Baby boomers are more likely to head off on a solo adventure than any other generation, says the results of the Solo Travel Trends 2018 survey.
The survey of over 10,000 respondents found that western solo travellers, deemed as those from Australia, the USA and the UK, were most likely to be baby boomers (39 per cent), followed by generation X-ers (24 per cent) and millennials and gen-Zers.
Commissioned by online travel agent Agoda and conducted by market research and data analytics firm YouGov, the survey also uncovered stark differences between eastern and western travellers.
Asian solo traveller trends were reversed, with those travelling alone more likely to be younger – 41 per cent millennials and 38 per cent Generation Zers.
Western solo tourists are also more likely to travel for longer periods, with 34 per cent taking trips for four to seven nights, and were twice as likely as eastern travellers to head off for 14 nights or more.
The number one motivation for solo leisure travellers was relaxation, with 61 per cent of respondents looking to escape long working hours, constant digital contact and life pressures to unwind on a trip away, alone.
Over half of all solo travellers also aim to get away from routine and 45 per cent wish to experience new cultures.
While many solo travellers say they want to escape digital contact, many said they use devices more when travelling alone than they would with a partner.
Solo leisure travellers admitted to spending 15 per cent more time on devices and phones than they would travelling with a buddy; and 26 per cent more time than if they are with family.
As to the destinations western solo travellers are choosing, London comes out on top, followed by Tokyo, Sydney, New York, Bangkok, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Singapore and Paris.
Read more at www.travelpulse.com
Have you travelled alone? How did you overcome loneliness? Did you find it easier to immerse yourself in a culture or more difficult? How much time did you spend on your device?
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