---
title: "Travel That Moves the Soul: Why Women Are Seeking More Than Just a Destination"
description: Women turn travel into self-discovery with wellness retreats, music festivals and hiking. Find mindful escapes, safety tips and inclusive women-only groups.
author: Dr Marina Nani (Editor-in-Chief)
date: 2025-12-16T13:17:09.000Z
updated: 2026-07-02T09:11:40.688Z
canonical: https://richtravelmagazine.com/article/travel-that-moves-the-soul-why-women-are-seeking-more-than-just-a-destination
image: https://cdn.nanimediahouse.com/w52rno-puti.jpg
categories: Mindful Travel
content_type: Guide
region: British Columbia
publication: Rich Travel Magazine
---

When we boarded a train from Toronto to Vancouver last spring, we weren’t just crossing the country. We were stepping into a journey of self-discovery. Everyone in our travel group had spent two decades building a career, but the relentless pace left each one of us feeling disconnected from ourselves and the world. That changed when we arrived in British Columbia for a week-long retreat at Mountain Trek, a wellness sanctuary nestled in the mountains near Nelson.

The retreat combined daily hikes, yoga sessions, and mindfulness workshops, all designed to help women like us reconnect with our bodies and [the healing power of nature](https://richtravelmagazine.com/article/the-healing-power-of-nature-a-retreat-for-the-modern-woman-5ed1f0).  None of us didn’t realise how much we needed to slow down until we were surrounded by women who made the same decision: start remembering who we were outside of our jobs and commitments.

## The Power of Music in Travel

Women aren’t just visiting places anymore; they are listening to them. Music has become a powerful part of these experiences, turning trips into memories tied to sound, emotion and shared moments. For most women, music is now a big part of travel. Seven in ten have either gone to a concert or festival or would consider it, and over half say [music shapes where they choose to travel](https://richtravelmagazine.com/article/why-not-how-women-are-re-imagining-travel-in-2026-to-nourish-the-soul-energize-the-body-and-a-c1aca5).

Hotels and destinations are taking note. Hotels in Vancouver offer a “Music & Memories” package, which includes tickets to local concerts and a curated playlist for guests. Festivals like [Osheaga](https://www.osheaga.com/en/) in Montreal have become pilgrimage sites for women seeking both musical inspiration and a sense of belonging.

## Wellness as a Way of Life

Wellness retreats have moved from luxury indulgences to essential experiences for women seeking restoration and growth. Retreats like Quebec’s [Holistic Vacation](https://www.holisticvacation.ca/) combine yoga, forest bathing, and nutritional workshops to create a space for women to recharge. Others, like [Canyon Ranch’s Women’s Collective](https://www.canyonranch.com/), set to open in 2026, are designed specifically for women, offering programmes that address everything from stress management to hormonal health.

For women over fifty, travel is about more than just seeing new places. It’s about moving through them. Last year, she joined a women-only hiking expedition in the Canadian Rockies. Over half of women want to include workouts during their trips and hiking is a top choice. Hotels and destinations are responding with experiences that blend movement and exploration. The [Wickaninnish Inn](https://www.wickaninnishinn.com/) on Vancouver Island offers guided hikes along the Pacific Rim, while [G Adventures](https://www.gadventures.com/) women-only tours include cycling through Tuscany and yoga retreats in Bali. These experiences aren’t just about physical activity; they’re about using movement to deepen the connection to a place and to oneself.

Travel isn’t just an escape anymore; it’s a way to feel more alive. Whether it’s through the rhythm of a live concert, the calm of a morning meditation, or the thrill of a mountain trail, women are seeking experiences that move them emotionally as much as physically. From [vineyard getaways that blend wine with wellness](https://richtravelmagazine.com/article/beyond-the-glass-vineyard-getaways-designed-for-women-817288) to [mindful solo adventures that encourage inner exploration](https://richtravelmagazine.com/article/mindful-solo-travel-for-women-the-courage-to-explore-within-d1b7d4), these journeys are changing how women travel, turning it into a tool for self-discovery, empowerment, and connection. Travel has become a way to find pieces of themselves along the way. And as more women embrace this philosophy, the possibilities for what travel can be are endless.

## Further Context

**What safety tips should solo female travellers keep in mind when attending retreats or festivals?**

Solo female travel is increasingly popular, but safety remains a priority. Here are key tips to consider:

Research destinations: Opt for locations known for being safe and welcoming to solo female travellers, such as Iceland or Canada.
Vet organisers and accommodations: Choose retreats, festivals, or travel groups with transparent safety policies, positive reviews, and responsive hosts. Look for security measures like secure accommodations, on-site staff, and clear emergency protocols.
Stay connected: Share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member and check in regularly. Use apps or devices that allow real-time location sharing.
Trust your instincts: If a situation or person feels uncomfortable, remove yourself from it. Prioritise your comfort and well-being.
Prepare for emergencies: Carry a basic first-aid kit, know local emergency numbers, and have a plan for accessing help if needed.

**How can women find reputable women-only travel groups or retreats?**

Finding reputable women-only travel groups or retreats requires some research, but there are several ways to ensure you’re choosing a trustworthy and inclusive experience:

Use specialised platforms: Websites and directories that focus on women’s travel, such as Sisterhood Womens Travel or Women’s Travel Groups, often list vetted retreats and group tours.
Read reviews and testimonials: Look for feedback from previous attendees to gauge the quality and inclusivity of the experience. Platforms like TripAdvisor or Google Reviews can provide insights.
Check credentials: Ensure the organisers are certified or affiliated with recognised travel or wellness organisations. Look for transparency in pricing, itineraries, and safety policies.
Attend trial sessions: Some retreats or travel groups offer introductory sessions or webinars, which can help you assess whether the experience aligns with your needs.
Seek recommendations: Ask friends, family, or online communities for personal recommendations. Women’s travel forums or social media groups can be valuable resources.

**What are the psychological benefits of attending wellness retreats, and are there any downsides?**

Wellness retreats are designed to support emotional and psychological well-being, and many women report transformative benefits, such as:

Reduced stress and anxiety: Retreats often include mindfulness practices, meditation, and relaxation techniques that help lower stress levels.
Improved self-awareness: Activities like yoga, journaling, and group workshops encourage self-reflection and personal growth.
Enhanced emotional resilience: Retreats provide a safe space to process emotions, build coping skills, and develop healthier habits.
Increased sense of community: Connecting with like-minded women can foster a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation.

However, there can be downsides or challenges to consider:

Emotional intensity: Retreats often encourage deep emotional work, which can be overwhelming or triggering for some participants.
Post-retreat reintegration: Returning to daily life after an immersive retreat can be challenging, particularly if the transition feels abrupt. Some women struggle to maintain the habits or mindset shifts they experienced during the retreat.
Unrealistic expectations: Not all retreats deliver the same level of impact, and some may not meet individual needs or expectations. It’s important to choose a retreat that aligns with your goals and preferences.

**How inclusive are women-only travel groups and retreats for marginalised communities?**

Inclusivity in women-only travel groups and retreats varies, but many organisations are making efforts to create welcoming spaces for marginalised communities, including women of colour, LGBTQ+ women, women with disabilities, and those from lower-income backgrounds. Here’s what to consider:

Dedicated programmes: Some retreats and travel groups specifically cater to marginalised communities, offering tailored experiences that address their unique needs and challenges.
Cultural sensitivity: Inclusive retreats often incorporate cultural awareness training for facilitators and ensure that programming respects diverse backgrounds and identities.
Accessibility: Retreats may offer scholarships, sliding-scale fees, or payment plans to make experiences more accessible. However, physical accessibility (e.g., for women with disabilities) can still be a barrier at some locations.
Challenges: Women from marginalised communities may face additional logistical or cultural challenges, such as language barriers, visa requirements, or destinations with conservative norms. It’s important to research and choose retreats that prioritise safety and inclusivity.

If inclusivity is a priority, look for retreats or travel groups with clear policies on diversity and inclusion, as well as testimonials from participants with similar backgrounds.