The Cool Way to Skip Valentine’s Day (Hint: Leave Town)

It’s that time of the year where aisles are lined with heart-shaped chocolates, inboxes are filled with couples-only deals, and restaurants only seem to advertise tables for two. For those of us who reject the notion of having one day a year to celebrate, my single pals flying solo, or groups looking to celebrate love with friends or family, it’s time to channel our inner Eloise Bridgerton and travel on our own terms. Whether that means flying solo, planning a friends-only escape, or turning February into a month-long act of self-indulgence, these anti-valentine’s ideas prove that love doesn’t need a reservation for two.

Forget romantic boat rides and charming streets. This February, it’s all about urban city breaks that feel vibrant, independent, and most of all, fun! This year, Dublin was named the #1 destination in the world for solo travelers, and it’s no surprise why. Friendly locals and the energy of the city make it extremely easy to feel welcome and meet new people. As an avid solo traveler myself, my number one tip is to join a tour on the first day, which is what I did with Kevin’s Walking Food Tours. Three hours of Irish banter, history, and off-path destinations. It’s a low-pressure way to meet new friends. 

Sticking to the Emerald Isle, Belfast is another city perfect for an anti-romantic city break. Whether you’re a history buff, spirit lover, or curious about the city’s lesser-known narratives, Belfast by the Glass offers an engaging and welcoming atmosphere to learn it all. In a speakeasy setting, Belfast’s past and present are told through storytelling and various drinks. Just a few minutes into my experience, and I’d already felt like I knew my guide, Kieran, for years. Another good spot to meet new people is through the Titanic Distillery tour, or by chatting to local vendors at St. George’s Market.

For those who want to travel solo without actually being alone, cue the group trip. To all my single 30+ ladies out there: we’re just looking for like-minded people on the same life journey and maybe a few meaningful connections along the way.

In my early 20’s, I packed my bags and ventured off on an EF Ultimate Break trip with 25 strangers from Amsterdam to Athens. In the process I fell in love with travel, met my best friend, and romanticized my life in the best way possible. While this type of trip was open to everyone, the company just launched a slew of women-only trips (EF Ultimate Break’s Solo for Women collection) for those seeking female friendship, independence, and trips that aren’t focused on finding “the one.”

And EF isn’t the only option. Today, a growing number of travel companies are designing trips for solo adventurers. Flashpack offers small‑group adventures around the world for all ages (30-49’s or 45–59’s), FTLO focuses on local immersion for 25-39’s, and G Adventures lets travelers pick from solo-ish trips to active experiences.

Maybe a hotel-staycation is exactly what the doctor ordered, but you’re self-conscious about the hoards of couples checking in for their romantic getaways. Across the globe, there’s an array of hotels designed for solo travelers, with cozy rooms and lively activities to meet people. Including the CitizenM Hotels and Generator Hostels. In locations from across Europe and the U.S., both brands are known for their compact rooms, bar areas, and huge lounges that double as social/co-working spaces. Attracting mostly business and solo travelers, they’re the ideal place to meet people, too.  

Speaking of compact, many hotels are now designing their rooms with the solo traveler in mind. At the Omni Hotel in Boston, their Artist Tower is designed for those traveling alone, with rooms reflecting more of a studio apartment vibe. This trend has also made its way across the pond, with the Hoxton Hotels offering “shoebox” rooms and functioning as buzzing social hubs. 

Just because you’re not in a relationship, doesn’t mean you’re not looking for a connection on Valentine’s Day. From live music and cocktail classes to trivia nights, happy hours, and yoga classes, hotels such as the Moxy, Freehand, and Eaton DC have a variety of events to mingle without the pressure. On a recent solo trip to Stockholm, I stayed at Downtown Camper by Scandic and found a community in the city center with a running club, networking breaks, and classes. 

And what if you’re not in the mood to celebrate, but would rather focus on restoration? Cabo Villas, a part of Nocturne Luxury Villas collection, is offering a broken heart butler. Yes. You read that right! Services range from personalized wellness sessions and hands-on cooking classes to experiences that focus on nurturing and exploration.

Rather than traditional couple-centric experiences, maybe it’s high-time to jump on the “touching grass” travel trend, practice a little self-love, and connect with nature. This year is all about community through shared experiences and wellness– something I found in a rural region of Slovenia a few years ago. In the Western foothills of Goričko, I found myself sitting around the fireplace, singing along to songs strummed by Chef Bine Volcic. Opened by him and his wife, Monstera Estate is a haven for guests seeking a communal stay and tasting experience, with meals thoughtfully prepared by the team. Sitting amongst strangers, it somehow became one of my fondest travel memories.

Imagine waking up everyday with a list of activations designed to connect, inspire, and appreciate the art of slowing down. Unlike general hotel stays, wellness retreats are targeting solo travelers through shared activities and the opportunity to meet like-minded people. Along the coast of Costa Rica’s Santa Teresa, Hotel Nantipa offers the perfect blend of pura vida lifestyle and community engagement. Think social dining, daily beach clean-ups, and yoga sessions. Meanwhile on the Southern Coast of Koh Sumai, Kamalaya has a mix of meditation salas, peaceful gardens, and community events.