Exploring a new environment can spark new creative ideas, but there are some things to consider before going on a journey.

Travel is a profound source of inspiration for most people. However, planning trips that truly inspire and provide meaningful satisfaction requires intention, respect, and a commitment to ethical travel practices. While I don't claim to be an expert or the perfect traveler, I do care about trying my best when I am a guest in someone else's world. Here’s how I plan my trips to ensure they are both enriching and mindful.

Choosing Destinations with Heart

When selecting a destination, I focus on places that offer rich cultural experiences and opportunities for deep connection. I avoid the usual franchise resorts and heavily commercialized areas that often overshadow the local community and culture. In alignment with practices of ethical travel, I tend to only go places where I'm specifically invited by locals who want me to visit them. I try to avoid seeking out destinations where I have no personal connection to anyone from that part of the world. I am someone who needs to immerse myself in the local culture and history. For these reasons, I don't end up traveling too much---but I don’t feel like I'm missing out either, because when I do explore new places it's always done in a way I feel good about. 

One such place that captured my heart is Guerrero, Mexico. The mountain region of this state is a vibrant tapestry of Indigenous culture, traditional crafts, and incredible cuisine. Staying with a family in their century-old adobe house, I learned about local customs firsthand and witnessed traditional weaving workshops. These experiences fueled my creativity and became mutually beneficial as I've become committed to advocating for these artisan weavers through my new project Global Hands. Visiting the pueblos of Mexico exposed me to the rich heritage of Indigenous communities and gave me the gift of a transformative life experience.

Embracing Local Cultures and Communities

Engaging with local Indigenous communities respectfully and authentically is paramount. I always try to understand the cultural norms of the places I visit. This often involves doing some homework beforehand and approaching each experience with humility and openness. Simple gestures like learning a few phrases in the local language or understanding the significance of cultural rituals go a long way in showing respect. In the case of my travels to Guerrero, when I was first invited to visit, an elder from the community gifted me a book he had written about his native heritage which I read on the flights and still reference to this day. 

It is essential to care enough about other communities to learn about their way of life. This includes investigating agricultural practices, gender norms, and community rituals. I try to avoid falling into the habit of comparing new places to my own way of life. It may be tempting to entertain small talk commentary pointing out how someone's diet, religion, or traditions are different from mine. Sometimes the locals in village environments are curious to know what life is really like in America, or New York City. And yes these conversations can be lighthearted and friendly. However, it is still an act of 'othering' and judgemental to make comments comparing differences in customs. When this topic comes up, I like to point out things we all have in common and anchor myself to our similarities more than our differences. 

Sustainable Travel Means Having Awareness

Whenever traveling, I ensure I'm on high alert to detect any activities that exploit people or the environment. If something does not feel right, I do not make excuses for my ignorance. One of the key principles I follow is to avoid poverty tourism, which can be harmful and demeaning. Instead, I focus on sustainable and community-based initiatives that empower local people. Volunteering with local organizations and listening to the villagers' concerns allows me to contribute positively without turning someone’s struggle into a spectacle.

Mindful travel is about being conscious of my impact on the environment and the communities I visit. This means minimizing my environmental footprint when I am in someone else's home. Many of us are programmed to default to the typical role of a tourist when we travel. I challenge myself to participate in beach and river clean-ups alongside locals, educating myself on wildlife preservation efforts, or environmental issues in the area. This makes my visit more meaningful and aligned with my values. Plus, the pristine beauty of remote parts of the world is sacred and endangered. It’s important to remember that ethical travel means seeking meaningful connections, and not taking for granted the resilience of the local community.

Creating Space for Reflection

Let's be real, traveling to an unfamiliar place can be challenging and unpredictable. The surroundings can become overstimulating with unfamiliar sensory input. Our minds are overworked by processing new sights, smells, tastes, and sounds. No one is immune to becoming overwhelmed during a difficult travel moment.  Sometimes I am exposed to unpleasant weather which can ruin our expectations. It is so important for me to understand my mental and physical limits when in a foreign place. To stay grounded and balanced, I prioritize my well-being and check in with myself regularly to assess if I'm communicating my needs in the best way possible. 

To truly harness the positive aspects of my travels, I carve out time for reflection. Whether I'm sitting quietly in a secluded spot, journaling my experiences, or meditating, these moments of introspection help me process and internalize the rich experiences I encounter. These quiet moments allow me to reflect deeply on my journey, sparking new ideas and perspectives. Contemplation can lead to improved self-awareness, a broader worldview, and bursts of creativity. I choose to give myself peace of mind so I can return home with fresh ideas and renewed energy.

Practical Travel Tips for Sensitive Souls (like me)

1. Research and Plan with Intention: Before embarking on a trip, I research destinations to understand their cultural and historical significance. Planning with intention ensures that my travels are meaningful and respectful, and gives me an idea of what to expect. 

2. Pack a Creative Toolkit: I always bring a small sketchbook, a journal, and basic art supplies. Capturing ideas on the go helps me stay connected to my creative process.

3. Stay with Locals: Choosing verified local accommodations provides authentic experiences without fueling gentrification.

4. Engage with the Community: I'll participate in local workshops, attend cultural events, and converse with residents. As the guest, I don’t allow myself to become centered in these experiences, and I don’t emphasize our differences.

5. Practice Mindfulness: With the right communication and sensory regulation tools, a break from my routine doesn't get me out of character. I practice traveling mindfully, being present in each moment, and letting go of the small details that cause stress. 

Conclusion

Traveling as a source of inspiration is about more than just visiting new places; it’s about engaging deeply with the world and allowing those experiences to transform me. By choosing destinations thoughtfully, embracing local cultures, practicing ethical travel, and creating space for reflection, I am making the best of these opportunities for myself and others around me. As I continue to explore, I carry these lessons with me, striving to travel with respect, intention, and a deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity of our world.