PUBLISHER & CO-FOUNDER
Matthew Ross
EDITOR & CO-FOUNDER
Kristina Smith
WEST COAST BUREAU
Mark Stanton
SOCIAL MEDIA
Maddy Ross
PARTNERSHIPS creative@wander-mag.com
CONNECT editor@wander-mag.com
Dear Reader,
Welcome to our latest issue, where we explore the fascinating world of nomadic travels and the joys of living on the road. Buckle up and get ready for a thrilling ride!
Have you ever wondered what it's like to live in a van? In this issue, we bring you firsthand stories from individuals who have chosen this unconventional lifestyle. Discover the motivations, challenges, and incredible experiences that come with living on the road. We dive deep into the why behind this lifestyle choice, exploring the freedom, simplicity, and sense of adventure that draws people to the van life community.
In this issue, we uncover the incredible ways in which travel can intersect with making a positive impact, and we feature an inspiring mom who turned her road trip into a successful business venture, proving that it's possible to blend entrepreneurship with the freedom of the open road. And for those planning their own extended road trips, we've enlisted certified Travel Coaches to provide expert guidance on crafting unforgettable experiences.
CONTRIBUTORS
Sahara Rose de Vore
Dustin Grinnell
Elizabeth Heath
Melanie Sue Hicks
Christopher Ludgate
Jocelyn Newman
Special Thanks
Tara Benson
Cover photo: © Emily Blanchard, Van Lifer
If you're seeking extraordinary travel experiences, look no further than Exodus Travels, a leading provider of premium adventures that cater to the adventurous spirit in all of us. From trekking through majestic landscapes to connecting with local cultures, Exodus offers a diverse range of thrilling itineraries for the intrepid traveller.
We also invite you to explore Spa Eastman in Quebec, a haven for wellness enthusiasts. Indulge in healing cuisine, relax in eco-friendly accommodations, and immerse yourself in rejuvenating spa treatments. It's the perfect destination to unwind and reconnect with yourself amidst nature's embrace.
For a unique retreat experience, head to the UK, where campervan getaways offer a blend of relaxation and offbeat adventure in nature. And finally, we invite you to relax in the rural design hotels of Italy, the perfect blend of rustic charm and contemporary elegance as you explore the Italian countryside.
We hope this issue sparks your wanderlust and inspires you to embrace the magic of life on the road. Safe travels!
MARKETING & CREATIVE Springfed Creative Inc. design@springfedcreative.ca
Warm regards,
KristinaSmith
VAN LIFERS REVEAL WHAT ATTRACTED THEM TO THE NOMADIC LIFESTYLE
BY DUSTIN GRINNELL
SOCIAL MEDIA DOESN’T ALWAYS DEPICT A REALISTIC VIEW OF WHAT IT’S LIKE TO LIVE AND WORK FULL-TIME IN A VAN OR RV. WHAT’S THE REALITY? IT’S HARD LIVING, VAN LIFERS TOLD US, BUT SO WORTH IT.
“OUR ONE-YEAR ROAD TRIP TURNED INTO FULL-TIME VAN LIFE, AND EVENTUALLY, WE BUILT A BRAND AROUND IRIE TO AURORA AND TURNED IT INTO A BUSINESS."
- DUSTIN & NOAMI @IRIETOAURORA
When Noami and Dustin Grevemberg first met, they were living in New Orleans, working 9-to-5 jobs, feeling unfulfilled, like they were living someone else's life.
“We met at a college football game and bonded over our love of travel and the outdoors,” says Noami. “I shared the idea of travelling the United States in a van and visiting all the national parks.”
An immigrant from Trinidad, Noami grew up watching documentaries about America’s national parks, like Yellowstone and Glacier. At the football game, she told Dustin she’d made a promise to visit as many parks as she could when she came to the country.
They started dating. Every chance they got, they’d escape New Orleans for the mountains, often travelling to Georgia to hike parts of the Appalachian Trail (AT). It was on the AT, during a multi-day hike in northern Georgia, when Dustin proposed to Noami.
Not long after, they both decided independently on the same day that they were going to buy a van and travel the country in it. “We came home from work and nervously told each other, ‘I have something to tell you,’” says Dustin. “‘No, I have something to tell you.’ ‘You go first.’ ‘No, you go first." "‘Remember when we talked about seeing the national parks in a van? Why don't we do that.’" And they did.
It was February 2016. They wanted to be on the road in the spring, so they gave themselves three months. They knew if they waited too long, they might talk themselves out of it. They searched online and found the van of their dreams, a Volkswagen Westfalia in Mobile, Alabama. They bought it on the spot, naming it Irie. A month later, they embarked on a road trip to Alaska to see the Aurora Borealis.
“Our one-year road trip turned into full-time van life, and eventually, we built a brand around Irie to Aurora and turned it into a business,” says Dustin.
Noami and Dustin are members of a growing number of people in the US who have chosen to ditch the traditional notion of living in a permanent residence to live in a van or RV. In 2019, the US Census Bureau estimated that over 140,000 people have chosen this alternative lifestyle.
“Van life,” as it’s called, is often glorified on the Internet. Many folks who live in their vehicles craft professionalgrade stories of themselves doing whatever they want, wherever they want, on Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok, and personal blogs. Owners throw open the back door of their vans to admire majestic views from their beds.
“Van life is presented online as all these pretty people in perfect vans in picturesque locations,” says Dustin. “Sometimes this is true, and that’s beautiful, but there’s definitely a romanticized view of van life on the internet. Real van life isn’t glamorous. It's raw, dirty, gritty. It’s tough.”
And yet, with all the challenges, most van lifers wouldn’t choose to live any other way. Despite the many difficulties and hardships van lifers face, they all say it’s worth it.
“WE'VE BEEN IN CRAZY WINDSTORMS WITH HAIL AND SNOW THAT CAME OUT OF NOWHERE. BUT THAT'S WHAT YOU HAVE TO DEAL WITH IF YOU’RE LIVING IN A VAN. ALL OF IT CHALLENGES YOU, BUT THAT'S ALSO WHAT’S SO EXCITING FOR US.”
"WE TAKE WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE ENVISIONING AND MAKE IT INTO A REALITY. IT GOES FROM AN EMPTY CARGO VAN, AND IT ROLLS OUT AS ONE OF OUR LITTLE, TINY, HOMEY, COZY, HOME-ON-WHEELS.”
- BETH & ERIC @ADVENTUREVANCAMP
Living in a vehicle makes you more vulnerable to the elements. Most van lifers say they constantly have to adapt to changing weather conditions—rain, snow, wind, or sand.
In 2019, Natalie Rodriquez quit her job as a chef and bought a van with her wife and photographer, Abigail Rodriquez. The two have been driving across the country for three years, “finding freedom in simple living,” their website says.
One night, Natalie was on her van’s rooftop deck watching fireflies and heat lightning when a powerful storm rolled in. Abi was asleep inside, so Natalie raced to get the awning down and put the chairs in the van as rain and lightning crashed around her.
“We've been in crazy windstorms with hail and snow that came out of nowhere,” says Abigail. “But that's what you have to deal with if you’re living in a van. All of it challenges you, but that's also what’s so exciting for us.”
Dustin and Noami chase the ideal climate—75 degrees and sunny—but it’s not always easy to find it and they often deal with rain, snow, and desert climates. “Our life is in the elements,” says Dustin. “It can be dirty, muddy, wet, cold, or hot. When it rains, when it's muddy or dusty, everything gets dirty.” But they love being in extreme environments. “It’s where the fun is,” says Dustin.
That’s why the couple only owns gear that can take a beating. “If the van breaks down and they have to do maintenance, it's rarely in a convenient location,” says Noami. “The conditions are usually extreme. Our first major breakdown, we blew a head gasket in Oregon and had to disassemble the engine and put it back together in blizzard conditions.”
When Eric and Beth first met, they shared their interests in alternative living, the outdoors, and having more freedom. They were smitten. On their first date, they visited a dealership to look at vans. They married four months after meeting and then embarked on a series of “crazy” adventures. Shortly after, they started Adventure Van Camp, building custom vans in a garage in the woods in Vancouver, WA.
You’ll find the married couple working on vans and RVs no matter the conditions. They’ll wheel vans outside and build rain or shine, sometimes in 30-degree Fahrenheit weather. Their shop isn’t insulated, so when temperatures drop they bundle up in layers. No big deal, according to Eric. “Before I started building vans, I worked in construction and home remodelling. I was always covered in sawdust. You just roll with it.”
Talk to anyone living in a van and it becomes abundantly clear that if you decide to live in your vehicle, you’d better be willing to get your hands dirty because mechanics aren’t always right around the corner. Have a problem? Do it yourself (DIY).
Many van lifers who build out their vans from scratch, or do renovations or repairs themselves, figure things out through trial and error. When they need to learn how to do something, many turn to YouTube videos or YouTube University.
Since Abigail and Natalie bought their van, they’ve learned the basics of carpentry, plumbing, and electricity all on their own, often by watching videos. They’re always engaged in a project, whether it’s finishing a door, doing creative woodburning into logs, or building the interior of their van with reclaimed wood to make it feel homey. Natalie had wanted to build a rooftop deck for years. “My cousin came into town and we just banged it out in about nine hours,” she says. “I was like, ‘we’re doing it.’”
In 2020, Natasha Van Horne, an EMT from California, hit the road in her Ford Econoline E-350 while attending school remotely. She created a schematic for her van’s electricity and asked a friend who knew electrical systems to check her work. Then, with no prior experience, Natasha installed a battery, lights, a fan, and solar panels.
After buying her van, Emily Blanchard thought there was too much piping for the water to move through— and it leaked. So, she went to The Home Depot, bought new piping, and built a new system. Solve one problem, and another emerges, Emily admits. “I was in the middle of nowhere in New Mexico when I turned on a light and everything short-circuited. I had no cell phone service, so I checked my fuse boxes and did some rewiring myself. I just had to figure it out on my own.”
Van life requires constant improvisation. Emily was in the Petrified Forest National Park when she heard a “terrible clanging sound.” She stopped and saw that her van’s solar panels were dangling from the van’s roof rack. She needed a certain type of screw but didn’t have them and the nearest Home Depot was two hours away. She used tape and zip ties to keep the panels in place, and they stayed put until she got back to civilization.
Dustin and Noami are always making upgrades. Their van was built in Germany in 1985. It had most of what they needed for life on the road—a bench seat that folds out into a bed, a tiny kitchen with a sink, a propane stove, and plenty of storage—but they’ve made a lot of additions, like adding solar panels and expanding storage space.
“Our van is 35-years-old, so things break a lot, especially if we take it down bumpy roads,” says Noami. “We’re always fixing things, and I’ve replaced or upgraded almost everything—the cooling system, transmission, suspension, even the engine.”
For folks who don’t have the time or interest to work on their vans, companies like Adventure Van Camp do custom builds. “We take what our clients are envisioning and make it into a reality,” says Beth. “It goes from an empty cargo van, and it rolls out as one of our little, tiny, homey, cozy, home-on-wheels.”
- BROOKE WEEBER @BROOKE_WEEBER
“IT’S BEEN REALLY COOL TO LEARN A WHOLE NEW SET OF SKILLS, LIKE WOODWORKING AND MAKING REPAIRS AND RENOVATIONS.”
“VAN LIFE ALLOWS US TO JUST BE FREE AND DO WHAT WE WANT WITHOUT TOO MUCH RESPONSIBILITY. WE LOVE WAKING UP TO DIFFERENT VIEWS ALL THE TIME.” - CHRIS & TAYLOR @ADVENTUREALLENS
For all the challenges that come with living in a van or RV, the alternative lifestyle remains a desirable lifestyle for many. Some folks think rent prices are too high or don’t have enough for a house. Others can’t stand to work in an office building. Some just want a steady stream of new experiences and to explore all the country has to offer.
Being mobile has allowed Chris and Taylor of Adventure Allens to go places they never thought they’d visit. One of the couple’s favourite places is Baja, Mexico, where they say the beaches are van life friendly.
Five years ago, the couple was living on a houseboat in San Diego when they moved into a Sprinter van because they felt it would give them more freedom. “Van life allows us to just be free and do what we want without too much responsibility,” says Taylor. “We love waking up to different views all the time.”
Living in a van turns everyone into problem solvers and that can be deeply empowering. When a problem arises, Google isn’t always available, so you have to use your brain and whatever you have on hand to solve the issue. Unexpected challenges have turned many regular folks into electricians, plumbers, and carpenters.
“We had zero building experience before we moved into our van,” says Abigail. “But it inspired us to learn new skills and trades and work with power tools and make new things and cool designs. This has been an awesome, empowering experience for us.”
Brooke Weeber was full of doubts when she bought her van, but she learned the skills she needed to live in her van little by little, making mistakes along the way.
“There were lots of tears, but I made it through,” she says. “It’s been really cool to learn a whole new set of skills, like woodworking and making repairs and renovations.”
“THERE’S NOTHING MORE PEACEFUL THAN BEING IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE IN YOUR VAN BY YOURSELF. IT’S ACTUALLY THE MOST AMAZING, BEAUTIFUL EXPERIENCE THERE IS.” - EMILY BLANCHARD @EMILYEVERYDAY
Emily lives in Colorado, but she grew up in Massachusetts, where winters are dark and cold. She’s driven her van all over the country, from Florida, where it’s humid and buggy, to the hot Texas desert, where temperatures can climb to 115 degrees Fahrenheit.
“You have to be a chameleon and figure things out wherever you are,” says Emily. Whether I’m using my moon shade to block out the sun when it gets hot in the desert or using zip ties to hold down gear when it’s windy, I just jerry-rig things.”
“When I was a kid, I was always in my dad’s shop, doing things with my hands and getting dirty,” says Eric. “Van life allows me to work with my hands every day and build things that are tangible, not digital.”
Brooke bought her van because it allows her to be closer to nature. She lived in New York City for years but came back to Portland, Oregon, where she grew up. “It's refreshing to be surrounded by trees, dirt, and moss, not buildings and concrete. I love waking up in Nature and breathing it all in. It calms me.”
For the Allens, being in nature can spark awe. They love listening to the sounds of wind blowing through leaves, waves crashing, birds chirping. “We were in the high deserts of Arizona, parked next to trees as tall as
towers,” says Chris. “Listening to the lightning strike at 7,000 feet, I realized how small human beings are.”
Van life is also about meeting new people and building community with folks who have similar worldviews and philosophies on life. Living in a van has allowed Eric and Beth to achieve a sense of belonging with clients and staff who are with their company. “My favourite part of the work has been building our own tiny community,” says Beth.
Van life has allowed Natasha to live out her vision of parenthood. She grew up travelling the country with her parents and wanted to do the same with her daughter, who she co-parents. Her daughter was three when she bought a van and started renovating it.
“I love living in a van with my daughter, travelling the world and giving her these amazing experiences,” says Natasha. “I was homeschooled by my parents. We spent so much time in nature, hiking and camping, and we travelled all over the country. I wanted to give my daughter similar experiences I had when I was a kid.”
Natasha also wants to be a role model for other single moms. Whatever the circumstances, you can achieve your dreams. She urges single parents to take their kids outdoors and go backpacking and camping. And don’t be afraid to live in a van.
"I LOVE LIVING IN A VAN WITH MY DAUGHTER, TRAVELLING THE WORLD AND GIVING HER THESE AMAZING EXPERIENCES."
- NATASHA VAN HORNE @TASHOFALLTRADES
The year 2020 was devastating for Emily. Her mom passed away unexpectedly, she was laid off because of the pandemic, and her long-term boyfriend broke up with her via text message. She felt lost. She sold her possessions, bought a van, rescued a dog, and hit the road on a “healing, finding-myself journey.”
“Everyone says they’ll travel in retirement, but I wanted to have adventures when I’m young,” says Emily. “I'm not always the healthiest person,” she jokes. “I eat a lot of fast food. I’m not promised tomorrow; I want to see the world before I get too old.”
Living in a van has given Emily many new life experiences. She loves hiking in beautiful places. The best thing about van life? How much she’s learned about herself. When she’s in nature, she feels more grounded with who she is.
Van life leads to self-discovery for many folks, but it also teaches most about other people and the world we all inhabit. Emily is often asked if she feels safe or if she’s ever scared when she’s out on the road.
“Living in a van has taught me that the world isn't as mean as everyone thinks it is,” she says. “There’s nothing more peaceful than being in the middle of nowhere in your van by yourself. It’s actually the most amazing, beautiful experience there is.”
Dustin Grinnell is an essayist and fiction writer based in Winthrop, Massachusetts. His creative nonfiction has appeared in many popular and literary publications, including The Boston Globe, New Scientist, VICE, Salon, and Writer's Digest. He has an MFA in creative writing from the Solstice MFA Program and an MS in physiology from Penn State. Learn more at dustingrinnell.com.
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Maddie Johnson is a freelance journalist, fulltime writer, and founder of the Fresh Coast. With an insatiable curiosity about the world and a keen eye for detail, she has covered topics ranging from sports and social issues to travel and lifestyle.
She also collaborates with travel brands and tourism boards, crafting content that highlights destinations responsibly, and runs a small social enterprise that works to cultivate a vibrant and sustainable future for the Great Lakes region through community-building initiatives and environmental stewardship.
When she is not travelling to distant locations, she is embracing depth at her home in Collingwood, Ontario, Canada. We connected with Maddie to learn more about her journey to work/life on the road.
WANDER: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A DIGITAL NOMAD? HOW DID YOU GET STARTED ON THIS JOURNEY?
MADDIE : I don’t think it was intentional, at least not at first. I’ve always had this innate sense of curiosity and a desire for freedom and flexibility, so needless to say following the rules wasn’t exactly my strong suit. The idea that there are things we’re ‘supposed’ to do never really resonated with me. Not even in a defiant way, it just went right over my head. So instead of heading straight for university, I packed a bag and headed straight to the airport—solo. I know it’s cliche, but holy shit did it ever change me. I became captivated by the world and everyone in it very quickly.
However, my career itself didn’t start until years later. I did eventually go to university, and in my final year we were required to complete an internship. The conditions were vague, so, cheeky as I am, I took it as an opportunity to connect with an English-speaking travel magazine based in San Jose, Costa Rica.
My only assignment for the six weeks I was there was to immerse myself into the country and culture and write about my experiences. Easy, right? I remember one morning clear as day. I had just come back from being absolutely humbled during a sunrise surf session. Still smiling like an idiot, I snagged a fresh mango from a fruit stand on the way. I was writing a feature about the boutique hostel I was staying at, so I ordered a cup of Costa Rican coffee and settled into a spot on the covered patio. I opened my laptop and got to work.
That was it. That was all I ever wanted.
I’m not going to say it's been easy, but every time I hit a roadblock after that day—and especially all throughout Covid—I remember that moment, and I know exactly what I am working for.
INSTEAD OF HEADING STRAIGHT FOR UNIVERSITY, I PACKED A BAG AND HEADED STRAIGHT TO THE AIRPORT—SOLO. I KNOW IT’S CLICHE, BUT HOLY SHIT, DID IT EVER CHANGE ME. I BECAME CAPTIVATED BY THE WORLD AND EVERYONE IN IT VERY QUICKLY.
HOW DO YOU BALANCE WORK AND TRAVEL? WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU'VE FACED?
I think the hardest thing for me to navigate is remembering that just because I can work from anywhere, doesn’t mean I should. I find it really challenging to turn off completely. With my office —aka my laptop—with me wherever I go, it's hard to separate work from life and vice versa. But that’s not always a bad thing. My work is part of my life, so I don’t always need to separate the two. Having a job you don’t feel the need to escape from is a great feeling.
That said, I still think it’s important to have a work-life balance just like anyone, and setting boundaries for yourself and actively choosing days off has helped me do so.
HOW DO YOU STAY PRODUCTIVE AND MOTIVATED WHILE WORKING REMOTELY?
Honestly, once you establish a routine—whatever that routine is to you—it’s not actually that difficult. It’s funny because I never wanted to work a nine-to-five, and I’m not going to pretend that I do now either, but I find if I set working hours and stick to them, it’s easy to stay productive no matter where in the world I happen to be. Now, there will always be times that I break that —especially if the sun is shining and almost always when the swell is good—but setting those standards and expectations for myself off the hop helps me determine when it’s OK to let them go.
HAS YOUR TRAVEL STYLE OR APPROACH CHANGED OVER TIME?
I like to travel slow, I think that’s what really drove me to become location-independent in the first place. I never understood how someone could experience a place or connect with its culture in only a few short days. I understand that not everyone has the luxury of staying longer, so I know I am fortunate in that way.
But to me, travel and vacation are two very different things, and when I travel, I do so in a way that allows me to soak up every ounce of a situation or destination. I don’t think that has necessarily changed over the years, if anything it’s just become more prominent. There is so much to see and experience in the world that it’s hard to not keep going, to not keep chasing that distance, but the depth you get from staying put somewhere isn’t to be scoffed at either.
I think there’s this misconception about ‘digital nomads’ that they have to live this eternally nomadic lifestyle. But what I like most about being able to work from anywhere is just that, I can do it from anywhere. It’s the choice behind it that sets us apart. Whether it’s two days, two months or two years, where my office is, is up to me. And I just incorporate that into the way I travel.
Or maybe I’m just a terrible nomad, who knows.
The one thing that never ceases to amaze me is how quickly I can feel so connected to somewhere new.
When you open yourself up to the world, you allow truly incredible connections to unfold. It's remarkable how the human spirit can adapt and find a sense of belonging in unfamiliar surroundings. I mean it, when you embrace the unknown and step outside of your comfort zone, you create opportunities for personal growth and memorable interactions that stick with you for life.
Outside of that, you kind of learn to expect and even embrace the unexpected, and things stop surprising you as much. That said, I am also very fortunate that I haven’t had too many experiences where my safety has been questioned, either.
This is a great question, and a few things come to mind.
First and foremost, it’s this idea people have that digital nomads are always on vacation or that our lives are super exciting all of the time. That’s far from true, and unfortunately, I think social media is a big contributor. I still face the same challenges and stressors that other workers do. I still need to meet deadlines and attend
meetings and grow my clientele, but nobody wants to see me sitting on a crowded bus desperately trying to get some work done, or waking up at the wee hours of the morning to get on a client call in a completely different time zone.
That said, the lifestyle for sure has its perks, and I will choose the struggles of wifi connectivity over conformity any day. Which leads me to another big misconception and that’s the belief people have that this lifestyle is unattainable for them. Every time I hear someone say, ‘You’re so lucky’ or ‘I wish I could do that,’ makes me frustrated because they can, and it breaks my heart that they have been taught otherwise. Sure, I worked hard to establish a career that is independent of a location, but I’m not special. And thanks to technological advances (and Covid), there are more and more jobs available that can be done from anywhere. Ultimately, it comes back to that freedom of choice and choosing something that fulfills you.
Lastly, the misconception that digital nomads exclusively live in beautiful, tropical destinations, far from home and all their loved ones.
Although technically, I think the term digital nomad does literally mean someone who travels far from home and works remotely. So in that way, I am a bit of a phoney. Because I love home. But what I love most about the digital nomad lifestyle, at least the way I live it, is that it allows me to soak up my culture and community wholeheartedly when I am home. Building a lifestyle that prioritizes LIFE has allowed
me to connect more deeply with myself and my surroundings, no matter where in the world I am. So some of my favourite trips and experiences haven’t actually been all that far from home, after all.
I am a sucker for anywhere that instills creativity, and I've had that happen in just about every corner of the world. My inspiration stems from my surroundings, so while yes, working remotely does require a certain level of discipline no matter where you are, I will actively choose places that foster this sense of expressiveness. And nine times out of 10 that is a result of the community more than the destination. Whether it be a bungalow overlooking the beach, an A-frame in the woods or a bright and eclectic craft brewery in the middle of a city, my surroundings don't matter as much as who I surround myself with.
That said, destination-wise, more often than not, you’ll find me somewhere where at the end of the day I can shut my laptop, suck back an ice-cold cerveza and surf until the sun has long since set. The more off the beaten path, the better, because you know the people you are going to meet on the other side are worth the encounter. As a mentor once told me: the extra mile is never crowded.
Connect with Maddie maddiejohnson.com @misssmaddie @the.freshcoast
BY KRISTINA SMITH
Soaking in the warmth of the steamy outdoor whirlpool, I gazed at the picturesque mountain view and pondered my next move. Should I linger in the thermotherapy circuit or make my way to the restaurant for what promised to be another delectable meal? The choice was a tough one, and I relished having such a luxurious dilemma.
JUMP RIGHT IN (THE WATER)
Tucked away in the heart of Quebec, Canada's Eastern Townships, Spa Eastman is a hidden gem that combines the healing power of nature with delicious, nourishing cuisine for a true immersion into the joy of simply living.
As you ascend the elevation on the drive in, the secluded nature of this stunning retreat becomes apparent, a peaceful 330-acre escape from the hustle of daily life. Entering the main pavilion, I actually felt my shoulders drop and was more than ready to dive in.
I started my journey with an introduction to the hydrotherapy circuit with a small group (Thermotherapy 101), which included a tour and explanation of the various hot and cold pools and saunas as well as the beautiful, serene relaxation rooms.
Not yet feeling brave, I finished up with the polar plunge in the outdoor lake anyway, which surprised me by feeling fantastic. Definitely a great way to kick off a stay here in the colder seasons.
We were each provided with one robe and towel kit per day, which can be kept in your locker and swapped daily as needed. Vous ne parlez pas français? Not to worry – like my introduction to the circuit, many of the activities are offered in both French and English, and the staff is bilingual as well.
I would come to repeat this healing circuit several times during my stay; there was never any rushed feeling, and lots of space to spread out, never crowded or loud.
A TRUE PIONEER OF DESTINATION SPAS AND HEALTH TOURISM, JOCELYNA DUBEC HAS ALWAYS BELIEVED IN THE HEALING POWER OF NATURE
I WOULD COME TO REPEAT THIS HEALING CIRCUIT SEVERAL TIMES DURING MY STAY; THERE WAS NEVER ANY RUSHED FEELING, AND LOTS OF SPACE TO SPREAD OUT, NEVER CROWDED OR LOUD.
After my introduction to the circuit, I headed to my oasis in the forest. The eco-pavilion housing my room is actually called Oasis, and the name could not be more apt.
The first of more to come, this newly completed, carbon-neutral “inn in the forest” is based on the best principles of sustainable development, and it is one more concept from visionary co-founder Jocelyna Dubuc come to life.
Dubuc opened Spa Eastman in 1977, the year I was born – a true pioneer of destination spas and health tourism in the 70s – and has always believed in the healing power of nature.
She had a vision for these restorative sanctuaries decades ago, but the technology and materials for building in a healthy, sustainable way were simply not available. Luckily, a few years ago, she serendipitously
connected with experts in the field, and her vision of creating a healthy village began to come to life.
The interior has a decidedly Scandinavian/minimalist vibe with a gorgeous communal space to relax complete with green plants climbing the walls. In addition to this beautiful glass room, the entirely non-toxic pavilion houses a kitchen, infrared sauna, 4-season solarium, and a roof terrace.
Oasis was so quiet, so soundproof, I actually had no idea any other guests were staying there until I ran into them in the entrance foyer! The pavilion is entirely surrounded by trees; I drove there initially with my bags but afterwards was able to tromp ten minutes or so through the woods to return to the main pavilion.
Dubuc feels strongly that sharing these learnings is key, and Oasis is being used as a teaching school for other sustainable building projects. What a legacy.
On my first evening at dinner in the restaurant, I spotted Dubuc chatting and laughing with guests. Her passion is infectious.
It was her vision that Spa Eastman offer not just a healthy menu, but a restorative one as well. In her early 20s, Dubuc discovered the healing properties of food for her own health, and over the years, surrounded herself with experts and enthusiasts to achieve another of her goals: creating a cuisine that’s just as tasty as it is nutritious.
Spa Eastman’s Tonique Cuisine® has earned global acclaim, securing the coveted top spot in the 2022 Global Culinary Travel Awards by the World Food Travel Association for its exceptional emphasis on wellness and health in culinary travel.
Being closed during the height of the pandemic gave Spa Eastman pause to even further define its food offerings and direction, exploring low-temperature cooking and incorporating more good fats.
For me, the experience was about committing more deeply to healthy eating and fresh ingredients. Every breakfast starts with berries, fermented yogurt, and a
muffin to enjoy alongside your tea or coffee. I highly recommend the vegetable-based “hollandaise” sauce with poached eggs on Celestial bread.
Lunch brings hearty soups and fermented salads topped with microgreens (grown on-site) and main options like noodles, while dinner is a four-course affair with fish, meat, and vegetarian entrees that are packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavour. All gluten and dairy free, and very filling, the menu changes seasonally with special Chef’s recommendations daily.
I loved this approach to dining without a side of dogma: enjoy the food, and perhaps bring home aspects that appeal to you. All dishes are beautifully presented, which naturally leads to slower, more mindful eating. The servers were friendly and knowledgeable, and if they didn’t know an answer to one of my questions, they asked for me.
Spa Eastman’s commitment to healthy living extends to its wine selection, predominantly organic and made from grapes grown without chemicals or pesticides. I enjoyed them and committed to choosing responsibly produced wines at home.
I watched the sunrise from my room each morning and happened to catch one from the upper relaxation room in the circuit area as well. Breathtaking. Seeking an even deeper connection, I joined a forest therapy/meditative walk with knowledgeable guide Anne-Marie.
As Dubuc recognized decades ago, we cannot have true health of body without the health of our natural surroundings. While some have recently made this connection, Spa Eastman was ahead of the curve, offering guests an opportunity for quiet reflection, connection, and appreciation of nature and the trees themselves.
We wandered slowly through the forest, taking in the sights, smells, and sounds around us. As the walk ended, we each took some time to embrace a tree. A few people seemed a bit shy at first, but after a couple of minutes had smiles on their faces, even some tears.
I don’t normally nap in the afternoons but certainly did here, most likely due to the detoxing of the thermotherapy circuit. To wake up, a walk in the woods was called for – the 15 kilometres of trails are wellmarked – and in snow and heavy boots, this certainly fired up an appetite for dinner!
I also enjoyed spending time around in the lounge in the main pavilion, with its comfy seating, peaceful music, and fireplace. A wonderful place to read and relax.
While some guests opt for day visits, many choose to stay and make the most of this tranquil paradise. I would highly recommend a minimum 3-night stay so you have time to decompress from travel time, unpack, and take things slowly.
What sets Spa Eastman apart from other spa destinations is the commitment I felt to offering a unique experience to each and every guest. They offer a full menu of spa treatments and therapies, as well as a modern gym, yoga classes, and so much more.
Spa Eastman is a destination of tranquillity and relaxation that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to take on the world. Pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and book a stay at this one-of-a-kind wellness getaway.
Candice McCoy is the founder and editor of The Great Wanderlust, a place to find camaraderie with other women who thrive in adventure and choose the off-the-beaten path in travel and in life.
She and her partner Jon, along with their four children—two sets of twins now 8 and 10—embarked on their first transformative journey in 2020 to explore slow travel and embrace a more nomadic lifestyle.
Fueled by a desire to break free from conventional routines, they began to embark on remarkable adventures, showcased through their blog series, Wander Here. Candice, an avid photographer, skillfully captures the essence of their destinations, using her lens to convey the unique experiences they encounter.
The Great Wanderlust also showcases insightful narratives through in-depth interviews with inspiring women—blog-style, and (hot-off-the-press!) in podcast form—titled She, Who Wanders
We connected with Candice while she was “off” the road for just a minute at her home base in Oklahoma City. Her story is a testament to the power of wanderlust and the pursuit of meaningful experiences.
CANDICE: It is so important for us to maintain a sense of stability and routine when we’re travelling, especially when we’re gone for longer periods. It’s essential for my husband and me, and probably even more so for the kids! When everything around them is continually changing, it’s beneficial to have things they can depend on to stay grounded.
One thing we do right away at any new place is unpack our things. Pulling everything out of the duffels and organizing it into drawers makes it feel more homey and less like we’re just visiting someone else’s house (even if that’s exactly what we’re doing).
We also love to hang onto some of our normal routines. We often use mornings to do chores like laundry and cleaning up and then have our book learning time, just like at home. After lunch is when we get out and explore, often staying out until sunset. Weekly rituals like family movie night and Sunday morning pancakes go a long way too!
While keeping normal routines going helps our kids a lot, creating new rituals and routines specific to the places we visit is also really special. During our month in Portugal last year, our kids found an electric tea kettle, something that they had never used before. They loved making iced mint tea every morning, and we all feel a special nostalgia anytime we make tea at home now. So many memories are tied to that kettle’s whistle.
To us, slow travel looks like visiting a particular place for a sustained period of time so that we can really dig in and feel connected to the people and culture. But it’s not just about the length of the stay. It also means slowing down, engaging in conversations, and opening up time just to wander and discover things you might not catch when rushing from place to place.
There are so many benefits we’ve found with travelling slow. It allows us to keep our routines but still be able to explore everything we want to see. It also allows for plenty of rest, which is so important, especially for the kids. We’ve found that when we travel fast and are constantly moving from place to place, we wear down quickly, which is less fun and just not sustainable.
Join fellow wanderers over at thegreatwanderlust.com and connect on Instagram at @the_great_wanderlust.
She, Who Wanders is a podcast about pushing boundaries, embracing risks, and creating a vibrant existence that's true to our deepest values. Each week, you’ll hear the stories of women like Sarah, who sold everything to travel the world, Tiffany, who is bravely navigating the tension between grief and joy, and Christina, who turned her passion for travel into an impactful business that has enabled her family to experience living in dozens of countries together.
Listen on Apple or Spotify
We also love how slow travel gives us plenty of time to really experience and learn as much as we can about a culture. Settling in and trying to live like the locals gives a more profound understanding of the intricacies of life there. We don’t want the touristy, surface version of these villages and cities; we want the raw and authentic version that you can only find by having time to wander and do real life there. We believe this fosters empathy and awareness in our kids and gives them a broad worldview.
We wandered around Porto, Portugal, for an afternoon last summer, looking for a broom shop we’d heard about. We’d heard it inspired JK Rowling in her writing of the Harry Potter series, but when we found it on a tiny road off the beaten path, I knew it would be about so much more to us. We spent an hour chatting with the owner, whose great-great-grandfather started the handmade broom and brush shop 50 years before. It was still run as a family business, and the owner happily shared all about the art of brush-making (escovaria) and how his shop has continued to thrive over the generations.
CAN YOU SHARE AN EXAMPLE OF A CULTURAL EXCHANGE OR INTERACTION THAT SIGNIFICANTLY IMPACTED YOUR CHILD(REN)’S UNDERSTANDING OF A PARTICULAR COMMUNITY OR PLACE?
Oh, there are so many! From a chat on the street in Paris with a local man who offered to take our picture to the ladies at a community library in Puerto Rico who shared all they’re doing to help local children fall in love with reading. Everywhere we go, we look for opportunities to have conversations. Hearing personal stories is the best way to learn more about a culture and way of life and let it seep into your senses.
In Nazare, Portugal, we were able to stumble through a conversation (hand motions and the tiny smidge of Portuguese we knew) with a local elderly woman who was selling dried fish on the beach. For decades her husband has been going out to fish in the mornings, bringing home buckets of fish and octopus for her to skin, salt, and lay out on racks to dry in the sun. It’s an age-old practice that used to be a huge part of the economy of this little seaside village. Seeing my kids' eyes light up at hearing her story and actually getting to see, feel and taste the fish was eye-opening for all of us and a memory I won’t forget.
THE GREAT WANDERLUST VIBE SEEMS TO EMPHASIZE SUSTAINABLE AND RESPONSIBLE SLOW TRAVEL. ARE THERE ANY INITIATIVES OR PRACTICES YOU ACTIVELY INCORPORATE TO HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT AND LOCAL COMMUNITIES?
During our travels, we are passionate about seeking out opportunities to learn more about conservation and how to take better care of our planet. Spending time in nature and getting up close and personal with different ecosystems – from the ocean to the desert to the mountains – helps us understand more tangibly how much our planet needs us to make changes and what we can do to help.
We love to visit places like the Rainmaker Conservation Park in Costa Rica, where 80% of the property is untouched rainforest, hosting one of the most biologically diverse properties in Central America. Visiting places like this fosters curiosity and passion for taking care of our planet. We are not experts on this topic, but we believe asking better questions together with our kids and listening to the voices of the people who intimately know these local environments is a great place to start.
IS THERE A PLACE YOU'VE VISITED THAT HAS BECOME A PERSONAL FAVOURITE OR HOLDS A SPECIAL PLACE IN YOUR HEART(S)?
It’s tough because every place we’ve spent significant time in has touched us and holds a place in our hearts. That’s the only downside to slow travel, you feel
like there are little pieces of your heart left at places thousands of miles away, which is beautiful but also can feel heartbreaking at the same time.
If I had to choose one place though, it would be Costa Rica. It was the first place we experienced slow travel, and we fell hard for its beautiful culture and way of life. The Costa Rican motto is “pura vida,” which means “pure life.” You can’t spend time there without the pura vida way of life stealing your heart and making you never want to leave. It’s a slower pace of life, emphasizing nature and not worrying about the little things that don’t matter. And, of course, the landscapes and wildlife are breathtaking.
You’ll never regret travelling and exploring more with your family. I think the biggest thing that can hold people back from hitting the road is the unknown nature of travelling, especially with kids. It can be intimidating to take the risk, not knowing how it will
go. But the thing is, life can be chaotic with kids, even when we’re at home. So you might as well be exploring and experiencing a new place while managing it all.
We’ve had cancelled flights, rental car breakdowns, Airbnbs that didn’t quite match the description, and a crazy diaper blowout in the middle of the Chinese subway. And even though there were uncomfortable moments, it all worked out fine and ended up being some of our favourite memories. Travelling and going on adventures bond you together in a unique and special way. Just don’t let the what-ifs stop you from taking the leap.
We have built our businesses where we can work while on the road, but we still understand it’s a privilege to be able to take longer trips to faraway places. I want to spread the message that you don’t have to go far to experience these adventures. We have also had incredible experiences and made the best memories taking little day trips around our home state. Just setting out on the road with the whole day open for whatever adventures present themselves is magic, no matter how far away you are.
THESE MODERN DESIGN HOTELS UPEND NOTIONS OF THE TRADITIONALLY QUAINT COUNTRY STAY IN ITALY
BY ELIZABETH HEATHOn seemingly every hill and dale in Italy, there’s a rural accommodation. These range from cozy, if spartan, farmhouses to more elegant villas and even entire medieval hamlets converted to luxury hotels. What most of them have in common is decor that celebrates Italy’s agrarian past, usually characterized by 19th-century antiques, gildedframed artworks of pastoral scenes, and an overall ambiance that’s intended to transport guests to the rustic Italy of another era.
It works, but it can get a little…homogeneous. That’s why it’s such a pleasant jolt to the senses to stay in one of Italy’s rural design hotels, whose proprietors have respected the “bones” of their ancient structures but re-envisioned them with modern aesthetics or have created new, contemporary complexes that are entirely of their place. But these rural bastions of chicness still serve up the Italian countryside in all its splendid glory, albeit without a checkered tablecloth, grandmotherly nightstand, or piece of rusting farm equipment in sight.
The exposed stone walls and weathered wood beams may say 12th-century monastery, but the interiors of this boutique hotel in rural Umbria offer a sexy contrast to the property’s pious past. Think oversized bathtubs built for two, walk-in showers with jeweltone tiles, four-poster beds of contemporary forged iron, and bespoke furnishings that evoke mid-century modern style.
An on-site restaurant offers sophisticated versions of Umbrian classics, with many ingredients coming from the kitchen garden and heritage fruit trees out back. Guests gather around the bar to challenge the mixologist to shake up something new, and when the weather is pleasant, the outdoor firepit and oversized pool loungers are favourite gathering places. Frederik and Catharina, the visionary couple behind the Vocabolo, welcome guests like old friends. The result is restful, playful and contemporary, while still paying homage to the heritage of the monastic hamlet. While this is a supremely chilled-out place to while away a few days, a host of Umbrian and Tuscan hill towns are just a short drive away.
THESE RURAL BASTIONS OF CHICNESS STILL SERVE UP THE ITALIAN COUNTRYSIDE IN ALL ITS SPLENDID GLORY, ALBEIT WITHOUT A CHECKERED TABLECLOTH, GRANDMOTHERLY NIGHTSTAND, OR PIECE OF RUSTING FARM EQUIPMENT IN SIGHT.
Purpose-built, and built with a purpose in mind, Casa di Langa made a splash when it opened a few years ago as a sustainable design hotel in the northern Piedmont region, and its eco-minded mission remains central. The stepped and terraced structure overlooks acres and acres of undulating vineyards, which yield the region’s famous Barolo and Barbaresco wines.
Rooms and suites at Casa di Langa—be sure to request one with a countryside view—are sleek studies in texture and neutral colours, with custom-made wood furnishings and fixtures, wood or terracotta floors, and marble or granite bathrooms with walk-in showers. The result is a happy medium between creature comforts and starker minimalism, with an overall ambiance that feels cool, but never cold. The on-site restaurant is dedicated to sustainably sourced ingredients and features a vegetarian-tasting menu with products from the hotel’s garden. There’s also a spa, a cocktail bar and ample opportunities for outdoor pursuits.
They may have been built in the 16th and 17th centuries, but the masserie (farm estates) of Italy’s southern Puglia region have a modern edge to them—maybe it’s the blocky architecture, sunbleached stone and whitewashed walls. At Masseria Bagnara, the rustic modernity extends to the interiors, which are studies in white, gray and plum, accented with honey-colored stone.
Several rooms and suites incorporate the ancient vaulted ceilings of the original farmhouse, and may feature exposed rock walls, sheltered patios and private hot tubs. The restaurant offers elegantly plated farm-to-table cuisine with roots in Puglia’s rich gastronomic traditions, and the cocktail bar serves a dizzying variety of spirits in addition to the more than 1200 bottles of wine kept in a stone cellar. An infinity edge pool invites guests to linger at this rural retreat and toast a glorious sunset. But if you need to get off-property, the sandy beaches and clear blue waters of the Ionian Sea are less than a kilometre away.
NEW SERVICE EMPOWERS FITNESS & OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS TO FIND WELLNESS TRAVEL ON THEIR TERMS
Coming out of COVID, there has been a surge in wellness travel. And with good reason. People across the globe have a heightened awareness of the importance of wellness and a desire to break free from the confines of being cooped up.
Today, retreats have become popular but they have traditionally focused heavily on relaxation and meditation. What has been missing is a way to marry people’s desire to travel with wellness and sport.
Addressing this gap, Activ Retreats emerges as the desired platform, offering a central location for active travellers to discover and book hand-picked retreats that combine their passion for adventure, fitness, and wellness.
Join us as we delve into the insights of Sarah Burry, co-founder of Activ Retreats.
SARAH: I travelled the world in my 20s and 30s and have always sought adventure. I love to hike, ski, and run and have even been skydiving. But my love affair with health and wellness didn’t start until my late 40s when a running accident led to Fibromyalgia. This low point prompted me to reevaluate my lifestyle and develop a new appreciation for the mind-body connection. I started thinking differently about my diet, lifestyle, and even travel.
This experience became the catalyst for Activ Retreats. I wanted to be able to marry my love of adventure, travel, and wellness. I started looking and found incredible communities offering running retreats, hiking retreats, and even rock-climbing retreats, but they were distributed across the web. Finding these communities took hours. So, I started bringing them all together. It has been my labour of love.
Many popular wellness travel platforms are designed with yoga and meditation in mind. Activ Retreats also offers yoga retreats, but we wanted to create a platform that uniquely married other adventures and outdoor pursuits with yoga because they also represent wellness.
I love a quote from John Muir that says, “Into the mountains I go to lose my mind and find my soul.” I think that is true for a lot of sports. They help rejuvenate the mind, body and soul and are perfect candidates for retreats. So, our retreats blend sports like running, cycling, surfing, and rafting with yoga, wellness, and travel. And in doing so, we hope to bring wellness travel to even more people.
I STARTED LOOKING AND FOUND INCREDIBLE COMMUNITIES OFFERING RUNNING RETREATS, HIKING RETREATS, AND EVEN ROCKCLIMBING RETREATS, BUT THEY WERE DISTRIBUTED ACROSS THE WEB. FINDING THESE COMMUNITIES TOOK HOURS. SO, I STARTED BRINGING THEM ALL TOGETHER. IT HAS BEEN MY LABOUR OF LOVE.
WE LOVE THAT YOU HAVE RETREAT OFFERINGS LIKE ROCK CLIMBING, GOLF, AND SWIMMING; WE DON’T TEND TO SEE THOSE VERY OFTEN! HOW DID YOU CHOOSE THE CATEGORIES INITIALLY?
Thank you! We offer retreats across 18 different categories of sports and outdoor pursuits. I was a swimmer as a child. My dad played golf. My husband rock climbs. My friends all ski and hike. I wanted to create a platform that everyone around me would find attractive. And as I dug into my research on one sport or adventure, I would stumble upon another, like dog sledding, which also made it onto our platform.
WITH THE LAUNCH OF THE MARKETPLACE, HOW DO YOU ENVISION ENHANCING THE OVERALL EXPERIENCE FOR BOTH RETREAT ORGANIZERS AND PARTICIPANTS?
Finding and planning your next vacation shouldn’t be hard. But it often is. Some of the larger platforms offer thousands of trips. It's like encountering 100 types of butter at a supermarket—you want variety, but not at the cost of hours spent searching.
Activ Retreats wants to make it easy for retreat hosts and travellers to work with us. We want to make finding the perfect getaway quick and simple. We have close to 500 hand-picked and curated retreats—but we will never have 10,000. We want to provide great choices but we also ensure we never lose sight of the importance of making it easy.
SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL IS BECOMING INCREASINGLY IMPORTANT IN THE INDUSTRY. DOES ACTIV RETREATS INTEGRATE SUSTAINABILITY INTO CHOOSING ITS RETREAT OFFERINGS AND PARTNERS?
We are big believers in sustainable travel. We hand-pick our retreats and work with partners who also share our beliefs. We have also partnered with Stripe to donate 1% of our revenue to protect the environment. As we scale, we can continue to grow our contribution. It is heartening to see so many organizations in the travel industry paving the way for sustainability and ecofriendly travel. There is a lot more work to be done, and we want to make sure Activ Retreats is doing its part.
HOW DO YOU SEE WELLNESS RETREATS EVOLVING OVER THE NEXT FEW YEARS?
That is a great question. I see several trends that are set to transform and customize retreat experiences, leading to the emergence of new and diverse offerings.
1. THE NEED FOR DIGITAL DETOX
In our tech-dominated world, sensory overload is prevalent. As someone who has experienced multiple concussions, I may feel this more intensely, but its impact is universal. We find ourselves constantly working, playing, and connecting online, and this virtual realm is rapidly consuming our lives. So, I believe there will be a shift to leverage retreats to do a digital detox, to get back to nature, to truly get away from this virtual cocoon we have created for ourselves.
We are aware that our world is changing around us –just one look at our reefs tells us as much. So I think there will be a push towards more sustainable holidays that allow travellers to give back. There will also be more hosts that put sustainability front and centre of what they do. For example, I would expect to see retreats that offer an opportunity to hike and do trail upkeep with a little yoga thrown in.
Activ Retreats is headquartered in the Bay Area, California, and provides a simple and convenient way for people worldwide to discover and book active getaways. Their retreats, camps and holidays marry sports, travel, and wellness and help people see the world in a whole new way.
Visit activretreats.com to book your next adventure.
Wellness is here to stay. Yoga led the charge and is synonymous with how people think about retreats. But wellness is about working on your mental and physical state, and there are lots of active pursuits that help you get there. I see diving and rafting and even fishing and golfing retreats. Really it is about getting out, moving, and relaxing the mind, body, and soul. Who knows, we may even see curling and hockey retreats in the nottoo-distant future.
COZY COMFORT FOR YOUR SUMMER ADVENTURE
Ah, the sweet scent of summer is in the air, and that can only mean one thing—it's road trip season! As the days grow longer and the wanderlust sets in, there's no better way to make unforgettable memories than embarking on a summer road trip with your loved ones. This year, take it up a notch and infuse your journey with the delightful Danish concept of Hygge (pronounced hue-gah) by creating a cozy and joyful atmosphere as you explore the great outdoors, visit charming towns, revel in bonfires, and indulge in stargazing.
Buckle up and let the cozy adventure begin!
BEFORE YOU ZOOM OFF INTO THE SUNSET, MAKE SURE YOU'RE FULLY PREPARED FOR MAXIMUM COZINESS: Pack those soft blankets, fluffy pillows, lanterns, and twinkle-twinkle fairy lights. And what's a road trip without your favourite books, magazines, or crafts? Tie-dyeing anyone? Plus, you absolutely can't leave behind the fantastic games from the Hygge Games company. Add some camping-themed games to the mix to spice things up! Charades, karaoke, or even a good old scavenger hunt will make this trip the stuff of legends.
NOW, LET'S TALK ABOUT ACCOMMODATIONS: Traditional camping or glamping is the way to go if you want to get up close and personal with nature without sacrificing comfort. Imagine setting up your cozy nest in a tent, complete with a hammock between two trees, fairy lights casting a magical glow, and enough blankets and pillows to rival a marshmallow kingdom! But hey, if roughing it out in a tent isn't your thing, fear not! You can always opt for an RV, Airstream, or even a Boler, fancier accommodations that bring the luxuries of home to the great outdoors. And let's not forget the charm of quaint Bed & Breakfasts, where cozy vibes and warm hospitality await.
AH, COOKING AROUND THE CAMPFIRE —THE HEART AND SOUL OF ANY ROAD TRIP: Let the warmth of the crackling fire embrace you. It's time for good old-fashioned storytelling, culinary adventures, and pure hygge bliss. But remember, let's keep things simple when it comes to cooking. No need to stress over complicated recipes! Pack some charcuterie-style snacks, fresh fruits, veggies, and trail mix in a cooler, and you're good to go. And don't forget the essentials for the ultimate campfire treat—grilled kabobs and gooey, melt-in-your-mouth s'mores! Toast those marshmallows to perfection, sandwich them between graham crackers and chocolate, and take a bite of pure gooey bliss. Oh, and be sure to bring the ingredients for Snobrød (traditional Danish Bonfire Bread) because nothing says hygge like baking bread over an open flame. And, of course, don't forget your trusty French press and your favourite mug for that heavenly cup of coffee or tea. Picture yourself sipping your favourite brew while the sun rises, casting a golden glow over the beautiful outdoors.
LET’S TURN OUR EYES TO THE SKY:
It's time for a celestial symphony of stargazing. Far away from the city lights, the summer nights become a mesmerizing canvas of twinkling stars. Spread out a cozy blanket, lie back, and let your imagination run wild as you spot constellations and make wishes upon shooting stars. And for the lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis!
WE CAN'T FORGET ABOUT EXPLORING CHARMING LITTLE TOWNS ALONG THE WAY: These hidden gems are full of delightful surprises, mouthwatering food, and local crafts that will make your heart skip a beat. Roll down those windows, play your favourite tunes, and cruise through cobbled streets lined with quirky boutiques. Indulge in homemade ice cream at the local parlour or simply sit on a park bench and soak in the delightful ambiance.
AS YOU JOURNEY, EMBRACE THE TRUE ESSENCE OF A ROAD TRIP—UNPLUGGED QUALITY TIME: Put away those smartphones and immerse yourself in old-fashioned fun. Sing along to catchy tunes, play car games that have you laughing uncontrollably, or engage in storytelling sessions that transport you to faraway lands. Discover scenic spots along your journey— riversides, meadows, or lakeshores, where you can lay out a cozy blanket and enjoy a leisurely picnic. As you savour delicious bites, surrounded by nature's beauty, let laughter and unhurried conversations fill the air.
DISCOVER SCENIC SPOTS ALONG YOUR JOURNEY –RIVERSIDES, MEADOWS, OR LAKESHORES, WHERE YOU CAN LAY OUT A COZY BLANKET AND ENJOY A LEISURELY PICNIC.
NOW, HERE'S A SECRET INGREDIENT FOR YOUR ROAD TRIP: SERENDIPITY! While having a plan is great, don't be afraid to embrace the unexpected. Take detours to explore intriguing landmarks, follow road signs to quirky roadside attractions, or simply go wherever your curiosity leads you. Some of the most unforgettable and lighthearted moments happen when we let go of strict itineraries and allow serendipity to guide us. So, go ahead, take that spontaneous turn, and let the road surprise you with its delightful wonders.
AND WHEN WANDERLUST CALLS AGAIN, DON'T HESITATE TO PLAN YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE: The world is filled with endless possibilities, waiting to be explored and experienced with a lighthearted and playful spirit. Whether it's another road trip or a different form of travel, let your curiosity guide you and create more joyful memories along the way.
So, fellow hygge road trippers, let's celebrate the joy of the open road, the thrill of new discoveries, and the cozy moments that bring us closer together. It's time to hit the road and create a symphony of laughter, coziness, and unforgettable moments. Let the hygge begin!
YOUR HYGGE ROAD TRIP CHECKLIST
1. SNAP THE SURPRISE
Embrace the nostalgia and grab a quirky disposable camera to capture your road trip moments. Challenge yourself to resist using your phone and eagerly await the developed photos for a delightful surprise reveal.
2. HYGGE-INSPIRED ADVENTURE KIT
Curate a whimsical summer fun kit filled with surprises. Include a special herbal tea blend, a nature journal for sketching or jotting down memories, an audiobook or podcast to spark your imagination, a snuggly blanket, and a few candles (just don't light them in the tent!).
3. COZY WONDER PICNIC
Pack a basket brimming with plush blankets, fluffy pillows, and an assortment of your favourite snacks. Seek out idyllic spots by the roadside, near babbling streams, or amidst picturesque flower fields for a relaxing and hyggelig picnic experience.
4. ROAD TRIP TALES
Dive into captivating audiobooks or podcasts that delight all travel companions. Choose thrilling stories, comedy shows, or engaging interviews that keep everyone entertained and eagerly listening.
5. PLAYFUL ROADSIDE FUN
Unleash the joy with a deck of quirky cards or an offbeat road trip game. Take a break from driving and let the laughter and friendly competition bind your travel companions even closer.
6. THE SERENDIPITY DETOUR
Keep an eye out for intriguing signs beckoning from the roadside and embark on spontaneous detours. Uncover hidden gems and unexpected wonders that add a touch of magic and unforgettable moments to your adventure.
7. ZENFUL ESCAPES
Begin each day by embracing mindfulness. Find tranquillity with morning meditation or gentle yoga amidst nature's embrace. Let the rustle of leaves and birdsong become your enchanting soundtrack.
8. NATURE'S SYMPHONY
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings. Whether it's the rhythmic crash of ocean waves or the majestic views of mountain peaks, allow nature's symphony to rejuvenate your senses and evoke awe-inspiring moments.
9. TASTE THE LOCALE
Embark on a culinary exploration by visiting local farmer's markets or roadside stands. Embrace the freshest produce and craft a scrumptious meal. Additionally, seek out local eateries to savour new flavours, a gateway to experiencing diverse cultures.
10. LITERARY ADVENTURES
Make a detour to a charming local bookstore and handpick a captivating book to accompany your journey. Indulge in the pleasure of reading before bedtime, unravelling fascinating stories, and uncovering hidden tales that weave with the places you visit.
Ah, linen, how do we love thee? You get softer with age, and we never have to pull out an iron since your natural creases give our clothing its relaxed charm.
Cedar & Vine is a brand that knows linen, with a collection of stylish pieces, including dresses, tops, pants, and jumpsuits. Their designs have a minimalist aesthetic, with clean lines and a relaxed fit, making them suitable for both casual and more formal occasions. We love their Linen Shirt and Tapered Trousers, available in a range of cozy hues from oatmeal to terracotta to slate.
As a women-led team of makers, they know that finding clothing that fits isn’t as simple as picking a number on a size chart, so they offer customization at no extra cost. This made-for-you approach gives you the freedom to alter pieces, whether you want a little more room in the hips or a higher rise.
Cedar & Vine prioritizes sustainability and ethical production practices, ensuring their clothing is made with high-quality materials and produced under fair working conditions. Their goal? Hearing you say, “I live in this.”
Shop cedarandvine.net USE
This lightweight and compact camping chair is designed for outdoor enthusiasts who value comfort and convenience. Weighing in at only 1.1 pounds, it is one of the lightest portable chairs on the market. Despite its featherlight construction, it offers impressive durability and stability, capable of supporting up to 265 pounds.
The Chair Zero features a minimalist design and utilizes Helinox's proprietary aluminum alloy frame. Setup is fast and easy, as the chair quickly unfolds and locks into place, providing a comfortable and surprisingly ergonomic seating position. The seat is made from a durable and breathable ripstop polyester fabric.
When not in use, the Chair Zero packs down into a small stuff sack which can be stored in a backpack, carried in a gear bag, or attached to the outside of a pack using the integrated strap.
Whether you're embarking on a backpacking trip, camping adventure, or need a portable chair when it’s BYOC, the Helinox Chair Zero is your reliable and lightweight best bet.
Shop helinox.com
Specializing in comfortable and supportive undergarments and activewear for women, Knix’ mission is to make women feel more comfortable in their own skin. Their products are designed with innovative features like moisture-wicking fabrics and leakproof technology, allowing women to feel confident and comfortable in their everyday lives and during physical activity.
Going braless has never felt better than in their one-of-a-kind tank, featuring the wire-free, built-in support and luxurious feel of their LuxeLift Technology. It has a sleek and seamless design that contours to the body, providing a comfortable and secure fit. The tank is made from a soft and breathable fabric blend that wicks away moisture and offers support for cup sizes A to G.
The Leakproof Skort is a game-changer, combining the comfort of a skirt with the protection of leakproof underwear. Made with a moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabric, the skort is perfect for getting sweaty or just taking a stroll. It also features hidden pockets for carrying essentials like keys and a phone.
Shop knix.com
Designed in Vancouver, Canada, this incredibly comfy oversized linen button down shirt sits below the bum and is super flattering with an intentionally washed look. It’s fast drying—great for humidity and sweaty days—and feels light and breathable against the skin.
You can leave the sleeves down or roll them up, and wear it tucked in, untucked, unbuttoned, half buttoned, buttoned all the way up, or under a sweater, so it’s perfect for casual outings, casual offices, weekend getaways, as a beach cover up, and so much more.
Founded by two former Lululemon execs, Left on Friday is widely known for their swimsuits and sponsor Team Canada’s Women’s Beach Volleyball team. The brand has a sophisticated yet relaxed aesthetic, with a collection of pieces that can seamlessly transition from casual to more formal occasions, making it a go-to choice for those seeking fashion-forward and responsible clothing options.
As for the button down, maybe get two, since you will want to wear this every day.
Shop leftonfriday.com
Miik is a Canadian clothing brand that specializes in sustainable and ethically-made clothing. Their Lisa2 "smoothwear" legging is a standout piece in their collection, featuring a wildly popular 4" waistband that can be folded over at the hip or worn high-waisted for an ultra comfortable, flattering control top.
These opaque leggings will not lose their shape or fade, and they feel fantastic against your skin with minimal stitching. In addition to being exceptionally comfortable, these leggings are versatile and can be dressed up or down for a seamless transition from day to night. They are available in both regular and capri lengths in black and navy.
Miik's commitment to sustainable practices and ethical manufacturing is evident. They custom mill their fabrics from sustainably-sourced fibres to be buttery soft, breathable, and feature 4-way stretch—no stiff, restrictive, scratchy clothing here! The High Waisted Legging embodies Miik's dedication to creating fashionable, eco-conscious clothing options that allows women to look and feel their best.
Shop miik.ca
Based in Israel, Ripple Yoga Wear has a clear vision: to design and create clothing from earth (and body) friendly materials that enable optimal movement.
Whether worn for yoga, to the market, or just lounging around, their Slouchy Capri Pants are crafted from a bio-based, oh-so-soft modal fabric made from the bark of the beech tree. They are comfy and breathable with deep pockets, a wide waistband, and leg cuffs to pull up or down.
Paired with the Slouchy Capri Pants, Ripple’s Lounge Kimono Cardigan completes a chic and effortless look. This lightweight cardigan is designed with a relaxed fit and a flattering drape, making it an ideal layering piece that exudes a sense of laid-back sophistication.
Ripple believes comfort is more than simply being comfortable, it's about the ease of mind and body that comes when all your needs are met, and they hope that how you feel in what you wear will ripple through to other places in your life.
Shop rippleyogawear.com
Ruffwear is all about high-performance gear for dogs, offering durable and functional products that enhance the outdoor adventures of our furry friends.
Their Bivy™ Collapsible Dog Bowl is a portable and lightweight solution for providing food and water to pups on the go. Made from a rugged and waterresistant fabric, this bowl is built to withstand the outdoors. Engineered to have structure while expanded, the collapsible flat-pack design and welded fabric loop make it easy to carry along in a backpack or attach to gear when you’re ready to go.
Featuring a stable base, non-slip bottom, and a capacity of 1.8 litres, the bowl is suitable for both small and large dogs. It has a wide opening, making it easy to pour water and allowing dogs to comfortably drink. The bowl is not only practical but also super light, easy to clean, and quick-drying, with reflective trim for visibility (a surprisingly awesome feature in low-light!).
Shop ruffwear.com
YETI is renowned for its durable and high-performance outdoor products, and their Rambler line is no slouch.
The Rambler One Gallon Jug is designed for outdoor adventures or long trips. It features double-wall vacuum insulation and a sturdy stainless steel construction. With its large capacity, this jug offers up almost 24 hours' worth of water to follow you from the gym to the ranch and back home.
YETI's 14 oz and 24 oz Rambler Mugs are designed for everyday use and are equally suitable for outdoor activities. Constructed with kitchen-grade 18/8 stainless steel, these mugs are incredibly durable and resistant to rust and punctures. The double-wall vacuum insulation keeps hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold, while the welded handle means a firm grip. The mugs feature a clear, dishwasher-safe lid that prevents splashes.
YETI's Rambler products are renowned for their ruggedness and ability to withstand the toughest conditions. The gorgeous High Desert Clay colour line you see here is a limited edition so get ‘em before they’re gone!
Shop yeti.com
Committed to innovation, Solight Design is paving the way for beautifully designed and energy-efficient lighting solutions. Their solar lanterns are crafted using lightweight, flexible, and recyclable materials. The lanterns feature builtin solar panels that harness the power of the sun, converting it into clean, renewable energy, making them ideal for off-grid adventures, camping trips, or emergency situations.
Solight Design's solar lanterns are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. They come in various designs, providing ambient lighting that adds a touch of style to any space. The lanterns are collapsible and compact, allowing for easy storage and portability when not in use.
Through their "Give a Light" initiative, Solight Design donates lanterns to communities in need during times of natural disaster and war, providing safe and sustainable lighting solutions to those without access to electricity. These solar lanterns not only reduce reliance on fossil fuels but also contribute to positive social change, making them an excellent choice for eco-conscious folks looking for reliable and environmentally-friendly lighting solutions.
Shop solight-design.com
Sara Ottley is Campervan Retreats’ creator and a passionate VW owner whose aim is to create wellbeing retreats that offer a chance to escape ‘normal life’ and spend time in one’s own beloved campervan with other like-minded souls.
Her journey began more than 15 years ago when she left the fire service to pursue a career in the health and wellness sector. Over the years, she developed a deep love for yoga, and as a result, a more rounded approach to health and fitness emerged, focusing more on wellness and happiness rather than just “fitness.”
She became a health and lifestyle coach and qualified as a yoga teacher to enable her to support her clients further. Three gorgeous kids later she was ready for a change of direction. They wanted more adventures as a family, so she managed to persuade her husband Neil into investing in a VW Campervan. This is when ‘Bruno’ the campervan joined her family in February 2022.
The idea of Campervan Retreats came to Sara when she was daydreaming about how wonderful it would be to escape on her own with Bruno—no kids, no dog, no husband, no hassles. Campervan Retreats offers a self-catering solution for women to enjoy energizing activities in the most beautiful UK locations. The focus is on fun and female connection with a variety of activities such as yoga, walking, SUP, paddle-board yoga, mindfulness, sociable crafting circles, drumming circles, foraging, sound therapy, hiking, and wild swimming.
We connected with Sara at her home in Maidstone, Kent, to learn more about her unique retreats.
SARA: As a busy mom of three, I have been working within the health and wellbeing industry since 2006; during that time, I built and sold a successful Londonbased personal training business and delivered large boot camps, wellbeing events and Vinyasa yoga classes.
Campervan Retreats evolved from my love of bringing like-minded people together in the pursuit of adventure, friendship and self-care. I realized that the thing I would love to do the most was jump in my own campervan and wave goodbye to the madness of home life for a few days to find peace, tranquillity, exercise and personal development. But where would I go alone? I thought there must be many other campervan owners who feel the same, so in Spring 2022, Campervan Retreats was born.
Campervan Retreats offers female van owners a wonderful space to relax and unwind in nature in the most beautiful locations around the U.K. The wellness retreat atmosphere is welcoming, warm and fun-filled. We focus on wellbeing and happiness, which runs through the core of all we do. Solo or with friends, this is a time to connect and share, find space to breathe and let go of the stress and worries, finding a real connection with yourself and with the other likeminded ladies on each retreat.
WE FOCUS ON WELLBEING AND HAPPINESS, WHICH RUNS THROUGH THE CORE OF ALL WE DO.
CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT THE PHILOSOPHY OR VALUES THAT DRIVE CAMPERVAN RETREATS AND HOW THEY SHAPE THE OVERALL EXPERIENCE?
The core values are all based around nature, personal growth, and unwinding from the stresses and strains of everyday life. My main goal is for each and every woman who attends to leave feeling happier, healthier, and more empowered than they did when they arrived.
The idea of Campervan Retreats for women evolved from a lifelong passion for VW campervans, spending time in nature and bringing women together to live happier, healthier lives. The events offer women a chance to escape a busy life for a couple of nights away to revive and enjoy their own van feeling safe and secure with other similar souls around them. The retreats offer a mix of girl talk, wellness workshops and movement-based sessions and activities, plus some free time to enjoy solo time and nature.
HOW DO YOU SELECT AND CURATE THE LOCATIONS WHERE CAMPERVAN RETREATS ARE SITUATED? WHAT FACTORS DO YOU CONSIDER IN CHOOSING THESE DESTINATIONS?
I have to take quite a lot into consideration when seeking out ideal locations as we need to have good access for the campervans to safely spread out and park up with great views for every van attending, peace and quiet away from any road noise, and also a comfortable communal space to come together. It's great being able to look nationwide, as I have women across the UK coming along. People often contact me with suggestions of secret gems they have visited or know already, so that is a great help.
My favourite retreat destination overseas is Crete. The Island is beautiful, the terrain offers something for everyone, the people are generous and welcoming, the sea is warm and clear, and the food is fresh and mouthwatering. My favourite Campervan Retreat location in the UK is our private Lake venue in East Sussex, where we get to paddleboard directly from the terrace.
The biggest surprise so far is how many people rebook! Women with campervans often feel nervous to travel or go it alone, so coming along on my retreats offers them time in their own beloved vans but in the safety of a group of like-minded women. I’ve also learnt how absolutely exhausting it can be delivering a full weekend retreat! I sleep like a baby afterwards, always with a big smile on my face.
I think retreats are becoming more accessible and niche; they don’t have to be just about vegan food, yoga, or meditation. I believe it is essential to combine interests outside of wellbeing to allow people to come together with like-minded individuals.
Visit
The smell of fresh tortillas and homemade refried beans wafted through the air. The scorching sun beat down on us as we made our way to the center of the town square.
As I turned to stand in my appropriate place on the small stage, I was enthralled by the site of the crowd gathering around us in anticipation and curiosity. I was 12 years old, in a country far away, and I was there to serve.
This is my earliest memory of mixing travel and service. As a child of the theatre, my talent to entertain and teach was the most precious commodity I could offer at a young age. And so, a small band of eager preteens from across the US loaded on an airplane and set off for rural Mexico to entertain, to educate, and to serve.
Overthe next three decades, I would continue to find joy and meaning in giving of my time, talent and financial resources in this way. From building houses in Nicaragua to teaching financial literacy in Sierra Leone; from planting urban gardens in Baltimore to sorting books for Africa in Atlanta—the destination rarely mattered, it was the connections that made all the difference.
I find giving back to be as selfish as it is selfless. What I can give to others pales in comparison to what I gain from others and, even more, learn about myself. While I still enjoy the frivolity and relaxation of a simple vacation, the more I turn my travel into service work, the more addictive it becomes to my soul.
Service travel has proven to be a priceless commodity to who I am as a human, teaching me culture and traditions, vulnerability and openheartedness, creativity and solitude. I have been privileged to witness the best of humanity and the evil remnants of the worst. I believe each and every experience I have used my precious capital to provide is an investment in my future self, albeit of a different kind— the intrinsic kind that can neither be fully explained nor fully appreciated by anyone but me and those working beside me. It is my literal take on my favourite Robin Sharma quote:
Life is a mirror. And life gives us not what we want, life gives us who we are.
READY TO TAKE THE LEAP AND SEE HOW YOU LIKE THE INTERTWINING OF SERVICE AND TRAVEL? HERE ARE A FEW TIPS TO GET YOU STARTED.
Do you stop to pet every dog you meet, or do the elderly pull at your heartstrings? Do you enjoy using your hands in physical labour, or do you prefer to use your intellectual or emotional talents to help others? To find causes you really believe in, look within yourself and at your natural inclinations. Even if you have never embarked on giving back through service, somewhere in your heart, you already know where you would find joy in contributing.
Let’s face it, service trips are not cushy, comfortable tourist experiences. Often, they involve hard work, scant accommodations, and challenging environments. However, those conditions are precisely why they have such a lasting impact. In Western societies, we are privileged to have hundreds of creature comforts at our fingertips. But that privilege can also have the consequence of muting our sense of gratitude. Placing ourselves squarely in the uncomfortable allows us to reconnect with that sense of appreciation for all our blessings.
One of the best aspects of travel, in general, is the connections we make with those around us if we are open. Aside from the cause itself and the way in which you give back, find ways to surround yourself with the right kind of energy. If you are strongly connected to your religion, perhaps a church or faith-based nonprofit could be a good fit. If you prefer a gender or ethnicity-based group, find those. The more connected you feel to the energy around you, the better you can give of yourself.
There is no way to know what your experience will be like when you take the leap into the unknown. It could be filled with Instagram-worthy moments of beauty or backbreaking heat and travel delays. You might be moved to tears regularly or simply take home a few memories. We cannot force emotional connection any more than we can force spiritual enlightenment. So release any expectations of a life-altering experience and just enjoy every moment as it is.
In my book Incongruent: Travel, Trauma, Transformation, I illustrate my personal mantra: When you see life as an adventure, it is never unrequited. Viewing life as an adventure means you cannot be disappointed. Adventures might have unexpected twists and turns, but they are all a beautiful part of the ride. Using your time and talents to give to others is a special kind of adventure. The kind that leaves lasting memories and imprints on your soul. Embrace it. We have only this one life to leave our mark.
And so, I challenge you to think about your life adventure and how you can intermingle it with impacting others. You might change someone’s life— and that someone might just be you.
Melanie Sue Hicks, author of Incongruent: Travel, Trauma, Transformation, is an adventure-seeking, social impact advocate dedicated to helping others overcome fear and live their dharma. She has led or participated in more than fifty service projects internationally, and is dedicated to creating an impact and amplifying the impact of others every day.
Order her book at melaniehicks.org.
As an empathy-driven author, and education, nonprofit, and workplace expert, she has been featured in Forbes.com, Marie Claire, Authority Magazine, See Beyond Magazine, The District, Doctor’s Life Magazine and more. As an experienced motivational speaker and master facilitator, using her custom 3E Method of Change©, she offers training to organizations focused on helping to navigate the future of education and work for increased retention, productivity, and revenue.
Back by popular demand, our reader mailbag! This email was sent in from Michelle H. in New York.
Hi, Wander! I am hoping to do some solo nomadic travel this Fall, working and living on the road for about 8 weeks. I’ll be leaving from upstate New York and renting an RV from a friend, and my question is about planning my route … should it be totally planned in advance, or should I just plan the first week or so and let things sort of take me where they will after that? I want to get the most from this trip in terms of self-discovery and challenging my comfort zone as feeling a bit stuck in my life, but also feeling massive anxiety about having no plan as a solo female.
What a wonderful adventure you have ahead! After living and travelling on the west coast of the USA, Australia, and New Zealand in my van, I can confirm that travelling with an RV is one of the best ways to explore a new place. It gives you a great sense of freedom and, at the same time, the security of having your home always with you.
From your question, I can see that the main reason for your travel is to reconnect with yourself, experience new things, and maybe find a new purpose in your current days. If sightseeing and "tourism" come second, I would allow yourself some space in planning and itinerary. It is definitely good to do a bit of research and highlight a few main points around the route where you want to stop and what you want to see. And maybe have a few first overnight stops planned, so you can relax and get used to this kind of travelling.
But often, a tight itinerary is rather stressful if you start to fall behind. Locals will recommend places for you to visit; you might meet new friends on a route and join them for a couple of days, or you will fall in love with some small town and decide to spend a few days there. In the first week, allow yourself to see what rhythm and pace suit you, and if you feel comfortable, everything else will fall into place. Eight weeks is a great time to experience a lot of adventures!
Don't forget to download a useful app for freedom camping, like iOverlander or FreeRoam and download the GPS maps of your route ahead from Google Maps or HereWeGo. Have a safe trip, and enjoy your journey.
This sounds like a wonderful journey of solo travel and reflection. As a long-term travel coach, I lean more towards planning out your first week, assessing what is going well and what can be adjusted, and continuing to plan out a few days to a week in advance at a time. By setting the intention of self-discovery, I imagine you will be checking in with yourself more often and finding out what you enjoy during this journey.
It may seem counterintuitive but when we travel solo, more people tend to be curious about who we are and what we are doing. You may find yourself with invitations to join other people for a meal or special experience. Having flexibility gives you the option to join in if you wish to.
There are also some logistical concerns to consider. If you plan to stay around the northeast in the peak fall foliage season, there could potentially be limited RV spaces in designated campgrounds. If fast wifi is necessary for your work, this also may require some more advanced planning to ensure you have the resources you need.
Some locations may also have a stronger pull for you than others. Sometimes you may feel complete after a shorter time than expected in one location, and another location begs for more time. By having flexibility, you can spend more time in the places that you really connect with. I wish you a fantastic journey!
Katie Hart Long-Term Travel Coach at Fulfilled Passport Travel fulfilledpassporttravel.com
As you embark on this exciting new adventure, I understand the anxiety that comes with travelling alone as a woman. First and foremost, I want to congratulate you on taking this courageous step for yourself. It is an act of self-love that has the potential to truly change your life.
To help ease your worries, let's break down the eight-week journey into manageable pieces and plan for each week. Take some time to decide on the route you'll be taking, the parks or areas where you'll park your RV for the night or day, and even plan out the activities you'll enjoy each week. This kind of detailed planning will bring a sense of calm and reassurance. Knowing that you have a solid plan in place will alleviate some of the stress and give you peace of mind for the physical aspects of the trip.
It's important to remember that plans can change along the way, and that's okay. By planning ahead and addressing any concerns or anxieties, you are proving to yourself that you have the capability to overcome any challenges that may arise. This initial stage of planning and the belief in yourself will boost your confidence and propel you into the next phase of your journey.
I suggest carrying a notebook with you throughout your travels. Whenever you encounter a thought or situation that causes anxiety, write it down. Then, on the following page, counter each anxious thought with a positive affirmation. Reflect on similar situations in the past where you have triumphed over your fears.
For example, if the fear of travelling alone as a woman arises, remind yourself that countless women have embarked on similar trips and succeeded. By acknowledging your fears and replacing them with positive thoughts, you will strengthen your inner resolve.
Undoubtedly, the most challenging moment will be when you leave the comfort of your home and set off on the open road. However, once you take that first step and start driving, you will realize that you have already conquered your fears. From that point forward, follow your plans, knowing that they may evolve as you gain confidence and become more comfortable. Embrace the opportunity to be spontaneous and go with the flow, trusting in yourself and the journey itself.
For now, try not to worry about self-discovery or feeling stuck in life. These questions will naturally unfold as you venture along the road. Remember that some things may not go as planned, and that's perfectly alright. Trust that everything is always working out for your benefit. You'll discover that strangers can be kinder and more helpful than you might initially think. Trust your intuition and allow it to guide you.
Lastly, be immensely proud of yourself and approach this journey with compassion. You are embarking on an incredible adventure, and you are doing exceptionally well.
Congratulations on planning to set off on your solo travel adventure! It's an exciting and adventurous decision, guaranteed to provide you with many opportunities for self-reflection and discovery.
As far as planning your route, that is really a matter of personal preference. If departing without a plan causes you distressing anxiety, remember, this is your trip, and you get to decide how you want to travel! Don’t feel pressured to go without an itinerary if that reduces your angst and makes you more excited about your trip.
Even with a planned schedule, you’ll still have many experiences that challenge you and push you outside of your comfort zone. Travel, by its very nature, is filled with unknowns and new experiences, so you will continually be growing in ways that will transform you. You will be meeting new people, solving unfamiliar challenges on your own, and learning to back up that giant RV—you’ll be seeing every day what a badass solo traveller you really are!
It’s fantastic you are travelling in the fall since you’ll have access to campsites that are fully booked in summer. But you will likely find that prime spots like those right next to rivers, beaches, and national parks need to be reserved, especially if your RV is large. If these top campsites are a high priority for you, I recommend booking in advance, even if you keep other parts of your itinerary loose.
If you set out with at least your first week planned and some of your top destinations already booked, you can change it up as you go – adding or letting go of reservations as your adventure unfolds. With your strong sense of self and your spirit of adventure, you are sure to have an unforgettable and life-changing trip!
The Travel Coach Network (TCN) is the world's first and largest searchable database of travel coaches around the globe who help people use travel as a tool for wellbeing, healing, personal growth, professional development, and transformative experiences. The TCN is also home to the world's first and only ICF-accredited certification program for Certified Travel Coaches.
Enroll today to become a certified travel coach!
BY JOCELYN NEWMAN
We decided last summer that we were ready for a leap of faith, a new chapter, and a little bit of crazy. We gave up our San Francisco apartment, sold and donated nearly all our possessions, and set off to travel and enjoy more time as a family and in the outdoors.
The timing of our departure wasn’t exactly “perfect,” if there’s such a thing as perfect timing. We had a one-and-a-halfyear-old with a blossoming personality and a strong desire to leverage his new walking, running, and climbing skills. I had just launched a new baby and toddler clothing line called First Peak, inspired by our own adventures and travel outdoors.
While my husband and I are privileged to have about ten years of experience working in tech, a highly remote-friendly industry, we both had to give up our nine-to-fives to make this a reality. We didn’t know exactly how far we’d go or how long it would take, so we planned the key logistics with maximal flexibility: we opted for a cell service provider with limited international call fees. We figured out health care coverage both domestically and abroad. We coaxed our families into accepting our forwarded mail and pitching in on pet care.
Finally, perhaps fueled by years of pent-up pandemic energy or crazed by the exhaustion of raising a toddler, we set off. We started our journey with a cross-country road trip from the Bay Area to New England, leaving a few sentimental items in the smallest storage unit we could rent and packing our car with everything else we still owned.
Our toddler and dog shared the backseat, separated by a tall stack of books, toys, and snacks. Our trunk looked like a lifesize version of a game of Jenga: all my First Peak inventory provided a solid base that ate up about 40% of our trunk space (I’m lucky baby clothes are small—it could have been far heftier!). On top, we piled in two camping packs and stuffed any open crevices with spare diapers and all-weather layers.
In our near-month of driving across the US, we spent most of every day outside, enjoying the long summer days and warm, gushing waterways. We hiked each morning, drove a long stretch during naptime, and broke up the afternoon with pit stops, parks, viewpoints, and more driving.
We learned the most efficient ways to load and unload a car while entertaining a toddler and dog. We became experts in the “goblin meal,” throwing together a hodgepodge of leftovers and snacks to compose something nutritious and kid-friendly. We were grateful for the hospitality of many friends and family members who offered us cozy beds and hot showers.
Perhaps the most memorable part of the journey was one we didn’t plan: at some point in western Montana, I had the idea to post about our trip to a Facebook group of outdoorsy moms. I shared that we were travelling across the country with a trunk full of sustainable adventurewear for babies and toddlers from a growing, mom-owned business that had just launched. I asked for recommendations for hikes but also if anyone would be interested in meeting up, trying the clothes with their kids, giving feedback, and taking a few photos.
The response blew me away. Over the course of our drive, we met about 20 families, and all had the opportunity to try First Peak. This fledgling business that I had dreamt of for so long was suddenly reaching communities that I was getting to know firsthand.
At each stop, we’d ask the locals to recommend a great hike, and we’d arrive and pop the trunk. Families could
touch, react, and pick out their favourite First Peak items, and we found wonderful, hidden hikes we’d never have discovered otherwise. Our son had a chance to play with (and frankly, quietly watch) many new kids, and we were able to meet and spend afternoons with like-minded parents.
At the end of each hike, most families would purchase a few additional items. Many would offer to post and share with friends. A special few we’ll keep in touch with many trips and adventures to come.
Three and a half weeks later, upon arriving to see my in-laws in Boston, there was certainly a sigh of relief: the relief of staying in the same place for more than three nights, the relief of fully unpacking (and washing) the car; the relief of home-cooked meals that someone else was cooking. But we also mourned the end of that first segment of our adventure and itched for the next leg.
OVER THE COURSE OF OUR DRIVE, WE MET ABOUT 20 FAMILIES, AND ALL HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO TRY FIRST PEAK. THIS FLEDGLING BUSINESS THAT I HAD DREAMT OF FOR SO LONG WAS SUDDENLY REACHING COMMUNITIES THAT I WAS GETTING TO KNOW FIRSTHAND.
We went into our trip expecting challenges, and we certainly encountered them: flat tires, surprise thunderstorms, multiple lost baby shoes. But we also realized how normal, safe, and special it could feel to settle into family time in nature every day.
In many ways, our adventure further inspired and fueled my business, and the clothes themselves enabled more adventuring—my son wore First Peak each day, and having clothes purpose-built to dry fast, block the sun, and resist odour made a world of difference when a washing machine was a rare amenity.
I now look back, about a year later, and I’m so grateful for how that first month on the road laid the foundation for so much more adventuring. My family has continued our journey of nomadic travel for 11 additional months, with a few more months planned ahead of us. At the end of each phase—the lap around Europe, the drive across New Zealand, the bopping around East Asia—we reflect and try to figure out what’s next. There’s seldom a clear “plan,” but at the very least, we aim to remain bold, optimistic, and adventurous, remembering that community can be built and enjoyed even when on the move.
BY CHRISTOPHER LUDGATE
I woke along the fields outside of Casablanca with its grazing herds and silvery olive trees. The rising sun lit the swooping valleys and carved crops in shades of nude and burnt tangerine as I made my way south. From this long stretch of highway, farmers and shepherds shielded by their brimmed palm leaf hats were visible, immersed in this agriculturally rich but barely industrialized Northern African region.
My journey through Marrakech, the Ourika Valley in the High Atlas, and the Agafay Desert would soon cultivate an admiration for Moroccan culture’s integral relationship with nature.
Exploring rural nooks, a bit of nomadic culture, and an organic tajine cooking class with Atelier Chef Tarik, I’d soon learn firsthand just how a connection to nature is a deeply valued part of the culture’s customs and identity in the Kingdom of Morocco.
Above the chaotic bustle of the streets and the mazes of the medinas in Marrakech, a layer of peaceful calm hovered in the atmosphere. Locals had begun their celebration of Eid al-Fitr in unleashed revelry below. The uniform suede terracotta structures, ubiquitous to the city as a gesture of modesty, absorbed a hue of pink from the setting sun.
With this modesty, I felt a sense of mystery, too.
Moments earlier, on a tour that led to the roof gardens of Riad Kniza, world-renowned antique dealer Haj Mohamed Bouskri shared his deep cultural knowledge while guiding me through a treasure chest inside his authentically restored 18th-century luxury riad. Exploring the exquisitely displayed collection of unique artifacts, Bouskri revealed intriguing insights, including that of the Amazigh nomads of Morocco’s past.
He explained that the Arabic word riad means garden. That being made clear, I understood the practice of “bringing the outside in” with cultural architecture. Perhaps best exemplified in Marrakech’s historic Bahia Palace, the keyhole doorways, the mosaic and zellij tiles, and the courtyard gardens are classic Moroccan riad. Feminine symbolism, a language in itself, is notably ever-present, like in tapestries and Berber doors that hung before us in Riad Kniza.
The detailed Moorish architecture of Riad Kniza houses eleven rooms, plus an elegant hammam beside the garden pool. The jovial collector has a long history of hosting countless VIPs and world leaders here, no doubt for its charm and gastronomy. The stars appeared as I was bathed in the rooftop gardens with attentive hospitality, a Moroccan feast, tea, and such pretty tajines.
Along the winding red dirt roads in High Atlas Morocco, we reached an overlook in the Valley of Ourika, named for its Berber tribe. A lone souk welcomed me into his roadside market of vibrant pottery as my friend and I wandered, admiring the river and unspoiled landscape of cedar, oak, and unique flora.
Further up, intimate glimpses of the rural village intrigued me. We encountered a women-owned and run Argan Oil Cooperative that’s been cultivated here for some time. Sitting in a small circle, workers sang an endearing song while hand-pressing local argan, almonds, and roasted peanuts, siphoning out the aromatic goodness in their ancestral tradition. Fresh bread was offered to sample the nutritious delights with tea.
The cooperative is comprised of rural widowed and divorced women, I was told, to establish empowerment. In addition to the socioeconomic element, the initiative is also one of promoting protection for the forests. These natural commodities would be used for a variety of beauty, skincare, and fragrance products that lined the shelves like a Sephora.
So, I began my Christmas shopping.
The beautiful view of Lake Lalla while feasting on rustic pizzas and vino and that fresh aromatic paella at Casa Lalla Takerkoust had all the feel of a Mediterranean oasis. Just an hour outside Marrakech, it was a delicious way to unwind from a day of scenic exploring.
I had just come from Jardin Bioaromatic. Touted as the first medicinal aromatherapy garden in Morocco, it is described as “a place committed to the environment, the senses, and well-being,” my guide, Fatima, informed me.
Founded by the French-speaking Belkamel brothers of Marrakech (one an aromatherapist, the other a pharmacist), this old potato field was transformed into a horticultural haven, creating a natural cosmetics product lab called Nectarome. Conducting practical research on plants is combined with “an awareness-raising dimension for the public here.”
The fragrances were thick and abundant, wafting from vivid plots of flora as I admired and meandered. We were awash in an atmosphere of instantaneous therapy and pure beauty. Jasmine, rosemary, citrus, musky oud, and more abound. The garden’s services include herbology, tea workshops, foot baths, and Moroccan bread making.
Wandering the labyrinth within the hovering gardens of Jardin Majorelle was an immersive sensory experience. The ever-present birdsong of Marrakech was in full chorus here. It would be easy to have an entire morning lingering about the luxurious landscape and its nooks; escaping, exploring in solitude.
Indeed, the garden was created as a sanctuary by French painter Jaques Majorelle beginning in 1922, growing to two acres of exotic botanicals forty years following. But the gardens are not the only attraction here. Beyond the lush green is a grand reveal of a Cubist-inspired villa built for Majorelle.
Enamoured with the vibrant tiles of Marrakech, the painter fell in love with a particular shade of cobalt blue he favoured so that he fully bathed the villa in the colour. It went on to become his own patented shade called Bleu Majorelle.
After his passing, along came French fashion legend Yves Saint-Laurent and partner Pierre Bergé who restored the famously unique property many flock to from all over like a pilgrimage. The Yves Sainte-Laurent Museum sits beside, not so modestly, adjacent to the Nomadic Berber Museum.
Heading into the Agafay Desert for a taste of Bedouin life, I was grateful to rest. I won’t pretend it wasn’t a bit of glamping, but the breathtaking scenery and silhouettes of camels against the saturated sunset lent the tone. I could wonder more relatively about life as a wandering nomad. Light effusion was nill but for the bonfire creating atmosphere as African drums approached from the distance. It was off the grid for sure, but I was still able to get a glass of Provencal rosé with my couscous.
Christopher Ludgate is a professional writer, photographer, and filmmaker. With many roads travelled on soul-nourishing itineraries, his travel stories combine culture, nature, wellness, art, and history. A longtime advocate and volunteer, one of his award-winning films documents his inspiring experience in service to NYC grass-roots organization, God’s Love We Deliver. Connect with Chris at wanderamatravel.com and at @wanderamatravel.
BY SAHARA ROSE DE VORE
It’s no secret that travel is essential for the success of many businesses. The relationships built, connections made, and deals closed are some driving factors for why companies travel for business. But imagine having to be on the road every month, heading to Tokyo, New York, Hong Kong, or Mumbai. That much travel has been shown to take a significant toll on travellers' mental and physical health, emotional wellbeing, relationships, personal satisfaction, and work performance.
Pre-pandemic, there was a roaring burnout epidemic wreaking havoc on business travellers, with an increase in obesity levels, poor habits like smoking or excessive drinking of alcohol, poor diet, unhappy relationships, and high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.
Business travellers were expected to accept their constant travelling, keep up with their work expectations, succeed with the purpose of the trip, and stay well, all while their employers provided little to no support for maintaining and improving their wellbeing. Understandably, the bottom line matters in business, but whatever happened to the care and consideration of employees and treating them as the human beings that they are? Without happy employees, companies will struggle with high turnover rates, poor company morale, lack of company ambassadors, low productivity, increased health costs, and unwell employees who do the bare minimum while their health deteriorates.
But what if business travel didn’t have take a toll on employees’ health and wellbeing? What if travel was used as a tool to help people improve their mental, physical, emotional, spiritual, personal, and professional wellbeing? What if travel was a source of inspiration, creativity, and productivity?
What if we flipped the script on how and why people travel for business?
It’s not as far-fetched of an idea as it may sound. For decades, studies have shown how beneficial travel can be for our overall wellbeing. The simple act of changing environments, the new sights, sounds, feelings, smells, and sensations, spark different synapsis in the brain, which can spark creativity. Spending time in blue spaces—near the sea, lakes, ponds, or waterfalls—or green spaces such as parks, forests, or gardens, decreases stress and anxiety levels. Meeting new people can improve your empathy, compassion, understanding, and acceptance of others through simple human connection while enriching your social wellbeing. Getting outdoors, hiking, walking around a new city, running along the beach, or biking a new trail can improve your physical wellbeing. Eating healthy foods or fresh fruits and vegetables you don’t often have access to can support smarter eating habits.
Employees expect a lot more from the companies they choose to work for now, especially if the company expects them to travel often. During the pandemic, people were given a taste of freedom, time with their families, improved wellbeing, a reassessment of values, and personal fulfilment. So companies need to rethink how they attract and keep their business travellers, and their approach to wellness has much to do with this.
Wellness dashboards are popping up in the corporate travel world, like that at Navan and Egencia, which focus on measuring traveller friction points like the length of flights, number of layovers, number of weekends travelled, length of layovers, and business vs economy class. However, there is more to a traveller’s wellbeing than just their stress level.
Studies have shown business travellers’ increased interest in incorporating aspects of leisure into their trips. Known as bleisure—combining leisurely activities into a business trip—can help decrease the deterioration of a traveller’s wellbeing. Some examples include extending a trip by a day or two, bringing a spouse or loved one along, and engaging in fun activities while on the trip.
Companies are trying to cut costs in their corporate travel programs, not increase them, but wellness on the road doesn’t have to be expensive. With proper education and support for travelling employees, there
are simple ways for travellers to take charge of their mental, physical, emotional, and overall wellbeing without costing the company or themselves.
For example, educating employees on how beneficial different aspects of travel can be for them and empowering them to make better decisions on how to spend their time best can help. Information like: what a simple walk or 20 minutes in nature can do for them; the importance of sparking conversation for new stories and new perspectives; what the destination has to offer in terms of nature, culture, and community; encouraging employees to explore a bit more and exercise their navigation skills, maybe wander a local market and try new foods.
When purpose is placed on a trip, and intentions are set on what to be more mindful of when it comes to personal goals and wellbeing, companies need to step it up and offer a more well-rounded approach to how and why employees travel for business.
Sahara Rose De Vore is a Wellness Travel Coach and Founder of The Travel Coach Network. Sahara went from broke college student to traveling to 84 countries solo to becoming the CEO of her travel businesses. She believes that there is more to a travel career than just blogging and booking trips which led her to create the world's first and only ICF-accredited certification program for travel coaches. Sahara is a published author, global speaker, and TEDx speaker, and has been in over 140 media outlets for her travel and business expertise, including Forbes, Travel Weekly, Conde Nast Traveler, and CNN Travel. Sahara was also named one of 2023’s Most Influential Women in Travel by TravelPulse. Connect with her at sahararosetravels.com.
