Best Wilderness Travel Destinations (and How They Make You a Better Person)
Today, travel is more than just getting a cheap deal to spend 10 days lying on the beach before we have to go back to work for the rest of the year. Today, travel has the potential to be mindful, and it has the potential to change us, as well as the world. Since it is more available than ever, considerably more people have the chance to see places they never thought they could, which, in itself, can be an experience of a lifetime. However, the way in which these experiences can make us better people go far beyond having a few pictures to look back upon in a few years’ time. They can genuinely change the way we think and act, and in the grand scheme of things, this can be a step towards a better future. Here are a few destinations that are bound to produce this effect if you approach them with an open heart and an open mind.
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Borneo
A large island in Southeast Asia, Borneo is an incredible wilderness destination amongst the best Asia destinations that is perhaps best known for its untamed rainforests and the inhabitants of those rainforests – orangutans. Animal lovers will not want to miss out on meeting these majestic creatures which are, unfortunately, endangered. Deforestation is a major threat to their habitats, and seeing all of this up close will make you think differently about the preservation of wilderness areas for sure. There are a number of orangutan rehabilitation centers all over Borneo where you can get acquainted with these animals and even help with a little contribution.
Antarctica
While this might not be the go-to destination for everyone, experiencing vast Antarctica in person is nothing short of a life-changing moment. This harsh and distant land where it’s hard to believe any sort of wildlife could thrive can teach you not only about the extreme survival skills of the animals inhabiting these barren lands but it can also show you a completely different side of the world. Last but not least, this will open your eyes to the immense importance of doing everything we can to slow down climate change as much as possible, to preserve these icy lands and all the animals living there, such as Emperor penguins and orcas.
Tasmania
There’s no doubt that the simple act of spending time in nature already brings you closer to Mother Nature and helps you reconnect with your true roots. Tasmania is a perfect place to do so as this island state in Australia is a land full of untouched beauty, with national parks and incredible views wherever you go. It is great for active travelers who enjoy fishing in Tasmania and for those who don’t shy away from exploring nature through hiking. Hiking is not only a mindful activity but one that will also build your resilience and fitness. Seeking out all the beauties of the Freycinet Peninsula, for example, is perhaps the best way of working on both your body and mind.
Thailand
Thailand is a tourists’ favorite when it comes to exotic holidays, but what you should know is that it is so much more than just exclusive resorts on beautiful islands. If you’re looking for a truly immersive experience, traveling through Thailand can be an amazing vacation where you not only learn about the local wildlife but you also get to experience a culture that is bound to change your world view. Whenever we are in a situation such as that, we learn to become more patient and tolerant – after all, we are the minority there and don’t speak the local language. So, seeing the incredible green rice fields of Thailand, as well as visiting an elephant sanctuary, should be on your itinerary. However, you also need to do your homework and make sure the sanctuary you’ve chosen is indeed ethical, and if it is, don’t shy away from volunteering and gaining irreplaceable life experience.
Queensland
Queensland is the Sunshine State of Australia and it’s an important wildlife destination that you should consider. Off the coasts of Queensland is located the biggest coral reef in the world – the Great Barrier Reef, and for those interested in marine life, there is no better destination than this. What you will gain from it is not only fun memories of snorkeling and diving but also more extensive knowledge and a better appreciation of our world’s incredible underwater creatures. The Great Barrier Reef is, unfortunately, slowly declining, so awakening this kind of awareness in as many people as possible is the only way to start making a change. Maybe your experiences will also inspire those around you in their perception of marine protection.
The Himalayas
Traveling to India and experiencing something as majestic as the Himalayas is a must for anyone who wants to learn about spirituality and it is one of the most healthy travel destinations in the world.. This is a region that truly remains untouched. You can visit Uttarakhand in northern India and embark on a pilgrimage that will walk you through Hindu shrines and beautiful sceneries adorned by mountain peaks and lush vegetation. And the best thing about it is that it’s not overcrowded by tourists, which gives you the perfect setting for quiet deliberation and coming to a better understanding of yourself. On the way, you can even stop by a yoga retreat, where you can experience healing and relaxation, which will allow you to come back from your travels as an overall more wholesome individual.
Traveling mindfully and responsibly might mean taking an extra step, be it checking a certain company before giving them your money or studying the local customs before going in headfirst. However, in order to make the most of your experiences and really come back as a different person, going the extra mile is more than worth it. While all of the aforementioned destinations offer you something unique, what they all have in common is that they will make you appreciate our beautiful world even more and you’ll become more tolerant as you meet all sorts of different people, in addition to becoming more aware of both our environment and your own mind. There is hardly anything that could do this other than exploring amazing wilderness destinations.