I have always had a travel bug and a desire to explore anything and everything. I think a lot of that comes from my childhood. I did not grow up with a lot of money, and I’ve worked hard for everything I have. Between working multiple jobs, running a small business, and trying to make time for myself, I learned early on how to be resourceful. I watched my family make the best out of difficult situations. There were times when resources were less available, things that people take advantage of, but we always had a roof over our heads and found a way to get through it together.
Those experiences shaped the way I travel today. When I applied to study at a University in England, I honestly did not think I would get in. I definitely did not know if I could afford it. What I did know was that it was something I wanted, so I was going to find a way to make it happen.
My idea of sustainable travel is simple: slow down, use less, and experience more. I am the type of person who would rather stay in a small hostel, camp on a beach, or bike across a city than spend my trip in taxis or tourist buses. I cannot even begin to tell you how many hundreds of thousands of steps I have taken while travelling because I would rather walk than figure out a train schedule or call a ride. While that started as a way to save money, it has become one of my favourite ways to travel. Walking and cycling allow me to see places more authentically, connect with local communities, and reduce my environmental impact at the same time.
Many of the choices I make while travelling align with the values promoted by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. By choosing active transportation, supporting local businesses, and travelling with a smaller environmental footprint, I try to contribute positively to both the communities I visit and the environment. My goal is to travel in a way that is thoughtful, respectful, and sustainable—not because I have to, but because it allows me to experience places more authentically.
As I continue my international experiences, I hope to show that meaningful travel does not have to come at the expense of the environment. In fact, I have found that the most memorable experiences often come from travelling more simply, more intentionally, and with greater respect for the people and places that make those experiences possible.
