This month, as we celebrate women’s history, you can also incorporate a little fun with all the awareness and empowerment, especially if you’re planning any international travel. The impact of women—from politics to entertainment to fashion—has always been both immense and far-reaching.
Their strides have been etched into the hearts and minds of the generations whose futures they’ve affected and some even have national monuments, exhibits and festivals dedicated to ensuring their legacies are never forgotten. Here are a few spots for you to add to your travel itinerary to celebrate the power and legacy of strong women:
[Related: Jovian Zayne Talks Living on Purpose, Plus Partying with FLOTUS]
JAMAICA: National Heroes Park
This public park in Jamaica not only houses botanical gardens and tombs and monuments for the nation’s esteemed heroes like Marcus Garvey and Norman Manley, but it also pays tribute to the Nanny of the Maroons, a woman declared a national heroine in 1975. She was an 18th-century leader of the Jamaican Maroons who led rebellions and, according to popular folklore, led slaves to freedom. She was also a pivotal part of cultural and political history of the country both pre- and post-slavery. Due to her efforts, land was given to her descendants called Nanny Town.
UK: Women of the World Festivalad_1 ampforwp-incontent-custom-banner ampforwp-incontent-ad2">
WOW – Women of the World Festival 2016 from Minky Productions on Vimeo.
Held at Southbank Centre March 8-13, it’s the world’s largest cultural festival network and features speakers from various industries, music and culture performances, a marketplace and opportunities to party and network with women from all over the world.
EGYPT: Cleopatra’s Pool
This tourist spot is located near several attractions that cater to ancient Egypt enthusiasts, including landmarks, exhibits, resorts and culture experiences. The pool, fed by a natural hot spring, is said to be where Cleopatra herself swam during a visit to Siwa, and tourists can follow in her footsteps to enjoy the experience of sunbathing or swimming. Cafes also offer light fare such as tea and local snacks, and souvenir shops at the site celebrate all that is the African ruler’s royal legacy and life.
UK: The Victoria & Albert Museum’s Fashion Exhibit
Fashion has been a big part of women’s daily life—and sometimes bondage and liberation. This UK museum has extensive interactive exhibits dedicated to the history, impact and social evolution of fashion, from textiles to gown composition reflecting the times to reading lists on top fashion designers and style moments.
TORONTO, MUMBAI & NEW YORK: Women’s Day Live
This multi-venue global benefit concert and international music festival that celebrates more than 100 years of progress for the women of the world. Millions of celebrants join local International Women’s Day celebrations around the world and experience a live simulcast of the concerts broadcast worldwide from Toronto, New York, and Mumbai. Some organizations are also hosting live watch events and Blabs to join in the festivities, March 8 and throughout the weekend.
Can’t make it to this year’s festivities? Next year’s will be held in select cities around the world March 11, 2017.