Tales from TravelLocal: the trips that changed us

This International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating some of the incredible women of TravelLocal, each with a unique story of a trip that profoundly impacted their lives. Whether these trips sparked personal growth, led to unforgettable adventures, or deepened their connection with the world, each one embodies the transformative power of travel. Read on to find out all about these life-changing travel experiences, which will no doubt inspire you to take a journey of your own…

Tales from TravelLocal’s: our most memorable travel experiences

Natascha: India

When I was 25, I spent several months volunteering at an orphanage in Orchha, a small town in India that felt like a place suspended in time. Nestled among ancient temples, majestic yet crumbling palaces, and the tranquil Betwa River, Orchha had a rhythm all its own—one that moved slower and more deliberately than the fast pace I was used to.

Each day, I was greeted by wide smiles, sparkling eyes full of curiosity, and little hands reaching out for connection. My role was simple: playing, teaching, and just being present. Yet, in the end, I felt that they taught me far more than I could ever teach them. Despite facing tremendous hardship, they radiated laughter and warmth, showing me what true resilience looks like.

That was one of the travel experiences that shifted my perspective on life, on gratitude, and on human connection. Orchha, with its profound beauty and its remarkable people, will forever hold a special place in my heart.

Laisa: Hungary

It was 2011, and I was 26. Earlier that year, I lost my partner in a car accident, and grief hung heavy over me, casting a long shadow over everything. The pain was palpable, and it felt like time moved slower than it should.

Then, in the final months of the year, a friend introduced me to someone via email, thinking we might have some common ground. We exchanged messages, and soon after, went on a date. It felt effortless—we clicked right away. We were both active, sporty, and shared an easy connection. Our fourth date? A spontaneous one-week trip to Budapest.

The trip was nothing short of magical. We spent hours exploring museums, relaxing in spas, attending opera performances, and immersing ourselves in history—all while growing closer and getting to know one another. By the end of the week, I knew I wanted to see more of him.

Fast forward 14 years, and here we are, still together. Our partnership has blossomed into something I cherish deeply. He’s been incredibly supportive and has taught me so much—not just about the world, but about myself, too.

At the time, it may have seemed like a bold move to take that trip so soon. But looking back now, I can confidently say it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

Isabelle: Nepal

In October 2007, I spent two unforgettable weeks in Nepal with seven close friends. We started by exploring the vibrant streets of Kathmandu, before embarking on a nine-day trek along the Mt. Everest trail, culminating at Tengboche Monastery. The landscapes were beyond anything I had imagined—towering peaks, including Everest’s summit, looming majestically in the distance.

As we trekked, we passed through remote villages, stayed in humble tea houses, and had the privilege of meeting the Sherpa people. We watched in awe as seasoned Everest climbers and Sherpas navigated steep trails with ease, many of them carrying enormous loads in nothing but flip-flops. It was a humbling reminder of the resilience and strength of these incredible people.

The trip was the perfect blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and shared memories with friends. Our guides and Sherpas were not only incredibly knowledgeable but also a lot of fun. They even took the time to teach us how to make momos, and one guide invited us into his home, offering a rare glimpse into life in the mountains.

Getting in and out of Lukla was an adventure in itself. Landing on its notorious airstrip in a tiny plane was thrilling, but the real excitement came when we tried to leave. Thick fog grounded flights for three days, creating a backlog of trekkers eager to get home. Finally, we were offered a last-minute seat on an old military-style helicopter—an unexpected, yet fitting, end to our journey.

At the time, I was living in New York, and this trip was a much-needed reset. It pulled me out of the hustle of city life and gave me a fresh perspective—reminding me of the importance of spending time outdoors, experiencing different ways of living, and appreciating the vastness of the world beyond my daily routine.

Read more: Female-led initiatives to explore on your next trip

Sam: South Africa

I was on the brink of graduating from university, completely uncertain about what I wanted to do next. I was envious of my friends, who seemed so sure of their futures—many planning to study further and become teachers, lawyers, or architects.

Then, out of nowhere, I was offered a chance to interview for a job that would take me all around South Africa, inspecting holiday accommodations of every shape and size, and writing up summaries about each one. A friend was offered the same opportunity, but she decided against it after her parents shared their concerns about the risks of traveling there as a young woman. Fortunately, my parents were more supportive, as long as I stayed sensible—no driving at night, no picking up hitchhikers, and so on. So, off I went.

And I had the most incredible time! Based in Cape Town, I would plan two-week loops, visiting as many cottages, game lodges, B&Bs, and hotels as possible along the way. I met hundreds of fascinating people from all walks of life, explored some of South Africa’s most remote corners, and had wildlife encounters that have forever spoiled most animal-viewing experiences for me. It’s hard to top waking up to whales breaching in the bay outside my flat at sunrise… Or watching leopard cubs playfully scamper up and down a tree, or facing down a matriarch elephant (and the younger females eager to follow her lead). One unforgettable breakfast was spent sitting on a terrace outside my room, writing up recent inspections while tiny, jewel-bright sunbirds darted in and out of the fynbos that surrounded me. So many magical moments that will stay with me forever.

After four months, I returned home exhausted, incredibly well-fed (the hospitality was second to none), and with at least an extra four years of maturity. I often wonder what would have happened if I hadn’t gone. Would I have ended up on the path that led me to the travel industry I love? Who knows… But I’m so glad I took that leap.

Kathryn: Indonesia

In 2016, I set off on a surreal journey, joining a group of international travel bloggers to explore the islands of Indonesia. The trip was nothing short of extraordinary—we sailed through the jungles of Borneo on a klotok boat, trekked to see wild orangutans and Komodo dragons, planted rice, and cooked local dishes in a beautiful traditional home. I even had my phone stolen by the cheeky monkeys of Uluwatu and ended up with eight stitches in my head in Bali, courtesy of a rip current and a rogue surfboard.

Before the trip, I was nervous about the intense itinerary and cramped living spaces with strangers. But by the end of the first day, we had already become friends, and by the end of the three-week adventure, we’d forged bonds over our shared travel experiences.

I began the journey as an anxious mom of two, dreading the unknown. But by the time I returned, I was changed. Three weeks in Indonesia reminded me of who I truly am—someone who loves connecting with new people, embracing authentic local experiences, and stepping out of my comfort zone to create new memories.

That’s the true beauty of travel: every journey leaves you transformed.

Nadia: New Zealand

In 2002, I spent six unforgettable weeks in New Zealand. I traveled across the South Island by coach, hardly daring to blink because the landscapes were so overwhelmingly beautiful. Every corner revealed something more breathtaking than the last. At one point, I even took a tiny, bumpy charter flight over the Cook Strait to Wellington—an adventure in itself!

While I was there, I picked up a few books by Māori writers, eager to learn more about the culture. Little did I know, this would ignite a passion that would shape my future. What began as a simple interest soon evolved into a deep academic pursuit of Māori literature. Seven years later, I was awarded a PhD and published my own book about Māori novels.

Looking back, it’s incredible to think that a single trip, sparked by curiosity, would lead me down such a profound and rewarding path.

Read more: Tales from TravelLocal: where we’re going in 2025

Make it happen

As we celebrate the strength, resilience, and courage of these TravelLocal women this International Women’s Day, we’re reminded that travel has the power to transform, uplift, and connect us in ways we never imagined. Their stories are a testament to the life-changing potential of stepping outside our comfort zones and embracing new travel experiences.

We hope they’ve inspired you to start planning your next journey—one that not only changes the world around you, but also helps you grow and discover more about yourself. Our local experts will be on hand to help you plan memorable travel experiences near and far, so get in touch with them today.