The Rise of Girlfriend Getaways: Why Women Over 50 Are Traveling Together
“Girlfriend Getaways: The Rise of Women-Only Travel Trends”
Barbara Klein, a 66-year-old retiree from Bethesda, Md., has found the perfect way to recharge and rejuvenate herself every June for the past four years. She embarks on a weeklong spa trip to Rancho La Puerta in Tecate, Mexico, with a group of women mostly in their fifties to mid-sixties. This trend of women over 50 vacationing with female friends is on the rise, with travel companies reporting a significant increase in bookings for women-only trips.
According to Marett Taylor, vice president of sales at travel company Abercrombie & Kent, there has been a 33% increase in bookings for groups of women in the past five years. Women are seeking out these trips for various reasons, including shared interests, catching up with friends, and the opportunity to put themselves first after years of prioritizing family and work responsibilities.
The trend is not limited to luxury spa trips, as some women are opting for adventure-filled getaways. Cynthia Dunbar, general manager of REI Adventures, notes a 60% growth in women travelers since 2010, with a significant portion falling in the 50 to 59 age range. These trips cater to special interests such as photography, cooking, and outdoor activities like mountaineering and backpacking.
Tour companies are expanding their offerings to include more exotic destinations and adventure expeditions for women-only groups. From India to Morocco, Chile to Easter Island, and African countries like Namibia, women are exploring new horizons and pushing their physical limits. Road Scholar, a nonprofit educational tour company, is also seeing a rise in female travelers, with 60% of their clients being women traveling with other women.
Whether it’s trekking in Machu Picchu, exploring European cities, or indulging in wellness retreats, women are embracing the opportunity to travel with their girlfriends and create lasting memories. These trips offer a chance to try new activities, pursue shared interests, and enjoy quality time away from the demands of everyday life.
As the trend of girlfriend getaways continues to grow, experts advise setting ground rules and testing the waters before embarking on a long vacation. Starting small with a weekend getaway or domestic trip can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. With the rise of women-only travel trends, the world is truly becoming a playground for adventurous and empowered women over 50.