Women’s Participation in Tourism: Upholding the Serenity of the Asia–Pacific

The Asia–Pacific is more than just beaches, temples, and mountains—it’s a living story of cultures, nature, and communities. And who tells that story best? Often, it’s women. From leading travel collectives to embarking on bold solo journeys, women in tourism are not only exploring the world but also preserving the serenity that makes this region unique.

In Bangladesh, initiatives like Wander Woman, Lady Travelers, and Fly Far Ladies have redefined what it means for women to explore. These platforms not only arrange tours but also give women the courage to step out of their comfort zones. Whether it’s a weekend escape to Cox’s Bazar or an international adventure, they create safe spaces where women can experience freedom, joy, and the confidence to reclaim public spaces. For many, these journeys are more than vacations—they are milestones of empowerment.

Beyond Bangladesh, countless women across the Asia–Pacific are leaving their mark on tourism. Agness Walewinder, a Polish traveler who has made Asia her second home, co-founded eTramping and has journeyed solo through China, Cambodia, and the Philippines. Her storytelling shows how travel can be budget-friendly yet deeply cultural and environmentally respectful. Similarly, Nisha Jha from India, through her platform Le Monde, the Poetic Travels, shares her solo adventures across South Asia, inspiring women to see the world while staying rooted in local traditions.

In Hong Kong, Amelia Leung curates women-led cultural tours that breathe life into heritage districts, ensuring ancient crafts and stories survive for new generations. Meanwhile, Mei Zhang, founder of WildChina, has turned her vision into a thriving travel company that blends luxury with sustainability. By supporting rural women entrepreneurs in remote villages, she proves that tourism can generate prosperity while protecting cultural and natural heritage.

When women lead in tourism, they do more than run businesses—they create experiences that are safe, authentic, and deeply connected to nature and culture. They champion eco-friendly practices, amplify local voices, and ensure that the serenity of the Asia–Pacific is not overshadowed by mass commercialization.

Every journey a woman leads—whether as a guide, an entrepreneur, or a solo traveler—becomes part of a much larger movement. It is a movement that proves tourism can empower, tourism can preserve, and tourism can inspire.

In the heart of the Asia–Pacific, women are not just traveling; they are shaping a future where every step celebrates serenity, sustainability, and strength.