Going It Alone: Kensington Reports 22% Jump in Solo Travel Bookings

Solo travel is on the rise, with Kensington reporting a 22% year-over-year increase in bookings.

Ahead of Singles' Day on November 11, the private guided tour operator has released new booking data showing solo travel is one of its fastest-growing segments, expanding at more than twice the rate of other travellers.

Asia and the South Pacific are seeing particularly strong demand, with solo bookings to Asia increasing 39% and bookings to Australia and the Pacific climbing 53%.

"Solo travel is increasingly about choice and the freedom to experience the world exactly as you want to," said Helen Giontsis, President of Kensington.

"We're seeing travelers who are confident about pursuing their interests, whether that's exploring a new culture, experiencing extraordinary wildlife or finally taking a trip they've dreamed about for years. With a privately guided journey, they can enjoy the independence of traveling alone while benefiting from the knowledge, personal attention, and support of local experts. It's an ideal combination of freedom and peace of mind."

Where Solo Travellers Are Heading

According to Kensington, destinations offering cultural experiences, wildlife encounters and opportunities for independent exploration are attracting growing interest.

Among the itineraries the company is highlighting for solo travellers are:

• Thailand: The nine-day Thai Treasures: North & South itinerary includes Bangkok's temples and royal landmarks, Chiang Mai's markets and food scene, a visit to an elephant sanctuary and time in Phuket, including a private longtail boat excursion in Phang Nga Bay.
• Australia: The Sydney, Rock & Reef Explorer combines visits to Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef, with opportunities to learn about Aboriginal culture and snorkel along the reef.
• India: The Essential India: Golden Triangle Tour visits Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, with experiences ranging from a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal to exploring Old Delhi's spice markets and participating in a traditional block-printing workshop.
• Indonesia: The 12-day Islands and Jungles: Best of Bali & Lombok itinerary includes temple visits, cooking classes, cycling through rural villages and a private catamaran excursion to the Gili Islands.

Independence Without Going It Completely Alone

Kensington says privately guided travel offers an alternative for solo travellers who want independence without having to manage every aspect of a trip themselves.

Its customized itineraries allow travellers to determine their own schedules and interests, while private guides, drivers and 24/7 in-destination support provide assistance throughout the journey.

“The rise in solo travel reflects a shift in how people are thinking about travel. They're no longer willing to put off a bucket-list experience simply because they don't have someone to go with,” said Jessica Vandermey, Regional VP, Sales, Kensington.

“Having traveled solo extensively throughout Asia myself, I know how rewarding it can be to explore a destination on your own terms. There's a real sense of freedom in following your own interests, setting your own pace and being open to experiences you might not otherwise have considered. And with the support of knowledgeable local guides, you can enjoy that independence without having to navigate everything on your own.”

For travel advisors, the growth points to opportunities to serve clients who may be travelling independently but still want personalized itineraries, local expertise and support.

Kensington's latest figures suggest that, for a growing number of travellers, waiting for someone else to be available is no longer a reason to postpone a trip.

More information is available at kensingtontours.com.

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