Solo travel takes off in Metro Detroit

By the numbers: In Hostelworld's recently released 2025 survey of more than 3,300 solo travelers, 64% said freedom and spontaneity were among the best parts of traveling alone.

• Solo doesn't necessarily mean lonely: 58% said they wanted to meet new people, up from 43% in 2024.
• And 63% of first-time solo travelers said they planned to do it again.

Zoom out: The trend isn't just for 20-something backpackers, either.

• While younger travelers are driving much of the boom, tour operators like Collette are also seeing a growing demand from older travelers — particularly among women 50 and over.

💭 Joe's thought bubble: I like to add a day of solo time to the front or back end of trips. It's a great way to explore your surroundings at your leisure, with no expectations but your own.

The bottom line: Book the trip.