According to Digital journalThe Global Solo Travel Service Market is expected to grow by 9.1 percent from 2023 to 2030. The Caribbean is set to benefit from a large portion of that growth.
For many, the Caribbean calls to a part of their soul that they cannot ignore, and for a growing number of travelers, experiencing the Caribbean alone is the best way to go.
“Across all the Caribbean destinations we serve, the trend is upward with single traveler bookings up 25% year over year,” says Ryan Terrier, Chief Executive Officer of Island itineraries.
“These guests are determined to make time to pursue their passion from personal adventure to self-discovery with activities such as golf, ATV rides in heartland, bamboo rafting, breathtaking hikes, fishing excursions and exhilarating zipline adventures that promise not only unforgettable moments but deep connections with the captivating, trend-setting Caribbean landscape.”
Solo travel trends
A study by The world of solo traveltrying to predict travel trends in 2024, found that 86% of those questioned consider themselves solo travelers.
People don’t just want to be seen on their vacation. 40% of solo travelers over 55 are looking for more adventurous holidays, while 54% of those under 55 are looking for the same. 66% of survey respondents were American, 21% were Canadian, and 3% were British.
The number one reason for traveling solo, at 66%, was a desire to see the world without waiting around for anyone.
Almost two-thirds complained that friends and family do not share their interests, sending them looking for solo trips.
57% just want to do what they want, when they want.
Alec Sills-Trausch of Explore with Alec says: “I only travel for work and pleasure. I think being able to make my own schedule and do what I want to do – especially as a photographer – is invaluable.
“In addition, you learn a lot about yourself and how to act and react in certain situations that cannot be taught or learned in other ways. Yes, you can be alone, but it is also free to do what you want, when you want, and find ways to occupy time”.
Top Three Caribbean Islands for Solo Travelers
If you’re curious about where you should hang out on your own in the Caribbean, TheTravel.com highlights their chosen destinations for solo travelers.
- Barbados: An excellent choice for those who want an adventure vacation where they can surf and find lots of Instagramable scenery. The west coast of the island generally has calm, turquoise waters that are easy to swim in, while the east coast generally has higher surf and wilder beaches that surfers love.
- Martinique: This island is wonderful for active solo travelers who love things like finding waterfalls, horseback riding, and snorkeling.
- Turks and Caicos: These islands are perfect for nature and water lovers. It is ideal for those who love scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing and paddle boarding.
But the Caribbean is a lot fantastic islands you can visit in 2024. In fact, one of the main attractions of solo travel is the freedom to explore less mainstream parts of the world and avoid the crowds and overpriced tourist traps.
The best time for solo travelers to visit the Caribbean
While there are many opportunities to be had throughout the year, you will avoid many of the traps of traveling if you stop at the beginning of the year.
The best time for visit the Caribbean is January to March. While you can certainly plan trips at other times of the year, you risk fighting your way through huge crowds or having your trip canceled to avoid a hurricane.
Caribbean travel tips for solo travelers
Here are some travel tips to consider as you get started.
To make your trip run more smoothly, check travel advisories, get the correct plug adapter, and have some local currency on hand as soon as possible.
Check the weather report to make sure you pack the right clothes, find a good one Caribbean packing list to make sure you remember everything, and make sure you know about any local dress codes, like camouflage being outlawed or which beaches require bathing suits – and which don’t.
Only Destiny
With the economy of solo travel growing rapidly, travel companies will scramble to offer packages that accommodate the solo traveler. But watch out for tricks and cheats, and never feel like you have to follow someone else’s itinerary.
Part of traveling alone is the freedom to go anywhere and do whatever your heart desires without the limitations of those who want to do other things that may not interest you. Solo travel is here to stay and may just give you the vacation of a lifetime.
