A Tale of Serendipity 

Rachel had experienced more than her fair share of heartache in recent years. She’d lost both her parents in quick succession and just last year, her sister-in-law had been diagnosed with cancer.

Whilst going through the painstaking task of going through her parents’ property, she came across a beautiful framed print of Lake Como from a time they’d visited there. Fate perhaps? Or just a happy memory she happened to stumble upon?

Rachel decided to see it as a sign. With two grown children who could more or less take care of themselves, and a husband who supported her decision to spread her wings, she knew it was time. This is her story…

‘Taking that leap’

“For my first Solos trip, I picked a relatively short trip of four nights. My thought process was that if it wasn’t a success, it was only a few days to pass.

But I needn’t have worried as everyone on the trip was keen to chat, very friendly and open about their background. Those who had travelled before shared their previous Solos holiday experiences, and us ‘newbies’ had a chance to have a chat about taking the plunge to book our first one.

‘Home Comforts’

When we arrived at the hotel in Como, I felt instantly at home. Once my case was unpacked and clothes hung in the wardrobe, I began to relax and felt that way for the duration of the trip.

‘Bonding’

I love how quickly the group bonded! Having met one solo traveller on the plane and another on the coach transfer, by the welcome drink and evening meal, conversations were flowing, and new friendships were being made.

I never for one minute felt on my own. I enjoyed having a holiday family I could spend time with or have time away from.

‘Shared memory’

Now I’ve visited this beautiful place, I’m going to hang my parent’s picture in my own home. It’s now a shared memory.”