Affluent solo travellers are embracing high-end holidays that blend adventure with luxury

Solo travel is no longer the domain of young backpackers on tight budgets. Increasingly, affluent travellers of an older generation are embracing the freedom, flexibility, and indulgence of luxurious solo adventures.

With more disposable income and a desire for enriching experiences, solo travellers are swapping the traditional hostel stays for curated, high-end escapes. Friendship Travel, the UK’s leading solo travel brand, is at the forefront of this growing trend, offering a diverse range of hosted holiday packages for those seeking to explore on their own, without compromising on comfort or style.

Friendship Travel’s meticulously crafted trips cater to solo travellers looking to experience multiple destinations in one holiday while enjoying all the perks of luxury. These itineraries combine the excitement of moving from place to place—much like traditional backpacking—but with the added allure of premium accommodation, seamless transportation, and exclusive experiences.

Below are three of their standout offerings: an awe-inspiring Kenyan Safari & Beach adventure, a lively Scotland & Ireland Whisky Tasting Tour, and a stunning Bali Triple Centre escape. Each promises a unique combination of adventure, relaxation, and luxury, with every detail expertly managed by Friendship Travel’s experienced hosts.

Kenyan Safari & Beach

Eka Hotel Nairobi, Ngtuni Lodge, Voyager Ziwani, Kilaguni Serena Lodge, Papillon, Lagoon Reef Hotel, Kenya – Trips departing from February 2025 – Eight nights from £2575pp

Kenya is the original safari destination, and, in our opinion, there is no better place to see wildlife. This world-class trip combines safari and natural surroundings with beachside relaxation and turquoise oceans. Hosted by a knowledgeable Kenyan team, guests will gain insights into the region’s wildlife, with chances to see buffalo, elephants, crocodiles, and more.

Accommodation includes the modern Eka Hotel in Nairobi, Ngutuni Lodge overlooking a wildlife watering hole, Kilaguni Serena Lodge with views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and Voyager Ziwani Tented Camp in Tsavo West. The journey concludes with a stay at the recently refurbished Papillon Lagoon Reef Hotel on Diani Beach, offering all-inclusive luxury and modern facilities.

The itinerary features a visit to the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and a game drive in Nairobi National Park before travelling by train to Tsavo East and West for further game drives and nature walks. The adventure ends with a few days of relaxation at the beachside Papillon Lagoon Reef Hotel, before returning to Nairobi for the flight home.

What’s included:

All transfers and transport within Kenya
1 night Eka Hotel Nairobi airport on B&B basis
1 night Ngutuni Lodge including all meals
1 night Ziwani Tented Camp including all meals
1 night Kilaguni Serena Lodge
3 nights total at Papillon Lagoon Reef Hotel on all-inclusive basis, with all meals plus drinks by the glass, and activity programme including water-sports.
Visit to the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage
3 game drives
1 guided wildlife walk
First Class train ticket between Nairobi and Voi station.
Flight from Mombassa to Nairobi
Services of local Friendship Travel Hosts and wildlife guides.
ATOL-bonded direct flights from Heathrow. Regional add on’s to Heathrow are available – please ask.

Scotland & Ireland Whisky Tasting Tour

Trip departs on 4th June 2025 and 27th August 2025 from £3,185 per person

Launching in 2025, Friendship Travel is offering its inaugural Whisky Tasting Tour across Scotland and Ireland. Taking care of flights, this 6-night tour allows guests to sit back and take in the scenic landscapes and sights that surround them as they travel to some of the country’s best distilleries.

The trip begins in bustling Dublin with a tour of Teeling Distillery, the city’s first new distillery in over 125 years and a winner of 20+ awards. After a night in 4-star accommodations, the group will visit the historic Jameson Distillery, a symbol of Irish whisky.

The next day, they’ll take a first-class train to Belfast for a tour of McConnell’s Whisky Distillery, then stay overnight in the coastal village of Ballycastle. Following a relaxing evening, the group will take a ferry to Islay Island, Scotland’s “Whisky Isle,” known for its smoky whiskies. They’ll tour Bowmore and Bruichladdich distilleries over two days, before returning to Ballycastle to visit Bushmills, Ireland’s oldest distillery.

Guests will also have time to explore Dublin, Belfast, and Islay’s local attractions, including vibrant bars, restaurants, and natural scenery.

What’s included:

Rooms for sole use
6 Whisky tasting tours
Flights from preferred UK airport
All transfers by minibus and speedboat
First Class train journey from Dublin to Belfast
Breakfast everyday and 4 dinners
Host support throughout
Full use of hotel facilities

Bali – Triple Centre

Bali and Gili Island, Departing 14th November 2024 20th February 2025 and 20th June 2025– 13 nights from £2,975

With limited availability, this new trip from Friendship Travel is not to be missed. A magical, triple-centre holiday, guests will have the opportunity to truly explore everything Bali has to offer, from its cultural richness, serene landscapes, vibrant art scene and spiritual atmosphere.

The trip will kick off with 4-nights in Ubud, giving guests the chance to take in everything the city has to offer, delving into temples and exploring vibrant markets. After immersing in culture, guests will be whisked away on a boat trip to the Gili Islands for 6-nights to enjoy its breathtaking beaches and crystal clear waters before returning back to the mainland for 3-nights on Berawa Beach, with its trendy cafés and a last chance for any local shopping.

Staying in three incredible hotels, each one will offer a true taste of Bali.

Jati Cottage – a small boutique hotel located in Ubud and just 700 metres from Ubud Monkey Forest. Guests can take advantage of the outdoor pool and yoga barn.

Ombak Sunset Hotel – located on the secluded western side of Gili Trawangan, with just 154 rooms it offers a unique stay opportunity. This tropical paradise offers a quintessentially Indonesian atmosphere – guests will find peace and tranquillity and a chance to really step into nature and embrace the balancing atmosphere that Bali has to offer.

Citadines Berawa Beach – this 4-star hotel features two different pools, the ‘Earth pool’ and the rooftop ‘Sky pool’. Situated just 3 minutes from Berawa Beach along with a number of cafes, restaurants and bars.

What’s included:

· Double/twin room for sole use

· B&B with some dinners

· All transfers, between 90-240 minutes at various destinations

· Host support throughout

· ATOL-bonded flights from various UK airports

A Friendship Travel UK Host will be with guests throughout the trip. A dedicated point of contact in each hotel and on every step of the trip. Ensuring everything runs smoothly and helping with any additional bookings or requests.

Private Flights and Limo Services: The Perfect Pair for Luxury Travel Experiences