Traveling to a new destination is an opportunity not only to explore new sights but also to support the local economy, and one of the most impactful ways to do this is by uplifting women-owned businesses. Female entrepreneurs are critical contributors to economic growth in their communities, yet they often face unique challenges in accessing resources and markets. Supporting these businesses directly as a traveler allows you to contribute to local empowerment, deepen your cultural experience, and take home meaningful stories and products.
Here’s how you can actively seek out and support women-owned businesses wherever your travels may take you.
1. Research Women-Owned Businesses in Advance
A little research before your trip can go a long way in helping you identify women-led businesses at your destination. Start by looking up articles, blogs, or local directories that spotlight female entrepreneurs and women-owned ventures in the area. Some countries even have associations or networks of women-owned businesses that can guide you in the right direction.
Helpful Resources:
- Google: Search “women-owned businesses in [destination]” to find lists, news articles, and directories featuring local female entrepreneurs.
- Social Media: Follow hashtags like #WomenOwnedBusiness, #SupportWomenEntrepreneurs, or #FemaleFounder. Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn can be great platforms for discovering small businesses and finding personal stories from women founders.
- Local Tourism Boards: Many tourism websites and visitor centers will promote women-led initiatives as part of their sustainable tourism efforts. For instance, Visit Iceland highlights several women-owned businesses, from eco-friendly accommodations to guided tours.
- Women-Led Tour Companies: Websites like Women Who Travel and SheFari specialize in women-centered travel and can point you to businesses and tour operators led by women.
2. Look for Female-Owned Shops and Markets
Many women-owned businesses are part of local markets or small shops. Shopping at these locations allows you to purchase authentic, locally made goods while directly supporting a female entrepreneur. These shops often feature handmade crafts, textiles, jewelry, and even local delicacies—products that carry stories and heritage unique to the destination.
Tips for Spotting Women-Owned Shops:
- Check for “Woman-Owned” Signage: Some stores proudly display signs indicating they’re women-owned. Keep an eye out for signs that say “female-owned” or “woman-owned business.”
- Ask Locals: If you’re staying in a homestay or have a local guide, ask them about women-led shops. Locals often know where to find hidden gems and are usually happy to recommend businesses.
- Visit Community Markets: Markets are often where women entrepreneurs thrive. These are excellent places to find handmade products and have personal interactions with the artisans.
Examples:
- In Mexico, visit Mercado de San Juan in Mexico City, where many women artisans sell their crafts.
- In Morocco, the Essaouira Women’s Cooperative is a fantastic place to buy argan oil directly from female cooperatives, supporting their economic independence.
3. Stay at Women-Operated Accommodations
Accommodation is a significant part of your travel budget, so choosing to stay in a woman-owned guesthouse, bed-and-breakfast, or boutique hotel can make a meaningful impact. These places also provide an opportunity to experience local culture on a deeper level since the hosts are often eager to share their knowledge and stories.
Ways to Find Women-Owned Lodging:
- Booking Platforms: Some platforms like Airbnb now have filters for women-owned accommodations. Also, websites like Bed and Breakfast and Booking.com sometimes highlight unique, female-owned stays.
- Airbnb Experiences: While Airbnb doesn’t explicitly label women-owned accommodations, reading the host’s profile can help you identify women-led stays. Hosts often mention their stories and why they started their business, giving insight into their ownership.
Example:
- In Nepal, look for homestays that are part of women’s cooperatives, where female hosts offer accommodations, meals, and cultural experiences that directly benefit local women and their families.
4. Book Tours and Experiences Led by Female Guides
Female tour guides often bring a unique perspective to their work, sharing personal stories and highlighting aspects of the culture that might otherwise go unnoticed. Many countries have associations of women tour guides who provide specialized tours that reflect their perspectives and expertise.
How to Find Women-Operated Tours:
- SheFari: This platform specializes in women-led travel experiences and tours worldwide.
- Local Tour Operators: Look for operators that mention women-led experiences, like the Intrepid Travel’s Women’s Expeditions, which are designed for female travelers and run by female guides.
Examples of Women-Led Tours:
- In India, companies like Women on Wanderlust (WOW) offer tours exclusively for women, led by female guides, and often incorporate social initiatives that empower local women.
- In Morocco, you can join a women-led tour of Marrakesh’s medinas, where female guides introduce you to local artisans and women’s cooperatives.
5. Dine at Female-Run Cafés and Restaurants
Food is one of the best ways to experience a new culture, and eating at women-owned restaurants supports female chefs, small business owners, and culinary traditions. Many female entrepreneurs own cafés, bakeries, or even small family-style restaurants that offer an authentic taste of the local cuisine.
How to Find Women-Owned Eateries:
- Google and TripAdvisor: Look for dining recommendations under “women-owned restaurants” in your destination.
- Food Tour Operators: Some food tours specifically focus on women-led establishments. These tours introduce you to local dishes while supporting female restaurateurs and chefs.
- Social Media Recommendations: Follow travel bloggers and influencers who highlight women-owned restaurants.
Examples:
- In Thailand, Cabbages & Condoms in Bangkok is a unique restaurant supporting female empowerment and community projects.
- In Italy, Casa di Roma in Rome is owned and operated by a female chef who offers traditional Roman dishes with her unique twist.
6. Buy Souvenirs and Gifts from Women Artisans and Cooperatives
Souvenirs that carry the story of the hands that made them are far more meaningful than mass-produced goods. Women artisans worldwide produce stunning textiles, jewelry, pottery, and crafts that reflect their cultures and personal stories. By purchasing directly from these artisans, you help preserve their crafts and support their livelihood.
Where to Find Women Artisans:
- Women’s Cooperatives: In many regions, women’s cooperatives produce handcrafted items that you can buy directly from the source. For example, in Peru, the Centro de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco supports female weavers who create traditional textiles.
- Social Enterprises and Nonprofits: Organizations like Global Goods Partners and Accompany partner with female artisans and offer their products online, which also provides inspiration for what to look for on your travels.
Examples of Artisans’ Markets:
- In Guatemala, the Mercado de Artesanías in Antigua features stalls where female artisans sell traditional handwoven textiles and crafts.
- In Kenya, the Kazuri Beads Factory offers handmade ceramic jewelry created by women, providing fair wages and support for single mothers.
7. Spread the Word About Women-Owned Businesses
One of the best ways to support female entrepreneurs abroad is by sharing your experiences. Leave positive reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, or TripAdvisor, or post on social media to let others know about the incredible women you encountered. This helps them gain more visibility, which is essential for small businesses.
Social Media Tips:
- Tag businesses and use hashtags like #SupportWomenOwned or #WomenEmpoweringWomen to help other travelers find them.
- Post reviews that highlight specific products, services, or experiences you enjoyed—this personal touch can draw more people to support these businesses.
Final Thoughts
Traveling mindfully and supporting women entrepreneurs abroad creates a ripple effect that benefits entire communities. By actively seeking out and engaging with women-led businesses, you can enjoy a richer travel experience, foster cross-cultural connections, and play a small part in empowering women worldwide. Happy travels!
Curves and a Carry On 
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