Assemble your squad for a girls-only getaway
Recharge your #girlpower with these ladies-only getaways
Female-only travel is on the rise and we are totally here for it. Whether you’re a solo traveller taking some time out from your stressful life, or you and your girlfriends just need an epic break in the sun à la the Kardashians, nothing says a relaxing break more than getting away from the guys in your life (Yewande, we’re looking at you) – with some of these places even using female-only cleaners and maintenance people. Because who runs the world? Girls, of course…
RELAXING IN THE JUNGLE
For the ultimate unwinding experience, the brand-new Bliss Sanctuary for Women in Ubud, Bali, is where it’s at. This luxurious wellness retreat will totally help you find your inner zen. If, like the Love Island girls, you’re a fan of unlimited yoga, spa treatments, massages and wellness baths surrounded by pretty petals (which are totally #gramgoals) then you’ll want to book up your place now with your best pals. Surrounded by the Ubud tropical jungle, this fivebed villa has everything you’ll ever need – including a huge private pool and both indoor and outdoor en suite bathrooms, so you can guarantee there will be no queuing to wash your hair in this place. Personalise your break and choose from 16 different packages to suit you, ranging from water lover retreats to fab foodie breaks. The “Bliss” package is the most popular and basic package, but it still includes personal drivers to chauffeur you around your wish of unlimited sightseeing experiences and unlimited local healthy food, like the best all-you-can eat buffet on steroids. With a limited amount of rooms across three sanctuaries, this place is never overcrowded – pure bliss. Prices start at £1,980. To book, visit Blisssanctuaryforwomen.com.
CAMPING UNDER THE STARS
Gather up your gal pals for a rustic night of VIP glamping in a luxury furnished bell tent at Hale Farm in East Sussex. You and up to three mates can sip on a glass of prosecco while enjoying the bubbles in a private hot tub. Then, slip into your complimentary fluffy dressing gown and slippers before popping on your collagen eye mask and chat until the sun does down – the ultimate girl-bonding treat. Accommodation includes a double bed with cosy bedding, board games, comfy seating and faux fur rugs. Huddle up around your private fire pit late at night with a bottle of wine, and don’t worry about the hangover, as you’ll have a continental breakfast delivered to your tent to settle any uneasy stomachs the next day. Prices start from £120. To book, visit Canvasandstars.co.uk.
AN ENTIRE MALE-FREE ISLAND
Have you ever just wanted to visit a place where you’re guaranteed not to bump into any blokes? Well, your lady prayers have been answered, as a stay at Supershe Island is a totally man-free zone. This exclusive 8.4 acre island is located just off the coast of Finland in the Baltic Sea, but it’s so hard to get onto that you need to fill out an application to be a member before you’re interviewed and specially selected to visit here. Yikes! Once on land, you’ll be able to take care of your mind, body and soul through yoga, kayaking, facials, massages and even motivational speaking. Four renovated cabins only accommodate up to ten women per week, so there’s a hefty waiting list. Guests can take part in cooking and nutrition classes, but most importantly, you’ll get to dine on delish farm-to-table cuisine – although alcohol is most definitely contraband here. A stay can cost around £3,500. To apply to visit, go to Supershe.com.
Paddleboarding in Croatia
It’s time to stop scrolling through your Insta-feed and get outdoors on an epic journey of discovery, as you spend five days on a paddleboard exploring Croatia’s Zadar archipelago with a bunch of badass females, aka Gutsy Girls. Follow your local guide as you paddleboard and kayak between gorgeous islands and pebbled beaches, before stopping off and snorkelling crystal-clear waters, exploring shipwrecks and enjoying unknown sandy bays all to yourselves. Once on land, you’ll have the chance to hike and cycle your way up to quaint chapels for oncein-a-lifetime picturesque views. Camp for the night at various modern, family-run apartments with lounges and kitchens, while the local families will do all the cooking for you. All you have to do is chow down on delicious traditional dinners and local, freshly caught fish. Breakfast and lunch are also included, so you can totally chill and just explore what nature has to offer. Solo travellers are welcomed with open arms, and you can sign up no matter what level paddler you are. Prices start at £1,225. To book, visit Gutsygirls.co.uk.
Plush female hotel rooms
Whether you’re flying solo or on a trip with your bestie, you’ll feel right at home during a stay at the Georgian Court Hotel in Vancouver, Canada, which has dedicated the entire Orchid Floor exclusively for female travellers. The hotel caters for women travelling for both business and pleasure, and with ladies’ comfort and security at the top of its list, you’ll find thoughtful amenities to allow you to travel light. Well stocked with straighteners, curling tongs and a ladies’ emergency kit, you won’t need to fill up your suitcase during a stay – which totally means more room for shoes. Pop on your dressing gown, kick back and chill on hypoallergenic beds with a complimentary magazine and have some well-needed you time. Should you want to get your sweat on, yoga mats are provided in every room. Or, head down to the hotel’s high-tech infrared sauna after a busy day of exploring and relax in the hot tub – yaaas. Prices start from £166 per night. To book, visit Georgiancourthotelvancouver.com.