As a vacation destination spot, we like to stay on top of key trends impacting the industry. One that’s been heating up over the last couple of years is the trend of solo travel. Although Covid has a small part to play in fueling the trend, the main driver seems to be a desire among millennials to enjoy new and unique experiences as well as to rest and maintain mental health.
Several sources say that the number of people planning solo trips has doubled over the last year. That trend was already on the rise prior to Covid, but extended lockdowns have many itching to get away. Those looking to travel alone say they are most interested in locations that are off the beaten path and are actively avoiding the most popular (and most crowded) destinations. They also say they are looking for more authentic, local experiences, especially those with an emphasis on culinary travel.
There are many advantages to traveling alone. First, those who travel in groups tend to stay with their party for most, if not all of the trip. That makes it difficult to meet new people and to explore things that may be of personal interest to you and not your travel mates. So, by traveling alone you put yourself in control of your itinerary and leave yourself open to new experiences and opportunities you might not get as part of a group. Second, traveling alone is great for those who want lots of space for rest and relaxation. You can go at your own pace, enjoy solitude, and engage in other restorative activities (such as yoga or massage). Last, it’s easier to schedule solo travel. A quick jaunt to a nearby bed and breakfast or even a weekday retreat is easy to manage with one calendar to coordinate. Plus, there are often weekday rates and last-minute specials that a solo guest can snatch up at a moment’s notice.
Of course, we can’t talk about solo travel without talking about all that we have to offer the vacationer going it alone. With over three acres of wooded property nestled right along Cypress Creek, our 16-room inn feels like a secluded hideaway, even though we are walking distance from the heart of Wimberley Town Square. As a small town, we have the best of the hill country experience, but without the massive crowds and congestion of some of the more “touristy” destinations. With a growing number of restaurants, breweries, wineries, and more, we certainly have the culinary side of things covered. Not to mention our guests enjoy a scratch made breakfast every morning, featuring a seasonal offering made with locally sourced and organic ingredients. If rest and relaxation are on the agenda, or spa services will inject some calm into your stay and help you leave the hustle and bustle of work and home behind. Of course, you can always take a snooze in the hammock by the creek and just let your worries drift away!
Okay, so enough of the shameless plug. We do find this new trend interesting and exciting and look forward to welcoming solo travelers over the coming months. As new trends emerge, we will share what we learn.
Safe travels everyone!
