As someone who has lived and worked in different countries, traveled solo, and hosted retreats around the world, I’ve learned that how we travel matters; not just for our own experience, but for the communities, environments, and cultures we choose to visit along the way.

Travel can be transformative, but it’s also easy to fall into patterns of overconsumption, over-tourism, and taking more than we give back. Even with the retreats I host, I make it a priority to be intentional about where we go and how we show up.

For me, conscious travel and designing conscious retreats means:

• Choosing retreat centers that have implemented eco-friendly initiatives and asking them directly how they reduce their environmental impact.

• Supporting venues that work with and uplift local communities, including vulnerable populations in their surroundings.

• Choosing experiences that reduce my footprint, like hiking tours over all-terrain vehicles.

• Respecting local communities and cultures. Never taking photos of people without consent.

• Being mindful of what I bring home, avoiding mindless souvenirs or overconsumption.

• Traveling slowly, allowing space to absorb the richness of a place rather than racing through checklists of “must-see” activities.

• Focusing on reciprocity, how can I give back, honor, or support the places I visit?

• Packing mindfully by avoiding cheap, fast-fashion clothes and single-use items - bring quality items that will last multiple trips

Reflection Questions for Conscious Travel

Here are some questions I reflect on before and during my travels:

1. Am I traveling in a way that supports the local community, rather than just taking from it?

2. Does what I pack reflect my intention to travel mindfully and reduce my footprint?

3. How can I reduce my environmental footprint while exploring this destination?

4. Am I being respectful of the people, cultures, and spaces I encounter?

5. Do I need to buy this, or is it a moment better experienced than possessed?

6. How can I travel slowly, mindfully, and with intention, rather than rushing through?

Travel, especially for yoga retreats or solo travel, is an opportunity to connect, give as much as we receive, and leave a place a little better than we found it. By bringing conscious awareness to our choices, we not only reduce harm but also create richer, more meaningful experiences for ourselves and those around us.