Luxury Solo Travel: Tips on Travelling Alone for the First Time

I’m not one of those people who enjoy staying just anywhere, those days are long gone. Travel isn't just about the destination; it's about the entire experience, and for me, that includes staying in luxury hotels. As I’ve tailored my travel taste over the years, I've developed a certain fondness for them. When I'm on the road, I want to feel relaxed and pampered every step of the way. I want to come back to a room that's lush and comfortable. Luxury hotels offer that and so much more. 

So, why do I prefer them as a solo traveller? Well, it's simple. They offer the perfect blend of comfort, authenticity, and luxury. And when I'm exploring a new place on my own, that's exactly what I need. 

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE

As a solo traveller, I’ve often found that the staff goes above and beyond to ensure my stay is nothing less than perfect. When staying at a Kempinski, my favourite way to do this is spending time with a Lady in Red. A Lady in Red (or Gentleman in Red, in some hotels) is an ambassador for the brand, an expert at customer experience, and knowledgeable on local recommendations. If you’re celebrating a special occasion like a birthday, make sure to mention it to them!

Another interesting tidbit about them is that they all don a one-of-a-kind outfit that pays homage to the local culture of each specific location. Their unique attire adds a touch of cultural flair, ensuring that every interaction is not just welcoming but also a celebration of the destination's distinctive charm. One of my personal goals is to snap a picture with as many of them as I can!

During my trip to The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore, a Lady in Red gave me a tip to visit a local hawker centre within walking distance, which I didn't see during my research. A hawker centre is an indoor food court full of cuisine from all over the world. It’s a great way to try out several different kinds of Asian food in one place. 

Another highlight of my visit was when I came across a Kempinski-branded bag that was all about celebrating a local holiday. It caught my eye, and I couldn't help but rave about how pretty it was during check-in. After a day of excursions, I headed back to my room and the bag was sitting on the dresser, with a sweet note from the Lady in Red saying she hoped I enjoyed it. It was so thoughtful of her to remember and I still use the bag to this day!

SAFETY AND SECURITY

The number one concern I hear from people when I tell them I enjoy travelling solo is about safety. And with good reason, since there are so many reasons why you should stay vigilant when visiting a new destination. Having travelled around six continents, here are some things I have learned to do on every solo trip to ensure my safety.

Instead of stressing at the airport I always book transportation to and from the airport ahead of time. When I first started travelling solo I always forgot this step, but experience has taught me not to overlook it. There’s something that makes me feel relieved after I pick up my bags and see that sign with my name on it. When you book with Kempinski, you can arrange an airport transfer after booking. They'll make sure to check in with you a few days leading up to your trip and prepare your room based on your personal preferences, from pillows to bathroom amenities. You can even let them know if you are scheduled to arrive earlier than check-in time, and they can see what's available upon arrival.

Before leaving for your trip, I recommend sending your location and itinerary to at least three trusted people, so they can track your whereabouts. I like to use an organisation app called TripIt, because you can forward it your travel plans and it will automatically organise them into a shareable itinerary. My friends know that whenever they get an email from TripIt it means that Abigail is off on another adventure! 

When it's time to check into your room, ask the staff to write down your hotel number instead of saying it out loud, since you don’t know who could be listening. The only person who needs to know that you’re travelling solo is you and the people you trust. 

I also never go on a trip without packing a portable door lock, to give me peace of mind. There are many variations on the market and they’re super small so they won't take up much room in your suitcase.

UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES

An act of self-care is preparing ahead of time so your future self can thank you for it. You never have to worry about feeling alone with a pre-planned itinerary full of excursions; they are my favourite way to learn about the culture of a place and meet new people. During my stay at The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore, I took a cocktail-making class and learned the secrets behind creating the famous Singapore Sling.

Over in Europe, my trip to Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay Bodrum was made sweeter with a journey to Karnas Vineyards, a family-owned boutique winery tucked in the Aegean Valley. You might not know this, but the terroir in Bodrum is unlike any in the world, and due to strict export laws the wine cannot be found in many places outside of Türkiye. That’s why my wine-tasting and dinner experience at Karnas Vineyards was so special. I learned about the history of the brand, tasted a myriad of wines, and toured the cellar to learn more about the production process. My experience was booked through KEMPINSKI DISCOVERY and included a seamless round-trip transportation service, so all I had to think about was meeting my driver in the lobby. 

REST AND RELAXATION

One thing I always do on every solo trip is leave my room for relaxation with some sort of spa time. Walking into a spa, I feel the daily stresses melting away. It's a sanctuary where I can find both relaxation and rejuvenation. I loved the hammam experience I had at Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay Bodrum. I’ve been to a hammam in Morocco before but never in Türkiye and it was an unparalleled experience. The room is ornate with marble tiles lining the walls and filled with light pouring down from the ceiling. You’ll be squeaky clean from head to toe, and afterwards, enjoy some herbal tea with a view of the property from the pool. Doesn’t that sound fabulous?

CAREFREE LUXURY

I've found that luxury hotels truly elevate my solo travels. They're not just about plush beds and fancy decor. They're about the complete experience. The tantalising foods from world-class restaurants, and the pampering spa treatments, all contribute to the richness of my journey. As a solo traveller, I value these experiences that add depth and fulfilment to my travels. It's these moments of indulgence, relaxation, and adventure that make every trip unforgettable. They're a crucial part of my travel story, making each journey more than just a trip, but a memory to be cherished. So, here's to the luxury hotels that make my solo travels a remarkable adventure! When will you book your solo stay? 

If you enjoyed this, find out how Luxury Travel Advisors can help you craft your dream solo adventure.