Evelyn Hannon, known as the founder of Journeywoman, was a pioneer in encouraging and supporting solo women travelers worldwide. She started her travel writing career in the 1980s, well before solo travel for women was popular or deemed socially acceptable in many parts of the world. Hannon’s determination to empower women to travel independently changed the landscape of tourism forever.
Journeywoman, her travel resource founded in 1994, was the first of its kind to provide travel tips specifically for women. The platform was dedicated to helping women navigate solo travel safely and confidently. Through her travel guides, articles, and practical tips, Hannon offered advice on everything from how to stay safe in unfamiliar cities to how to find accommodations that welcomed solo women travelers. Her website quickly gained a global following, becoming a trusted source for women interested in exploring the world on their own terms.
Hannon’s work did more than just encourage women to travel—it helped shift the tourism industry’s focus to the needs of female travelers. As more women followed in Hannon’s footsteps, travel companies began catering to this growing demographic, offering solo-friendly tours, women-only accommodations, and specialized travel services. The solo women’s travel market is now a significant segment of the tourism industry, thanks to trailblazers like Hannon.
Evelyn Hannon’s legacy continues to inspire women to embrace the world with confidence and independence. Through her pioneering efforts, she opened doors for women travelers everywhere, helping them to see travel not as a luxury but as an essential part of personal growth and empowerment. Her work remains a cornerstone of women’s travel and tourism.
