The global pandemic of 2020 brought global tourism to a halt – and we saw just how important travel really is.
For families and local economies. For ecosystems whose conservation is funded by small community based ecotourism businesses. For our minds and our hearts.
Locked down and isolated, we missed the face-to-face connections we make when exploring our own towns or faraway places. We missed the human relationships we build when we learn about lives and livelihoods different from our own, up close and in person. We realized that, when we are free to move, that’s what we’ll be seeking.
What does ‘human encounters’ really mean?
It’s the magic that happens when travelers connect deeply and meaningfully with local people to listen and learn, share stories, and support their work to build more sustainable communities – in ways that are beneficial to all.
Tips for putting human encounters at the center of experiential travel adventures
Solid relationships in your trip’s destination provide invaluable local perspectives and trusted connections.
The energy you put into developing relationships over time with the communities you visit will be evident to the travelers you lead in every aspect of your trip. You’ll learn which local businesses and restaurants to support, which communities have expanded their capacity to welcome visitors responsibly, and new ways to engage in different destinations.
Keeping your finger on the pulse is essential. Do your research, be aware of emerging trends, and don’t shortcut those scouting trips. Most importantly, even from afar, don’t let your friendships and connections stagnate: maintain and strengthen your contacts with the people you depend on to keep you up to date.
You’re the curator. Prioritize. Create the right pacing and mix for a meaningful experience.
First, select and craft the opportunities for human encounters. Whether a homestay or an afternoon, plan time for meaningful engagement: listening, asking questions, sharing stories, and encouraging all to be fully present with open hearts and minds. There is no upside to conducting visits with families, farmers, or community artisans at breakneck speed.
Remember, too, to build in plenty of down time: these conversations can be profound, even life-changing, and demand reflection. Intersperse thoughtfully, among the local encounters, time in nature; adventure activity options; and space to relax, rejuvenate, and process the experiences along the way. The whole package, carefully crafted, challenges the mind, nurtures the soul, and offers the greatest benefits to local communities and travelers.
Leave room for spontaneity.
In travel as in life, improvisation actually takes skill and preparation. When you plan carefully, know the communities well, and work with local travel providers you trust, you’ll be able to take advantage of the impromptu moments that can make a trip unforgettable. It could be the driver who stops the van in order for the group to catch a glimpse of a majestic King Vulture perched on a fence by the side of the road - or the guide who spots an outdoor Laotian wedding, tells us that anyone is invited, and off we go to meet the bride and groom. When all providers involved in the trip know that they are free to share their expertise, they’ll help you make memories for your group that you could never have created alone.
Check out Ann’s Wonderful Women Adventures itinerary for a real world example of experiential travel.
Reframe “comfort”/ Rebrand “luxury”.
Whether it’s an overnight stay with a family or a locally owned and managed property, what’s better than being welcomed and cared for in someone’s home? Where else can one see the positive economic impact of one’s travel choices so clearly? I’ve seen it time and time again on the faces of my trip participants, taking a break from a fast-paced world, demanding careers, and often crowded urban environments: simple, authentic settings provide true luxury. The slow pace of an evening in a rural family home, time to talk over coffee, a night of deep sleep in a simple but proudly loaned spare room. There is no better way to get to know a place than through the heart of its people.
For today’s experiential traveler, comfort means:
Home cooked fresh food grown on the property or purchased from local suppliers.
Access to nature out the front door- abundant beauty but more-- appreciation of the role of nature in the history, traditions and daily lives of the community.
Health and safety protocols that are custom-designed for the context at hand.
Space to share stories in creative ways that transcend speaking the same language: family photos, stick-figure drawings, games and laughter.
The good feeling that comes with simplicity: because it invites us to rest and relax, and because we know we’re a part of sustainable living.
“The homestay was amazing: the bond between us and our mama tica, or ‘Costa Rican mother,’ and the time working hard on the farm was extremely moving. Seeing the efforts to transform the country through her eyes was the true highlight for me.”
This kind of experiential travel isn’t for everyone.
Human-centered travel means visiting small communities and the road less traveled. It depends on local lodging, deep connections and human engagement. Therefore, it’s ideal for small groups of 8-14 travelers - not a busload or two.
Respect that certain communities may not want visitors. For those that do, their guidelines prevail.
Experiential travel also requires open-mindedness and flexibility on the part of the traveler. Be forthright from the outset. Who benefits from an unhappy traveler whose expectations didn’t match reality because they weren’t communicated clearly from the outset?
With honesty, clear expectations and a little luck, you’ll connect with travelers who are open to what you’re offering: Those who are comfortable with embracing a bit of the unknown and the unfamiliar. Those who know that new discoveries and people become stories that offer sustenance, inspire others, and remind us of our shared responsibility for the planet.
“Truly experiential and not at all the norm. It’s not for everyone for sure. It makes you stretch and in turn gives you gifts of experiencing first hand different cultures, people, hardships, love of country and family.”
“Been there, done that” is not part of the lexicon
When travel is anchored by deep and meaningful human encounters, each adventure is unique. Why? It’s not about the destination or the monument, or even the natural surroundings. It’s about the experience - and the people who create those experiences with you.
That’s why some Travel with Ann participants returned more than once, twice or even three times: because I enjoyed a relationship with a country and its people that became more profound with every visit, so, too, did my travel companions.
Travel With Ann Experiential Adventures
