour - which comes to the UK next week - started at £110.40 and those at the front had to shell out £172.25. It didn't stop there - by the time many fans got to the front of the online ticket queue, the only tickets left cost upwards of £300.

So what's behind rising ticket costs? These are some of the reasons...

Fans willing to pay for big spectacles

Simply put, ticket prices would come down if people voted with their feet.

Matt Hanner, booking agent and operations director at Runway, said prices at the top level had "risen considerably" - but the increase was partly being driven by demand.

"We're seeing a lot more stadium shows, greenfield, outdoor festival-type shows which are now a staple of towns around the country," he said.

"There's a growing number of people that are happy to spend a large chunk of their disposable income on going to a major music event."

Jon Collins, chief executive of LIVE, the trade body representing the UK's live music industry, had a similar view.

He said there were more large-scale shows and tours now than ever, and there was "massive appetite" among music lovers for "bigger spectacles".

Fancy shows mean higher costs - with staffing, the price of the venue, transport, artists' needs, insurance and loads more to factor in.

Of course, all these things are affected by inflation. Collins said ticket prices also factored in the rising costs that had hit every venue from the grassroots scene to major arenas.

"You've got a couple of different factors - you've got the spectacle of the show and the production cost and everything that goes into the ticket price. But then you've also got the fundamentals," he said.

The cost of venue hire has increased "significantly" in the past couple of years due to electricity and gas price rises, he added.

"You've got the increase in the cost of people… very justifiable costs like increases in minimum wage and living wage. At every stage of the process we've got these cost increases that will all push through the pressure on the ticket price."

Are artists being greedy?

How much money artists really earn off live touring is of interest to many - but the music industry is generally reluctant to release details.

The people we spoke to suggested it was not as simple as artist greed because, as we mentioned earlier, there's a lot to pay for before anything reaches their bank accounts.

The Guardian spoke to anonymous insiders about this topic in 2017. Its report suggested that between 50-70% of gross earnings were left for promoters and artists. The piece also cited a commonly quoted figure that the promoter takes 15% of what is left and the act will get 85%.

It all depends on the calibre of the artist and how much work the promoter has had to put in - they could end up with a bigger share if it was a hard push to get the show sold.

The people we spoke to said music acts and their teams would discuss the ticket price, and the bigger the act, the more sway they have - but it's ultimately set by the promoter.

Taylor Swift - arguably the biggest popstar on the planet right now - is personally earning between $10m and $13m (£8m - £10.5m) on every stop of her Eras Tour, according to Forbes. She is reported to take home a whopping 85% of  all revenue  from the tour.

But it's worth pointing out, too, that she's been known to be generous with her cash, having given $100,000 bonuses to the dozens of lorry drivers working on the tour.

What have other artists said? 

Some artists have been critical of the high ticket prices being demanded by others.

Tom Grennan told ITV two years ago that he had seen "loads of artists putting tickets out that are way too expensive for the times that we are in", adding that he wanted people to enjoy shows without worrying if they could pay their bills.

Singer-songwriter Paul Heaton was also praised for capping ticket prices for his tour with Jacqui Heaton at £30 in a bid to tackle music industry "greed" and help people during the cost of living.

British star Yungblud recently announced his own music festival, Bludfest - saying the industry was too expensive and needed to be "shaken up".

"I believe that gigs are too expensive, festivals are too expensive, and I just wanted to work to create something that has been completely done by me," he told Sky News.

Meanwhile, frequent Swift collaborator Jack Antonoff has said "dynamic pricing" by ticket sale sites such as Ticketmaster was also an issue when it came to cost.

He told Stereogum that he wanted artists to be able to opt out of the system - which basically means ticket prices increase when a show is in demand - and be able to sell them at the price they choose.

On its website, Ticketmaster describes its "Platinum" tickets as those that have their price adjusted according to supply and demand.

It says the goal of the dynamic pricing system is to "give fans fair and safe access to the tickets, while enabling artists and other people involved in staging live events to price tickets closer to their true market value".

The company claims it is artists, their teams and promoters who set pricing and choose whether dynamic pricing is used for their shows.

Ticketing website fees

As well as dynamic pricing, "sneaky" fees by online ticket sites are also causing issues for live music lovers, according to the consumer champion Which?.

A report from the group last month said an array of fees that isn't seen until checkout can add around 20% to the cost of concert and festival tickets.

Which? has urged a crackdown on the "bewildering" extra charges, which include booking, "delivery" and "transaction" fees, venue charges and sometimes charges for e-tickets.

The Cure lead singer Robert Smith tweeted that he was "sickened" after fans complained last year about processing fees  on Ticketmaster that wound up costing more than the ticket itself in some cases.

Responding to the Which? findings, Ticketmaster (which was far from the only company named) said: "Fees are typically set by and shared with our clients… who all invest their skill, resource and capital into getting an event off the ground. Ticketmaster supports legislation that requires all-in pricing across the industry."

Live Nation and Ticketmaster sued over 'dominance'

The US government is suing Ticketmaster owner Live Nation over allegations the company is "monopolising" the live events industry.

Justice department officials said it was unfair for the firm to control around 70% of primary ticketing for concerts in America. 

Live Nation has been accused of using lengthy contracts to prevent venues from choosing rival ticket companies, blocking venues from using multiple ticket sellers and threatening venues that they could lose money and support if Ticketmaster wasn't the chosen seller.

Live Nation said the lawsuit reflected a White House that had turned over competition enforcement "to a populist urge that simply rejects how antitrust law works".

"Some call this 'anti-monopoly', but in reality it is just anti-business," it said.

And it said its share of the market had been shrinking and its profit margin of 1.4% was the "opposite of monopoly power".

The lawsuit "won't solve the issues fans care about relating to ticket prices, service fees and access to in-demand shows", the company said.

"We will defend against these baseless allegations, use this opportunity to shed light on the industry and continue to push for reforms that truly protect consumers and artists."

As well as reportedly controlling most of the ticketing market, Live Nation also owns and represents some acts and venues.

Canadian artist Dan Mangan told Moneywise this was enabling the company to take "more and more of the pie".

He said when venue rent, equipment and other costs were taken into account, lesser known artists could take as little as 20% of ticket sales.

Another major cost on tickets in the UK is VAT (value added tax).

At 20%, it's pretty hefty. It was brought down to 5% and then 12.5% as the live music industry was hampered by COVID, but returned to the pre-pandemic level in April 2022.

The charge puts the UK "out of step" with other countries, Collins said.

"In competitive major markets like France, it's 5%. Germany it's 7%, Italy it's 10%. Sales tax in the US is typically 6% or 7%. So we are significantly out of step with other markets when it comes to how much VAT we charge on tickets," he said.

Touring now bigger source of income for major stars

With the decline of physical products and the rise of subscription listening, artists are earning less from making music - and income from live shows has become more important for the biggest stars.

Writer and broadcaster Paul Stokes said major stars who would have toured infrequently in the past were now willing to put on more shows as it becomes increasingly profitable.

Some artists will even pencil in multiple nights at huge venues like Wembley Arena, he said - something that wouldn't have been considered two decades ago.

"When Wembley was built and they said 'we'll be doing regular shows' you'd think 'are there acts big enough to fill this massive stadium?'

"It's become absolutely part of the live calendar that artists will come and play not just one night at Wembley, but two or three every every summer."

Stokes said this demand has also prompted the scale of shows that we've become used to seeing, featuring expensive production and pyrotechnics.

Not being felt evenly

While a night out seeing a platinum-selling artist is likely to be an expensive affair, industry figures are also keen to point out that the escalation in ticket prices isn't necessarily happening at a lower level.

Collins said that while major stars were putting on arena shows, there would be plenty of other live music taking place at the same time, "from the free pub gig to the £10 ticket at the grassroots venue, to the £30 mid-cap".

"There's an absolute range of opportunities for people to experience live music, from free through to experiencing the biggest stars on the planet," he said.

But concertgoers choosing to save their cash for artists they're more familiar with may have led to a "suppression" of prices for lesser-known acts, Hanner noted.

"Everyone's short of disposable income because there's a cost of living crisis. [Artists' and promoters'] core costs are going up as well, so it's more expensive for everyone. That fear of pricing people out is just being compounded," he said.

"I think [that] has definitely led to prices being suppressed [at the lower level], when really they should have been going up."

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