When women travel together, something amazing happens. Cheering each other on up the big climbs, waving to local kids and lingering at roadside markets. On a Women’s Backroads trip to Vietnam & Cambodia, I came for the adventure. But left with new strength and joy along with lasting friendships.
Space for Adventure & Growth
When I signed up for a Women’s Adventure in Vietnam and Cambodia, I was filled with equal parts nerves and excitement. I’d enlisted a few friends—including my best friend and sisters-in-law—to join me. But on that first day of the trip, most of the women in the group were still strangers to me. Not for long. Some came with friends, some on their own, but everyone showed up ready to connect.
Caption: Hollie S. (Left)
From the start, it felt like such a safe space. Every challenge—from big hills to new foods (more on that below)—we tackled together. I quickly realized I couldn’t have been with a better group to push myself, laugh alongside and remind me of why trying new things is so worth it. It wasn’t just the other guests; our leaders embodied this spirit too. They were knowledgeable and thoughtful. Lucky for us, they always knew where to get the best foot massage and pick up just the right gift. And they easily became part of the group, laughing with us while keeping everything running smoothly.
Finding Challenges and Chill, Together
On our active adventure, there were plenty of moments that challenged me physically. Biking up a massive hill (in my memory, it was practically a mountain), I realized I couldn’t make it all the way to the top. But I could inspire others to reach the summit—so I hopped off my bike and stood in the road, cheering everyone on. Pretty soon, others joined me, and we combined our energy, helping those on their bikes reach the top.
Quieter moments brought magic as well. After an active morning, our group gathered on the steps of a temple where a Buddhist monk offered a blessing and gently splashed water over us. The cool water and shared silence felt like a reset, soothing but also joyful. I could feel everyone taking a breath at the same time. We’d spent the whole week moving, laughing and pushing ourselves. But in that moment, we were just still together. I remember thinking how grateful I was for these women and for the space to just be.
As a group, we cheered each other on and shared moments of contemplative silence. But there was also playful, easy joy on the trip. Around the table one night, we were offered live bugs to eat. I was terrified, but soon everyone had me laughing so hard that next thing I knew, I’d tried that cricket. We were all pushing our boundaries but always doing it with this big sense of humor.
Why I’d Do It Again in a Heartbeat
I’d do another Women’s Adventure in a heartbeat. What made it so different was that I didn’t have my husband or kids to lean on. Normally I’m the center of everyone’s needs—meals, school, work, schedules.
But this. This was something entirely for myself, moments I’ll never forget. Rides and hikes when it was just me, the countryside and the rhythmic sound of my own breath, peaceful and grounding. I don’t often get that kind of stillness, and it felt spiritual in a way.
I love traveling with my family, but it was refreshing to have an adventure that was just mine. Traveling with women gives you this special kind of independence. You’re not really alone, but you make your own choices and everyone cheers you on for it.
I’m already thinking about my next Women’s Adventure. Maybe a hiking trip to Patagonia? The Dolomites? Who knows. But what I do know is that when I go, I’ll have women friends new and old by my side.
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