It is no secret that the nomadic lifestyle connects us with people around the world, but it is our cultural lens that obscures our perception of other people and cultures.
Why travel?
A tour guide once asked: why do you travel? Our group replied: to learn about a different culture, its history, its food, and its people.
People are at the center of meaningful travel experiences, and empathy can better connect these interactions. For me, it is the vegan lifestyle that beautifully compliments the nomadic one and has given me a stronger sense of empathy. How can we truly respect people when we're taught at a young age that some animals are here to eat and others to love? It is one of the first forms of discrimination taught (more information here). That’s why I align my actions with valuing both animal and human life. I challenge societal norms and better connect with other humans worldwide.
Is the Nomadic lifestyle for you? Spoiler: it’s for everyone.
What’s stopping you? Don’t let societal expectations, money, or fear hold you back (to the best of your ability).
Throw away societies' blueprint of life, university - career - money - family - material possessions. You must assess what you value in life. The nomadic lifestyle doesn't have one look, every nomad is on their journey. I started as your typical backpacker, working until I could move onto the next place. Then, I was a digital nomad who bounced between co-working spaces and road trips. Now, I have dipped my toes into my dream career, started university, travel regularly with my partner, and this year chose another beautiful city to call our temporary home. You’ll face life with curiosity and place value on experience rather than possessions. The world is a lot bigger outside your screen – unplug mainstream media, and see for yourself.
Thoughtful Travel
Culture is something we do. It helps us act in a familiar and accepted way. Though a lot can be unpacked about culture, I am defining it loosely. It heavily shapes how we perceive other cultures, like looking through your cultural lens (learn more here). It is easy for us to judge one's behaviour based on our perception of how they should behave. People can shape how we view the world. How we make these meaningful connections can only expand our definition of how life can be lived.
This stretches beyond culture as it's important to understand that one's identity is not defined by their culture, appearance, nor how they live their life. Be aware of your cultural lens, biases, and ethnocentricity. Approach travel thoughtfully, respectfully, and with a smile.
The nomad path doesn't look the same for everyone. Follow your own yellow brick road.
(please check the COVID restrictions where you are, be safe, wear a mask, wash your hands, and social distance)
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