By Karen Espig

Self-discovery is the journey to learning about and embracing your authentic self. It is a very personal and rewarding experience. There are many ways to explore this that do not involve leaving home. Still, sometimes, a break from your daily habits is a fast-track way to establish new routines and ways of seeing things. To help you, I’ve drawn up a list of 10 awesome places to do just that!

I highly recommend journaling or recording your progress as you go along. It is useful for understanding your feelings and experiences in the moment and also reveals your personal evolution when you look back at them. 

Santiago De Compostela, Spain: By Way Of The Camino

When it comes to introspection, you cannot beat a long, meandering stroll. The top pick for this has to be the Camino de Santiago. These renowned pilgrimages begin in various European locations and end at Santiago de Compostela, Spain. The most popular route is Camino Francés, which is 769 kilometres and takes an average of 35 days; however, many pilgrims choose a section of 100 km or more, which may be completed in a week. 

Puglia, Italy 

If you are physically fit and searching for a sustainable tourism option, how about a cycling trip in Southern Italy. This route includes quaint countryside villages and incredible coastal views. There are many other routes and options where you may self-direct or join other solo riders.

North Coast 500, Scotland

Road trip, anyone? There are many options, but choosing a less-travelled route allows you the peace and serenity you need to get to know yourself. The North Coast 500 in Scotland offers spectacular coastal scenery. You may improvise on your own or follow pre-set itineraries.

Visit Your Ancestors

Sometimes, finding out who you are is best nourished by where you came from. Consider tracing back a few generations and visiting the towns of your great-grandparents. Spend some time really thinking about the parallels and differences between their lives and yours. You might also find some inspiring relatives along the way. 

Follow The Inspiration

If distant relatives don’t connect with you, follow the life path of your favourite artist or author, visiting their family home and other key points of interest. Investigating those that inspire you will take you to unique towns and quaint museums worldwide. You may learn more about them and discover your personal connection.

Paris, France

If your self-discovery involves a committed writing practice, consider spending your vacation by taking a writing workshop in Paris. Even though the city is a throng of tourists and Parisiens, you might be surprised at how solitary it can be as you walk and experience the historical streets and shops. 

Phuket, Thailand Wellness Retreat

Self-discovery can be an intense experience, albeit a beautiful one. Physical and mental wellness can go a long way toward freeing one’s thoughts. Thailand is rated very highly for wellness retreats, and there are many options to choose from. Check out Hilltop Wellness Resort, which offers excellent healthy and healing activities and nutritious meals.

The beauty of wellness experiences is that wherever you are in the world, you can find a retreat or workshop suitable to your level and budget.

Disconnect on “The Canadian” 

This no-transfer rail experience takes you from the bustling Toronto station all the way to Vancouver on the west coast of Canada. You will have three nights and four days to write and reflect in a relaxed, safe, and wifi-free environment (available at stations only) while witnessing the stunning Canadian landscapes en route.

Workaway/ Volunteer

Personal discovery doesn’t always have to be a solo activity. Some of the most eye-opening and thought-provoking experiences come from exposure to foreign cultures and situations. Volunteer opportunities range from animal care to construction or education. Check out this animal welfare experience in Tanzania, or find another cause close to your heart. A word of warning: do your research to ensure it is genuinely an ethical workplace. 

Learn A New Skill

Challenging yourself or doing an activity that makes you feel a little anxious or excited is a great way to build confidence and realise what you are made of. Scuba diving is on my personal list, but the possibilities are endless. How about learning to cook in Italy, or if you have a month or more, learn a new language abroad. This three-week course in Japan offers language and cultural learning. Leaving your comfort zone often brings massive rewards.

However you decide to embark upon your personal journey of self-discovery, focus on being present and open. Letting go of preconceived ideas about experiences and yourself is critical to unlocking new and fabulous ideas. In reality, you need not go anywhere, but if you do, the journey continues once you return home. To quote Buddha: “There are only two mistakes one can make along the road to truth; not going all the way, and not starting.”