Traveling to a new country can be an exciting, yet challenging experience. One of the things that many people have trouble adjusting to is culture shock and cultural differences. Here are some tips on how you can adjust and enjoy your trip!

What is culture shock?

First, let’s discuss what culture shock is and how it shows up.

Culture shock is defined as the emotional distress that can result from a clash of cultures. Simply, it’s the period of cultural adjustment.

It can be difficult to predict how culture shock will make you feel. Many people experience symptoms such as homesickness and irritability after being exposed to an unfamiliar environment for some time.

Some common triggers are:

• seeing or hearing other languages in public places
• eating different kinds of food compared to food eaten at home
• having less privacy because the country has fewer personal boundaries between strangers.

People react differently to culture shock depending on their expectations, personality traits, and the degree of cultural differences.

Everyone will experience some form of culture shock when visiting a new country; it is natural and normal. But there are ways to prepare for its effects and lessen them so you can enjoy your trip more fully.

The Stages of Culture Shock

There are four main phases in which a traveler makes adjustments as they immerse and come into contact with a new culture. They are:

• The honeymoon phase: A traveler is very enthusiastic and excited about their new surroundings; they are typically too busy exploring to notice any differences between their culture that they left behind and the new one.
• The negotiation phase: Travelers begin to make adjustments as they become more aware of things not conforming to what was expected from their cultural perspective. For example, when a U.S. Citizen try Japanese food for the first time or if someone who speaks only English visits France and has trouble communicating with locals because it is primarily spoken there.
• Adjustment phase: Travelers may experience feelings of frustration related to language barriers or other misunderstandings due to different cultures while still managing some sense of normalcy. It is at this phase that travelers begin to adjust to the culture and new environment.
• Adaptation phase: Travelers begin to adapt to the new environment the longer they remain in their host country and environment. Acclimating to their new environment becomes easier.

So how do you get through it? Tips on Coping

Here are some tips on coping with culture shock:

1. Learn about the culture of your host country: Learn as much as you can about your host country and culture before arriving. While preparation doesn’t give you every detail about a country and its culture, it certainly could help you understand and become aware of the cultural differences in advance.
2. Be careful with your expectations:  Do not expect everything to happen the same way like at home!
3. Be open-minded: Traveling and/or living in another country can be challenging, but your willingness to consider another perspective and being receptive to differences can help you through this period of transition.  
4. Accept change as a normal part of life:  You may find your culture shock gradually dissipates as you become more accustomed to the new country and its culture.
5. Do not isolate yourself: Try to stay active. If you’re an extrovert, join social groups or volunteer for a community service project that will help you connect with locals outside of tourist circles. If you’re an introvert, get outdoors or journal so that you can process your experience.
6. Be honest about your feelings:  Even if you’re feeling overwhelmed and confused, try to be open about what’s going on in your mind. Get comfortable embracing all of your emotions through your transition. Dismissing your feelings could prolong the adjustment phase, keeping you from reaching the adaptation stage.
7. Accept the help of others: When someone offers support or guidance, don’t reject it.

Read About The Founder’s Story

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Traveling for the first time can be a bit overwhelming. Where do you even start? What if you’re anxious about going to a new place? These are all valid concerns that any new traveler may have. In this article, we will go over 3 pitfalls to avoid when choosing where to travel for the first time.

Not knowing your destination enough.

We understand the allure of diving into the unknown and choosing a location based on what you see online or on social media. You are more than likely seeing only a snippet of one’s experience and not getting the full picture. This is why we recommend that you first do your research.

What does research consist of?

Thoroughly browsing Google or Pinterest for information on your destination. You can also gather ideas from those who’ve done it before. Feeling confident? Send a DM to the influencer or person who visited the city or country of your choice. This way you can get some insight and any other information necessary that will make or break your decision.

Most importantly, the geography of your destination should be taken into account especially if you have any health conditions that could cause any physical, mental, or emotional limitations. Your health and safety are most important and that should be a priority during the decision-making phase of your trip. Be prepared as much as possible so that you won’t be surprised when your flight lands.

Ready to research your destination? Start Here and Here!

Being Indecisive

Being decisive and organized will help curve any possibility of something going wrong. Is there a guarantee that nothing will go wrong? Nope. Yet, preparation brings about confidence. The more confident you feel on your trip, the more risks you can take and the memories you can make.

If it helps, as a first-time solo traveler, you can do anything you want. You won’t have to take into consideration other people’s opinions, therefore you can stick to your gut and intuition and choose what’s best for YOU!

In the case that you’re traveling with people then you guys can collectively come up with a plan that you can stick to. It can be a good idea to assign someone to be the decision-maker if you’re still building up your travel confidence.

Restricting yourself too much

Being flexible and being prepared aren’t mutually exclusive. You can be both. Sometimes, you may find that the best way to travel is to be flexible. When traveling for the first time, it’s important not to restrict yourself too much. You’re learning on the go and that’s fine. How do you think we got to where we are on our travel journey?

Just be open-minded and see what feels right. Wherever your intuition takes you will most likely be a great experience! And, if it’s not, then guess what?? You’ve lived and learned. Next time, you’ll know what to do differently, right?

Lastly, be in the moment and enjoy your first trip. This trip is for you, so be kind to yourself, give yourself grace, and have a bomb-ass time!

Now that you know the 3 unnecessary pitfalls when choosing to travel for the first time, take your time choosing where to travel.

Go at your own pace and don’t be discouraged by the world. Instead, welcome this opportunity to learn what the world has to offer.

As a first-time traveler, adventure is at your fingertips. Make sure you do the correct research on your destination, focus on being decisive to make your trip memorable, and limiting yourself. This is your time!

Also Read: 10 Ways Travel Can Improve Your Self-Confidence

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Do you have a dream of traveling the world? 

Do you feel like it’s impossible because you don’t have enough money or time to travel? 

We’re here to tell you that is not true! You can travel the world for $20 per day. With this guide, we’ll show you how to travel the world for $20 per day. So, keep reading! 

How to save money to travel the world on $20 per day

Track your spending. To do this, simply use an app like Mint or Quicken and input all of the transactions you make each day so that it can calculate how much money is being spent on necessities versus luxuries.  

While “budget” is sometimes an icky and dreadful term, it could be a strategy to save money for your short/long-term goal of traveling the world. Here’s how you can set a budget for yourself.

You might select these two categories- necessities (such as rent/food), which should be prioritized over “wants” such as clothes shopping or going out at night when possible.

For example, try not using credit cards if they are attached to high-interest rates. It is especially a good time to make some changes to your lifestyle in this increasingly uncertain world.

Opt for maximum savings by packing more efficiently 

The next best way to save on traveling the world on $20 per day is determining more efficiently what you should pack. 

If you’re a team carry-on, then you have minimal space for all of your necessities. But, here’s the trick in the pre-planning stage of your trip. Pack everything you want, then take half of that.

This has been the best trip we ever received. Why? Because it allows us to be really intentional about what we want and needs to take. Do we need thirty outfits for a three-day trip? I mean…you might want that much, but it will certainly cost you when you check your luggage. And, as you know, those fees rack up for each pound that your luggage is overweight. 

The best travel destinations for $20 or less a day

Traveling to Southeast Asia or Central America for as little as $20 a day is not a difficult feat. 

Fueled by the recent popularity of these destinations, many airlines have slashed prices and offered travel packages that include airfare, accommodations, meals, tours–all at one low price! 

If you are looking to explore more than just SEAsia or Central America but don’t want to spend too much cash on an expensive destination like Paris or Tokyo then it’s best if you go during off-season time so there will be fewer tourists in town.

How to find cheap flights

You don’t have to break the bank when you’re booking a flight. Although flights can cost thousands of dollars, it doesn’t mean you have to pay that to see the world. 

A round-trip ticket from the US to Europe, for example, can cost more than $1000 on average. But you could save a lot by flying by using the following tips and resources.

1. Consistently search for deals, or rather let those deals come to you! Sign up to communities, such as Scott’s Cheap Flights and/or Dollar Flight Club. To get the best deals, invest in their premium service. 
2. Start your search via Google Flights, which is a search engine for flights around the world with some of the most popular airlines. Some airlines, however, won’t show up in google flight results (i.e. JetBlue and Southwest Airlines). You can set alerts to track price decreases and increases.

Where you should go once you are in a new country

When you arrive at your destination, don’t head straight to the tourist sites. If you are eager to venture out and explore, then consider the less-visited sites. You will find the true culture and experience that you are looking for.

This is an important part of traveling on a budget because it can save money by not paying admission fees to tourist sites. You could wander down some streets or explore parks, which often have fewer visitors but will still give you a great cultural experience without any cost at all.

And, if you’re adamant about visiting well-known sites, then do this instead.

1. Find out if the site allows visitors to enter for free during specific days or times in the week.
2. Pay a one time fee to a tour guide that could help you see multiple sites in a day. 
3. Plan your visit during certain holidays, festivals, or events. Sometimes, to attract tourists, these sites might allow them to enter for free. 

The best ways to get around the world on $20 per day

Flights are the traditional way to get to and from many places around the world, but you might be surprised by other ways to do so as well. We would never recommend Hitchhiking. Instead, use alternate modes of transportation like buses and trains.

It’s often cheaper to buy a bus or train ticket as part of an organized tour, but you can also find the same tickets individually if you’re not in a hurry. And some hostels will offer discounts on buses and trains too!

Tips for saving money while traveling

Consider your financial decisions and actions even while you’re on your new adventure. 

It’s easy to get swept up at the moment and spend money when you’re having fun. But, don’t allow this budget to restrict you from enjoying things outside of your daily budget. 

You can also optimize your budget to give you more freedom. 

Be creative about all of the things that cost money– for example, use dry shampoo instead of buying a new conditioner or bring snacks on flights rather than buy them from a cafe. You’ll have better food and save some cash!

Things to avoid when traveling on a budget

Getting around the world on $20 a day may seem impossible, yet it is doable with lots of patience and confidence. 

And yes! Traveling on a budget can be daunting. But, avoid these things and you will be well on your way to traveling to many places around the world without breaking the bank.

1. Avoid flying everywhere – If you’re spending significant time in-country, then opt for cheaper transportation options, such as the bus or train. 
2. Eating out all the time – You can cook for yourself. Choose lodging that gives you access to a kitchen or offers meals. This would be one less thing to worry about during your trip.
3. Shopping in the well-known tourist areas – Visit the local artisans and markets. You can get more value for your money. Most times, these artifacts or crafts are uniquely made and one-of-a-kind. 

What are your thoughts after reading this article?

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What should you do if your wanderlust gets the best of you and you simple want to travel everwhere? Have a seat and read on!

What’s even more amazing than exploring a new country! Planning out the next adventure, and then the next.

One of the most delightful aspects of traveling is being able to explore new cultures and destinations. It’s amazing how each destination has a different culture, cuisine, landscape, and people which makes it so difficult when deciding where you want to go next!

When this happens though what should you do?

We explore how you can address your “I want to travel everywhere” attitude so that you can finally decide where to go. The excitement of a new journey in front of you can be overwhelming, but it’s also the best feeling ever!

Too eager? Quiz It

It’s about time you started planning your new summer travel adventure! But where should you go? There are so many options out there, and it can be hard to know what you want. That is why we created a quiz for first-time travelers that will help narrow down the perfect destination for your personality type. Trust us, this one decision could make or break your entire trip! Take this quiz now to find out where on Earth is right for YOU!

Additionally, finding the perfect travel destination for yourself can be a daunting process.

You’ll need to decide if you want a relaxing beach vacation or an active city break with lots of sightseeing—or something else entirely.

This is why quizzing yourself can give you an insight into how much time and money you are willing to spend, what kind of culture you want to experience, and how adventurous/adventurous you want to be.

Always Consider Your Personality

Your personality plays a huge part in the decision-making process of choosing the right destination. Every traveler is different so it’s important to consider all factors before booking that ticket!

You have to think about things. For example, different food, weather and how many people that might be too much or not enough.

Sit down with a map or list of possible destinations. Then, evaluate where might be an ideal fit based on personal preferences. And, if you’re traveling with the group, then you’ll need to take everyone’s preferences into consideration. This is why we are team solo over here!.

Once you’ve narrowed down potential locations, take some time to do research by reading articles online and sifting through our travel planning guide. Find a destination that encompasses what your want AND need.

Embrace Your Uncertainty

Instead of allowing your uncertainty to get the best of your desires and dream, get out a pen and paper or open up the notes app on your phone.

Think about the cultures, people, and places you want to experience.

There is so much beauty waiting for you out there! The sights and views from every destination await; they’re just waiting for an adventurous traveler like you to come to explore them!

Get over the anxiousness of your next trip and just relax in the present moment. You will eventually get to every country, state, and land. It takes time and patience.

You hold the tickets and the key to unlocking the doors of your vacation.

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You don’t have to let the pandemic ruin your travel plans. Although you may not be too comfortable packing yourself into an airplane just yet, a road trip is another story. Keep reading for insight on how to make your holiday trips the very best they can be, no flight required. 

Road-Trip Ready

Before you begin your journey, take the time to ensure that your vehicle is ready. This should include everything from having a quick tuneup and tire alignment to adding new car mats in an easy-to-clean material to keep sand, salt, and other gunk out of your vehicle. Other accessories to consider are a GPS unit and trunk organizer. Before you purchase any additions for your trip, use review websites to research gear and compare prices.

Next, plan your trip so that you can avoid as many stops as possible. When you do hit the road, eat at drive-throughs or curbside pick-up restaurants instead of in-person dining. Better yet, grab a cooler and pack your own food. Keep sanitizing wipes handy so that you can clean gas pump handles when you have to stop for fuel. Cedars-Sinai further suggests paying at the pump and avoiding touching your face at the gas station.

Living Like A Local

If you’re not ready to hit the road, you can still enjoy a getaway without leaving your own home town. Start by checking out some local attractions that are a bit off the beaten path. Dream Destinations recommends the Miami Aqua Yacht Charter Cruises, Miami Beach Parasailing, and Tarpoon Dive Center. Each of these offers personalized service and prioritizes customer health and safety. Do make a point to call ahead to ensure they are open and operational at the time of your visit.

You can also plan an overnight adventure by staying at a local vacation rental. Whether you want to be near the Hollywood Beach Boardwalk or just hang tight to an area where you can explore Miami on foot, there are plenty of rentals available. Ask your rental agency about their cleaning protocols in response to the COVID-19 crisis.

Additional COVID Considerations:

• If you plan to visit medically frail or elderly relatives, self-isolate for two weeks before you hit the road. This means you should not leave your home. Order your groceries online, work remotely, and do not allow non-cohabiting friends or family into your home.

• Occasionally roll down your vehicle’s windows to allow air to circulate. If you or one of your passengers is ill, opening the windows can significantly reduce the risk of transmission. 

• Consider testing in the days before your trip. Even if you are not visiting friends or family, having a negative result is one of the best ways to ensure you do not inadvertently spread the virus. And, depending on where you plan to travel, you may be required to present a negative test result anyway.

• Hand sanitizer, tissues, and sanitary wipes should be a staple of your travel pack and available at all times.

At some point, we have to begin living our lives again. When that includes travel, you’ll have to adapt. Hopefully, the recently-approved vaccine will begin to have a positive impact, and life can go back to normal soon. Until then, you do not have to resolve to stay at home. Adventure is out there, and there are plenty of ways to find it without putting yourself or your family at risk.

Bio: Amy Collett is the creator of Bizwell.org, a website that helps professionals and entrepreneurs build and strengthen their personal brand.

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So you think you’re not justified in taking a vacation and step away from your business or job because you’re self-employed? 

You’re reluctant to ask your boss?

You’re fearful of losing your job?

You think it’s not the right time.

Understandably, these reasons might keep you from taking a vacation this summer, but it shouldn’t be the dealbreaker. 

Here are reasons why you could make a bold and exciting decision to take a vacation this summer and the five great reasons why you should. 

Physical down time

You work hard to grow and maintain your business. Trying to be superhuman will certainly take its toll if you allow it to. Give your body a break by taking in some R&R. 

Mental down time

Your days are filled with busy, sometimes even hectic, day-to-day activities related to your business. If you don’t allow yourself to get away from it once in a while, your peace of mind and general well-being will most definitely suffer. Get out and play. Your mind will thank you! 

Spend time with loved ones

Your family and friends see you working, working, working, sometimes rarely coming up for air. Both you and they will appreciate spending some quality time together. 

See the world (or your own backyard)

The important thing is to do something you enjoy, whether it’s traveling or, if that’s not your cup of tea or you don’t have the budget for it, spend time at home. If you also work out of your home, this could be challenging. The key is to stay out of your office during your vacation time. Try getting creative with this. Make your office “off limits” by closing the door and placing a sign on it. Do whatever it takes to keep your mind off working. How about a hobby or a day trip to the beach? Think of what you can do within your budget that’s fun. Or do nothing at all! 

You have a life

Although this one is a no-brainer, it surprises me how many small business owners don’t feel as if they deserve time off. There is too much to do, and not enough hours in the day to get it all done. Well, I’ve got news for you. It’s always going to feel that way! Only you have the power to allow yourself time off. Even if you prefer only to take a day here and a day there instead of a week-long (or longer) vacation each year, that’s a whole lot better than never taking time off. Trust me, you’ll feel better about yourself and your work if you take regular vacation time. You’ll be healthier, too!

Now that you know why you could make a bold and exciting decision to take a vacation this summer, you can begin to:

• Change your scenery 
• Spend time alone, or with friends and family
• Visit any of your bucket list destinations
• Explore more of your country
• Reconnect with others who’ve lost touch with

Tools & Resources:

• US Trip Planning: Covid-19 Updates
• International Travel COVID-19 Updates

The post To Make A Bold & Exciting Decision To Take A Vacation This Summer Season & Here’s Why appeared first on Travepreneur.

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we have interviewed our favorite Wellness and Self-care Expert, Eileen Arugu. If you recall, she dropped gems during the Big Leap Summit during her session, “Be Full of Yourself.” And we are ready to “be full ourselves” this year and beyond. Are you?? Check out Eileen’s story below.

Tell us: “Who is Eileen?” And what has been your journey?

My name, Eileen, literally means light. Growing up, I used to despise my name because I thought it made me seem older. As I’ve matured, I’ve learned to embrace the meaning of my name and have made it my personal mantra for dealing with life’s ups and downs. 

By asking myself “what is this situation trying to show me?” and “how can I make light of this moment?”, I’ve gained much clarity and peace about situations beyond my control. 

My journey has been filled with teachable moments and golden gems of wisdom passed down from incredible women. My biggest challenges have stemmed from not honoring God’s timing for my life and wanting to be more like others instead of leaning into more of my true self. 

My biggest achievements happened when I stopped worrying about the “what ifs”, acknowledged the fear, and showed up anyway. 

So speaking of teachable moments, what event or moment occurred that led you towards your passion? 

Almost failing out of college led me towards my passion. 

During my freshman year, I experienced a lot of challenges. I was performing horribly in my pre-med classes, while dealing with the tragic passing of one of my roommates. 

Life was unbelievably difficult then. I had no idea what self-care was at the time, but I practiced it as a form of survival. 

When I was ultimately dismissed from my college for poor academic performance, I had to make a decision on whether I would leave school for good or appeal the decision. I decided to appeal. 

During the appeal process, I leaned into prayer and journaling. Because I didn’t tell any of my friends that I was kicked out of school, I had to be creative with my time while everyone was attending classes. 

I spent more time in the gym of my apartment complex, started eating healthier, and practicing gratitude for the little things. Ultimately when I was admitted back into school, I gained a fresh perspective on self-healing and the power of focusing on the positive.

Wow, thank you for sharing your story. That must’ve been incredibly difficult to go through. I’m happy that you found ways to heal and grow from this experience. Now, let’s fast-forward…what inspired you to start Real Women on the Rise (RWOTR)? What are your goals?

I co-founded Real Women on the Rise with my friend, Helen Orukotan, as a podcast for millennial women who were interested in topics discussing entrepreneurship, manifestation, and a minimalist lifestyle. 

The podcast idea sort of morphed into a wellness event planning service when we hosted our first vision board party in November 2019. 

Being able to witness our very own community form was inspirational. Instead of recording weekly podcasts for our tribe of women, we decided it would be better to host self-care events in person and catch up in a girl talk fashion (pre-COVID). 

One of my goals for our collective is to expand our community and create a network of resourceful women willing to help each other achieve personal goals. 

Following up with members after our first vision board party was magical because we were able to learn in real-time of all the visions that came true following the event. So many of our friends went on to launch their businesses, start their Youtube channels, earn more money in their respective fields, and become new wives and moms. 

Yasss! That’s amazing. I love that you cultivated your initial idea into a self-care and wellness event planning service. Community is so important. What do you hope to accomplish with RWOTR? 

I hope to encourage more people to take care of themselves. Self-care is not always picturesque settings and unlimited spa days. 

Sometimes it’s crying after a long day of stressful events or communicating why you don’t feel like yourself to a loved one. I hope more people begin valuing the inner work that leads to fulfillment just as much as we value our exterior selves. 

You mentioned fulfillment. Travel is one way people feel fulfilled. And, just to add travel into this conversation, what do you see happening for travelers because of this resource? 

I hope to see travelers being more present as a result of this resource and using their time abroad to do more meaningful work in the communities they visit. 

And, why is it important for travelers to engage in self-care activities? Or, share the importance of self-care and why travel is one activity they can engage in to take care of themselves?

Self-care is important because it serves as a way to stay connected and re-align with activities and environment that promote peace and joy. 

Self-care is also an outlet for stressful events and how they can leave lingering tension in the body. I love travel as a form of self-care because it is one activity that literally encourages you to move out of your comfort zone. 

There’s a quote that says “you cannot heal in the same environment that made you sick.” When I think of travel, I think of a chance to get away and recharge with culture and seeing beyond the routine. 

Personally, traveling has made me more adaptable and inspired me to dream bigger because goals become more tangible with vision. 

You are a seasoned traveler, what would you recommend travelers do to prepare before they embark on their first trip (or first trip post-COVID) to anywhere around the world?

I would recommend learning a few common words in the native language of the country they are visiting, greetings included. Words are powerful, and taking the initiative to learn a new language is such a dope way to connect with people. 

We are coming to the end of the interview, we would love to know what is a quote you live by and how has it played out in your life now?

“Never give up, for that is just the place and time that the tide will turn.” – Harriet Beecher Stowe

I love this quote so much. It has taught me a lot about resilience, and trusting the timing of my life. I can be very critical of myself, especially when it comes to where I think I should be in life. 

When it starts getting tough, I remember this quote and my mood begins to shift. I remember how my current place is laying the foundation for where I will be in the future and I am reminded to enjoy where I am right at this moment. 

Most of those challenging moments seem so insignificant now when I see how things have eventually worked out. 

If there is anything else you feel is important to include, please include it. 

Thank you for this incredible opportunity, Adriana. I feel so blessed and honored to share my voice on your platform. The fact that I get to share my views on a black and woman-owned platform is a slight flex and privilege. Thank you. 

Please include your social media handle/s, website, email, etc where a reader can reach you.

I can be found on @realwomenontherise and @selfcaringblackgirl on Instagram, @scblackgirl on Twitter, @selfcaringblackgirl on Pinterest, and @eileenarugu on Clubhouse. 

The post How Eileen Arugu Helps Real Women in their Wellness and Self-Care Goals appeared first on Travepreneur.

Oh, what a feeling it is to travel to every place possible on the planet. Or at least dream about it in a pandemic world.

It’s very easy to fall into the “I want to travel everywhere” trance because the world is such a beautiful place and you deserve to see it. And, as you imagine prancing over the different types of soil and breathing in the scent of the outdoor air, remember that there’s a simple solution to your desire to traveling everywhere. Especially if you can’t make up your mind about where to start.

A passport and a deep determination will drive anyone to the edge of every border, but here’s how to find a simple solution to “I want to travel everywhere” without feeling overwhelmed about choosing where to go first (second, third…you get the picture).

Is This You?

Can you remember the first flight you ever took; the feeling of sitting in your seat and then bracing yourself as the plane lifted off? Of course, you can.

I’m sure you also remember returning from your destination, and the first thing on your mind even before you stepped foot on your return flight home is that place you wanted to explore next.

When the flight touches down and you arrive home, you powered up your laptop or pulled out your phone and started to search for the next place in mind. Isn’t It always a choice between somewhere hot, beautiful, and tropical and a place with acceptable weather that holds the history and historic landmarks? Or a choice between a far-off land on a continent you’ve yet to visit and an Instagram-worthy adventure?

The decisions…

Or, if you’re an aspiring or new traveler, are you dreaming about finally visiting a destination on your bucket list?

While you’re over the moon, sun, and the additional 9 planets (Yes, I’m including Pluto lol) and exhilarated that you’re finally taking a leap to see the world, you also know the overwhelm of actually choosing where to go. You will find a simple solution to your eagerness to travel everywhere. So, take all that energy and use it for something productive like narrowing down your traveling bucket list before you just start a general search without any direction.

Here’s how to do that!

Travel = You

The simple solution is to consider your personality and your likes and dislikes. There is always a place you have wanted to see and that should always be your first choice when deciding where to go. Your personality plays a huge part in the decision-making process of choosing the right destination. Your choice should always suit you.

Note: You also want to see which destinations are “open” before setting your heart on a particular place. Read Here for More.

Only you will know what temperatures, food, and people you want for your self-discovery. Sit down and figure out the places are that best suit you and do all the research possible on the destination before booking your ticket. You may want to talk to some people that have traveled there before and take into account their experiences.

The more information you gain on the specific destination you will know if it is right for you. Write down your likes and dislikes, bounce some ideas off of your peers and think about the history that you want to explore. Redirect all of that energy of uncertainty and put it towards actually making a list of every destination that you have ever wanted to see.

Think about the cultures that you want to experience and the beautiful locals waiting to sell you their creations. Imagine the sights and the views that you want to share on social media with your friends and family.

But most of all think about the experiences that you will live to tell and can dream about.

Get over the anxiousness of your next trip and just relax in the present moment. There should be no rush because as we learned this past year there’s no better time than the present. Soak it all up and live in the moment. You hold the tickets and the key to unlocking the doors of your vacation.

You will eventually get to visit your most desired country, state, and land foreign to you when you adopt a you first approach.

Remember you are the solution to where your destiny will lead you.

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Something I’ve become more and more passionate about over the last two years is helping travelers overcome their doubts and fears by boosting their travel confidence and preparation. You see, over ten years ago, I set out to see the world, but what did I do when I’d never been on a plane or left my home state before? I was new-new to travel and it was quite scary. 

And through that journey, I’ve found that I love helping new and aspiring travelers see the world, prepared and confident, one trip at a time. That is providing them with a community of resources and tools for them to venture out in the world unapologetically, fearlessly, and humbly.

That’s why I’m so excited to bring this free 4-day event to you!

You can learn absolutely everything you’ve ever want to know about the summit over here, but as a quick overview:

• The summit will run from February 18 through 21, 2021.
• Each day will be packed with amazing speakers who are ready to help you overcome your fears, boost your confidence, help you with a travel plan, and more!
• We’ve got a pop-up Facebook group where you’ll find accountability buddies, connect with other new and aspiring travelers, ask the speakers questions, and being a resource where you can express needs and inquiries
• You can attend the summit absolutely free, but you can choose to grab the FIRST CLASS PASS at any time. The FIRST CLASS PASS will give you an all-access pass to the summit (meaning you get all the videos for life), which includes All Session Replays (Video & Audio); Co-working sessions with Adriana and Guest Speakers for you to build your travel plan; EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS AND GIVEAWAYS from Travepreneur, Sponsors and Guest speakers; 80% discount on Big Leap Travel Membership for one year ($931 Savings); and your Big Leap Travel Toolkit

The FIRST CLASS PASS is currently being offered at a special price, and it will disappear for good once the summit is over, so start thinking about it now!

Are you excited?! (I sure am!)

Head over to the website to learn more and grab your free ticket. More information will be sent straight to your inbox afterward. 

I can’t wait to kick this thing off!

GET YOUR FREE TICKET!

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I Am Black History…

Black history is world history and the globe is traced with the roots, heritage, and culture of a people group oftentimes left out of textbooks, movies, and conversations. 

This is the space created for travelers to add their travel moments while searching, embracing, and answering the question: what it means to be a black traveler? 

And, why it matters to their career, writing, travels, business, and life. 

Name a place you have visited that is your favorite so far.

This is so hard. Haiti and South Africa tie for the same reasons but different feelings. They both mean home, love, and family. But I feel totally different in both spaces.

Name a place that is on your bucket list.

Nigeria!

How did you use your voice or background to heighten your travel experience? What do you enjoy most about traveling?

When I was in South Africa, people would start speaking to me in their language and assume I was a native. So many things reminded me of Haiti and Little Haiti, Miami. 

The diaspora is real! I truly believe no matter where I go if black people are the majority, I am connected in some way! We are not monolithic but we are a universal community. I enjoy getting to know people and their stories, music, and food!

For first-time travelers, what advice would you give them?

There’s a saying, “one has two ears and 1 mouth, what should one do more of?” Just listen and process. Don’t try to fix, impose, and let the fear go.

More Questions? Connect with Nelda on Twitter or Instagram!

If you are interested in being added to the I Am Black History collection, please complete the google form and submit your photo to travepreneur@gmail.com. (Note: Approval is required for your submission). Click here for Frequently Asked Questions.

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