Why do we travel?

We all have a different reason to go out and see the world. For some, traveling offers a brief reprieve from the monotony of the nine to five. It’s a chance to unwind, relax, and reenergize before heading back to work. For others, traveling is all about new experiences. It’s an opportunity to see new customs, new cultures, and new parts of the world.

Yes, these experiences are worthwhile. They can lead to lifelong memories and more than enough content to fill your social media feed. But what if traveling had the power to transform your life? What if your trip had such a profound impact on you that your life was changed forever?

Traditionally, luxury travel revolved around keeping travelers in their comfort zones. Yes, people were traveling to amazing places and exotic parts of the world. Yet they were only dipping their toes into other cultures. They were eating, sleeping, and living in familiar circumstances. They were happy to forego the road less traveled in favor of a five-star hotel.

Now? More travelers are seeking out transformational travel than ever before. They want to dive head-first into new cultures. They yearn for new experiences that can change their perspective. Bain & Company released a market study on the worldwide luxury market in October 2017. The market as a whole showed 5% improvement over 2016. What contributed to this growth? The desire for new experiences.

It’s no longer enough to have the latest goods or the trendiest items. People value experiences that can shift their worldview and enhance their lives.

But how do we transform our lives through travel? Transformation doesn’t always come from an “aha moment” or mind-altering epiphany. Transformative travel comes from completely letting go and embracing something new. Our outlook is vastly different when we go somewhere that allows us a new sensory experience. Seeing temples from the 13th century, going on safari, being feet away from a herd of elephants in their natural habitat, admiring artwork from the time of the Renaissance, visiting the local fish market in Tokyo, snorkeling with sea lions. Any of these encounters requires courage and a willingness to let go.

The unexpected benefits that come from meeting someone who was raised differently than ourselves and may not follow the same beliefs, political views, or religion that we have become accustomed to is what makes travel so exceptional. Our daily thoughts and habits become challenged, allowing us to self-reflect and open our hearts to the differences that may have appeared to divide us. We all want the same thing, we want a connection, with the earth, within ourselves and most of all with other humans. We become united through the relationships we make along the way, whether in your own neighborhood or on the other side of the globe.

One of my most transformative moments came on my recent trip to New Zealand. This was one of my all-time favorite trips. There’s no denying that New Zealand is one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. The dramatic scenery alone is enough to make a trip to New Zealand worthwhile. What made my trip truly memorable, however, was embracing the “Kiwi Spirit”. The outgoing, fearless nature of locals inspired me to dive deeper into my passion for adventure. I would never have pictured myself skydiving or bungee jumping off the Kawarau Bridge. By embracing the Kiwi Spirit, I found an inner confidence that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

I find those who have a strong interest in travel and take the time to do so tend to be incredibly
compassionate. They may have their non-negotiables when it comes to travel, but they are inspired by
experiences rather than materials. With travel also comes the unpredictable components that are outside of our control. These situations help prepare us for this roller coaster we call life and help us to manage how we react to unexpected circumstances in life.

Some particularly seek out Transformative travel by looking at opportunities for travel that they know will be a catalyst for a deeper connection, while increasing their awareness of what exists far outside of their comfort zone and usual every day experience. A great way to give back and really remove yourself from influences and influencers to see who you truly are is by traveling solo and taking part in volunteerism travel. This has been a unique way to see the world in its truth while providing authenticity to travel while proving to be rewarding and eye opening for those opting in for this type of unique life-altering type of travel.

A great partner of ours is ME to WE, they are an innovative social enterprise that provides products that make an impact, empowering people to change the world with their everyday consumer choices. This organization who we are pleased to partner with helps to empower people to transform local and global communities by shifting from “me” thinking to “we” acting.

When planning for clients I always keep the following phrase front of mind:

I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Allow us to get to know you better & determine what type of travel is right for you and how you may have a great impact and how travel may provide a deep impact on you. We would love to help curate a unique travel experience for you, while the transformative experience will happen organically on your own, this comes from times when we least expect it as well, but be a part in planning off the beaten path and authentic should you be seeking something different.

Contact us below to setup a time to speak about planning your travels, near or afar.