Feature: Short-breaks for solo travellers

Wednesday, 29 June 2011 12:04 PM

Solo travel has become increasingly popular over recent years and numerous tour organisers have responded by creating a range of two day to two week group trips, meaning you can travel alone but also be guaranteed the opportunity of meeting new people. Although a two week excursion on a Nile cruise ship sounds tempting, many of us don’t have time to book a long holiday. So we’ve searched high and low for short break ideas perfect for the single traveller...

France
The Chateau de Chantilly is a pink, fairytale castle nestled in the heart of a large forest on the outskirts of Paris. Once the home of an exiled lord, the 18th century castle boasts a stunning art collection and incredibly beautiful landscaped grounds. Make new friends with the four day trip planned by Justyou, where you’ll take in this architectural marvel on the first day.

Your trip includes a three night stay in the charming Novotel Chateau de Maffliers, complete with breakfast, a swimming pool and a gym. Other excursions include a Paris by night coach tour and a full day visit to Monet’s house and garden at Giverny. The famous impressionist painted in this delightful spot between 1883 and 1926 and the area is most famous for its water lily pool. Don’t miss the beautiful Japanese bridge hung with wisteria. On your final night you’ll have a slap up final farewell feast!

Istanbul
Istanbul is one of the most unique cities in the world. No other metropolis straddles two continents or boasts such a stunning cityscape of old and new. Food, sightseeing and culture here is an absolute delight, so a four day trip with single specialists Travel One is perfect for soaking up the flavour. Meet like minded people as you stay in the four star Prince Hotel situated five minutes from the Bosphorous Strait (a body of water which separates Asia from Europe and divides Istanbul in two).

Marvel at the architectural splendour of the Blue Mosque, the Golden Horn, Topkapi Palace, Aya Sofya, the historic Sultanahmet area and the Dolmabahce Palace. Also included is a charming Bosphorous cruise where you can gaze at Istanbul’s dramatic skyline in all its glory. Group dinners are enjoyed at local restaurants, and excursions for a drink or two can easily be organised.

Liverpool
Take a nostalgic trip down memory lane with a rocking 60s weekend in Liverpool with Solo's. Enjoy the sights of this red-bricked city and learn the history of the music that changed the world. Start off by checking into the art deco Crowne Plaze Liverpool hotel before settling down to a light hearted dinner and a 60s quiz. The next morning you’ll tour the city’s historic Albert Dock before visiting The Beatles Story, where you’ll learn how four young Scousers were propelled to fame and fortune. Enjoy the tour with an audio book narrated by John Lennon’s sister, and look in nostalgia at some of the bands instruments and documents. Then pose for a photo outside the Cavern Club, or take a scenic ferry across the Mersey.

As a recent European Capital of Culture, Liverpool is not lacking in things to do. Explore the fantastic museums like the Tate Gallery, William Brown Library, Walker Art Gallery and World Museum Liverpool. Or instead just choose a contemporary pastime and shop till you drop in the outdoor shopping centre of Liverpool One! And no nostalgic trip would be complete without a 60s themed dance and disco, so get rocking with your new friends and dance the night away.

Dublin
Ireland’s capital is a cracking place, full of great pubs, historic architecture and fantastic restaurants. In terms of sightseeing you’re spoilt for choice, from the ever popular Guinness Storehouse Brewery and illuminated Book of Kells to pretty Ha’Penny Bridge and Molly Malone’s statue. Temple Bar is the famous area on the south bank of the River Liffey where narrow, cobbled streets and historic buildings merge perfectly with a happening nightlife scene.

Friendship Travel offer a three night trip to this fabled city of culture where you’ll stay in the boutique styled O’Callaghan’s Hotel on St Stephen’s Green. The Georgian house hotel includes breakfast, meaning you can dine out for lunch and dinner with your new friends at one of the city’s many eating options. Your tour guide will organise excursions and direct you to the best places for shopping, eating and drinking. Have fun!

Singles Holidays are brilliant for meeting new people and taking in new sights. Join us next week for more short break holiday ideas for solo travellers.

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