I’ve done extensive net research on solo travel over 40 and all I get is information on singles travel, dating, and group tours. There is a huge difference between solo travel and singles travel. Solo travel is about the individual who chooses to travel alone, independently. The traveler may or not be single but the important fact is that they are choosing to go solo. Singles travel is about the person who travels to meet other people or to travel with a group. There’s certainly nothing wrong with singles travel but I don’t think it belongs next to solo travel. Here are my thoughts… As a solo traveler, I have accidently stumbled upon unique places that I would not have experienced if I had been in a group. I have been welcomed into local homes and treated as an honored guest despite speaking very little of the local language. I can change my itinerary at any time and I have no restrictions on where & when I want to go. I absolutely love it! I do admit, though, there is a downside. A great deal of pre-departure research and reservations are required to organize a solo, independent trip. Sometimes I get lonely and would like a companion to share in my travels. It can be frustrating at times trying to figure out local transportation such as the bus or train. And need I mention the language barrier? Nevertheless, solo travel is an adventure that inspires courage, dedication, and personal growth. What do you think? Is there a difference?
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I completely agree with you. There is a HUGE difference between singles travel and solo travel. Whenever I hear the phrase “singles travel”, it makes me think of people who are trying to find someone while traveling to hook up with. Fair or not, that’s what I think of. That’s not my scene.
I wouldn’t say that solo travelers don’t want to meet people (I like to meet new people when I travel solo), but the main reason we’re on the road is the travel. We just happen to be going solo. It’s what you said–independent travel, the ability to be flexible, do things at your own pace, etc. I prefer that.
The phrase “singles” used anywhere definitely has connotations of “single but don’t want to keep it that way”; that is, they are indeed looking to meet someone to mate with. Thanks for the distinction.
Thanks for your comment. I’ve had a really hard time researching single/solo travel over 40! Guess I just need to travel more and share my own findings!