Australian tour operator Inspiring Vacations has launched a new range of group holidays designed specifically for solo travellers, offering packages without the usual single supplements.
The new Solo Journeys tours are aimed at individuals travelling alone, with itineraries across destinations including Japan, Egypt, Sri Lanka, Africa and South America. Each trip includes return flights, a private room, airport transfers, local guides and fully escorted small group touring.
Company co-founder Brendon Cooper said the tours were created to remove the extra costs often faced by solo travellers. “The travel industry doesn’t always make it easy for solo adventurers to find affordable options,” he said.
Chief executive Paul Ryan added that the popularity of solo travel is increasing across a wide range of age groups. “For too long, people who want to travel alone have had to either share with strangers or pay large solo supplements,” he said.
Research suggests the solo travel market is growing rapidly, with a Scoot survey showing 87 per cent of Australians plan to take a solo trip in the next year. Women over 50 are the fastest-growing group in this category.
The new Solo Journeys tour range by Inspiring Vacations features trips to seven of the tour operators best-selling destinations such as:
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15 Day Inspired Japan – A Premium Solo Small Group Journey – explore the best of Japan such as Mount Fuji, the Golden Temple in Kyoto, and Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing, plus lesser-known gems like the charming old towns of Takayama and Kanazawa. From $10,695pp including flights departing Melbourne or Sydney.
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22 Day Inspired South America – A Solo Small Group Journey – experience the vast continent of South America on this adventure through Argentina, Brazil and Peru. Spend two-nights in an eco-lodge in the Amazon, tango in Buenos Aires, and visit Machu Picchu. From $12,995pp including flights departing Melbourne or Sydney.
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13 Day Inspired Sri Lanka – A Solo Small Group Journey – be enchanted by the history, wildlife and landscapes of Sri Lanka. From Colombo’s vibrant streets to the lush greenery of tea country and relaxing beaches south west coast, experience the wonder of Sri Lanka. From $4,495pp including flights departing Melbourne or Sydney.
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10 Day Inspired Egypt – A Premium Small Group Journey – marvel at the mighty Pyramids and walk in the footsteps of the pharaohs in the Valley of the Kings. Stock up on souvenirs from Egypt’s vibrant bazaars or unwind with a cruise along the Nile. From $8,795pp including flights departing Melbourne or Sydney.