Rome Alone! More women are travelling alone at Christmas to exotic locations from Havana to Rome

Dec. 11, 2024 - PRLog -- Christmas can be a very stressful time for women as they attempt to mediate between family members and organise endless lists. It's no wonder that a leading travel expert says an increasing number are planning to take a solo trip abroad.

Lily Smith, a leading tourism expert from Monasteries.com, says: 'Our research shows solo women travellers now outnumber solo male travellers by 67% to 37%, while 27% of British women say they are considering a holiday alone. But while a winter vacation to somewhere warmer or a little more exotic is undeniably attractive, 88% of females feel somewhat threatened travelling alone.

'For many women, the atmosphere and security of a convent, abbey or monastery is perfect at Christmas time. Accommodation is available in locations as fascinating as Rome and even Havana!

'For example, the Caribbean island of Cuba might not be the first location to spring to mind for women wishing to travel alone at Christmas (it has been a communist country since Castro's 1959 revolution). However, 58.9% of Cubans are Christian and Christmas was officially reinstated as a public holiday in 1998. The main celebration happens on Christmas Eve, known as "Nochebuena", when families gather for a traditional feast featuring roast pork, rice and beans.

'The Convento de Santa Brigida, in the heart of bustling Old Havana, is a lovely convent guest house within walking distance of the beach and most of the capital's tourist attractions. With newly updated guest rooms, it's managed by the Sisters of Santa Brígida. They speak English and welcome all travellers and pilgrims for holidays and overnight stays. Rooms are available from a very affordable £40.99 a night, including bed and breakfast, throughout December and January.

'Alternatively, travellers can rediscover the message of Christmas in Rome, where the Vatican holds 21 days of celebrations. Attractions include the famous Nativity scene in St Peter's Square, markets, carols and Masses.

'Casa Margherita Teresa, managed by the Convittrici del Bambin Gesù, is both secure and affordable. It's away from the centre of Rome and caters to a diverse range of guests, including families and solo travellers. It offers single, double, triple and quadruple rooms, all of which come equipped with private bathrooms. There's also a chapel for guests who are looking for a spiritual Christmas break. Rooms are available from just £57.30 a night this December, with full board costing from £94.70.

'For an increasing number of women travellers, explaining the security and ease of monasteries, convents and abbeys is like preaching to the choir. To find out more about staying in Rome on a budget and making the most of the city's year-round attractions, see the full online guide at  https://www.monasteries.com/en-GB/city/rome/home/