You will likely agree that a Roman holiday is a wonderful prospect. So do a lot of women, according to Trafalgar, a guided holidays company that has been in the business for 67 years. More and more Indian women who are travelling alone or in women-only groups are opting for Europe as a destination, with Italy, Spain, Ireland, Britain and Portugal being the most popular.

It’s not clear why, maybe because it has been advertising in India of late, but Spain is the top choice, with 23 per cent of women booking holidays there. Of its many attractions are grand old cities such as Madrid, Toledo, Seville, Granda and Barcelona. Next comes Britain (20 per cent), and then Italy (12 per cent).

Size matters, especially when a lot comes packed into a little. Britain and Ireland lure with their history, countryside, towns and cities as well as food and drink. History and culture are the prime motivations, as are shopping and culinary experiences.

Safety is a huge concern (30 per cent) and that’s why women travellers prefer guided vacations. Guided holidays are fully organised, escorted group vacations with a travel director. They often use locals and insiders to provide travellers an authentic experience and insights into a destination.

Convenience and cost-effectiveness are the other reasons.

There has been a 22 per cent rise in bookings from India by single women and women-only groups, according to Trafalgar, whose female customer base, including couples and families, accounts for 47 per cent.

Published on March 6, 2014