Travel has changed over the years – and so have we. As women over 50, many of us are choosing experiences that align with our interests, comfort, curiosity, and wellness. Are you craving cultural connection, nature, relaxation, or world-class cuisine? 2025 top travel destinations all deliver something unique and meaningful.
Top 5 2025 destinations:
- For Sun & Relaxation: Madeira, Portugal – With new direct flights from North America and a growing number of wellness retreats, Madeira is now more accessible than ever for travelers seeking restorative beauty.
- For Cultural Immersion: Kanazawa, Japan – As travelers seek alternatives to Kyoto, Kanazawa shines with cultural depth and fewer crowds, offering a more relaxed, authentic Japanese experience.
- For Adventures & Exploration: Greenland – With expanding cruise routes and sustainable travel initiatives, Greenland is opening up to conscious adventurers ready to go beyond the ordinary.
- For Nature & Wellness: South Island, New Zealand – With tourism fully rebounded and a renewed focus on slow, mindful travel, South Island is ideal for women seeking wellness through wide-open wonder.
- For Foodies & Flavor Seekers: Oaxaca, Mexico – Oaxaca continues to gain global recognition for its rich cuisine and culture, and it’s an especially rewarding destination for women who travel with their tastebuds first.
I have selected 25 must-visit places for 2025 based on expert picks from Travel + Leisure, National Geographic, Lonely Planet, Condé Nast Traveler, and more – curated with care for mature travelers who want more than just another postcard.
Keep reading to discover the complete list of 2025 top travel destinations.
How to Choose the Perfect Destination for You
Choosing a travel destination can be an exciting but sometimes challenging task. Here are some tips to help you decide on the perfect travel destination.
Ask Yourself Questions
Reflect on what you want to get out of your trip. Are you seeking relaxation, adventure, cultural immersion, or a combination? Asking yourself these questions can help guide your decision.
Consider Your Interests
Identify your interests and hobbies. If you love history, you might enjoy destinations with rich historical significance. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, consider places with opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, or other activities you enjoy.
Consider the Season
Think about the time of year you plan to travel. Some destinations are more enjoyable during specific seasons. Consider weather conditions, festivals, and events happening during your preferred travel dates.
Consult Reviews and Recommendations
Read reviews from other travelers on websites, forums, and social media. Ask friends and family for recommendations based on their experiences. Websites like Lonely Planet and Tripadvisor are great resources to help you plan your perfect itinerary.
Safety and Security
Research the safety of your potential destinations. Check travel advisories and ensure you’re aware of any safety concerns. This is especially important if traveling solo to a new or unfamiliar place.
Canada travel advice and advisories
Cultural Considerations
Learn about the local culture, customs, and traditions of potential destinations. Consider whether you’re comfortable with the cultural differences and if you’re interested in experiencing a new way of life.
Personal Bucket List
If you have a travel bucket list, this is an excellent time to revisit it. Check off destinations you’ve already visited and consider exploring the ones that have been on your list for a while.
My Bucket List Journal – Living the Dream on Amazon
Remember that the perfect destination is subjective and varies based on individual preferences. Taking the time to consider your interests, budget, and travel goals will help you make an informed decision.
2025 Travel Destinations
For Sun & Relaxation
Madeira, Portugal
Nicknamed the “Island of Eternal Spring,” Madeira is a Portuguese archipelago in the North Atlantic that feels like a dream year-round. With a subtropical climate and average temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F, it’s the kind of destination where you can leave your winter coat behind no matter the season.
This lush, mountainous island is perfect for travelers who want natural beauty with a side of comfort. Towering cliffs rise above deep blue waters, and terraced vineyards cling to hillsides above colorful fishing villages. It’s a place where everything – from the flowers to the cuisine – feels full of life.
One of Madeira’s most unique features is its levada trails – historic irrigation channels that now serve as scenic walking paths through forests, valleys, and even waterfalls. These walks can be as easy or challenging as you like, offering a gentle way to explore the island’s dramatic interior. You’ll find locals walking them daily, often with a baguette under one arm and a story to share.
In the capital, Funchal, cobblestone streets lead to vibrant farmers markets, embroidery shops, and wine cellars where you can sample the island’s signature fortified wine. Funchal is also home to beautifully manicured botanical gardens, which bloom with orchids, bougainvillea, and rare plants from around the world, thanks to the island’s unique microclimates.
For a relaxing afternoon, take the cable car up to Monte, a hillside neighborhood with panoramic views, and then opt for a ride down in a traditional wicker toboggan – an old-fashioned (and surprisingly smooth) way to descend that dates back to the 19th century.
Seafood is another highlight. Try grilled espada (black scabbardfish) served with local bananas, or enjoy fresh limpets (lapas) with a drizzle of garlic butter, best enjoyed with a view of the ocean and a glass of vinho verde.
In 2025, new direct flights from Newark, New Jersey to Funchal are making it easier than ever for North American travelers to discover Madeira’s charms. Whether you’re a solo traveler, enjoying a romantic getaway, or traveling with friends, Madeira’s mix of nature, hospitality, and tranquility makes it a standout destination this year.
Perfect for: Women who love flower-filled gardens, ocean views, and relaxed cultural exploration with a touch of adventure.
Isla Holbox, Mexico
If you’ve been to Cancún or Tulum and long for something quieter, Isla Holbox is your answer. Just a short ferry ride from Chiquilá, this barefoot island off Mexico’s northern Yucatán coast is refreshingly car-free, with sandy paths used by golf carts and bicycles. It’s the kind of place where time slows down and hammocks swing lazily in the sea breeze.
The island is best known for its bioluminescent beaches, where the waters glow at night due to plankton that light up when disturbed. Visit during the summer to swim among gentle whale sharks – the largest fish in the ocean – in one of the few places on Earth where this experience is still possible.
Days on Holbox are simple and rejuvenating. Start with yoga on the beach, wander into the colorful town for fish tacos or coconut ice cream, then head to Punta Mosquito or Punta Coco for shallow swimming in calm turquoise waters. Don’t be surprised to see flamingos, pelicans, and dolphins as you stroll the shore.
Art lovers will enjoy the island’s street murals and creative touches found even in the smallest cafés and boutiques. Most accommodations are eco-friendly, with a laid-back luxury that blends comfort and sustainability.
Perfect for: Women looking to disconnect, reconnect with nature, and enjoy a slow, sunny rhythm of life.
Read more: Traveling Solo in Mexico as an Older Woman.
Norfolk, England
England’s Norfolk region is where wide skies, salt marshes, and charming seaside villages come together. It’s a peaceful escape with a timeless feel – think Victorian piers, cozy pubs, and sand dunes that stretch for miles. It’s also one of the most underrated destinations for wellness and solitude in the UK.
Explore the Norfolk Broads, a series of rivers and lakes ideal for boat rides and gentle paddleboarding. Birdwatchers will love spotting avocets, spoonbills, and even seals along the coast. Towns like Wells-next-the-Sea and Blakeney are dotted with pastel-painted cottages and old-world tearooms.
If history is your thing, you’ll find it in spades – from Holkham Hall, an 18th-century stately home, to Norwich Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in Europe. Norfolk is also home to Sandringham House, the royal family’s holiday retreat.
In 2025, Norfolk is gaining attention for its new boutique hotels, wellness-focused walking holidays, and revived rail routes, making it easier to travel car-free through the countryside.
Perfect for: Travelers who appreciate classic English charm, long walks, and a warm scone by the fire.
Crete, Greece
Crete is Greece’s largest island – and arguably its most versatile. With a blend of history, beaches, mountain villages, and farm-fresh cuisine, it’s a destination that suits almost every type of traveler.
Begin in Chania, where a Venetian harbor sparkles at sunset, and alleys lead to boutiques selling leather goods, ceramics, and handmade olive oils. Then head to Elafonisi, where pink-sand beaches stretch into shallow, clear waters – ideal for relaxing dips.
History buffs will want to explore Knossos, the Minoan palace said to be Europe’s oldest city. For something quieter, try the hill village of Anogeia, where traditional music fills the tavernas and lacework artisans carry on centuries-old crafts.
Crete is also a haven for food lovers. The cuisine is rustic and seasonal – think slow-roasted lamb, local cheeses, and greens foraged from the mountains. Enjoy meals in garden courtyards with views of olive groves and the sea.
For a touch of adventure, the Samaria Gorge offers a day-long downhill hike through soaring cliffs and shaded pine forests, while boat tours to hidden beaches let you soak in Crete’s wild coastline.
Perfect for: Women who want a touch of history, excellent food, and options for both quiet days and active outings.
Read more: Guide to the Best Greek Islands for Over 60s.
The Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
A new destination with ancient roots, the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia is opening to the world with an emphasis on sustainable luxury. The Red Sea Project is one of the most ambitious tourism developments ever undertaken, with island resorts built to high environmental standards and a promise to preserve the area’s untouched coral reefs and marine life.
In 2025, resorts from global brands like Six Senses and St. Regis are welcoming travelers to experience desert-meets-ocean luxury. Overwater bungalows offer views of impossibly clear waters, while glass-bottom boats and scuba excursions reveal thriving coral gardens teeming with colorful fish.
But this destination is more than just sun and sand. Visitors can tour ancient Nabataean ruins, attend artisan workshops in traditional villages, or stargaze in the silence of the Arabian desert.
Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast is still emerging, which means you’ll be among the first to experience it – without the crowds. With high levels of service and growing infrastructure designed for international guests, it’s a destination that balances comfort and curiosity.
Perfect for: Women seeking something bold, new, and deeply peaceful – with a luxurious edge.
For Cultural Immersion
Charleston, South Carolina, USA
Elegant and approachable, Charleston blends deep history, Southern hospitality, and a dynamic food scene – all in a walkable waterfront setting. Horse-drawn carriages roll through the Historic District, where pastel homes and iron-wrought balconies transport visitors to another era. But the city doesn’t live in the past – it’s full of contemporary art galleries, stylish boutiques, and rooftop bars overlooking the harbor.
In 2025, Charleston continues its cultural renaissance with the opening of The Cooper, a luxury hotel set right on the water in the city’s historic French Quarter. Add to that the International African American Museum, now in full swing, which offers powerful insight into the city’s layered history.
Food lovers can explore Gullah cuisine, oysters fresh from the Lowcountry, and world-renowned fine dining. Don’t miss a visit to Magnolia Plantation, known for its romantic gardens, or a harbor cruise past Fort Sumter.
Charleston invites slow wandering, warm evenings, and meaningful stories – ideal for women traveling solo or with friends who want beauty, depth, and a little indulgence.
Perfect for: History lovers, foodies, and anyone craving charm, comfort, and culture wrapped in one.
Kanazawa, Japan
If Kyoto feels too crowded or overrun by tourists, Kanazawa is its quieter cousin – and a cultural treasure in its own right. Located on Japan’s western coast, this graceful city offers a slower, more serene experience of Japanese tradition.
Start with a visit to Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan’s “Three Great Gardens,” meticulously designed with bridges, teahouses, and seasonal blooms. Nearby, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art contrasts beautifully with the city’s more ancient sights.
Explore the preserved geisha district of Higashi Chaya, where wooden teahouses line stone streets, and enjoy matcha tea served in a gold-leaf bowl – fitting, since Kanazawa is Japan’s gold-leaf capital. Visit artisan workshops to see this craft up close.
The local seafood is outstanding, especially the sushi and crab at Omicho Market, a busy indoor arcade with vendors selling everything from sashimi to handmade pickles. Traditional ryokan inns offer tatami mat rooms and multi-course kaiseki dinners served with precision and care.
Perfect for: Women looking for immersive culture, peaceful beauty, and refined craftsmanship in a uniquely Japanese setting.
Pondicherry, India
Pondicherry (now often called Puducherry) is like no other place in India. Once a French colony, this small city on India’s southeast coast feels part Mediterranean, part Tamil, and entirely unforgettable. The French Quarter is a peaceful grid of yellow colonial buildings, blooming bougainvillea, and leafy courtyards, perfect for slow strolls and café stops.
Pondicherry is also a spiritual hub. The nearby intentional community of Auroville is dedicated to peace and human unity and welcomes visitors to its meditation center, artisan workshops, and global cafés. In the evenings, locals and travelers alike gather along the seaside Promenade Beach to walk, relax, and watch the sun set over the Bay of Bengal.
Shopping is a delight here – think cotton tunics, handmade incense, essential oils, and locally made ceramics. The food is equally eclectic: croissants in the morning, fragrant biryani at lunch, and fresh seafood for dinner.
The city’s size makes it manageable, and many travelers note the calm atmosphere compared to India’s larger cities. It’s a nurturing place to explore at your own rhythm.
Perfect for: Women seeking spiritual rest, artistic inspiration, and a slower pace of discovery.
Montréal, Canada
Montréal is one of North America’s most enchanting cities, where French flair meets Canadian friendliness. It’s a perfect long-weekend destination with layers of culture, history, and cosmopolitan charm.
In Old Montréal, walk along cobblestone streets lined with 18th-century architecture, visit the stunning Notre-Dame Basilica, or explore artisan boutiques selling everything from maple treats to hand-knit scarves. The Jean-Talon Market is a must for food lovers – filled with fresh produce, cheeses, pastries, and warm café culture.
But Montréal is also vibrant and modern. The Plateau district is known for colorful row houses, murals, and indie bookstores. In the summer, outdoor festivals like the Montreal Jazz Festival light up the city with music.
In the colder months, try ice skating at Parc La Fontaine, or enjoy a fondue dinner in a cozy French bistro. And no matter when you visit, the city’s bilingual charm and multicultural vibrancy make it feel both exotic and accessible.
Perfect for: Urban explorers who love the idea of a European-style getaway – without the long flight.
Genoa, Italy
Tucked along Italy’s Ligurian coast, Genoa (Genova) is a city of grandeur and grit, full of hidden treasures and fewer crowds than its more famous neighbors. Once a powerful maritime republic, Genoa’s old city center is a labyrinth of caruggi (narrow alleys) that lead to baroque palaces, frescoed churches, and surprising squares.
Start your exploration at the Palazzi dei Rolli, a UNESCO-listed group of noble homes that once hosted visiting dignitaries. The ornate interiors and art collections are an unexpected delight. Head down to the Porto Antico to visit the Galata Maritime Museum and stroll along the renovated waterfront lined with cafes and gelato stands.
Food is central to life here. Genoa is the birthplace of pesto, traditionally made with local basil, pine nuts, and Parmigiano. Try it tossed with trofie pasta or spread on warm focaccia. The city’s markets are full of olives, cheeses, and wines that reflect its deep Ligurian roots.
Take a day trip to nearby Camogli or Portofino for seaside walks and aperitivos by the marina – or simply enjoy the authentic, unpolished beauty of Genoa itself.
Perfect for: Women who want Italy’s culture and cuisine – with fewer tourists and more authenticity.
Read more: A Guide to Italy’s Amazing Art: 7 Ways to Get the Best Experience.
For Adventure & Exploration
Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden
Just minutes from Stockholm, a world of quiet islands awaits. The Stockholm Archipelago is made up of over 30,000 islands and skerries scattered across the Baltic Sea. Each island has its own character – some are wild and forested, others dotted with red wooden cottages or centuries-old churches.
In 2025, a new 270-kilometer Stockholm Archipelago Trail was unveiled, linking islands by public ferry and footpaths. It offers gentle hiking routes, cozy guesthouses, and easy connections for travelers who want to move at their own pace. From the laid-back shores of Vaxholm to the artistic island of Sandhamn, it’s possible to build your own itinerary, hopping from one natural haven to the next.
Many islands offer saunas, wild swimming spots, and traditional Swedish meals made with freshly caught fish and foraged ingredients. You’ll also find art galleries, cafés, and nature reserves along the way.
This is a place where silence is soothing, where ferry rides double as scenic tours, and where wellness comes not from a spa, but from sea air and stillness.
Perfect for: Women seeking calm, connection to nature, and a Nordic-style retreat from the everyday.
Launceston & Tamar Valley, Tasmania
Located in the northeastern corner of Tasmania, Launceston and the Tamar Valley offer an experience that blends farm-to-table cuisine, scenic vineyards, and a relaxed pace that makes it feel like time slows down.
Launceston, recently designated a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, is filled with graceful colonial architecture, gardens, and a strong sense of community. Its Harvest Market is a local institution, where you can chat with farmers, sample artisanal cheeses, and sip cool-climate wines from the region.
The surrounding Tamar Valley is wine country at its most approachable. The rolling hills are dotted with family-run vineyards, many with small cellar doors offering tastings accompanied by cheese boards or freshly shucked oysters. You’ll find intimate boutique accommodations throughout the valley, often with sweeping views and fireplaces perfect for cool evenings.
Nature lovers will enjoy short walks in Cataract Gorge, and for something truly different, you can visit echidna sanctuaries or take wildlife cruises on the Tamar River.
Perfect for: Women who enjoy wine, nature, and a welcoming small-town feel with gourmet flair.
Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Far from the crowds and commercial resorts of Bali lies Raja Ampat, a cluster of remote islands off the coast of West Papua, Indonesia. It’s been called one of the last paradises on Earth – and with good reason. With crystal-clear water, dramatic limestone islands, and coral reefs bursting with life, Raja Ampat is a dream for nature lovers.
This is a destination best suited to those looking for eco-luxury. Stay in wooden overwater bungalows built by local communities, snorkel just steps from your bed, and fall asleep to the sound of the sea. The reefs here are among the most biodiverse on the planet, home to everything from manta rays and reef sharks to tiny seahorses and vibrant nudibranchs.
Above water, the islands are equally captivating – jungle-covered cliffs, hidden lagoons, and quiet fishing villages where traditions still shape daily life. Many lodges support conservation and community education, giving your visit a deeper meaning.
Perfect for: Adventurous women looking for a far-flung escape rooted in natural beauty and sustainability.
Greenland
Greenland offers an Arctic experience unlike anywhere else in the world. Towering icebergs, glacier-carved fjords, and colorful villages create a landscape that feels untouched and timeless.
While remote, Greenland is increasingly accessible via flights from Iceland or Denmark. Cruises along the western coast are especially popular in summer, stopping at towns like Ilulissat, where you can witness the calving of massive glaciers into the sea. It’s a humbling and unforgettable sight.
You can also enjoy beautiful hikes through flower-filled tundra, kayak past seals and whales, and visit local museums that explore the culture of Greenland’s Indigenous communities. In winter, the northern lights dance across the sky in a way that feels almost spiritual.
What makes Greenland extra special is its stillness. Whether watching a glacier drift silently by or enjoying coffee with locals in a tiny village café, you’ll feel far from the noise of everyday life.
Perfect for: Women seeking awe-inspiring landscapes, meaningful encounters, and the peaceful grandeur of the north.
Boise, Idaho, USA
Boise has quietly become one of America’s coolest small cities, with an easygoing vibe, strong community spirit, and a surprising cultural scene that makes it a pleasure to explore.
You’ll find walkable streets downtown, local coffee shops with live music, and outdoor art sprinkled everywhere – from murals to the quirky Freak Alley Gallery, an ever-evolving alleyway full of bold, creative expression. The city is also home to a proud Basque community, with restaurants, a cultural museum, and festivals that showcase this heritage.
Boise sits at the base of the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, offering easy access to hiking trails, biking paths, and even hot springs for soaking. Float down the Boise River, stroll through the Idaho Botanical Garden, or enjoy a picnic in the Greenbelt, a 25-mile riverside trail that winds through town.
Its laid-back charm, friendly people, and blend of nature and culture make Boise a perfect under-the-radar destination for travelers of all types.
Perfect for: Women who enjoy friendly cities, creative culture, and the ease of combining outdoor fun with urban comforts.
For Nature & Wellness
Ocala National Forest, Florida
If you think Florida is all beaches and theme parks, Ocala National Forest might surprise you. Located in central Florida, it’s one of the oldest national forests in the United States and offers a tranquil escape with a completely different kind of natural beauty.
The forest is filled with over 600 natural lakes, springs, and rivers, many of which are open to swimming, kayaking, or gentle canoeing. Juniper Springs and Silver Glen Springs are two of the most beloved swimming spots, with water so clear it looks like glass. There are trails for every level, from peaceful forest strolls to longer hikes past wetlands, pine flatwoods, and even wild horses.
What makes Ocala especially appealing for women over 50 is its accessibility and sense of peace. Wildlife watchers will enjoy spotting deer, herons, otters, and even manatees in the spring-fed waters. There are comfortable campgrounds, RV parks, and nearby lodges if you’d rather not sleep under the stars.
Perfect for: Women looking for a quiet nature retreat, with warm water, gentle trails, and plenty of wildlife in a lesser-known Florida gem.
The Flow Country, Scotland
Scotland’s Flow Country is a name you’ll hear more of in 2025 thanks to its recent designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This sweeping expanse of rolling peatlands and misty hills in the far north of Scotland is one of Europe’s last truly wild places – and its calm beauty is quietly breathtaking.
Here, you’ll find an untouched landscape of blanket bogs, lochs, and slow-moving rivers, all teeming with life. It’s a haven for birdwatchers and those who prefer peaceful, uncrowded travel. The Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere, nearby, also offers dark sky parks perfect for stargazing, forest bathing, and enjoying a warm pub meal after a bracing walk.
Travelers can take the North Coast 500 scenic route, stopping at hidden beaches, castle ruins, and cozy inns along the way. And while the landscape is rugged, the hospitality is famously warm.
Perfect for: Women who want serenity, solitude, and a chance to feel like the only person for miles in a place that’s as soulful as it is scenic.
Lake Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled is the kind of place that looks like it came out of a storybook. Found in the Julian Alps of Slovenia, this emerald-green lake is crowned by a tiny island with a charming chapel accessible only by traditional wooden pletna boats. Add in a cliffside castle and snow-capped peaks in the distance, and you have one of Europe’s most enchanting spots.
The lakeside promenade is flat, easy to walk, and just over four miles around. You can row to the island, ring the bell in the church (a tradition for good luck), or hike up to Ojstrica Viewpoint for an unforgettable panorama.
Nearby, you’ll find Vintgar Gorge, a beautiful wooden walkway that follows a river through moss-covered cliffs and waterfalls. The town of Bled offers spa hotels, lakeview dining, and the famous Bled cream cake – a local dessert you’ll find in nearly every café.
Lake Bled is safe, welcoming, and manageable in size – ideal for a solo or small-group trip.
Perfect for: Women who want romantic views, gentle activity, and a peaceful escape in nature without venturing too far off the beaten path.
South Island, New Zealand
New Zealand’s South Island is one of those places that stays with you long after your trip. The landscapes here are on a grand scale – glacial lakes, towering mountains, wild coastlines, and lush rainforests. It’s a natural wonderland that offers just the right balance of adventure and tranquility.
Queenstown is a great base, known as the “Adventure Capital of the World,” but don’t worry – there’s more than bungee jumping here. Think wine tasting in Gibbston Valley, a relaxing cruise through Milford Sound, or a drive along the Southern Scenic Route with frequent stops for beach walks and mountain views.
For those who love gardens and galleries, Christchurch blends English charm with modern resilience. Wanaka offers smaller crowds and quiet lakefront beauty. Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier allow for accessible guided walks to the ice.
Even with its dramatic scenery, South Island is easy to navigate, with well-maintained roads, excellent visitor infrastructure, and warm Kiwi hospitality.
Perfect for: Women who want to feel free and fully alive in one of the world’s most beautiful outdoor destinations.
Read more: Best New Zealand Tours for Over 50s.
Sapa, Vietnam
Tucked into the northern mountains of Vietnam, Sapa is a place of quiet majesty. Known for its terraced rice fields, cool climate, and vibrant hill tribe culture, it feels a world apart from the country’s busy cities.
The town itself is small and walkable, with markets selling handmade textiles and restaurants serving steaming bowls of pho and local herbal teas. Just outside town, guided treks lead through villages belonging to the Hmong, Dao, and other ethnic minority communities who still live and farm much as they have for generations.
If you’re not up for long hikes, shorter walks to Cat Cat or Lao Chai villages still offer incredible views and authentic encounters. Stay in a homestay or choose a boutique mountain lodge with a view of the misty valley below.
Sapa is especially appealing from March to May or September to November, when the weather is cool and dry and the rice terraces are most photogenic.
Perfect for: Women seeking meaningful cultural connection, mountain serenity, and something off the traditional tourist path – but still comfortable and deeply rewarding.
For Foodies & Flavor Seekers
Oaxaca, Mexico
A feast for the senses, Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s most vibrant and culturally rich cities. Known as the birthplace of mole sauce and the heart of mezcal country, it’s a place where food, art, and tradition come together in colorful, joyful harmony.
Wander the colonial streets of the Centro Histórico, where every block seems to hold a handmade craft shop, a street musician, or a courtyard café. Visit Santo Domingo Church, browse the Textile Museum, or stroll through the Ethnobotanical Garden, where native plants are arranged with artistic precision.
Oaxaca is especially lively during its many festivals – Guelaguetza, Day of the Dead, and countless smaller street parades that seem to appear out of nowhere. The markets are a highlight: filled with spices, chocolate, pottery, hand-embroidered clothing, and more.
Food tours and cooking classes are an ideal way to connect with local women and families who have passed down recipes for generations. And just outside the city, you can visit ancient Zapotec ruins, like Monte Albán, or natural wonders like the mineral waterfall at Hierve el Agua.
Perfect for: Women who want cultural immersion, culinary adventure, and an unforgettable taste of Mexico’s heart and soul.
Read more: Why You Should Learn a New Language in a Homestay Abroad.
Paris, France
Paris is always a good idea – and in 2025, it feels fresher and more welcoming than ever. After hosting the 2024 Olympics, the city has upgraded its infrastructure, cleaned its rivers, and expanded green spaces, making it easier and more enjoyable to explore.
Wander along the Seine River, take in the art at the Musée d’Orsay or Louvre, and spend lazy afternoons in sidewalk cafés sipping wine or espresso. The Left Bank and neighborhoods like Le Marais or Montmartre offer romantic charm with a modern, multicultural twist.
Fashion, of course, is everywhere – from haute couture in the Golden Triangle to artisan finds in the Canal Saint-Martin district. And the food? Beyond the croissants and coq au vin, you’ll find seasonal, vegetable-forward menus, international bistros, and outdoor markets packed with fresh produce and local cheese.
For a unique view, take a sunset boat ride on the Seine or explore the lesser-known Promenade Plantée, a raised garden path that inspired New York’s High Line. It’s Paris – but more relaxed, more walkable, and more magical than ever.
Perfect for: Women seeking beauty, romance, and inspiration in the world’s most iconic city.
Read more: 10 Best Hotels in Paris for Seniors.
Valais, Switzerland
If you’ve dreamed of Switzerland’s Alpine charm but want more than just snow-covered ski resorts, Valais is a dream come true. This southern Swiss region is home to the Matterhorn, sprawling vineyards, dramatic gorges, and beautiful villages that look like they’ve stepped out of a fairytale.
Known for its cheese, chocolate, and wine, Valais is also a wellness destination. Relax in thermal baths in towns like Leukerbad, walk along well-marked panoramic trails with glacier views, or take train rides through valleys and peaks.
Wine lovers will appreciate the Vin du Valais – dry, crisp whites and robust reds that are hard to find outside Switzerland. Many vineyards welcome visitors for tastings with mountain views.
Valais offers culture too – visit Roman ruins, art museums, and traditional alpine festivals. Accommodations range from family-run inns to sleek spa hotels with saunas and hammams.
Perfect for: Women seeking fresh mountain air, European elegance, and a mix of relaxation and discovery.
Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA
With its adobe buildings, vibrant arts scene, and deeply rooted Native American and Hispanic heritage, Santa Fe is unlike any other U.S. city. Known as “The City Different,” it’s ideal for a soul-nourishing retreat.
Stroll through the Plaza, browse art galleries on Canyon Road, and visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum to see the Southwest through the eyes of one of its most famous artists. Santa Fe’s architecture is soft, earthy, and welcoming – buildings seem to blend right into the desert landscape.
The food is a revelation, from New Mexican classics like chile rellenos and posole to upscale fusion cuisine that celebrates local ingredients. Be sure to try both red and green chile (or go “Christmas style” and have both!).
Nearby adventures include hiking in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, soaking in mineral hot springs, or visiting ancient cliff dwellings at Bandelier National Monument.
Perfect for: Creative spirits, wellness travelers, and women who love earthy luxury with depth and meaning.
Yorkshire, United Kingdom
England’s Yorkshire region offers rolling green hills, cobblestone market towns, windswept moors, and a literary legacy that’s as rich as its Sunday roast dinners. This is Brontë country, after all – and walking through the Yorkshire Dales or Haworth can feel like stepping straight into a novel.
The historic city of York is a highlight: walk along its medieval city walls, visit York Minster, and explore the atmospheric Shambles, said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley in Harry Potter. Further afield, towns like Harrogate and Skipton offer tea rooms, antiques, and flower-filled gardens.
Nature lovers will enjoy the North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales National Park, full of trails that suit both casual walkers and seasoned hikers. You can even take a scenic steam train through the countryside for a touch of nostalgic charm.
Yorkshire is also home to some of Britain’s best food – from award-winning gastropubs to traditional puddings and artisan cheese. There’s a warmth here – in both the scenery and the people – that makes every visitor feel welcome.
Perfect for: Women who want classic English countryside, a touch of history, and plenty of fresh air (plus a good cup of tea at the end of the day).
Read more: Volunteer Travel for the over 50’s – Giving Back While Seeing the World.
Let’s Have a Conversation:
Do you enjoy traveling? Do you have a bucket list of places you want to go to in your lifetime? Have you been to any of the destinations on our list? Tell us about it in the comments below.
