Why I Recommend Touring for Solo Travellers (and Why It Still Counts as Solo Travel)

There was a time when the words “coach trip” or “group tour” conjured up images of beige slacks, bingo nights, and sightseeing through a steamed-up window.

And I’ll be honest — back when I first started working in travel, group trips had a reputation for being rigid and uninspiring — a last resort for those who didn’t want to organise things themselves. They were seen as the 'easy' option. Not real travel. Certainly not adventurous.

But oh, how times have changed.

Today, you can tour from pole to pole in a group. There are walking holidays in the Himalayas, food and wine journeys through Italy, cultural tours in Morocco, small group safaris, women-only expeditions… and everything in between.

And while some people still think that joining a group somehow disqualifies them from being a “true” solo traveller — I believe the opposite is true. Travelling solo means choosing what you want. And for many of us, especially women, it means finding a way to travel that feels safe, supported, and still free.

Safety, Support & Serendipity

Travelling alone can be exhilarating — but let’s not pretend it’s always easy. From navigating unfamiliar airports to working out public transport, to dining alone in a busy restaurant… there are moments when you just want someone by your side. Group tours offer exactly that — without taking away your independence.

You still get to choose when to engage and when to retreat. You can wander through a market with a new friend one day, and explore a museum at your own pace the next. There’s always someone to ask for help, someone to eat dinner with, someone to laugh with when the wi-fi won’t work or your suitcase takes a wrong turn.

And let’s not forget — for many of us, especially as we get older, safety and comfort become more important. That doesn’t mean we’ve lost our spark or our curiosity — it just means we’re wise enough to know what we need in order to feel free.

You're Still Travelling Solo (and That’s the Magic)

When you travel with a group, you might not be alone — but you're still travelling independently.

You're the one who said yes to the trip.

You're the one who got on the plane.

You're the one who stepped out of your comfort zone.

And often, you're not the only one doing so.

I’ve met countless women over 50 who were nervous before their first group trip — only to return with lifelong friends, a thousand memories, and the confidence to plan the next one. For many, that first tour is the stepping stone to going even further. And for others? It becomes their favourite way to travel.

Both are equally valid.

Freedom With a Framework

What I’ve come to love about group travel is that it offers structure without rigidity. You’re free to be spontaneous — without the overwhelm of figuring everything out yourself. You can wake up knowing someone else has sorted the tickets, timed the transfers, and researched the best local lunch spots — all you have to do is show up (and maybe pack your sunhat). It’s liberating, really.

Group travel gives you the freedom to focus on what matters: experiencing the moment, soaking in the beauty, and maybe even surprising yourself along the way. The best tours give you flexibility, free time, and lots of thoughtful touches. You’ll often find solo time built into the itinerary, and if you don’t feel like joining the group for dinner one night? That’s okay too.

In fact, many of my favourite tour companies now offer solo room options, smaller group sizes, and local women-led experiences — all designed with female solo travellers in mind.

Choosing Your Dream Trip

One of the most beautiful things about travelling in a group is that you’re never really alone — but you’re never lost in a crowd, either. You get to feel held, supported, and part of something — while still being you.

And if you’re curious about what that could look like for you, I’ve handpicked some very special Dream Trips designed especially with solo women in mind.

These aren’t just tours — they’re journeys chosen for their warmth, connection, and ease. From walking holidays through flower-strewn meadows to cultural deep dives in Japan or Morocco, each one is crafted to give you the perfect blend of independence and companionship.

A Few Dream Trips to Inspire You

Whether you’re just starting to think about going solo or ready to tick off that once-in-a-lifetime adventure, here are three journeys I’ve chosen with different kinds of solo travellers in mind…

Easy & Enjoyable: Classical Spain for Solo Travellers – Andalucía Uncovered

Think warm sun, delicious tapas, and slow strolls through whitewashed villages. A perfect introduction to travelling solo — with company when you want it, and freedom when you need it.

Stepping Up the Adventure: Douro, Porto & Salamanca – A River Cruise for the Soul

Sail gently through Portugal’s wine country on a small river ship — no unpacking, just smooth days of sightseeing, local food, and connection.

Bold & Beautiful: In-depth Antarctica, Falklands & South Georgia Expedition

For the brave and curious soul. Raw, wild, extraordinary — this is the kind of trip that reminds you just how much wonder still exists in the world.

Final Thought

However you choose to travel — with a group, on a cruise, or setting off solo with your suitcase and a big brave heart — know that you have options. You don’t need to be fearless or figure it all out alone. You just need a starting point… and someone who believes you can do it.

Whether you choose solo travel or find yourself on such a path by circumstance, remember, within our Going Solo community, you are never truly alone. So, when you're ready to embark on your next adventure, do so with enthusiasm and the assurance that you are supported every step of the way. And if you're unsure what kind of travel would suit you, why not answer a few questions in my archetype quiz and find out!