Solus magazine – issue 6

P R O M OT I O N

F I N D YO U R CO P Y O F S O L U S I N S I D E

T R AV E LLI N G SO LO

DOESN’T HAVE TO MEAN TR AVELLING ALONE

This experience will stay with me forever.

I can’t wait to book my next solo trip with Riviera Travel.

– Ms Guy

LE T OU R PA SS I O N INSPIRE YOU R SO LO A DV E N T U RE The thought of travelling alone can be daunting, but with Riviera Travel, you can rest assured that you’ll be taken care of at every step on our escorted tours.

Since 1984, we’ve been carefully curating holidays for customers, many of whom travel on their own, so we understand what makes your experience that extra bit special. We’re delighted to offer the same passionately curated holidays that our customers have come to love, especially for those who wish to travel solo.

Thoughtful inclusions with every solo holiday Insightful guided tours and visits Return UK flights and oversea transfers Outstanding tour managers and cruise directors Free time to explore We never discount our prices so you don’t have to A dedicated sales team available for support

ISSUE SIX

TAKE THE PLUNGE

GOING SOLO IN NEW ZEALAND

SKIING FOR SINGLES INFOCUS: JUST YOU HOW TO SELL: SOLO TRAVEL

F E AT U RE S | R O O M S E RVIC E M E NU | SHOR E EXCU R SI ON S

Explore

GLOBE

ISSUE ONE

Issue One

PREVIEW EDITION

December 2016

D E C E M B E R 20 16

WATERMARK YOUR GUIDE TO THE BEST HOLIDAYS IN THE WORLD

WHY ARE CRUISES M A K I N G WAV E S ?

SAILING SOLO O F F T H E B E AT E N T R AC K WHY ARE CRUISES M A K I N G WAV E S ?

SAILING SOLO O F F T H E B E AT E N T R AC K

FJORD FOCUS A JOURNEY TO WEST NORWAY

Give back with trips that support the local host communities

Travel industry insights / September 2018

Roam Russia

Discover the grand delights of St Petersburg and Moscow year-round

New routes

Low-cost carriers are mapping their way in long-haul airspace

EMERALD WATERWAYS AN IN-DEPTH LOOK

WONDERFUL WORLD FOUR BUCKET-LIST STOPS

Solus

I SSU E 0 N E

thevillagepost Amazing Grace Introducing Tauck’s new ship on the mighty Rhine

Turning the tide An in-depth look at MSC Cruises’ forthcoming Seaside

Issue two

A world of luxury We consider the benefits of all-inclusive river cruising

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SECRETS OF THE DOURO Explore the wonders of Porto with our new itinerary for 2017

MEET THE FLEET Introducing a trio of new ships: Emerald Radiance, Liberté and Destiny

RAISE A GLASS Enjoy the world’s finest wines during our new cruise on the Rhône

WHICH RIVER ARE YOU? Find out which Emerald Waterways cruise best suits your personality

thetravelvillage

Stepping lightly

ON THE HORIZON THE LATEST CRUISE NEWS

thecruisevillage

Buenos Aires Soak up the colour, culture and energy of Argentina’s pulsing capital – an unforgettable introduction to the sensual appeal of Latin America

CRUISE & MORE HOLIDAYS OF A LIFETIME

EMERALD EXPLORER

Eastern promises Sailing Asia’s majestic Mekong with APT Touring

thevillagepost American Queen A music-themed tour of the Deep South on the mighty Mississippi

Fire and ice Explore the Galápagos and Antarctica with our handy guide

Issue three

Capital concerns Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest with Scenic on the Danube

All around the world These epic cruises and flights will take you across the globe

Win!

vouchers

thevillagepost

in

thevillagepost

£100

THE GREAT BEYOND WHY TRAVELLERS OF ALL AGES ARE HEADING OUT ALONE

issue 3

issue 2

A new trade magazine from the team at cruise adviser

Issue three

Page 1

ISSUE TWO Issue two | Section Name

H E L P I N G YO U S E L L S O L O T R AV E L

FROM THE TEAM

SOLUS

AT

INDIAN SUMMER WE EXPLAIN WHY THE COUNTRY IS BACK ON THE MAP FOR SOLOS

THE ABTA MAGAZINE GUIDE TO

THE ABTA MAGAZINE GUIDE TO THE

THE ABTA MAGAZINE GUIDE TO

MURCIA

CARIBBEAN

CRUISE 2018

U By Uniworld Innovation at sea European river guide

Incredible cuisine Pulsating carnivals Authentic adventure

Discover Spain’s best kept secret

1

LUXURY GUIDE 2018

A Z A M A R A P U R S U I T | L E L A P É R O U S E | S P I R I T O F D I S CO V E R Y

C E L E B R I T Y E DG E | F R E D O L S E N R I V E R | B U DG E T C R U I S E

THE ONLY DESTINATION FOR THOSE SELLING CRUISES

THE ONLY DESTINATION FOR THOSE SELLING CRUISES

ISSUE THREE

PRE & POST GUIDE 2018

H E L P I N G YO U S E L L S O L O T R AV E L S E P T E M B E R 20 1 8

OC TO B E R 2018

WIN!

TO 9-DAY TRIP COSTA RICA WITH RETURN FLIGHTS p49

HIGH LIFE

ON THE HIGH SEAS The dazzling rise of luxury cruise

Fields of Bali

Island life

Sam Ballard sails on Star Clipper in Indonesia

T H E Y E A R I N R E V I E W | TO K YO | C L I A R I V E R CO N F E R E N C E

THE ONLY DESTINATION FOR THOSE SELLING CRUISES

THE ONLY DESTINATION FOR THOSE SELLING CRUISES

N O V E M B E R 20 1 8

THE ONLY DESTINATION FOR THOSE SELLING CRUISES

D E C E M B E R 20 1 8

CRUISE & MARITIME VOYAGES

AU R O R A E X P E D I T I O N S | R I T Z - C A R L TO N | C R Y S TA L R I V E R C R U I S E S

Anthony Pearce explores the Caribbean with Viking Cruises

HOW TO MAKE A CRUISE

EVEN BETTER

EXPRESS YOURSELF WHY RAIL HOLIDAYS ARE IN A CLASS OF THEIR OWN

The added extras that can transform your clients’ holidays

INFOCUS: G ADVENTURES DISPELLING SOLO TRAVEL MYTHS COACH TOURING IN AUSTRALIA

ISSUE FOUR

FEATURES | R O OM SERV ICE MENU | SHORE EXCUR SIONS

ISSUE TWO

GLOBE

THE ONLY DESTINATION FOR THOSE SELLING CRUISES

YO U R O N B OA R D M AGA Z I N E

M A R C H 201 8

JA N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 20 1 8

GLOBE

WIN!

Dive in Down Under

Sue Bryant sails on Celebrity Edge, the much hyped new ship that could change the future of cruise

A NIGHT ON MSC’S BRAND NEW SHIP BELLISSIM A

BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY

PARADISE FOUND We return to the Caribbean with P&O Cruises and find it very much open for business after last year’s hurricanes

PLUS HOW TO SELL: EX-UK PORTS OF CALL: COPENHAGEN WAVE: SPECIAL OFFERS ROUND-UP

EMPIRE OF THE SUN A TRIP DOWN MEXICO WAY 02

James Litston casts off with Coral Expeditions to encounter the rich, diverse marine life of the Great Barrier Reef

Edge of tomorrow

Jeannine Williamson joins CroisiEurope in the heart of Prague, before exploring the lesser-known Elbe en route to Berlin PLUS 10 OF THE BEST WILDLIFE CRUISES EXCLUSIVE RITZ-CARLTON INTERVIEW CRUISE & MARITIME VOYAGES IN AMSTERDAM

WATERFRONT CREATES BEAUTIFUL MAGAZINES FOR THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY. Email info@waterfront-publishing.com to find out more, or call 020 3865 9360.

BRILLIANT BANGKOK INFOCUS: INTREPID COACH VS CRUISE HOW TO SELL: SOLO TRAVEL

WHY THE THAI CAPITAL IS SO MUCH MORE THAN A BACKPACKER HAVEN

Issue six | Check-in

WELCOME

Solo travel is getting bigger… and better Welcome to the sixth edition of Solus – the only trade magazine dedicated to solo travel.

Since we launched Solus in 2016, the market for independent travel has grown exponentially, and we continue to cover the TAKE destinations, the hotels, the tour operators and THE the cruise lines that are embracing this part of PLUNGE the industry.

Although there is a huge desire for solo travel – as we demonstrate on p20, with our number-crunching infographic – there is still much room for improvement. Single supplements remain an issue across the travel industry, and we look forward to the days that more ships and hotels are built that have rooms specifically designed to accommodate singles. That said, there are some incredible operators out there who are dedicated to solo travel and we speak to one of the industry leaders, Just You, on p24 as part of our InFocus series.

This issue’s cover feature is New Zealand – a destination that has always attracted solo travellers. Sure, it’s a far away, but it’s also safe, friendly and breathtakingly beautiful. We think it should be on every solo traveller’s bucket list.

THIS MONTH WHAT WE LEARNT P12

ISSUE SIX

GOING SOLO IN NEW ZEALAND

SKIING FOR SINGLES INFOCUS: JUST YOU HOW TO SELL: SOLO TRAVEL

JAPAN IS GETTING MORE POPULAR The fact it is hosting both the Rugby World Cup and next year’s Olympics have helped boost numbers

P20

LONDON IS THE TOP SOLO DESTINATION The UK capital is ahead of Tokyo, Sydney, New York, Bangkok and Los Angeles for lone travellers

P30

SKIING ISN’T JUST A SOCIAL ACITIVITY There are a growing number of options available for people to get on the piste alone

SOLUSMAGAZINE.COM

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Issue six | Check-in

Contents Explore 24

InFocus: JustYou Sam Ballard speaks to Alistair Campbell, MD of the specialist solo tour operator which is looking long-term following its acquisition

by G Adventures

27

Adventure time Stuart Forster takes the plunge on an adrenalinefuelled trip around New Zealand – the ideal destination for solo travellers

30

Heaven up here Skiing is usually seen as a sociable pastime, but it is becoming increasingly popular with solo travellers. Sam Ballard looks at the options

34

How to Sell: Solo Travel To help match your solo clients to the correct holiday, Jane Archer rounds up the best options for lone travellers with differing demands and dosh Turn over for more

Solus is brought to you

by Waterfront Publishing

Solus goes off piste with Sam Ballard (p30); beautiful Barcelona (p34)

Sales executive Bryan Johnson bryan@waterfront-publishing.com 020 3865 9338 Sales manager Emily Norris emily@waterfront-publishing.com 020 3865 4815

Publisher Sam Ballard sam@waterfront-publishing.com Publisher Anthony Pearce anthony@waterfront-publishing.com

Graphic Designer Matthew Coles Sub-editors Nathaniel Cramp

Waterfront Publishing, 12-18 Hoxton Street, London N1 6NG info@waterfront-publishing.com 020 3865 9360 Solus is published twice a year by Waterfront Publishing Limited (registered number: 08707515).

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited

SOLUSMAGAZINE.COM

6

CRYSTAL WHERE LUXURY IS PERSONAL

LIGURIAN SEA MEDLEY ROUND-TRIP ROME | OCY190831-07 CRYSTAL SERENITY | 31 AUGUST 2019 | 7 NIGHTS

Michael Dupont

Head of Sales Tel: 07921 949469 mick@cruiseportfolio.co.uk

Natalie Read

Jon Schofield Regional Sales Manager North & Scotland Tel: 07841 921533 jon@cruiseportfolio.co.uk

Regional Sales Manager South Tel: 07896 971316 natalieread@cruiseportfolio.co.uk Cruise Only Solo Fares Deluxe Stateroom (C3 Grade)

from £2,677 per person

Deluxe Stateroom with Verandah (B3 Grade)

from £4,154 per person

Itinerary Highlights: Rome (Civitavecchia), Santa Margherita, Monte Carlo, St Tropez, Ajaccio, Livorno/Florence, Porto Venere and Rome (Civitavecchia).

Nan Short

Representative Northern Ireland & Eire Tel: 02890 642252 nanshort@btopenworld.com

Megan Saunders

Trade Sales Support Executive Tel: 020 7399 7602 megan@cruiseportfolio.co.uk

2018

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING, PLEASE CALL:

020 7399 7601

www.crystalcruises.co.uk

ABTA No.V8548

Fares are per person, cruise only in UK sterling based on solo occupancy in the specified stateroom grade and include port, security and handling charges, which vary by departure. All fares, offers and itineraries are subject to change and availability and can be withdrawn at any time. Fares may fluctuate and should be used as a guide only. Prices may go up or down. You should contact us on 0207 399 7601 before booking, or visit our website www.crystalcruises.co.uk. The fares are available to new bookings only and are only available to UK & Eire residents. Restrictions apply. See crystalcruises.co.uk for complete terms and conditions of all offers. ©2019 Crystal Cruises, LLC. Ships’ registry: The Bahamas.

Issue six | Check-in

CHECK-IN 3

Ed’s letter

10

News Acacia Africa launches its #WomenGoSolo campaign; Kuoni reveals its top 10 destinations for 2019; Gold Medal and Travel 2 see spike in Japan bookings; plus the Association of Independent Tour Operators urges government reassurances over Brexit confusion

20

Solo travel in numbers According to Agoda’s Solo Travel Trends 2018 survey, conducted by YouGov, travellers are choosing to go solo to take respite from the stresses of modern living

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Interview: Gavin Tollman Anthony Pearce talks to Gavin Tollman, CEO of Trafalgar and Costsaver, about the ways in which they make travel matter and their commitment to solos

Khama Rhino Sanctuary, Serowe, Botswana (p22)

DEPART 38

Directory Tour operator contact details all in one place

40

Games room While away your lunch break with the Solus crossword or sudoku, or try your hand at our quiz

42

Final word Sam Ballard looks at Kuoni’s 2019 Worldwide Travel Report, which revealed that 77 per cent of its customers would consider a solo holiday Email info@solusmagazine. com to share your thoughts SOLUSMAGAZINE.COM

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T R AV E L L I N G SO LO DOESN’T

HAVE TO MEAN TR AVELLING ALONE THE BLUE DANUBE RIVER CRUISE FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS 8 days from only £1,699pp

BRUGES FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS 4 days from only £389pp

CLASSICAL SPAIN – SEVILLE, CÓRDOBA & GRANADA FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS 7 days from £799pp

A GRAND TOUR OF CHINA FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS 16 days including Yangtze cruise from £3,639pp

CLASSICAL ITALY - FLORENCE, SIENA, ASSISI & ROME FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS 8 days from only £1,099pp

CRUISING THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS 15 days from only £2,799pp

CONTACT OUR AGENCY SALES TEAM: Call for support: 01283 744307 Email: agencysales@rivieratravel.co.uk

CALL RESERVATIONS 7 DAYS A WEEK: Call to book: 01283 744370 Book online: www.rivieratravel.co.uk/agents Cruising the Norwegian Fjords

ABTA No. V4744

Riviera Travel booking terms and conditions apply. Prices correct at time of print.

NEWS

Do you have a story for us?

Email info@waterfront-publishing.com

ACACIA AFRICA

#WomenGoSolo initiative launched

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Acacia Africa launched its #WomenGoSolo initiative on International Women’s Day (March 8) and shared content on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The operator is working with 14 solo female travel bloggers to encourage women to travel. Sabine Behrmann, Cape Town manager at Acacia Africa, encouraged agents to join. “By joining the conversation, agents will be helping to reinforce the idea

that solo female travel is achievable.

“They will also be creating connections in the social media sphere and positioning themselves as go-to contacts for the growing number of clients looking to book their next holiday as a solo traveller.

“There is a growing and vibrant community of solo female travellers online, and we are sure that our #WomenGoSolo initiative will inspire more clients.”

Google searches for the term ‘solo travel’ were up almost 10% year on year from 2017 to 2018 The numbers behind solo travel, see p20

JUST YOU Claire Sweeney named travel ambassador TV and stage star Claire Sweeney has become a travel ambassador for solo touring specialist Just You. Known for her roles in Brookside and in West End musicals, the actor will be featured in Just You marketing material, social media channels and at key trade events.

Alastair Campbell, Just You’s managing director, said: “We are very excited that Claire is joining the Just You team as our travel ambassador.

“Just like our customers, she has a passion for travel, a real sense of adventure and, while she enjoys being a solo traveller, Claire also loves sharing experiences on holiday with other people.“We know she will be extremely popular with our trade partners.”

Sweeney said: “My most memorable experience was when I went to Goa in the 1990s, before it was a popular destination,” “The hospitality was wonderful, and the people were beautiful. Just You offers the perfect holiday for me. I have a huge passion for travel, to see great places and countries that I have not been to.

“With Just You, I am able to travel solo while having the company of a group, but I can also go and explore on my own and then share the experience with the group later in the day.”

SOLUSMAGAZINE.COM

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We welcome solo travellers!

BOOK NOW Save up to

25%*

Small Ships

Shore Excursions

Over 27 Years Experience

Unique Itineraries

Wildlife Encounters

Expert Guides

27+ For the past 27 years Aurora Expeditions has led small-group, expedition-style travel to the polar regions and other wild and remote destinations. Our aim is to connect like-minded travellers with nature and wildlife, and offer unique experiences and activities in some of the world’s most inspiring regions. This includes intrepid areas such as Antarctica, the Arctic, Costa Rica, Scotland, Patagonia and more.

Join us on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and discover why Aurora Expeditions were voted #1 for the best itineraries in 2018 by Cruise Critic.

Cabin Mate Finding Service

Private Cabins

Avoid paying single supplement fees when travelling with us. Our cabin-sharing service was designed with solo travellers in mind, so that if willing, you have the chance to share a cabin with a fellow traveller of the same gender.

If you prefer your own cabin, you can book a sole occupancy cabin at a discounted rate. This applies to select 2019/20/21 Antarctica, Global and Arctic voyages aboard the Greg Mortimer ship. Pay only a 50% surcharge which, is combinable with our current early bird discount – a saving of up to 25%*

For more information and to book, contact your preferred wholesaler or Aurora Expeditions: Freecall 0 808 189 2005, email agents@auroraexpeditions.co.uk or visit www.auroraexpeditions.co.uk/europe-uk-agents *Terms & Conditions apply. Valid on select ship voyages only and select cabins. Offer is valid on new bookings only aboard the Greg Mortimer which must be booked and deposited by April 30, 2019, or until sold out, whichever comes first. Promotion is subject to availability at the time of booking and capacity controlled. The promotion is not available in conjunction with any other offer, can be withdrawn at any time and is not redeemable for cash. Normal booking terms and conditions apply.

Offers correct at time of printing and subject to change. For solo or triple share pricing please contact us. To confirm your booking, a completed booking form and non-refundable deposit of $2,500 pp in the booking currency is required within 7 days of reserved berth/s. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Please visit www.auroraexpeditions.co.uk/find-out-more/terms-and-conditions for full terms and conditions.

Issue six | Check-in

GOLD MEDAL / TRAVEL 2

Huge rise in bookings to Japan

MSC CRUISES New ship launched in Southampton ceremony

The Rugby World Cup and 2020 Olympics, plus new accommodation, have helped to increase interest Gold Medal and Travel 2 have recorded a 67 per cent year-onyear rise in bookings to Japan for January and February.

The dnata-owned tour operators said the coverage of the forthcoming Rugby World Cup and Olympics, both of which are set to take place in the country over the next two years, plus other new products, had seen sales soar.

Nick Hughes, sales director at Gold Medal and Travel 2, said: “Japan is the long-haul star at the moment.

“The country is getting a real boost because of its hosting of the upcoming Rugby World Cup, which begins in September, and then the Summer Olympics of 2020.

“Customer demand is definitely on the rise, with

a considerable increase in numbers over the last year.

“The whole country seems to have stepped up its activity and, as a result, there is so much brilliant new product to enjoy.”

He added: “The range of accommodation has increased and we have extended touring and day tours.

“Tokyo features on the majority of itineraries because most visitors picking Japan are going for the first time.

“We have seen Tokyo business leap 72 per cent. Room nights are up in Osaka (64 per cent) and Kyoto (75 per cent) as people head out to explore.

“For the Rugby World Cup (September/October), sales are up over 200 per cent on last year, demonstrating the draw of the tournament.”

MSC Cruises has officially launched its latest ship, MSC Bellissima, at an improvised ceremony in Southampton.

The proceedings, which had been taking place in a giant marquee next to the ship, were halted as the winds of Storm Freya descended on the Hampshire port.

Before then, the star-studded evening, which was being hosted by the TV presenter Holly Willoughby, saw performances by Andrea Bocelli and his son, Mateo; and a heart-stopping rendition of Cirque du Soleil’s exclusive onboard show.

Unfortunately the 2,500 guests did not get a chance to see Nile Rodgers, who had been due to perform towards the end of the ceremony.

Bellissima, which can hold up to 5,686 passengers, is the largest cruise ship to be launched in Southampton. The ship follows MSC Meraviglia in having a number of solo cabins.

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In September 2018, Waterfront, the publisher of ABTA Magazine and Cruise Adviser, launched a new creative agency. The Studio by Waterfront specialises in design solutions across print, web and social media. The Studio offers a tailored approach for all clients, with copywriting, proofreading and design elements available, in the following areas:

PRINT Catalogues, brochures, leaflets, exhibition stand designs and magazines

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ADVERTISING Billboards, newspaper and magazine creative advertising and advertorials

BRANDING Logos, brand identity, promotional videos, proofreading and copy writing

For more information, email info@waterfront-publishing.com

Issue six | Check-in

EXPLORE

Follow in famous footsteps New tours celebrate inspirational women Explore, the adventure travel specialist, is showcasing tours that celebrate “great women who changed the world”.

Explore said that guests on its guided tours can follow in the footsteps of inspirational women, including Mexican surrealist artist Frida Kahlo and nun and missionary Mother Teresa.

Explore’s 15-day Contrasts of Mexico trip includes a visit to the Blue House in Mexico City, where Kahlo lived. The tour also includes Oaxaca, Mayan

sites and jungles. It costs from £2,055 and includes return flights, internal transfers, 14 nights’ accommodation and an Explore Leader.

The operator’s 15-day Kolkata to Amritsar trip in India features a visit to Mother Teresa’s home and orphanage in Kolkata.

The tour also visits Amritsar’s Golden Temple, the birthplace of Buddhism in Bodh Gaya and the sacred Hindu city of

Varanasi. The trip costs from £1,745 and includes return flights, internal transfers, 14 nights’ accommodation and an Explore Leader.

In Ghana, the 14-day Kingdom of the Ashanti trip explores the story of Yaa Asantewaa who fought the British in a battle called the War of the Golden Stool.

The trips were announced to coincide with International Women’s Day.

AAT KINGS

Homeworking agents invited to coffee mornings AAT Kings, the Australia and New Zealand specialist, is inviting homeworking agents to a series of coffee mornings.

Sister brand Uniworld will join AAT Kings staff at some of the events.

Marlene Cursoux, sales development executive at AAT Kings, said the operator first held coffee mornings for homeworkers in London and Manchester last year.

Cursoux will attend the events at Brighton, Birmingham, Dublin and Belfast, and senior sales manager Heather Colbourn will be at Leeds, Glasgow, Newcastle and Bristol.

Uniworld will have James Howlett in attendance at Newcastle, Birmingham, Bristol and Leeds, while Brian Hynes will be on hand in Dublin.

The Dublin event takes place on March 25 at Belwey’s, Grafton Street.

The UK events in May are in Newcastle (May 2); Brighton, AAT Kings products only (May 3); Birmingham (May 9); Glasgow, AAT Kings products only (May 14); Belfast, AAT Kings products only (May 15); Bristol (May 21); and Leeds (May 23).

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FEATURES

Founded in 2014, CRUISE ADVISER brings together the most insightful commentary, news and analysis for those selling cruise holidays

You can find us at cruise-adviser.com (compatible with smartphone and tablet), on Twitter (@cruiseadviser) and Facebook

Printed 11 times a year, CRUISE ADVISER is aimed at front-line British travel agents and other sellers of cruises

Sign up for our monthly update for the chance to win prizes when selling cruises by emailing info@cruise-adviser.com

Issue six | Check-in

KUONI

Long-haul trips are up as people look beyond Europe for holidays Kuoni’s new Worldwide Travel Report also says that luxury beach breaks, escorted group tours and stay and cruise holidays are all in high demand It could be the year of the longhaul trip, according to Kuoni.

The operator said that longhaul holiday sales to a number of countries around the world are four per cent up, as people look beyond Europe for their travel plans this year.

As it published its Worldwide Travel Report, Kuoni said that nervousness around Britain’s exit from Europe remains one of the biggest conversations around booking a holiday.

It said that further afield destinations – which offer more reassurance alongside good quality all-inclusive options – are selling well.

It named the Maldives, Thailand and Sri Lanka among its top 10 destinations for 2019. Derek Jones, CEO of DER Touristik UK, parent

company of Kuoni, said: “With a news agenda dominated by the ongoing EU debate, many people are looking further afield than they may usually do. Holidays are not something people will forego easily. We’ve seen strong demand for longhaul countries, which seem to be cushioned from the worries people have around Europe.”

“While January remains the peak booking month for travel, there’s a strong indication that in 2019 we will see holiday sales, particularly for shorthaul destinations, more evenly spread throughout the year as people wait to understand more about what exiting the EU really means.”

Kuoni’s latest report looks at booking trends for premium travel destinations around

the world, with luxury beach breaks, escorted group tours and stay and cruise all in demand.

The Maldives remains top of the list of best-selling destinations, with an array of new resorts in the pipeline for the year ahead offering a broader mix of affordable luxury and top-end hotels.

Kuoni’s top 10 destinations for 2019 Maldives Sri Lanka Thailand Mauritius USA Indonesia (Bali) Italy India Vietnam South Africa

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Issue six | Check-in

AITO

Reassurance needed amid Brexit uncertainty

SAGA New agent training platform launched

Trade body calls on government to let consumers know that it is safe to make holiday bookings The Association of Independent Tour Operators has urged the government to reassure consumers that it is safe to make holiday bookings amid Brexit uncertainty.

There are fears that a no-deal scenario will lead to queues at airports and that only passports valid for a minimum of six months will be valid in Europe after the scheduled withdrawal date of March 29 .

Noel Josephides, director of the Association of Independent Tour Operators, said: “Consumers are looking at the Brexit mess and thinking, ‘No matter what they tell me, I just think I’ll wait’.”

“It is good the government are taking out adverts to warn people to check if their passport

SOLUSMAGAZINE.COM

will be valid, but they should also be taking adverts out telling people it is still safe to book holidays,” he told The Times newspaper.

“The government may tell us to prepare for a hard Brexit, but if they don’t tell you what the terms are, then none of us really know how to.

“I talk to the Portuguese, the Greeks and other destinations that rely on tourism and they are saying they don’t want this situation to continue. But for consumers there is nothing to worry about.”

The Times also reported findings by TravelSupermarket that found price cuts of as much as 24 per cent on Easter breaks over the same period last year.

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Saga Travel has launched a new agent training platform and is giving the first 50 travel agents who complete the modules a £20 lifestyle voucher.

The new platform can be found at sagaexperts.co.uk.

There are eight courses to complete, each taking five about minutes to do, in a newly digestible format.

Iain Powell, Saga’s head of trade sales said: “At Saga we’re constantly looking at ways to better support our agent partners to grow our mutual business.

“It is so important that agents understand all about the Saga brand for over 50s and to be able to pass this information to our potential customers.

“Our new online training platform will provide the perfect place for agents to improve their knowledge in easy to digest modules.”

Saga is launching its first purpose-built cruise ship, the Spirit of Discovery, rendering pictured, in July. A sister ship, the Spirit of Adventure, will follow in 2020.

Issue six | Promotion

The Arctic awaits Aurora Expeditions offer guests the opportunity to experience the polar regions onboard their latest ship, with brand new itineraries for 2020/21 As expeditionary voyaging emerges as the bucket-list holiday of choice for the welltravelled and well-resourced Gen X cohort, the need for those operating in this travel space to distinguish themselves has become greater than ever.

Aurora’s guiding principle of small-ship, expert-led expeditions sets it apart from the competition by allowing guests to maximise their time ashore and profit from the most enriching experience possible. Where larger ships

are forced to split landings and adhere to timetables, their new 120-capacity ship, Greg Mortimer, affords flexibility.

Robert Halfpenny, managing director, says: “Itineraries are our guidelines. For example, our expedition leaders have the ability to stop the ship if they see a pod of whales. It’s a true expedition experience.”

Aurora Expeditions believes it is this expeditionary spirit which keeps customers coming back and acts as a point of difference for agent partners.

“Agents want to take care of their clients and create repeat business,” says Halfpenny. “At Aurora, we provide an experience that brings clients back for more.

We have clients that have joined us 11 to even 20 times.”

Aurora has sought to expand its reach even further with new itineraries for 2020/21.

Greg Mortimer, launching in October 2019, comes equipped with kayaks and zodiacs to get guests right into the heart of the destination and its patented Ulstein X-BOW design allows

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for more gentle sea crossings, improved comfort and reduced emissions. Greg Mortimer will also feature two hydraulic viewing platforms which emerge from the bow of the ship offering unobstructed views of the stunning surroundings.

Craig Upshall, director of UK and European sales, says: “One of our taglines is ‘pioneering to the heart of nature’, so we’re not afraid to try new things.

This applies to the ship build, our experiential activities and our itineraries too. For example, we are responding to mounting consumer interest in the Arctic by expanding our offering to include new and more remote destinations.”

Launching in summer 2020, each of Aurora’s new and innovative Arctic itineraries offers an exciting opportunity to experience the destination from a fresh perspective.

“The new itineraries will allow travellers to explore regions previously unvisited by cruise companies,” says Robert Halfpenny. “This new product will see the Aurora spirit of

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small ship expedition cruising with wildlife, nature and adventure at the heart of these experiences.”

The Franz Josef Land Explorer is one such new itinerary and takes passengers to a world few have seen, delving deep into the heart of the Russian High Arctic.

Franz Josef Land is a stark yet beautiful world of glaciers, mosses and lichens and home to two of the Arctic’s giants – the walrus and the polar bear.

Similarly, Aurora Expeditions is one of the first polar voyaging specialists to offer an Iceland Circumnavigation. With most of the country uninhabited and with many deep fjords and glaciers to explore – including Europe’s largest, Vatnajökull – a circumnavigation of Iceland is an experience not to be missed.

Another highlight of the 2020/21 Arctic programme is the West Greenland Explorer itinerary. Boasting the Ilulissat Icefjord, a Unesco World Heritage Site, West Greenland offers an adventure-filled experience that includes

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thrilling zodiac cruises along gleaming ice-filled fjords, unbeatable photographic opportunities and meeting friendly Inuit locals living in some of the world’s remotest and harshest environments.

These are just some of the innovative Arctic itineraries offered within Aurora Expeditions 2020/21 programme, all of which are available to book now.

Early bird booking offer Launching with the new 2020/21 programme is an exclusive early bird deal offering up to 25 per cent off new voyages booked and deposited

by March 31, or until sold out, whichever comes first.

TOP THREE REASONS TO TRAVEL

INFOGRAPHIC

Solo travel in numbers

1

According to Agoda’s ‘Solo Travel Trends 2018’ survey, conducted by YouGov, travellers are choosing to go solo to take respite from the stresses of modern living. In this series of infographics we look at some of the figures behind the facts, including the differing demands of Asian and Western travellers and what people actually look for when they take a solo holiday.

2

3

61%

52%

45%

Relaxation and unwind

Getting away from routine

Explore new cultures

ASIAN SOLO TRAVELLERS ARE MORE LIKELY TO BE YOUNGER Western

Eastern

26–38 years

VS

59+ years

millennials

baby boomers

TREND TO MORE SCREEN TIME

31% of Asian solo travellers spend

4+

hours a day in front of their screens

Asian solo travellers are the most digitally connected and are more than two times as likely to spend four or more hours a day in front of their screens than their Western peers (31 per cent versus 12 per cent).

WESTERN SOLO TRAVELLERS TRAVEL FOR LONGER Asian solo travellers tend to take shorter 1-3 night solo trips

34% of Western solo travellers travel for 4-7 nights

‘Asian’ is defined as China, Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam. ‘Western’ is defined as United Kingdom, United States and Australia.

SOURCES: AGODA, BOOKING.COM, YOUGOV.

46%

2x Western solos are twice as likely to go for 14+ nights

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TOP SOLO TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

Western travellers –

Asian travellers – 1

Bangkok, Thailand

1

London, UK

2

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

2

Tokyo, Japan

3

Tokyo, Japan

3

Sydney, Australia

4

Singapore

4

Melbourne, Australia

5

Hong Kong

5

New York (NY), USA

6

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

6

Bangkok, Thailand

7

Manila, Philippines

7

Los Angeles (CA), USA

8

Bali, Indonesia

8

Las Vegas (NV), USA

9

Jakarta, Indonesia

9

Singapore

10

Chiang Mai, Thailand

10

Paris, France

Google searches for the term ‘solo travel’ were up almost 10% year on year from 2017 to 2018

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A study of 20,500 global travellers by Booking.com found that there “is also a surge in solo travel... with two fifths (40 per cent) of global baby boomers having taken a solo trip in the last year, and a further fifth (21 per cent) planning to take one in the future”. Some 34 per cent of respondents said that solo travel is among the “top five trips that they have already been on and would like to go on again”.

minutes

average time solo leisure travellers spend on their laptops and phones when travelling

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Issue six | Check-in

INTERVIEW

“It’s not just about going to a place…”

Anthony Pearce talks to Gavin Tollman, CEO of Trafalgar and Costsaver, about the ways in which they make travel matter and their commitment to solos “For a solo traveller, I really don’t think there is a better way of travelling,” says Gavin Tollman, CEO of Trafalgar and Costsaver, “You’re still part of a group, you’re never ostracised, but you’re free to do what you want.”

Tollman is the nephew of Stanley Tollman, the founder and current chairman of The Travel Corporation, which comprises 29 brands, employs more than 10,000 staff, and serves 1.9 million guests annually. Although some of its

brands, such as Contiki and Busabout, are better known to the Australian market, the likes Uniworld having a growing presence in the UK (as well as Red Carnation Hotels, which has six properties in London and two in Dorset).

But it’s Trafalgar, which is embraced by solo travellers, that is described as “the cornerstone” of The Travel Corporation: the operator promises that, through its tours, guests can “explore globally and sustain locally”.

“On every single trip, we offer room share or a single supplement,” says Tollman, “but recognising the number of the solo travellers who travel with us, we do offer some trips where we waive the single supplement.

The number of solo travellers is “driven by the destination.

It’s a growing trend, that’s why we’re always trying to work with hoteliers [to get the best rates for singles]”.

The operator’s philosophy can perhaps be summed up by

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best-known programme, Be My Guest, which celebrates its 10th birthday this year.

The concept is simple: local food cooked by locals. “Back in 2009, this was a conversation no one was having,” says Tollman. “In 2008, we ran six series going to the Esposito sisters’ home in Sorrento, overlooking Capri in the distance. It was the same itinerary had run for many years, but we just included a different lunch. Every single trip that went there, when you read your guests’ comments, they said Be My Guest was the highlight.

“You sat down with the sisters and they cooked you the most sublime spaghetti pomodoro, nothing complicated, but we immediately knew we were onto something. In 2019, on SOLUSMAGAZINE.COM

every single trip, wherever you Namibia, South Africa, go, you will have a Be My Guest Tanzania and Zambia experience. In those early years, on the African continent, it required knocking on doors, offering the same in-depth knowing friends of friends. excursions – including Be My Today, often people come to us.

Guest – as it does elsewhere.

“You have to make sure you’re Tollman has long spoken drinking the local wine, buying of the transformative power the local produce, sustaining of travel and the collective the local artisans. To me, responsibility we have as breaking bread with locals is an industry. the best way to get an insight “From a personal standpoint, into the places we visit. It’s the the most important thing about very essence of travel – seeing travel is making it matter. It’s life through a local’s eyes.” not just about going to a place These types of experiences – if you can economically help can be enjoyed all over the sustain small communities, world – Trafalgar runs tours ensure that you maintain everywhere from Argentina to long-term viability and do it in Zambia. In fact, the operator a respectful, environmentally will soon tour Africa for the conscious way, you can help first time, in what is a spiritual grow small businesses,” he says. return for the Tollman family, “That’s when people can who grew up in South Africa. see the power of tourism, They will now visit Botswana, when travel is helping making Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, a difference.”

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Issue six | Explore

INFOCUS

Just You Sam Ballard speaks to Alistair Campbell, managing director of the specialist solo tour operator which is looking long-term following its acquisition by G Adventures “One of the most interesting things about our customers is that they don’t want to travel alone, they love the interaction that comes from travelling as part of a group,” explains Alistair Campbell, managing director of Just You, the specialist solo tour operator. “We did a lot of research in the last 12 months in the run up to our rebrand and the strongest thing to come out of it was that our travellers want to share their experiences with

other people. The challenge that we have – and it’s something I think we’re very good at – is training our people to be able to deal with that group, and all of the nuances that they have compared to people who travel with friends or partners.”

Just You is one of the companies that has found itself at the centre of an industry that has quickly become in vogue.

Travelling solo is now very much on trend. The company,

which was previously part of Page & Moy and later All Leisure Group, was acquired by G Adventures after All Leisure went into administration in January 2017. The move saw G Adventures create a G Touring sub-brand – with many at the time speculating that the purchase was being made to open up G Adventures to clientele older than its typical travellers. No bad thing for G Adventures, or Just You.

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Issue six | Explore

“From a consumer or trade point of view, there isn’t a huge amount of difference,” Campbell adds. “The real strength of the deal comes from Bruce Poon Tip having the foresight to invest in the solo travel market in the UK. “His personal commitment is fantastic. It’s brought to life the opportunity around how we deliver travel experiences differently. Giving back and caring for the planet is central to everything we do. It’s meant we are now much more focused on delivering a long-term sustainable business.”

When it comes to producing solo holidays, specialisation is a key part of delivery, Campbell says. The reason being that solo travellers’ “desires and aspirations” are so different to couples, families or groups of friends travelling together.

The key to Just You’s success is creating the right atmosphere SOLUSMAGAZINE.COM

for groups of solo travellers.

Whether that’s going on safari in Kenya or hiking in Peru.

“It’s an incredibly brave step to go on holiday on your own – especially for the first time.

So you need to make sure that you’ve got the staff who are able to integrate a group and bring them together. It’s a huge part of what we do. It seems so simple, but it’s so important.”

With that relationship with their customers established, it’s no wonder Just You listens to its customers when it comes to introducing new destinations.

“Take Georgia as an example,” Campbell explains.

“It is a destination that we are introducing because of customer feedback. They told us that it looks fascinating and could we look at it? It takes a while. It came up about 12 months ago – and by the time we’ve had a look and got people out there on the ground and

25

put it together – it takes a while to bring to market. But I’m less concerned about speed to market these days. I would much rather we got it right.”

Another key area of Just You’s business is the trade, something that has had an increasing focus for Campbell during his time at the company.

“Travel agents are one of the most significant changes for the business since I’ve got here,” he explains. “While we sold through travel agents before the acquisition, now they are core to strategic growth.

“Eighteen months ago we had four people in trade-facing roles. Now it is eight or nine.

I want to double the trade business within two years.

“The last two years have been all about investment in a longterm sustainable business.

“That’s down to a classic entrepreneur who let’s people chase their dreams.”

Offer solo travellers the time of their lives simply by bringing themselves.

On a small group tour, get to what really matters: exploring our amazing planet.

On G Adventures small group tours, your solo clients can skip the hassles of planning and focus on connecting to our world. With over 700 itineraries and groups comprised of likeminded solo travellers, we've got an adventure that'll fit them just right.

Essential Vietnam & Cambodia 17 Days | Hanoi to Bangkok Golden Triangle 8 Days | Delhi to Delhi The Inca Trail 7 Days | Cusco to Cusco

24/7 Agent Hotline: 0344 272 2200 | gadventures.co.uk

Why travel solo with G Adventures? › Small, international groups › No single supplements › 100% Guaranteed Departures › Lifetime DepositsTM

NEW ZEALAND

Issue six | Section Name

Adventure time Stuart Forster takes the plunge on an adrenaline-fuelled trip around New Zealand – the ideal destination for solo travellers From my position at the edge of the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge it looks more than 43 metres down to the green river that swirls between the cliffs.

Queenstown is renowned as a hub for adventure tourism and signing up to do my first bungee jump seemed a great idea yesterday. That was after a couple of pints of craft ale at the Atlas Beer Café, close to the shore of Lake Wakatipu. Now I’m wondering why I didn’t opt for a jet boat ride, mountain biking or canyoning.

My ankles are bound together by a harness, so backing away simply isn’t an option. “If you’re scared of heights you’re in the wrong place, mate,” says one SOLUSMAGAZINE.COM

of the AJ Hackett employees who have connected me to the rope. I know I’m safe – after all, bungee jumps have been made from where I’m standing since 1988 – but I can’t help feeling nervous as the countdown to my jump begins.

Looping around New Zealand’s South Island has been an enjoyable way of spending the past few days. The landscape has impressed me because it undergoes dramatic changes within relatively short distances. Driving has provided me with freedom to stop and photograph the likes of giant ferns, sandy beaches and natural landmarks such as the crevassed ice of Fox Glacier. It

27

meant I didn’t have to worry about time while observing fellow travellers snapping selfies by the Church of the Good Shepherd, the stone-built chapel that has Lake Takapo and Mount Cook’s snow-capped peak as its backdrop.

Having a car enabled me to get away from the usual tourist trail and explore Akaroa, a settlement with French origins and colourful colonial buildings on the rugged peninsula that juts into the South Pacific below Christchurch. The drive would have taken a little more than an hour if the tussock-clumped hills over Lyttleton Harbour hadn’t prompted me to pause several times for photos.

Issue six | Explore The wine’s been good, too.

Having a vehicle enabled me to visit Villa Maria’s Marlborough estate and learn about the terroir and production processes of New Zealand’s largest wine region.

But, on the downside, it also meant I couldn’t let loose when sampling the produce.

Providing all goes well with this bungee jump, I’ll open the bottle of Sauvignon Blanc I bought at the cellar door. The 2,435 hours of sunshine that bless this part of the country each year mean I can expect fruity flavours and a crisp finish.

One of the unexpected highlights of my trip so far has been soaking outdoors in a mineral-rich, thermally heated pool, then stepping into a Japanese-style onsen bath at the Maruia Hot Springs.

Located by the side of Highway 7, I stopped off out of curiosity and lingered until long after the skin on my fingers wrinkled.

Snapping out of my flashback, I’m aware that my fingertips are about to get wet again when my outstretched hands plunge into the Kawarau River as the bungee rope extends. “Go!” yells a Kiwi voice and I plummet from the bridge.

Options for solo travellers in New Zealand Breathtaking New Zealand (from £5,899) by Just You (justyou.co.uk), is an 18-day escorted tour for solo travellers with guaranteed departures from March until November.

The tour includes 16 nights in three or four-star hotels with breakfast plus international flights on Singapore Airlines.

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Issue six | Explore

It begins in Auckland, moving southwards via Wellington, looping through the South Island before returning from Christchurch. A cruise on Milford Sound and a visit to Waitomo glow worm grotto are among the included excursions.

AAT Tours (aatkings. com) offers solo travellers the opportunity to share with a guest of the same gender to avoid a single supplement.

The company will provide accommodation in a single room if they can’t pair travellers up. Inspiring New Zealand (from £5,175) is a 10-day tour of both islands, including stays at Rotorura, Tamaki Maori Village, and Queenstown, plus visits to the Museum of New Zealand and Zealandia ecosanctuary in Wellington.

New Zealand Contrasts for solo travellers (from £8,199)

by Saga Holidays (travel. saga.co.uk) includes 23 nights in hotels, with breakfast and dinner, plus three nights in flight. The itinerary includes cruises of the Bay of Islands, the islands of the Marlborough Sounds and across Milford Sound. Queenstown’s Skyline Gondola and the TranzAlpine Express are also included.

The eight-day South Island New Zealand road trip with glaciers self-drive tour (from £1,120), by Travel Nation (travelnation.co.uk) begins and ends in Christchurchs.

It includes seven nights’ accommodation and five days’ car hire. Also included are a jet boat excursion, a guided walk in Glacier Valley, a cruise on Milford Sound and the TranzAlpine Express.

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SKIING

Heaven up here Skiing is usually seen as a sociable pastime, but it is becoming increasingly popular with solo travellers.

Sam Ballard looks at some of the options available

Issue six | Explore Whether your idea of a good time is hitting the slopes or ducking out and spending the day in an Alpine spa – there’s a reason why so many people love ski holidays. What’s not to love about heading deep into the mountains, staying in an authentic chalet and enjoying the fresh air for a few days?

These days, while it perhaps goes against the grain and the idea of a typical ski holiday as a convivial good time – more and more companies are offering ski holidays for solo travellers.

After all, skiing is a solo sport so why can’t a ski holiday be, too?

“One of the best things about solo skiing is the freedom to spend the time as you wish,” says Harry Herzig from Hotelplan, parent company of Inghams and Ski Total. “I enjoy the fact there are no limitations of what slopes I want to ski, due to ski levels. The aprés-ski is the best way to meet new people of an evening, but skiing at your own pace is a big highlight.”

The Ski Club of Great Britain, the oldest snow sport membership organisation in the UK, says that 70 per cent of its Freshtrack holidaymakers are single travellers – close to 2,000 passengers a year. Proof that the market for solo skiers is fast developing. The most popular trips that the organisation offers for solos are those that include single occupancy rates in the brochure – an obvious sticking point for those travelling alone.

As proof of the company’s success with its solo programme, it has added resorts including Klosters (over 55s on piste), Meribel (all

mountain), Silvretta Montafon (day touring/off piste) Pila (on piste instruction). All have proved popular.

Crystal Ski, part of Tui, offers a number of options for solo skiers – from Niederau to St Anton. The key is choice, and not just of destination. Regardless

of whether the traveller wants time alone or the chance to socialise with others, there is an option open to them. The company warns that single rooms book up quickly so move fast to avoid disappointment.

The French resort of Tignes, one of those offered by Crystal, SOLUSMAGAZINE.COM

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Issue six | Explore

is made up of five small villages high up in the Savoie Alps. The region boasts guaranteed snow, as well as a lively après-ski scene – with a host of restaurants and bars to choose from – making it the perfect spot for sociable solos, or groups of friends who want their own room.

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One of the biggest concerns that many solo skiers have – especially first-timers – is that they will be bored or lonely while at the resort. Crystal offers something for this, too.

Book your client into a Crystalrun chalet and they’ll be able to share meals and evenings with

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their housemates. For those travelling alone who want to be social, Solo Travel has options to help. In Mayrhofen, which is known as being quite lively, any confident travellers can make friends on the slopes before heading out to the bars and clubs in town.

Mark Warner offers plenty of choice, too. One option is Les Deux Alpes, in France. The Chalet Hotel offers twin rooms for single occupancy for much of the season – although not peaks – it also has a sauna and indoor swimming pool. Perfect for those who want to enjoy a bit of solo pampering.

Inghams has a long list of hotels that have both double and single rooms with no single supplement. These include properties like Hotel Büntali in Galtur. Dubbed an Alpine idyll

by Ernest Hemingway – the charming village is the highest in Austria’s Silvretta region.

Most of the 43km of pistes in the region are red runs – but there are off-piste challenges for the more skilled – as well as a two-mile black run.

A ski holiday is a great holiday option. The key thing to garner from your client is how they intend to spend their time away from the slopes.

Regardless of whether they want to bliss out in a spa, or meet new friends – there are plenty of options. Learn what they like and dislike and work out what their expectations are.

Then you can make suggestions accordingly. Just be ready for your client to have more questions than a typical couple would do. Keep it on piste and everyone will be happy.

SELLING TIP – Don’t assume single means budget. Plenty of solo travellers can afford top-end holidays but want good value

HOW TO SELL

Solo travel

To help match your solo clients to the correct holiday, Jane Archer rounds up the best options for lone travellers with differing demands and dosh

On a budget

p35

Higher spenders

p36

Splash the cash

p37

Most travel companies still cling to single supplements, blaming the tradition of pricing rooms for couples, but there have been breakthroughs as enlightened firms recognise that going solo is increasingly a life choice that none can afford to ignore. An

Abta report last year revealed one in six people now choose to holiday alone – almost three times as many as in 2011.

That some cruise lines, coach operators and escorted tour companies have now reduced or axed supplements on

34

selected accommodation and introduced singles-only holidays is a very welcome start. Capacity is limited, but there are options for those on a budget, travellers prepared to spend on comfort and valueseekers able to splash the cash.

On a budget Despite the single supplement, it is possible to find keenly-priced holidays and cruises for solo clients on a budget. Cruising from the UK eliminates the need for a flight, and staying close to European shores helps to keep air costs down, as does settling for shorter holidays. Budget travellers can avoid costly single supplements by taking advantage of operators’ room-share schemes.

Low supplement Who? Cruise & Maritime Voyages Where? Norway When? November 3, 2019 How long? Six nights How much? From £739pp This round-trip from Tilbury to Oslo, Kristiansand and Stavanger is on Columbus, one of two ships on which CMV has set aside 150 twin cabins for solo travellers that have a fixed single supplement of just 25 per cent.

Solo departure Who? Riviera Travel Where? Morocco When? November 21, 2019 How long? Six days How much? From £789pp including flights.

SOLUSMAGAZINE.COM

Riviera has solo departures that guarantee customers their own room and no single supplement. This half-board trip to Marrakesh includes excursions to Essaouira and the Atlas Mountains.

Share to save Who? Contiki Where? Turkey When? September 14, 2019 How long? Eight days How much? From £560pp Contiki is a coach tour operator for 18-35 year-olds. Its single supplements are high, but solo travellers can keep the price down by pairing with a samesex roomie. This sun, sea and sailing holiday from Bodrum includes all meals.

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SELLING TIP – Create a newsletter to keep solo clients up to date with the holidays (and prices) available for those travelling alone

Higher spenders It stands to reason that solo travellers with a bigger budget will have a greater choice, opening up the possibility of going further afield and enjoying more upscale accommodation without compromising on privacy, but still avoiding the single supplement. It’s worth remembering that growing numbers of solo travellers are young people in work who will be open to the idea of more active holidays off the beaten track.

Sailing solo Who? Norwegian Cruise Line Where? Western Mediterranean When? October 27, 2019 How long? Seven nights How much? From £1,409pp Norwegian introduced Studio cabins for solo passengers in 2010. The rooms are small and don’t have a view but come with access to a lounge where lone travellers can mingle.

Land-based tours Who? Just You Where? Georgia When? October 5, 2019 How long?

Eight days How much?

From £1,899pp including flights

Just You is a specialist solo tour operator offering land-based holidays and cruises with guaranteed own-room accommodation.

This one starts and ends in Tbilisi and includes a drive along the Silk Road.

Staying active Who? G Adventures Where? Vietnam/ Cambodia When? December 8, 2019 How long? 10 days How much? From £1,408pp G Adventures sells active holidays for young-at-heart travellers. Roomshare is available to keep costs down. This holiday takes clients from Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam to Siem Reap in Cambodia.

SELLING TIP – Suggest a cruise to friends planning to holiday together but who want single accommodation so they can have me-time

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Splash the cash Just because clients are travelling alone, don’t assume they are looking for a bargain. Plenty of solo travellers have cash to splash but they want to feel they are getting good value, and that means not being stung by a high single supplement. Plenty of tour companies and cruise lines fit the bill either by offering swanky accommodation, more exotic destinations or packaging everything into the price.

Ocean cruise Who? Saga Cruises Where? Norway When? February 16 2020 How long? 15 nights How much? From £5,858pp Saga Cruises has two ships including the new Spirit of Discovery, which enters service in July.

Both are reserved for passengers aged 50 and over and have a good supply of single cabins and suites with no supplement.

River cruise Who? Tauck Where? Europe When? October 20 2019 How long? 15 days How much? From £5,535pp Tauck is an upscale US tour company

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that operates a fleet of river ships in Europe with no single supplements for solo travellers in the lowest category cabins. This cruise, from Amsterdam to Budapest, and includes a gala night out in one of Vienna grand palaces.

Land touring Who? Titan Travel Where? Costa Rica When? May 4, 2020 How long? 15 days How much? From £3,249 including flights Titan offers a range of escorted tours that have low or no single supplement as well as 18 holidays just for solo travellers, like this one. It visits national parks and wildlife refuges in search of exotic animals, birds and flowers.

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SELLING TIP – Think of solo travel as a mainstream holiday choice among all age groups, but especially fast among 35 to 44 year-olds

DIRECTORY Info need an update? Email info@waterfront-publishing.com A

B

AAT Kings Heather Colbourn, senior sales manager 07824 486 544 heather.colbourn@ aatkings.co.uk

Back-Roads Touring Lockie Kerr, business development manager 020 8987 0990 l.kerr@backroadstouring.com

A-Rosa Lucia Rowe, UK managing director 07842 026 013 l.rowe@a-rosa.de

BodyHoliday, Saint Lucia Andrew Hillier, agency sales manager 020 3096 1600 reservations@ clear-marketing.com

Abercrombie & Kent Diogo Castanheira, sales manager North England, Scotland, Europe dcastanheira@ abercrombiekent.co.uk Mark Harris, sales manager South of England mharris@ abercrombiekent.co.uk Amadeus River Cruises Natalie O’Mahoney, head of sales 0800 035 6411 natalie@fredrivercruises.co.uk AmaWaterways Jamie Loizou, sales, marketing and digital director 033 3305 3902 jamieloizou@ amawaterways.com APT Touring Jessica Shelton-Agar, national sales manager 01494 736 147/07584 057 341 jessica.shelton-agar@ aptouring.co.uk Aurora Expeditions Talia Schwartzman, sales executive +61 2 9252 1033 agents@ auroraexpeditions.co.uk Craig Upshall, sales director UK/Europe 07824 305 232 craig@auroraexpeditions.co.uk Avalon Waterways Janet Parton, sales director 020 8315 4545 agencysales@avaloncruises.co.uk

C Coral Expeditions Elizabeth Webb, International Sales Manager +61 7 4040 9942 salesmngr@ coralexpeditions.com Cosmos Janet Parton, sales director 020 8315 4545 agencysales@cosmos.co.uk Cox & Kings Greg Thurston, head of agency sales 07748 807 276 greg.thurston@ coxandkings.co.uk CroisiEurope John Fair, sales director 020 8328 1281 jfair@croisieurope.com Cruise & Maritime Voyages Lisa Jacobs, head of trade sales 0844 414 6140 lisa.jacobs@ cruiseandmaritime.com Crystal Cruises Mick Dupont, head of UK sales 020 7399 7602 mick@cruiseportfolio.co.uk E eWaterways Amy Sharpe, sales and marketing 0808 168 1458 salesuk@ewaterways.com

Exodus Dan Jackson, agency liaison manager 07879 336 324 djackson@exodus.co.uk Explore Sarah King, sales manager 01252 883 721 sarah.king@explore.co.uk F Ffestiniog Travel Michelle Hawes, tours supervisor 01766 772030 michelle.hawes@ ffestiniogtravel.co.uk Fred Olsen Cruise Lines Mike Evans, head of sales 01473 746164 cruise.sales@fredolsen.co.uk Fred Olsen River Cruises Hannah Logan, UK sales manager 0800 035 3189 hannah@fredrivercruises.co.uk G G Adventures Stuart Darnley, national sales manager 07964 983 842 sdarnley@gadventures.com I If Only Dominic Carrick, head of sales 01419 554 000 dominic.carrick@ifonly.net Intrepid Travel Andrew Turner, head of industry sales 080 8274 5719 ukbdm@intrepidtravel.com J Journey Latin America Mary Anne Nelson, senior travel consultant 020 8747 8315 agents@ journeylatinamerica.co.uk

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Issue six | Section Name

K Kirker Hisham Mahmoud, agency sales manager UK & Ireland 020 7593 2288 hisham.mahmoud@ kirkerholidays.com L Latin Routes Jessica Dennison, director 020 8546 6222 info@latinroutes.co.uk Leger Holidays Ashley Dellow, head of retail sales 01709 385 811 retail.sales@leger.co.uk M The Majestic Line Marie McGhee, sales manager 01369 707951 info@themajesticline.co.uk Marella Cruises Andrew Isherwood, commercial support team 020 3451 2762 commercial.support@ thomson.co.uk Mercury Holidays David Hood, national sales manager 07855 036 782 dhood@sunspottours.com MSC Cruises Victoria Taylor, sales operations manager 020 7092 8182 ukinsidesales@msccruises.co.uk N Newmarket Holidays Richard Forde, agency sales manager 0330 160 4799 travelagents@ newmarketholidays.co.uk

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Norwegian Cruise Line Nick Wilkinson, Regional Vice President Business Development UK, Ireland, Israel, Middle East and Africa 023812 45241 nwilkinson@ncl.com O On The Go Tours Kate Filer, sales manager 07985 660 303 kate.filer@onthegotours.com P P&O Cruises Brodie McIntosh, trade engagement manager 023 8065 5780 brodie.mcintosh@ cunardpocruises.com Princess Cruises Mark Lowman, manager sales operations 023 8065 6531 mark.lowman@ princesscruises.co.uk R Riviera Travel Darren Mussell, agency sales assistant manager 01283 744 307 agencysales@rivieratravel.co.uk Royal Caribbean International Trade support team 01932 834 379 salessupport.uk@rccl.com S Saga Travel Sukina Fagg, national account manager 080 0074 8021 sukina.fagg@saga.co.uk Shearings Holidays Michael Bowers, national sales manager 01942 823 449 sales.support@shearings.com

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Solos Holidays Julian Simmons, agency liaison 020 8951 2810 travel@solos.co.uk Specialist Journeys Kathryn Furnell, marketing manager 01722 713 800 kathryn@ specialistjourneys.com T Tauck Kathryn Coles, UK country manager 080 0810 8020 tauckreservations@tauck.co.uk Titan Travel Edwina Coppock, agency sales manager 01293 450 726; 07834 652 135 edwina.coppock@titantravel. co.uk Travelpack Heena Bhudia, business development manager 07958 359 505 heena.bhudia@travelpack.com Travelsphere & JustYou Sarah Weetman, head of trade sales 07748 843 244 sarah.weetman@ travelsphere.co.uk U Uniworld Rachel Healey, national sales manager 07408 855 544 rachel.healey@uniworld.com V Voyages to Antiquity Amy Sykes, partnerships manager 01865 302 2565 a.sykes@ voyagestoantiquity.com

GAMESROOM

Each issue, we bring you a selection of things to do on your lunch break or journey to the office

CROSSWORD

ISSUE FIVE SOLUTION

ACROSS

DOWN

1. Total (3)

2. Travel target (11)

3. Top waltzer (7)

4. Massive quantity (3)

4

5

8. Backwards at sea (6)

5. Diversions afloat (10)

8

7

2

3

9. Excursion (4)

6. South Atlantic tropical island (5,6)

3

6

1

2

9

8

10. Suffragettes’ desire (5,2,4) 12. Not typed (11) 13. Pointers (4) 14. Scandinavian kingdom (6)

7. Wesleyans (10)

SUDOKU 4

2

9

8

6

11. Rocky outcrop (3) 14. Who must be obeyed (3)

9

7

8

6 9 8

4

5

9

3

7 2

7

5

5

9

1 9

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6 7

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15. Israeli parliament (7) 16. Levy (3)

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QUIZ 1. Which American baseball team plays its home games at Fenway Park?

2. Who is the only UK prime minister to have been assassinated?

3. What is the capital of Morocco?

4. Which architect and designer is behind Battersea Power Station and the red telephone box?

5. Straight Outta Compton is an album by what hip-hop group?

6. What is the capital of Ethiopia?

7. Which of these rivers runs entirely through France – the Loire, the Rhône or tge Rhine?

8. What is the capital of Belarus?

9. Who was the UK’s first black female MP?

10. Who wrote the book Adolf Hitler: My Part in His Downfall?

11. Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta is the real name of what pop star?

12. Who stars as Thomas Shelby in the BBC series Peaky Blinders?

13. Which film won the award for Best Picture at the 2019 Academy Awards?

14. What is North America’s highest mountain?

QUIZ ANSWERS

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1. Boston Red Sox; 2. Spencer Perceval KC; 3. Rabat; 4. Giles Gilbert Scott; 5. NWA; 6. Addis Ababa; 7. Loire; 8. Minsk; 9. Diane Abbott; 10. Spike Milligan; 11. Lady Gaga; 12. Cillian Murphy; 13. Green Book; 14. Denali, Alaska

SOLUSMAGAZINE.COM

Issue six | Depart

FINAL WORD

Holidaying on your own terms Kuoni’s new travel trends report reveals the changing mindset of solo travellers At a recent event to celebrate the launch of Kuoni’s 2019 Worldwide Travel Report, the company revealed that 77 per cent of its customers would consider going on a solo holiday, if the circumstances were right.

Those circumstances primarily hinged on whether the traveller felt safe and secure and that there were activities suited to them.

Kuoni is now planning a new programme specially dedicated to solo travellers.

This is clearly a smart move by the luxury tour operator, and one that reflects wider industry trends. In 2018, the most popular tours for Kuoni’s solo travellers included Temple, Tiger & Taj Trail; Highlights

of India – Taj tour; and Classic South Africa. Wildlife of Borneo and Highlights of Japan complete the top five. It is interesting to note that these are all long-haul destinations with real bucket-list itineraries.

It’s not hard to see why a solo traveller would book one of these trips – and a reluctant partner is not an obstacle to seeing these destinations.

During the presentation, the point was made that any number of holiday types can appeal to solo travellers. A solo safari, for example, is the perfect combination of scheduled activities, with game drives every day, coupled with the chance to interact with a broad range of people, from

your camp mates to wildlife trackers and guides. You can also relax on your own in the camp if you want to. Giving the flexibility and choice that is crucial to selling holidays to solo travellers.

MSC Bellissima, the 5,686-passenger cruise ship that launched in Southampton at the beginning of March, has 12 Interior Studios, which can only be booked by solo travellers. Again, a cruise is a holiday which offers flexibility.

What ties a luxury safari with a cruise on a resort-style mega-ship is that travellers are increasingly motivated by the need to have a holiday on their own terms.

It is this mindset change that has been behind the rise of solo travel. It is often said that millennials are less concerned with owning objects and are more interested in experiences – this trend plays out well beyond young people, though, and the travel industry is ideally placed to benefit from that trend. It’s a business that is based on experiences.

If there is something you want to see, or experience why wouldn’t you? After all, travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer, right?

SOLUSMAGAZINE.COM

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THERE'S SO MUCH MORE TO DISCOVER...

SOUTH AFRICA FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS 16 days from £2,959pp Selected departures from June to October 2019

BURGUNDY, RIVER RHÔNE & PROVENCE RIVER CRUISE FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS 8 days from £2,219pp Departing 14th October 2019 MS William Shakespeare

MONTENEGRO’S RIVIERA & DUBROVNIK FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS 8 days from £1,199pp Selected departures from April to October 2019

RHINE, STRASBOURG & HEIDELBERG RIVER CRUISE FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS 8 days from £1,799pp Departing 21st October 2019 MS Charles Dickens

Our tour manager worked hard to make sure everything ran smoothly – nothing was too much trouble. A lovely holiday and good value.

– Mrs Cheesman

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