This week, Gilly Bachelor had the incredible honour of joining The Independent Travel Podcast alongside Simon Calder, one of the UK’s most respected travel journalists, to talk about the joys and challenges of travelling solo — particularly for women.

“For me, this was such a proud moment,” Gilly reflected. “Over the years, I’ve spoken to so many women who want to travel but feel held back by confidence, expectations from others, or the simple challenge of finding a travel partner whose diary and budget align. Too often, the trip doesn’t happen — and that sense of adventure stays on the shelf.”

Different Perspectives, Shared Passion

Simon Calder, Senior Travel Editor at The Independent, has been reporting on travel trends, industry developments, and the evolving ways we explore the world for decades. But for this podcast, he wanted to go beyond industry news to hear from a travel professional on the front lines.

“We’re the ones hearing the doubts, the fears, the excitement — and we’re helping women turn that first idea into a real trip,” Gilly explained.

The conversation between journalist and travel professional provided a rich and nuanced view of solo female travel, highlighting not just the statistics, but the personal stories behind every decision to travel alone.

You can listen to the full episode here: The Independent Travel Podcast – Going Solo.

Perfect Timing

The podcast aired in the same week that Gilly and Katrina Lowes, co-founders of No Stopping Her, hosted Brewood’s very first event under their new series designed to inspire and support women to travel solo. From seasoned adventurers to women rebuilding their lives after divorce or bereavement, the gatherings provide a safe, encouraging space to share stories, gain practical tips, and realise that wanting to go it alone is both normal and empowering.

About Simon Calder

Often called “the nation’s travel guru,” Simon Calder is known for his no-nonsense advice, deep industry knowledge, and genuine passion for helping travellers make the most of their journeys. Regularly appearing on BBC Breakfast, The One Show, and countless radio programs, his podcast brings together expert voices and lived experiences to explore the ever-changing world of travel.

You can learn more about Simon here.

Looking Ahead

Being invited onto Simon’s podcast was not only a personal milestone for Gilly but also a reminder of why No Stopping Her exists. “Solo travel isn’t just an abstract trend to analyse; it’s a very real, very personal choice that women are grappling with every day,” she said.

By opening up these conversations — whether through national media or around the table at a community meet-up — Gilly and her team hope more women will feel ready to take that first solo adventure.

Here’s to more stories, more first steps, and more women declaring: There’s no stopping me.

Again, you can check out the full podcast episode here.

If you’re ready to take that first step into solo travel, or perhaps you’re already a seasoned solo traveller looking to venture off onto your next adventure, no matter what stage of your journey you’re on, get in contact with us to start planning! Give us a call on 01902 288104 or book a call.