With a passion and purpose for travel, cultural exposure towards self-growth, and a lifetime love for people- Priscilla is ready to fly. A new city or country is fuel that never runs empty. It’s not Trip advisor restaurants, the best hotels or bookmarked sights-it’s the adventure within a person that can make you question, analyze, or better understand the humanity within cultures.
While it’s great having that occasional trip with a friend or the destination wedding trip, it’s not a great standard of what an authentic cultural experience should look like. It doesn’t mean that everyone needs to go buy a backpack and get on the move. Everyone has their own preference and pace of travel. It may take time to achieve solo travel or maybe one never will and that’s okay. BUT know travel with family, co-workers, or a few friends most likely will not be as AWESOME as traveling alone. Why? You are Priscilla guaranteed to meet a higher number of people if you open up your mind and heart to learning about others. Who? The man selling mangoes on the beach. The receptionist at your hotel. The tour guide. These people are not just tools for service rather they are tools for learning. Acknowledge them first. Smile. Ask a question Begin cultural Exchange Being a therapist and a traveler, it may be natural for me to listen, ask questions, teach English words, be funny, entertaining, and spend intimate time with family. Although, I recognize it can be intimidating for others and that is OK! Just remember the great news that countries(locals)are eager for to learn about YOU and learn from YOU. Rather than just ask them directions, they would like to know about your education, your travels, and most commonly-your family. They can invite you to see their family, show you a few nice sights in town, share some homemade food, or just share a piece of their story-a piece of their culture. It’s not expected, but it’s just an expression of how humble, kind, and generous people can be. With this acknowledgement, you are rewarding them and rewarding yourself with a positive feeling from the culture. And that interpersonal interaction gives you a boost of confidence and esteem in travel. It’s hard speaking with strangers-people who might be labeled negatively. People who may not be given a fair chance at life. Locals who are d by travelers because they may never get a chance to leave their country and it’s YOU who is their outlet to learn about it all. With all the knowledge we have built up, its meant to be shared. There is a whole country of locals trying to help you. There is a city that is calling your name to get lost on the streets and meet all kinds of people. It’s my true belief and passion to educate that authentic experiences can come from breaking boundaries and facing fears. Our fears can hinder us from the many adventure sports, big hikes, going outside after dark, and especially the fear of an unknown person. Disregard Stigma Against Third World Countries and Those Foreign from your Own Travel Outside the Travel Industry Box If you are seeing your own culture the majority of you trip- reschedule for a new one! Live You Travel Life As you Like, but ALWAYS give local people a fighting chance! |
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