Dreaming of adventure but don’t have a travel buddy? You’re not alone. Half of the travellers who join Peregrine and Intrepid’s range of inspirational tours are solo travellers.
Instead of dragging your reluctant plus one on a tour they may not be interested in, you can look forward to travelling with a group of like-minded individuals. There will always be someone to talk to, especially at the end of the day, when you can sit down and reflect on the things you’ve learned, the sights you’ve seen and the people you’ve met.
There’s a wholesome kind of beauty to discovering a destination on your own, and some tours are more suited to solo travels than others. Here are five of our favourite Peregrine and Intrepid tours and why we think solo travellers will love them.
1. European Christmas Markets
Have you ever noticed that individuals who are brought together at Christmas time end up revelling in a newfound sense of camaraderie? They say Christmas is the worst time to be alone, but this eight-day journey through Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets will help you discover the special spirit in a whole new way.
With the magic of Europe’s fairytale Christmas villages as a backdrop, this tour of France, Germany and Austria could set the scene for your jolliest Christmas yet. If you choose to browse extensively through the Christmas ornaments, there’s no one to protest!
2. Egypt - Pyramids, Mummies & Pharaohs
Be enveloped in the mystery of Egypt; a sensation that will only be heightened by solo travel. If you’ve always been fascinated by pyramids, mummies and pharaohs, chances are you’ve done your homework. On this specialised tour, you’ll be exploring ancient Egypt with others who are just as captivated as you.
You’ll have time to study the intricate carvings at the Temple of Isis at length, to take a million photos of the giant Ramses statues at the Great Temple and to listen to an account of Egypt’s engrossing dynastic history... and the best part? There will be someone eager to hash it all over with you once again at dinner.
3. Mexico Real Food Adventure
If you’re a diehard foodie, travelling with a non food lover can be somewhat awkward. You’ll never have to worry about this on a Mexico Real Food Adventure - anyone who signs up for this one better be ready to nosh.
From taco crawls to ceviche breakfast extravaganzas, you won’t care if you’re travelling alone because your tastebuds and tummy will be in a constant state of ecstasy. Luckily for you, there are fellow foodies joining you on your adventure, so you can savour the flavours of Mexico with those who appreciate it.
4. Journey through Israel and the Palestinian Territories
There is so much to be learned in the mystic holy lands of Israel and the Palestinian Territories. The wondrous sights you’ll see on this seven-day tour deserve some quiet reflection - a pondering on the significance of these sacred sites on the world of today.
You’ll visit the location of the Miracle of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes, The Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem and walk the ‘Way of the Cross’ in Jerusalem. Discover how these ancient sites affect you with the unique brand of introspection that comes from solo travel.
5. Cambodia and Vietnam Discovery
From mystic marvels to cosmopolitan bustle, Cambodia and Vietnam are a traveller’s delight, but beneath the surface lays a history that should not be forgotten.
In Phnom Penh you’ll learn about the reign of the Khmer Rouge, a painful but unavoidable part of Cambodia’s recent history. Coming to terms with the evidence of this tragedy is something deeply personal, and solo travel with Peregrine or Intrepid offers the perfect opportunity to talk about it as much or as little as you desire.
From there, journey on to Angkor Wat and be astonished by the beauty of the world’s largest religious monument. Dive deep into a spectacularly preserved ancient culture, and take your time darting through crumbling archways, exploring narrow passages and gazing at apsara carvings.
The history lesson continues in Ho Chi Minh, with a visit to the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum before touring the unbelievable Cu Chi Tunnels.