Calling All Girlfriends! Check Out These Summer Girls Only Getaways

It’s a Woman’s World

By Peggy M. Goldman, Friendly Planet Travel

How to spoil yourself with the summer vacation of your dreams … without spoiling your finances

When it comes to vacationing, not every woman’s idea of luxury includes days revolving around the massage table and steam room. Today, many women want more. If that’s you, here’s how you can treat yourself this summer by planning the vacation of your dreams.

I’ve put together a list of seven incredible destinations for the ultimate “women only” vacation. These trips are filled with opportunities for excitement and experiences that revolve around you, whether that’s exploring, sunbathing, shopping, or dining.

PATAGONIA AND BUENOS AIRES: Vast, unspoiled, intensely beautiful

A popular travel industry trend is “the ultimate mother-daughter adventure.” And the ultimate adventure experience awaits you (and your daughters) in Patagonia. You’ll find soaring mountains, endless plains, lush forests, and pristine glaciers in this magnificent, “off-the-beaten-path” region that spans portions of Chile and Argentina. Strap on a pair of cramps, hold on to your ice pick, and discover new ways to support and depend on each other.

Round out your Patagonia vacation with a stop in Buenos Aires, Argentina, one of the most beautiful and culturally diverse cities in South America. Buenos Aires is romantic, picturesque, and has an incredible variety of inexpensive, yet elegant shopping. And thanks to currency conversion rates, Buenos Aires is a destination that’s easy to take advantage of in any economy.

KENYA AND TANZANIA: Lions and zebras and birds! Oh my!

Another type of the ultimate woman’s vacation is an African safari. Savvy travelers and novices alike can include Kenya and Tanzania on their list of dream destinations. Both countries are blessed with an abundance of spectacular wildlife and lavishly gorgeous, incredibly photogenic landscapes. Everywhere you go, from the teeming cities to the plains of the Masai Mara, the people are friendly and welcoming.

The tourist infrastructure in Kenya is amazing, usually offering white-glove service in regions where you’d think basics, such as running water and electricity, would be impossible to find. And the game reserves are magnificent, filled with all manner of exotic wildlife, beautiful lakes and beaches, and sweeping vistas that seem to go on forever.

HERZLIA, ISRAEL: A walk through history

For the woman who wants to mix luxurious spa days with dazzling beaches and timeless history, Herzlia, Israel is the perfect vacation target. Herzlia is a small resort town outside Tel Aviv, situated along the stunning Mediterranean coast, and just a short trip from some of the oldest cities in all of civilization. Most of the town’s hotels offer elegant spa packages, and are a short walk from the breathtaking Mediterranean Sea.

Cities such as Caesarea, Megiddo, and Tiberias, among others, are close enough for day trips, and offer fascinating glimpses into our ancient past. See the beautifully restored theater, and extensive (and ongoing) excavations of the ruins of ancient Caesarea. Travel inland to Megiddo,designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. And discover Tiberias on the Sea of Galilee.

THE ITALIAN COUNTRYSIDE: Livin’ la dolce vita

I’d be remiss if I didn’t include some of Europe’s most romantic destinations. The first is Italy. Rent a villa outside a major Italian city. Many villas include services, such as personal chefs, so you can taste the true flavors of Italy in the comfort of your vacation home. Or, find a small hotel outside of Florence or Venice.

In Italy, the possibilities are endless. Rent a car and explore the charismatic Italian countryside and its celebrated wineries. Stroll through the winding streets, ancient palaces, and busy piazzas. Or ride a gondola through torch-lit canals. Italy is also home to an abundance of world-class museums and awe-inspiring art collections. And Murano Island, off the coast of Venice, houses one of the world’s most striking collections of glassworks.

NICE, FRANCE: Capital of the Riviera

The city of Nice is located on the French Riviera in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. Blessed by a sunny, temperate climate, Nice attracts visitors from around the world. And once you’ve been there, you’ll know why. Among its many attractions are beautiful beaches, lovely seaside promenade, appealing museums, famous landmarks, and spectacular shopping.

Of all women-only stops on this around the world tour, Nice is perhaps the loveliest destinations to explore without a male counterpart (who could, potentially, lack the interest to spend an entire day browsing stalls at one of the town’s many outdoor markets). Nice’s antique stalls offer a look into Europe’s more recent cultural history with old posters, records, accessories, and clothing. It should top the list for every serious shopper.

Of course, when planning any ladies-only vacation, safety should be a priority. You don’t want to spend your time constantly looking over your shoulder. Choose a destination you would feel comfortable exploring freely. Stay away from boutique hotels, because they often lack appropriate security. Larger hotels have more (and better) security, and greater amenities. You don’t want to find you’re stuck without a hairdryer, for example.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, shopping, or relaxation, the world has it all. Meet it in a new way—ladies only—with your mother, daughter, sister, or friend.

Goldman owns and operates Friendly Planet Travel, a leading, full-service, internet-based travel company that specializes in exceptional deals on tours to exotic destinations.She has spent her life traveling around the country and the world, and 30 of those years have been dedicated to arranging the high-quality, affordable vacation packages. Goldman is a bona-fide industry expert, who is IATAN and ARC accredited. Friendly Planet Travel's blog.