Ignite the wanderlust

Tips on how to get inspired and motivated to travel

white sand and turquoise lake surrounded by mountains

Wanderlust lives in all of us. But too often, it gets buried under excuses: not enough money, not enough time, not the right moment. All we have to do is clear away those doubts and let the universe show us what’s possible. Because adventure isn’t just for the wealthy, the fearless, or the lucky ones — it’s for anyone willing to take the first step.

Paul Coelho said in the Alchemist - my favourite book "If you really want something all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it".

So ask yourself, do you really want to travel or are you just day dreaming? What is stopping you? - money, time, travel buddy, partner, fear of failure, fear of missing home, family, friends, children, courage, health?

Here is the thing - travel itself is not difficult, but to take a leap, close the door of the known, familiar, comfortable and venture out of your comfort zone to the unknown is.

Ways to get inspired

Read the travel books

Travel books and magazines first sparked my curiosity and love of exploring. My biggest adventures were inspired by those who traveled before me, showing me the paths worth taking.

Travel books,, guidebooks,e-books, audio-books or novels set in faraway places have the power to spark the curiosity that turns daydreams into real adventures. No matter the format, reading a travel book opens your eyes and lets you experience a destination through someone else’s eyes inspiring your own adventures along the way.

transparent silhouette of woman face with long hair, sun on dark orange sunset background shines through her forhead

Change your mindset

Our mindset is the most powerful force behind our actions and decisions. No matter how much we dream of travel and adventure, it’s our mindset that determines whether we keep dreaming or turn those dreams into reality.

That’s why it’s important to connect with ourselves, acknowledge our worries, and understand what’s holding us back. Once we do, we gain the power to shift our thoughts and take action.

Whenever fear of the unknown creeps in, pause. Write down your negative thoughts — then rewrite them as positives. Instead of asking what could go wrong, start imagining what could go right. That was always what helped me to take a leap and embrace the unknown. Believe me once you do it, you will always do it and it will change your life

Make a bucket list

Making a bucket list is one of the most powerful steps you can take to turn your travel dreams into reality.

Take a quiet moment to connect with yourself and think about what truly excites you. What do you want to see, do, or experience? What places are you drawn to? What passions or hobbies could shape your journey? Write them all down, no matter how big or small.

Knowing what inspires and motivates you is the key to understanding yourself better and uncovering the perfect ideas for your next adventure.

Watch travel documentaries

Watching travel documentaries has inspired me since childhood. They shaped the way I see the world and fueled my dream of exploring it myself. Even today, I still love watching my favorite programs — and there’s nothing quite like the moment when you recognize a place on screen and think to yourself, “I’ve been there.”

Travel documentaries spark imagination and curiosity. They introduce you to new cultures, landscapes, and experiences, often leaving you with a list of places you can’t wait to see with your own eyes.

Travel locally to start with

The best way to build courage, confidence, and curiosity is to start by traveling locally. Exploring familiar places feels safe — yet it still counts as travel. Whether it’s a new corner of your city, a neighboring town, or a nearby hiking trail, local adventures can spark the same excitement and often reveal hidden gems you’ve overlooked for years.

As you gain confidence on these small journeys, you’ll realize you’re already halfway to your bigger travel dreams. Local travel gives you the experience and mindset you need to feel ready to step further into the world.