From Solo Trips, to Group Travel
Not long ago, we were solo travelers. Independent, curious, and determined to experience the world on our own terms. We craved the freedom of going wherever, whenever. But somewhere along the journey, something changed — not in the desire to explore, but in how we wanted to connect.
That’s when we started Whereaway Trips. We hosted our first small group tour because friends, followers, and even strangers kept asking: “Can I come with you next time?” What began as a one-off trip quickly turned into a series of incredible experiences shared with curious, kind, and like-minded travelers — many of whom were also solo explorers looking for something deeper than just ticking destinations off a list.
What we discovered — and now know for sure — is that group travel isn’t the opposite of solo travel. It’s the evolution of it.
The Rise of the Solo Traveler
Solo travel has exploded in popularity in the last decade. According to Google Trends, interest in solo travel continues to climb, with thousands of new blogs, social media accounts, and resources popping up to support it. It’s become a rite of passage for many.
Why it took off:
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Freedom to follow your own path
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Personal growth through discomfort and independence
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Flexibility to plan your trip, your way
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The rise of remote work and digital nomadism
But if we’re being real, solo travel can be tough.
The Hidden Challenges of Solo Travel
We’ve both done it — the late-night bus rides, navigating unfamiliar cities alone, and the occasional “Who do I talk to over dinner?” feeling.
Common struggles:
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Loneliness, especially in quieter or rural destinations
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Safety concerns, particularly for solo female travelers
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Decision fatigue from managing all logistics alone
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Higher costs, like single supplements for accommodations or tours
Which is why more and more solo travelers are embracing a different way: curated group travel experiences that keep the freedom, ditch the stress, and add the one thing we all secretly crave — connection.
Enter: The New Wave of Group Tours
This isn’t your grandma’s tour bus. Modern group travel is smaller, cooler, and designed for people who want more than just sightseeing.
What makes today’s group travel different:
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Small groups (8–16 people max)
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Emphasis on authentic, cultural immersion
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A blend of structured plans and free time
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Solo-friendly — no awkward third-wheeling
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Hosted by local experts or even travel creators you follow
Companies like Intrepid Travel, G Adventures, and platforms like TrovaTrip are making adventure travel accessible to solo travelers who want the best of both worlds.
Why Solo Travelers Are Choosing Group Travel
From hosting our own trips with Whereaway Trips to joining ones ourselves, we’ve seen firsthand how powerful this format is for solo travelers. Here’s why:
1. Instant Community
You don’t have to figure out who to talk to at dinner — you already have a crew. Group tours create the space for real conversations, shared memories, and future friendships. Some of our travelers still meet up regularly or travel together again.
2. Safety in Numbers
Whether you’re hiking through Morocco or wandering night markets in Vietnam, it feels better to do it with people who’ve got your back. Especially for solo female travelers, traveling with a group brings peace of mind.
Need solo safety tips? Check out Nomadic Matt’s Solo Travel Guide.
3. You Still Get Freedom
We make sure every Whereaway Trips itinerary includes downtime to explore solo, sleep in, or wander aimlessly. You’re never “stuck” with the group, but the option is always there.
4. No More Planning Headaches
Flights, transfers, activities, local guides — handled. Group tours take the mental load off, so all you need to do is show up and enjoy the ride.
5. More Value for Your Money
Traveling solo often means paying more. But with group travel, you get:
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Shared costs (hotels, transport)
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Insider deals and access
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No single supplement fees on many tours (we don’t charge them at Whereaway)
A Group Tour for Every Kind of Solo Traveler
Whether you’re 25 or 55, budget-minded or luxe-loving, there’s a group travel experience designed for you.
Adventure-Seekers:
Hike, surf, dive, or trek with expert guides. Companies like G Adventures have epic itineraries from Peru to Patagonia.
Culture Lovers:
Learn to cook in Thailand, explore historic cities in Italy, or take a textile workshop in Oaxaca.
Wellness Travelers:
Join a yoga retreat in Bali or a digital detox in the Alps. Some of our trips even blend food, culture, and mindfulness all in one.
30+ and Solo? You Belong Here.
This was one of our biggest surprises — most of our travelers are 30s to 50s, and they love the mix of adventure and comfort. We curate Whereaway Trips to feel like a perfect balance of depth, fun, and relaxation — no party buses, no awkward social games.
The Social Media Influence
You’ve probably seen it: creators announcing their own group trips, travelers tagging their new friends, or reels showing sunset hikes with the caption “Best. Week. Ever.”
Platforms like TrovaTrip have made it easy for creators to design custom group experiences — and travelers are loving the chance to meet the faces they’ve been following for years.
At Whereaway, we also partner with travel creators to host their own communities, blending content, connection, and unforgettable itineraries.
It’s Not About “Group” vs. “Solo” — It’s About Choice
Modern travel is hybrid. You can start solo, join a group trip in Egypt, then travel onward with a new friend to Jordan. We’ve seen it happen over and over.
That’s why group travel isn’t the opposite of solo travel — it’s the upgrade.
How to Choose the Right Group Trip for You
Not all tours are created equal. Here’s how to find one that fits:
1. Match Your Energy
Are you more “hike Kilimanjaro” or “sip wine in Tuscany”? Choose accordingly.
2. Check Who It’s For
Some tours are 18–30 focused, others are geared toward professionals or older travelers. Whereaway Trips, for example, are perfect for solo travelers 30+ who want meaningful connection and authentic adventure.
3. Read the Itinerary Closely
Look for free time, optional activities, and whether you’ll be constantly on the move or more rooted in one place.
4. Ask the Important Stuff
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Are there single supplement fees?
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How many people are in each group?
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What’s included — and what’s not?
Final Thoughts: Why We’ll Keep Choosing Group Travel
When we reflect on our solo adventures, we’re grateful for the independence and lessons they brought. But what we remember most — the belly laughs, late-night chats, and moments of wonder — often happened with others.
That’s why we created Whereaway Trips: to bring solo travelers together in a way that doesn’t feel forced, fake, or forgettable. We’ve seen strangers become best friends. We’ve seen shy soloists become confident leaders. And we’ve seen the kind of magic that happens when people step out of their comfort zone — together.
The future of solo travel? It’s not lonely. It’s community, adventure, and unforgettable group experiences.
Ready to experience it for yourself?
Explore our upcoming trips at Whereaway Trips, and find your people — even if you’re traveling solo.
