5 Life Changing Moments That Inspired Travelling

Whether it’s one trip or a new lifestyle entirely, travelling is an experience that teaches and changes a person. What is it that makes them take the plunge and make those journeys? These five people all had different catalysts for beginning their adventures.

Ying Tey

Ying’s mother died when she was just 18 years old, leaving her with not only grief, but a sense of urgency to start really living. It reminded her, she said, “almost mockingly, that everyone is stamped with an expiration date.” She knew that her corporate career was not to be, packed up for good and left Malaysia, travelling for eight years. After a stationary stint as a Senior Copywriter in Singapore she’s on the road again, keeping us updated in her blog www.tinywanderer.com

Liz Carlson

Liz, from Washington DC, taught English in Spain for a few years after graduating, eventually returning home to fulfil the role she thought she really should be fulfilling. But Spain had gotten to her; she’d fallen hook, line and sinker for the thrill of travel. A cubicle in an office nine-to-five wasn’t going to cut it. She was growing unhappy so she took action. After deciding to pursue writing she saved, quit her job and hit the road. And boy she’s seen a few sights since! Check out her adventures here www.youngadventuress.com

Yasmine Mustafa

At the age of 8, Yasmine and her family immigrated from Kuwait during Operation Desert Storm. Caught in the United State’s immigration system she worked under the table jobs before starting her own tech company and only achieved citizenship aged 31. After 22 years of being restricted by circumstances she couldn’t control she wanted to experience the freedom of travel so she booked a six month trip around South America.

Robert Schrader

Robert wanted to see the world, but could neither afford to nor build up the confidence to. In 2009 the American economic apocalypse hit and, rather than stay and become a victim, he fled to China. Seven years later and he now makes a living travelling the world, via his blog Leave Your Daily Hell. Check it out for inspiration and information on taking the leap. www.leaveyourdailyhell.com

Megan Smith

If there’s ever something that will push you towards a big change, it’s a break-up. Megan’s gave her the idea to shake off the life and career she didn’t want. She saved for a year then set off on her exploration of the world and herself. Hear more about her adventures on her website. www.meganotravels.com

By Amy Leonard