All you need for adventure is an open mind. If you have the accessibility and even the remotest desire to travel, take it!
For students in full time education the passion to travel often begins to feel futile as dreams to see the world feel farther and farther away. But in reality, travel can begin wherever you are, right then and there; it’s about adventure and experience – you don’t have to trek halfway across the world to do it! So don’t let unwanted doubts talk yourself out of life-changing experiences which aren’t as exclusive as they may sound.
Travel from home
There’s plenty you can do from your seat to maintain the hopes of possibility, and to not feel so anchored by education. Even something as simple as cooking can help fuel that eagerness for discovery! Explore cultures through food – there are plenty of free recipes online which can send your tastebuds to another continent right then and there.
If you’re into reading or want to get into it, that’s another avenue into the opportunities available to you. Travel guides and even motivational books could give you that push to make a dream happen. Books like Microadventures, by Alastair Humphreys, really emphasise the accessibility of travel and adventure in your local area.
Inspiration on screen
Classic documentaries like Planet Earth by David Attenborough can show you the wonders of the green side of Earth. It makes you realise how much is out there yet to be seen by your own eyes. The show Race Across the World follows teams racing across countries; granted, a show like this is structured and less independent, but nevertheless, I personally have never been more inspired to travel by tv. What’s even more encouraging is that they’re limited to a budget and it’s often people with no travelling experience beforehand, something students can relate to, and I really think it makes where and how you can begin your own travels feel more realistic.
Making dreams real
Your next adventure doesn’t have to be big, bold, or far away, it just has to begin. Travel is about the spirit of adventure and deep down all of us have it somewhere. Through the university there are some incredible opportunities available, society Blue Tits offers wild swimming trips, the RAG society organises a hitch-hike to Paris race! There’s even a Kilimanjaro expedition for charity next year. Step outside of your comfort zone – your future self will thank you!
Image by Alen Karso on Unsplash.