According to the Oxford Dictionary, travel is defined as going from one place to another, especially over a long distance. That’s exactly what travel means to me; it’s a journey of personal growth, spiritual development and physical gains. It has been the biggest university for me, where I continue to learn so much about people, culture, money, business and languages. But most importantly, it has taught me about myself—about my fears, personality, prejudices, strengths and weaknesses.
I’ve parasailed over crystal clear lagoons, swam with whales in the wild, been kissed by giraffes, experienced the world’s fastest zip line, walked alongside elephants, and camped under the stars in lost cities. Travel has allowed me to bring to life what most people only read in stories.
The way we travel will continue to change due to the pandemic. For the time being, think about staycations instead of vacations, road trips instead of air travel, and sustainable instead of fast. And until things returns to normalcy, live vicariously through some of my most beloved travels.
Sometimes, it’s not about the place you travel to, it’s about who you travel and share your journey with, and who makes your experiences special. I went on a nine-day trip to Thailand with a group of wonderful women from Dubai. We went as strangers and returned as close friends. As they say, you only really get to know someone if you travel or live with them.
Sukaina Rajabali is a pioneer in the vertical of modest travel and has photographed some of the world’s most exciting destinations from a unique vantage point. Her goal is to inspire modestly-dressed women around the world to be fashionable, independent and confident to travel the world. Through her words, images and video content, she wants to break preconceived notions about women who wear the hijab. Follow Sukaina
@SukainaRajabali on Instagram.
