Exploring Gay Single Holidays: Safe and Stylish Solo Travel

Travelling alone can be one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll ever give yourself. When it comes to gay single holidays, the adventure takes on even more meaning. For LGBT+ travellers, solo journeys open the door to freedom, discovery, and connection. Yet they also bring unique considerations that go beyond the usual packing lists and flight bookings.

Solo travel means you set the pace. You choose when to explore, when to relax, and when to connect with others. It’s your time, your story. But many in the LGBT+ community know that not every destination, hotel, or experience is equally welcoming. That’s where preparation and smart choices make the difference.

Our aim at Wide Awake Holidays is to show you how to enjoy solo trips with confidence and style. You don’t need to settle for places that are only labelled “gay friendly.” Sometimes, gay friendly is not friendly enough. You deserve destinations and hotels that truly welcome you as you are.

In this guide, we’ll cover practical tips, destination highlights, and the insider advice you need to create solo adventures that feel safe and memorable. We’ll also share how booking with a specialist like us gives you not only tailored itineraries but also the reassurance of financial protection and personal service from a gay-owned travel company.

Ready to plan your next chapter of solo exploration? Let’s begin with why gay single holidays are becoming one of the most exciting ways for LGBT+ travellers to see the world.

Why Choose Gay Single Holidays for Your Next Adventure

Travelling as part of a couple or group can be enjoyable, but solo journeys give you the chance to discover life on your own terms. Gay single holidays are about more than visiting new places. They’re about the freedom to explore your identity, meet like-minded people, and embrace experiences you might not have in everyday life.

For many, the idea of going alone feels daunting at first. Yet once you step out, you realise how liberating it is. You set your own schedule. You decide when to engage and when to retreat. That independence builds confidence and often creates lasting memories.

Another reason to consider solo travel is the sense of community it can foster. Whether you’re joining a guided tour or staying in a boutique hotel, you’ll often find other solo LGBT+ travellers on similar paths. That shared bond can spark instant connections. Many travellers return with lifelong friendships — and sometimes more.

There’s also a practical benefit. Gay single holidays often provide options tailored for solo travellers, such as shared tables at dinners, group excursions, or even rooms without the usual single supplements. These touches make it easier to feel part of a community, while still enjoying your independence.

When you book through a gay-owned company like Wide Awake Holidays, you’re not just buying a trip. You’re choosing a travel partner who understands your needs, listens to your concerns, and knows where you’ll feel truly at home. That support can turn a good holiday into a great one.

Solo travel is not about being alone. It’s about having the courage to explore the world while knowing you’re supported every step of the way.

Safety Tips and Preparation for LGBT+ Solo Travellers

Going it alone brings excitement, but it also calls for careful planning. Safety is always a top priority when travelling solo, and for LGBT+ travellers, there can be added factors to consider. The good news is that with preparation, gay single holidays can be both safe and deeply rewarding.

Start by researching your destination. Laws and cultural attitudes towards LGBT+ people vary widely around the world. Some countries openly celebrate diversity, while others are less welcoming. Check recent updates on rights, and read traveller reviews to understand the on-the-ground experience. This helps you avoid surprises and feel at ease. For detailed information on legal status, local laws, and cultural attitudes, check the UK Government’s Foreign Travel Advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Booking with a trusted provider makes a real difference. At Wide Awake Holidays, we only recommend places we know will treat you with respect. Our team carefully selects hotels and partners who go beyond “gay friendly” and truly welcome LGBT+ travellers.

Once you’ve chosen your destination, think about how you’ll stay connected. Keep your phone charged, and share your itinerary with a friend or family member. Apps that provide local safety updates or map services can be a lifeline when exploring a new city.

Money management is another key detail. Carrying both cards and a small amount of cash ensures you’re not stuck if one option fails. Always store a backup in your hotel safe.

When it comes to meeting people, trust your instincts. Social apps are popular for connecting with locals or other travellers, but always arrange first meetings in public spaces. A simple precaution can protect both your safety and your holiday mood.

Remember, solo travel doesn’t mean you’re unsupported. With the right preparation, your gay single holidays can be a mix of independence, cultural immersion, and peace of mind.

Destination Highlights for Gay Single Holidays

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona blends beach life with vibrant nightlife. Its open-minded culture makes it one of the top destinations for solo LGBT+ travellers. By day, you can relax on Mar Bella beach, visit Gaudí’s architectural wonders, or explore the Gothic Quarter. By night, the city’s gay district, Eixample (often called “Gayxample”), offers bars, clubs, and cafés where meeting new people feels natural.

Hotels in this part of the city often cater directly to the LGBT+ community. Axel Hotel Barcelona is one of the best-known exclusively gay hotels, with a rooftop pool and social events designed to bring people together. It’s a natural choice for solo travellers wanting to connect.

If you’d like, we can also check our current offers for hotels in Barcelona.

Mykonos, Greece

Few places in Europe match the energy of Mykonos. This Greek island combines stunning beaches, iconic windmills, and a thriving LGBT+ scene. Paradise Beach and Super Paradise Beach are hubs for gay travellers, complete with lively clubs that run late into the night.



Solo travellers often find Mykonos especially welcoming thanks to its communal beach culture. The island also offers boutique gay-friendly stays. The Elysium Hotel is exclusively gay and well-known for its sunset terrace parties, where you can mingle with fellow travellers.

We’d be happy to check if we have offers for Mykonos holidays right now.

New York City, USA

For those travelling from the UK or abroad, New York City is an icon. It’s not only a global centre of culture but also a city with deep LGBT+ history. Solo visitors can walk through Greenwich Village, visit the Stonewall National Monument, or enjoy a Broadway show. Each neighbourhood has its own character, and the city’s inclusivity is unmatched.

Accommodation choices for LGBT+ solo travellers are wide-ranging. Hotels in Chelsea or Hell’s Kitchen place you close to nightlife and social spaces. Many boutique hotels in these areas are proudly welcoming, giving you peace of mind.

If you’re planning a trip to New York, we can help secure exclusive hotel and flight packages.

More Inspiring Destinations for Gay Single Holidays

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok offers solo LGBT+ travellers an unforgettable mix of tradition and nightlife. During the day, you can explore ornate temples, floating markets, and street food stalls. By evening, Silom Soi 2 and Soi 4 come alive with bars and clubs popular among the gay community.

Solo travellers will find Bangkok especially engaging because of its social atmosphere. Hotels in Silom are often gay-friendly, and Babylon Bangkok is a well-known exclusively gay property with lush gardens, spa facilities, and a welcoming vibe.

We can also provide details on Bangkok holiday offers upon request.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin is one of the most inclusive capitals in Europe. The city has a strong LGBT+ history, countless cultural attractions, and a thriving nightlife scene. From exploring the Berlin Wall memorial to relaxing in Tiergarten park, solo travellers are spoilt for choice.

For accommodation, the city has a broad range of gay-friendly hotels. The Axel Hotel Berlin stands out, offering stylish rooms and a central location in Schöneberg, the city’s main gay district. Solo travellers often choose Berlin for its mix of openness and opportunity to connect with others.

Ask us if you’d like to see current offers for Berlin breaks.

Cape Town, South Africa

For those looking further afield, Cape Town is a striking destination. With Table Mountain as its backdrop, the city offers beaches, vineyards, and a creative arts scene. De Waterkant is the main gay district, full of cafés, boutique shops, and nightlife venues.

Accommodation includes guesthouses and hotels that openly welcome LGBT+ guests. Cape Town also makes a great base for exploring the wider region, from wine tours to wildlife safaris. It’s ideal for solo travellers who want both relaxation and adventure.

Let us know if you’d like to explore offers for Cape Town holidays.

Jamie Says:

 "Travelling solo can feel daunting, but it often becomes the most rewarding way to see the world. At Wide Awake Holidays, we understand that sometimes gay friendly is not enough — you deserve places where you’re truly welcomed. That’s why we handpick destinations and hotels that create safe, inclusive spaces for every traveller.”

Jamie Wake, Managing Director

The Protections You Receive with Jamie Wake Travel



Booking through us means more than just securing flights and hotels. We’re a UK-based, gay-owned travel company that’s both a member of Protected Trust Services and holds an ATOL licence. This gives you full financial protection on your trip.

Every tailor-made holiday includes:

• Supplier Failure Insurance – covering you if a travel supplier stops trading.
• Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance – ensuring you’re not left stranded if an airline goes out of business.

We also provide a personal service. Whether you’re based in the UK, the United States, or elsewhere, we tailor holidays to your needs and manage the details so you can travel with confidence. Our team is here to listen, advise, and make sure your trip runs smoothly.

When you travel solo, peace of mind matters. These protections give you the confidence to focus on enjoying your journey.

Final Destinations for Gay Single Holidays

Sydney, Australia

Sydney is famous for its beaches, harbour views, and thriving LGBT+ community. For solo travellers, it’s both welcoming and easy to navigate. Bondi Beach and Oxford Street are at the heart of Sydney’s gay scene, offering opportunities to meet new people.

The city also hosts the annual Mardi Gras Parade, one of the largest LGBT+ celebrations in the world. Accommodation options are diverse, with many hotels in Darlinghurst and Surry Hills known for their inclusivity. Sydney combines relaxation with high-energy events, making it a rewarding choice for gay single holidays.

Ask us about tailored Sydney holiday offers if you’re planning a trip Down Under.

Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City is an increasingly popular choice for LGBT+ travellers. Its Zona Rosa neighbourhood is full of gay-friendly venues, while the city itself offers world-class museums, colourful markets, and historic landmarks. Solo visitors find the warmth of local culture welcoming, and the city’s nightlife is a major draw.

Boutique hotels in Zona Rosa often cater specifically to LGBT+ travellers, giving you a safe base while exploring this dynamic capital.

We can also check whether there are exclusive offers available for Mexico City.

Practical Extras for Solo LGBT+ Travellers

A few final tips help ensure your solo journey is memorable for the right reasons:

• Pack smart – bring versatile clothing that suits both daytime exploring and nights out.
• Join group tours – they’re a great way to meet fellow travellers without losing independence.
• Learn key phrases – even basic local words show respect and make daily interactions easier.
• Stay flexible – sometimes the best travel moments happen when plans change.
• Trust your instincts – if something feels off, step away.

Each small decision adds to your safety and enjoyment. Solo travel is about balance: embracing freedom while looking after yourself.

Why Book Your Gay Single Holidays with Wide Awake Holidays

At Wide Awake Holidays, we believe your journey should be as unique as you are. Being gay-owned, we understand the importance of feeling seen, supported, and welcomed. We don’t just suggest hotels and flights — we tailor-make trips that reflect your style, budget, and comfort.

When you book through us, you benefit from:

A personal travel service with a dedicated team

Access to a wide network of trusted suppliers and operators

Full financial protection through ATOL and Protected Trust Services

Tailor-made itineraries that suit your individual needs



Solo travel is one of the most empowering choices you can make. With us, you’ll never feel like you’re doing it alone.

Plan Your Next Adventure

Ready to start planning your next adventure? Your gay single holidays deserve more than just “gay friendly.” Let Wide Awake Holidays create a trip where you feel safe, celebrated, and inspired.

Call us today on 01495 400947 or use our holiday enquiry form to begin your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions