“ If you have knowledge , let others light their candles in it .” — Margaret Fuller , 19th-century journalist and women ’ s rights advocate
Not that long ago , it was unheard of for a woman to venture out on her own and travel for her own enjoyment . Today , here at Overseas Adventure Travel , more than 50 % of our travelers are solo women , and they ’ re over 60 years of age . As a Baby Boomer , it makes me proud to think we ’ re still blazing trails . But the truth is , there ’ s a very wide range of women who decide , at one point or another , to travel as solos — and we don ’ t all think of ourselves as firebrands ( though we ’ re all spirited in different ways ).
Some of us are single by choice , some are widowed . We ’ re introverts and extroverts . Career women and homemakers . Many of us are married , but we occasionally travel without our spouses . Sometimes we go totally alone , other times we explore with a friend , share with a roommate , or join a group . We just love to travel and discover new things , and we don ’ t think our gender or status or life choices should stop us from doing what we love .
Diversity aside , one trait we share is a love of fun . I had plenty of that as I researched this book , poring over my old travel journals , and revisiting letters and emails from the many women travelers whose tried-and-true wisdom forms the core of this book . I also came upon some old photos that made me laugh out loud , so I ’ m sharing a few inside to add a touch of whimsy ( and remind us all how far we ’ ve come !) One thing you can say about us seasoned women travelers : when we discover something fun or useful , our natural impulse is to pass it on for others to enjoy .
So now , let ’ s pass the torch with this collection of travel savvy that our solo sisters have gathered over the course of many trips around the world — and the sun . Ladies , at a time when the world needs more connection , understanding , and good will , I thank you for lighting the way .
Peace and love ,
Harriet Lewis Chair Overseas Adventure Travel
Tanzania
Front cover : Uluru , Australia