Singapore’s Solo Travel Surge: The “Me‑Time” Movement
Travel’s usual vibe is all about group trips – until the blockbuster Eat, Pray, Love flipped the script and turned solo adventures into the latest trend.
A 2019 study by Klook teamed up with YouGov revealed that over 70 % of Singaporeans have already taken a solo trip or are seriously considering it.
Why the Shift?
When asked, our respondents cited two main draws:
- Uninterrupted “me‑time”—a chance to decompress without conversations about the latest shows and memes.
- A break from their daily routines, which many joked was more draining than the commute itself.
Bottom Line
With more wanderers craving privacy and a reset button, Singapore’s solo travel scene is hotter than ever. Whether it’s finding inner peace, discovering hidden corners, or just avoiding group selfies, the only thing left to decide is the next destination.
<img alt="" data-caption="Travellers want uninterrupted "me time" and to escape from their daily routines
GRAPHIC: Klook” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”2762d729-e45f-4e88-a575-517f1054b448″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/06112022_survey_klook.jpg”/>
Why Some Singaporeans Are Still On the Fence About Solo Adventures
Ever wonder why you still seem stuck at home even when the calendar is ready for an escape? A recent survey tells us the story: there’s more than half of us who’re still hanging back.
Top‑Takes: Safety & Solitude
- 55 % fear that being on their own could put them in danger.
- 50 % worry they’ll end up with a full‑time buddy‑buddy situation—late‑night loneliness, anyone?
Other Hurdles on the Road
- Planning and booking feels like a mini‑project that takes forever.
- The price tag for a lone‑wolf venture can be intimidating.
Food, Fun, & Freedom—The Real All‑You‑Need?
Singapore’s cooking scene is irresistible—living proof that when you’re free‑to‑explore, your plate becomes a passport. Ninety‑one 63 % of respondents say: “Trying local food is a must‑do when you’re traveling solo.” And that’s not just a joke; a destination like Japan? It’s a fiesta of bar seats, private booths, and culinary adventures that fit any solitary wanderer.
And hey—who said travel must follow a strict itinerary? Half of the crowd said they LOVE checking out attractions or simply wandering without a plan. The appeal? No need to sync with anyone else’s bedtime, bathroom routine, or lunch timing—just you, a map, and a brand new story to write.
Bottom Line
Turning your fear into fuel is the key. Safely navigate the world, indulge in your foodie cravings, and let the world surprise you—no itinerary required.
<img alt="" data-caption="When surveyed, most solo travellers said they want to visit local attractions.
GRAPHIC: Klook” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”7a3e52e0-aa62-47dd-9225-3a3413486447″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/06112022_survey_klook%20%281%29.jpg”/>
Flying Solo Into the New Year?
About a third of solo travelers say that “meeting locals” and “making new friends on the way” are the absolute musts. If you don’t get the thrill of striking up conversations with strangers, you might feel a splash of insecurity and loneliness. But here’s the good news: solo adventure is also a great reset button.
Use the Ministry of Foreign Affairs App for #SafetyFirst
Why? It’s a free check‑in. In case you hit a snag overseas, the MFA can track you faster.
Plan, Share, and Keep the “Plan” Shared
Want to live like Into the Wild? Sweet. But remember, share your day‑to‑day moves with someone back home. That way, if you drop off the grid, your mates can find you.
Make Your Host Spot Safe
- Skip the ground‑floor rooms: intruders love the elevator trick.
- Pick hotels or guest houses next to public transit. AirBnB in a deserted forest? Not recommended.
Choose a Spot Where At Least One Friendly Person Is Near
Either a friend or a family member living nearby gives you a backup call if the loneliness gets too loud or a stomach rattles.
Dive Into a Short‑Term Adventure
Grab a guided museum walk, a city walking tour, or a wine‑cheers class. These give you a way to talk to locals without the “together for the whole trip” pressure.
Enroll in a Fun Class
Why not book an Italian pizza‑making lesson? Or a Japanese tea ceremony? Not only do you taste good food, you also chat with a teacher ready to spill cultural tea.
Bring a Book—Everywhere
A novel or a handy guide can save you from awkward moments at a café. Plus, in a pinch, it might double as a trusty weapon.
Keep these simple checks in mind, and your solo trip turns from nervous to neat.
First published on Wonderwall.sg—upgraded with a bit of humor.
