The rise in solo travel: Why you should book your next holiday ALONE
SOLO travel is the top trend for 2017 - so why has it become so popular?
Once upon a time travelling solo was reserved for backpackers roughing it around the globe.
Fast forward to 2017 and it appears everybody will be doing it.
Or at least half. A recent survey by BookYogaRetreats.com found 51 per cent of people will be taking their next holiday alone.
It’s a trend appealing to all age groups and applying to all corners of the planet.
According to the founders of new solo travel app Zipskee, this newfound popularity is thanks to information access and the chance to experience uninterrupted personal growth.
Zipskee CEO Evan Hung said: “There's something very special about connecting with people on a one-on-one basis while exploring the world.
“People become the best version of themselves when they travel alone — they're more willing to try new things, let their walls down and push their boundaries.”
Mr Hung said the world is far more accommodating for solo travellers than it has ever been.
Safety precautions to take before you go on holiday
He explained: “20 years ago, one would have a much harder time figuring out the weather, where to stay, what foods to eat, or how to get around.
“Nowadays, we have access to a wealth of knowledge and can prepare as much as we'd like for our trips.
“Though it may be a bit intimidating, solo travel is a great way to immerse oneself in an environment, connect with culture and make lasting memories.”
Going it alone has the added benefit of gaining total control over your valuable holiday time.
Mr Hung said: “The beauty of solo travel is that you have the freedom to go wherever you'd like and do whatever makes you happy.”
If you’re a first timer, a good foray into the world of solo travel is to book with a tour company.
Once you’ve done it with an organised group, it will be far easier to organise the next one all on your own.
It's also important to have organised documents and printed copies of all your bookings.
Make sure your passport has the correct validity date for the country you're visiting and that it's got at least a few blank pages.
Popular destinations to go on a holiday alone include New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Thailand, Vietnam and Costa Rica.
For holidays closer to home, Norway, Austria, Sweden and Switzerland prove perfectly accommodating.
