travel like a girl

The Best Things to Do in Cascais (A Beach Day Trip from Lisbon)

One of the highlights of my one-month trip across Portugal was the day I spent in Cascais. This charming beach town is an easy train ride away from Lisbon, making it perfect for a day trip or overnight visit. Although the town is small, there are lots of fun things to do in Cascais, from swimming at some of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches to visiting the eclectic collection of museums housed in stunning Art Nouveau villas.

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Women's Group Getaways For The Adventurous Female Traveller

Welcome to travel girls getaways, by we are travel girls.

Brought to you by the founders of We Are Travel Girls , Travel Girls Getaways brings women together from all over the globe to explore incredible destinations. We offer educational retreats, active trips and tours hosted by our founder Vanessa Rivers for women looking to travel with other like minded female travellers. Our girls getaways take you on an adventure to a new destination, give you an opportunity to learn new skills, immerse yourself in local culture and most importantly make lifelong friends!

“My favorite part of the Bali Retreat was the AMAZINGLY DEEP friendships I made in such a short amount of time!”

Join An Upcoming Getaway

Malawi Safari & Charity

Join us in Malawi to take part in inspiring community mentoring work, visit beautiful rolling tea estates, 2 nights on safari and ending on the idyllic Mumbo Island.

Morocco Tour

Join us on a tour of Morocco, including staying in luxurious riads, exploring the best of Marrakech, and a once in a lifetime luxury glamping experience in the Sahara Desert!

Other Destinations

Have interest in other destinations or long weekend trips? We are constantly looking to add new getaway locations and trip types, so stay up to date on the latest trips or suggest a new one!

Learning in a Beautiful Place with Amazing Women!

Hands down my favorite part of the retreat was meeting 12 other AMAZING women! I loved that from day 1, it felt like we had all known each other for years already. It was super helpful to be able to learn from WATG as well as the other women in the workshops. Everyone is doing something different, so it was really interesting to learn about how others are building their brands and what is working for them!

Shireen G. Bali Blogging Retreats

I Loved Every Single Moment Of This Trip!

I loved every single moment of this trip, all the girls immediately bonded and we spent wonderful days together exploring an exotic country and eating delicious food! This is a fantastic platform to meet new ladies with similar interests from all over the world. It is also a great way to explore places in a group setting that you wouldn't necessarily try on your own!

Deidre Reinhart - Morocco Trip 2019

This Trip Was A Once In A Lifetime Experience!

This trip was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, run perfectly by Travel Girls Getaway! It’s always scary going to a new country and continent, let alone going with a group of girls you haven’t met. This group and this trip was incredible from start to finish. Becky and Vanessa took the time to get to know each traveler and we felt like a group of close friends, not strangers who booked the same trip. The itinerary was perfect for my first time in Africa; we got to experience all aspects of Malawi. The community impact project was a truly meaningful and inspiration aspect of the trip, and I loved taking a break from touring to immerse ourselves in the culture and community.

Serena W, Malawi Safari & Charity Trip

It Completely Surpassed My Expectations

The Morocco tour was my second trip with Travel Girls Getaways and it completely surpassed my expectations! I had an amazing first experience with Travel Girls Getaways and I was worried that nothing would be able to top it, but this trip was just as great! I love getting to meet a new group of women on each trip and creating friendships and memories that last!

Ashley Chase - Morocco 2019

Everything Was Planned To Perfection!

This trip to Malawi was everything I imagined and so much more! Everything was planned to perfection! My favorite part of traveling is the chance to connect with new people and this trip provided that in a much grander way than I’ve ever experienced. From connecting with the amazing women on the trip to connecting with those in the communities of Malawi this is a trip I will never forget!!

Whitney N, Malawi Safari & Charity Trip

Becky & Anna Were Amazing Hosts & Made The Trip So Memorable

My trip to Morocco with WATG was one of the best trips I have ever taken and I travel A LOT. I have made lifelong friends from around the world and these amazing women have inspired me. Becky and Anna were amazing hosts and made the trip so memorable! I can't wait for my next trip with them to Malawi and to sign up for so many more!

Rachael Paskvan - Morocco 2019

The Trip Surpassed My Expectations!

The trip surpassed my expectations, opened my eyes to new experiences I never would've found or done on my own - and deepened my respect for the Moroccan handiwork, artisanry and culture. I've fallen in love with this country even more than I expected to, and I highly recommend Travel Girls Getaways to anyone looking to meet wonderful women or explore new places with an intentional itinerary.

Megan O'Brien - Morocco Trip 2018

Love The Experiences & Special Surprises Along The Way

I had an absolutely wonderful experience on my very first Travel girls Getaway to Morocco. The experiences and special surprises along the way were all made that much more memorable by the great group of ladies from all over the world. This trip gave me the chance to experience a country and culture that I otherwise might not have felt comfortable to travel to alone. I have high hopes that I will get to join another Travel Girls Getaway in the future!

Jackie Tamburo - Morocco 2019

Who Are We?

We Are Travel Girls is a global travel community created to inspire, connect, educate and empower female travellers around the world. Founded in 2016, we have gone on to launch Travel Girls Getaways to bring their community together on epic trips around the globe.

Travel Girls Getaways

Travel Girls Getaways are trips for the adventurous female traveller looking to connect and travel with like minded women. We offer a variety of trip styles, so whether you are looking for an educational retreat, an active escape, a photography tour, a cultural experience or a charitable expedition, we have a trip for you!

Who Joins Our Trips

The women who join our trips are from all over the world, from different backgrounds and with a variety of goals and reasons for wanting to come on a Travel Girls Getaway. The one constant we have found is their desire to create lasting friendships and connections with a group of other travel loving women!

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Browse our destinations, trip styles and book the trip of a lifetime, ready to join us on the adventure of a lifetime.

Travel By Carla Vianna

Travel and Adventure Inspiration

35+ Ideas For The Perfect Girls Trip In the U.S. & Beyond

May 25, 2021 · In: Travel Guides

Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway or an adventure abroad, here are 35+ exciting destinations for your next girls trip .

Disclaimer: There may be affiliate links sprinkled within this post, meaning that if you make a hotel booking, I’ll get a small commission, at no cost to you! 🙂

What makes a destination perfect for girls trips ? Every group of friends is different, but we can outline a few common denominators that every girls-only getaway should have. 

Good food. Great wine. Decent nightlife. A nice selection of hotels or Airbnbs. Oh, and brunch. We can’t forget brunch. Sunshine would be nice, too. Perhaps a bit of adventure?

Whether you’re looking for a laidback tropical vacation, an outdoorsy adventure or an international escape with your best girlfriends, here are 37 places to book your next girls trip.

Table of Contents

Girls Trips Ideas in the U.S.

Here are 15 girls trip destinations perfect for a weekend away from home. Let the trip planning begin!

• Austin, Texas
• Charleston, South Carolina
• Key West, Florida
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Miami, Florida
• Nashville, Tennessee
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• New York, New York
• Palm Beach, Florida
• Palm Springs, California
• Portland, Maine
• Santa Barbara, California
• San Diego, California
• San Juan, Puerto Rico

1. Austin, Texas 

Best for: Live music lovers & hipsters Where to stay:  Hotel San Jose

Austin — also known as the live music capital of the world — is a dynamic city known for its music , food , and alternative lifestyle . The lively city has a great nightlife scene as well as outdoor adventures , making it ideal for a balanced girls weekend getaway. You can swim in Barton Springs by day and hit one of the 80+ bars on Sixth Street by night. Austin is also a hub for all kinds of festivals , and if you time your trip right, you could catch the Austin City Limits music fest with your concert-loving friends.

2. Big Sur, California

Best for:  road trippers Where to stay: The Colonial Terrace

Take a road trip through Big Sur to witness the California coast at its finest. Wander through the storybook town of Carmel , hike coastal bluff trails , and take in all the scenic viewpoints . Take a photo at the famous Bixby Creek Bridge , and discover a hidden calla lily valley on the side of the road. When you’re ready for a break from all the driving, kick it back at a charming Carmel inn and catch a beautiful California sunset on the beach .

| Read More: Must-See Stops When Driving Big Sur

3. Charleston, South Carolina

Best for:  Southern charm Where to stay:  The Spectator

Charleston is a picturesque city marked by its Southern charm . Think cobblestone streets and colorful architecture with a side of Southern hospitality . For a Charleston girls trip, consider booking yourselves a day at the Woodhouse Day Spa for ultimate relaxation. Get lost wandering the streets and soaking up the town’s unique character. Spend an afternoon browsing the boutiques on King Street , and finish off your shopping spree at the historic City Market . Take photos on Rainbow Row , a stretch of colorful homes perfect for the ‘gram . Finally, exercise your inner foodie and eat your way through the many quality restaurants in town.

4. Key West, Florida

Best for: easy-gping tropical getaway Where to stay:  Nyah

Key West lies at the tip of the Florida Keys , a long stretch of islands surrounded by Caribbean blue water . A girls trip to Key West can be a wild party or a relaxing tropical getaway — or a little bit of both! Head over to Duval Street for 24-hour Mardi Gras vibes, or kick it back with a beautiful sunset cruise . While there are prettier beaches in other parts of the Keys, you could enjoy the best of Key West beaches from underwater on a snorkel tour . Make sure to eat all the seafood (conch fritters are a must!) and key lime pie , preferably with a pina colada in hand at all times.

5. Las Vegas, Nevada

Best for:  partying it up Where to stay:  Encore at Wynn

We couldn’t not include the party capital of the country on this list of girls trip ideas! Las Vegas is the ultimate destination for a wild bachelorette party or college roommate reunion . Indulge in a room with a view right on The Strip , where you’ll find luxury hotels that stretch on for blocks on end. Test your luck in the casino , see a famous night show , dine in posh restaurants and dance your heart out at a DJ-fueled pool party . Get out of town with a quick trip to Red Rock Canyon or the quirky Seven Magic Mountains .

6. Miami, Florida 

Best for: hot girl summer Where to stay: EAST Hotel in Brickell or The Confidante in South Beach 

Miami has all the necessary components for a perfect girls trip: beautiful beaches , chic hotels , cool rooftop bars , and perfect weather year-round. You can either stay on mainland Miami or closer to the beaches in Miami Beach. Regardless of where you stay, there’s a lot to see in both areas. Explore beach clubs like Nikki Beach and snap photos in front of the Art Deco buildings in South Beach . Over on the mainland, you’ll find the Wynwood Arts District with its endless art murals , hip cafes , and fun outdoor bars . Make sure to swing by Calle Ocho for the best Cuban food you’ll ever have and to get a taste of Miami’s unique Latino flare .

7. Nashville, Tennessee

Best for: Dancing, singing and drinking Where to stay: Kimpton Aertson Hotel

If wearing funky cowgirl boots and dancing the night away to honky-tonk sounds like a good time, then consider Nashville for your next girls trip. I’ll admit it: The weekend I spent in Nashville with my best girlfriends from college was kind of a blur — in the best kind of way, ha! Nashville, or Music City , is a hotbed of country music and Southern comfort food . It’s home to the Grand Ole Opry , which hosted country music legends like Johnny Cash and Reba McIntire. You’ll find live music every day of the week at the honky-tonks and dive bars at The District , specifically Honky Tonk Row , where you must visit Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge . Nashville has such a fun energy that you’ll want to sing, dance, eat, and drink your days away. 

8. New Orleans, Louisiana

Best for: party animals & foodies Where to stay:  Ace Hotel

Home to the world-famous Mardi Gras festival, New Orleans is definitely a fun destination for a girls trip. Join in on the debauchery on Bourbon Street , hands-down one of the wildest parties I’ve ever experienced. If you’re not here for the party, at least walk through the street once to see what I mean! Give in to the city’s rich history of voodoo and the supernatural and have your fortune told . Step back in time in the French Quarter . Discover New Orleans’ rich cuisine through iconic dishes like po-boys, red beans, gumbo and jambalaya. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on the beignets at longstanding institution Café du Monde .

9. New York, New York

Best for: big city lovers Where to stay:  Arlo NoMad

New York is the perfect city for any kind of trip — especially a girls weekend getaway. Skip the tourist traps known as Times Square and the Empire State Building and head straight to brunch in the West Village . Wander the charming streets and embody Carrie from Sex and the City (her brownstone is probably nearby). Cafe-hop and shop in SoHo before grabbing fresh dumplings in Chinatown . Cross the Brooklyn Bridge right before sunset and watch the day end at Brooklyn Bridge Park (preferably with a bottle of wine). Have a picnic in Central Park , where you’ll find all the locals on a sunny Sunday afternoon.

| Read More: A Jam-Packed Three-Day NYC Itinerary

10. Palm Beach, Florida

Best for:  tropical luxury Where to stay: The Colony

Think 47 miles of Caribean blue coastline : that’s the Palm Beaches. Find yourselves a tropical-chic hotel near the beach and soak in all the sunshine you can get. Don your best bikinis and resort wear, shop at local boutiques on Worth Avenue and enjoy brunch in sunny outdoor cafes . This is a perfect destination for the colder months since winter is virtually nonexistent here.

11. Palm Springs, California

Best for:  celeb spotting Where to stay: The Saguaro

This slice of California desert has become one of the hottest girls trip destinations in recent years. The weather is ideal for a visit year-round, so make sure to book yourselves a hotel with a pool . Several of the hotel pools are open to the public, by the way, so it’s easy to explore beyond your own. Shop on El Paseo Drive , stumble upon a pool party , ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and indulge in pretty cocktails at happy hour . Try to spot a celeb while you’re there — odds are you’ll find someone famous on a much-needed getaway from LA.

12. Portland, Maine

Best for:  the lobster rolls Where to stay: The Press Hotel

Now here’s a perfect summer girls trip. Portland is one of the most charming cities on the East Coast. The sea views are just as spectacular as the seafood , and downtown Portland has its fair share of bars and restaurants for a fun night out. Eat as many lobster rolls as you can, visit the iconic Portland Head Lighthouse , and explore nearby islands in Casco Bay . EverCaribbean experienced New England charm ? This is the best place to see it.

| Read More: A Perfect Weekend in Portland, Maine

13. Santa Barbara, California

Best for:  wining, dining & shopping Where to stay: Hotel Milo Santa Barbara

Welcome to The American Riviera, where you can start your day with a wine tasting tour and end it with a sunset cruise on the Pacific. Santa Barbara has more than 30 wineries on its Urban Wine Trail , where you can also shop, dine and hit the spa. Wander in and out of shops on State Street , and stop for a million and one photos at the bougainvillea-filled paseos like La Arcada . Swing by the Funk Zone in the evening for dinner, gallery hopping and more wine tasting.

14. San Diego, California

Best for: beach bumming Where to stay:  Pacific Terrace Hotel

A girls trip to San Diego features wine-tasting , seal spotting and beach time . Sound like a plan? I think so, too. Spend a day out on the water in Mission Bay , where you can rent a Duffy Boat, paddleboards or kayaks. Visit the famous La Jolla Coves to meet the local seals and sea lions , and hit one of the city’s many craft breweries . If you prefer wine, start at Bernardo Winery and hop to any of the other nearby wineries. Looking for a party? Hit up a boozy brunch spot in town.

15. San Juan, Puerto Rico

Best for:  fun island vibes Where to stay: Caribe Hilton

The best thing about a girls trip to San Juan is that you feel like you get to leave the country without actually leaving the country. San Juan feels like a Caribbean getaway , yet you reap all the benefits of domestic travel: English is widely spoken, the currency is the same, and your cellphone will work. Wander through the incredibly charming and colorful streets of Old San Juan before catching a sunset on one of the many beautiful beaches nearby. If you’re up for the adventure, rent a car and leave the main tourist strip to find more of Puerto Rico’s natural wonders. Explore hidden waterfalls and hike in El Yunque , the only tropical rainforest in the U.S.

| Read More: Stay in the Best Oceanfront Hotel in San Juan

Adventure-Fueled Girls Trip Destinations

Feeling adventurous? Looking to get your hike on? Here are five scenic U.S. destinations for an adventurous girls getaway with your best friends.

• Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
• Joshua Tree National Park, California
• Maui, Hawaii
• Sedona, Arizona
• Zion National Park, Utah

1. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Best for:  getting outdoors Where to stay:  The Grand Hotel

Visit one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the U.S. and come away with tons of unforgettable experiences. Walk the glass Skywalk , go hiking , splurge on a helicopter tour , and photograph your heart out. Get real adventurous and make it a camping trip, complete with epic sunrises and sunsets over the Grand Canyon.

2. Joshua Tree, California

Best for:  hiking with desert-chic vibes Where to stay:  The Farmhouse Retreat

Here’s another wonderful California destination for a girls trip. Explore Joshua Tree National Park’s Dr. Seuss-like trees and otherwordly landscape while kicking it back in a cute Airbnb that embraces the desert aesthetic. Hike one of the many picturesque trails in the park, go antique shopping , try rock climbing for the first time. When you’re tired of hiking, hang out at quirky cafes and diners like Crossroads and Natural Sisters.

3. Maui, Hawaii

Best for:  a bucket list vacation Where to stay:  Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Hawaii is THE destination for adventure-seekers and tropical getaway travelers alike. Just driving the Road to Hana will bring enough thrill to last a lifetime. If you want to get up close and personal with Hawaii’s volcanic landscape, visit Haleakala National Park . Explore the jet-black sands at Waianapanapa State Park , or swim through the turquoise waters of Makena Beach State Park . Take a boat tour , snorkel in glistening waters and attend a traditional luau to get a feel for the Hawaiian culture.

4. Sedona, Arizona

Best for:  Hiking followed by a day at the spa Where to stay:  Southwest Inn

Sedona is a beautiful destination for a girls trip, especially if you love hiking . Hike Broken Arrow , Cathedral Rock , and the Instagram-famous Devil’s Bridge for incredible views of Arizona’s uniquely red rocks and mountains. Drive down the Red Rock Scenic Byway and stop at the energy “vortexes” along the way. Wind down at a spa after all that hiking, or recuperate with some wine tasting on the Verde Valley Wine Trail .

5. Zion National Park, Utah

Best for:  Epic adventure hikes Where to stay:  Zion Lodge in Zion or Driftwood Lodge in Springdale

Head to Zion National Park to cross off bucket list hikes like The Narrows , a river trek in knee-to-waist-deep water. Tackle the crazy steep Angel’s Landing while you’re at it for incredible views over Zion Canyon . Looking for an easier hike with views just as rewarding? Check out the Canyon Overlook Trail for one of the most photographed stretches of the park.

Best Girls Trips Abroad

Sometimes a weekend getaway just isn’t enough. If you and your girlfriends are craving a bigger adventure, here are 17 bucket list destinations for an unforgettable girls trip abroad.

• Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Bali, Indonesia
• Banff, Canada
• Barcelona, Spain
• Cartagena, Colombia
• Chiang Mai, Thailand
• Hanoi, Vietnam
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Mexico City, Mexico
• Montreal, Canada
• Mykonos, Greece
• Nassau, Bahamas
• Paris, France
• Reykjavik, Iceland
• Rome, Italy
• Tulum, Mexico

1. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Best for:  a hip Euro getaway Where to stay:  The Hoxton

Cycle your way through Amsterdam’s charming streets , and when your legs are tired from all the biking, hop on a boat to explore its winding urban canals. Take in Amsterdam’s tall, crooked homes and intricate canal system . Snap a photo at the “I am Amsterdam” sign and join a local food tour to find out where to get the best stroopwafels .

2. Bali, Indonesia

Best for:  free spirits Where to stay:  Angsoka Bungalow

Ah, Bali. My favorite place in the world. This tropical Indonesian island is home to lush jungles , powerful waterfalls , cascading rice terraces , and, of course, beaches . Visit the hip beach clubs in Seminyak, cafe-hop in Canggu and join a yoga class in Ubud. Looking for adventure? Hike a volcano for sunrise, or snorkel with giant manta rays . Stay in a luxury villa with your own private pool for the ultimate girls getaway.

| Read More: The Best 2-Week Bali Itinerary For First-Timers

3. Banff, Canada

Best for:  Post-card mountain peaks & sunrise hikes Where to stay: Fairmont Banff Springs

One of Canada’s most spectacular national parks, Banff promises to be a girls trip you’ll never forget. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking, with towering snowy peaks reflecting off icy blue lagoons . Rent a car and explore the most picturesque lakes in Banff, Lake Louise and Lake Moraine . If you’re looking for an excuse to splurge on a castle-like mountain hotel , this is the place.

4. Barcelona, Spain

Best for:  living life the Spanish way — tapas and siesta included Where to stay:  H10 Cubik

Barcelona is known for its brilliant architecture, lively culture and, of course, tapas. Sightsee by day — including must-visit attractions like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell — and hang at a tapas bar at night. Get lost in the Gothic Quarter , one of the oldest and most beautiful neighborhoods in the city. For dessert, you can’t go wrong with the traditional churros and hot chocolate . Wander through Las Ramblas , catch a flamenco show and eat your way through La Boqueria .

5. Cartagena, Colombia

Best for:  colorful & vibrant Colombian culture Where to stay:  Amarla Boutique Hotel

Arguably the most colorful city in South America , Cartagena is a vibrant city popular with bachelor and bachelorette parties alike. Just three hours from Miami by plane, Cartagena is a mixture of Colombian and Caribbean cultures : Think fresh seafood paired with homey Colombian sides, beautiful beaches , and lively party culture . At the top of the list? Take a boat trip to a nearby island and explore the pastel-colored Old Town .

| Read More: Best Places To Visit In South America

6. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Best for:  laidback, rural Thai adventure Where to stay: Buri Gallery House

Thailand’s laidback, temple-filled gem will leave you and your girlfriends with a newfound appreciation for the simpler things in life. Chiang Mai is one of the best places to visit in Thailand . Explore the Old City and the many temples within it, shop at the Night Bazaar , and take a traditional Northern Thai cooking class . Check out the views from the top of Doi Suthep and appreciate the peaceful, lush mountainous landscape that surrounds the city. Spend the day at an elephant sanctuary to learn and help fund their rehabilitation after years of mistreatment.

| Read More: Three-Day Chiang Mai Itinerary

7. San Jose, Costa Rica

Best for:  jungle adventures Where to stay:  The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal

Live the pura vida in Costa Rica for a trip immersed in nature and adventure. You’ll fly into San Jose but the real adventure lies outside the city. Head over to La Fortuna to explore the Arenal Volcano and visit La Fortuna waterfall . Stay in a jungle resort with incredible views, or learn how to surf on the Pacific Coast of the country. Take a dip in the natural hot springs , walk through a cloud forest and try to spot sleepy sloths in the wild .

8. Hanoi, Vietnam

Best for:  backpacking vibes Where to stay:  Zephyr Suites Boutique Hotel

The Northern Vietnam city of Hanoi is a common stop on the Southeast Asia backpacker’s route — but it’s also an exciting destination for a girls trip. Hanoi is one of my favorite places in Southeast Asia: The locals are friendly, the streets are lively, and the food is amazing (try the egg coffee , pho , and bun cha specifically). If you want to get out of your comfort zone and experience the excitement of an Asian metropolis, Hanoi is it. Drink and eat your way through the Night Market , walk among locals at Hoan Kiem Lake , and take a boat trip in nearby Ha Long Bay , one of the most beautiful natural wonders of Vietnam.

| Read More: A Few Things You Simply Cannot Miss in Hanoi

9. Lisbon, Portugal

Best for:  aimless city wandering Where to stay:  Memmo Alfama

The coastal city of Lisbon is a joy to explore with your best girlfriends. Get your walking shoes ready and wander the hilly city from sunup to sundown. Indulge in delicious seafood and refreshing green wine when your feet need a break. Make sure to try the city’s signature dessert, an egg pastry known as pastéis de Belém . Take a day trip to Cascais for the beautiful beaches or Sintra for the colorful Palácio da Pena .

| Read More: Top Things To Do In Lisbon

10. Mexico City, Mexico

Best for: Latin American culture & great food Where to stay:  Condesa DF

Mexico’s buzzy capital city is one of the most exciting girls trip destinations in Latin America. First off, it’s a foodie haven . You’ll find everything from top-quality street tacos to luxury dining — and both are worth experiencing. Feel the energy in Zocalo , the largest plaza in Latin America, visit Frida Kahlo’s family home , and float through the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco . Up for an adventure? Take a day trip out of the city to visit the historic Pyramids of the Sun and Moon .

11. Montreal, Canada

Best for:  a European-style getaway Where to stay: Hotel Monville

Montreal is the closest thing to a European getaway without hopping over the pond. The charming Canadian city and its French influence will instantly transport you to Paris, especially if you hang around the Old Town . Montreal is home to some of the best restaurants I’ve ever been to and the prettiest architecture on this side of the world. Make sure to catch a sunset from Mount Royal, which is especially beautiful in the fall.

| Read More: The Ultimate Montreal Travel Guide

12. Mykonos, Greece

Best for:  Instagram BFFs & the photo-obsessed Where to stay: Villa Kampani

The lively Greek island of Mykonos is a dream destination for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking to party it up with your girls or kick back in your luxury villa overlooking the sea , Mykonos delivers on both. Wander the chalky white streets and dine on refreshing Greek cuisine on picturesque sidewalks draped in bougainvilleas. And don’t ever miss a sunset .

13. Nassau, Bahamas

Best for:  Caribbean beach getaway Where to stay: The Island House

A tropical paradise awaits in Nassau — only an hour away from Miami by plane. There’s no better thing to do than swim in the island’s Caribbean blue beaches . Explore the massive Atlantis hotel and take a trip to Blue Lagoon Island . But mainly just sit back, relax and enjoy the laidback island vibes .

14. Paris, France

Best for: hopeless romantics Where to stay: Hotel Le Walt Paris

Who says best friends can’t romanticize a trip to Paris? The romantic capital of the world has all the European charm for a perfect girls getaway. Don your best Parisian outfit and wander through the charming cobblestone streets of Montmartre . Spend an afternoon hopping between charming local cafes , and marvel at the undeniable flakiness of each Parisian croissant . Grab a baguette and some wine for a sunset on the Seine . Don’t forget to catch the Eiffel Tower light up at sundown.

15. Reykjavik, Iceland

Best for: adventurous souls Where to stay:  Radisson Blu 1919 Hotel

The most adventurous of girl trips will take place in Iceland, where never-ending summer days are ripe for exploration. Rent a car and prepare for the sensory overload. Marvel at some of the earth’s most beautiful waterfalls , run across black sand beaches , take a dip in geothermal lagoons , chase the Northern Lights , and watch whales in their natural habitat. Dine at one of the many hip restaurants in Reykjavik on you’re way in or out of the city.

| READ MORE: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Iceland in the Summer

16. Rome, Italy

Best for:  pasta & gelato Where to stay:  The Hoxton

Name a better place to indulge in pasta, wine and friendship. I’ll wait. Spend your days wandering through Rome’s centuries-old streets , visiting monuments like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain . Mingle with locals at Trastevere over a cheese board and the best $5 house wine you’ll ever have. Chase all that wine with the finest scoop of gelato from a local dessert shop, and do it all over again the next day.

| READ MORE: Plan The Perfect Two-Week Italy Itinerary

17. Tulum, Mexico

Best for:  yoga & wellness (with a side of jungle party) Where to stay:  Azulik

Escape to a tropical jungle oasis without having to stray too far from home. Find your inner peace at a yoga retreat , dance the night away at a jungle party , jump into turquoise blue cenotes and splurge on a beachfront hotel . Eat your weight in tacos in Tulum’s Centro , and explore the whole town by bike . Hop through beach clubs until you find your favorite, and stick around for unforgettable sunset drinks .

So tell me: Which one will you choose for your next girls trip?

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20 Best Girls Trip Destinations in the USA and Abroad

June 18, 2022.

Please note that this post may contain affiliate links and any sales made through such links will reward me a small commission – at no extra cost for you.

One of my favorite things to do is to plan a trip with my favorite ladies. Not only do you get time to catch up with your best friends when you travel with friends, but you get to explore a new destination at the same time. I think traveling with friends is one of the best ways to really get to know one another! I’ve compiled a list of the best girls trip destinations, both in the US and abroad for your next girls getaway weekend. 

What makes a good girls trip destination? 

I’ve been fortunate to take quite a few amazing girls trips over the years with my closest girlfriends, to both domestic and international destinations. So the first thing to think about is what exactly makes a destination good for a girls getaway trip. I think these things will be different for everyone, so all of the destinations included on this list allow for super diverse activities and travel types . But I will also narrow down what type of destination each is, to help you to make a more informed decision.

 It is also important to account for the different travel styles and preferences of those in the group when picking a destination. There are tons of things to consider when planning a girls trip but a few things that I like to prioritize include:

• Outdoor adventures and activities 
• Amazing restaurants 
• Fun bars or nighttime activities, and more precisely, good wine
• Some cute opportunities for photo ops, because why not! You know I’m a content girl.

Top girls trip destinations for your next getaway

• Tulum, Mexico 
• New York City, New York 
• Dolomites, Italy 

Sedona, Arizona

Bali, indonesia, lake atitlan, guatemala.

• Portugal Road Trip (Lisbon and Porto) 

Palm Springs, California – Joshua Tree, California

Istanbul, turkey, rio de janeiro, brazil, sayulita, mexico, miami, florida, guanajuato, mexico, banff, canada.

• Las Vegas, Nevada 
• New Orleans, Louisiana 
• Mexico City, Mexico 
• Iceland Ring Road 
• Amalfi Coast, Italy 

Tulum, Mexico

So cliche of me, I know, but I wouldn’t be me if I didn’t start this list with one of my all time favorite destinations: Tulum. Tulum, Mexico is one of the best girls trip destinations in the world. 

Located on the eastern side of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, Tulum is easy to get to from most major US cities with direct flights to Cancun International Airport. 

Tulum has garnered a ton of popularity over the past few years as an Instagram-hot spot, filled with trendy restaurants, bars, and a bustling night scene. But despite this you can find accommodations, activities, and dining options to fit any budget. 

I love Tulum as a girls trip destination because there are endless activities available, from exploring crystal clear cenotes like Gran Cenote and Cenote Oxman to exploring ancient Mayan ruins. The food scene is also some of the best in the world, ranging from 50 cent street tacos to Michelin Star dining experiences. So whether you’re looking to stay active or simply spend your days lounging on the beach in front of a fancy eco-friendly hotel, you’ll find it in Tulum. 

Plus, the photo ops are endless! 

Who is this trip for?

Tulum is great for ladies looking for a warm weather destination with a true mix of relaxation, adventure, and a lively food and party scene. As Tulum is an extremely popular destination, you’ll find many of the comforts of home. However, you’re also close to more local areas such as Valladolid.

P.S. if you’re looking for a more laid back vibe you can consider the nearby Holbox Island instead.

Where to stay in Tulum:

Where you stay in Tulum will depend greatly on your group’s budget. I personally love staying in La Valeta to be closer to the town and surrounding cenotes (check out Turquoise Tulum Hotel ), but if you are looking to splurge then consider Azulik or Nomade on the beach. 

New York, New York

New York City, the best city in the world. Okay, maybe I’m a bit biased as I am a native New Yorker, but it really is a destination that works for tons of different travelers. And despite being an expensive city (yes I know it is expensive), it can absolutely be explored on a budget if you head to the right places. In fact, New York City has endless free things to do!

Here are a few of my favorite NYC activities:

• Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge (go at sunrise to avoid the crowds)
• Picnic and a boat ride in Central Park during the summer, or ice skating in the winter
• Visit either Top of the Rock or the Observation Deck at the Empire State Building for some of the best views of the city
• Head over the bridge from Manhattan to explore some of the cutest neighborhoods in Brooklyn, including DUMBO, Brooklyn Heights and Cobble Hill
• Walk the High Line 
• Go on a food crawl through Chinatown. Manhattan’s Chinatown is great, but Flushing Chinatown in Queens is even better!

NYC is the perfect destination for a girls getaway weekend with lots of action. Think great food (arguably some of the best food in the world), live music, epic city views and nonstop activity. Plus, you can also make it a more active trip by renting a car and getting outside of the city for some hikes or camping upstate! NYC truly lives up to its name of the city that never sleeps.

Where to stay in NYC

If you’re planning a girls trip to NYC then I recommend staying in either Downtown Manhattan, to be close to lots of the action, or in Brooklyn if you’re looking for a bit more bang for your buck. Some of my favorite hotels in NYC include  The Williamsburg Hotel, The William Vale, and the Hoxton .

Here are some other articles about NYC to check out when planning your trip:

• Best Instagram Spots in NYC
• A Local’s 4 Day to Guide to NYC

Dolomites, Italy

The Italian Dolomites are easily one of my favorite places in the world, and a road trip through this northern region in Italy makes for one of the best girls trip destinations. Why? Stunning views everywhere. Crystal blue lakes. Winding roads through rolling green hills and striking mountains.

The Dolomites is the perfect girls trip destination for the adventurous ladies. You won’t find the fancy restaurants and epic nightlife of some of the other destinations on this list. But, you’ll have endless hikes to explore in one of the most beautiful regions in the world. Plus aperol spritzes and large bowls of pasta pair perfectly with long hiking days.

Where to stay in the Dolomites

As I mentioned above, if you’re visiting the Dolomites then I absolutely recommend renting a car and exploring the region by planning a road trip. However, if you don’t want to move around too much then you’ll want to base yourself in an area with access to many of the best hikes. I recommend either Cortina D’Ampezzo or Ortisei (Urtijei). Here are some good hotel options, plus a mountain hut (rifugio):

• Hotel Cristallino d’Ampezzo 
• Albergo Pontives
• Rifugio Firenze

Hotels can get pricey so make sure to book ahead for deals, or opt to stay at one of the various mountain rifugios instead for a more rustic experience.

Here are some other articles about the Dolomites to check out when planning your trip:

• Road Trip in the Dolomites
• Where to Stay in the Dolomites
• Guide to Hiking Seceda

Next up on the list: Sedona, Arizona. If you know me at all then it should be no surprise that this list is packed with many of the best hiking destinations around the world. Hiking destinations make for some of the best girls trips destinations in my opinion after all!

A trip to Sedona is best with your girl crew that loves the outdoors, but still wants access to the many amenities a city like Sedona has to offer (like a spa day!). One thing that I love about Sedona is that there are hikes for all fitness levels, so not everyone in the group has to be an avid hiker. Plus, hiking is a great free activity if not everyone traveling together is on the same budget.

Where to stay in Sedona

While there are a ton of great hotel options in Sedona, including some luxury spa resorts like Amara Resort and Spa . I recommend doing some camping during your trip. I visited Sedona most recently on a girls campervan road trip with Cabana Vans. We camped along Forest Road 1, which has free campsites with some of the best views in town.

Here are some other articles about Sedona to check out when planning your trip:

• Best Hikes in Sedona, Arizona

While we’re talking about great outdoor destinations in the US, it would be impossible to not mention Moab, Utah . Moab is a prime girls trip destination for an adventure-packed trip since you have access to 3 amazing parks: Arches National Park , Canyonlands, and Dead Horse Point State Park .

A trip to Moab is for your adventure-loving friends. If you’re planning a road trip then it can easily be combined with other nearby destinations such as Page or Sedona (another destination on this list)!

Where to stay in Moab

I’m always a fan of camping while on adventure-packed vacations. We stayed at a primitive campsite about 10 minutes off the main road heading towards Dead Horse Point State Park, past the Lone Mesa Group sites on the left hand side. We checked out this area after our initial plan to snag a first-come first-served spot at  Horsethief Campground  didn’t work out. There are also campground options within many of the nearby parks.

However, if you’re booking a hotel, I recommend choosing one near town, that will give you close access to the parks.

• Under Canvas
• The Gonzo Inn
• Adventure Inn Moab

Here are some other articles about Moab to check out when planning your trip:

• Things to do in Moab, Utah
• Best Hikes in Arches National Park
• Guide to Dead Horse Point State Park

Likely the most cliche destination on this guide to the best girls trip destinations, and probably also the furthest. But no doubt one of my favorites! I mean what screams amazing girls trip more than a trip to Bali, Indonesia? If you’re comfortable traveling about 24 hours each way from the East Coast of the US, and splurging a bit on a ticket, this is a fantastic destination option for you. I’ve found tickets from NYC to Bali for as cheap as $600-700, and once you arrive it is an extremely affordable destination.

This is the perfect girls trip for your friends who love to travel. You are going to want to make sure you’re traveling with friends who are comfortable with long haul flights, because Bali isn’t close if you’re coming from the US. But boy is it worth it! You’ve got the waterfalls and rice terraces of Ubud , cliffs and surf of Uluwatu, trendy cafes of Canggu , and all of the epic water adventures on the Nusa islands .

Where to stay in Bali

Where to stay in Bali will greatly depend on how much time you have on the island. A few areas that I recommend visiting are the following include Canggu, Ubud, Uluwatu, Munduk and the nearby Nusa Islands. Here are a few of my favorite hotel options across the island:

• Lemon Guesthouse (Canggu)
• Alternative Beach (Canggu)
• The Farm Hostel (Canggu)
• White Stone Villa (Ubud)
• Merthayasa Bungalows (Ubud)

Here are some other articles about Bali to check out when planning your trip:

• Bali on a Budget
• Guide to Canggu, Bali
• Guide to the Best Waterfalls in Bali

Lake Atitlan is one of the most magical places in the world. It is relaxing, affordable, and packed with fun activities for any type of traveler. It is truly on the best girls trip destinations. Plus, if you have a full week it can easily be combined with a few days in Antigua, or elsewhere in Guatemala.

Boat rides, sunrise hikes, swimming in the cool lake water, plus the most gorgeous views. Guatemala is an amazing affordable destination that has so much to offer!

This trip is great for your friends who are a bit more adventurous when it comes to traveling. Guatemala is an incredible country but like any country in Central America, things may not always go according to plan. In the towns around Lake Atitlan you’ll find the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, that can be catered to any budget.

Where to stay in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

The first thing to decide is where you want to be staying. Panajachel is the gateway to the lake, as it is the only town easily accessible by car. This is where any shared tourist shuttles will drop you. When deciding where to stay, you can either choose one town and take day trips or move around and stay in a number of different towns. This really depends on your personal travel style and budget.

• Loft Airbnb (Panajachel)
• Hotel Atitlan  (Panajachel)
• Lush  (San Marcos)
• La Fortuna at Atitlan (Santa Cruz)
• La Iguana Perdida  (Santa Cruz)

Here are some other articles about Guatemala to check out when planning your trip:

• Things to do in Lake Atitlan
• One Week Guatemala Itinerary
• Things to do in Antigua

Portugal Road Trip (Lisbon and Porto)

Portugal is easily one of my favorite places in the world. If it was a possibility, I would probably move there tomorrow. I simply couldn’t choose between Lisbon and Porto, so I decided to include them both as I feel that any trip to Portugal should include a combination of the two. Plus, if you have the time then a drive down to the Algarves is a must as well.

Wine lovers. Seafood lovers. City lovers. This trip is for you! Portugal offers a slower pace than other European cities, so you can get the perfect mix of city travels with days sipping wine by the water.

Here are some other articles about Portugal to check out when planning your trip:

• 3 Days in Porto
• 11 Things You Can’t Miss in Lisbon

Going to college in Los Angeles, I fortunately had the opportunity to take quite a few girls weekend trips to Joshua Tree National Park over the years. The park offers some of the most unique desert landscapes, with endless hiking opportunities. You can easily spend a week (or more) exploring all of the hikes.

Adventure lovers, who still crave a bit of comfort. Unlike some of the other adventure destinations on this list, Joshua Tree is perfect because there are some boutique airbnb homes with easy access to all of the best hikes in the park.

Plus, it is just a short drive for Los Angeles, which can easily be combined for an ultimate girls getaway!

Where to stay in Joshua Tree and Palm Springs

Where you stay in Joshua Tree completely depends on how adventurous you would like to be. You have the opportunity to camp within the park (Jumbo Rocks Campground is my personal favorite), or you can stay just outside the park. You’ll find tons of the cutest airbnb properties that look straight out of Pinterest. We stayed at High Desert Cabins and absolutely loved it.

Another option is to stay in Palm Springs, located about 45 minutes from the park. Here you’ll find boutique hotels, perfects for your girls getaway weekend.

A visit to Istanbul offers some of the most breathtaking architecture and delicious food that I’ve ever had. Not to mention that it is absolutely bustling with energy, and home to some of the most welcoming people in the world.

What I love about Istanbul is that is can be enjoyed as a weekend trip, but there is so much to do that you can easily spend a week or more exploring the city. And of course, there are so many other cities in Turkey to explore.

Here are a few of my favorite things to do in Istanbul:

• Visit the famous mosques, including Hagia Sofia and Suleymaniye
• Explore the grounds of Topkapi Palace
• Wander the colorful streets of Balat
• Shop until you drop at the Spice Bazaar and Grand Bazaar
• Sip a tea at 7tepe Sahne for city views
• Enjoy a full Turkish breakfast

Food lovers. Culture and history lovers. And of course those that love the hustle and bustle of a big, busy city. I could put together an entire guide just on where to eat in Istanbul, because the food scene here is truly incredible. Plus, it is perfect for a girls trip because a full Turkish breakfast and meant for sharing, with lots of small plates.

Where to stay in Istanbul

Where you choose to stay in Istanbul will depend greatly on what you’re planning to do and how close to the action you like to be. We opted to stay in Karakoy and loved it. It was close enough to the main attractions for our short trip, but also removed from the main tourist area a bit. If we had more time I would have liked to try staying even further away from the tourist center.

SuB Karakoy – simple but affordable, located walking distance from many of the main tourist attractions, plus tons of great restaurants and cafes nearby.

I’ll admit, Rio was a destination was actually wasn’t high on my bucket list. I can’t explain why, but it just didn’t call to me in the way that other destinations do. However, when a close friend moved to Brazil, it was the perfect reason to plan a girls trip to Rio. Safe to say, Rio de Janeiro far exceeded all of my expectations. It was the perfect girls trip destination!

Here a few of my favorite things to do in Rio:

• Take a sunrise tour to visit Mirante Dona Marte and Christ the Redeemer
• Hike Pedra Bonita
• Go paragliding over the city
• Enjoy the beautiful beaches of Brazil – Joatinga Beach was my favorite!
• Grab a local acai bowl – Polis Sucos is my favorite casual breakfast spot
• Enjoy brunch at Parque Lage
• Take a weekend trip to Ilha Grande
• Day drinking and samba dancing at Bafo da Prainha

Rio is the perfect girls trip for ladies looking for excitement. Rio has a magical energy that I can’t quite put into words. The food, the music, the beaches.. and of course the endless caipirinhas.

As note, while I did feel safe in Rio, it is important to take necessary precautions due to heightened crime. Avoid walking alone at night, don’t be flashy with your valuables, and be aware of your surroundings.

Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro

We stayed in Ipanema during our stay in Rio and absolutely loved it. We felt safe, there were tons of nearby restaurants and bars, and we were situated close to the beach. I would avoid staying in the main tourist hub of Copacabana.

I will start this by saying that my initial reaction to Sayulita was – meh! We arrived right before a holiday weekend, the beaches were PACKED with people, and I was getting some serious Cancun vibes. I am not saying that that is abad thing, it is just not what I was looking for out of my time in Mexico. Fortunately, after just a few hours of exploring the nooks and crannies of this awesome surf town, my opinion was quickly changed. Sayulita is an awesome place! It is the perfect combination of beach and sun combined with great nightlife – from restaurants to bars that go all night long. This not-so-sleepy surf town definitely gets busy, but there are plenty of spots to go to avoid the crowds.

One thing that is so great about Sayulita is that it appeals to so many different types of travelers. This Pueblo Magico is a hot spot for expats and digital nomads, an easy place to hang out for a couple of months. It is popular with surfers, as it is known for some of the best waves in Mexico. However, you’ll also find lots of US and Mexican tourists who visit for just a few days.

Sayulita is perfect for your girls getaway if you enjoy any of the following:

• surfing and beaches
• yoga and wellness
• parties that go all night long
• incredible local Mexican cuisine

Where to stay in Sayulita

There are tons of amazing places to stay in Sayulita, and the best thing is that you can find something for any type of traveler on any budget.

Airbnbs in Sayulita :  Boho Rooftop Studio ,  Jungle House

Boutique hotels in Sayulita:   Hotel Boutique Oz ,  Avela Boutique Hotel ,  Don Bonito

One thing to note when choosing a place to stay, the center of Sayulita is busy and loud, especially on the weekends and during the high season. You can expect to hear people out partying until the early hours of the morning. 

WiFi is hit or miss, but cell signal is pretty strong throughout the town if you have an international plan. I got perfect service throughout my trip with my T-Mobile cell plan. 

Here are some other articles about Sayulita to check out when planning your trip:

• Best things to do in Sayulita
• Where to eat in Sayulita
• Guide to San Pancho, Mexico

A ladies weekend in Miami is just about as fun as it gets. The music, the clubs, the food, Miami has all of the vibes. There is so much to do in Miami, so your group will have no issue staying entertained! From rooftop bars and pool parties, to my favorite Greek restaurant – Mandolin Aegean Bistro. Plus, make sure you spend a day relaxing on the beaches of Key Biscayne.

If you are craving long beach days, followed by even longer nights on the dancefloor, then Miami is a perfect getaway for your girl gang.

Where to stay in Miami

I personally like to stay in either Brickell or South Beach when visiting Miami. The 1 Hotel South Beach is the perfect destination for your girls getaway if you’re looking to splurge a bit.

I fell in love with Guanajuato within seconds of arriving. With rolling hills of scattered buildings of all colors, it was hard not to. Located in central Mexico, Guanajuato City is the capital of the state with the same name. Despite its UNESCO Heritage Site status, this charming yet local city doesn’t receive the same influx of tourists as nearby San Miguel de Allende.

Guanajuato has some of the best food, so I’ve compiled a few of my favorite places to here and drink for you:

• La Clave Azul for sipping tequila and small bites
• Los Campos for a delicious, sit down meal paired with the best cocktails
• Truco 7 for local classics
• Mercado Hidalgo for all of the best tostada stands

Guanajuato is the perfect girls trip destination for ladies looking for good food, culture and the good views of a charming colorful city. With direct flights from the US, it is a fun long weekend trip, or can be combined with visits to nearby cities such as San Miguel de Allende or Mexico City. What Guanajuato isn’t is a beach destination, so don’t plan a trip here expecting that.

Where to stay in Guanajuato

Do yourself a favor and book yourself a room at Casa Zuniga right now! This cactus haven is situated right by the famous Monumento al Pipila, with incredible views of the city down below. Our spacious room came with a private balcony, perfect for watching the sun rise and set over the colorful city down below. Not to mention the breakfast is absolutely heavenly. Although I’m bias because I didn’t actually stay anywhere else, in my opinion  Casa Zuniga  is the best place to stay in Guanajuato City. For only $75/night it is seriously a steal!

If you’re looking for something a bit higher end then I recommend checking out  Casa del Rector . Located right in the center, this boutique hotel is pure luxury.

On the other end of the spectrum you can find some great, affordable hostels for solo travelers. I have heard great things about  Hostal Seis 7 .

Here are some other articles about Guanajuato to check out when planning your trip:

• A Travel Guide to Guanajuato City

If you know me then you’ll probably be surprised to find out that I’ve only been to Banff once. And yet I can’t seem to shut up about it! But I promise, it really is that great! Banff National Park  was on my bucket list for a long time before I had the chance to visit with my mom. I love vacations that allow me to escape into the mountains, and  Banff is the perfect place to do just that.

Snow-capped mountains. Icy glacier lakes in the prettiest blue hues. I swear Banff looks like a movie set! And the best part is that you can experience many of these epics viewpoints without a strenuous hike. So while I personally love a good hike, it allows these beautiful locations to be way more accessible.

My outdoor ladies, this one is (also) for you. While there are a few luxury mountain resorts, this trip is really for the ladies who are looking to get outside and explore!

Where to stay in Banff

There are tons of accommodation options for those looking to visit Banff: camping, RV, Airbnb, hostels, or, of course, your standard hotels.

If you are looking for slightly cheaper accommodation in a super cute town then I recommend staying in the town of Canmore! We spent a couple of nights at the  Lamphouse Hotel . My favorite thing about this accommodation was the self-check-in service and the continental breakfast stocked right to your fridge. We were often out of the hotel before sunrise, so a fridge stocked with complimentary yogurts, fruit, and granola bars was the perfect setup.

For more information on booking the  Lamphouse Hotel  click  here ! 

Staying in Banff National Park itself also has its perks, as you will be closer to many of your destinations. However, lodging tends to be pricier and the town itself is more touristy than surrounding towns such as Canmore.

Here are some other articles about Banff to check out when planning your trip:

• 3 Days in Banff
• A Guide to Moraine Lake
• The Best Hikes in Banff

Las Vegas, Nevada

I’ve been to Vegas more than once on a girls trip and it is always a blast. From pool parties to all night clubs, there is quite literally always something to do in Vegas.

This is one of the few destinations on my guide to the best girls trip destinations that really isn’t geared towards my adventure ladies. Instead Vegas is for my ladies looking to have FUN in the form of pool parties, casinos, overpriced drinks, and shows!

It goes without saying that Las Vegas is a destination that you should visit at least once in your life, and what better way to experience it than with your best girls friends?

New Orleans, Louisiana

Some of my favorite things to do in New Orleans:

• Enjoy $1 happy hour oysters from Bourbon House
• Dine on the best stuffed oysters from Luke’s
• Head to the oldest bar in New Orleans, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar for a hurricane
• Beignets from Cafe du Monde
• Grab a drink at the Carousel Bar at Hotel Monteleone
• Take a stroll through the popular neighborhoods, including Magazine Street, the French Quarter and the infamous Bourbon street.

Music lovers. Party lovers. You come to New Orleans for two main things – to listen to great music, and more importantly, to party. Or more specifically, to get drunk. Of course this amazing city has plenty else to offer, but ff you are looking for a wild party weekend with your girls, then New Orleans is the destination for you.

Here are some other articles about New Orleans to check out when planning your trip:

• Weekend Guide to New Orleans

Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City, or CDMX as it is more commonly referred to, is the perfect long weekend city destination. From the amazing culinary scene to the art-filled museums, CDMX is a city packed with culture, and plenty of action, for your next girls getaway. Not to mention, it is a super affordable destination that can work for any budget!

Here are a few of my favorite things to do:

• Enjoy a classic Mexican breakfast at Fonda Margarita
• Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum
• Explore the different neighborhoods, Condesa, Roma Norte, Coyoacan and more!
• Dinner at my favorite restaurant in CDMX – Contramar
• Visit Chapultepec Castle
• Take a day trip to the Teotihuacan Pyramids

Food and cultural lovers. If your girlfriends are the type to enjoy delicious food, then Mexico City should definitely be a contender for your next girls getaway.

Where to stay in CDMX

Mexico City is such a huge city, so your first question is probably where the heck you should be staying.  If you’re planning a trip to Mexico City, I recommend booking your accommodation in either  Roma Norte  or  Condesa . Both of these neighborhoods have plenty of great hotels, hostels, and airbnbs to suit any budget. Plus, in both of these neighborhood I personally felt super safe walking around as a female, even at night.

Here are some other articles about Mexico City to check out when planning your trip:

• 3 Days in Mexico City
• Best Places to eat in Mexico City

Iceland Ring Road

I visited Iceland for the first time on a girls trip with my mom, sister, and best friend, and absolutely fell in love! We spent 9 days driving around the country, and easily could have spent another 9 days. Our 4 hour driving days would turn into 14 hour days since we couldn’t help stopping every few minutes for a stroll and more pictures.

Here are a few of my favorite stops on an Iceland road trip:

• Take a soak at the Myvatn Nature Baths (Jardbodin vid Myvatn)
• Go whale watching in Husavik
• Admire the Godafoss Waterfall
• Take a hike on the Solheimajokull Glacier
• Go for a swim at the Seljavallalaug  pool

An Iceland Ring Road road trip is for the adventure-seekers. The hikers and photography lovers. And most importantly, for your group of girl friends that like to drive and have good taste in music. That said, it is also a difficult destination to do on a budget, even with camping and cooking your own meals. One way to optimize your time is to visit during the summer when the days are absurdly long.

Where to stay in Iceland

In my opinion, the best way to explore Iceland is with a road trip and the camping card. There are tons of camping spots all of the country that you can stay at for a set price. This is by far the most affordable way to visit Iceland.

Here are some other articles about Iceland to check out when planning your trip:

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Italy is having a moment, and the Amalfi Coast is the main character. What is there not to love about this iconic destination? Striking coast lines, colorful umbrellas, and the bluest waters. Not to mention all of the delicious pizza, pasta, and gelato!

The Amalfi Coast is for your girl gang that is looking for a touch of luxury. The ladies you want to rent private boats to island hop, sip aperol spritzes with cliffside views, and soak up the Italian summer vibes.

Where to stay along the Amalfi Coast

Positano, Amalfi, Praiano, Ravello.. no matter where you choose to stay it will be beautiful. Just prepare yourself for steps, and lots of them.

While Positano, Italy seems to be getting all of the love these days, if you’re visiting during the busy season I would recommend staying in a nearby town to avoid the crowds.

I would recommend checking out Airbnb for some great deals, but if you’re looking to splurge, here are a few hotels to check out:

• Casa Angelina
• Villa Piedimonte

Like what you read about the best girls trip destinations? Make sure to Pin it for later!

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6 Cruises That Are Perfect for a Girls Trip

These cruise lines make planning your next girls trip a breeze.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruises

A girls trip is always a good idea, but organizing one can be stressful — especially when you take into account everyone’s varied interests, preferences, and budgets. To alleviate the stress of planning an epic girls getaway, consider embarking on a cruise, where everything you could ever want or need (think: ample drinking and dining options, amenities, and activities) can be found right on board.  Plus, there are dozens of different destinations and lines to choose from, which means options truly abound. Abbie Clinton, CEO of Got Your Bash recommends having your next girls trip at sea for the “all-inclusive aspect.” What’s more, she explains, “The nice thing about cruises is that you can know exactly what you’re spending before you even board the ship. Obviously, this doesn’t include what you’re spending in the port, but when on board,  you know your food and drinks (always weigh the options of the packages) are going to be included.” She also notes that cruises are especially great since “everyone is together in one spot, [yet they] can also do their own thing” and are not tied to a tight schedule. 

With all this in mind, we’ve rounded up the top cruise lines that are perfect for a girls trip — including expert-approved and award-winning picks. 

Related: 25 Best Girls' Weekend Getaways Around the World

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

For a luxurious cruising experience, Clinton recommends setting sail with Celebrity , whose fleet of swanky ships will impress everyone in the group. Sea days are well spent at the spa or lounging by the pools; alternatively, those who prefer to stay active can do yoga, hit the gym, play pickleball, or hit the shops. When hunger calls, gather everyone together before heading to one of the stylish onboard eateries, many of which are complimentary, such as the haute French restaurant, Normandie. However, for a worth-it splurge — perhaps for your last night on board — check out one of the specialty dining venues, including Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud or Le Petit Chef; options vary depending on the ship. Pre- or post-dinner, grab a drink at one of the sleek bars or sign up for a wine or mixology class before moving on to the casino. “Also,” says Clinton, “the entertainment on these cruise ships is unbelievable,” with options running the gamut from silent discos to Quasar, the onboard nightclub (on select ships). Book one of the five-night Bahamas and Mexico sailings for an easy — and fun-filled — warm-weather escape. 

Carnival Cruise Line

Courtesy of Carnival Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line is among Clinton’s top picks for a wallet-friendly girls trip at sea. Plus, with over two dozen ships sailing from major U.S. cities like New York, Charleston, Los Angeles, Tampa, Miami, and more, it’s easy to find an itinerary that works for everyone in the group. Each Carnival vessel offers dozens of splashy activities and entertainment options — from roller coasters to water slides to mini golf — meaning it’s pretty much impossible to be bored on board. While adventure and adrenaline enthusiasts are at play, the serenity seekers of the groups can head to the aptly named Cloud 9 spa or adults-only Serenity space. Girls groups that are tight on time may consider booking one of the short-but-sweet two-day Bahamas sailings from Miami or the three-day Baja Mexico itineraries from Los Angeles , which start at $189 and $224 per person, respectively — talk about a steal.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

Clinton describes Virgin Voyages as “fun, funky, and out there.” This (very accurate) description — combined with the line’s top-notch drinking and dining options (read: no buffets!), adults-only ambiance, and over-the-the-top entertainment offerings and amenities (including onboard tattoo parlors and risque cabaret shows) — makes it ideal for high-energy, party-centric groups. Just take it from T+L’s special projects editor, Elizabeth Rodes, who writes, “My sister and I went on a Virgin Voyages Irresistible Med sailing last summer, and it was the ultimate girls trip. The adults-only cruise line is known for its over-the-top parties, delicious a la carte restaurants (hello, Korean BBQ!), and super-Instagrammable spaces. Add partying in Ibiza, shopping in St. Tropez, and visiting picture-perfect Portofino, and it was the perfect sister vacation." Pro tip: Suite guests also gain access to Richard’s Rooftop, a members-only lounge area offering pre-dinner cocktail hours, stargazing parties, and more. Finally, for itineraries a bit closer to home, check out one of the line’s Caribbean sailings ranging from four to eight nights in length.

Related: I Took a Virgin Voyages Cruise With My Sister — and It Was the Ultimate Girls Trip

Holland America Line

Courtesy of Holland America

Those craving a more refined onboard experience should book a Holland America Line sailing. In August 2022, my younger sister and I cruised to Alaska with the line and loved every moment of our onboard experience. We spent our days out gawking at the glacial views out by the pool, sipping coffee and spotting whales from the Explorer’s Lounge, and relaxing in the spa’s thermal suite — with breaks for coffee, lunch, and cocktails, albeit not exactly in that order. Before we knew it, it was time for dinner, though the night didn’t end immediately afterward. We kept the fun going with trips to the casino plus a round (or two) of drinks at the bar. Holland America Line is famous for its live music offerings. My sister and I loved watching — and singing along to — the dueling piano performances at Billboard Onboard before retreating to our contemporary stateroom for some z’s. I may be biased, but I especially recommend booking the seven-day Alaskan Explorer itinerary , which cruises round trip from Seattle and calls on postcard-worthy ports like Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Sitka, Ketchikan, and Victoria (British Columbia).

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its fun and fuss-free approach to cruising (read: no set reservation times or dress codes). With that in mind, groups are not tied to set schedules, allowing travelers to explore — or relax — at their own pace. Prefer to spend the day snoozing by the pool while your friends opt to zip down water slides together? Go for it. Alternatively, check out The Waterfront, a quarter-mile-long oceanfront promenade, retreat to the adults-only Vibe Beach Club, or race your friends while go-karting (options vary depending on the ship). Picky eaters, rejoice: NCL offers a slew of bars and restaurants to choose from featuring cuisine from all across the globe. Come nighttime, groups can take their pick of seemingly endless entertainment options, including Broadway-caliber productions, deck parties, stand-up comedy, and (so much) more. For a worth-it splurge, split a stateroom in The Haven by Norwegian, a ship-within-a-ship concept offering luxury accommodations and 24-hour butler service. NCL offers sailings from major U.S. cities like New Orleans, Galveston, New York, Boston, and Los Angeles.

Related : 21 Cruise Tips That Will Help Make Your Trip Even Better, According to Experts

Royal Caribbean

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Know for its massive mega-ships and flashy onboard activities and entertainment (think: escape rooms, ten-story slides, zip lines, bumper cars, ice skating, and surfing and skydiving simulators, though exact options vary depending on the ship), Royal Caribbean cruises truly offer something fun for everyone — especially kids-at-heart. However, that’s not to say the line doesn’t have adult-centric offerings, either. Soak up the sun from the secluded Solarium, an indoor-outdoor space exclusively reserved for grown-ups. The spa is also an excellent spot for those seeking a calming reprieve from the bustling common areas. My friend and I embarked on a Royal Caribbean sailing a few years back and were blown away by the onboard neighborhood offerings (which vary depending on the ship), from the carousel and candy shop at the Boardwalk to the swanky shops and lush flora of Central Park and beyond. While specialty dining options vary based on the ship, I recommend sitting down for a group dinner at Izumi Hibachi & Sushi; meanwhile, The Chef’s Table offers a more elevated and intimate experience — complete with a mouthwatering multi-course food and wine pairing menu — that will entice the gourmand in every girl group. You can’t go wrong with one of the line’s weekend cruises , which sail from Port Canaveral, Miami, Galveston, or Los Angeles.

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Confession: I Travel Like A Girl

March 8, 2015 by Silvia 62 Comments

Some of you guys have shrewdly observed that I’m now traveling with a boy. What?!

I know, it’s a change.

Now I no longer have to ask strangers to help me lift my bag into absurdly high luggage compartments, I have access to an iPod with good music (his, not mine), and not once has a strange man interrupted my travel bliss with a lewd offer to “show me around.” 

Plus it’s pretty great traveling with someone with such a high tolerance for my annoying antics.

But the best part about traveling with a boy? This time around my travel plans weren’t met with the shock and concern that they so often were when I was traveling alone.

And by best I mean worst, because, seriously? Last year I felt like I had been hurled back centuries through time when people kept reacting to my plans to backpack through Iran with horror, telling me that I couldn’t possibly travel there alone as a woman.

If you haven’t read through my Iran archives here’s a spoiler: I didn’t get kidnapped and I didn’t get raped. In fact, I’m tempted to say that traveling through Iran is actually easier as a woman, because it seemed like every girl and her grandmother considered it their personal responsibility to look after me. Yes it was annoying having to separate from men on public transportation, but I’m going to let you in on a secret: the women’s section is so much more fun!

I love traveling with Dan, but when I was traveling with Danielle we had loads of adventures that I don’t think I could have with a guy. Like that time we hitchhiked with the Tajik mafia on the Pamir Highway, or when we “innocently” wandered through Europe’s marijuana growing capital and were treated to lunch and drinks by local harvesters. And then there was that time we used lipstick and casual chitchat to help us sneak across the Kazakh border when we had forgotten to register our visas.

Being a girl doesn’t suck.

On the border between Afghanistan and Tajikistan

Recently at a hostel in Malaysia people in my dorm were talking about where they had been traveling and I launched into my usual (super obnoxious, I’m sorry) rant about how Central Asia is the best place in the world to backpack and everyone should go there now. One of the girls responded that she was surprised that I had been to the Stans, because I seem like “such a girl.”

Um, yes. But also, what does that even mean?

My travel essentials include nail polish and lipstick, my iPod is pink, and right now I’m backpacking with four skirts and only one pair of jeans. Sometimes when I walk my arms float around me like I’m dancing (I blame all the ballet lessons), and books, cartoons, pretty places, winding roads, Taylor Swift songs, stern Russian women, and onions have all been known to turn me into a weepy mess. So if that’s what Sara meant by saying I’m “such a girl” then yes, I’m such a girl.

But I’m not sure I know what that has to do with my travels in Central Asia.

At least I wish I didn’t. The truth is, I’m all too familiar with the connection.

While traveling through the Stans, Sasha, Danielle and I were often greeted with raised eyebrows from fellow backpackers.

The backpacker scene in Central Asia is mostly male (or at least it was when I was there in 2013) and when we did meet other female travelers they were almost always there with their boyfriends. So I imagine Danielle, Sasha, and I did make for an unexpected sight when we’d arrive at a hostel with our lopsided backpacks overstuffed with super serious backpacking essentials like dresses and gummy candy.

Usually other backpackers would just look a little amused, but sometimes they seemed downright offended by our lack of seriousness.

Glancing at our flimsy flip-flops in disgust Serious Backpacker would be all, “Wait, you’ve been in Kyrgyzstan for three weeks and you still haven’t gone hiking?!”

Funny, because I was feeling the same sort of dismay at your never having tried the local qurt balls .

Maybe I’d understand their attitude if we weren’t making any attempts to explore the country, but while Serious Backpacker was staying solely at hostels and going on solitary hikes, we were doing mostly home stays and skipping the popular tourist activities to instead hang out with locals . I mean, had Serious Backpacker even bothered learning any Russian for this trip?

With our host family in Sary-Tash, Kyrgyzstan

Really, getting to know a local culture is a far better way of traveling than talking only to other tourists at hostels and spending time alone in the wilderness.

That’s total nonsense, of course. Frankly it’s none of my business how someone else chooses to travel. There’s no “right” way to travel.

You don’t have to run everyday and be able to lift 200 kg to travel through Kyrgyzstan, you don’t have to love partying and look awesome in a bikini to travel through Thailand, and you don’t have to be a vegetarian obsessed with yoga to travel through India.

I do try to encourage people to get off the beaten track and visit less touristy countries, but if seeing Paris is your dream, then forget Armenia , by all means go to France! And if you don’t really want to visit the Louvre and Eiffel Tower but instead would rather spend all your time in an adorable cafe gorging on pastries, well, bon appétit!

Happy International Women’s Day!

I love how big of a deal Women’s Day is in Russia – most of the women I’ve seen today are walking around with bouquets of flowers. I’m still waiting for my flowers, but I’m sure I’ll get them eventually.

When I buy them for myself because I’m an independent woman like that, duh!

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Christina Guan says

March 8, 2015 at 4:35 pm

Love this post! Your take on female solo travel is so refreshing. 🙂 Happy International Women’s Day!

Silvia says

March 12, 2015 at 12:53 am

Thanks, Christina, glad you enjoyed it!

Charlie says

March 8, 2015 at 4:43 pm

Excellent piece of writing, very much enjoyed reading this one! And absolutely love your bit about how winding roads, onions etc turn you into a weeping mess haha! I think it’s awesome also to have plenty of different travel experiences, including with different travel companions. Go you, and have an awesome time with Dan 😀

March 12, 2015 at 12:55 am

It’s amazing how different traveling with different people can be, or traveling on your own! It’s been fun seeing what it’s like to travel with a guy 🙂

March 8, 2015 at 6:19 pm

Absolutely, there’s no right way to travel! Do what you like, how you like and as long as you’re not hurting anyone else, go for it! Of course, this applies to everyone, girls and non-girls alike. I love the reclamation of “like a girl” happening at the moment, because, frankly misogyny is lame and people need to get over it. Girl power!

March 12, 2015 at 12:56 am

Well put! I don’t understand when travelers get competitive or preachy, as if backpacking is a game with rules or something. So silly.

March 8, 2015 at 8:21 pm

Happy Women’s Day! It’s one of my favorite holidays of all time. Tulips for me today 🙂

Tulips! Glad to hear you enjoyed the holiday 🙂

March 8, 2015 at 8:45 pm

I love this post. I too travel like a girl. My laptop case is pink, so are my sun glasses! Meh who cares, if us travellers were all the same then travelling would be boring! Happy International Woman’s day!

March 12, 2015 at 12:58 am

I’m glad to hear that you’re matching your laptop case to your sunglasses – very important, haha 🙂

Rachel says

March 8, 2015 at 9:00 pm

Bunches of flowers! Wow, that’s so awesome. Oh Russia! I love this post, very inspiring. I can’t wait to visit Iran and I dream of Central Asia: so much world, so little time! Think I’ll be spending the rest of the afternoon reading your blog 🙂

Happy International Women’s Day!

There really is so much to see! Sometimes I get panicky about not having been to South America yet, and then I realize that I’m 26, haha.

March 12, 2015 at 4:22 am

Oh you lucky young thing! I’m older than that, boo 🙁 I’ve never been to South America either!

Martina says

March 8, 2015 at 9:03 pm

jameela deen says

March 8, 2015 at 10:29 pm

Although I haven’t left many comments i’m following your blog and always eagerly open your newsletter. Your blog is so fresh and you seem to have a very healthy travel philosophy. You go girl! And keep bringing us stories of far away lands and places no many people travel to. By the way i’m reading you from Saudi Arabia now… how’s that for a misunderstood destination? Have you been yet?

March 12, 2015 at 1:02 am

Wow, that’s pretty amazing, Jameela! I haven’t been to Saudi Arabia yet but I would loooove to go! I met a guy in Israel who snuck across the border in the trunk of a car – I probably won’t be doing that, haha.

March 9, 2015 at 1:13 am

Word, I was busting out my diva clicks, nodding along and everything reading along to this, because this mirrors a lot of how I feel about travelling as a girl too. And it’s so funny the assumptions made by the way you travel solely on the way you act, especially if you act ‘girly’. Don’t underestimate the girlyness that’s all I’ll say!

Yessss happy to hear I’m not the only one!

March 9, 2015 at 7:34 am

Happy your day and every day !

Thanks, Amir!

Jo-Anne says

March 9, 2015 at 7:51 am

Oh what adventures you have had, I have only recently started to take oversea holidays with Tim of course I can’t imagine going somewhere without him, ie: on my own………..

March 12, 2015 at 1:03 am

That’s funny, because I couldn’t imagine traveling with a partner – but it’s been great!

Justine says

March 9, 2015 at 9:50 am

Wait, what? It was International Women’s Day? I didn’t get the memo! But it’s really awesome that it’s such a big deal in Russia. I definitely didn’t see any women walking around with flowers in Jakarta…including myself!

March 12, 2015 at 5:26 pm

It was kind of crazy what a big deal Women’s Day is in Russia – already on Friday I was seeing tons of women walking around with flowers and gifts. It’s funny how different countries celebrate it. Like how in Japan and Russia women get flowers and chocolates, and in the US we talk about women’s rights and female empowerment, haha.

Sarah Marris-Swann says

March 9, 2015 at 12:43 pm

Hi Silvia! So happy to have found your blog through Hippie in Heels. It’s always nice to know that I’ve not been alone in being told “don’t go there, you’ll get raped!” and that there are other women/girls out there defying people’s expectations and changing what it means to travel like a girl! Your travels and adventures sound amazing. Keep on keeping on!

March 12, 2015 at 5:27 pm

Thanks, Sarah, I’m glad you made your way over here!

March 9, 2015 at 3:30 pm

yep, this is all me. my packing essentials are various shades of lipstick and nail polish. and a hello kitty notebook.

Haha my notebook is bright pink.

Rebekah says

March 9, 2015 at 8:43 pm

I love that you travel like a girl. I’m like the opposite because I’m SO lazy that I have like nothing in my pack but my running shoes in case I get the chance to go running. Its not that I’m serious, I’m just way to lazy to make my pack heavier. I hate judgey people in hostels. I always order western food in Chinese hostels because its usually my chance to actually have a burger or a salad and I have no patience for people who’ve been in the country 10 minutes telling me that I should be eating noodles. People should travel their own trips.

March 12, 2015 at 5:30 pm

I definitely get you on the lazy part – I haven’t exercised at all since leaving Thailand (I like to pretend carrying my heavy backpack around is exercise enough, haha). And yeah, I always get embarrassed when I eat Western food around other travelers, but then I remind myself that after so many years in Asia, Western food is actually more of a change! lol

March 9, 2015 at 8:54 pm

YES–your words are so spot on. I honestly feel like this “female dilemma” translates into every area of life. Yes, I love heels, earrings, lipstick, and chocolate, but you better believe I can navigate my way through a new city (or country), give a killer presentation at work, and hold my own when drinking with the guys (okay…maybe that last one is a lie). Really loving this post!

March 12, 2015 at 5:31 pm

Yes!! One of the things I loved about working in Japan was that I could totally outdrink most of my male coworkers (because they were about half my size, haha).

jennifer says

March 9, 2015 at 8:55 pm

When I went to Mount Everest, a Tibetan woman who’s yak hair tent we slept in (is this sentence even real?) called a girl in our group a princess. Her response was to break into laughter and gesture “NO”. There is definitely a stigma with appearing girly when traveling. I don’t know why that is.

I am like Rebekah above, I don’t deal with girly stuff because LAZY. But yeah, it is a breath of fresh air reading a blogger telling someone to go to France if they want to. There is far too many people telling others where to go and what to do and that they did not experience a place because they did this instead of that. MY trip, MY decision on what to do.

March 12, 2015 at 5:33 pm

I guess people get so passionate about their travels that they want others to do the exact same things as them? I don’t know, but it really is crazy to me when people get bossy about how to travel. Like you said, MY trip, MY decision!

Grace | The Beauty of Everywhere says

March 9, 2015 at 6:38 pm

This is such a great post! Absolutely love your attitude to travel. I was saying to a couple of female friends recently how sad it is that we feel the need to tone down the girl-ness when travelling. You can still climb mountains, go kayaking and backpack solo into the unknown with a bit of lipstick on!

March 12, 2015 at 5:29 pm

I definitely used to try to tone down my girly-ness, until I traveled with a friend who always wears makeup and realized that, oh wait, there’s no rule saying no makeup while backpacking, haha.

Victoria@ The British Berliner says

March 10, 2015 at 2:04 am

Love it! You’ve been to some amazing places and you should be proud. 🙂 There’s nothing wrong with travelling with a boy from time to time. In fact, it’s quite fun. You go girl!

March 12, 2015 at 5:35 pm

It is fun traveling with a boy!

Amanda says

March 10, 2015 at 7:09 am

Love love LOVE this. It’s crazy how people tend to stereotype women no matter where you go in the world – and it definitely extends to us traveling ladies, too! You keep doin’ your thang, girl – I love reading your stories!

March 13, 2015 at 10:15 pm

It is crazy how people love to stereotype, and crazier still when women are doing it to other women. It’s would just be so much easier to be supportive, or at least withhold judgements!

CL (RealGunners) says

March 10, 2015 at 3:08 pm

It’s strange to read about a girl confessing that she travels like a girl. Like, how is that even a confession?

I absolutely agree that there’s no “right” way to travel. As long as you’re traveling, then you’re a traveler!

March 13, 2015 at 10:16 pm

Right?! It shouldn’t be a confession, but there are so many female travelers who seem to shun being too girly. So silly!

Miquel says

March 10, 2015 at 3:27 pm

I LOVE THIS! I feeling like belting out a Beyoncé song after reading this, but I may or may not currently be at work. You go girl!

I would LOVE if this provoked a work time Beyoncé performance!

Isabel says

March 15, 2015 at 7:59 pm

I absolutely loved reading this post! I love your sense of humour, and your refreshing perspective. I was just wondering, how did you find host families to stay with? Did you organise it prior or did you meet people there?

March 19, 2015 at 4:16 am

Usually I would just turn up in a town and wander around asking people where I could stay – in Central Asia often towns don’t have guest houses, so people would just point me in the direction of a home stay.

March 15, 2015 at 11:20 pm

This is probably one of the most refreshing blogs I’ve read in ages.

I feel like people get so drawn into competing when travelling. “Oh, you travelled Europe but you didn’t go to Albania? Pfff, what sort of traveller are you?”

I’m totally all about travelling in your own style – and you’ve summed this up perfectly. Travelling with nail polish and listening to Taylor Swift? My kinda girl! xxxxx

Ahhh a kindred spirit! It’s nice to hear that so many other people are sick of competitiveness with traveling too – it’s so senseless!

becky hutner says

March 16, 2015 at 12:09 pm

well bon appetit indeed! you just keep doing your thing, silvia. funny how we humans have to have opinions on EVERYTHING down to how others should be spending their leisure time. (or is real travel is even leisure at all?! perhaps serious backpacker thinks not.)

March 19, 2015 at 4:17 am

Travel as leisure, whaaat?! Haha serious backpacker would definitely disagree.

Katie Featherstone says

March 23, 2015 at 9:48 pm

Great post! Thank-you! Girls (and boys!) can travel however the like as long as you are being culturally sensitive and enjoying themselves. I’m really glad you’ve travelled through some of those countries yourself- I use blogs like yours to reassure my family whenever I want to go somewhere a little ‘dodgy’. “Such a girl” is a worrying statement really- is it supposed to be an insult or compliment?!

March 24, 2015 at 5:43 am

Yeah, I really wasn’t sure how to take being called “such a girl” but… decided to embrace it? I guess she just meant that I wasn’t the stereotypical backpacker, ha.

Laura @ Bottled Air says

May 30, 2015 at 10:33 am

“Wait, you’ve been in Kyrgyzstan for three weeks and you still haven’t gone hiking?!” How could you?! Haha. Sometimes I thin we ust generay suc at traveing, because we constanty miss famous tourist attractions because we chose to ust hang out with ocas instead.

Ha and 2 years ago (I was cycling from Thailand to China at the time) this group of travelers in Cambodia sort of ignored me because I was wearing a pink dress, apparently they thought I was on a gap year (???) and wasn’t cool enough for them or something. When they realized that I was actually doing something ‘cool’ they all came to talk to me which was sooo awkward! I don’t like how some travellers can be so arrogant and judgmental – why can’t everyone just travel the way they want?!

June 11, 2015 at 11:45 am

Hahaha duh Laura, pink dresses are only appropriate for gap year students, didn’t you know? That’s hilarious, and ridiculous (obviously).

Annika says

January 22, 2016 at 8:09 am

I was about to feel quite ‘offended’ when I read the title of this post. Oh no, are we still not over this cliche of doing something ‘like a girl’, I thought. But I absolutely loved your sentiment. I myself have written about the concept of what it means to travel as a girl in this world and that there are so many advantages to it, why would we only look at some shortcomings? As well as the concept of there is no right or wrong way to travel (at least when you travel respectfully and sustainable I think) – especially if you get into the age old debate of tourist versus traveler, it always seem to be the travelers – or in your case the hardcore backpackers – that are a lot less tolerant than the tourist who enjoy the Eiffel Tower. Thanks for sharing this – I congratulate you about the balls you have and ate 😉

January 28, 2016 at 4:54 pm

I’m glad you read past the title! And to hear someone else sharing my feelings about this whole “like a girl business,” ahh. Laughed out loud at the balls comment, haha.

Michelle says

January 27, 2016 at 1:13 am

Love you’re point “I’m such a girl”! I often get this reaction as well and don’t apologize for shocking people that “such a girl” is traveling throughout Latin America. Good for you and keep rocking it girl.

January 28, 2016 at 4:57 pm

Love hearing of other girly girls shocking people with their traveling ways, haha.

Melissa says

March 10, 2018 at 2:08 pm

Hi Silvia, thanks for writing this article. Yes, I agree so much with what you mentioned in the article. My absolute favorite paragraph that resonates with me the most is this:

“You don’t have to run everyday and be able to lift 200 kg to travel through Kyrgyzstan, you don’t have to love partying and look awesome in a bikini to travel through Thailand, and you don’t have to be a vegetarian obsessed with yoga to travel through India.”

That is just so beautifully written. I love it soo much.

April 29, 2019 at 11:35 am

LOL! I travel like such a girl and would rather go to food and flower markets than tourist destinations (though I’m currently really lusting to go to Rijksmuseum on my upcoming trip to Amsterdam, alas, my travelling companion isn’t). I also take care to dress and behave with cultural sensitivity, hence beeing the only westerner not kicked out of the temple in Phnom Penh during the preparations for the king’s funeral.

May 4, 2020 at 5:14 pm

I travel like a girl too!! Well, actually no I don’t. I travel like myself. Those “serious” backpackers are one of the very few aspects of staying in hostels that I hate. For me, just being in a country is already a big part of the experience. I am generally delighted with myself when I make it into a country I have never been to before and had to work up the courage to visit. All the stuff I do there are add ons in my mind. I like to just pick and choose as I notice what interests me. Sometimes those “serious” backpackers want to point out that I am not taking a systematic approach and could do my trip more efficiently if I did and sometimes they even go on to detail their own “superior” trip. Seems to me like their way is a good way to get a bad case of travel burn out, not what I want and that is for sure. Rushing through the experiences would ruin travel for me.

December 1, 2020 at 5:44 pm

I love your approach to travel and life <3

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Once a full-time nomad, I'm now trying to find a balance between continuing to explore off the beaten path places around the world while also building a home in Norway. Want to know more? Head to my About page !

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Travel “Like a Girl”: Why You Shouldn’t Be Afraid to Travel Alone

Deciding to embark on a long journey can be a difficult decision, especially if you have never done it before. Planning on doing it alone, is just plain terrifying. But it’s terrifying like in the way you feel when your small car is clinking up a rickety roller coaster. It’s quieter than you imagined and you suddenly forget all the reasons you had used to convince yourself to get on in the first place. You feel a small panic start to manifest in your chest. If there was a way to stop and get out, you would. But then you look around and realize no one else is worried. So, you take a deep breath and wait for the drop.

The year before I applied to teach in Thailand , I had applied to teach English in France but had been rejected for the program. I remember feeling deflated and absolute sadness for weeks after I got my rejection email. I had so badly wanted to live abroad and after coming to terms with France, I still had this urge to get up and go. I was not content to put my desire to travel to the side just because one country didn’t want me. That’s why I started to look at Southeast Asia.

Because of the emotions I experienced after getting dumped by the French government, I never really doubted my decision to leave for Thailand while I was waiting for my drop. My family was excited for me, my boyfriend was excited for me and a lot of my friends wanted to plan a trip to visit before I even left. I had all the support in the world, which made applying for another teaching program that much easier. It was the reaction of loose acquaintances, very extended family and family friends that started to make me second guess my upcoming departure date.

photo by Bridget Shrode

I would tell them, excitedly, “I’m leaving for Thailand in a few months!” and I would only get concerned questions from them. “Are you sure that’s safe?” “Isn’t it dangerous there?” “Your boyfriend is going with you, right?” It might be important to note that I’m from the suburbs of Chicago, and currently live in the city of Chicago. I was getting these questions about my safety from people who lived in a city where it’s more likely to get robbed than it is to successfully hail a cab.

It’s normal for your parents to be worried about you all the time about everything. If I tell my mom I was out until 1 a.m. the night before, the first words out of her mouth are usually, “You really shouldn’t do that, that’s not safe.” But why was it that people I barely knew were suddenly so concerned for my safety? They don’t care when I’m out until 1 a.m. but they care that I’m traveling alone. It was enough to put that seed of doubt in my mind that I shouldn’t be doing it. Why?

I wasn’t alone in getting these responses.

In an article written for Thought Catalogue titled, “ Why Women Should Travel Alone, ” writer Koty Neelis says, “Solo male travelers are admired for their bravery and adventurous personality, and they’re encouraged to travel alone at a young age. Solo female travelers, however, are often met with judgment, concerned tones, and raised eyebrows.”

Once I got to Thailand and started talking to my fellow women travelers, I realized we all had pretty similar stories when it came to the everyday reaction about our plans. Kayla Armgardt, from Albuquerque, New Mexico was in my orientation group last November. We were placed in the same school and ended up living together, and this subject came up a lot between us. We both had boyfriends back home, and shared frustrations over those who questioned why in the world we would ever leave them. As if it was so insane that a woman should leave the comfort of a relationship in search of a challenge, of a different perspective, of learning to be alone and being okay with it.

Kayla said, “Right before I left to teach in Thailand, I ran into a family friend whose daughter had just left to teach abroad in Asia with her fiancée. I still vividly remember her wary, crinkled forehead as she expressed how brave I was to be going to Thailand all by myself. Yet the tone of her voice didn’t convey admiration for my strength, but rather a profound sense of anxiety for my decision. Looking back, the conversation really irked me. I thought to myself that I don’t need a man to always be by my side. Why does our society deem females as unfit solo travelers?”

Was it jealousy? Were these worried strangers realizing that they, themselves, do not have the emotional means to embark on such an adventure so they are putting their own insecurities onto me? Or, do I dare say, that their concern is just a mask for the kind of sexism we, as a society, have been conditioned to believe.

Does their reasoning even matter?

After contemplating these responses for months and months, I’ve come to the conclusion that the answer is no. People are always going to hate on what you do in life, whether it’s what kind of sandwich you eat for lunch or it’s the decision to drop everything to explore the world. The people who matter will be there to support you, but ultimately you should do what you want to do.

It was the memory of that constant itch and the immense sadness I felt when I found out I wasn’t going to France that drove me to get on the Thai roller coaster and stay on. A few times I felt that maybe I wasn’t making the right decision and maybe I shouldn’t go, but then I forced myself to remember how I felt after getting rejected the first time. Those feelings reaffirmed why I applied in the first place and that if I didn’t go, it would be a decision I would regret completely for the rest of my life.

There are so many positive aspects of solo travel that you shouldn’t miss out on because you’re a woman.

Traveling alone gives you the chance to explore the world without the influence of people you already know. You will learn who you are without being around familiar faces and grow your independence.

Yes, as a woman traveling solo, you do need to take extra precautions. It would be nice if we, like men, didn’t have to worry about violence against women, but that’s not the world we live in. It is smart to have a set of guidelines for yourself to help keep you safe. This includes (but is not limited to):

Don’t post your location on social media while you are there.

Wait until you leave that café to post a pic with the geotag.

Don’t assume your hostel separates people by gender.

If you want to stay in a female-only room, ask if that option is available. Just because a hostel asks for your gender when you check in, doesn’t mean that information is for placing you in a room.

Remember, you don’t have to answer questions.

As women, we are trained to be polite in all circumstances, especially when meeting new people. But if a stranger is asking questions like, “who are you traveling with?” or “where are you staying?” you don’t have to answer. Get rid of the notion that you have to be nice.

As a woman who has traveled alone, I feel the need to help other women do the same. It was scary, exciting, lonely, enriching and a million other things at once, but most of all, it was the best experience of my life and I urge everyone, but especially women, to do it, too. Kayla Armgardt agrees, “If you are a female, thinking about traveling alone, stop thinking you are a female wanting to travel alone. You are a human being. And a human being with a hardy spirit and heart at that. It’s hard to travel alone regardless of who you are, so admire that you recognize the strength that lies within you!”

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What They Don’t Tell You About Traveling With a Girl

Home » Blog » Travel » What They Don’t Tell You About Traveling With a Girl

If you’re planning on traveling long-term with your dream girl, you’ll want to read this before you board the airplane. I’m sharing a few words of warning and have some advice you won’t want to miss!

Having been married for only 3 years, I’m by no means an expert on being a husband. But after traveling for 10-and-a-half months nonstop, and being together 24/7 with this (incredible, fantastic and beautiful) woman, I should be granted at least another year or two of marriage experience. 

We’ve already told you about how overseas travel will make your relationship stronger , and while that is  true, we haven’t really talked about what happens on a day-to-day basis that doesn’t make it into our Instagram posts .

Any fellas out there that are planning a long term trip with your girl (friend/fiancé/wife/wanna-be-lover), I’ve got some things to warn you about. Plus, I have some sage advice that’ll make your travels with your lady even better!

Be Patient 

She will want to take pictures of every meal, so you’ll have to wait to eat your food. (Kind of like a puppy with a treat on its nose.)

There are cute cafés in every town. Get ready to go to ALL of them. 

You will grow closer than ever before

Always hold hands when crossing the street. Especially when you’re in Vietnam !

You’ll learn to protect each other. You’ll protect her from grope-y men during Holi and she’ll save you from scammers.

You’ll always get to be the shoulder she lays on during buses, trains and planes. And you’ll love every moment of being that close (except when neither of you has showered in days).

You will get to have breakfast, lunch and dinner with her. Every meal is a date. 

You will get to try new things for the first time together. You’ll always remember those moments.

Traveling is learning

You’ll become really good at duct tape fixes, untangling necklaces and back rubs.

You’ll learn the beauty secrets women never tell you.  Do you know what a cuticle is and how to make them look nice?  Yeah, I didn’t either. And did you know how many ways coconut oil can be used? It’s an infinite amount. And don’t get me started on dry shampoo…

You’ll realize she is right more than you’d like to admit. Like the time I wanted to go to the all-you-can-eat pasta buffet and she said it was a bad idea. We went, I ate way too much…and I was out of commission for the next few days. Now, every time I hear “buffet”, my brain automatically thinks “BAD”.

If your lady is anything like mine, you’ll get really good at not only packing your bag, but hers too. Let’s just say that Tetris is not everyone’s forte (and it’s definitely not Katie’s). She’s so bad in fact, I nicknamed her big pack “lumpy”. The only problem is that after I pack it for her she says, “Wow, I have so much space now to buy things!” *Face palm*

She’ll push your limits and make you do things that you wouldn’t otherwise do. Like the time Katie convinced me to go to nude baths in Korea , Japan and Turkey. And I’ll admit, I liked it… 

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She will always be there (for good or bad).

She will be with you 24/7… which means she’ll know about your toilet time, what happens when you get sick, and she’ll find out your fears (yaks and horses).

Every step of your journey is done together. Everything. Playing cards, getting sick, finding a bed to sleep in… and even accomplishing bucket list adventures you’ve been dreaming about for years.

Traveling can be stressful, so here’s some advice

During our first year of marriage, my grandpa sat me down and told me to memorize this phase:  “I know dear, I’m sorry. It’s all my fault.”  It really does work, fellas.

It sounds weird, but trust me when I say this: If you’re traveling long-term, plan a vacation from your vacation. Go on a picnic or see a movie. Rent an apartment and cook a big meal while drinking wine. Go for a run. Pick a travel themed movie to watch from this HUGE list . Do normal things every once in a while. Long-term travel can be exhausting and you’ll both need to slow down a bit. 

After a while you’ll realize you never get a full night’s sleep in a dorm bed – not because of the noises or smelly roommates, but because you don’t get to wake up next to the person you love most. Take my advice and splurge on a private room once in a while . (Or every night if your budget allows.)

Ice cream fixes all problems. When there is no problem to be solved, go get ice cream. I’m a strong believer that it prevents problems too.

It’s all about the little things

Once you pass security at the airport, use the sample cologne at the duty free shops to make her cling to you for the entire flight.  You might just need a little smell-good after certain countries.  Ahem… India, I’m talking about you… 

If you’re taller than she is, act like you allow her to have the window seat so she can get a better view. (But realistically you want the aisle to get more leg room.)

You’ll do anything for her

Sometimes photos don’t turn out right, and you will have to go back to iconic places to get the right one. This means you’ll have to wake up at 4:30 a.m. and climb that stupid 560-meter hill when the humidity is at 95%… AGAIN! 

When I leave the hotel, all I carry is my phone, wallet, and sometimes the GoPro. She may want her DSLR camera, extra batteries, scarf, jacket, Chapstick, sarong, and probably a handful of other things. And carrying the bag full of stuff is not a big deal at all… Really, I don’t mind it. The thing is that I get the back sweats. And I get it bad. Now you know why I wear so many tank tops. 

And you’ll (hopefully) realize that she’s the best travel partner you could ask for.

Katie is the only one who will laugh at my lame jokes. She is the only one I want to be stuck on an 18-hour bus with. And every place I go is paradise because she’s by my side. 

If you’re thinking about traveling with your special someone, take in every moment as you make memories together. (Oh, and be sure to pack lots of extra shirts for the inevitable back sweats and memorize the phrase,  “I know dear, I’m sorry. It’s all my fault.”)

You might also like…

20 Questions to Ask Your Partner Before Moving into a Campervan

10 Ways Overseas Travel Makes Couples Stronger

Romantic Getaways & Honeymoon Destinations For Every Type of Travel

Traveling with your girlfriend or wife soon? Save this article to Pinterest!

We want to hear from you!

Have you been traveling with your girl (friend/fiancé/wife/wanna-be-lover)? How has it been?

Do you have any questions? Comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!

Comments (13) on “ What They Don’t Tell You About Traveling With a Girl ”

Haha, sounds like we have some pretty great ladies in our lives. I’ll have to check out your site. Cheers!

Well said. I have travelled extensively with my wife of 23 years. She makes every place more special, she goes places she hasn’t heard of and does things she’d never dream of – and we do it all together.

I love the phrase, "Yes dear" and now I am trying to use your "I know dear, I’m sorry. It’s all my fault." I am certain it will make things even better.

Thanks, Glenn

Thanks Glenn! Sounds like you have a wonderful marriage. And be careful, she might catch on to the new phrase.

This is so sweet and made me all teary eyed! Traveling with my boyfriend has made our relationship so much better!

I know!! When I first saw he published an article with that title, I was a little nervous haha. But it turned out to be so sweet! Glad you enjoyed it too 🙂

This article is so SPOT ON! Traveling for long periods of time with your partner definitely does teach you so much about them so quickly, whether it’s things you want to know or not, but it also does bring you so much closer to them than ever before. I loved reading every sentence of this article and found myself agreeing and laughing along with so many parts!

Thanks Sophie! Ben had fun writing this article, and it was pretty fun for me to read haha! I might need to take just a few less food photos 😉

I LOVE this!

Aww, thanks Melanie!

Awww, you two are such a sweet couple! <3 I loved your post. As a girl, I identified myself with loooots of situations described here, like the food pics part (my boyfriend does exactly the same face that Ben is doing in the photos ahah) or wanting to return to a place just to take beautiful pictures. I will have to share this with my boyfriend.

You’re so sweet, Lara! So happy I’m not the only one who takes pictures of my food and drags Ben back to places for anotherrrrrr round of pictures haha! Good thing we have patient guys 😉

Wonderful blog…great thoughts from an incredible couple on a lifetime journey together!!!

Aww, thanks Sheri!

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Sign up for essence newsletters the keep the black women at the forefront of conversation., a black girl’s guide to napa valley.

Napa Valley has been an opulent bucket-list destination for many years. Also known as Wine Country, the valley is roughly an hour outside of San Francisco and Sacramento, and is a popular destination for unlimited wine tasting from some of the best vineyards and vintners across the globe. It’s the prime destination for girls trips, engagements, as well as quick weekend getaways. 

As wine tourism is a large economic driver for the area, in recent years, the wine country is attempting a demographic shift, wanting to skew much younger, expand their nationwide reach, and diversify their offerings to bring more people to the valley. “Many people make Napa Valley a bucket-list destination, and we really want to change that,” says Jenny Toomer, the General Manager of River Terrace Inn. 

Some may find the price point of a trip to Napa to be a deterrent, but it’s more affordable than many would presume. However, the rather glaring reality is that more than anything, Black women should experience the luxe Cali destination.  A visitor report on Napa found that Black people make up only 2.7 percent of the annual visitors to the wine country – and the presence of that statistic was felt. However, Napa Valley is both attainable and approachable for Black women in particular. 

Today, Napa Valley embraces the opportunity to welcome fresh visitors, inviting them to immerse themselves in the myriad delights the wine country has. To close the widened gap of Black people visiting Napa, we’ve compiled a Black girl’s guide to the region, to help navigate where to eat, play, and stay. 

Napa Valley Wine Train

One of the premiere offerings in Napa is the Napa Valley Wine Train, which provides both a picturesque view of the wine country, while also helping break down the stigma and pretentiousness that wine varietals are associated with. 

Nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown Napa, the Wine Train stands as the epitome of wine country’s most unforgettable culinary journey, invoking the timeless allure of luxury rail travel through its newly restored rail cars. The inaugural clean energy locomotive of the Napa Valley Wine Train, affectionately named the “1864” in homage to the rail line’s inception year, heralds a new era of sustainable travel. Boasting a cutting-edge, American-made EPA Tier-4-compliant engine crafted by Rolls-Royce and orchestrated by the esteemed Knoxville Locomotive Works, the “1864” symbolizes the train’s commitment to the environment and innovation.

Experiences

On the Wine Train, there’s a multitude of experiences to choose from. I took both the Legacy Experience and the Vista Dome experience. The best part of the wine train is that you’re joined by seasoned sommeliers who can recommend the best wine pairings for your meal, as well as suggestions on wine flights including selections from Far Niente, Opus One, and Beaulieu Vineyard’s Georges de Latour Private Reserve. 

Legacy Experience

Sign up for the Legacy experience if you’re more adventurous – starting in the morning, the train makes stops in St. Helena for two seated tastings at some of the most popular wineries in the area, including seated tastings at the iconic Charles Krug and V. Sattui , as well as a stop at the popular ‘Welcome to Napa Valley’ sign. At Charles Krug you’ll be whisked away into a winery that was modeled after Tuscan architecture with tastes of great California wines and scenic views of the countryside that make you question if you’re actually in Napa Valley. Here you’ll get tastes of their 2023 limited release rosé, 2019 family reserve generations as well as their 2019 limited release malbec. With fruits strong in the region, each wine has notes of different berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and even boysenberries.

At V. Sattui, you also get some of those same gorgeous views, however here, you’re met with even more approachability – you’ll see fellow Napa Valley visitors casually sitting outside enjoying a glass of wine and the beautiful weather. The seated tasting includes three of their best wines, a 2022 Los Carneros Chardonnay, 2021 School House Zinfandel, and a 2019 Vittorio’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. As an added bonus, Sattui saves the best for last, and allows guests to get a taste of their Madeira, a Solera-made, wood-aged wine, fortified with brandy. Strong yet sweet, the dessert-wine has flavors of caramel, toffee, and orange zest. Outside of just purchasing one of your favorite wines at Sattui, the winery is complete with its own market filled with artisan cheeses, meats, breads, and chocolates (just in case you are looking to take some back home). 

Pro-tip: Come hydrated and prepared to drink. The Legacy experience offers a three course meal and dessert, but to make it throughout the day, you’ll need a healthy balance of food and water to conquer the day.

Vista Dome Experience

Take the Vista Dome lunch experience if you’re looking to have the awe-inspiring views of the wine country without ever leaving the rail car. Here is where you can indulge a little bit more and really get into the wine. Add the Vista Dome experience to your itinerary if you’re not looking to pack your day, but still get to enjoy some of the wine country’s best. The experience begins a little later in the day, so you have ample time to embrace slowness before tackling another boozy afternoon. 

The plus to this experience is that the newly renovated rail car makes for the best photo shoot with your girlfriends. There’s multiple photo-worthy areas that best capture the beauty of Napa Valley on this train. 

Similar to the Legacy experience, Vista Dome also includes a three course meal with dessert, and you have downtime to socialize with friends before you disembark at the train station. If you’re lucky enough, you’ll be celebrating alongside other guests who are celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or even engagements–even more reason to say cheers.

Pro-tip: Vista Dome is where you should dress to impress. More laid back than the legacy experience, you’ll get to eat, drink and be merry, and also pose for the camera.

If you’re a morning person, a hot air balloon ride through Napa Valley is an absolute must to add to your itinerary. You’ll be up as early as 5 AM in the morning, but the lack of sleep will be well worth it when you take in a breathtaking view of the rolling hills wine country. You’ll pass over the coastline fields of crops, see animals grazing plus the gorgeous mountains that overlook the valley. You’ll spend roughly an hour in the air, and get in-depth insights from your tour guide who will give you the inside scoop on all the crops being grown in the area, plus the experiments and happenings on different fields that look over the Napa. 

Pro-tip: Dress warmly, as all hot air balloons take flight early in the morning.

Where To Stay

If you want to stay close to the different experiences Napa has to offer, the River Terrace Inn is your best bet. A Noble House property, the hotel is a sister estate to the Wine Train, so it makes sense that the two are across the street from one another. The quaint property has stunning views of the valley from anywhere in the hotel, so even when you’re not out and about exploring, you still get to take in the beauty of the valley. If you’re looking to take part in some of the activities Napa has to offer, the inn is at the nexus of tourism. It’s at the train station where you can sign up for train experiences, hot air balloon rides and more.

Inside the hotel are gorgeous hotel suites that just feel like they were intentionally curated for and by women. Spacious rooms include vanity mirrors, televisions where you can use Chromecast to watch your favorite shows, bathroom mirrors that connect to bluetooth and a separate vanity mirror to prep for a day full of wine tasting. 

Eat & Drink

You would think that after dining on the wine train, you would be all wined out–but there’s still so much more to the wine country. Vineyards are just one facet to Napa. There are also collectives that provide tastings for wines that you won’t get on the wine train, like the wines at the Vintner’s Collective, which is a quaint tasting room that maintains the integrity of the original building–a converted brothel. Inside, you find a select group of small, family-owned Napa wineries. While many other tasting rooms will offer some of their most popular wines to offer, Vintner’s is a great boutique place to zero in one of your favorite varieties. It’s great for a crash course in wine, and you can take your skills back to your hometown, when it comes to tasting, analyzing, and pairing wines. 

For a casual dinner, Kitchen Door is just a stones throw away from Vintners Collective, and a certainly walkable dining spot. If you’re planning out your girls trip, Kitchen Door is a must stop after a day of wine tasting. It’s great to soak up all the delicious wine, and the tasty shareable apps such as the garlic cheesy bread, teriyaki wings, and deviled eggs. The menu is mixed with a variety of cuisine, where you can find delicious Italian offerings as well as pad Thai and Korean barbecue. You’ll certainly leave happily stuffed.

As a Black girl in Napa, you can’t visit Napa without paying a visit to some of the Black-owned stalwarts that are making waves in the vino industry. We recommend Vin En Noir, which features minority owned, and women owned winemakers. Expect snacks to pair with your wine like charcuterie and popcorn. Moreover, their selection of rosé is unparalleled. 

If you’re looking to break away from the wine a bit and opt for cocktails instead, Wine Girl Napa Valley is where you’ll get the girly Instagram aesthetic you’re looking for, plus the boozy Sunday Funday brunch vibe all under one roof.

Wander Like A Local

The heart of Napa’s infrastructure is built like an old town, with family run restaurants and buildings that have stood the test of time, which adds to the character of the wine destination. When you’re not tasting the country’s best wines, you can peruse through the town, it’s where I stumbled upon Oxbow Public Market , a food hall that has a variety of goods from Jewish cuisine to fresh preserve and honey for your next charcuterie board, a bookstore (and so many more treasures). A lover of books, I stumbled on a small haven with everything from science fiction, to encyclopedias of Banksy, and even autobiographical works on artists like Tupac. 

At Oxbow, I also found Model Bakery, a local spot beloved by locals and visitors alike. Based on the number of people devouring their baked goods from outside the shop, it’s a safe bet for breakfast. I tried the chocolate croissant, and the bakery truly lives up to the hype.

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U.S. tourist faces 12 years in prison after taking ammunition to Turks and Caicos

An Oklahoma man faces up to 12 years in prison on a Caribbean island after customs officials found ammunition in his luggage.

Ryan Watson traveled to Turks and Caicos with his wife, Valerie, to celebrate his 40th birthday on April 7. They went with two friends who had also turned 40.

The vacation came to an abrupt end when airport staff members found a zip-close bag containing bullets in the couple's carry-on luggage. Watson said it was hunting ammunition he had accidentally brought with him — but under a strict law in Turks and Caicos, a court may still impose a mandatory 12-year sentence.

"They were hunting ammunition rounds that I use for whitetail deer," Watson told NBC Boston in an interview conducted last week that aired after their first court appearance Tuesday.

"I recognized them, and I thought, 'Oh, man, what a bonehead mistake that I had no idea that those were in there,'" he said.

The couple were arrested and charged with possession of ammunition. Authorities seized their passports and explained the penalties they faced.

Valerie Watson said in the interview: "When I heard that, I immediately was terrified, because I was like we can't both be in prison for 12 years. We have kids at home, and this is such an innocent mistake."

The charges against her were dropped, and she returned home to Oklahoma City on Tuesday after the court hearing to be reunited with her two young children.

"Our goal is to get Ryan home, because we can’t be a family without Dad," she said.

The couple also spoke about the financial burden of a much longer-than-planned trip. "This is something that we may never recover from," Ryan Watson said.

The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a warning to travelers in September about a law that strongly prohibits possession of firearms or ammunition in Turks and Caicos, an overseas British territory southeast of the Bahamas that is a popular vacation spot.

It said: "We wish to remind all travelers that declaring a weapon in your luggage with an airline carrier does not grant permission to bring the weapon into TCI [Turks and Caicos Islands] and will result in your arrest."

The embassy added: "If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, we will not be able to secure your release from custody."

The embassy and the government in Turks and Caicos did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The same thing happened to another American, Bryan Hagerich, of Pennsylvania, who was arrested after ammunition was found in his luggage before he tried to board a flight out of Turks and Caicos in February. He said he accidentally left it in his bag.

Hagerich was on a family vacation with his wife and two young children but has now been in the country for 70 days. He spent eight days in prison before he posted bail.

"It’s incredibly scary. You know, you just don’t know what the next day may bring — you know, what path this may take," Hagerich told NBC Boston.

"You know, it’s certainly a lot different than packing your bags and going away with your family for a few days. It’s been the worst 70 days of my life," he said.

Hagerich, once a professional baseball player, was drafted by the Florida Marlins in the MLB 2007 June amateur draft from the University of Delaware.

His case goes to trial May 3.

Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.