Brazilian Women Among Top Tourists Who Travel Alone

08/10/2017 - 10h12

Without a steady address and travelling alone for three years, turismologist Cris Marques, 32, refutes all arguments that discourage women to leave for any destination without a companion.

"Of course dangers do exist, but we cannot deprive ourselves of living our dreams because of fear," says Marques. Since 2014, she has visited 27 countries. "It is not a question of gender. It is just a personal choice."

Marques, who was born in Brasília, is part of a group of women which has been increasing over the years. Brazil's Ministry of Tourism says that 17.8% of Brazilian women will go on their next trip alone - among men, the figure reaches 11.8%.

A survey by platform Airbnb shows that Brazilian women are among the top tourists who travel alone, along with Russian, Japanese and Chinese women.

"Travelling makes us face our insecurity and uncertainties," says Marques. "And, as we share information on our trips on the Internet, we create a spark for those seeking inspiration to do the same," she says.

It was one of these sparks that fired the desire of Celina Martins, 57. After raising her children and finding financial security, Martins, of Rio de Janeiro, finally managed to make plans to travel to Europe for the first time in 2007.

Martins visited London, Amsterdam, Budapest, Berlin and Rome. Her experience made her understand that it is never late to hit the road.

"This is the best phase of my life to enjoy my own company."

Translated by THOMAS MUELLO

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	Eduardo Knapp/Folhapress
	After raising her children and finding financial security, Celina Martins, 57, finally managed to make plans to travel to Europe for the first time in 2007