The Independent Parent: 'What's the best group holiday for singles?'

Q My daughter likes travelling outside Europe, while her friends do not, so she's thinking about arranging a holiday on her own in February somewhere far flung. What's the best way for her to find out about group holidays suitable for a single woman (mid-twenties), but not of the 18-30 variety? She's open to any suggestions.

Q My daughter likes travelling outside Europe, while her friends do not, so she's thinking about arranging a holiday on her own in February somewhere far flung. What's the best way for her to find out about group holidays suitable for a single woman (mid-twenties), but not of the 18-30 variety? She's open to any suggestions.

J Thirwell, via e-mail

A February is an excellent time to travel, as prices are lower and availability higher almost anywhere (except Amsterdam, Paris and Venice over Valentine's weekend). But since weather can make all the difference to a trip, I'd suggest the Caribbean, Mauritius or Egypt.

One obstacle for lone travellers is the often substantial single supplements imposed by hotels and tour operators. But if you travel with a specialist operator on an organised tour, the company may be able to match people up to share rooms on request.

Solo's Holidays (0870 0720 700; www.solosholidays.co.uk) specialises in holidays for over-25 single travellers to locations all over the world. A tour manager meets the group at their UK departure point and stays with them for the duration of the holiday, organising daily excursions and activities. Your daughter would be free to do her own thing at any point or join in with an array of organised itineraries. The group size tends to number 20 to 30 people and every effort is made to ensure ages and the ratio of men to women is evenly balanced. The company still has availability for its next tour, departing on 20 February to Mauritius.

The price of £1,319 includes return flights from London Heathrow to Mauritius, nine nights half-board accommodation in a single room, travel insurance and one excursion.

Your daughter might also consider a group "soft adventure" tour. Explore Worldwide (01252 760 000; www.exploreworldwide.com) offers an array of escorted trips to destinations like Cuba, Egpyt and Mexico. Single travellers account for around 50 per cent of its customers. Its 10-day Nile cruise in Egypt departs on 14 February and costs £760 including flights, transfers, accommodation and some meals.