Written by Jedediah Watkins
Read Time: 10 minutes
Embarking on a Journey: The Art of Planning and Purpose
Planning a journey is more than just booking flights and
packing bags; it's a thoughtful process that involves choosing a destination,
timing your travel, deciding on activities, understanding your motivations, and
ultimately shaping who you want to become through the experience. For me travel
has been at the forefront of my mind since childhood, engulfed in travel media
and the pull of worlds for me to discover. The places and people full of so
much, with the yearning to be there, to be a part of something different to me.
Travel grants the opportunity for a whole new understanding of the world and
the way it works if you truly let yourself be in it. Deciding where to go is only
the first step of many for those who wish to truly grow from their voyage!
Join me as we delve into the intricacies of planning a
meaningful journey that aligns with your dreams, the world you are stepping in
to, and the unknown.
Choosing a Location: Where Dreams Take Flight
The first step in planning a journey is choosing the right
destination. The world is vast and diverse, offering a myriad of options that
cater to different interests, budgets, and experiences. From exotic tropical
islands to bustling metropolises, each destination holds its unique allure and
charm. Depending on where you’re from and what experiences you have will dictate
what is exotic to you. For me coming from the endlessly grey and rainy London,
to find daily snowfall in Toronto was something completely foreign, a thing I could
only dream of. To search out new experiences is innately human, what is that
new experience for you.
Considerations such as accessibility, cost, cultural
familiarity, and personal connections play a crucial role in narrowing down
your options. Are you drawn to the sun-kissed beaches of Bali, the ancient buildings
of Machu Picchu, or the bustling streets of Tokyo? Each destination comes with
its own price tag, travel ease, cultural immersion opportunities, and potential
for personal growth.
Reflect on what makes a particular destination stand out to
you. If you’re going for a long time you might wish to be somewhere that feels
a little bit like home, it definitely was the reason me and my best friend chose
Toronto. To be somewhere we could find work and speak to almost everybody we
came across.
Have you been there before and want to revisit cherished
memories, or are you seeking a completely new experience? Do you speak the
language or feel comfortable navigating the culture, or are you eager to step
out of your comfort zone and embrace unfamiliar territories?
Consider reaching out to friends, acquaintances, or fellow travelers who have visited your chosen destination. Their insights and experiences can provide valuable perspectives and tips that enhance your journey.
Choosing a Time to Travel: Aligning Moments and Memories
Timing is everything when it comes to planning a journey.
Consider your personal commitments, job responsibilities, family obligations,
and any significant events that might clash with your travel plans. Are you
willing to take time off work for this journey, or can you plan it around
existing breaks and holidays? Are you gone for so long that you won’t be able
to continue your current job?
Timing is so important, making that leap is the best
decision I have ever made but I did miss a birth in the family, something I
would have treasured for the rest of my life. Yes I travel home whenever I can
to see the little buddy but I really am missing those moments that will never return.
Make sure you are truly convicted to your decision or you’ll resent your distance
when the big moments happen and you miss them.
The choice of season can also impact your travel experience.
Do you prefer the vibrant energy of summer, with its opportunities for water
sports, beach adventures, and outdoor explorations? Or are you enticed by the
serene landscapes and snow-filled adventures of winter, such as skiing,
snowboarding, and cozy cabin retreats?
Currently being in Mexico during the spring is fantastic. It
hasn’t rained once in the three weeks I have been here, but the heat is intense
and makes midday activities a lot more difficult. When talking to locals they say
they prefer summer as there is more moisture in the air and it isn’t as dry.
Try to find the perspectives of people from where you are travelling to, it’ll
make a world of difference for timing your trip and knowing what to pack.
Stay informed about any political or social developments in your chosen destination. Are there any safety concerns, travel advisories, or cultural events that might influence your decision? Researching the local customs, traditions, and current affairs can help you navigate unfamiliar territories with confidence and respect. Arriving on the Easter weekend was fantastic, it meant the streets were quieter and I could get a grip of the neighbourhood without having to navigate thousands of people.
Choosing What You Are Going to Do: Crafting Experiences
and Memories
Once you've selected a destination and determined the timing
of your journey, it's time to plan your activities and experiences. Consider
your travel style—are you an adventurous spirit seeking adrenaline-pumping
activities like mountain climbing, skydiving, or scuba diving? Or do you prefer
a more laid-back approach, immersing yourself in local culture, cuisine, and
everyday life?
I’ve spent a lot of time relaxing and going about as if I
lived in Mexico City. It’s been a fantastic way to immerse myself in Mexican
life and it hasn’t been energy taxing. I can still enjoy the unique things of
Mexico City without rushing around. Especially in places where the atmosphere is
so different of the altitude is a lot higher, you want to have a slow immersion
into experiences, too much and you’ll be sidelined for a week.
Think about your budget and financial resources. Are you planning to earn money while traveling through freelance work, remote jobs, or entrepreneurial ventures? Do you have enough savings to sustain your journey and cover unexpected expenses? The world is so small now through the internet you might be able to continue work while travelling (check the laws for international work and if your job allows it).
Explore the possibilities of structured experiences, such as language schools, volunteer programs, cultural exchanges, or wellness retreats. These immersive opportunities can deepen your understanding of the destination, forge meaningful connections with locals, and leave a lasting impact on your journey. I’m heading to surf school in a few weeks and couldn’t be more excited, learning the language while honing my skills on the board. Truly once in a life opportunity.
Why Are You Traveling: Unveiling Inner Motivations
The essence of travel lies in its transformative power—the
ability to broaden perspectives, challenge assumptions, and ignite a sense of
wonder and discovery. Ask yourself why you're embarking on this journey. Are
you seeking new experiences, pushing boundaries, and expanding your horizons?
Are you yearning to break free from old routines, habits, and comfort zones?
Simply changing your location, time zone, diet can be transformative
and show you sides to you that you didn’t know existed. Be mindful and purposeful
in your actions and movements throughout new locations. You will be challenged
and this will push you into discomfort, if you aren’t prepared for this you
might want to head home or take with you negative emotions or memories of the
place you’re staying in. Remember wherever you are is not there for you, it is
a home for many people and they exist within it the way they exist. It isn’t on
you to try to change places to the way you see fit or regular, mold yourself to
the new surroundings and you’ll be amazed how immersed you can get.
Travel can be a form of escapism, a way to disconnect from the familiar and embrace the unknown. It can also be a journey of self-discovery, a quest to uncover hidden passions, talents, and aspirations. Embrace the journey as an opportunity to reflect, introspect, and redefine your priorities, values, and goals. Make sure you’re ready for it all.
Who Do You Want to Be: The Quest for Self-Definition
The ultimate question in planning a journey is not just
where you're going, but who you want to be along the way. Travel has the power
to shape identity, perspective, and character. Are you seeking to be an
adventurer, a storyteller, a cultural explorer, or a global citizen?
Let your inner aspirations guide your journey. If you crave adventure and excitement, seek out destinations and experiences that challenge your limits and ignite your passions. If you value understanding and connection, immerse yourself in communities, engage with locals, and embrace diverse perspectives. Remember to take yourself openly and to be ready to do things you never knew you were capable of.
Traveling is not just about ticking off bucket-list
destinations; it's about embracing the journey as a transformative experience
that leaves an indelible mark on your soul. Define your travel narrative, set
intentions, and let the world unfold its wonders as you embark on a journey of
self-discovery, growth, and endless possibilities. Bon voyage!
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