Why Intentional Travel Matters More Than Ever

Spending With Purpose in an Uncertain Economy

It’s no secret that many people are being more thoughtful about how and where they spend their money right now. Rising costs, economic uncertainty, and shifting priorities have made “mindful spending” more than a buzzword but a way of life.

At Cherish, we don’t believe in spending money you don’t have or saying yes to experiences that don’t align with your reality. But we do believe that how you spend your money matters, and that experiences when chosen intentionally are one of the most meaningful places to invest.

Because some material purchases fade quickly. While others spent on experiences and creating memories stay with you forever.

Why Experiences Hold Their Value

When budgets tighten, many people instinctively cut experiences first. But research and lived experience tell us something important: meaningful experiences tend to deliver a longer-lasting return than material things.

Here’s why intentional travel continues to matter, even (and especially) in uncertain times:

1. Experiences Create Lasting Memories, Not Clutter

A thoughtfully planned trip doesn’t end when you unpack your bags. The conversations, moments of awe, shared laughter, and personal breakthroughs often become reference points you carry with you for years. These memories don’t depreciate; they deepen over time.

2. Travel Strengthens Relationships

Time together is one of the most valuable (and increasingly rare) resources we have. Whether it’s friends, family, or a community of like-minded women, shared experiences foster connection in a way few other things can. Travel creates uninterrupted space to be present with the people who matter most.

3. Intentional Travel Supports Real People

Where your money goes matters. Choosing experiences that prioritize locally owned businesses, women-led partners, and community-rooted guides ensures your spending supports real livelihoods, not just large corporations. It’s a way to be thoughtful and ethical with your resources.

Being Frugal Doesn’t Mean Saying No to Everything

Being financially responsible isn’t about deprivation. It’s about alignment.

Intentional travel asks different questions:

• Does this experience reflect my values?

• Will this bring meaning or connection into my life?

• Is this something I’ll remember years from now?

For many women, the answer to these questions is yes. Not because the trip is extravagant, but because it’s purposeful and has a meaningful impact on you as the traveler and the communities in which you visit.

Some Cherish travelers plan far in advance. Others gather a group to share costs. Many choose fewer trips overall, but make them more meaningful. There’s no one “right” way to include experiences in your life, but there is a conscious one.

The Cherish Approach to Thoughtful Travel

At Cherish, we design trips that champion women with intention behind every trip.

Every journey is built around three guiding principles:

Intention

We start with why. Why this trip, why now, and what you hope to gain from it. Whether it’s rest, celebration, reconnection, or clarity, the experience is designed to meet women where they are and provide a truly meaningful vacation, not a generic itinerary.

Local Community

We partner with women-owned and locally run hotels, guides, and businesses in every destination. This ensures your investment directly supports the communities you’re visiting, creating a ripple effect far beyond the trip itself.

Connection

We believe that when you travel to new places, it helps take you out of your routine. This lowers the walls that you’ve built to help you show up authentically and vulnerably. When our travelers are in this headspace, amazing friendships and connections are built. With yourself, fellow travelers, and the communities you visit.

Ease

We handle the logistics thoughtfully and efficiently so you’re not paying for unnecessary extras or having to spend your precious time researching and planning a meaningful trip. All you have to do is show up, then you’re free to focus on what matters most: being present.

Travel as a Meaningful Choice, Not an Impulse

Cherish trips aren’t about impulse spending or luxury for luxury’s sake. They’re about choosing experiences that align with your values and your season of life.

For some women, that means:

• Planning a private trip with friends or family instead of exchanging gifts

• Marking a milestone with an experience rather than an object

• Prioritizing connection and rest after years of putting others first

• Travel becomes less about escape and more about an intentional way to decompress, relax, rejuvenate, and more.

Making Space for What Truly Matters

In times like these, it’s natural to reassess what’s worth saying yes to.

At Cherish, we believe experiences that foster connection, growth, and presence are among the most meaningful investments you can make—not because they’re extravagant, but because they’re enduring.

When chosen thoughtfully, travel isn’t about spending more.

It’s about spending better.

Start Planning With Intention

Whether you’re dreaming about a future journey, considering a private trip for your group, or simply exploring what’s possible, we’re here to help you plan a well-deserved vacation responsibly and intentionally.

Book a free travel chat to explore how meaningful travel can fit into your life—now or in the future.

Intentional Travel: FAQs

Is travel still responsible in an uncertain economy?

Yes! When approached intentionally, travel can be a meaningful way to support economies around the world even when we are sure what is coming. Thoughtful planning, advance budgeting, and choosing experiences that align with your values can make travel a meaningful and responsible choice.

Do Cherish trips work for different budgets?

We offer a range of destinations and formats, including private trips that allow groups to plan together and share costs. We’re always happy to explore options that fit your needs.

Why choose experiences over things?

Experiences often create longer-lasting emotional value, strengthen relationships, and support personal growth. This makes them a meaningful use of your financial resources.

How does Cherish support local communities?

We prioritize women, and locally owned partners in every destination, ensuring your travel investment supports real people in the places you visit.

How do I begin planning?

Start with a free travel chat. We’ll talk through your goals, timing, and budget to design an experience that feels aligned and intentional.

About Cherish

Cherish curates custom private trips and women’s-only small group tours around the world—each designed with intention, care, and connection at its core. Founded by women, for women, we believe travel is one of the most meaningful ways to invest in yourself, your relationships, and the world around you.