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Travel + Leisure
3 days ago
- Health
- Travel + Leisure
I'm a Paranoid Traveler Despite Having Been to 30+ Countries—but These 13 Safety Devices Give Me Peace of Mind
I have lived in New York City my entire life, so you'd think I feel safe traveling just about anywhere. But despite spending over four decades in one of the world's most famous metropolitan cities, I still get pretty paranoid in my work as a food and travel writer. I love traveling. But as much as I enjoy these experiences, I'm also acutely aware of what can go wrong on the road, especially as a solo traveler. Maybe it's my NYC street smarts disguised as travel anxiety, but I've learned to be vigilant about personal safety, identity theft, and protecting my devices from data breaches. If you're gearing up for your next big adventure, it's smart to plan for all the fun—delicious food, great sights, and unforgettable memories. But it's just as smart to prep for the not-so-fun stuff. That's why I always travel with a few tried-and-true travel safety essentials. On long travel days, I'm constantly scanning for power outlets before my phone dies. But public charging stations can come with hidden risks. 'Juice jacking' is when hackers exploit USB ports to install malware or steal data, and it's a real threat. This simple tool allows you to safely charge your devices without exposing your data. It works with iPhones, Androids, tablets, and most USB gadgets. One reviewer said, 'I use these at hotels, on airplanes, and when I don't want my phone transferring data to a rental car. Easy and effective.' This sleek laptop backpack checks all the boxes. It's spacious, lightweight, and built with anti-theft features like combination-lock zippers and an external USB port—so you won't have to unzip the bag to stay connected. One reviewer called it 'the best backpack ever,' adding that 'it's secure, durable, and the slim fit makes it easy to carry without feeling bulky.' These slim sleeves might look like simple card covers, but they're an essential line of defense against digital theft. RFID-blocking technology shields your credit cards, IDs, and passports. 'I had to replace multiple cards due to unauthorized charges,' wrote one reviewer. 'These sleeves give me peace of mind.' As a digital nomad, I rely heavily on public Wi-Fi, and that comes with risks. This compact travel router boosts cybersecurity by creating a secure, private connection. 'This will make business travel a lot easier,' said one reviewer. 'Now I can safely connect my laptop using the hotel's Wi-Fi without worry.' These multi-sized Faraday bags go beyond waterproofing. They also block Bluetooth, GPS, and RFID signals to keep everything from your phone to your passport secure. 'I tested Wi-Fi, cellular, and Bluetooth—these bags blocked all signals,' said one shopper, who promptly bought another set. Hidden cameras are, unfortunately, a real concern in hotel rooms and Airbnbs. This compact detector scans for hidden bugs, GPS trackers, or listening devices. 'I couldn't be happier,' said one reviewer. 'It's easy to use, very sensitive, and makes me feel much safer when traveling solo.' Money belts may feel old-school, but this RFID-blocking pouch is a smart, modern upgrade. Slim enough to wear discreetly, it has mesh pockets for cards, passports, and cash. One reviewer shared, 'It's comfortable even on hot, long travel days, and the organization is ideal.' Whether I'm writing in-flight or catching up on emails at a cafe, I don't want my screen exposed. This easy-to-attach privacy screen limits viewing angles, helping to keep my personal and financial info safe. One reviewer called it 'subtle yet sturdy,' and they love how easily it attaches via magnets. Power = safety. This fast-charging portable battery can get your phone to 50 percent in under 30 minutes—perfect for calling an Uber or accessing maps when you're far from a power outlet. With a built-in USB-C cable, it's compact and hassle-free. 'I bought two for overseas travel—sleek, powerful, and so convenient,' said one reviewer. Sometimes I find myself walking alone at night while traveling, and this compact safety alarm gives me peace of mind. Just pull the top pin to activate a siren and flashing light. 'It's a small step that makes a big difference,' said one traveler. 'I keep it on my keychain and bring it everywhere—gas stations, airports, even grocery stores.' Not every hotel room has a safe, and this portable lock box is a solid backup. It's great for securing passports, cash, and even small electronics. With a combination lock and sturdy design, it's a travel must-have—especially if you're hopping between accommodations or hostels. It's a travel conundrum: You want your luggage secure when it's out of sight—but it still needs to be accessible for TSA inspections. This lock does both. It's TSA-compliant, easy to set up, and built to last. The best part? It features an indicator that pops up if TSA has opened your bag, so you're never left wondering. Amazon shoppers rave about the thoughtful design and solid construction. 'Wow, just got a four-pack of these TSA locks and love the design,' wrote one reviewer. 'Easy to read, easy to set combination, easy to operate. Solid design, good looking, and even a pop-up indicator if a TSA agent opens one with their special tool.' From minor scrapes to unexpected mishaps, it pays to be prepared. This compact, well-stocked kit is perfect for travel—whether you're tossing it in your suitcase or slipping it into a tote. It includes everything from bandages to burn relief, all packed in a cute, durable pouch. 'Exactly what I was looking for,' one Amazon reviewer noted. 'Perfect size, fits in my large purse, and has everything I might need. Plus, the bag is super cute. So worth it.' Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
The Sun
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Ten top solo holiday trips from Moroccan retreats and exotic islands to UK walking tours and no-fly cruising
DARE you fly solo? Imagine packing for a getaway just for you and heading off to wherever you choose in the world. You would be among an increasing number of people of all ages taking holidays alone. 4 There is a huge range of breaks at home and abroad for single travellers – from a walking tour, sailing the seas, or a desert retreat, to a canoe expedition, sunshine island adventure or bushcraft course. Trisha Harbord goes on a quest to find the ten top solo trips . . . WONDER OF WALKING A WALKING holiday is a perfect way to meet fellow enthusiasts while exploring the glorious British countryside on foot. After being greeted by a Solos Holidays guide for a welcome drink, you will meet up with fellow ramblers for a three-night stay at the New Ocean Hotel in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset. Your boots need to be made for walking over the next two days. But each trek is comfortably paced, lasting around two to three hours. You will take in stunning panoramic views over the Bristol Channel and landscapes of the Brean Down peninsular, and explore Weston Woods. Evenings are spent enjoying dinner and live entertainment. GO: Three nights' half-board in a single room with a free bar for four hours each evening, from October 3, costs from £499. See MAKING WAVES SAIL the seas with one of the cheapest cruise lines for solos. Ambassador is known for having the best value for singles sailing from the UK, with the lowest daily rate of £156. The liner has special-fare single-occupancy cabins. But book early, as they are popular. Join the Viking Heritage Tour no-fly cruise along the Norse trade routes, calling at Sweden's Gothenburg, Denmark's Copenhagen and Norway's Oslo and Kristiansand, aboard Ambience from London Tilbury. Guided excursions are available to explore the beautiful cities. The 1,400-guest ship has bars, restaurants, a wellness centre, pool and entertainment including an outdoor movie screen. There are dance and fitness classes, and guest speakers. GO: Eight nights' full-board for a solo guest in ocean-view cabin is from £1,009. For details, see 4 COMMUNITY SPIRIT EXPLORE the world with a G Adventures holiday, just for go-it-alones. Its Solo-ish Adventures feature 33 trips to destinations including Costa Rica, India, Peru, South Africa and Vietnam, interacting with local communities. There are female-only leaders, free arrival transfers so that travellers feel safe and looked after, and welcoming experiences so a group of strangers can get to know one another. There is also 'me time' for anyone wishing to explore on their own. An 11-day tour of Vietnam, from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, includes enjoying stunning scenery, historic sites, bustling markets and activities such as a junk-boat cruise and noodle-making class. GO: Solo-ish Vietnam including B&B, some lunches and dinners, and flights from the UK in August, costs from around £2,050. For further details see JUST FOR YOU THE world's your oyster with solo specialists Just You. From a trip to Namibia, to a city break in Edinburgh, the company has been uniting solos for nearly 25 years. Italy is a favourite destination, with several itineraries to choose from. On an eight-day break, you can enjoy a guided tour of the historical site of Pompeii, the seaside resort of Sorrento, a limoncello farm and the beautiful Bay of Naples. You'll get to stay in the 4H Hotel Palma – once an elegant 19th-century villa – with a solarium, hot tub and large terrace looking out at famed volcano Vesuvius. GO: Seven nights' B&B, including some meals, welcome drink, tours and farewell get-together, costs £1,999, flying from Heathrow on June 17. See ESCAPE the stresses of everyday life and head into the serene Moroccan countryside for a rejuvenating getaway. You'll stay with Amana Retreats in a private property nestled in olive groves and set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Atlas Mountains and Agafay Desert. There's a pool, walking trails, sun-drenched terraces and quiet corners perfect for relaxing and reflection. Enjoy two daily yoga sessions – open to all levels – blending ancient wisdom with modern science, alongside sound-healing, breathwork and nutrition workshops. Afternoons offer time to unwind by the pool, explore the souk or join the yoga and other sessions at the retreat. Special menus feature nourishing, locally sourced alkaline meals and fresh juices to support your wellbeing. CITY SLICKER HAVE a cracking time on a city break to Krakow, with a guided tour from Riviera Travel. The Polish city's old town, within ancient walls, is one of the treasures of Europe and listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site. In 2000, it was also named European Capital of Culture. Krakow is Poland's second-largest city and was the country's capital until 1795. It has the largest medieval market square in Europe. Or you can see 15th-century painting Lady With An Ermine, by Leonardo da Vinci, in the museum, and discover the underground market below Cloth Hall. The four-day trip is guided by an experienced tour manager. Upon arrival, you'll be treated to a welcome dinner so you can get to know other guests, in a group of up to 25. GO: Three nights' B&B in the 4H Novotel Krakow Centrum, with flghts from various UK airports including Manchester on November 14 and transfers, costs from £869. See DREAM ISLAND SUN-kissed Bali is one of the planet's most welcoming islands, so it's perfect for solos. Immerse yourself in Indonesian culture by eating delicious street food, meeting traditional fabric weavers, watching a dance performance and visiting a temple. Intrepid's Beautiful Bali guided trip will also give you the chance to hike Mount Batur for a sunrise view across the Lombok Strait, and visit Undisan village in the hills. Other activities include cycling and snorkelling but there's also plenty of free time, when you can explore on your own or in the group and relax on the beach or in hot springs. GO: Nine days including accommodation, transport, selected meals and activities, costs from £561. Multiple departures until December. Return flights from the UK cost around £845. See HIT THE ROAD SIT back and relax on a coach tour of one of the UK's most stunning coastlines. Shearings is offering more trips for single travellers, with no room supplements, owing to increased demand. The five-day Holy Island and Northumbrian Coast tour, travelling through stunning countryside with wonderful sea views, includes four nights at the Leonardo Newcastle in the buzzing city. You'll visit Alnwick Castle, the Unesco World Heritage site of Durham and the pretty seaside resort of Seahouses. At low tide, you'll be driven over the causeway from the village of Beal to Lindisfarne, known as Holy Island because it was a birthplace of Christianity with a monastery founded in 635AD. GO: Half-board from October 6, with coach departure points across the UK, costs from £629. See 4 AQUA FUN THE clue is in the name – Adventure Solos. Fully-hosted breaks and day trips offered by founder Chris Bone include canoeing, hiking, map- reading and rock-climbing. Designed for people in their thirties to fifties, the itineraries are all beginner-friendly. The five-day Canoe Scotland holiday is a 60-mile expedition across the spectacular great glens, navigating canals and lochs including famed Loch Ness, from west to east. Along the way, you'll be able to enjoy wild-swimming and camping under the stars on loch shores. You can either take your own tent or hire it from Adventure Solos, who also advise on what food to bring along. GO: Expedition departs from Banavie, near Fort William, on June 30 and costs from £795, including canoe equipment. See GOING WILD LOVERS of the outdoors who fancy giving Bear Grylls a run for his money can join an advanced bushcraft course. Wild Human's four-night Native break teaches skills such as food-foraging, friction fire-lighting, preparing game, smoking meat and making fishing equipment. You'll also learn how to carve safely with an axe, make pitch glue and bark-craft baskets. Accommodation is in your own tent, pitched in a private woodland close to Windermere in the Lake District. But the course, for up to 14 people, is fully catered so you'll be tucking into nutritious, seasonal local food and there's a few luxuries including a pizza oven and sauna. It's one of a number of Wild Human challenging solo expeditions, at home and abroad.
CNN
4 days ago
- Business
- CNN
Solo flyers on US flights can pay much more than those traveling as a pair, report finds
Solo travelers have long faced higher prices when it comes to group tours and it seems that the so-called 'single supplement' is being applied to flights as well. Three of the biggest US airlines have been charging higher fares for solo flyers on some domestic routes, according to a recent investigation by consumer travel website Thrifty Traveler. Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and American Airlines are all currently charging what some are describing as 'a tax on single travelers' on certain routes, Thrifty Traveler's analysis found, with a fare doubling in at least one instance. Kyle Potter, executive editor of Thrifty Traveler, explained how he noticed a significant price difference while searching for a Delta Air Lines flight to New York for one passenger and then adding a second passenger and completing a new search. While the amount for a flyer traveling solo was $206, this decreased to $154 when two passengers were traveling together, Potter told CNN's Kaitlan Collins. 'That's not how airfare typically works,' he said. 'It's usually the reverse.' Potter said he noticed the same thing was happening on 'dozens' of different domestic routes on Delta, along with United Airlines and American Airlines, adding that the practice is 'not widespread.' When approached by CNN, Delta said that the fare structures were not new to Delta or the airline industry, but declined to provide an official comment. CNN has approached United Airlines and American Airlines for comment. Examples found by Thrifty Traveler included a one-way United Airlines flight from Chicago to Asheville, NC, listed as $223 for one passenger, which fell to $207 in total for two passengers, meaning that it was actually cheaper for two people to travel than a passenger going solo. Meanwhile, a one-way flight with American Airlines from Charlotte, NC to Fort Myers, FL in October was listed as $422 for one passenger traveling solo, but dropped to around $266 per person when two passengers were traveling together. The discrepancies were 'almost exclusively' found on one-way routes, according to Thrifty Traveler's investigation. 'It is not widespread,' Potter said, pointing out that he was unable to find any instances of this pricing structure on international flights. 'It's pretty hit or miss. But this is undeniable that it's happening.' While reports of the price discrepancies may come as a surprise to some passengers, Potter points out airlines have been 'writing this into their fare rules.' For example, Delta's fine print outlines 'accompaniment restrictions,' on some of its fares, stating that travelers 'must be accompanied on all sectors in same compartment by at least 1 adult.' Meanwhile, United Airlines advises that passengers 'must be accompanied on all sectors in same compartment by at least 1 adult 15 or older' for some of its fares. Brian Kelly, founder of ThePointsGuy, told Collins that the fare discrepancies seemed 'deceptive,' as not all passengers would be aware of the cost difference. 'I think the airlines need to be careful here, because if they continue prodding and poking consumers, you're just asking for government regulation,' he said. 'And often no one wins when that happens.'
Vogue
27-05-2025
- Health
- Vogue
The Rise of the Solorette: Why Brides Are Taking Themselves on a Solo Bachelorette
It's the time of year when bachelorette season is in full swing. The pre-wedding celebration with friends has long been a rite of passage—and in recent years, it's become a full-fledged event, complete with themed itineraries, matching outfits, and Instagram-ready backdrops. But a growing number of brides are quietly opting out of the group trip altogether or adding another one to the mix, embracing a new kind of send-off: the solorette, or solo bachelorette. Equal parts solo retreat and personal reset, the solorette is a one-woman bachelorette designed for reflection, indulgence, and a little solitude before the big day. So what's driving this shift—and could the solo bachelorette be the new bridal essential? According to Fora travel advisor Rachel Havens, the rise of the solorette is part of a much broader change in how women—and especially brides—are thinking about travel. 'There's been a noticeable shift toward solo travel, especially among brides who want to carve out intentional time for themselves before the wedding,' says Havens. 'Whether it's a wellness retreat, a reset trip, or simply a chance to reflect before the big day, more clients are embracing the idea that celebrating yourself can start with a solo adventure. It also takes the pressure off trying to coordinate with everyone else's schedules and preferences—there's something really freeing about planning a trip that's 100% for you.' Kristine Thomason, a lifestyle journalist, experienced that firsthand when she went on a solo trip before her nuptials in July 2024—a month before her wedding in August 2024. She loved the idea of terming the trip a 'solorette' as opposed to a solo bachelorette. 'Rather than refer to it as the solo version of a bachelorette party, I wanted the occasion to have its own term and identity. So, I combined the words solo and bachelorette into 'solorette'—while it's incredibly simple, something about mashing the words together seemed to give it the same kind of fun, joyful energy as a bachelorette,' she says. While also partaking in a traditional 'bachelorette,' Thomason wanted to have a trip pre-wedding that emphasized reflection and moving into a different way of living, from solo to partnered. 'To me, it felt like a missing puzzle piece in pre-wedding culture: It's easy to get swept up in all the excitement, but I also think it's crucial to be mindful and clear as we enter this new chapter,' she says.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Solo travel is on the rise, and hotels are responding
Hotels worldwide are redesigning their offerings to better accommodate solo travellers, a group that is steadily growing across age ranges. Industry forecasts show nearly 10% annual growth in solo travel through 2030, driven by millennials, Gen Z, and retirees alike. This shift is prompting hotels to rethink their approach, with many now prioritising safety, flexible room design, and built-in social opportunities for guests travelling alone. For years, the hospitality industry catered primarily to couples and families. However, solo travellers are no longer an afterthought. 2024 survey found that 59% of travellers plan to take a solo trip, and hotels are responding with targeted amenities and design changes. At the Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport, the Artist Tower offers sleek, open-concept rooms designed to resemble modern studio apartments. 'It's perfect for someone travelling alone,' said Leon Bolivar, the hotel's Director of Marketing. Across the Atlantic, The Hoxton hotels have introduced compact "Shoebox" rooms for single occupancy, along with open lobbies and curated local events to foster social interaction among guests. Marriott's Moxy Hotels have replaced traditional check-ins with casual bar counters and host regular communal events, specifically catering to solo travellers seeking informal ways to connect. Safety remains a top concern, especially among younger and female solo travellers. Some hotels are offering measures like optional phone check-ins, staff training for approachability, and increased monitoring of public spaces. Bella Bucchiotti, a solo traveller and writer, described how a Paris hotel's proactive contact during her trip provided reassurance in an unfamiliar setting. Community-focused dining is also gaining popularity. At the Omni Boston, solo diners can join group wine tastings and trivia nights at on-site restaurants, while other brands like Freehand Hotels and Moxy feature bar seating and casual layouts that remove the stigma of eating alone. Hotels are also integrating programming that gives solo guests structured ways to explore and connect. The Omni Boston doubles as an art gallery and offers rooftop fitness classes and seasonal events. This summer, the hotel is launching a package featuring solo-friendly activities, including boat tours and museum visits. Eaton DC and Kimpton Hotels offer similar experiences with a focus on wellness and culture, including yoga sessions and wine hours, which serve as informal meetups for guests. These low-pressure environments are designed to give solo travellers the choice to engage socially without obligation. The rise in solo travel shows no signs of slowing, and hotels are increasingly tailoring their experiences to meet this demand. Features like private yet sociable spaces, safe environments, and inclusive events are becoming standard in the effort to meet expectations. Bolivar notes that feedback from solo guests has directly influenced new initiatives. 'The Artist Tower was built with solo travellers in mind, and the positive response has helped us expand our programming,' he said. As solo travel becomes more mainstream, the hotel industry's evolution signals a broader shift: travelling alone no longer means being left out. "Solo travel is on the rise, and hotels are responding" was originally created and published by Hotel Management Network, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
