Celebrating Women in Travel
Every journey we take is shaped by the people we meet along the way. Across the globe, women play a massive role in their communities—preserving traditions, driving sustainability, and offering genuine, warm-hearted experiences. This International Women’s Day, we want to big-up the women who make responsible tourism so special, and celebrate their incredible contributions to the places we visit.
The Women Behind Unforgettable Experiences
So many of our best travel memories wouldn’t be nearly as meaningful without the women who make them happen. From matriarchs managing homestays and treating guests like family, to artisans breathing life into age-old crafts, these women truly are the heartbeat of their communities. Here’s a look at how they enrich our travels:
Cooking with Heart – All over the world, women lead cooking classes that are about more than just food. They’re sharing recipes passed down through generations. Imagine learning the secrets of traditional breadmaking or whipping up tamales with a local chef. For example, in Sigiriya, Sri Lanka, a wonderful woman named Lila hosts visitors after her husband’s passing. She not only serves lunch but also takes guests through her village, offering a genuine peek into rural Sri Lankan life.
Master Craftswomen – In remote corners of the world, skilled women weavers turn wool into stunning textiles with techniques honed over centuries. Responsible tourism not only helps them sustain their livelihoods but also lets travellers support their art directly and hear the stories woven into each piece.
Preserving Indigenous Traditions – In many indigenous communities, women are the guardians of ancestral knowledge. They show visitors how to cultivate cacao, use medicinal plants, or maintain traditional crafts. At the San Antonio Women’s Cooperative, you can spend the day with a Mayan Matriarch; learning from women who showcase Maya traditions through pottery and cooking, strengthening their community and preserving their heritage.
Guiding the Way – From Patagonia to the ancient cities of Europe, female tour guides are shattering stereotypes and inspiring future generations. Whether leading treks, sharing rich histories, or guiding safaris, these women are experts in their fields and role models for young girls everywhere.
Women as Leaders in Responsible Tourism
Beyond these individual stories, women are driving forces in responsible tourism. By supporting ventures run by women, like a family-owned guesthouse or a social enterprise employing female artisans, we help promote economic independence and community stability.
Many women-led initiatives focus on preserving the unique natural and cultural heritage of their locales. From planting trees to protecting oceans, they ensure tourism remains a force for good.
Travelling with Purpose
This International Women’s Day, we’re really proud to honour the women who make our travels more enriching, profound, and impactful. By choosing experiences that uplift and empower women, we’re not just having incredible adventures; we’re also helping build a world where tourism supports and strengthens communities.
Ready to travel with purpose? Have a browse through our destinations or drop us a message – we’d love to help you plan an adventure that feels good and does good.