Traveling is one of the best ways to experience new cultures, try something new, and expand your horizons. But sometimes we get roped into trying to do everything while we are in a new place or we end up sticking to what is comfortable. Both hinder the beautiful opportunity that traveling is. In this blog post, I will give eleven tips on how you can have travel intentionally in your adventures whether it is a business trip or vacation.
Limit the Pictures You Take
Especially with our smartphones, we love documenting every little thing we come across and taking photos from multiple angles. All this does is create an entire camera roll of photos you might never see again.
Instead, be more intentional about the photos you take, and get yourself up for just one photo. This way, you create a small album of curated images that remind you of your trip and what you did. Enjoy the moments you have and just take a few photos to remember them. Plus, you’ll save a lot of time and phone space when it comes to finding your favorites!
Learn the Language Basics
If you are going to a foreign country, the best thing you can do to travel intentionally is learn the language. Although learning an entire language is far-reaching, knowing some common and important phrases is helpful.
Not only does it show respect to the locals around you, but you will be able to enjoy your experiences more when you can be fully immersed. As a career-oriented woman, this plays in your favor as well. Now, you’ll be able to understand bits and pieces of conversation.
Pick Only One Sunivenor
We tend to want to buy all the amazing hand-crafted items around us but by the time we come back home, we never know what to do with them. Instead, pick one type of souvenir to get from every place you visit so you have a token without the unnecessary burden. I buy a keychain from every country I visit, something small that can add value to my collection without taking up space.
This way you can intentionally pick one item that speaks to you without getting sucked into the world of knick-knacks and consumerism.
Keep a Travel Journal
Rather than taking endless pictures or buying items you don’t need, keep a journal to document your adventures. You’ll remember your travels more vividly and can write about your emotions in a way nothing else but writing can capture.
This journal would be the best way to savor your memories when traveling and is more intentional than any photo or souvenir.
Buy from Local Places
From coffee shops to restaurants, clothing to beauty, try to buy from local shops as opposed to corporate chains. You can find KFC and Starbucks everywhere so try to find small businesses that can really give you a taste of the local culture.
Indulge in Local Food
Similar to the point before, research and find restaurants that serve authentic food in the place you are visiting. Take note of what the area is known for and go out of your way to try the most authentic version of it. We all love the food we are used to, but the only way to find a new favorite is by trying new things.
Walk Wherever You Can
The best way to get familiar with the area, immerse yourself in the culture, and find things to do is walking around. Whenever you can, and when safe to do so, walk to your destination or get a little lost along the way. You’ll be surprised by how much you uncover. This is one of my favorite ways to travel more intentionally.
Travel to Where You Know People
Whether you just graduated college or have an extensive network of colleagues, we are all fortunate enough to know many people from all walks of life. The best way to travel with intention is to visit the places where your friends grew up. They know the best food, nightlife, activities, and more. So if you are planning a trip, ask a friend or colleague to give their best suggestions. Better yet, travel together!
Take Only What You Need
Another way to travel intentionally is to minimize the items that you take with you. Stick to versatile products and clothes that you know you will use and leave the rest at home. There’s nothing worse than stressing over exploded products, overweight luggage, or how you’re going to transfer it all.
Plus, the more we bring, the more decisions we have to make each day about what to wear and use. As a result, our emotions and moods can quickly fall if something goes wrong. By sticking to a color palette, bringing items that you know work, and packing lightly, you save brain space to fill with wonderful travel memories.
Learn the History
If you want to travel intentionally, learn about the history and historic monuments of the place. These points have shaped the culture and the way people live. It is important to understand these moments and why they happened.
Take the time to learn and visit these places, to educate yourself, and understand what happened. You’ll then be able to see how these historic events have shaped the area you are visiting, and you’ll notice its influences wherever you go.
Embrace the Way of the Local
You will want to squeeze in as much exploring as you can each day, but take the time to experience the area like a local. Maybe, for a full day or just half a day, take the opportunity to live like a local. If you are in Europe, sit down to thoroughly enjoy your coffee or nap. If in Brazil, lean into the more laid-back way of life. We don’t always need to be running from one place to the next.
Final Thoughts
Intentional travel is all about taking a step back and seeing what can really benefit us in an intangible way. Whether it is personal or for work, there are always ways to tweak your travel plans to one that is more intentional and memorable. Next time you are planning a trip, try to incorporate one, or many, of these tips for traveling intentionally. Safe flight to your next destination!
With love,
Aditi <3
Aditi Rani – Figuring Out Life in Your Twenties
*Disclaimer: This is not professional advice. Some links are affiliate. By clicking and/or purchasing, I may receive a commission. It does not alter the price or change your buyer experience.