How to never feel lonely when traveling alone: our expert reveals her ultimate guide to where you'll be most welcome, avoiding shady characters - and how not to get charged fraudulent singles surcharges.
More of us than ever are going solo. Last year, the number of people traveling alone increased by 45 percent, according to research by ABTA (formerly the Association of British Travel Agents). In addition, tour operators are increasingly becoming aware that it is not allowed to charge absurd individual surcharges.
Personally, I visited 15 countries out of mine, nine of which I visited during a six-month career break, enjoying the freedom and meeting lots of interesting new people - something that is much easier, I found, when I I'm solo.
It's not all sunshine in paradise. From illness to shady characters, safety concerns (especially for women), lonely moments and missed connections, there is no shortage of pitfalls. Yet, with good street knowledge and planning, none of this should stop you.
So here is our expert guide…
NEW ZEALAND: THE BEST FOR THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Peaceful New Zealand offers amazing biodiversity. Hop on guided buses to meet new people and explore the rolling green hills of the North Island or be dazzled by the spectacular landscapes of the South Island, from gigantic glaciers to snow-capped mountain passes and fjords.
Highlight: See giant sperm whales at Kaikoura, home of sacred Maori legend.
How to do it: A 17-night stay 'New Zealand Explorer' Over-50s Tour (
More of us than ever are going solo. Last year, the number of people traveling alone increased by 45 percent, according to research by ABTA (formerly the Association of British Travel Agents). In addition, tour operators are increasingly becoming aware that it is not allowed to charge absurd individual surcharges.
Personally, I visited 15 countries out of mine, nine of which I visited during a six-month career break, enjoying the freedom and meeting lots of interesting new people - something that is much easier, I found, when I I'm solo.
It's not all sunshine in paradise. From illness to shady characters, safety concerns (especially for women), lonely moments and missed connections, there is no shortage of pitfalls. Yet, with good street knowledge and planning, none of this should stop you.
So here is our expert guide…
NEW ZEALAND: THE BEST FOR THE GREAT OUTDOORS Peaceful New Zealand offers amazing biodiversity. Hop on guided buses to meet new people and explore the rolling green hills of the North Island or be dazzled by the spectacular landscapes of the South Island, from gigantic glaciers to snow-capped mountain passes and fjords.
Highlight: See giant sperm whales at Kaikoura, home of sacred Maori legend.
How to do it: A 17-night stay 'New Zealand Explorer' Over-50s Tour (
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