Traveling alone, not lonely.   Although the travel industry is geared towards couples, as demand has grown more companies than ever are focused on globetrotting singles.   Who is traveling solo:   25% of all leisure travelers left home alone.  50% of solo travelers are over 35, average age of single traveler is 42.   Once this group included only people who were divorced, widowed, never married or who preferred traveling alone because their significant others have different interests or schedules.  Now it includes urban professionals who don't have the time to plan their own trips and often enjoy outdoor and educational activities.   Top destination for singles travel: Europe.  Followed by Hawaii and the Caribbean for women. Mexico and Hawaii for men.

Setting expectations: tours are offering seat mates not soul mates. These are not dating companies – biggest draw for these trips is the company of other singles with similar interests.  You'll enjoy seeing the sights by day and when the couples are slipping off to bed, you'll be chatting by the fire with your new unattached friends.  Don’t worry you won’t have to pay for two. Most have roommate-matching services. Now offering cheaper singles supplement, usually 25%.  There’s something for everyone. Tours vary in size from an intimate group of 12 on an African Safari to a crowd of 250 on a singles cruise. Various preferences: 30 & under, Boomers, mixed – so you can travel with married friends. Active trips typically draw a 60 Male /40 Female ratio. Usually Caribbean trips & cruising have a higher number of women travelers.  Legacy of “The Love Boat” Groups hosted by a Social Director. Many offer a Singles “meet & greet.”

Travel Resources & Tours:   Don’t put your life on hold!  Elaine Lee, one of the women I interviewed for my book, had always wanted to travel.  She finally stopped waiting for Mr. Right and started traveling around the world on her own.  Her travels led to a bestselling travel book – “Go Girl: The Black Woman's Book of Travel and Adventure”!  See her live on the “The View From the Bay” and read her traveling tips.   AAA Travel Professionals Offer Tips for Solo Travelers www.tangodiva.com    Tours for Singles:   www.singlestravelcompany.com www.singlestravelservice.com www.singlestravelintl.com    Want to take along your best friend: dog-friendly trips   www.europeds.com www.breakaway-adventures.com www.dogfriendly.com - listing of pet friendly accommodations www.hikewithyourdog.com                           The Last Single Girl in the World Copyright © 2006-2007 Jerusha Stewart, The Singles Concierge