The Conversation, The Conversation, Women-only holidays

The Conversation

The Conversation

Women-only holidays

July 14, 2025

26 minutes

Available for over a year

Two women from Nigeria and the Czech Republic speak to Ella Al-Shamahi about what it's like to lead adventurous expeditions for other women to countries not usually on the tourist trail.

Lenka Hrabalová is an expedition guide and academic from the Czech Republic. Her PhD focused on the destruction of cultural heritage in the Muslim world. Lenka uses her knowledge to lead adventurous expeditions across the Middle East and North Africa, many exclusively for women. She is the author of several books including Sahara Stories and Mosaic of Iran.

Temi Popo from Nigeria has always loved to travel. She was inspired by her grandmother’s legacy as a pioneering diplomat and educator, as well as having lived in seven countries. Temi is the founder of Girls Trip Tours, a travel company that aims to transform the tourism industry in Africa by centring women. They create travel experiences that empower women while uplifting local communities throughout Africa.

Produced by Emily Naylor

(Image: (L) Temi Popo credit Khalipha Nkloko. (R) Lenka Hrabalová credit Petr Florián.)