Ep 161 - Empowering Women to Explore the World: Travel Stories from Girls' Guide to the World Founder Doni Belau

Winging It Travel Podcast

Welcome to episode 161! In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, host James Hammond invites you to embark on an inspiring journey with Doni Belau, the visionary founder of Girls' Guide to the World. This pioneering women-only tour company has been empowering female travellers since 2009.

Doni shares her personal travel experiences, recounting how her childhood adventures laid the groundwork for her passion for cultural immersion and adventure travel. With Girls Guide to the World now boasting over 60 unique tours across 40 countries, listeners will learn how this innovative company focuses on creating unforgettable travel experiences that foster connection and personal growth among women. Whether you're interested in culinary delights, wellness retreats, or simply stepping out of your comfort zone, this episode provides a treasure trove of travel inspiration.

Throughout the conversation, James and Doni delve into the importance of responsible tourism and the impact of COVID-19 on the travel industry, offering practical travel tips that every traveller should consider. They discuss the joys of solo travel, highlighting the beauty of different cuisines + the incredible stories of stepping into the unknown.

Winging It is not just about travel anecdotes; it's about embracing the spirit of adventure + the thrill of discovering new cultures. Doni’s insights into the unique experiences women can have when travelling in supportive groups are both empowering + enlightening. This episode serves as a reminder that travel is not just about the destinations but also about the connections we forge and the memories we create along the way.

Doni has travelled to over eighty countries and has a massive passion for travel; this episode inspired me due to her positivity and knowledge of the world. Please check out her links below to start your dream trip today!

Girls' Guide to the World

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Girls' Guide Traveling Sisterhood Facebook Group

Here

Winging It Travel Podcast
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Credits
Host/Producer/Creator/Writer/Composer/Editor - James Hammond
Podcast Art Design - Swamp Soup Company - Harry Utton
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Chapter

1. Introduction to Winging It Travel Podcast (00:00:51)

2. Guest Introduction: Doni Belau and Her Mission (00:01:22)

3. Doni's Background and Early Travel Experiences (00:02:15)

4. The Impact of Family on Travel Passion (00:06:00)

5. Traveling to Europe: Awakening Wanderlust (00:07:27)

6. Transitioning from Film to Travel Industry (00:13:25)

7. The Birth of Girls Guide to the World (00:25:33)

8. Growth and Changes Post-COVID (00:29:55)

9. Doubling Down During the Pandemic (00:31:01)

10. Women-Only Tours: The Importance of Connection (00:36:20)

11. Group Dynamics and Tour Leadership (00:46:16)

12. Expanding Tours to Different Countries (00:47:25)

13. Supporting Local Communities Through Travel (00:50:09)

14. Tour Experiences: Themes and Activities (00:53:35)

15. Budget-Friendly Travel Tips (00:59:06)

16. Final Thoughts on Travel and Adventure (01:19:30)

17. Traveling to Places You Didn't Like (01:39:44)

18. Encouragement for Nervous Travelers (01:43:42)

19. Closing Remarks and Advice for Aspiring Travelers (01:48:00)