We are truly blessed to live in a time where there are so many options to get away, to dive in, experience a new culture, visit a foreign country, and meet new people.  

Every time we leave our every-day environment, even for just a weekend get-away to the next town over, we come back changed, different, expanded. 

Travel gives us an opportunity to go out into the world, receive new information through a new experience, and bring that piece of information back to integrate into our daily lives.

In this way we can affect change not only in our own lives, but in the lives of the people around us.

Whether you’re looking for a rigorous trek through the wilderness or a relaxing retreat at a world class spa, there are trips for it all.

So which trip is right for you?  It’s a decision that you don’t want to rush.  Grab a cup of tea and a journal and settle in for a Mindful Trip Guide.

A Guide: 4 Steps to Mindfully Choose The Right Trip For You

Step 1: What is your intention for going on a trip?

Take some time to think about why you want to go on a trip.  Maybe even spend some time journaling about this question.

Are you wanting some rest and relaxation away from everyone?  A getaway with friends? A trip that will push you physically? 

Would you like to explore a new culture, food, way of living?  Connect deeply with a group of people? Spend time in a silent meditation retreat?

There are many reasons why people choose to go on trip and getting clear on why you want to go is the most important step.

Take a moment to close your eyes and go to the place in your mind and/or body where the “travel itch” began.  What made you first think about going on trip and why?

Pro Tip: Once you’ve picked your trip and are ready to go, return to your reflection on this very first step so you remember your intention before jetting off into the wild!

Step 2: Visualize a day on the trip

Before we dive into logistics, visualizing your ideal day on trip can be a powerful tool to get clear on the rest of the details of your planning.

Close your eyes and settle in with a few deep breaths.

Call to mind your intentions set above and begin to imagine your ideal trip in a five sense reality.  Where are you?  What are you doing?  What are you tasting, smelling, hearing?

Spend some time allowing this reality to come to life in your mind as vibrantly as you can.

Be aware of the things that stuck out to you first, as these might be a clue to what is most important as you plan your trip.

Maybe the image of an ocean or beach came to mind right away.  Or maybe an image of you connecting deeply with others.  This insight will be helpful when navigating all the trip options.

It might even be helpful to journal your insights as you move into the next steps.

Step 3: Consider the logistics.

The next step includes all the logistics.  At each stage of the logistics process, pause to check in with yourself to see if it feels aligned with the insights you gained from your first two steps.  With all the options out there it's easy to get carried away into a trip option that is far from what your original intentions were.

Below are some logistics to consider:

• Budget

• Location

• Length of trip

• What season is ideal

• Alone or with others

• Structured with daily activities or open for exploration

Get clear on which of these above are your top priorities.  Perhaps a day or two extra does not make much of a difference, but the location is a non-negotiable.

Keep your top priorities in mind as you search and know where you’re willing to compromise and where you’re not.

Pro Tip: Not finding the perfect tri[?  Root Adventures can help you design a private trip or even your own small group trip!

Step 4: Connect with the tour leader.

Last but not least, consider the teacher, guide, or company hosting the trip.  Each tour leader runs their trips in very different ways with different styles and different feels.  

Finding a tour leader that you connect with is important - you’ll be spending a lot of time with them!

Take some time to learn about the tour leader and reach out and ask additional questions as needed.  Most tour leaders are thrilled to connect with participants as well as potential participants and want to know more about you too!

Reading through the detailed itinerary can be incredibly helpful as well to get a feel for the trip, the leader, and the overall intention of the trip.

Pro Tip: Most trips will have some sort of call or meeting before the trip to connect with the tour leaders as well as other participants.  If you don’t see this advertised, send an email and ask if it's something that they do!

Following this mindful process will bring lots of insight as to why you want to travel and will help you find the best experience for you.  

If you’re interested in Mindful Travel, then you’ve come to the right place!  Root Adventures is all about Mindful Travel.  Check out our trips here!