Today, women book solo trips, relocate across continents, fly for business, adventure, and everything in between. That independence feels natural now, but it was built on generations of women who crossed borders when it was uncommon, challenged expectations when it was uncomfortable, and proved that movement belongs to everyone.
On March 8th, we celebrate not just women – but the progress that allows us to board confidently today.
Women Who Redefined the Journey
Long before travel was easy or expected, a few remarkable women stepped forward. They crossed oceans, skies, and even space – and in doing so, redefined what was possible. Today we share some of their stories:
Amelia Earhart: Owning the Skies
In 1932, Amelia Earhart became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. At a time when aviation itself was still evolving, her achievement was more than technical – it was symbolic. She challenged assumptions about who belonged in the cockpit and expanded the horizon for women in aviation.
Her legacy isn’t just about flying; it’s about claiming space in industries that once excluded women entirely.
Junko Tabei: Reaching the Summit
In 1975, Junko Tabei became the first woman to summit Mount Everest. At a time when high-altitude mountaineering was overwhelmingly male dominated, she quietly challenged assumptions about endurance and leadership.
Her accomplishment wasn’t only about reaching the top – it was about expanding who was seen as capable of standing there.
Nellie Bly: Around the World, On Her Terms
In 1889, journalist Nellie Bly set out to travel around the world in fewer than 80 days, inspired by fiction but determined to turn it into reality. She completed the journey in 72 days, navigating steamships and trains across continents.
At a time when women were rarely sent on international assignments, Bly demonstrated that curiosity and ambition were not limited by gender.
Gertrude Bell: Crossing Deserts and Boundaries
Gertrude Bell travelled extensively across the Middle East in the early 1900s, navigating deserts, mountains, and political landscapes few outsiders had documented firsthand. Fluent in multiple languages, she moved between cultures with unusual access and insight.
Her journeys blended exploration with diplomacy, showing that travel could shape not only personal understanding, but global narratives.
Valentina Tereshkova: Beyond Earth
In 1963, Valentina Tereshkova became the first woman to travel into space. Her mission marked a new chapter not just in exploration, but in representation. Travel, once limited to land and sea, had expanded beyond Earth and women were part of that future.
Travel Today – Independence in Motion
Travel today feels different: lighter, more accessible, more personal. More women than ever are choosing to travel solo, plan international trips, relocate for opportunity, or simply take time away on their own terms. The question is no longer whether women can travel independently – it’s where they want to go next.
Because sometimes progress looks simply, like booking the trip you’ve been postponing and choosing your own next destination. This March 8th, we’re celebrating that spirit with an exclusive $88 OFF promotion, a small nod to International Women’s Day and the idea that confidence should feel rewarding. Because sometimes empowerment looks like booking the trip you’ve been thinking about.
If you got inspired by creating your own travel history – start with Oojo and a limited discount on our website!
FAQ
Why is March 8th important?
March 8th is International Women’s Day, a global celebration of women’s achievements and progress toward equality.
Who was the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic?
Amelia Earhart in 1932.
Is solo female travel growing?
Yes. Solo travel among women has increased significantly over the past decade. Surveys and industry reports have shown increases of around 45% over the past five years in the number of women choosing to travel solo worldwide.
