Solo Travellers
Free spirit or meticulous planner? Meet three holiday personality types – and read their top tips | Are You Travel-Ready, Chief Holiday Officer?

The type of holidaymaker you (and your travel companions) are can have a big impact on the kind of getaways you’ll enjoy. If you’re the type to pore over endless reviews, book everything in advance and use a spreadsheet to tick off every detail, you’ll have a very different experience to the fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants type of traveller, who prefers to just grab their passport and see where it takes them, carry-on in hand.
Or perhaps you’re more the flexible type, who likes to plan a few things in advance, but leaves space for spontaneous fun? Or maybe you’re the one who breathes a sigh of relief as your super organised friend hands out colour-coded itineraries at the airport?
We gathered together some of the holiday heroes that bring getaways to life to find out how they do it – and to discover some of the clever ways Barclays can help your holiday go even further, whichever group you belong to.
The chief holiday officer
‘I create a visual itinerary for every trip,’ says Sian Downes, 36
Click here to continue the story …
Over the years, I’ve organised girls’ trips, multigenerational family holidays and surprise getaways. As the founder of an events company, I’m a natural organiser. I enjoy finding bargains, and I don’t mind taking on the planning. In fact, I love it.
I wasn’t always like this, but after a few holidays where nothing was planned and we had a terrible time, I realised it’s better to know exactly what you’ll be doing in advance. There’s nothing worse than traipsing around looking for a restaurant when you’re hungry, and when you’re busy with work and family, you want to maximise your holiday time. Being organised is the best way to do that.
My holiday organisation can get a bit extreme, but it’s always worth it – I love looking things up on maps and working out the most affordable way to get around. I generally pay for as much as possible in advance, from accommodation to drinks packages, and put everything on my Barclaycard Rewards card* so I can take advantage of rewards such as cashback, then ask people to pay me back.
I’ll also draw up an illustrated itinerary, so everyone can see our plans at a glance. The first time I presented my husband with one, he didn’t know what to make of it. He’d never seen a holiday itinerary before, but I think it makes a trip special, and it’s a great souvenir, too. I certainly won’t be hanging up my chief holiday officer mantle any time soon!
*Representative 28.9% APR variable. The approval of your application depends on your financial circumstances and borrowing history, so do the terms you may be offered. The interest rates may differ from those shown. T&Cs apply.
The holiday free spirit
‘I use word of mouth to guide our getaways,’ says Jessica Shaw, 49
Click here to continue the story …
When I was growing up, my mum liked to choose a country, book a place to stay, then see where it would take us. We once went on a package holiday to Egypt, but she still chose to take public transport to the pyramids!
That approach has definitely rubbed off on me. When I go on holiday, I like to let things unfold naturally – I don’t pre-book excursions or restaurants. Luckily, my partner is incredibly laid-back, and all the friends I’ve travelled with have the same spontaneous outlook. Perhaps that’s because my travel style reflects my approach to life in general – my creative training business is all about embracing the power of play, and that naturally seeps into other areas of my life.
It’s certainly led to some memorable moments. During a recent holiday to Greece, we were asked if we wanted to join a snorkelling trip. If we’d had plans, we would have had to say no – but instead, we had the most incredible day swimming in clear blue waters.
The secret to keeping holidays adventurous is to be prepared for any eventuality. I have annual multi-trip insurance, and make sure I take enough money to cover any emergencies. You should also be ready to chat to locals and fellow travellers and ask for their recommendations. I’ve discovered some beautiful places that way, from hidden waterfalls to beaches surrounded by snow-capped mountains. When you exchange stories of your adventures, you never know what you might discover.
The holiday harmoniser
‘I take a 50-50 approach to holiday planning,’ says Furrah Syed, 57
Click here to continue the story …
I love travelling – with my friends, my husband, or alone – but as time is limited during each trip, I want the best of both worlds, planning some things but also embracing unexpected adventures. I’ll do my research beforehand, and will book tickets in advance if an attraction is very popular. I learned that the hard way, after a visit to Rome – as an artist and educator with a focus on colour, I was desperate to see the Sistine Chapel, but it was impossible as I hadn’t booked.
One of the things I always book is a walking tour. Getting a local’s perspective uncovers places you won’t find online. It also helps you to spot the restaurants filled with locals, which is always a good sign. Another tip is to travel by road wherever possible, as it takes you through so many different landscapes and allows you to see people’s day-to-day lives. You don’t get that on a plane.
When I’m budgeting for my holiday, I always keep some money aside for spontaneous adventures – the last thing I want is to come home regretting not being able to do something unexpected. I’d say my approach overall is 50% planned and 50% go-with-the-flow, and that works really well for me.
Find out more about Barclays Travel Packs and the Barclaycard Rewards card
Solo Travellers
12 Best Destinations for Australian Tourists to Travel Solo This Spring, Full Guide is Here for a Perfect Trip

Tuesday, August 5, 2025
Spring makes the world shimmer, and it’s the perfect season for solo travel. If wandering new streets, staring at mountain views, or dipping toes in ocean waves sounds good, you’re in the right place. This guide shares 12 top spots every Australian solo traveler should check out this season.
More Aussies are flying solo every year, and for good reason. Traveling alone means you get to set your own schedule, dive into new cultures, and have adventures at your own pace. This spring, everywhere you look, flowers, sunshine, and fresh experiences are waiting. Whether you stick to Australia or cross the ocean, these 12 destinations are safe, stunning, and full of memories you’ll want to keep.
The only blueprint you’ll need for a smooth, exciting trip is right here. Ready to kick-start the adventure? Grab this guide and take spring 2024 onto the open road.
Spring in Australia arrives in September, and it’s the best time for solo travel. Clear skies, blooming flowers, and the thrill of adventure fill the air. Whether you’re thinking of a short getaway or a longer adventure, this spring is calling you to hit the road. In this guide, I’ve picked the top spots for Aussie solo travellers based on safety, stunning nature, and experiences designed for one. Each place is vibrant, friendly, and ready for you to uncover on your own.
Tokyo, Japan — Quiet Wonders and Big Surprises
Tokyo promises a spotless, high-tech, and safe escape. September feels gentle, with the first hints of autumn. You can wander peaceful shrines, stroll bustling markets, or hop on a street food tour. Getting around is a breeze; the trains run like clockwork and people are always helpful. Don’t miss the Meguro Sun Festival for heartfelt music and the warm buzz of culture. Australians love the city’s perfect blend of ancient and cutting-edge, and you will, too.
Greek Islands – Sunsets, Wine, and Solo Joy
In September, islands like Santorini and Crete wrap around you in warmth. The summer crowds have slipped away, leaving the tubig still blue and welcoming. Old ruins stand in quiet applause, and soft beaches beg for a slow afternoon. This time of year the grapevines are heavy, and cellar doors open for tastings. Solo travelers can hop on a sailboat and find new pals between islands. If you’re thinking of a spring getaway, the Greek Islands keep the same gentle vibe, ready to unwind and invite you to wander.
Portugal – A Budget Paradise by the Sea
Portugal stays sunny and easy on your wallet. September days are warm, yet the beaches are still breathing, not bursting. You can feel the history in Lisbon and Porto, where music drifts from corner cafés and pastéis are warm in your hand. Stroll along the cliffs or ride the rattly trams up the hills. From the golden beaches to the lively street art, Australians fall for the friendliness and the easy pace. If you’re an Aussie looking for spring travel that pampers your spirit and budget, Portugal feels like a sunny “yes.”
Italy – Culture, Food, and Vineyards
Visiting Italy in September is like tasting a new dish every day. In Tuscany, the grape harvest fills the air with musty sweetness, and every hill is dressed in gold and green. Strolling the cobblestone streets of Rome feels like walking through a living museum; the Colosseum and street musicians make the past sing. Down in Sicily, sandy beaches join frescoed cathedrals in a surprisingly easy mix. Travel solo? Join a foodie crew in Bologna or a vineyard ride outside Florence, and make new friends over shared plates. Whether you love painting, pasta, or the ruins, a September in Italy fills every pocket of your heart.
France – Romance, Art, and Relaxed Days
France in September is a quiet love letter. In Paris, the leaves start to turn, and a golden light spills over the Seine. Sit at a sidewalk café with a warm croissant, or ride the train to a harvest festival in Bordeaux. Coastal towns in the Côte d’Azur are peaceful; you can swim in the sea and then wander old streets. Australians say France is both safe and stylish, with every train and museum on speakable terms in English. Art lovers can step inside the Louvre, then step outside for a street artist’s portrait. Everything feels easy and elegant, the perfect blend for solo wanderers.
Turkey – Hot Air Balloons and Ancient Streets
September in Turkey is like opening the door to a lively caravan. Istanbul’s bazaars are hot with spices and cool with tea; a ferry ride across the Bosphorus feels like a quick holiday from the holiday. In Cappadocia, dawn turns valleys to watercolor; that’s when the hot air balloons lift off, silent and bright. Turkish meals of bread, lamb, and yogurt are warm gifts placed in your hands. Australians say the people are generous and the streets feel safe. Whether you’re shopping for a lamp in a city bazaar or hiking to an ancient rock church, Turkey is a generous host to solo travelers who like both city buzz and centuries of stories.
Croatia – Coastlines Without the Crowds
Visiting Croatia in September is like stepping into a postcard. The Adriatic stays warm, the big ships disappear, and the sunsets last forever. You can walk the quiet old walls of Dubrovnik, catch a ferry to sun-soaked Hvar Island, or simply park yourself at a seaside café and eat grilled sardines. Everything is easy to reach, and solo travelers especially appreciate the safe roads and friendly faces. From ancient stone streets to sheltered beaches, the vibe is a relaxing mix of sun and history.
South Africa – A Springtime Adventure
September brings spring to South Africa, and the country wakes up in color. In Cape Town, wild flowers paint the hills, and it’s the best time to spot whales along the coast. You can hop a small plane or a bus into Kruger National Park and watch for elephants, lions, and leopards. The famous Garden Route road trip rolls through forests and golden beaches, where you can stop for a surf or a walk. Solo travelers feel at home in organized tours and cozy guesthouses, with safety in numbers and stories to share.
New Zealand – Friendly and Full of Thrills
Spring begins in New Zealand in September, and the country’s energy is contagious. In Queenstown, the mountains call you to bungee jump, hike, or race a jet boat through canyons. Auckland balances skyline views with sparkling harbors, and the streets hum with new cafés and bakeries. The fresh and mild weather is a perfect excuse to explore. Australians love the easy hop across the ditch, and solo travelers rave about the warm locals and spirit of adventure. From action to Auckland, the journey always feels like a grand welcome.
Barcelona, Spain – Art, Beaches, and Festivals
Barcelona is alive with color and laughter. In September, the temperature is just right—warm but not burning. You can wander the narrow, shadowy streets of the Gothic Quarter, peer at Gaudí’s wild towers, or spread out on the golden beach. The cuisine is a feast on every corner: olives, grilled squid, and a splash of paella. Flamenco strums from tapas bars and the city feels safe and buzzing, ideal for solo wanderers.
Vienna, Austria – Calm, Classy, and Cultural
Vienna is a city built of silence and grandeur. The Opera House opens its curtains in September, and every street corner has a hidden museum or a café with cake and coffee served on silver trays. The sidewalks are polished, and everywhere you turn, history whispers in perfect German. You can stroll from Baroque palace to quiet park and feel the city breathe with you. Music fans, readers, and lovers of the past will find their heart here in the soft spring air.
Canada – Leaves, Mountains, and Festivals
In September, Quebec and Vancouver dress in orange and gold. The air turns crisp and the mountains glow. You can hike through quiet forests, watch giant balloons rise against the autumn sky, or wander small towns that feel like postcards. Festivals of music and harvest celebrate every weekend. It’s a gentle, quiet time for a solo traveler. Canadians smile, share directions, and invite you in. For Aussies, it’s a grand blend of wild nature and buzzing city life all in one season.
Antigua and Tobago – Caribbean Calm in September
Antigua and Tobago soak up sunshine and peace in September. It’s in-between the big crowds and the big storms, so nights are cool and days are golden. Hotels discount their rates, and the sea shines like glass. Go snorkel among bright fish, sway to the rhythm of steel drums, or simply find a hammock. The islands are safe and slow, perfect for solo adventurers craving sunshine and silence in spring.
Kenya – Wild Adventures and Warm Smiles
September brings living color to Kenya. The great wildebeest migration thunders across the plains, and so do lions, cheetahs, and flocks of pink flamingos. Many solo explorers join friendly group safaris, making new friends and hiking in the fresh savanna air. Parks are open and safe when guides are with you. The wide skies, crackling campfires, and running herds create moments you’ll never forget. It’s a bucket-list splash for Australians chasing nature and a decent thrill.
Bonus Picks for Bold Solo Travelers
Morocco
September cools the desert. Marrakech buzzes with spice, color, and music. Camel rides, colorful markets, and nights in mountain kasbahs create a fairytale trip full of surprise.
Bali, Indonesia
After the dry months, Bali breathes peace. Join a sunrise yoga retreat, lose yourself in emerald rice fields, and meet a warm culture that loves visitors. Australians adore the wellness vibes and the cute beach cafes.
The Balkans – Bulgaria, Albania, Montenegro
September here means soft weather and empty roads. Rent a cheap flat, wander ancient towns, and dive into big blue seas for the price of a coffee. Fresh veggies and grilled fish pile your plate without piling your bill. Perfect for spring wanderers with a love for good weather on a good budget.
Why These Are the Best Places to Travel Solo This Spring for Aussie Travellers
Every destination on this list has something that sparkles. They’re safe, buzzing with life, and easy to wander alone. When September rolls around, Aussie travellers get the best of both worlds. Back home, the days are bright, and flowers wake up. Abroad, early fall whispers calm and sheds the crowds.
Going solo means the road is all yours. You can linger, you can dash. You can share laughs with new pals, or you can enjoy your own company. It’s pure freedom. And the globe is waiting with an open door.
Conclusion: Take the Solo Leap This September and Live It Hard
September is just the moment for Aussie wanderers to fly solo. The air smells fresh, the world feels wide. From Japan to New Zealand, from France to Bali, every corner has a gift to share.
Want a beach lounge, a hidden hike, or a personal breakthrough? The right spot is ready. These are the best places for Aussie travellers to roam solo this spring, and this is your moment to dazzle.
Pack ultrasmall. Step light. Saying yes is the only way.
Solo Travellers
17 Best Airbnbs for Enjoying Fall Foliage, From Vermont to Colorado

Bed & bath: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Top amenities: Hotel-grade Endy mattresses, sauna, wraparound deck and patio with a grill, parking for six-plus cars
Raw forest surrounds this super-size (sleeping 10 people) waterfront cabin in Ontario. Located 30 feet from the shore of Thirty Island Lake, fall guests get spectacular views of not only the dazzling canopy of gold, orange, and red leaves—but also their blurred, kaleidoscopic reflection on the water’s surface. And if you want even more of the beauty, you can take in these sights from the center of the lake itself—just hop in one of the watercrafts—a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard—from the private dock. Walk into the house, and you’ll quickly realize that despite the rustic setting, you won’t be roughing it. Hotel-worthy amenities abound: a completely stocked kitchen with an array of spices, a sauna, and Pendleton blankets in the bedrooms are just a few of them. (Take a look at our list of the best Airbnbs in Ontario within driving distance of Toronto for more options.)
Solo Travellers
The Best Time to Cruise Alaska 2024: A Month-by-Month Guide

April and May
If your schedule allows, not only does sailing Alaska in April and May afford the possibilities of glimpsing the Northern Lights and seeing wildlife emerge from their winter hibernation, it’s a more affordable and less crowded time to cruise, too. April and May are also the driest months in Alaska, so the chances of rain are slim.
Smaller ships like those that comprise Alaska Dream Cruises’ and UnCruise Adventures’ fleets can maneuver closer to the coastline for better views of bears rambling along the beaches and on-land excursions without another soul around. Alaska Dream Cruises added two new eight-day itineraries this season, both of which focus on remote wilderness, hiking, kayaking and wildlife viewing. UnCruise also has a new itinerary this year, a 10-night Aleutian Islands Adventure with Dutch Harbor and Kodiak itinerary.
June to August
Warmer temperatures, an average of 17 hours of daylight, and school vacations all make Alaska a popular destination for cruising in June, July, and August. Expect crowded ports and more ships out on the water, but that’s not to say it’s not a good time to set sail: bears are still active, as are whales and native bird life.
Oceania Cruises’ 1,250-guest Riviera sets sail to Alaska for the first time this season with itineraries ranging from 7 to 12 days through September, including a 10-day voyage roundtrip from Seattle. American Cruise Lines doubles its Alaskan offerings this year with five itineraries, including two new 16- and 19-day Alaska National Parks cruises. For a shorter option, check out the 9-Day Southeast Alaska Cruise, roundtrip from Juneau.
September
Not only is school back in session in September, which means fewer crowds at ports, but the chances of seeing the Northern Lights return, especially if combining your cruise with a land tour that takes you further north into Alaska. Fall is also mating season for wildlife, so expect to see some friskiness.
In partnership with Lindblad Expeditions, National Geographic Expeditions’ new 11-day Voyage to the Great Bear Rainforest travels from Ketchikan to Seattle with plenty of adventure in between, including seeking out the spirit bear (a subspecies of American black bear also known as a Kermode bear). Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Edge is sailing her second season in Alaska, offering seven-night Alaska Dawes Glacier itineraries in September, either roundtrip from Seattle, or one-way from Seattle to Vancouver, British Columbia. For a longer cruise-tour option, take a look at one of Princess Cruise Line’s new offerings highlighting the National Parks, like the National Parks Expedition that visits five parks over the course of 15 days.
October
The Alaska cruise season winds down in October, with only a few ships setting sail. Just as in April and May, you’ll likely have the water to yourself, and even fewer people in the ports you call upon. Along with cooler weather, you’ll also find lower fares that will please your bank account. Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, and Royal Caribbean International all sail in Alaska into the fall, but Norwegian Cruise Line is the last to set sail in the state with seven-day itineraries roundtrip from Seattle.
2026 and beyond
Though we’re in the midst of the 2025 sailing season, if you’re looking to plan ahead for 2026 and even 2027, there’s even more from which to choose. For example, in May 2026 Princess Cruises’ newest ship, Star Princess, will sail roundtrip from Seattle to the Inside Passage. And for the first time, family favorite Disney Cruise Line will have two ships in Alaska in 2026 when Disney Magic joins Disney Wonder to offers 35 seven-night itineraries over the summer. Holland America Line, which has sailed in Alaska for more than 75 years, is debuting its new 14-day Great Alaska Explorer in 2026. Itinerary highlights include Anchorage, Juneau, Ketchikan, Kodiak, Valdez, and Prince Rupert, not to mention Glacier Bay scenic cruising.
A handful of cruise lines are sailing to Alaska for the first time in 2026, with another making a return to the Far North. MSC Cruises embarks upon its inaugural Alaska cruise season in May 2026 when MSC Poesia sets sail on seven-night itineraries roundtrip from Seattle. Another newcomer is The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection with Luminara setting sail on seven- to 11-night itineraries, including the seven-night roundtrip voyage from Vancouver. And Virgin Voyages will embark upon seven- to 12-night itineraries aboard Brilliant Lady, like the Alaskan Glacier Blues & Coastal Views sailing. Azamara Cruises returns to Alaska when Azamara Pursuit sets out on its 10- and 11-night itineraries with new immersive cruise-tours for those who can linger longer.
Looking further ahead to 2027, Explora Journeys embarks on its first cruises in Alaska from Vancouver, Canada, on board Explora III. Her inaugural voyage will be an 11-night “Journey Through Untamed Landscapes & Coastal Treasures” in May.
-
Brand Stories2 weeks ago
Bloom Hotels: A Modern Vision of Hospitality Redefining Travel
-
Brand Stories1 week ago
CheQin.ai sets a new standard for hotel booking with its AI capabilities: empowering travellers to bargain, choose the best, and book with clarity.
-
Destinations & Things To Do2 weeks ago
Untouched Destinations: Stunning Hidden Gems You Must Visit
-
Destinations & Things To Do1 week ago
This Hidden Beach in India Glows at Night-But Only in One Secret Season
-
AI in Travel2 weeks ago
AI Travel Revolution: Must-Have Guide to the Best Experience
-
Brand Stories1 month ago
Voice AI Startup ElevenLabs Plans to Add Hubs Around the World
-
Brand Stories3 weeks ago
How Elon Musk’s rogue Grok chatbot became a cautionary AI tale
-
Asia Travel Pulse1 month ago
Looking For Adventure In Asia? Here Are 7 Epic Destinations You Need To Experience At Least Once – Zee News
-
AI in Travel1 month ago
‘Will AI take my job?’ A trip to a Beijing fortune-telling bar to see what lies ahead | China
-
Brand Stories2 weeks ago
Contactless Hospitality: Why Remote Management Technology Is Key to Seamless Guest Experiences