Like to travel but don’t have a traveling companion? More and more people are choosing to see the world on their own as a solo traveler. It’s estimated that 11% of U.S. travelers, or 9 million people, travel solo each year for business or leisure. In a 2013 poll by Travel Guard, 59 percent of travel consultants said their clients are traveling alone more now than they did in the past ten years. Women 35 and older, a number 28 million strong, are a growing demographic in our country, which means more women in that age group are traveling. Also, women have the means to travel because they are earning more than before.
Many travelers claim that traveling alone is an exciting way to vacation; some even feel it’s the best way to see the world. They deliberately travel solo because they want to experience the world on their own schedule and without the influence of another. Some even feel that traveling alone takes you on a voyage of self-discovery where you can realize your own strengths and weaknesses. And, it can be delightfully self-indulgent. Your AAA Travel Agent can be a knowledgeable guide who will work with you to plan your solo journey.
Others find themselves yearning to travel but don’t wish to go solo. Don’t let that stop you from experiencing the joy of exploration. Annually, AAA provides hosted trips to allow members to travel confidently and in the company of other AAA members from their area. These trips are popular with both new and seasoned travelers. Most include a get-acquainted social early in the trip so participants can meet one another, feel comfortable in the group and enjoy the company of new found friends and like-minded travelers. Solo travelers also enjoy these hosted trips and know they have a host to rely on for support should their assistance be needed. And, AAA members are always encouraged to bring along friends and families, members or not.
Join fellow travelers this spring on a hosted Uniworld river cruise through stunning southwest France with Anne McAlpin as your host. This cruise was designed especially for the solo traveler but is open to all that love travel, with a popular host for fun and security.
France River Cruise Designed Especially for Solo Travelers
Discover the unparalleled riches of Aquitaine and its charming capital city, Bordeaux. You’ll cruise three rivers on this journey—the Garonne, the Dordogne, and the Gironde—and savor the unique gastronomical heritage of southwest France. With great food and wine, the charming towns of Bergerac, Saint-Émilion, and Bordeaux, and ample time to take in the breathtaking scenery, you’ll discover the many pleasures of French life. Those interested in epicurean pursuits, winemaking (and tasting!), history, and culture, as well as nature lovers, will love this Uniworld cruise. So whether you have a traveling companion or are a solo traveler, treat yourself to this amazing journey on the rivers of southern France. . . and make some new, like-minded friends in the process!
Bordeaux, Vineyards & Chateaux
by Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
River Royale, 7-night Cruise
April 12-19, 2015
From $3,374* single
Itinerary: Bordeaux | Garone River & Gironde Estuary | Pauillac | Blaye | Libourne (Bergerac & Saint-Emilion) | Dordogne River | Cadillac
We have several additional hosted vacations planned for 2015. Perhaps you’ll find one enticing to you or someone you know. Ask your AAA Travel Agent about our hosted AAA Member Choice Vacations’ Shades of Ireland tour coming up in April 2015 and our 2015 Member Appreciation Cruise to Alaska on Holland America Line.
It’s your decision whether you travel with friends and family or go it alone. Either way, travel is a life changing activity that is not to be missed. Jump in and enjoy the exploration!
*Rates are per person, cruise only, subject to availability and may change without notice. Space is limited on the single supplement waiver. Air available on request at additional rate. Port tax is $161 per person additional.