As a travel affectionate, I understand the joy of exploring new places, experiencing diverse cultures, and creating everlasting memories. However, there are times when circumstances keep us grounded at home. Whether it’s due to “no money”, work commitments, or unforeseen events. Being a homebound nomad doesn’t mean you have to abandon your love for travel. Sometimes you just have to be patient and not to stop dreaming. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to encourage a nomad’s mindset right in the comfort of your own home.
Embrace the Art of Discovery
One of the essential aspects of travel is to discover the unknown. At home, this can be achieved by exploring your local surroundings with fresh eyes – just imagine being a tourist at your own city. Take a different route during your daily walk, visit a new cafe, or embark on a photography adventure in your neighborhood. Just as you would in a foreign destination, look for the beauty and uniqueness in your own backyard. You will be surprised how many new hidden gems you will find just outside your door.
Plan Imaginary Itineraries
Create travel itineraries for your dream destinations, even if you can’t visit them right now. You have time to discover. Research the best attractions, restaurants, and accommodations, and curate a complete plan. This not only keeps your wanderlust alive but also prepares you for future adventures when the opportunity arises. Of course, you will not stick to that plan at your future visit but it’s a great activity and you learn about new things!
Watch travel related movies & series
How about watching Movies? Some people are more a visual type of person – like me too. There are thousands of documentaries, travel guides and movies which take place in beautiful surroundings (Eat, Pray & Love; Mamma Mia; The bucket list; The Beach; ……) On Sundays, we often watch travel documentaries of different places of the world, even culinary documentaries show the beauty of a culture.
Dive into Travel Literature
Traveling through the pages of a book can be as exciting as embarking on a physical journey. Expand your horizons by reading travel memoirs, novels set in far-off places and times, or travel guides that arouse your interest. Dive into the vivid descriptions and immerse yourself in the cultures and landscapes painted by talented authors.
Savor International Cuisine
One of the most delightful aspects of travel is the local cuisine. Bring global flavors to your kitchen by experimenting with recipes from around the world even if they seem so complicated often it’s just about different spices. I love to cook Iranian food to feel my roots. But we always try to bring some new spice to the plate. Venezuelan arepas, Chilean Pastel de choclo, Moroccan Tajine, Costa Rican breakfast… There is so much to taste. And if you don’t like to cook, you can just visit a restaurant in your town!
Connect with Fellow Travelers
If you want to meet new people like you do on travels, thanks to the internet, we can connect online. Engage with fellow travelers on social media, share travel stories or join travel forums. It’s a fantastic way to get to know new people who are travel lovers like you and just get inspired.
Decorate with Souvenirs and Art
Do you have souvenirs and arts from your past travels? If you surround yourself with them in your own home, they will remind you and transport you mentally to those far-off destinations. We love to collect little souvenirs and to decorate a colorful home with them!
Learn a New Language
When I was in school, I loved my English & Spanish classes. I felt that I want to be here to learn that specific language. It opens doors for future travels and enriches you generally. You can use apps to learn the basics, even from your living room. Maybe you can find a Tandem-Partner who wants to learn your language and you can chat together.
Music is a journey
Hearing music sometimes takes you to another place on this world. Maybe it’s a memory but even if you were not there, you can feel a lot through music. It’s an expression of a culture and you can connect the easiest with people through music. If you play an instrument you can jam with the sounds of unknown lands.
Being a homebound nomad doesn’t mean you have to suppress your wanderlust.
By embracing the traveler’s mindset, you can continue to explore, learn, and grow even from the comfort of your own sofa as a homebound nomad. Whether it’s through discovering local hidden gems, cooking international dishes, or dreaming of your future trips, there are many ways to keep your travel spirit alive. So, let your imagination take off, and let your mind and home become your journey around the world.
How do you ”travel” from your sofa? What are your favorite movies, books or ways to express your wanderlust? Share it with the world, in the comments!
Written by a Homebound Nomad <3
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