If the term ‘solo travel’ conjures a vision of backpackers in a youth hostel, you may need to update your definition!
NB: This is an article from WebRezPro
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While solo travel certainly attracts adventurous types, it’s no longer a niche pursuit but a movement. According to Airbnb, searches for solo travel have increased by 90% from last year, and Forbes says solo travel is one of the top trends for 2025, especially among Millennials and Gen Z travelers. The world is increasingly embracing the freedom and personal growth of venturing alone. So, how can independent hotels cater to solo travelers?
Solo travel reflects a deeper desire for autonomy, connection, and self-discovery. To truly meet the needs of these travelers, hoteliers must first understand what drives them.
The Solo Travel Surge: Why People Are Going It Alone
Solo travel simply means traveling by yourself – but the motivations behind it are anything but simple, in the sense that the reasons are so varied. Whether it’s a spiritual journey, a mental health reset, or just a long-awaited bucket list trip, today’s solo travelers are driven by a desire to experience the world on their own terms.
Some are working remotely and seizing the chance to travel while they can.
Some are pairing business with leisure, tacking solo side-trips onto work or family visits.
Others are couples taking separate getaways to honor different interests or schedules.
What they all have in common is a craving for flexibility, freedom, and deeply personal experiences – often away from the crowds.
According to CNBC, nearly 50% of travelers say their next trip is to fulfill a dream or tick off a bucket list destination. And 63% are eyeing off-the-beaten-path locations over traditional tourist hubs.
For independent hoteliers, that means designing stays and crafting packages that reflect those motivations, whether that’s through partnerships with local experiences, specialist retreats like meditation or writing workshops, or personalized itineraries that spark joy.
Understanding the mindset is the first step. With the right tools – like a smart property management system that helps personalize service and streamline guest touchpoints – hoteliers can deliver exactly what today’s solo travelers are looking for.
Why Solo Travelers Matter to Independent Hotels
Independent hotels have a golden opportunity here. Unlike big hotel chains, they can pivot faster, experiment more, and cultivate a stronger sense of community – key factors in attracting solo travelers.
