Fly and flop solo travel is on the rise this summer, according to new research conducted by loveholidays.
The online travel agent’s recently published Recharge report reveals solo summer holidays to popular beach destinations such as mainland Spain, the Canary Islands and Portugal have jumped by a fifth (19%) versus last year.
Solo sunbathers are rushing to secure their loungers in Benidorm in particular, with the Spanish resort topping the list of destinations for single holidaymakers this summer, surging by 80% versus last year.
Known for its golden sand beaches, welcoming atmosphere and lively social scene, Benidorm also has a peaceful side, perfect for those seeking a slower pace and wanting to fly-and-flop.
Its Old Town is dotted with authentic restaurants and wine bars with a laid-back, walk-in attitude. Bars in the Costa Blancan resort also regularly host karaoke nights, cabarets and comedy shows, making it equally easy for solo travellers to mix.
Playa de las Americas in Tenerife and San Antonio in Ibiza follow closely behind as the second and third most popular destinations for solo travellers respectively. While both destinations are recognised for their lively nightlife, they also offer pockets of tranquillity for holidaymakers looking to recuperate.
Playa del Camisón in Playa de las Americas and nearby Playa de El Bobo boast a relaxed atmosphere with calm waters suitable for swimming, while San Antonio Bay offers quiet beaches perfect for swimming or reading a book.
Agadir and Albufeira are also popular among solo sunbathers this summer, with the former a laid-back city home to a marina and beaches ideal for sunbathing, swimming and soaking up the Moroccan sun. It’s not only a place that’s easy to get around on foot, it’s full of casual restaurants and cafés suitable for solo diners.
Alternatively, Albufeira offers a wide range of activities for solo travellers at a slower pace. Whether that’s joining a wine-tasting tour, lounging on one of many sandy beaches the coastal city has to offer, or joining in a beach volleyball game on Praia dos Pescadores, there is something for every kind of solo sun seeker.
Commenting on the analysis, Al Murray, Chief Marketing Officer at loveholidays, said: “Solo travel is taking off this summer, with our customers choosing to jet off to fly-and-flop favourites including Benidorm, Playa de las Americas and San Antonio for their well-earned breaks. These beachside resorts offer the perfect blend of relaxation and bustling nightlife, offering something for every type of solo traveller.”
The top 10 summer solo travel destinations according to loveholidays:
To explore solo holidays with loveholidays, visit here.