Just say ‘Yes’!

Updated on February 26th, 2025

A few weeks ago, I wrote about how travel can change your life (if you missed it, hit reply and I’ll send it again). From broadening your perspective to enhancing your self-confidence and creativity. But the change can only be achieved by engaging in purposeful, mindful, and immersive travel experiences. By setting clear intentions, you can achieve personal growth and create lasting, positive changes in your life.

This week, I thought I’d focus on some of the key elements you need to include to make a trip transformational. So, without further ado, make sure you have the time and space in your schedule for the following: 

Purposeful Planning
Set clear intentions about what you want to achieve from your travel experience and why. Stick to these when you are planning your itinerary to ensure you are giving yourself the best chance of success. Once you have decided on your destination, do your research and plan activities that align with these goals.

Be Open-Minded
Embrace new experiences, be open to trying different things and stepping out of your comfort zone. Be curious but respectful about the different cultures you encounter on the journey. When I was in Indonesia many years ago, one of my fondest memories was when I was hiking and stumbled across a local christening. We went over to investigate the music being piped onto our path and were welcomed in with open arms. While the guys I was enjoyed the experience from the sidelines, I accepted the invite to join their traditional dancing circles. I was a bit awkward and self-conscious, but the invited guests seemed thrilled to have me there and at least I gave them a bit of entertainment with my clumsy attempts to join in!

Engagement with Locals
On that note… and the same trip, I was also lucky enough to be invited to two weddings. One I went to as the guest of a guy who worked at my local café, the other, while on a tour of remote Siberut Island. At the first, after feeling I had a woefully inadequate wardrobe for the occasion, I ended up sitting cross-legged on the floor next to the bride and groom. They loved practicing their English, while I nervously negotiated my way around not making a fool of myself while dining. 

At the second, they sacrificed a chicken! (The photo at the top is of me and the groom). 

Wherever you end up, interacting with local people can help you gain deeper insights into their culture and way of life. You can read more about all my Indonesian experiences HERE. 

Mindfulness and Reflection
Stay present, be fully engaged in the moment and savour each experience. Keep your eyes and ears open to opportunities. Nowadays it is so easy to get distracted and engrossed in phones and technology. I rarely use earphones while travelling, partly for safety reasons (I want to be alert for what is happening around me), but also so I don’t miss any gems. Give yourself time and space to reflect regularly. Note down what you are seeing, learning and how you feel about these experiences.

Record Your Experiences
I have long been an advocate of keeping a travel journal and have them dating back to my first trip to Africa in 1992. The more you can reflect on not just the what you are doing but how it makes you think and feel, the more you will learn about yourself from the experiences you are having. But it is not just writing, photography and videography are great ways to capture moments visually to revisit and reflect on later. After all, why do you think I started a YouTube channel? You don’t need to share it with anyone, but with technology allowing us to have a recording of everything at our fingertips, why not use it in any way that works best for you?

On that note….

I always take a notebook on any journey, and still prefer it to using a phone or laptop. I find with a notebook, it allows me to focus rather than being distracted by what else I have access to. Also, from a safety perspective, riding on public transport can be a great opportunity for reflection. I can keep my expensive stuff away from prying eyes until I feel comfortable to bring it out, while noting everything I want to say in my journal. To read more about my safety tips for travelling, check out my posts on hotel safety HERE and click the link at the bottom of this email for more general advice. 

So, what would you add to this list? Or what unexpected local events have you got involved in om your travels? Hit reply to this email to let me know or connect via your social method of choice (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, Threads or LinkedIn) to give me all the details.

This week, over on YouTube, I’m back for my final video from Tasmania, Australia. Join me & my sister, Al as we embark on the ultimate adventure with our perfect 7-day road trip itinerary! Discover the must-see stops, hidden gems, and breathtaking landscapes that make Tasmania a road tripper’s paradise. Beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, fantastic wine & delicious food. Check it all out for yourself HERE. 

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 – 15 Top Safety Tips For Travelling Alone

Blog – 16 Essential Hotel Safety Tips for Women Travelling Alone

Video – Ultimate 7 Day Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary – Must See Stops & Hidden Gems

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