The world of travel is finally recognizing that not every tour, stateroom or hotel room should be based – or priced – as though two or more people are sharing. There are plenty of options available now for Solo Travelers to finally be able to enjoy the opportunity to explore the world! Let's have a closer look at some of these options...

Cruising – Historically cruising was enjoyed by couples and families, but more and more Solos are able to experience luxurious river cruises, expedition cruises, ocean cruises and so many other water-based holidays!

Long gone are the days where Solos had to pay double for a cabin on a cruise ship! Many cruise lines offer great options including, solo pricing and newly designed cabins, specifically built to comfortably accommodate one person and priced accordingly! Cozy common areas designed for socializing, making it easier to meet other Solos traveling on-board ship!

Hosted events such as mix-and-mingles are a great way to meet people and make new friends right away when you board the vessel. Watch for social gatherings scheduled throughout the cruise and announced on the ship's daily program. Once Solos get to know each other, they often make their own arrangements to dine together or participate in other activities and shared excursions! Some itineraries include on-board hosts, employed by the cruise line as ambassadors, congenial social gatherers, dining mates, even dance partners, who may also accompany Solos on shore excursions.

Smaller river cruises and expedition ships have fewer guests on-board which offers a more intimate experience. Solos are able to easily meet like-minded travelers with common interests during on-board lectures and shared shore excursions.

Upgraded meet-and-greet airport services allow you to start enjoying your vacation right away! You never have to worry about hauling your luggage from place to place or having to navigate an unfamiliar place alone...just look for the attendant holding a sign with your name on it!

Tours – Some tour companies offer to partner you up with a same-sex roommate to avoid having to pay a single supplement charge! If the tour company is not able to find you a roommate, you get to enjoy the room all to yourself at no additional cost. Many tours also offer a reduced solo rate or a smaller room option, so you can enjoy the privacy of your own room without having to pay more.

Tour groups don't necessarily have to be large either. Quite a few tours include less than 16 guests which allow for a more intimate and authentic experience taking you off-the-beaten path in lesser known areas and to more remote and exotic locations. You enjoy the comfort and security of a local guide that speaks the language along with “insider tips” that fully immerse you in the local culture and experience!

Some tours are exclusive to Solos, which means that everyone on tour is a Solo AND everyone gets their own room! Concerned that you may not enjoy vacationing with a group of strangers or that you may want some private time for yourself during your time away? No need to worry, there are plenty of opportunities for personal time or exploring on your own if you wish – even though you are part of a group of newly made travel friends, this is YOUR vacation to enjoy as you wish!

Resorts – Imagine a Caribbean holiday with no single supplement! Some resorts promote special weeks or programs designed specifically with Solos in mind including communal tables for meal sharing, free room service, cocktail parties and other social events to enjoy. Some offer solo parents reduced rates when traveling with their children.

Travel Meetups – People interested in group travel can search for travel clubs in their communities. These clubs plan group trips that members can sign up for. Members meets locally at social events planned by the club which is a great way to extend that vacation-vibe with travel-themed events held throughout the year...and you get to know fellow travelers before leaving on a group trip!

Group trips planned by the clubs offer significant benefits to members with reduced rates, perks and amenities that individual travel packages just don't have! Members get to enjoy the safety and security of a group, without having to find other people to travel with! Best of all, you get to share the experience with like-minded travelers with similar interests, and who knows, you may end up making life-long friends or finding your next travel buddy!

Single vs Solo – Don't mistake a Solo Traveler with a single traveler looking for a lively travel experience designed to attract other singles! A Solo Traveler is not necessarily single – they may choose to travel alone because their partner isn't interested or available, or they may not have a partner at all...and aren't interested in finding one either!

If you are a Solo Traveler, step outside your comfort zone, be inspired to get out there to explore and discover the world! There is a travel experience that's right for you...and travel friends waiting to meet you!