Not all solo holidays are created equal, and the brochure rarely tells you the things that actually decide whether a week is warm or lonely. Here is the checklist worth running through before you book anything — with honest answers for how a hosted week at Casa Agara stacks up.

1. Is there a single supplement — really?

The most important question, and the one most often fudged. On the scheduled weeks run with Spice Escapes there is no forced single supplement: a twin-share service matches you with a same-sex room-mate at no charge, and if they can't, they cover the supplement themselves. Want your own room? That is an optional, clearly-priced extra. Ask any operator to be this specific.

2. How big is the group?

There is a world of difference between a table of a few and a coach of forty. Small means you actually get to know people. Casa Agara is one house, one table.

3. How sociable is it — and can I opt out?

The best answer is "company when you want it, quiet when you don't". Days independent, evenings shared, nothing forced.

4. What's actually included?

Ask what you'll pay for once you arrive. Here it's half board — breakfast and a home-cooked dinner daily — plus the house wine, beer and spirits, poured all day. The walking from the door costs nothing.

5. Who's hosting?

A real host who knows the place changes everything. Rob and María host in person and make the introductions.

6. Is it financially protected?

For the flight-inclusive Spice Escapes packages, yes — they are ATOL-protected (licence 9046). Always check for this.

The short version

Small group, genuinely sociable, no forced supplement, generous inclusions, a real host, and ATOL cover. Ask those six things of anywhere you're considering — and see how they answer.

Got a question we haven't covered? Ask us straight — we'll tell you plainly.