Why women can go it alone

Fear of seeming friendless or single prevents many people, especially women, from socialising or travelling by themselves, but going solo has its advantages, says Caroline Allen.

DOING things alone, whether it’s travelling or something as simple as going to the cinema or eating out, can be something akin to root canal treatment for many people, especially for women. It’s acceptable for men to go to the pub alone, but women feel the stigma of appearing friendless or of fielding unwanted attention.

Yet many women have partners working abroad, so have to attend exhibitions and events alone.