Women-only travel guides

Women are the main vacation planners in 80 percent of households, the travel industry says, and the number of women who travel with female companions is on the upswing.

Two new books that cash in on the men-free mind-set provide ideas for excursions.

“50 Best Girlfriend Getaways in North America” revolves around themes, complete with tales of triumph from a cast of gal pals. Locales for happy times – birthday blowouts and reunions – outweigh places to go after you get dumped.

“I believe that women travel differently from men,” Bond writes. Men focus on sports and poker, she says; women want terrific food, comfy lodgings and stunning scenery.

Chapters vary from adventure escapes to retail therapy and spas – all to be done in three to six days. Bond lists resorts, hotels and favorite restaurants, plus about 20 travel companies that cater to women.

“Fly Solo” rates places on a 1-to-5 scale for culture, activities, weather and social interaction.

Williamson, founder of the online travel magazine Tango Diva, suggests people-meeting strategies, places to flirt and tours. Advice ranges from no-duh (take asthma medication if visiting a polluted city) to practical (don’t lug your raft to Moab, Utah, where outfitters are abundant).

Seven U.S. cities make the cut, including San Diego and Miami’s South Beach. But would you really go to Crested Butte, Colo., to spa-hop? And how many weeks’ pay will spas in St. Moritz, Switzerland, set you back?

This book isn’t geared toward the penny pincher, but rather the cautious spender who can afford a splurge.