The concept of solo travel may seem reserved for 20-year-old single backpackers, but could it be for those in relationships? Travel reporter Fionn Davenport joins Drivetime on RTÉ Radio 1 to discuss the matter. Listen back above.
"It has taken me many years, not just to become comfortable with traveling alone, but to cherish and really enjoy traveling alone," says Fionn, who insists he once dreaded far-flung assignments or even dining alone.
In his younger years, he feared being seen as a 'Johnny no mates', but now Davenport insists that he loves solo adventure and embraces the chance to connect with new people.
"If you're traveling alone - short of being hermitic where you're just talking to nobody - you're forced to engage with the destination and the people in that destination. That's, I think, the essence of great travel, and I think it does take courage. I think it takes courage for a lot of people."
Although it may seem odd to spend your precious time off work away from your romantic partner, the travel journalist insists that the occasional solo trip is "good for the soul" and a great opportunity to come home with new stories.
When asked where he wouldn't travel alone, Fionn simply says: "I probably wouldn't go to the Costa del Sol."
"That is literally designed for groups of friends and families," he adds, explaining that his favourite thing to do as a solo traveler is to explore a new city.
"I love walking around a city on my own because, also, I go at my own pace," he explains. "I like to get up early and, also, I'm boring; I visit museums and look at churches, and honest to God, I wouldn't inflict that on everybody."
In the early days of his career, back when he dreaded eating alone while on assignment, Davenport says he would order a main course and "wolf it down" so he could be back in his hotel room as soon as possible.
These days, however, he luxuriates in the experience and suggests bringing a book if new to the experience.
You can listen back to Fionn's chat on Drivetime above.
