Traveling alone is not new to me, even in my younger years. (Huwag na ninyong itanong how long ago!). Somehow, especially in the Philippines, or in Asia for that matter, people would look at me askance, sometimes with downright incredulous eyes. This happens almost always when they find out I am on a trip by myself.
This time, I felt somehow vindicated (or comforted) after reading an article posted online (TravelOffPath.com) by Christen Scalfano with the title “7 Reasons Why Women in Relationships Are Traveling Solo More Than Ever” which I stumbled upon. It was last updated July 1, 2023. I especially liked one of her opening statements –
“Today more than ever before, women of all relationship statuses are traveling the world without partners. While everyone else might be asking why, I’d ask – why not?”
Yes, Christen, why not indeed. I have gone on trips alone multiple times for several years now. Sometimes though, there is a nagging thought at the back of my mind that something is missing — a result no doubt of years (centuries more likely) of collective programming that, either (1) a woman is not complete without a man, or, (2) a woman is physically weaker, or (3) a man is the one in charge when outside the home. Or some such archaic belief system, of which my generation was still a part of. Not so much now. What a relief!
And then again, it could just be as simple and mundane as wanting someone else to be in charge, whatever gender. I suspect though it would be more of the latter.
According to her research, Christen says that “Online searches for “solo female travel” have increased by nearly 800% over the past few years.” Woohoo! That’s progress for you. She also says that “the largest and fastest-growing demographic of solo travelers is women over 50.”
She goes on to say that “millennial women are changing the game too. 58% of millennials worldwide are willing to travel alone, compared to 47% of older generations.”
It is refreshing and a relief to know that …….
“Attitudes about both solo female travel and the nature of relationships have evolved, creating a new space for women in relationships to travel solo more than ever.”
Christen made two other statements which resonated with me. I bet it will with many of you as well. One of them is –
“When women travel alone, they put themselves first. And that freaks people out.”
The other one is something I would put a twist to — She says —
“Solo Travel Makes Her a Better Partner”
I would go one further to say that solo travel makes one a better person. I agree with Christen that solo travelers gain “confidence, self-sufficiency and personal character development”. The bonus is that it also makes one a better partner, friend, wife, whichever the case may be. Or better still, all of the above.
You may want to read her article in full to receive the full import of her message. But this is what I found so on point —-
“Another recent survey of solo travelers in the US, Canada, UK, and Australia showed that their main motivation was overwhelmingly to see the world without waiting for others.”
Absolutely agree! Just going to the mall with 2 or more people is challenging for me. Invariably, we end up just agreeing on a time and place to meet after a specified length of time. Time is gold!
SPEAKING OF WOMEN ON THE RISE
While browsing through the fashion posts online, I made a double take when I chanced upon a video of the latest Christian Dior collection during this year’s Paris Fashion Week. The immaculate elegance and wearability of the clothes floored me. To my delight, it featured the first collection with the indelible stamp of the first female Creative Director of the House of Dior: Maria Grazia Chiuri.
In the seventy year history of Dior, this is the first time a female Creative Director has been appointed. It never occurred to me that the fashion industry is male-dominated also. It’s about time this changes. Now is the time. At least for the House of Dior.
Watch the video and marvel at the beauty and workmanship of this splendid collection. It is interesting to note that she is an Italian designer who has had 25 years of experience in the industry. It includes having been a successful co-creative director of Valentino for eight years. Come to think of it the clothes in the video had an Italian feel to it. A perfect combination of the French attitude with an Italian feel. See for yourself.
FASHION IS ART AND ART IS LIFE.
Speaking of fashion and fashion for me is art — The staging of the fashion shows themselves are perfect examples of art – performing arts.
I will always remember one of the shows of the late, great, controversial, modern (sometimes branded as enfant terrible) British designer Alexander McQueen. It blew me away. He had flowing water on the runway. As Wikipedia aptly describes, “his catwalk shows were noted for their drama and theatricality, and they often ended with elements of performance art, such as a model being spray painted by robots” aside from other trend-setting dramatic elements in the production.
There is a 2018 documentary about his life and work which I still have to view – McQueen. He was only 40 and at the top of his career when he took his own life in 2011. It shocked, and intrigued the world.
But his legacy and spirit lives on in his successful fashion house Alexander McQueen which he founded in 1992.
With this and women on the rise, plus solo travelers in mind and heart, I trust you all enjoy the rest of July, with family and friends. Or alone, by choice.
Let us learn to be more appreciative. I am no exception. I have to remind myself often to be thankful.
Maraming salamat!
Tessie O. Taylor