ABSTRACT
Contemporary women, particularly those from first world communities, are in a privileged position, with increased mobility and financial independence, enabling them to grasp travel opportunities during both their leisure and business time. Male-dominated cultural values and attitudes, which once constrained women’s travel movement, have arguably weakened, allowing the latter greater freedom and personal choice. As a consequence, women are able to plan unique journeys and multi-sensual activities suited to their needs and personal ambitions. This chapter considers the literature on independent women travelers, travel and identity construction, as well as adventure and nature-based experiences in the travel context. The research employs qualitative empirical evidence collected in 60 in-depth interviews conducted in backpacker hostels and outdoor spaces in New Zealand.
