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Fresh air. Clear mind. Necessary reset. Solitude. Adventure. Freedom.
There are many reasons to travel alone, and women are taking advantage of every opportunity. The number of women trekking on their own has surged in recent years, with Condor Ferries and Travelzoo report that a whopping 84% of solo travelers are women. The trend is expected to continue growing, with solo female travel projected to grow by nearly 15% between 2026 and 2033, according to Grand View Research.
From pioneer to masses
Adventure awaits in Palm Springs. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs
The very first woman noted to travel solo was Austrian Ida Pfeiffer. In 1842, she separated from her husband, her children having grown and gone from home. Pfeiffer lied to her friends and set off down the Danube, embarking on an adventure that would last nine months. She later wrote a book about her travels, filled with tips for fellow adventurers to follow.
Fast forward several decades and further books and films enticed women to embark on traveling solo. Elizabeth Gilbert’s post-divorce journey in Eat, Pray, Love and Cheryl Strayed’s solitary hike to process grief in Wild are two inspiring solo-travel memoirs.
Once the world re-opened after the lockdown of 2020, more travel-starved women packed their bags and headed out, fully living life.
The benefits of solo travel
Floating in the pool is a must-do for every solo guest at The Muse Hotel. Photo courtesy of The Muse Hotel
Whether it be the thrill of a new adventure or the flexibility and freedom to do what you want, when you want, the benefits of solo travel are many.
Freelance writer Sharon Kurtz has been traveling solo for decades and feels more capable as a result. She led group expeditions for 10 years, taking first-time solo women travelers under her wing. “The women would often start out intimidated and fearful, and by the end of trip, you would see their confidence grow and bloom,” she said.
What may start as a challenging experience in solitude can be a beneficial mental reset, providing necessary relaxation and leading to enhanced wellness. The journey of self-discovery can elevate into greater confidence, bolder living, and even deeper connection.
Resources to connect with fellow female solo travelers are abundant. There are several online groups, such as Solo in Style and Journey Woman, dedicated to women over 50.
Palm Springs: The perfect place to start (or continue) solo travel
Sound baths are a relaxing way to spend a Palm Springs afternoon. Photo credit: A. Kim
Whether you are a seasoned solo traveler or just beginning, Palm Springs is a safe, vibrant, walkable, and welcoming city to get started.
Explore nature and soak in the beauty of the surrounding mountains with hikes, visiting the Living Desert, or hopping on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
Explore the Palm Springs Art Museum, local galleries, and extensive public art. You can sightsee by yourself or join a walking tour to learn more about the city’s rich history, architecture, and design.
Refuel with delicious food and recharge at a sound bath.
Whatever you choose to do, you’ll realize Palm Springs is truly a unique experience.
Solo-travel friendly hotels
Enjoy Palm Springs’ wonderful weather day or night at Talavera Palm Springs. Photo courtesy of Talavera Palm Springs
While each Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotel has a unique vibe and welcomes solo guests, here are a few highlights.
Dive Palm Springs: Dive Palm Springs offers female solo travelers a stay that feels both safe and effortlessly social. The intimate, enclosed layout and attentive service create a strong sense of security, while the welcoming staff ensures you feel taken care of from arrival to departure. Centered around a lively yet relaxed courtyard, the hotel pairs wellness amenities — including an infrared sauna, cold plunge, and pool — with a warm, design-forward atmosphere. It’s quiet without feeling empty, dog-friendly, and ideal for female solo travelers who want to unwind while still feeling subtly connected to the energy of Palm Springs.
Talavera Palm Springs: Talavera Palm Springs is a private, tucked-away retreat designed for female solo travelers seeking comfort, safety, and complete control. With individual suites, private patios, and in-room Jacuzzis, it offers a highly secure and personal environment, complemented by thoughtful, attentive service. The atmosphere is serene and slightly hidden, while still being walking distance from downtown Palm Springs, giving guests the perfect balance of privacy and access. Dog-friendly and quietly luxurious, Talavera is ideal for solo travelers looking for calm, convenience, and a stay that feels entirely their own.
The Hideaway: The Hideaway offers the perfect space for solo travelers seeking solitude. It’s quiet, giving you a sense of being by yourself even while you are poolside. The music and mobile-free zone make you feel like you have the entire resort to yourself. Gate code access ensures safety as you soak up the sun and energy of the San Jacinto mountains. For women wanting to connect, COO Karima Zaki has plans to create mid-week stays dedicated to solo travelers, offering social options to gather for meals and excursions to connect with fellow travelers.
La Maison, Korakia Pensione, Sparrows Lodge, The Muse, and Terra Palm Springs are other good options for solo women travelers.
Whether it is your first trip solo or your 50th, Palm Springs looks forward to welcoming you!
