Women Travel Differently
Imagine a dusty Turkish tea-house, the clatter of backgammon dice, and the easy camaraderie of seasoned gentlemen. A scene straight from a travel writer’s latest book. A scene that, I confess, sparked a twinge of envy. While he could casually join the game, a woman’s approach would be, well, offensive or even forbidden. Or, picture another gentleman strolling the neon-lit streets of Nashville at midnight, a picture of untroubled ease, reflecting the enviable freedom of the male traveler. It’s important not to fall into stereotypes, but I can say from experience: women travel differently.
Travel, after all, is deeply personal, shaped by individual desires and societal expectations. While we must resist the urge to paint with broad strokes, it’s undeniable that women often navigate their lives with a heightened sense of awareness. Call it a sixth sense, or simply a well-honed survival instinct, honed by the unfortunate reality that women are, more often than not, the targets of certain types of crime. Consider the 2023 Solo Female Travel Survey, where 66% of respondents admitted to safety concerns. If we were to poll beyond the solo travel community, I suspect that number would be higher. My own travel rituals involve a touch of theatrical misdirection: delayed social media updates, a vague itinerary, and careful vigilance regarding my evening drinks. Italy, a land of food and romance, also gifted me with a memorable bus ride, a lesson in standing up for myself, and a hasty expulsion of the creepy perpetrator.
The good news for women (and LGBTQ+) travelers is that the digital age has bestowed upon us a treasure trove of tools that can keep us safe. We can enhance our safety with meticulous pre-trip research as well as sticking to well-lit streets and vetted accommodations. Using online reviews should be taken into account; word of mouth from someone who has recently experienced your destination and using an experienced travel advisor, who can curate your itinerary with an eye for both adventure and safety, can be invaluable as well. A travel advisor can also be a valuable asset should you run into a crisis while traveling (ahem… if your passport and credit cards are stolen).
Beyond safety, women often approach travel with different desires. We crave experiences: local markets, cultural exchange, and diverse landscapes. While men might seek bungee jumping or mountain treks, we often find our bliss in moments of connection. Studies suggest we prioritize cultural immersion. We are planners, orchestrating details. Accommodation, transportation, packing – all are considered, ensuring a seamless journey.
Women have power in the travel industry. We are decision-makers, planning vacations and getaways. Studies reveal women influence travel choices. The rise of solo female travel demonstrates our independence. We seek growth, immersion, and the joy of exploration. Women-only travel experiences – tours, retreats, cruises – speak to our desire for camaraderie, empowerment, and shared adventures. These experiences offer a safe space for self-discovery and connection.
Let us remember individuality. Generalizations are starting points. Men explore markets, and women seek sports. The travel landscape evolves, and gender roles change. Yet, women are a formidable force in the travel industry, as decision-makers and explorers.
And so, we return to the tea-house, the neon-lit streets, and the countless moments where a woman’s journey diverges. It’s not about being less adventurous or less capable. It’s about navigating a world where the rules, both spoken and unspoken, are often different. It’s about recognizing the necessity of calculated caution while still embracing the joy of discovery. It’s about seeking connection and experience in ways that resonate with our unique perspectives and priorities. It’s about wielding our power as consumers and explorers to shape a travel landscape that respects and celebrates our diverse needs. We plan, we research, we connect, we empower, and we adapt. We do it all with a heightened awareness that comes from both experience and intuition. And as we pack our bags, plan our routes, and step into the unknown, one truth remains undeniable: women travel differently.
Randi is the owner of R.Wing Travel and a travel advisor herself. If you would like to chat about your next travel ideas, feel free to schedule a complimentary vacation consultation!
