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Girlfriend Getaway
Recharge, Relax and Renew
By Tracy McGinnis
International TravelYolanta Barnes of European Vacations for Women, agrees with Coleman. "We are wives, mothers, responsible daughters, but in the hustle of everyday life we often forget about ourselves," Barnes says. "The fact is that if we do not take care of ourselves, there will not be enough energy to care for those we love."
Barnes' agency organizes women-only tours, specifically to Poland, a country in Eastern Europe that is growing in popularity. "Most of our customers are American women of Polish ancestry, but the interest in travel to Poland is growing, especially among Europeans," Barnes says.
Barnes believes it is important to balance your trip with the right mix of cultural activities, outdoor adventure, rest and pampering. Ideally, groups consist of 10 to 12 women, with a maximum of 16. "Since our groups are small, we are able to develop personal relationships with participants and are often able to accommodate special requests like finding a remote village where a traveler's grandmother was born or pre- and post-tour visits not specifically on the itinerary," Barnes says.
Barnes says the most important thing about travel is to just get out there and go. "Don't be afraid," Barnes says. "The world is more welcoming and friendly than we are led to believe. You can become richer and wiser with each trip you take."
