If you did not already know it, I love traveling. Whether by plane, car, motorcycle, ferry…whatever! In addition to photography, traveling is taking up more and more space in my life. That’s why I’d like to dedicate a post here talking about traveling. I’m just grateful to have found two hobbies that I am super passionate about.
Traveling on the road
No matter whether it’s on 2 or 3 wheels, no matter if motorcycle or car. Road trips are and have always been my favorite way to travel. This feeling you have when traveling alone or with friends. When you turn on the karaoke machine aka cellphone and you’re all just singing loudly. I’ve been used to long (very long) car rides as a small child. For 20 years we have been driving 18 hours from Germany to southern Italy to visit my Italian grandparents. It is always a long journey but every time an equally unique experience. Sometimes long trips are just worth it. Whether with family or friends whether in the car or on a motorcycle.
There is nothing better than having the freedom to go wherever you want and whenever you want. You will get to know the landscape from a unique perspective. Feel the wind on your skin and smell the salt water in the air. In these moments there’s only one thing I want to do: enjoy! While roadtripping I always end up realizing how privileged I am. To have the opportunity to explore the world with well-developed roads that in most cases still leave room for nature.
One of my big dreams is to buy a van, renovate it and just start driving. When the time comes, you will be the first with whom I share this journey. Of course I have something ready for the perfect musical accompaniment for your next road trip! Check out this Spotify playlist!
Hitch-hiking
When I talk to people about hitch-hiking, they often say, “What? That may have been possible in the past, but today … unimaginable and far too dangerous!” Not in my opinion. No matter what it is, what was possible in the past, can be done today, you just have to have faith and and approach the matter with a certain amount of respect. In December 2016, I spent two weeks in the Philippines with two Spanish friends whom I know from my semester abroad in Bangkok. Roadtrips and absolute low budget-travel included! We were hitch-hiking as well, and we were successful the first time! After that we weren’t so lucky anymore but still we had the time of our lives – and I do not want to miss it.
Music
Music means a lot to me. Especially when I am traveling alone and listen to music, which happens more often, I manage to relax and to emotionalize moments. Every time I sit at a great viewpoint or in front of an impressive landscape, I listen to Let’s Hurt Tonight by One Republic. I do not know why but this song allows me to relax and focus on the here and now in a way only that song can. My favorite Headphones to listen to music!
But not only music through my headphones enriches my travels immensely. Also the local musicians on the streets and concerts that I end up being at sometimes, gives the city the certain flair and gives you the opportunity to dive deep into the of the country you are visiting. Again, I like to take the time and sit down on a bench or a staircase and listen to the sounds of the city and the music. These moments will stay in my head for a long time.
To sum it all up
Traveling can, when you get involved in different cultures, broaden your horizons and open up your mind to new concepts and ways of thinking. Traveling has also opened my eyes and taught me to strive for more than the existence as a small cogwheel of a large machinery. Think about the times, when man and nature lived in harmony with each other and drive yourself exactly in that direction when you’re traveling. Respect nature and nature will respect you. You’ll see that it’s worth it.
