Latest news with #TheShelbourne
Irish Independent
3 days ago
- Business
- Irish Independent
New owner of Dublin's Shelbourne hotel plans €50m renovation
The renovation, beginning in October 2025, starts a year after the hotel marked its 200th anniversary in business in 2024, and comes relatively quickly after a €35m refurbishment under previous owner Kennedy Wilson that included a restoration of the building exterior. The Shelbourne was bought by Archer Capital from the US investment company in March 2024 for a reported €240m. Archer Hotel Capital, a Dutch investment firm, owns a large number of hotels in Europe with a total value of €3.5bn. The planned refurbishment will focus on 226 guestrooms, specifically the Queen, Deluxe and Heritage Premium categories, with the plans led by Irish designer Bryan O'Sullivan who has previously worked on prestigious London hotels such as Claridge's and The Connaught. 'The Shelbourne is a historically important building, not just for Dublin, but for Ireland,' he said. 'From the beginning, we have approached this project with an aspiration to honour the legacy of the building and to craft a guest experience that feels authentic, timeless and grounded in place.' The re-design will aim to have a mix of classic heritage details with a modern-day touch, he said. The refurbished interiors will include works by Irish artist Louis le Brocquy, and collaborations with Dublin's Kerlin Gallery. JP Kavanagh, general manager of The Shelbourne, welcomed the refurbishment: 'It has been a privilege to escort this great lady through her 200th year,' he said. 'With the owners' investment, it will preserve the hotel's legacy while further enhancing our offering. The next chapter in the significant history of this beloved Dublin landmark is being written with elegance and intention.'
The Independent
19-06-2025
- The Independent
The best hotels in Dublin for a city break in the Irish capital
There's always something going on in Dublin. This is a city where new restaurants and bars seem to pop up every week, alongside the old favourites that have been welcoming patrons for years (centuries, if you take some of the city's oldest pubs into consideration). There are also a huge variety of places to stay, whether you fancy a charming guesthouse in a period building or a cool boutique hotel with a rooftop bar. A word of warning, though – despite there being more hotel rooms on offer than ever (with new spots opening up regularly) the city can often get booked up. It's worth booking at least a few months in advance, particularly if you're travelling in the summer or on a peak weekend. But that said, you can often score a bargain at the last minute, so it's always worth keeping an eye out for great deals. As a hotel-obsessed travel writer who calls Dublin home, I have a hotlist of favourite spots in the city – places where you can rely on enviable interiors, a comfy bed and a big smile at check-in. Because if there's one thing that can be all but guaranteed in this Irish city, it's a warm welcome. Best hotels in Dublin 2025 At a glance 1. The Shelbourne hotel There's nowhere quite like the Shelbourne. The 'Grand Dame of Dublin' opened in 1824, and it still retains a feeling of old-world luxury – the doormen are decked out in top hats, the ceilings drip with golden chandeliers and the rooms are kitted out with lust-worthy antiques. This is real special occasion territory, and it also plays a special role in Ireland's history – the Irish Constitution was drafted within these walls in 1922. Address: 27 St Stephen's Green, Dublin, Ireland 2. The Merrion hotel When it comes to sheer, unbridled luxury, you can't beat The Merrion. This is the place to go when you want to evoke that Lord of the Manor vibe, without ever leaving the city. The rooms are the ultimate in comfortable luxury – think plush, kitten-soft beds, corniced ceilings and marble bathrooms. Two-Michelin-starred restaurant Patrick Guilbaud is downstairs, and the pastries served in the Drawing Rooms for afternoon tea are an artistic masterpiece. Their main restaurant, The Garden Room, has an exceptional vegan fine dining menu, too. 3. Brooks Hotel Considering the quite reasonable room rates, there's a real sense of individualised attention to detail at the newly refurbished Brooks Hotel. There's Irish duck feather bedding in the bedrooms, warm and friendly staff and a huge selection of whiskeys behind the bar, from both Ireland and around the world. There's even a 26-seat private cinema, which guests can use when it's not rented out. Meanwhile, their new 62 Drury Street Bar & Brasserie is a great space for a casual bite during the day or a cocktail in the evening. Address: 62 Drury St, Dublin 2, D02 TV06, Ireland 4. Conrad Dublin hotel Still basking in its €14 million renovation, the Conrad Dublin is one of the finest hotels in town. The rooms strike the perfect balance between style and comfort, with an emphasis on Irish heritage – think Foxford woven blankets on the beds and Irish art on the walls. Breakfast is a highlight, with cafetieres on every table and the fluffiest of pancakes cooked to order, as well as free-flowing prosecco for mimosas and a Bloody Mary station to boot. 5. Number 31 hotel If you aren't looking for Number 31, you'll likely walk past it without noticing. Hidden away behind a tall garden wall, this Georgian townhouse is all about sumptuous, classic design, with original features that make architecture nerds weep with joy. There are just 21 bedrooms – opt for one in the townhouse, rather than the modern mews – for their intricately carved ceilings and tall sash windows. The garden between the two is a joy on a sunny day. Address: 31 Leeson Cl, Dublin 2, D02 CP70, Ireland 6. The Dean Dublin hotel If you're in town for a good time, The Dean is the place for you. With a rooftop bar so buzzy it practically vibrates, and an in-house DJ in the lobby, this isn't the spot for a serene night away (so light sleepers be warned), but rather a crash pad for a night of partying. With their own record players and Smeg fridges, the rooms are the epitome of cool, and the Mod Pod rooms are often a steal. 7. The Westbury Hotel A hotel restaurant rarely attracts local diners, but you'll always find Dubliners looking for a bite to eat at The Westbury. There's an opulent Art Deco vibe in Wilde, the light-filled restaurant dripping with greenery, and a sleeker, neighbourhood vibe in Balfes, but both offer exceptional food (and killer cocktails). Afternoon tea in the Gallery is practically an institution, and is excellent for people-watching. 8. The Alex hotel If you're travelling for work, you're often lumbered with a soulless corporate hotel, with a personality as beige as the bedroom walls. Not so at The Alex, a space that's chic while still catering perfectly to business travellers. There's a cool co-working space in the lobby, a coffee shop for quick caffeine fixes and a Mad Men -esque bar for those end-of-day cocktails. Address: 41-47 Fenian St, Dublin, D02 H678, Ireland 9. Aloft Dublin City hotel In the heart of the Liberties, the Aloft is a cool hotel with light-filled rooms, sleek design and a space-age glass exterior. But, really, this place is all about the view – the hotel's reception, along with a sprawling bar and little rooftop terrace, is up on the seventh floor, giving you a panorama of the city. You can see the local cathedrals, various city landmarks and even out to the Dublin Mountains. Dreamy. Address: 1 Mill St, The Liberties, Dublin, D08 XK58, Ireland 10. The Devlin Dublin hotel In the pretty district of Ranelagh, just a short tram ride from the city centre, The Devlin is the place to go if you want to see a different side of Dublin. The rooms are on the smaller side, but stylish and cleverly designed, with a handheld garment steamer and a Dyson hairdryer stored under the bed. Upstairs, cocktail bar Layla's is great for sundowners or a boozy brunch, and there's a teeny Art Deco cinema in the basement, too. 11. The Wilder hotel With its gorgeous red brick exterior, plush rooms and stylishly cosy bar, The Wilder is the perfect hideaway in the city. All of the spaces are residents-only, so there's a pleasing aura of calm to the hotel, even though it's only a short walk from the city centre. Each night, turndown service comes with a bedtime story of sorts, in the form of a book of Irish fairy tales or The Complete Short Stories by Oscar Wilde left on your pillow. Why trust us The hotels featured in this list have been carefully selected by The Independent's expert travel writers, each with a deep knowledge of the destinations they cover. Our contributors either live in these locations or visit frequently, ensuring a personal and informed perspective. When picking which hotels to include, they consider their own experience staying in the hotels and evaluate location, facilities, service and all the other details that make for an exceptional stay for all types of traveller. FAQs When is the best time to visit Dublin? Like the rest of Ireland, the best time to visit Dublin for warmer weather, less rainfall, and sunnier days is in the summer months, between June and August. For a trip to the city without the crowds, visit in the shoulder seasons in spring and autumn, when hotel prices are also likely cheaper. Dublin comes alive on one of Ireland's biggest national holidays, St Patrick's Day in March, when parades with colourful floats are held in the streets and arts and culture events are put on in the city to celebrate the annual saint day. Merrion Square, lined with Georgian architecture, the trendy Liberties and the bustling Temple Bar are popular areas to stay in Dublin.
Irish Examiner
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Examiner
Desire Lines: A capsule collection, body makeup, and a Spice Girl gúna
The blazer Founded by former corporate lawyer Sonica Beckmann, House of Kind is a mission-led fashion brand championing kindness as a force for change. Launched in London on World Kindness Day 2024, and supporting organisations that empower marginalised women, the debut collection features a capsule collection of hard-working, versatile blazers designed for women at all stages of their careers. Distinctive details include Scales of Justice buttons — a nod to the founder's background — a discreet purple love heart on the sleeve, signifying a supportive presence, and breathable lining printed with the brand mantra: Kindness is our Superpower. Blazers from £239 (approx €283) . The home fragrances Synonymous with glamour, the late Princess Grace of Monaco, had close ties to The Shelbourne Hotel. So it's fitting that the iconic Irish hotel was chosen for an exclusive partnership with Grace de Monaco, the modern luxury maison inspired by the Hollywood icon. A first-of-its-kind luxury-for-good brand offering products in fragrance, home, beauty and accessories, Grace de Monaco is wholly owned by the Princess Grace Foundation-USA, with all revenue directly supporting the Princess Grace Awards programme, which elevates aspiring young dancers, actors and filmmakers. Princess Grace also made artwork, including pressed flower creations using native blooms of her Mediterranean home. Those flowers have inspired the prints and fragrances of the new collection. Capture the essence of the French Riviera with the initial selection of Grace de Monaco at The Shelbourne, through glamorous home fragrances including candles (€260) and diffusers (€330). Our favourite is the citrus-bright Danse Étoilée candle. Visit The Shelbourne to explore the collection and look out for the exquisite fragrances launching exclusively in Brown Thomas too. The festival Soprano Eva Kavanagh. Picture: Mark Reddy The Blackwater Valley Opera Festival (BVOF) returns this week, presenting two operas for the first time — A Midsummer Night's Dream and Dido and Aeneas. Celebrating its 15th anniversary year, Ireland's summer opera festival also has accessible ticket pricing, making it easier than ever before for audiences to experience the magic of live opera in some of Ireland's most breathtaking settings. As part of the festival, soprano Eva Kavanagh, pictured, has been announced as the first-ever recipient of the Bríd Phelan Emerging Talent Award with a €6,000 bursary, supported by Kildare Village. From May 27 - June 2. The exhibition The Newbridge Museum of Style Icons unveiled a new celebrity collection this week. Victoria Beckham takes centre stage with an additional four dresses on display from the designer and singer. The most iconic? The leather mini dress she wore at the height of her Spice Girls fame. The museum also launched a new ad this week, created and shot by Dancing With The Stars judge, Arthur Gourounlian. The rosé There are now even more reasons to drink Whispering Angel, the cult French rosé from Provence. The 2024 vintage is being hailed as a stand-out, serving up finessed citrus notes with a fruit-forward profile and smooth and dry finish. And Château d'Esclans has reduced the weight of the 2024 bottle in a step towards reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 50% before 2030. The lighter bottle is also helping reduce transport emissions, energy use, and waste. Feel-good vibes, all round. €26.65, from independent off-licences and Avoca, Brown Thomas, O'Briens and Molloys nationwide. The body make-up Tanning has come a long way, and this latest launch from Bellamianta proves it. Designed to deliver instant, flawless coverage while nourishing and conditioning the skin, their new cream-to-gel body makeup is water and sweat resistant. Available in five shades, from fair (and it really is fair) to ultra deep, the buildable formula means you can add a touch for a glow, or build it up to conceal. €23.99. The bank holiday event Bloom returns this June bank holiday weekend. Gardening for Wild+ Well Sessions with Leonie Cornelius, in association with Zarbee's, will take place daily at 1.45pm at the Garden Stage. In celebration of nature, garden and all things wild and wonderful, a total of 40 talks and panel discussions will see a range of experts take to the Garden Stage over the five days of the festival. Diarmuid Gavin and Adam Frost of BBC Gardeners' World are among the gardening experts announced who will be speaking. Compiled by Vickie Maye, Nicole Glennon and Jillian Bolger, weekend@ Read More The sustainable closet: I tried an app to help me wear everything in my wardrobe
Yahoo
08-04-2025
- Yahoo
Here are the best destinations for solo travelers
A solo getaway offers the ideal opportunity to immerse oneself in the authentic culture, history, and expression of a particular destination. There are no limits to where inspiration may take you, nor should there be. Whether it's a Michelin-starred meal or an adrenaline-inducing adventure, with some planning and expert advice, your next solo journey can reach new heights. There may be no better combination than a pint and a good book—and no better destination to imbibe in said lager and literature than Oscar Wilde's birthplace, Dublin, Ireland. Art and cultural historian Dr. Andrew Lear, a scholar of Wilde's work, suggests a hotel with historical significance. 'I highly recommend The Shelbourne, where Oscar Wilde stayed when on a speaking tour in Dublin,' says Lear. Leave room in your suitcase for your literary conquests, whether they be budget-friendly used copies from Chapters Bookshop or one-of-a-kind finds at Ulysses Rare Books. Take your book to a pub with a snug (a private room or alcove), like those found at The Waterloo, featuring natural light and people-watching on Baggot Street. For an afternoon adventure, Lear suggests riding the local DART train along Dublin Bay to Dalkey (20 minutes) to visit the tower where much of James Joyce's Ulysses takes place. If the idea of an all-inclusive resort sounds appealing but the throngs of guests not so much, consider a respite to the private island of Petit St. Vincent, located 40 miles south of St. Vincent. Getting there is an adventure, including a private flight from Barbados to Union Island and a boat transfer. The 115-acre island features secluded one- and two-bedroom cottages dotted throughout the grounds where visitors can get lost in the sound of gentle waves undulating toward the coastline. Alfresco Balinese-inspired spa treatments, yoga, and complimentary snorkeling gear make filling the day a breeze. For those seeking more adventure, utilize the on-site dive center or book a sailing adventure to a nearby island like Tobago Cays. Declared an official wildlife reserve in 2006, the marine park is a snorkeler's dream, featuring a bounty of tropical fish, sea turtles, and coral reefs. (Related: Six things travel teaches you.) If 'hygge'—the elusive Danish definition of well-being—is your idea of an enticing getaway, Copenhagen ranks high for its thoughtful aesthetic and design. Denmark's capital is the ideal locale to spend an afternoon coffeehouse-hopping with a stack of design magazines or wandering along Jægersborggade, a small residential street that's evolved into a cultural hub with art galleries, wine bars, and a seasonal flea market. Nobody knows this better than Nikoline Dyrup Carlsen, architect and founder partner of the Copenhagen-based cross-disciplinary design and architecture studio SPACON & X, whose projects include two-starred Michelin restaurant AOC and contemporary Nordic brewery Folk Kombucha. 'My personal hot spot in Copenhagen is Hart Bakery in Mærsehuset, Holmen,' says Carlsen. 'I absolutely love this old maritime, red-stained house by the water! [It] has terraces on both sides, making it well-fitted for all times of day.' She can also spend hours at HAY House's flagship store on Østergade. After checking out the top-floor showroom, Carlsen recommends visiting the roof terrace overlooking the city for peaceful contemplation. To bring a bit of hygge home, she visits the FRAMA Studio Store 'as frequently as possible' to discover the latest Danish design. Bourbon Street isn't exactly the quiet respite most travelers think of when considering a solo escape. Still, the Crescent City offers plenty of hidden gems that pay tribute to its culturally rich cuisine and cocktail culture. Cane and Table, located a few blocks east of bustling Jackson Square, offers historically inspired rum-centric drinks like the Hurricane & Table prepared with homemade Fassionola fruit syrup or a spicy Bloody Mary topped with a pile of vinegary chowchow. For a refined dining setting that pays homage to the city's historic taverns, Jewel of the South's seasonal menu reimagines pub food where a solo traveler could slink into a cozy corner. (Leave the book at home as the dim lighting and potent cocktails make for better people-watching.) Check into Blackbird Hotel for a serene night's sleep just steps from the Garden District's Magazine Street. This hotel offers 13 uniquely designed rooms, whether you're looking for bright and airy or a deeply saturated enclave with the rustle of oak leaves outside your window. (Related: 6 of the world's most remote destinations to test your inner adventurer.) Ernest White II, executive producer and host of FLY BROTHER, has traveled to 70 countries—most of them solo—but his expedition to New Zealand's South Island only fortified his belief that 'every single human being simply wants to be seen, empowered, and loved.' Traveling by rail offers solo adventure-seekers the opportunity to reach Aotearoa—the Indigenous Māori name for New Zealand. White recommends two one-day excursions: the Coastal Pacific train from the Marlborough wine region to Christchurch or the Tranzalpine trainthat bisects the island from Christchurch in the east to Greymouth on the wild West Coast. Solo travelers looking to connect with local cultures have plenty of opportunities with Māori family-owned businesses like Whale Watch Kaikoura or a day with Te Rua & Sons Pounamu Tours to explore the West Coast and perhaps to find a pounamu keepsake, a jade-like stone indigenous to the region. Also in the West, White recommends Te Waonui Forest Retreat near Franz Josef Glacier for easy access to forest hikes or a thrilling helicopter ride to the glacier. In Mexico City, Jen Tenzer, a travel specialist focusing on solo travel, found a new friend through Airbnb Experiences, where local guide Ricardo Lopez Nacif took her on a tour of his favorite taco spots, followed by a Lucha Libre match and late-night salsa dancing. 'If I had joined Ricardo's tour with friends, we likely would have ended his wonderful tour and gone about our day independently,' says Tenzer. 'Instead, because I was alone, I was open to the possibility of a surprising new experience.' For a stunning stay with views and easy access to the city's historic center, consider Zócalo Central. In a bustling locale like Mexico City, Tenzer believes balance is key. 'It's important to plan at least one key activity each day so that your solo trip doesn't become too lonely, curled up alone in your hotel room,' she says. Tenzer also suggests registering your trip with the U.S. State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). For more solo-worthy discoveries, solo travelers should consider visiting MODO, a boutique museum collection of over 140,000 objects and ephemera dating back centuries, located in the Roma neighborhood. Travel to Japan has surged recently, fueled by an increased interest in winter sports and strong yen currency conversion. While hubs like Kyoto, Tokyo, and Osaka have plenty to offer, solo travelers may find a multi-day walking expedition more aligned with their crowd tolerance. Walk Japan, which has been leading small group (maximum 12) and self-guided tours for more than 30 years, saw a 27 percent increase in solo travelers in 2024 compared to the previous year. Wayfarer self-guided tours provide logistical and route support for five- to seven-day journeys. Longer walks like the Nakasendo Way, an 11-day journey along the ancient trade route from Kyoto to Edo (modern-day Tokyo), include stopovers in small postal towns at ryokans, which are traditional Japanese inns. Specialized, bilingual guides take the pressure off of navigating unfamiliar territory while facilitating an authentic cultural immersion. (Related: Is the cruise industry ready for the rise in solo travel?) Matthew Wexler is an award-winning editor and writer. He is a member of the New York Travel Writers Association and a contributing editor at GayCities. His work has appeared in Hemispheres, Passport Magazine, Travel Weekly, and ShermansTravel. Follow him at @wexlerwrites.
National Geographic
08-04-2025
- National Geographic
7 destinations for solo travelers, from iconic cities to remote islands
A solo getaway offers the ideal opportunity to immerse oneself in the authentic culture, history, and expression of a particular destination. There are no limits to where inspiration may take you, nor should there be. Whether it's a Michelin-starred meal or an adrenaline-inducing adventure, with some planning and expert advice, your next solo journey can reach new heights. A walk on the Wilde side in Dublin There may be no better combination than a pint and a good book—and no better destination to imbibe in said lager and literature than Oscar Wilde's birthplace, Dublin, Ireland. Art and cultural historian Dr. Andrew Lear, a scholar of Wilde's work, suggests a hotel with historical significance. 'I highly recommend The Shelbourne, where Oscar Wilde stayed when on a speaking tour in Dublin,' says Lear. Leave room in your suitcase for your literary conquests, whether they be budget-friendly used copies from Chapters Bookshop or one-of-a-kind finds at Ulysses Rare Books. Take your book to a pub with a snug (a private room or alcove), like those found at The Waterloo, featuring natural light and people-watching on Baggot Street. For an afternoon adventure, Lear suggests riding the local DART train along Dublin Bay to Dalkey (20 minutes) to visit the tower where much of James Joyce's Ulysses takes place. Big dreams fulfilled on Petit St. Vincent If the idea of an all-inclusive resort sounds appealing but the throngs of guests not so much, consider a respite to the private island of Petit St. Vincent, located 40 miles south of St. Vincent. Getting there is an adventure, including a private flight from Barbados to Union Island and a boat transfer. The 115-acre island features secluded one- and two-bedroom cottages dotted throughout the grounds where visitors can get lost in the sound of gentle waves undulating toward the coastline. Solo travelers can experience the turquoise water and coral reefs that surround Petit St. Vincent Resort, located on the southernmost private island in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Mini Mokes are the only motorized transportation used across the island of Petit St. Vincent. The Petit St. Vincent Resort's main dining room sits atop a tiny hill overlooking the water. Alfresco Balinese-inspired spa treatments, yoga, and complimentary snorkeling gear make filling the day a breeze. For those seeking more adventure, utilize the on-site dive center or book a sailing adventure to a nearby island like Tobago Cays. Declared an official wildlife reserve in 2006, the marine park is a snorkeler's dream, featuring a bounty of tropical fish, sea turtles, and coral reefs. Scuba diving instructors provide training to resort guests before diving at the reefs near Petit St. Vincent Resort in the Grenadines. (Related: Six things travel teaches you.) Hygge hunting in Copenhagen If 'hygge'—the elusive Danish definition of well-being—is your idea of an enticing getaway, Copenhagen ranks high for its thoughtful aesthetic and design. Denmark's capital is the ideal locale to spend an afternoon coffeehouse-hopping with a stack of design magazines or wandering along Jægersborggade, a small residential street that's evolved into a cultural hub with art galleries, wine bars, and a seasonal flea market. Nobody knows this better than Nikoline Dyrup Carlsen, architect and founder partner of the Copenhagen-based cross-disciplinary design and architecture studio SPACON & X, whose projects include two-starred Michelin restaurant AOC and contemporary Nordic brewery Folk Kombucha. 'My personal hot spot in Copenhagen is Hart Bakery in Mærsehuset, Holmen,' says Carlsen. 'I absolutely love this old maritime, red-stained house by the water! [It] has terraces on both sides, making it well-fitted for all times of day.' Based in Copenhagen, The FRAMA Studio Store features its multi-disciplinary brand that encompasses furniture, lifestyle objects, self-care, and fragrances that encourage mindful living. With an emphasis on natural materials and uncompromising quality, FRAMA's work celebrates craftsmanship, resulting in a timeless and honest aesthetic. Photograph courtesy FRAMA Solo travelers can also visit the HAY House flagship store located in the heart of Copenhagen. The design brand, HAY creates high-quality furniture, lighting, and accessories that are long-lasting and affordable, in collaboration with the best designers from around the world. She can also spend hours at HAY House's flagship store on Østergade. After checking out the top-floor showroom, Carlsen recommends visiting the roof terrace overlooking the city for peaceful contemplation. To bring a bit of hygge home, she visits the FRAMA Studio Store 'as frequently as possible' to discover the latest Danish design. Where to grab a mellow meal in New Orleans Bourbon Street isn't exactly the quiet respite most travelers think of when considering a solo escape. Still, the Crescent City offers plenty of hidden gems that pay tribute to its culturally rich cuisine and cocktail culture. Cane and Table, located a few blocks east of bustling Jackson Square, offers historically inspired rum-centric drinks like the Hurricane & Table prepared with homemade Fassionola fruit syrup or a spicy Bloody Mary topped with a pile of vinegary chowchow. At Cane & Table, Chef Alfredo Nogueira and staff serve up rum-based cocktails and seasonal menu items inspired by Caribbean flavors with Cuban influences. His culinary style fuses traditional Cuban cooking with the culinary traditions common to chefs in New Orleans. Photograph by Randy Schmidt, Cane and Table For a refined dining setting that pays homage to the city's historic taverns, Jewel of the South's seasonal menu reimagines pub food where a solo traveler could slink into a cozy corner. (Leave the book at home as the dim lighting and potent cocktails make for better people-watching.) Check into Blackbird Hotel for a serene night's sleep just steps from the Garden District's Magazine Street. This hotel offers 13 uniquely designed rooms, whether you're looking for bright and airy or a deeply saturated enclave with the rustle of oak leaves outside your window. (Related: 6 of the world's most remote destinations to test your inner adventurer.) Rail routes and Māori magic on New Zealand's South Island Ernest White II, executive producer and host of FLY BROTHER, has traveled to 70 countries—most of them solo—but his expedition to New Zealand's South Island only fortified his belief that 'every single human being simply wants to be seen, empowered, and loved.' Traveling by rail offers solo adventure-seekers the opportunity to reach Aotearoa—the Indigenous Māori name for New Zealand. White recommends two one-day excursions: the Coastal Pacific train from the Marlborough wine region to Christchurch or the Tranzalpine trainthat bisects the island from Christchurch in the east to Greymouth on the wild West Coast. Solo travelers looking to connect with local cultures have plenty of opportunities with Māori family-owned businesses like Whale Watch Kaikoura or a day with Te Rua & Sons Pounamu Tours to explore the West Coast and perhaps to find a pounamu keepsake, a jade-like stone indigenous to the region. Also in the West, White recommends Te Waonui Forest Retreat near Franz Josef Glacier for easy access to forest hikes or a thrilling helicopter ride to the glacier. Street eats and city views in Mexico City In Mexico City, Jen Tenzer, a travel specialist focusing on solo travel, found a new friend through Airbnb Experiences, where local guide Ricardo Lopez Nacif took her on a tour of his favorite taco spots, followed by a Lucha Libre match and late-night salsa dancing. 'If I had joined Ricardo's tour with friends, we likely would have ended his wonderful tour and gone about our day independently,' says Tenzer. 'Instead, because I was alone, I was open to the possibility of a surprising new experience.' For a stunning stay with views and easy access to the city's historic center, consider Zócalo Central. In a bustling locale like Mexico City, Tenzer believes balance is key. 'It's important to plan at least one key activity each day so that your solo trip doesn't become too lonely, curled up alone in your hotel room,' she says. Tenzer also suggests registering your trip with the U.S. State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). For more solo-worthy discoveries, solo travelers should consider visiting MODO, a boutique museum collection of over 140,000 objects and ephemera dating back centuries, located in the Roma neighborhood. A self-guided walk through ancient Japan Travel to Japan has surged recently, fueled by an increased interest in winter sports and strong yen currency conversion. While hubs like Kyoto, Tokyo, and Osaka have plenty to offer, solo travelers may find a multi-day walking expedition more aligned with their crowd tolerance. Walk Japan, which has been leading small group (maximum 12) and self-guided tours for more than 30 years, saw a 27 percent increase in solo travelers in 2024 compared to the previous year. Wayfarer self-guided tours provide logistical and route support for five- to seven-day journeys. Longer walks like the Nakasendo Way, an 11-day journey along the ancient trade route from Kyoto to Edo (modern-day Tokyo), include stopovers in small postal towns at ryokans, which are traditional Japanese inns. Specialized, bilingual guides take the pressure off of navigating unfamiliar territory while facilitating an authentic cultural immersion. (Related: Is the cruise industry ready for the rise in solo travel?) Matthew Wexler is an award-winning editor and writer. He is a member of the New York Travel Writers Association and a contributing editor at GayCities. His work has appeared in Hemispheres, Passport Magazine, Travel Weekly, and ShermansTravel. Follow him at @wexlerwrites.
