The Rise of Girls’ Trips: A Modern Adventure for Adult Women

One writer takes a look at how the girls’ trip has evolved, as more adult women prioritize travel with friends.

3 June 2024

Waking up to the sound of laughter among friends on holiday creates an atmosphere brimming with nostalgia and warmth. Stories and anecdotes from the previous night can awaken even the most sleep-deprived souls, stirring fond memories.

This vibrant feeling returned during a recent journey with eight friends in our thirties to a stunning villa in the beautiful Italian region of Umbria. We favored cozy chats over a night out, enjoying delightful meals and dancing to music that defined our youth. The next morning, we greeted the day refreshed, ready for sightseeing and wine tasting—an experience vastly different from the recovery after party nights of our earlier days.

Clearly, girls’ trips—which once seemed reserved for youth—are now defining a new era. Statistics reveal that women significantly influence the travel market, with 64% of travelers globally identifying as female. Furthermore, in 2023, travel companies focusing on women-only clientele have surged by 230%. Such trends suggest a promising forecast, as it’s estimated that women will spend $125 billion on travel in 2024.

Societal changes, such as women remaining single longer and starting families later, contribute to the ongoing popularity of these getaways. Villa rental companies report that bookings from women-only groups typically involve guests averaging 47 years of age. An increased interest in exploring less conventional destinations highlights a desire to escape the everyday grind and deepen connections with one another.

The essence of a girls’ trip lies in nurturing friendships and facilitating bonding, carving out precious time from busy lives. This nurturing environment acts as an extended adult sleepover, a concept now popularized on social media where women regularly enjoy gatherings at each other’s homes, often leaving partners behind. A notable example is the emergence of co-housing communities exclusively for women over 50, promoting companionship in a serene living environment.

For many, girls’ trips have always served as a refuge during tough times. Iconic narratives, like those from the beloved Sex and the City, illustrate the profound impact of a spontaneous getaway to reclaim joy and camaraderie. Similarly, the classic film Crossroads, where three friends embark on a road trip, emphasizes how shared adventures resonate and nurture deep conversations, allowing for the airing of vulnerabilities and aspirations.

Today’s travelers prioritize more than meaningful chats. They seek unique experiences, often venturing into activities previously associated with couples. Whether it’s reserving a luxury villa, embarking on a city escapade, or immersing in food and culture, women seem eager to share these moments with their friends. For example, recent cottage rentals in Somerset reveal that nearly two-thirds of visitors are female, often traveling with friends from different life stages.

The interests of these women encompass more than just leisure; they seek knowledge and experiences. Many engage in culinary and wine education, actively participating in the local culture while enjoying leisure activities like yoga and sunset picnics. In popular areas like Devon and Cornwall, groups of young women frequently traverse scenic paths, further showcasing their adventurous spirit.

As travel trends shift, there’s noticeable demand for structured and sophisticated getaways among women. Tour operators have reported an increase in tailored experiences designed specifically for female travelers. Destinations like Cape Town see a surge in interest as groups seek upscale dining and unique nightlife, showing that the craving for adventure knows no bounds.

The rise of elegant pre-wedding retreats, characterized by a request for upscale experiences over traditional themes, exemplifies this shift. Women aim to celebrate friendships in unique ways, prioritizing quality time together over conventional expectations.

Ultimately, girls’ trips serve as a refreshing counter to societal pressures, allowing women to embrace adventures simply for the joy of friendship. As I envision future trips with loved ones, I hold onto the hope that our shared adventures will continue to thrive, even into our golden years.