Solo Travel for Women: Embrace the Adventure
Navigating Unfamiliar Cultures and Languages
Trying to understand the language and cultural differences of a foreign country can be one of the most intimidating parts of travel. Do you find yourself worrying about how you’d manage these challenges on your own? While tools like Google Translate can be handy for the language gap, they rely on phone coverage and can’t always guide you through the subtle cultural nuances that make travel both enriching and complex. If you have travelled in the past with a partner or group these moments would have been slightly easier, but going solo means figuring it all out on your own—and that can feel extremely overwhelming.
Maximizing Value Without Hidden Costs
Planning a holiday as a solo traveller can come with some hidden cost concerns that might leave you feeling uneasy. Are you paying more simply for travelling alone, especially with accommodations based on twin-share rates? Do you end up shouldering the full cost of taxis or other transportation? Or, when you sit down for a meal, does the idea of buying an entire bottle of wine—without someone to share it—seem off-putting? Even tipping as a solo guest can feel tricky, and all these extra expenses quickly add up. Does managing these unknowns add stress to your holiday planning?
Seeking Deeper Connections Through Travel
Even if you’ve conquered the practical hurdles of solo travel mentioned above, there’s still one essential ingredient that can make or break a journey, and that is connection. Experiencing new cultures, breathtaking sights, and memorable moments is rewarding, but sharing these moments with others can bring an entirely different level of fulfilment to your journey, and that is not always easy as a solo traveller. Who’s there to chat over an unforgettable meal, or to snap a photo when a selfie just won’t do? For solo travellers, finding these companions along the way can be challenging—where do those friends come from when you’re setting off on your own?
Avoiding Overwhelming Planning Stress
The simplest way to sidestep the overwhelming stress of holiday planning is to let someone else handle it! Choose tour companies that take care of everything for you, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey. While this may not always be the cheapest option, the peace of mind and stress-free experience will be worth it.
With this in mind, it pays to consider working with a trusted travel agent to handle extras not included in your tour package/s, such as flights, additional accommodation, and travel insurance, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Additionally, look for companies that provide comprehensive information about your destination ahead of time, such as tips, currency, language, and telecommunications.
Navigating Unfamiliar Cultures and Languages
Opt for tours led by a local accredited guide who accompanies your group throughout the entire journey.
A guide who is with you every step of the way opens the door to deeper insights, allowing you to ask questions that may arise in everyday situations—whether it’s deciphering a road sign, understanding local attire, or learning about customs surrounding festivals and religious events.
These local guides are hidden gems in the travel experience, not only providing the history and culture of your destination, but they are also an invaluable aid in translation, should you be travelling in a non-English speaking country.
Maximising Value without Hidden Costs
Travelling as a solo traveller often comes with a higher price tag, as many companies understandably impose a single supplement because accommodation costs don’t significantly change whether there are one or two people in a room. Choose a company where this charge is clear and transparent either on their website or in communication with them. It is also important the company is clear regarding the configuration of rooms for solo travellers, ie will you have your own private room?
Choose tours that offer transparent pricing and clearly outline value-added extras, detailing what is and isn’t included in the package. This includes essential information such as airport transfers, meals, and other incidentals.
Additionally, inquire about airport transfer options; some companies may facilitate shared transfers with fellow travellers in your group, helping to reduce costs.
Real Voices: Journeys of Discovery
Every travel story is as unique as the individual who experiences it. In this section, we hear directly from three remarkable women (I have used fictional names to protect privacy) who have embraced the adventure of solo travel. They share their personal reflections on the challenges they faced, the joys they discovered, and how a thoughtfully designed tour transformed their journeys into unforgettable experiences. Their voices remind us that solo travel isn’t about going it alone—it’s about finding connection, confidence, and inspiration along the way.
"I have only ever been on two tours, and on the first one, I was the only solo traveller. All the others were couples except for two single women who just happened to be sisters! While everyone was very friendly and welcoming I did sometimes feel out of place, especially when we had non-group mealtimes. My fellow travellers kept telling me how brave I was to travel by myself. Probably a kind way of telling me I didn’t quite fit in. In contrast, the second tour had a wonderful mix of solo travellers, which made the atmosphere inclusive and easygoing."
For Julie, two things stood out as being essential for a positive solo travel experience:
Having a significant number of other solo travellers made her feel part of a community while still giving her the freedom to explore on her own terms.
Having most evening meals be group events rather than “on your own”, as we know, evening meals are longer and can often be awkward on your own. A great meal is more enjoyable when you have company, and goodness knows, on the second tour, we had some GREAT meals!
And, finally, I just can’t share a hotel room, by going solo, I can sleep late, go to bed early, and get up in the middle of the night without disturbing anyone else." The last tour I did provided ample opportunities for interaction with knowledgeable, like-minded people, but also allowed us free time to explore independently. For example, in Carcassonne, I could take my time and move at my own pace without worrying about holding anyone back. Having a single room ensured my privacy when I needed to be alone."
Amy’s experience underscores how carefully designed tours can support both the desire for connection and the need for personal space, a combination that resonates deeply with many solo travellers.
Sharon’s experience highlights a common theme for solo travellers—the apprehension over single supplements combined with the need for space to unwind. Her positive outlook and willingness to embrace solo travel demonstrate how a thoughtfully organized tour can alleviate concerns and open the door to fulfilling independent experiences.
Sharon’s journey, like that of Julie and Amy, is a testament to the unique joys and challenges of travelling solo, and how finding the right tour can make all the difference.
Comprehensive Travel Prep
We equip you with detailed itineraries, handy travel tips, and essential country-specific information, including currency, phone requirements, and more, so you can step into your adventure with confidence.
Dedicated Support Every Step of the Way
Your Tour Manager is there to handle the details and provide personal assistance throughout the journey. Need help in an emergency? You’ll have their contact information on hand from the beginning.
Peace of Mind in Every Stay
We carefully select reputable accommodations, ensuring you feel safe and comfortable. Want a preview? We’re happy to share the details so you can see for yourself.
A Solo-Friendly Experience
We believe your room should be your sanctuary. That’s why every solo traveller enjoys a private room—no matchmaking or shared spaces. Plus, our transparent pricing ensures you know exactly what to expect, with no surprises.
Kick Off with a Meet & Greet
Every tour begins with a casual and fun Meet & Greet. It’s the perfect opportunity to laugh, relax, and enjoy a glass of wine as we set the stage for an incredible journey together.
Dine Together, Laugh Together
Our itineraries include plenty of shared meals, with over half of your dinners enjoyed as a group. These moments around the table are often highlights of the trip, filled with laughter, stories, and delicious food.
All this confirms that embarking on a solo journey is a courageous and deeply rewarding endeavour, and with the right planning and support, it can be an experience that enriches both your life and your perspective. At Plantagenet Discoveries, our tours naturally attract solo travellers, fostering a sense of community and connection that ensures you’ll never feel out of place. Instead, you’ll be part of a group ready to share in the joy of discovery, making every moment unforgettable.
Ready to embrace the adventure of a lifetime? Don’t wait—reach out today! We have two exciting departures planned for July 2025: one through the timeless landscapes of England and another exploring the heart of France. Make your travel dreams a reality, let’s connect now. It’s a decision you won’t regret!
Max
All photos - © Plantagenet Discoveries