We all know the saying ‘it takes a village’, but in today’s society where that crucial village no longer exists the way it’s supposed to, most moms find themselves trying to do it all. Sound familiar?
When you’re constantly giving, it’s easy to forget about recharging your own batteries. That’s why this Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity to focus on YOU! Forget about chocolates, flowers, or even a family getaway. This time, consider heading off on your own solo adventure and leave those responsibilities behind (with a trusted family member, of course) – even if just for a weekend.
“As a mother myself, I understand just how much it takes to keep everything running smoothly –somehow, we always manage to keep pouring… even from a close-to-empty cup. Understandably, every now and then we need a break away from it all to refill and recharge. That’s why I advocate for solo travel as a means for mothers to press pause, indulge in some well-deserved relaxation, and return refreshed and ready to tackle whatever life throws at them,” says Bongi Keswa, Marketing Manager at Flight Centre South Africa.
Did you know that solo female travel is on the rise? In fact, Flight Centre South Africa’s ‘South Africa’s Year in Travel 2023’ report revealed that the travel retailer’s most common customer in 2023 was a woman between 50 and 59 travelling on her own (and London, Rome, and Mauritius were her top picks)!
Ready to follow in these ladies’ footsteps? Here’s a round-up of 10 unforgettable solo retreats to inspire you just in time for Mother’s Day.
South African spoils
Sometimes, the perfect escape is closer than you think.
- Luxury in the Winelands: Think rolling vineyards bathed in sunshine, luxurious spa treatments to melt away your stress, gourmet meals you won’t have to share – and, most importantly, someone always at the ready to top up your wine glass.
- Whale-watching and wellness: Picture an oceanfront retreat, like Morukuru Beach Lodge in De Hoop Nature and Marine Reserve, where your day starts with mindful meditation, followed by nourishing therapies. Saltwater swims and beach walks with sunset views and whales breaching just a few metres away also await.
- A safari in Lion Sands Game Reserve: Put your feet up in a luxury tent at an eco-lodge, soak up the silence of the bush (no more overstimulation for you!), tuck into starlit dinners, and surround yourself with our country’s most gorgeous wildlife.
“Lion Sands Game Reserve is a true South African classic – and it’s also where the current Safari Guide of the Year – and the first woman to win the title – Kimberlee Le Hanie brings the magic of the bush to life,” comments Keswa.
Globally grand
Escape to an entirely new world and do something completely different.
- Ayurvedic rejuvenation in Kerala, India: If yoga and meditation aren’t quite cutting it, try healing mind, body, and soul with a deep reset through Ayurvedic rejuvenation, which includes Panchakarma (a 5-part detoxification process), herbal supplements, specialised massages with medicated oils, and herbal steam baths. Kerala is where you’ll find some of India’s finest Ayurvedic retreats.
- Thermal baths and alpine charm, Lake Bled, Slovenia: Lake Bled is tucked away in the Julian Alps – a true Slovenian gem renowned for its crystal-clear lake, charming island with a historic church, and the healing properties of its thermal springs (usually ranging in temperature from 20°C to 23°C). Plus, along with the revitalising mineral waters, there’s plenty of hiking and biking to enjoy.
- Glamping in the Moroccan desert: Glamping – or glamorous camping – in the stone-and-gravel Moroccan desert gets you back to basics with just the right amount of creature comforts. Pair stylish tents with desert yoga under the twinkling stars and sunset hot air ballooning for a truly unique solo escape.
Energising getaways
Mix self-care with adventure for a solo holiday that leaves you equal parts revitalised and energised:
- Trekking the Inca Trail, Peru: This four-day, three-night trek has an epic conclusion – the awe-inspiring sight of iconic Machu Picchu.
“Prepare to walk a legendary trail that takes you through diverse landscapes, ancient ruins, significantly high altitudes, and the heart of Peruvian culture – a testament to your strength and resilience, with incredible rewards along the way,” says Keswa.
- Surfing and self-care in Bali, Indonesia: Relax in the sunshine, catch some waves at beginner-friendly surf camps, find your zen through daily yoga classes, and explore rice paddies, ancient temples, and bustling local markets. If you dare, give the world’s most expensive coffee, Kopi Luwak, a try (produced from partially digested coffee cherries collected from the excrement of civets).
- Northern Lights adventure, Iceland: Get out your travel bucket list – standing beneath a sky dancing with the colourful swirls of the Aurora Borealis should be right at the top (book your trip for between September and April for clearer night skies)! Throw in long soaks in geothermal hot springs and exhilarating glacier trekking to round off your adventurous escape.
- The Camino de Santiago, Spain: This network of ancient pilgrim routes promises a transformative adventure. Walk at your own pace, meet fellow pilgrims from around the globe, and discover the simple joys of life on foot. While the trek typically takes about 35 days to complete, you can get your pilgrim certificate by walking at least the last 100 km into Santiago (taking you five to six days, averaging about 20 km per day).
Not keen on solo travel? Swap going solo for a ‘moms only’ getaway with friends or your sister(s) or even a multigenerational treat with your own mom – bonding, shared experiences, and those precious memories are priceless.
You give so much of yourself to others. A just-for-you journey is your reminder that your own well-being deserves just as much attention. Whether it’s a luxurious getaway close to home or an exciting globe-trotting journey, give yourself the gift of time and space to recharge this Mother’s Day.