As I approach my 50th birthday this January, I’ve found myself reflecting deeply on my journey and the paths we, as women 50 and over, are carving in the world of travel. A recent article from Carolyn Ray of Journey Women “The Influence of Mature Solo Women Over 50 in Travel” resonated profoundly with me. It highlighted an undeniable truth: women over 50 are not just participants in the travel industry; we are its pioneers, trailblazers, and innovators.
For too long, the travel industry has overlooked us. Seventy percent of women over 50 feel undervalued and ignored by an industry that seems to cater predominantly to the young and adventurous. When I search for travel photos, I am inundated with images of young women performing daring balancing acts on the edges of pools and cliffs, all for the perfect Instagram shot. It’s disheartening to see travel reduced to a numbers game—counting countries rather than truly engaging with the cultures they claim to immerse themselves in.
But we, the mature women travelers, are different. Our travels are not about tallying destinations but about understanding ourselves in the world and connecting deeply with others. We seek to inspire our own youth and support fellow women on their journeys. Our adventures are rich with intention, purpose, and a profound sense of curiosity.
Travel, for us, is a journey of the soul. It’s about learning, growing, and embracing new experiences with open hearts and minds. When we travel, we dive deep into the essence of the places we visit, forging genuine connections and creating lasting memories. We aren’t just tourists; we are cultural explorers, eager to understand and appreciate the nuances of every new environment we step into.
As women over 50, we bring a wealth of life experience to our travels. We’ve navigated the complexities of careers, families, and personal growth. We know what it means to persevere, to rise above challenges, and to cherish the beauty of life’s journey. This resilience and wisdom enrich our travel experiences, making them more meaningful and transformative.
Many of us are at a point of transition, whether it’s contemplating retirement, adjusting to an empty nest, or embarking on new personal endeavors. These transitions can be challenging, but they also open doors to new opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Travel becomes a powerful tool in this process, offering a fresh perspective and a renewed sense of purpose.
I remember a recent trip where I spent time in a small village, sitting with a local woman as she made bread over an open fire. She kneaded the dough with a practiced hand, her movements steady and sure. We didn’t speak the same language, but we communicated through smiles, gestures, and shared laughter. She showed me how to shape the loaves, her eyes crinkling at the corners as she guided my hands. In that simple act of making bread together, I felt a deep connection—a reminder of the universal bonds that unite us as women. It was in those moments that I truly felt the power of travel—its ability to bridge gaps, foster understanding, and build a global sisterhood.
In my own life, I’ve faced challenges that have shaped who I am today. From balancing the demands of a career and family to navigating personal setbacks and triumphs, great loss, death and great joy, each experience has contributed to my growth. As I stand on the brink of 50, I am filled with a sense of anticipation and excitement for the adventures ahead. I know that every journey I embark on will be an opportunity to learn more about myself and the world around me.
We “women of wisdom” are also redefining what it means to be a traveler. We prioritize sustainability, ethical tourism, and giving back to the communities we visit. We support local artisans, engage in cultural exchanges, and leave a positive impact wherever we go. Our travels are not just about seeing the world but about contributing to it in meaningful ways.
In a world that often overlooks us, we are making our presence known. We are the women who inspire, who lead, and who blaze new trails. We are proving that travel knows no age limits and that our experiences are as valuable and vibrant as those of any other age group.
As I get ready to step into this new chapter of my life, I am filled with excitement and anticipation. I am ready to continue exploring, learning, and connecting. And I know that there are countless women out there, just like me, who are ready to do the same.
So, to all the incredible women over 50—let’s keep traveling, discovering, and blazing new trails. Let’s show the world the power and beauty of mature women travelers. We are here, and we are unstoppable.
In adventure, and friendship
Penny
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