8 Reasons Why Women Travelling Together Stirs the Soul
Twelve of us have just returned from Milan, Florence and Venice ….. and everywhere in-between! We have experienced so many emotions, surprises, ups & downs but most of all friendships that this wonderful opportunity has offered.
1. WE SHARE EXPERIENCES AND LIFE STORIES.
Our Italian Affair has been in the making for over a year and as the months passed, we got to know eachother before the trip. It became a natural space as we were all looking forward to the same adventure. There was an ‘understanding’ of camaraderie and an excitement to travel together.
As we all sat with different ladies, the relationships of trust, admiration, inspiration and connectiveness began quickly. It was lovely - a relaxed opportunity to open up and share. And my goodness, some of us ladies are amazing with what our life’s journey has put us through!
2. IT CREATES A SENSE OF SISTERHOOD.
When we met at the airport, everyone naturally started to have each others back, ensuring we were included, part of the pack. It was really lovely. Then personalities began to shine; the researcher, the accountant, the hugger, the easy to please, the fun ones and of course, those a little anxious.
3. WOMEN TRAVELING TOGETHER DON’T HAVE TO PLAY THEIR “ROLES” AND CAN ENJOY TOTAL FREEDOM FROM TYPICAL RESPONSIBILITIES.
Each of us have had our own reasons for joining this adventure; getting out of a rut of same same, a need to test our resolve, to release ourselves from the responsibility of being a mother, a wife, a carer, a company stronghold. When you let go and the time is yours to be ‘you’, one enjoys the laughs, the possibilities and of course, we all had to take ‘those moments’ of appreciation as we went from one awesome experience to another. Italy is beautiful and there were many ‘ah ha’ moments of pure joy.
4. WE PROVIDE EACH OTHER HEARTFELT SUPPORT, FEEDBACK, AND ENCOURAGEMENT.
One of us tested positive to Covid in Milan and had to remain for a few days. She was amazing as immediately took on the role of ‘researcher’ and made the most of her balcony overlooking the street below. We all gave her encouragement, and our Tour Manager was excellent in cancelling then re-booking transport for her to join us. The rest of us connected with her and she was back with us in no time.
One of us had our wallet stolen, someone went into her pack pack and took water, glasses and a wallet. We were quick to contact the bank to stop all transactions, then a visit to the local police to report the incident followed by a birthday celebration in a local Tuscan restaurant - yes it was her birthday so this celebration was much needed!!
5. it’s transformative
Throughout our adventure I kept hearing words of absolute appreciation and elation. For many of us either living with a partner, or alone or having a work or family responsibility, we were free to have space, time and always did what we chose to do, for ourselves. Women give so much to family, friends & work so it is easy to be emotional when a chance like this opens up time for ourselves.
I started by sharing that of course our trip was not to be focused on shopping, drinking and eating and of course, everything revolved around it all! Our visits to towns & villages, cathedrals & castles, cooking class or even the most beautiful spa
6. IT CREATES A SENSE OF SECURITY AND A SAFE SPACE TO JUST “BE”.
Be silly. Tell that dirty joke. Be vulnerable or share the deepest secret. When it’s just us women, we get that rare opportunity as adults to let go and play. No one cares if your pedicure is chipped or you count dry shampoo and a second layer of deodorant as “showering.” When you’re on an adventure travel trio with other women, it becomes a safe place to share your authentic self.
We had an evening ‘Getting to Know Us a Little Better’ when we shared stories that made us laugh, gasp and be in awe of someone. As women, we don’t tend to self praise, we do it for each other and throughout this trip there has been a lot of that.
7. WOMEN TRAVELING TOGETHER MEANS AN OPPORTUNITY TO TRAVEL “SOLO”.
At this stage of life we do a lot on our own back home. We either live on our own now if divorced or having had a partner die before us. We babysit which, after the kids go to sleep we are on our own. We visit the library, drive somewhere or attend a meeting, generally we walk in on our own. But, although we are so competent we find travelling solo is daunting. Don’t get me wrong, many have travelled solo for many years, it is somewhat easier now due to technology and the trusting iPhone which is a ‘must have’ with the use of maps, contacts, research etc.
8. WOMEN TRAVELING TOGETHER IS EMPOWERING.
There’s a great article in Forbes that talks about community, confidence, and transformation, but also stresses the importance that travel has on women in our economy. Our Guides (who many have a second income to support themselves) are passionate about sharing the outdoors with other women. There are countless female-owned restaurants, gift shops, tours, hotels around the globe. There are women who create amazing backpacking food, outdoor-related artwork and a variety of other products and depend on these businesses for their livelihood. Our Tour Manager, Aileen Collins (connect through out website) was amazing. She created the most awesome experience focused on us, each experience had been researched and during the trip she was so attentive. To have someone who is in the industry and understands our needs in our Sixties+, was precious.
