Women-only trips foster solidarity and sisterhood among travellers

More than a decade ago, Fazleen Nazri began noticing a challenge that many women who spend time outdoors quietly face.

“There are many women-only spaces, like spas and salons, where women can feel comfortable and at ease,” says the 35-year-old.

“It made me wonder: why isn’t there a dedicated outdoor space where women can enjoy nature and hiking the same way?”

Determined to change this, she set out to create a space where nature-loving women like herself could connect and share their passions. The result: Pajelintrip.

“Pajelintrip began in 2017 as something very small,” says Fazleen, describing it as “more of a personal hobby and passion project” when she started it.

At the time, she was just three years into her corporate career in audit, accounting, and finance, dedicating 95% of her energy to it and only 5% to Pajelintrip. It wasn’t until 2024 that she decided to make Pajelintrip her full-time focus.

The career shift was not without its challenges, but Fazleen persevered.

Thanks to her efforts, countless female adventurers and travellers can now enjoy the outdoors on their own terms. Fazleen’s dedication to creating a safe space for women perfectly embodies the theme of International Women’s Day 2026: “Give to Gain”.

Celebrated annually on March 8, IWD is a global day that celebrates women’s social, economic, cultural and political achievements.

This year’s theme, according to the IWD website, “...encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration.” By giving selflessly, women can lift and empower one another.

In Fazleen’s case, she’s created a platform where women can be themselves without judgement. From 10 participants in her first year, now over 5,000 women have gained empowerment through her community.

Fazleen founded Pajelintrip to enable women to experience travel and