Sun, Serenity & Self-Discovery: Why More UK Solo Travellers Are Choosing a Week of Luxury Abroad

There’s a quiet revolution unfolding among UK travellers. More people than ever are booking solo escapes—not for adventure’s sake, but to find true rest and renewal under the sun. Gone are the days when luxury holidays were reserved for couples or groups. Today, solo travellers are embracing the idea that a week of indulgence in a beautiful, sun-drenched destination can be the ultimate act of self-care

What’s behind this shift? For many, it’s the freedom to step away from daily responsibilities and immerse themselves in a world designed for comfort, beauty, and peace of mind. It’s about waking up to sunlight streaming across crisp white sheets, knowing the day belongs entirely to you.

Take Greece’s island of Kos, for example. Here, ancient stone ruins sit just steps from the gentle surf at Agios Stefanos Beach. Solo guests spend lazy afternoons by infinity pools, wander the narrow lanes of Kos Town, or retreat to the mountain village of Zia, where the sunset paints the sky in orange and gold. The scent of wild herbs drifts on the breeze, and dinner is often a quiet affair—fresh seafood by the harbour, the gentle hum of Greek music in the background. It’s a place where time slows down, and every moment feels like a gift.

Across the Atlantic, Jamaica offers a different kind of luxury—one where the rhythm of reggae meets the hush of the Caribbean Sea. In Negril, Seven Mile Beach stretches endlessly, its powdery white sand kissed by turquoise waves. Some solo travellers choose boutique hotels perched on the cliffs of West End, where the sunsets are legendary and the air is filled with laughter and the aroma of jerk spices. Others find peace in the Blue Mountains, sipping coffee on a shaded terrace, surrounded by lush greenery and the soft sounds of the island.

Then there’s Bali, where luxury and spirituality blend in the most enchanting ways. In Ubud, rice terraces ripple across the hills, and mornings begin with yoga overlooking the Ayung River. The scent of frangipani fills the air as you wander through sacred forests or indulge in a Balinese massage. Down at Jimbaran Bay, the day ends with a seafood feast on the sand, the sky glowing as the sun dips behind volcanic peaks. For many, Bali is less a destination and more a feeling—a gentle invitation to breathe, reflect, and reconnect.

The Algarve, Portugal’s sun-kissed southern coast, offers its own understated elegance. Here, golden cliffs tumble into the Atlantic, and Praia da Marinha is a hidden gem where honey-coloured rocks frame clear blue water. In Lagos, the cobbled streets wind past whitewashed houses and bustling markets. Days are spent exploring sea caves by boat, hiking sun-warmed cliffs, or simply basking in the peace of a private garden, far from the world’s demands.

And of course, Thailand’s islands have long been a haven for those seeking both comfort and culture. On Koh Samui, the soft sands of Chaweng Beach are perfect for a morning swim, while Phuket’s Kata Noi Beach offers tranquillity and gentle waves. Whether you’re enjoying a Thai massage beneath the palms, learning to cook with lemongrass and coconut, or sharing a candlelit dinner above the Andaman Sea, the warmth of Thai hospitality ensures that every solo guest feels genuinely cherished.

For many who choose these escapes, the greatest luxury is the freedom to set their own pace. One guest described it as, “the first time I’d truly put myself first. The luxury, the service, the sunshine—it was all exactly what I needed.” Another shared, “There was something so freeing about being able to choose every moment for myself. I came back lighter, happier, and more in tune with what I really want.”

Today’s luxury resorts and hotels have mastered the art of welcoming solo travellers. From seamless airport transfers to tailored excursions and attentive staff, every detail is designed to make you feel safe, comfortable, and at home. There’s space to be social if you wish—maybe at a wine tasting or yoga class—or to simply enjoy your own company in a beautiful place.

A week of luxury in the sun is more than just a holiday—it’s a chance to recharge, reflect, and treat yourself to the experience you deserve. Whether you dream of the beaches of Greece, the magic of Bali, or the laid-back charm of Jamaica, there’s a solo luxury escape waiting for you.

If you’re ready to plan your own week of sun, serenity, and self-care, Solo-Tripper can help you find the perfect destination and experience—tailored to your dreams.