Solo travelers take most frequent city breaks

People travelling alone take city breaks up to six times a year compared to couples and families who typically take two or three.

The survey of 1,000 serviced apartment customers also discovered that London, Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff and Leeds are the most popular UK destinations for city breaks.

Stuart Parker, managing director of Citybase Apartments, told BigHospitality that the rise of the solo travelling trend can be attributed to budget airlines.

“Travel is so much more flexible now.  With budget airlines and value accommodation people have the option to travel whenever they want.  Rather than put travel plans on hold waiting for a partner or friend many people chose to just go solo,” he said.

“There is usually so much to do on a city break solo travelers have the flexibility to do what they want, when they want.  It can also be less intimidating in a city as there is usually lots more opportunity to meet new people too.”

Key segment​

Parker said that solo diners are a ‘key segment’ of the travel market and that their needs should not be overlooked.

“In general we have found the bigger serviced apartments providers now exceed the requirements of solo travelers,” he said.

“More and more offer communal facilities’ such as a gym, lounge or social areas. We even have some providers that offer regular social evenings for guests which include complimentary drinks and nibbles in communal lounges.  I think this shows accommodation providers are doing more to accommodate solo travelers.”

Stuart Parker’s top tips for catering for solo travelers​

Offer free Wi-Fi: “Whether travelling for business or leisure keeping in touch with those back home is often a priority for solo travelers.”

Safe surroundings: “Safety is often the first thing our solo travelers ask us about, they tend to prefer apartments with 24 hour receptions and building security.”

Cooking facilities: “It sounds such a simple thing but having the option to eat in your own apartment can be less intimidating to dining out alone.”

Area information: “A guide to the local area and facilities can be beneficial to all travelers.”

Social area/events: “Providing a communal lounge for guests can be appealing to those who want to meet other travelers or even just relax outside of their apartment/room.”