Travelling alone has never stopped Lourdes Plagens from exploring the world.
As owner of Brisbane’s Affordable Travel, Lourdes often flies solo to come up with new recommendations for her clients.
So far, her job has taken her to over 50 countries.
A study by Roy Morgan research revealed that more and more over 50s Aussies are holidaying on their own.
If you’re getting itchy feet, and not too concerned about the budget, Lourdes recommends going to England.
Having tried travelling solo, with friends and in tours, Lourdes suggests joining a group to get the most out of your time abroad.
Perry Morcombe’s first taste of travelling was a working holiday to Europe as a young man.
He’s since had to put his travel plans on hold for 20 years until his children were older.
Perry now runs the Seniors Holiday Travel Team in Brisbane.
He names New Zealand as one of the most popular summer destinations.
75-year-old Carole Ashted has been travelling solo for the past 15 years.
She’s visited over 20 countries joining escorted group tours at least twice a year.
Carole says this is a good way of meeting new people rather than being completely on her own.
Her summer destination choice is Hawaii.
Solo travellers are often asked to pay single supplements – a travel industry surcharge when they take a room alone.
Perry suggests finding a companion to share costs.
His company has been pairing travellers for the past 20 years.
Some have even become regular travel buddies.
Many Australians like going to Asia.
The 2012 International Movements Report by the ABS identified China, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and Hong Kong as part of the top 10 destinations for Aussie travellers.
Carole says she likes the affordability and diversity of Asia.
As for Lourdes Plagens, her favourite Asian stop is Taiwan.
If you’re thinking of travelling within Australia, she suggests going to Tasmania for the cooler weather over summer.
As for Perry Morcombe, Queensland’s Gold Coast is the place to be this summer.
The Australian Cruise Industry reported that the number of Aussie passengers setting sail reached over a million in 2015.
Lourdes Plagens says cruising is a great option for single travellers.
