I’m a romantic. And I believe there is someone for everyone … if that’s what you want.

Alan Whitt

However, it disturbs me when women feel they need a man to validate themselves. It bothers me when folks question a man’s sexuality because he doesn’t have a woman.

Cruise lines and tour operators apparently feel the same way. They usually impose a “singles penalty tax” on anyone vacationing alone.

Anytime you see prices based on double occupancy that means you’re paying twice as much if you travel by yourself, other than taxes and fees.

I understand a cruise line’s dilemma: If everyone wanted a single cabin they would go out of business. But singles aren’t getting twice as much for the price they pay so is it fair that they pay double

People who want to be alone aren’t necessarily lonely, and may prefer to get away to reconnect with themselves, meet new people or any number of reasons. Regardless, it’s no one’s business that they travel in solitude.

In today’s travel world there are options for the single traveler.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship – Norwegian Epic – has cabins specifically designed for the single traveler – complete with a private lounge for those folks.

Luxury line Regent Seven Seas has 16 select sailings where lone travelers pay 50 percent more than the per-person rate.

But a better alternative might be voyage with the largest singles cruise operator in the world, and booked through Allure Quest Travel Experience. These cruises are for folks over 21, with some voyages being age specific. You can travel alone or request a roommate.

There are scheduled cruises on Carnival, Norwegian and Royal Caribbean cruise lines, ranging anywhere from four to eight days, to a variety of destinations with anywhere from 100 to 400 singles in the group.