Sara Ann Straw, CMP is a travel design and destination event expert with over 13 years of experience in travel and corporate events. With a passion for solo travel, Sara founded the Solo Travel Woman Society to bring together other women with similar interests and passions to form a community, share knowledge and empower one another. Sara is the owner of STW Planning, LLC and STW Boutique, the author of The Ultimate Solo Travel Woman Guide, and the host of The Solo Travel Woman Podcast.

My story

Hi friends! My name is Sara and I love to explore the world…solo.

Growing up, I was the definition of a daddy’s girl. I looked up to him and always went to him for advice. He made sure I knew not only how much I was loved but, how much he supported my dreams and aspirations. One of those dreams was to travel. As a marine, my father was able to explore many places around the world. He would share stories of his experiences and I would long to make travel memories of my own. As a child, travel wasn’t really something we did (minus some road trips to visit family). So, I knew that when I was old enough I was going to begin my worldly adventures.

Well, that was easier said than done. As an adult I would try to plan trips but, would often find myself with no one to travel with. And with no female solo travelers to gain inspiration from my dreams of travel felt out of reach. That was going to change!

After years of waiting, I decided for my 30th birthday, that I was going to push aside my fears and book my first solo trip. Where did I go? Greece and Turkey. This experience completely changed my life and inspired me to create a safe space for women to gain the knowledge, community, and empowerment to solo travel. I didn’t want any other woman waiting as long as I did or let fear hold them back from enriching their life and experiencing the world.

In 2019, the Solo Travel Woman blog was created to empower women with tips, safety information, and resources for solo travel. After an amazing year, I discovered a passion for personally coaching women and helping them live a life of passion and prosperity through solo travel. In 2020, the Solo Travel Woman brand expanded to include solo travel coaching and travel design for not only solo travelers but, couples and groups too.

In addition to my passion for travel, I also have over 13 years experience in strategic events and offer destination event & incentive travel services. I work with you to develop an event that integrates the culture, engages, and inspires those who attend, and allows you to focus your energies on what is necessary – your guests.

Enjoy exploring the site and I look forward to working with you!

Happy planning,

Sara Ann Straw, CMP, VEMM