English 
Updated on February 26th, 2025
Did you wonder where I’d gone?
Apologies for the lack of ceremony but last week I changed my weekly email day. From now on you can expect to hear from me on a Tuesday instead of a Monday.
But why? I hear you cry… plaintively!
Just because I figure that many of you, like me, have stuff to deal with on a Monday. My theory is that by sending on a Tuesday, you will have eased yourself into a new week. My bright, shiny email will pop into your Inbox when you’re a bit more relaxed. You’ll grab a coffee, push yourself back in your chair and join me to escape the real world a little and dream of travel.
Well, that’s the theory anyway!
So, are you sitting comfortably? Then let’s begin…
I’ve written a few times recently about my refocus on the transformative power of travel and this week I thought I’d expand a little on the HOW.
If you set your intentions and plan a trip to be transformational, there are many ways that it can change how you see the world, how you see yourself, and how you see your place within the world too.
So, here are just a few ideas on what makes travel such a powerful tool for change:
Cultural Immersion
Participating in local customs, festivals, and traditions provides a deep understanding of different cultures. Homestays with locals particularly offer a fascinating insight into their way of life. For example, staying with a family in their home on Lake Titicaca, Peru was an unforgettable opportunity. To learn more about the experience, check out my blog post HERE.
Challenging Comfort Zones
I wrote a bit about this the other week, but it is impossible to grow without stretching beyond what you believe you are capable of. The obvious way to do this is through the physical challenge of adventure activities such as hiking, scuba diving, ziplining or skydiving. However, solo travel in general is unbeatable to foster independence and self-confidence. You can read all about this and the many other benefits of venturing into the world alone using THIS LINK.
Reflection and Mindfulness
Have you ever tried a digital detox? Travelling is a great way of enforcing one due to the challenges in staying connected. Nowadays we rely so much on always being online, that it sometimes leaves us a little lost when we can’t be. But disconnecting from technology encourages mindfulness and presence in the moment.
I remember when I first arrived in Cuba and back then (I believe things have now got easier) you could only connect to wifi through buying an access code and going to a designated “wifi zone”. These were usually local parks.
What initially felt like a huge inconvenience, became an opportunity to observe and to engage more in what was going on around us. By the time I left Cuba, I felt so much more connected to myself and my surroundings, even though I had no idea what was going on in the world generally. It left me feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and a lot more in control. I chose when to let things in, rather than having it always at my fingertips.
Learning Opportunities
I have long been a believer that “every day is a school day” and travel only enhances this. There is always so much to learn about different cultures by using your observation skills and a curious mind. But something more formal like learning a new language can enhance cognitive skills and cultural appreciation.
I also have the belief that food is inextricably linked to culture too so taking a cookery class is a great way to learn a skill, enrich your knowledge, and tastebuds at the same time. An art class, a history tour or learning some of the local dance moves can also be transformative. Check out my post on learning salsa in Cuba for a few of my mishaps and growth along the way.
Connection with Nature
If you’ve been here a while you will also know that I am a huge fan of spending time in nature and how rejuvenating that can be for the mind and body. In addition, it can help you foster a deeper connection to the environment.
So, what do you think? Have you got any examples to share about your experiences and how has travel changed you? Hit reply to this email to let me know or connect via your social method of choice (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, Threads or LinkedIn) to give me all the details.
And while you’re at it, I am off for a week in Madeira, so if you’ve been, please send me through any recommendations you have for what to do, where to go and what not to miss. I can’t wait to report back on this one. Thank you in advance.
This week over on YouTube, I am a little closer to home but a long time ago as I revisit some unseen footage from the cutting room floor. Laugharne is a small village in West Wales with a big history. In my latest video, I take a short walking tour of the village, discovering Laugharne Castle and the home of its famous inhabitant, poet Dylan Thomas.
As you will no doubt realise when you watch the video, I’m no expert on his work but I enjoyed spending an hour or so exploring his hometown, peeking through the window of his boathouse, and going in search of his grave. You can check it out for yourself HERE.
My favourite tour company has another sale on! Until the end of June, G Adventures is offering savings of up to 20% on selected trips departing by 31 October 2024, and 15% on departures between 1 November and 15 December, 2024.
And finally, for those based in the UK. A great way to save money on travel with your everyday spending is to collect points on your credit card. I have a British Airways Amex card for which I earn AVIOS points on every £ spent, as well as a FREE voucher for me and a companion each year (if I hit a certain spending level. This year we are off to Namibia for free in October). Currently they have an offer of double AVIOS points (that’s 12,000) if you use the link HERE before 2nd July. I get a bonus too, just so we are clear and obviously there a couple of stipulations too. Just check all the details before you commit.
Until next time,
Safe Travels
Sue x
This newsletter may contain affiliate links. By using these, Sue Where Why What may receive a small commission for which I say thank you, but you will not pay any extra charges for this. My opinions remain my own.
More of my Adventures…
Blog – An Amazing 2 Day Homestay on Lake Titicaca Why it needs to be on Your Peru Intinerary
Blog – Havana Salsa Lessons, Learning about Dance and Embracing Life in Cuba
Video – Laugharne, Wales A Walking Tour around Dylan Thomas’ Home Town
🏠 For accommodation, I use Booking.com. They have their Genius loyalty scheme which is easy to progress through the levels for better discounts and inclusions.
🚍 For tours and activities, my preferred supplier is Get Your Guide.
🗺️ For multi day or week tours, check out G Adventures. I used them for trips in Costa Rica, Peru, and Galapagos.
🤞 I would never leave home without travel insurance. With Safety Wing you can take out an annual policy and pay monthly. This takes the hassle out of having to remember for us regular travellers.
🛫 For cheap flights, check out Skyscanner or join Jacks Flight Club which scans the internet for error fares (UK only).
🧳 For luggage storage on your travels, I recommend the service by Bounce.
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