A dense wedge of cloud stripes the horizon, sprouting a quiff of powdery wisps that sweeps across the sky. I’m sat on the beach in Tamarin – a traditional fishing village on Mauritius’ west coast – watching as the dipping sun backlights the scene with a soft golden glow.

If you never go, you’ll never know –so, is it time to book those flights yet?

Travelling alone can be daunting, but also liberating –as it appears more women are embracing their wanderlust and flying solo. In fact, booking website Hostelworld has revealed that the number of female solo bookings has risen by 45% in the last three years.