The celebration of women continues with this travel bucket list that features destinations that let explorers pay homage to some amazing women pioneers.
Fly high in Cappadocia as a salute to Sabiha Gökçen
The first woman in Turkey to earn a pilot’s license and is also believed to be the world’s first female combat pilot, Sabiha Gökçen, earned the distinction of having one of Istanbul’s airports named after her.
Feel the air up high Istanbul—one of the top five 2018 destinations in Europe according to Agoda’s booking data—in a hot air balloon that flies over the majestic landscape of Cappadocia to connect with Gökçen and her love for the skies.
Where to stay: Spend the night—or three—at Vineyard Cave Hotel and enjoy a morning coffee with a wonderful view of amazing hot air balloons.
Embrace the adventurous spirit of Junko Tabei
According to an Agoda-commissioned study, trying a new sport is a top bucket list item of Pinays for 2019. Let Junko Tabei, the first woman to reach the top of Mount Everest, inspire you to give mountaineering a try.
Experience the thrill of hiking at Mt. Batulao, just two to three hours away from Manila. The dormant volcano promises a stunning panoramic view of Batangas and is perfect for newbie climbers.
Where to stay: Book a room at Casitas de Victoria for the perfect respite after a day of trekking.
Explore the hometown of Filipino suffragette Josefa Llanes Escoda
Josefa Llanes Escoda’s image on the Philippine official banknote is a recognition of her work as a social and civil servant and as an active member of the Philippine suffrage movement.
Get to know her better and travel up north to discover the sights and sounds of Escoda’s hometown, Ilocos Norte, where you can visit the famous Paoay Church, windmills of Bangui, and the astonishingly white rock formations of Kapurpurawan. Push your boundaries with thrilling 4×4 rides and sand board along the Paoay sand dunes.
Where to stay: Check in at Alta Vista Ilocandia where you can have the whole private villa to yourself.
Stroll alongside Sangdeaun Lek Chailert’s favorite gentle giants
While elephant rides have been a popular tourist activity in parts of Asia including her homeland Thailand, Sangdeaun Lek Chailert recognized the mistreatment and abuse that these creatures suffered at the hands of their trainers and keepers.
In 1996, Chailert established the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai to provide a sanctuary; they have rescued over a hundred elephants since. Take a walk in the park as a volunteer or visitor. The Elephant Nature Park offers one to seven days volunteering projects.
Where to stay: Recharge at the Dusit Princess Chiang Mai Hotel at the end of each day, to ensure you’re fully energized when you come to meet the elephants again the next day.