Why Escorted Tours Are Perfect For Solo Travellers
Solo travel is increasing in popularity. ABTA data reveals that 16% of UK travellers went on holiday by themselves in the 12 months to August 2023. This compares to 11% during the previous 12 months. However, solo travel has its challenges, including safety concerns, language barriers and the potential for loneliness. This is where escorted tours come into play, offering a blend of independence and structured support, making them an ideal option for solo holidaymakers.
Meeting new people
One of the standout benefits of escorted tours for solo travellers is the chance to meet and connect with like-minded individuals. These tours attract people with similar interests, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. Whether it’s sharing stories over a group meal, bonding during guided excursions or simply travelling together, there are ample opportunities to form lasting friendships. This social aspect can transform a solo trip into a shared adventure, making the experience more enriching and enjoyable.
Insider access
By going on escorted tours you can gain access to experiences and insights that might be harder to obtain independently. For instance, expert guides bring destinations to life with their in-depth knowledge and local connections. This is particularly valuable in culturally rich and complex destinations such as India.
Escorted tours to India can offer an insider’s view of, say, the Taj Mahal, an immersive experience in the bustling markets of Jaipur or a serene boat ride through the backwaters of Kerala. These guides can open doors to exclusive sites and experiences, ensuring a deeper and more fulfillingunderstanding of your destination.
Overcoming language barriers
Language barriers can be a hurdle for solo travellers, potentially limiting their ability to fully engage with the local people and culture. Escorted tours mitigate this issue by providing guides who speak the local language and can assist with translations. This ensures that travellers can focus on the experience rather than worrying about communication. Whether it’s ordering a meal, asking for directions or casually conversing with locals, having a guide who can bridge the language gap makes your journey smoother and more enjoyable.
Extra experiences
Escorted tours from travel companies such as Jules Verne often include special experiences that solo travellers might find difficult to arrange on their own. These can range from private tours of popular attractions to unique cultural activities such as cooking classes, traditional performances or hands-on workshops. These curated experiences add depth to the trip and create lasting memories.
For example, a solo traveller on an escorted tour in Italy might enjoy a private wine tasting in Tuscany or a backstage tour of La Scala opera house in Milan, experiences that could be challenging to independently organise.
Safety and security
Safety is a primary concern for many solo travellers, especially for women, when exploring unfamiliar territories. Escorted tours provide a structured environment with a built-in support system, significantly reducing the risks associated with solo travel. Travellers benefit from the presence of experienced guides who are trained to handle emergencies and give assistance.
Additionally, being part of a group offers a sense of security, making it easier to explore and enjoy the journey without any back-of-your-mind worries. This peace of mind allows solo travellers to immerse themselves in every single experiencethey encounter.
