An increasing number of women are opting to spend the festive season abroad, seeking refuge from the pressures of traditional family gatherings. A growing trend is seeing solo female travellers head to destinations from Rome to Havana, with many choosing convents, monasteries, and abbeys as their accommodation of choice.
Lily Smith, a tourism expert at Monasteries.com, suggests that the rise in solo female travel is due to several factors, including the overwhelming responsibilities women often face at Christmas. “Research shows that solo women travellers now outnumber men by 67% to 37%. Meanwhile, 27% of British women are considering a holiday alone,” Smith explains. However, despite the growing popularity of solo travel, safety remains a key concern, with 88% of women expressing some apprehension about travelling solo.
Smith believes that convents and monasteries provide the ideal setting for women seeking both a secure environment and a more meaningful holiday experience. These establishments, she says, offer “a sense of safety and tranquillity, often with the added benefit of being in historic and fascinating locations like Rome and Havana.”
For many women, the serene atmosphere of these places, combined with their welcoming nature, offers a refuge from the commercialism of the festive season. “Monasteries and convents are often far more intimate and friendly than impersonal hotels. Many offer quiet retreats with curfews that ensure security, which can be particularly appealing for solo female travellers,” Smith adds.
One such example is the Convento de Santa Brigida in Old Havana, Cuba. Although Cuba may not traditionally be considered a destination for solo travellers, it has become increasingly popular due to its Christian traditions. The convent offers comfortable, affordable accommodation at £40.99 a night, including breakfast, and is located close to Havana’s main tourist attractions.
Another popular destination for women seeking peace and safety this Christmas is Rome. The Casa Margherita Teresa, located on the outskirts of the city, offers single rooms starting at £57.30 a night, with full board available for an additional £37.40. Managed by the Convittrici del Bambin Gesù, the establishment caters to solo travellers and families alike. It also boasts a chapel for those wanting to experience a spiritual Christmas.
For those who prefer to be closer to the heart of the action, Domus Australia offers ensuite rooms starting at £156 a night. Located near the Vatican, this convent is an ideal base for exploring Rome’s Christmas celebrations, including the famous Nativity scene in St Peter’s Square and the Christmas Mass at the Vatican.
While convents and monasteries may not offer the same luxury as traditional hotels, many guests appreciate the simplicity and peaceful atmosphere they provide. For women seeking an escape from the festive chaos, these places offer a rare chance to recharge, reflect, and embrace a more serene way to celebrate Christmas.
As solo female travel continues to rise, destinations that prioritise safety, comfort, and authenticity, like these monasteries, are proving to be increasingly popular choices for those looking to enjoy a calm, meaningful Christmas away from home. 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/