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While tour companies and holiday packages have historically emphasized the fun and social aspects of their trips, some travellers are much more happy quietly contemplating their surroundings in their own company. A new tour company called Sacred Introvert now aims to cater to those holiday seekers — offering a slow paced, relaxing coach trip for those adverse to small talk and loud tour guides.

The first Sacred Introvert Retreat Tour will take place this coming May, led by founder Lisa Avebury. Over ten days, participants will visit Glastonbury and other sites in south west England. Travellers will each have their own room and every other day will be a ‘local’ day, when visitors can rest and recharge in the peaceful surroundings of Glastonbury Abbey Retreat. The tour includes visits to mystical, historical sights such as the stone circle and the Chalice Well — where the Holy Grail is supposedly hidden. There are relaxed day trips to medieval churches and roman baths, optional yoga sessions and evening activities such as torchlit walks and bonfires.

Lisa Avebury, a self-proclaimed introvert, founded the retreat company to give quieter individuals a group travel option which catered to their needs, where silences are comfortable and socializing is optional, not mandatory. The trips costs USD 3,795 excluding flights and Avebury hopes it will be the first of many.

We have already seen apps — such as Party with a Local and Zoolaflix — offering to connect travellers with local party people. Are there other “people types” that are not yet catered for in the tourism trade?