A perspective from a solo traveller, by Iris Seraya.
Let me let you in on a little secret…
It can be truly exhilarating going it alone, free to go where you like do whatever you want, when you want. While it is of course often a joy to share travel with family or travel buddies, solo travel opens to door to unfettered freedom to connect with the new, not the known.
Going solo as a traveller leaves you clear, all senses poised, open to, and indeed sometimes vulnerable to, connecting with the authentic spirit of a destination.
The art of travelling alone is about pausing to appreciate the life you’ve created. It affords the gift of time and space to reflect and reconnect with yourself. Pretty Beach House offers a restorative getaway in the Sydney Surrounds for those who want to give themselves this gift. Time for early morning meditation and swim in the ocean at Killcare Beach. Space to explore the local trails of Bouddi National Park and kayak in the bay. Room to reflect on your day with a signature ritual treatment in Bouddi Spa.
This is an all-inclusive property which means all dining from lunch on arrival day to breakfast on departure day, all snacks, premium wines and spirits (cellar list additional), WI-FI and mountain bike hire use is included.
Wellness focused experiences at The Louise are especially perfect for solo travellers who seek a nourishing, restorative escape. Personalised dreamscapes can include opt for a massage, one-on-one yoga session, guided meditation, or one-on-one wellness coaching in the privacy of your suite. Explore the region on an E-Bike and take a self-guided ride around the Barossa Valley or if you feel like meeting the locals, mingling with other foodies, join a group for a traditional pasta making class at Casa Carboni or experience a private estate tour and tasting hosted by a founding family member at Elderton Wines.
All guest suites come with your own private sunset terrace, deluxe linens and amenities, king bed, large spa tub, gated courtyard and free Wi-Fi access and as a solo traveller you can simply add in your dining experience at Appellation restaurant.
The small group and congenial atmosphere onboard True North ensures solo travellers always feel included and comfortable and a plethora of immersive activities for the thrill-seeker in you means there’s no shortage of opportunity to live out your wildest adventure dreams. Unlike more conventional cruise experiences – crew members on the True North are encouraged to interact with guests. They will chaperone your experiences, providing assistance, interpretation and genuine company.
If you’re willing to share a cabin, you’ll only pay the single tariff and better yet, if True North do not book a same sex travelling companion willing to share – you get the entire cabin to yourself without any additional charge. Now that’s sensible risk-taking.
This Spicers Peak Lodge guest reflects in this blog, It’s All About Me. If you feel like spending the whole day relaxing by the pool, you can; if you want to get up at the crack of dawn for a day packed full of activities, you can.
“Upon arrival, there’s no check-in – or “transaction”, as (General Manager) Martin describes it. The car’s valeted away. The bags are spirited to the room. And that wine appeared magically in hand. I’m keen to know how Peak Lodge deals with guests, like me, who have come for nothing more than me-time. Or as Greta Garbo would purr: “I vont to be alone.”
Martin smiles. “Oh absolutely, it’s very much a personal experience here. We’re only a 12-room property so the service is extremely personal,” he says. “If our guests just want to be left alone, then everyone’s aware they just want some downtime. Staff are respectful and make that happen for them. If guests want to do activities, or get in the spa, or just detach and escape their busy lives, we’re happy to make that happen for them.”
Travelling alone can make the local introductions and connections to the people, immersion in far-flung environments and flavours of regional cuisine sharper somehow. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love having the bed all to themselves? Luxury private accommodation, solitude when you need it and like-minded travellers and knowledgeable guides when you want them.
To view all Luxury Lodges in the collection, visit.
