Maybe you’re not the “family feast” type at Christmas. Perhaps you’re looking for a little adventure over New Year’s. Maybe you’re on your own and are looking for ways to make new friends over the holidays or you’d like a holiday escape from your cold and snowy home town. No matter what your reason is, if you’re a solo traveler, taking a trip over the holidays can be a great way to meet other adventurers during this exciting season of learning and celebration. Start a new holiday tradition with a trip to one of these top destinations for solo holiday travel.
1. Bhutan
Escape the winter blues with a trip to one of the happiest countries in the world. Learn about Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness philosophy, and experience the warmth of the Bhutanese people. The country has seasonal tariffs for visitors, so there will be fewer tourists if you travel November through January, and the weather is still pleasant. Enrolling in Road Scholar’s “Essence of Bhutan” program can make it easier for solo travelers to reach Bhutan’s remote villages in the Himalayas.
2. Germany & Austria
If you need a nip in the air to feel the warmth of the holiday spirit, stick with the Northern Hemisphere and enjoy the lively festivities in Germany and Austria. Vienna, Salzburg and Munich are home to some of the most famous Christmas markets in the world! Browse the food stalls, sip mulled wine and learn about the holiday traditions of these historic cities. You may be solo, but you’ll feel the collective spirit of the visitors and locals at the bustling markets.
3. West Virginia
You don’t need to cross an ocean to find your perfect spot for holiday learning. Look no farther than the charming little town of Ripley, nestled in the Appalachian foothills. This picturesque setting is the perfect backdrop for creating crafts in preparation for the holiday season with Road Scholar at Cedar Lakes Craft Center, from tree ornaments and baskets to stained glass. It’s also a perfect opportunity for solo travelers to meet other crafting enthusiasts, both locals taking art classes and others traveling to the area.
4. California
California is alive with so many special celebrations over the holidays. New Year’s is a great time to visit as the annual Rose Parade tradition takes place in Pasadena. Travel with Road Scholar, and get front-row seats at the parade and the chance to decorate one of the parade’s famous floats! Jewish solo travelers can celebrate the New Year in Simi Valley as you delve into Jewish art, philosophy and more.
5. Québec City
Snow-dusted cobblestones lead the way to holiday adventures in Québec City. Explore Québec’s historic neighborhoods and come in from the cold as you discover the city’s fascinating museums. Stay at the historic Château Frontenac, and ring in the New Year with fireworks in this wonderfully historic city. Road Scholar’s New Year’s program in Québec can introduce you to new friends to celebrate with, but also offers lots of free time to explore solo.
Looking for more enriching experiences over the holiday season? Search Road Scholar programs by date here.
JoAnn Bell, Senior Vice President of Program Development, develops and manages more than 5,500 learning adventures in 150 countries and 50 states.
