Each year Global Traveler conducts in-depth surveys of its readers.The evidence is clear — the number of female business travelers is ever increasing. So, in an effort to settle the age-old debate — whether female business travelers are still treated differently from males — Global Traveler, joined by the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong and Briggs & Riley, set out to find out what is the most difficult challenge facing female business travelers today.

More than 1,000 female business travelers replied, with mixed responses. Some women believe the differences are great while others believe no difference exists; still others wish for more travel products designed with the female traveler in mind. The contest, which ran online from Sept. 1 through Oct. 31, 2009, helped provide a voice to the ever-growing female business travel population. Melanie Carter’s voice rose above the rest.

Carter is the director of business healthcare solutions at Cook Medical. In her position, she focuses on business issues and solutions affecting hospitals today. In any given week, Carter can be found on an airplane, jetting to various destinations throughout the world. When not traveling for work, Carter enjoys tennis, reading, winetasting and, of course, leisure travel. She resides in San Francisco.

In addition to the first-time title of Female Global Traveler of the Year, Carter will receive a four-night stay in a Plateau Suite at the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, including spa treatments at Plateau Spa and dinner for two at Thai & Grill Restaurant. She will also be awarded a set of Briggs & Riley Baseline luggage.

The Winning Essay

I recently found myself stuck flying economy class. A couple that wanted to trade a middle seat for my aisle seat approached me. They demanded that I, the young girl perceived to be in college, should give up my seat. Without emotion, I calmly told them that as a frequent traveler my preference is the aisle and I wouldn’t be able to accommodate them. They began complaining and heckling me for my “un-ladylike” behavior.

I had two choices: I could give up the one comfort I truly appreciate as a business traveler or I could say no. My right to say no is small in comparison to the other sacrifices I make for my career. In the end, I stayed true to my preference and myself. It was liberating.

The challenge facing women travelers today is a classic case of perception, whether it is being perceived as the nice young girl who will surrender her seat without objection or being perceived as a trust fund baby by the businessman sitting next to you in first class. The perception can be overcome by standing up for our preferences, holding our own in tumultuous times and maintaining a sense of dignity while demanding what is rightfully ours.