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28/04/2005: "Single Travellers Losing Out..."

As usual, the selling images on travel brochures and literature shows the typical happy family, with two parents and two kids. The reality now is that the single-holidaymaker provides the bigger revenue for the industry.

It seems that this trend for holidaying alone is being mirrored, or perhaps created, by a growing number of people living alone. Statistics predict that 40% of us will be living alone by the year 2010 and it seem this pattern will blend into holidays. Solo holidays increased by 68% last year, and look set to continue increasing.

Strange then, that a vast majority of single travellers feel they are paying far more than they should for their holidays. Often single travellers are made to pay a supplement when only one person is staying in a room... Something that the Tour Operators claim is merely a supplement charged by the hotels. But the truth more likely lies in the losses that operators and hotels suffer when only one person is using a room. It means one less mouth eating and paying for food, one less person buying holiday extras etc... Tour Operators and package deals always benefit from more people in a room, so prices are bound to rise when a traveller is alone.

Friendship Travel, a company specialising in solo-travel, believe the hotels themselves don't charge any extra for single travellers at all, and that it's just the Tour Operators adding the cost.

At present there are no limits on how much extras single travellers can be charged, but with solo-travelling on the increase it can be hoped that changes to that rule are only a few years away. In the meantime, single travellers can be advised to shop around extensively, make sure you're getting the best value for money and are not penalised for staying alone in a room.

We offer cheap travel insurance for single travellers, at prices you will find very competitive in this industry. Be sure to get a quote for your specific holiday needs and feel free to get in contact if you need any more information.

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General Travel Tips

Visit your practice nurse or doctor to discuss your vaccination requirements as soon as you decide to travel abroad. Ideally this should be at least eight weeks before you travel.

If you have any doubts about the quality of tap water, drink, wash and clean your teeth in bottled water, or water that has been boiled or sterilised.
Also avoid ice in your drinks. Where possible, eat fresh food that has been thoroughly cooked. Shellfish should never be eaten raw, and avoid salads and fruits which you have not peeled yourself.

Be sensible with alcohol when abroad.

Use insect repellent to avoid insect bites. Apply repellent on top of sun block when both are being used.

Wear clothing appropriate to the climate and culture.

Avoid contact with local animals, which may carry rabies.

To help prevent the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) on long flights, stand up and walk around the cabin as often as possible. Most airlines provide information about DVT on board their aircraft.