The world of travel has evolved tremendously over the last few years with more women than ever taking to the roads and skies to explore the globe. But while women travel for much the same reason as men, they usually have different outlooks and expectations, not to mention concerns.

"There are certain things we have to worry about, especially if it's a solo trip," says Piyalak Nakayodhin, editor of the recently launched pocketbook, "Bannathikarn Thod Muak" ("Editor Traveller"), in which six female magazine editors narrate their trips to various destinations around the globe.

"We seem to have very different point of views from men when we hit the road," adds Piyalak. "The writers travelled for work, but for the book, they have chosen to tell their stories as ordinary travellers. I hope their unique perspectives will inspire women who are hesitating to follow their dreams."

"Bannathikarn Thod Muak" is in fact a sequel to FullStop's bestseller "Woman Traveller", a how-to guide aimed at helping women prepare for journeys. Topics cover trip planning, packing and tips for safety as well as advice on shopping.

In the new book, Nisarat Sitasuwan, editor of the Travel Around the World (Tiewroblok) magazine relates her gastronomic pleasures while on business trips. She's enjoyed spicy falafel in remote Egyptian market towns and eaten nondescript noodles at Bali's street-side stalls.

She says one way of telling if a local restaurant is good is to look at the state of the tablecloth. If it's stylish and elegantly draped, diners should be in for a treat. Travellers on a shoestring can save on food - and possible medical bills - by shopping at supermarkets rather than risk buying pre-cooked meals from local hawkers.

Nisarat also offers advice on interacting with the local populace.

"Don't just assume it's okay to take a photo," she says. "It's polite to ask for permission first. Most of the time they will agree, and you'll get much nicer pictures that way."

Rungsima Kasikranund, editor-in-chief of Elle Decoration, loves Paris and waxes lyrical about the City of Lights. A frequent visitor to the city, the editor also slips in her personal views about the city, plus the names of her favourite places to stay and visit.

Prayer Kavitanon of Seventeen (Thailand) writes about how the imposing grandeur of Borobudur in Indonesia impressed her.

Praew's Chantana Yuthanaphum recalls magical moments in Salzburg, Austria, and Issaraporn Dejvichienkamkerng of Expression writes about her trip to Poland, describing her emotions during a visit to the former Auschwitz concentration camp.

Sruangmon Sidhisamarn, executive editor of Mother & Care, took her two sons to Luang Prabang in Vientiane, despite warnings from her friends that the historical capital might not be suitable for kids due to its lack of theme parks and shopping malls.

"But we had a wonderful time," says Sruangsamon. "The boys were excited about everything, from the temples to the scenery and from the food to the animals. That proves a family trip can be successful no matter the destination. It's important that children have good memories of travelling with their parents."

Piyalak closes the book with a chapter about her solo trip to Ireland, a country on which she is hooked.

She describes her trip as spontaneous, venturing out in the countryside and often having to hitchhike back to town.

"But it was a wonderful adventure," she says. "I hope more women will be motivated to hit the road. With the preparation they can get by reading both our books, I think they will have a good time travelling.

"When you travel, you get to know more about yourself and that's a trip in itself."

"Bannathikarn Thod Muak" and "Woman Traveller" are available in all leading bookstores. Don't forget to look through the hole in the books for a new perspective.

 Sirin P Wongpanit

 The Nation