Myth-busting Solo Holidays: 7 Common Misconceptions
Lack of a travel buddy shouldn't stop anyone from seeing the world. Sure, solo travel can be quite daunting, but it doesn't need to be! On a Riviera Solo Holiday, we plan enlightening visits to the must-see places and hidden gems are always included – many with local experts whose eye-opening insights connect you with the heart of your destination. You’ll have a room to yourself and a welcome dinner to get acquainted with fellow travellers, so you’re never alone unless you choose to be. Not what you expected? Let's take a look at some of the most common misconceptions around solo guided holidays.
Myths about solo travel
Myth: "I'll have to dine on my own."
Fact: Not unless you want to!
If you're thinking of taking your first solo holiday, but are nervous about talking to others, don't worry: all our solo holidays begin with a welcome dinner. This is your chance to break the ice with your brilliant, like-minded travelling companions, many of whom may be just as anxious. After that, it's up to you whether you want to dine alone - we find most travellers often dine together, even when meals aren't provided. Your wonderful Tour Manager is also on hand to ensure you never dine alone (unless you want to) - they'll even eat with you if you'd like. It's sure to be an enjoyable evening - most have some fascinating travel stories to tell!
Find out more about our Tour Managers
On our solo river cruises, tables in our onboard restaurant range from 2-8 seaters, so you have the flexibility to choose - dine alone, with another guest or with larger groups, it's completely up to you
Myth: "I can't travel with a group of friends."
Fact: Well, yes. Sort of...
If you'd like to travel with a larger group of more than two, we'd recommend our regular tours. While travelling with friends can be a blast, our solo holidays are designed to ensure all solo travellers integrate - which is harder if you travel as a group, as you're more likely to stick to those you know. Solo trips give you the chance to really connect with yourself, meet new people and learn new things. Travelling solo ensures you get the full solo experience — where spontaneity, self-discovery, and personal growth are all part of the adventure!
If you're looking to travel as part of a bigger group, check out our group booking options for special discounts:
Find out more about group travel
Myth: "Only older people go on solo holidays."
Fact: Our holidays are open to all travel passionistas!
Age is just a number! If we had to give you one, we'd say that, usually, the guests on our solo holidays are over 50. But our holidays are open to all travel passionistas - our guests are citizens of the world, obsessed with travel, interested and interesting - and always eager to get to know each other on our adventures.
Myth: "I'll have to travel alone."
Fact: A Riviera team member will greet you at the airport.
You'll be well looked after on our solo holidays. We prioritize your comfort and peace of mind from the moment you arrive at the airport. In most cases, our dedicated Tour Manager will be there to greet you, accompany you through check-in, and even fly alongside you to your destination. And if by chance they can't make it, no worries! One of our awesome Riviera team members will step in, get you checked in, and introduce you to your fellow travellers. With us, you're never truly alone; we're here to make sure your solo adventure is as memorable and hassle-free as possible. You'll never be alone on our solo adventures—we've got your back, every step of the way!
Myth: "Solo holidays are a matchmaking service."
Fact: Absolutely not!
No, we're not in the matchmaking business - we'll leave that for the dating apps (and so should you)! Our holidays are all about giving you a safe, welcoming space to explore the world on your own terms. So whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or just a change of scenery, we've got your back without any matchmaking pressure!
Myth: "The group will be really big."
Fact: The average group size on a Riviera solo holiday is 25 people.
Typically, on a solo tour, you'll travel with a group of around 25 avid explorers - just big enough to meet like-minded travel lovers and make new friends but still small enough to get under the skin of your destination. Of course, your group size does depend on the style of your holiday. On solo ocean cruises, the size of the vessel determines how many people you travel with - yacht cruises have a maximum of 20 cabins. It's like having your own little travelling tribe, ready to explore the seas together!
Myth: "I'll have to share a room with a stranger."
Fact: With Riviera, you can enjoy the privacy of your own room.
During a Riviera Solo holiday, each traveller is given their own room. Typically, you will be assigned a room with a double bed or twin beds, but sometimes hotels may offer the option of a single bed.
Having your own room is an excellent opportunity to relax in your own space before joining other travellers for a night of drinks and dinner, providing the perfect balance between socializing and solitude. Whether you choose to spend time with others or prefer some quiet time alone, the choice is entirely yours.
So, now you know the facts, would you like to try a Riviera tour?
Still have questions about a Rivera tour? Get in touch with a friendly, expert team: