Booking.com has unveiled the results of its first Solo Travel Report, which spanned five countries to determine why people hit the road on their lonesome.
The independent research revealed two thirds of Aussie women have experienced the freedom to be themselves, by travelling the world on their own and finding unique destinations for inspiration and self-discovery.
The report also indicated this trend will grow, with 60% of female solo travellers planning to do so again in the next 12 months.
Of these female solo travellers, 30% of women are taking these trips to unwind and relax, while 70% report feeling more energised and refreshed compared to when travelling with friends, families and even partners.
“Travelling by yourself is no longer taboo, or even scary for that matter,” said co-founder of Australian lifestyle blog Show+Tell, Brooke Campbell.
“There’s a certain sense of empowerment that comes with travelling solo – you try new things and meet people you wouldn’t meet otherwise.”
But it’s not just the ladies embarking on solo adventures around the globe. Aussie men are also doing it, but for slightly different reasons. While only 12% of women travel to find a sense of adventure, 23% of men claim it’s the greatest benefit of lone vacations.
The report also found that the magic of social media and digital technology is giving Aussies more license to explore. Women feel more confident and connected travelling solo, with 66% claiming they feel safer when they have a phone at their disposal.
