Like a lot of people, Tess Millhollon turned to travel while looking for direction. A trip to Australia led to her career in travel.

While overseas, Millhollon stayed with locals a lot of the time. Seeing cost savings, experiencing local culture and understanding safety concerns, Millhollon set out to create a platform for solo women travelers.

Upon her return, Millhollon published Sherbet Skies, her memoir sharing her journey in Australia. Honest and inspirational, she recounts challenging moments as well as times of pure joy.

© Tess Millhollon

She also created HerHouse, a platform with a mission stating, “Together we will make travel easier, safer, and more affordable for women all over the world.” HerHouse connects solo women travelers with available background-checked hosts around the world. HerHouse is about the safety of women travelers as well as the hosts.

In our Talking Travel interview, Millhollon explained the interaction between host and guest during the stay is up to the women. Sometimes the host simply provides housing. Other times, the host acts as a tour guide. All is agreed upon by both parties.

Similarly, there are exceptions to solo travelers. Companion travelers, including children, partners, friends and pets, are allowed, but must be approved by hosts.

Along with explaining HerHouse, Millhollon discussed how travel changed her and how she hopes she impacts travel. She also spoke of the freedom and empowerment of solo traveling.

Talking Travel is an interview series on Global Traveler. Subscribe to the GT YouTube channel to be notified of all future interviews and other travel-related videos.

— John Wroblewski, online writer