My travel style revolves around five core behaviors: adaptability, flexibility, patience, humbleness, & gratitude. Without these traits, travel can become tedious, tiring, and even seem like an obligation – something you have to do because...well...you are already there.

 

Because of those traits, strict lists of things to do and see when traveling bother me. Though I often have an idea of what I want to see and a basic itinerary sketched out, both usually get modified because, once on the ground, things change. Sometimes really fast. Adaptability. Flexibility.

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While I enjoy staying in posh places and high-class flying, for me, staying close-to-the-ground remain key aspects of my travel philosophy. For example, although I would never sacrifice health or safety when traveling, sleeping under the stars, in my car, staying in hostels, or sharing a Bedouin tent is not a big deal. Those experiences serve to enhance my overall appreciation for the privilege of travel, allowing me to savor times of extravagance. Gratitude.

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As a Traveler and peripatetic topophiliac who likes to just see what they see, I relish any chance to wander and explore. Whether that means driving a foreign vehicle, riding a train, hopping a local bus, canoeing a river, riding a camel, or hiking through a jungle, I believe being with/in a landscape remains the key to truly appreciating it. Humbleness. Patience. Gratitude.

 

My travel style also includes finding an effective yet “light” packing strategy, like what I usually pack for most any excursion. Once you begin packing less/lighter, you’ll be surprised how little you actually need, even for longer trips. Humbleness. Flexibility.

 

Finally, view some of my general tips for successful travel. Talk to people. Learn from their experiences. But remember: the most important souvenir might not always be what you think, and the ability to travel often rests in arranging priorities. Gratitude. Humbleness.