About

What is the motivation behind ‘travel life’? In summary, because life is short. I dream of touring the world more than climbing a corporate career ladder. To see the world with my own eyes while I have the energy to do so. To not only visit iconic tourist sites, but also smaller towns and go off the beaten track. I want to really broaden my horizons and develop a global perspective. Adapting to new cultures and seeing new scenery every day is an adventure.

Another way to get that sense of adventure is from 'no plan' travel! Imagine: Packing a backpack with a sleeping bag and other necessities, and just setting out. I've camped in all sorts of places - Islands, mountains, beaches, forests - and faced all kinds of weather. Without a structured plan, unexpected things happen, and those unexpected things can be the most amazing. Sometimes there were tough days, but the memories are fun to look back on! What is the craziest place you ever camped?

Hitchhiking is the deep end of 'no plan' travel. Flexible schedule? Flexible destination? Then hitchhiking is perfect! Many of my the travel experiences can start from hitchhiking - discovering hidden beauty spots, sightseeing tours from friendly drivers, and insightful conversations with people you might otherwise never speak to. For example, I encountered Japanese strawberry farmers, Korean fishermen, Tibetan monks, and everyday people from diverse backgrounds. Hitchhiking is challenging, but infinitely rewarding! I don’t recommend everyone should try it, but it can be a great way of exploring.

Couchsurfing can provide much needed rest and sanctuary along the way. A roof, a bed, a shower - luxury! These things are often taken for Granted, but Couchsurfing is a blessing for those on the road. Not to mention, staying at the home of a local person can form unique connections and lifelong friendships. How great is it that you can visit a foreign country for the first time and being able to find open minded people to explore with.

Take the scenic route. What does that mean? It’s about slow travel to connect more deeply with each destination. Like through learning the local language and spending time with people in the community. Of course, couchsurfing and hitchhiking really help with these goals!

Alternative Lifestyle - Vanlife and tiny house living. In the long term, I dream of travelling and/or living in a campervan. And One day, I am determined to create and live in my own tiny house. Imagine designing, building and living in a house that is customised to what you need. I’m excited to join the movement of low impact and sustainable housing which provides greater freedom, plus the ability to change locations freely.

Sustainable diet - I haven't eaten meat for more than 10 years. A big motivation behind that now is climate change. I hope to see a future where the economy and society does not depend on intensive animal farming, using up a lot of land and resources. So I don’t want to contribute to the demand for the exploitation of animals and deforestation. Another factor is low-waste by avoiding plastic packaging as much as possible. I know that recycling is not as effective as the government would like us to believe. Someday, I’d like to be a part of a circular economy! Have you noticed any changes in the climate in your country?

On a lighter note, staying active is another priority of mine! And whilst travelling, opportunities arise to get engaged with different sports and activities. In India, Yoga was a great way to stretch, exercise and relax for both physical and mental exercise. I really enjoyed the experience of yoga retreats!

In Korea, I took the chance to practice Taekwondo 태권도. I totally immersed myself in the sport and trained every day. Taekwondo is great for stress release and building up fitness. Not to mention that joining sports clubs are a great way to meet people!

Low budget life - I mention this last as, although it is a high priority, it still comes below hitchhiking, couchsurfing, camping, cycling, downsizing, living tiny, etc. Wherever I go solo travelling, I try to live on about £5 a day. I can walk and camp, or sometimes hitchhike or couchsurf when I need to. Lower expenses demand less need for income. More freedom.

Summary - I try to look at life from a bird's eye perspective whilst aiming to prioritise things that are actually important to me and live a fulfilling life that I won't regret. Gaining skills and experience from the various paths I take along the way, I feel I am becoming a well rounded person with so many adventure tales to tell. These tales I hope to share here on this site, so if you would like to get some top tips for travelling on a low budget or read about experiences in different countries, just flick around this site! So...

Thanks for visiting!