Solo relaxation/exploring ideas -Nov/Dec

Wonka_2

I’ll be getting my pension TFLS in Oct and after years of looking after others it’s time to do something for me. Big family trip will happen in ‘26 but I’ve 16 days free in Nov/Dec ‘25 for me (late 50’s, healthy male)

I’ve spent the last 25yrs travelling with work - mainly Europe/Middle East/Far East and whilst there are plenty of European places I’d go they’re unlikely to tick the ‘sun’ box at that time of year. 

Key elements are water (for views/relaxation/swimming), vibrancy or serenity depending on my mood on the day, and acceptance as a solo traveller. 

Current thoughts are :
Qatar/Abu Dhabi and take in both F1 races
A cruise (never done one and an unknown quantity travelling solo)
Twin centre - Florida/NYC, CapeTown/Beach, Singapore/Malaysia for example 

Any suggestions from people in similar situations who’ve had positive experiences ? 

Voyager2002

For 16 days, I suggest avoiding long-haul flights so that you don't waste ten per cent of your holiday resting after an exhausting journey: to say nothing of possible jet-lag issues. The shortest flights from the UK to guaranteed sunshine (and sea-water) would go to the Canary Islands and Madeira; to Egypt; and to Cape Verde. 

The Gulf is a little further than Egypt. I visited Abu Dhabi and found it to be ghastly and soul-less, but nearby is Muscat and the Sultanate of Oman, which offered plenty of atmosphere, art and history as well as most of your "key elements".

South Africa might be a little too far for your limited time. If you do go there, consider Ethiopian Airlines, since their flights offer a stopover in Addis Ababa at zero additional cost.

You might also consider the Caribbean. Cuba offers enormous vibrancy along with acceptance of solo travellers, but since there are no direct flights the journey is a little time-consuming, and the ability to speak some Spanish really enhances the experience.  

TheShape

You've said you travelled to the Middle East for work.  has that not given you an idea about how Qatar/Abu Dhabi would be?

I've been to the UAE in November.  It's hot then but not unbearably so.  I personally didn't find the beaches in Dubai to be likely to tick your boxes (for views/relaxation/swimming).

In Europe, the Canaries are your best bet at that time of year.  

End of Nov/Dec is getting into the season for the Carribean.  I've loved the beaches in the Carribean when I've been.

Wonka_2

TheShape said:

You've said you travelled to the Middle East for work.  has that not given you an idea about how Qatar/Abu Dhabi would be?

I've been to the UAE in November.  It's hot then but not unbearably so.  I personally didn't find the beaches in Dubai to be likely to tick your boxes (for views/relaxation/swimming).

In Europe, the Canaries are your best bet at that time of year.  

End of Nov/Dec is getting into the season for the Carribean.  I've loved the beaches in the Carribean when I've been.

Indeed - although my ME visits have been very ‘business’ focussed (airport hotels, limited downtime etc) I know I won’t be heading back there unless there’s an event involved eg F1. 

Yawn

The Canaries would be really good in November, just before the start of the winter peak and the weather would still be in the mid 20s. Some of the smaller Islands (La Gomera, La Palma) are fantastic if you want to get off the beaten paths. 

I've not been but the Azores might also be an option. I've not heard great things about Cape Verde. A friend went to Ghana and loved it. My partner's aunt did a cruise from South Africa to Portugal and raved about it.

If money is no obstacle, then the Maldives? 

daveyjp

Its a number of years since we visisted, but Malaysia is well worth a visit.  Easy to mix and match with time spent in KL, the mainland and the islands such as Penang or Langkawi.  It easy enough to add a couple of days in Singapore - although that isn't a place I'd rush back to.

Suzycoll

Wonka_2 said:

I’ll be getting my pension TFLS in Oct and after years of looking after others it’s time to do something for me. Big family trip will happen in ‘26 but I’ve 16 days free in Nov/Dec ‘25 for me (late 50’s, healthy male)

I’ve spent the last 25yrs travelling with work - mainly Europe/Middle East/Far East and whilst there are plenty of European places I’d go they’re unlikely to tick the ‘sun’ box at that time of year. 

Key elements are water (for views/relaxation/swimming), vibrancy or serenity depending on my mood on the day, and acceptance as a solo traveller. 

Current thoughts are :
Qatar/Abu Dhabi and take in both F1 races
A cruise (never done one and an unknown quantity travelling solo)
Twin centre - Florida/NYC, CapeTown/Beach, Singapore/Malaysia for example 

Any suggestions from people in similar situations who’ve had positive experiences ? 

hi Wonka 

wow- congrats on your upcoming retirement.

I'm not sure of your budget but ....

Have you thought of Sri Lanka ? shoulder season in November, so quieter. Plenty of companies that will provide a tour (around 7 days) and 7 days or less on the beautiful beaches. Its an amazing place.

Cruises - I regularly travel solo on a cruise and LOVE them. There are meet ups (if you want to meet others) and share a drink/dinner/theatre. Or you can totally do your own thing and swim, sunbathe or whatever floats your boat (see what I done there !) Ha 
November/December - I would say Caribbean cruise - there are loads. Or Asia.
Norwegian ,Marella P & O are good for solo travellers (mostly British guests).Royal Caribbean good for everything (mainly American guests).

Twin centre Florida sounds good - although I personally find it a bit cold in Nov/Dec (not as cold as UK!).
Fly into Miami (OK for a short while) and if you are able, pick up a car and drive down the Keys. 

I cant comment on Singapore (only been to the airport) but is on my bucket list 

whichever you choose ENJOY 

twopenny

I haven't checked the latest reviews or itinerary but I went on this boat in the Maldives a couple of times and would happily go lots more if my health were different.

https://rtctravel.co.uk/holidays/cruise-holidays/maldives-cruising/

They seem to have put some holiwood gloss in the ad as it's an old boat but spotless and friendly. Simple but delicious fresh food 
Fly, land on airstrip by sea, walk across the road and on the boat. No transfers needed.

Temp 29c on land and in Chrystal clear water with a different reef every day to snorkel or swim. You can mix or idle on your own. Night BBQ under the stars. On an deserted island etc. snorkeling, fishing or relaxing 

My first trip I thought I'd be bored but the relaxation factor with exercise and stunning beauty if you like natural world.
Couldn't wait to get back.

It's not a cruise but it is sailing round deserted islands and sandbanks each with a different type of reef. 
Price cheaper than the islands 

GlasgowExpat2

16 days in Cape Town would give you plenty of time to explore the sights and relax in the sun. Maybe split your time and stay some of the time in Cape Town and part further along the coast. If you love food and wine Cape Town is great, plenty of vineyards to visit. Weather is perfect at that time of year. I’ve been several times, one of my favourite places. No jet lag is a bonus too!

RAS

Much as I love la Gomera and El Hierro, they are not really beach locations and I'd not sure either could be described as vibrant, even though there's more accommodation at Gran Rey and San Sebastian than when I was last there. And both now have several eating places.