Ever thought of trying ‘Heritage Travel’?
Hey Freaking Nomads,
I’m currently in my second month exploring China—where my dad’s family was born and still lives. And I have to say, it’s been a truly amazing experience.
Of course, I’ve visited the country before and even stayed for a long time on several occasions, but this is my first time here as a digital nomad and a grown adult. With a small backpack and my laptop, I’ve decided to visit places other than Hangzhou (my ancestral city) and discover regions I’ve never seen before.
I recently learned that what I’m doing is called "heritage travel." It’s the act of traveling back to the places our ancestors called home, not only to learn about the culture but to reconnect with the deeper aspects of our identities.
As digital nomads, we’re in a unique position to be able to “heritage travel” and spend more extended periods in our ancestral lands—an opportunity not everyone has. It's a privilege that we can make the most of, as long as there's WiFi!
Though cultural reconnection can be challenging, I still think it can be a deeply rewarding experience. So today, I’m going to show you why “heritage travel“ is worth a try and how going back to your roots can help you reconnect with yourself and even discover new aspects of your identity.
You’ll learn:
- How to make the most of your journey to your roots
- Ways to find meaning and connection through heritage travel
- How reconnecting with your origins can bring more purpose to your life
Let’s dive in.
Traveling to Rediscover Your Roots
To truly reconnect with your heritage, you need to approach travel in a mindful way. Here’s how:
1. Be open to learning from family and locals
When you visit your homeland, connecting with family or locals who share your roots can offer unexpected insights into where you came from. They can help you discover the places, customs, and traditions that shaped your family’s story. Ask questions, listen to their stories, and take the time to understand their way of life. This connection is often where you find the heart of your heritage.
2. Explore beyond the familiar places
If you’ve visited your ancestral land before, try to go beyond the places you’ve already seen. Exploring lesser-known areas or engaging in everyday experiences can give you a richer sense of your roots. Sometimes, the most meaningful moments happen off the tourist path—in quiet streets, family kitchens, or small community gatherings where you can feel an authentic sense of belonging.
3. Let yourself embrace who you are today
As you explore, remember that you’re both reconnecting with the past and living fully in the present. Reflect on how your heritage influences who you are today, and embrace any emotions that come up. Sometimes, going back to your roots helps you better understand what you value most and gives you a deeper sense of self. This journey can be a chance to weave together who you are now with the history you carry.
That’s it.
Here’s what you learned today:
- Family and locals are invaluable guides in your journey to your roots
- Exploring new areas of your heritage adds depth to your experience
- Embracing your identity in the present helps you find new purpose
As a next step, consider reaching out to family members or locals in your homeland. Ask about the places that matter most to them, and make time to visit them on your next trip.
If you're looking to deepen your connection with your ancestral culture, here are some resources to help you:
- "The Geography of Bliss" by Eric Weiner - A thought-provoking exploration of happiness across cultures
- "Global Dexterity" by Andy Molinsky - A guide to adapting your behavior across cultures without losing yourself
Hit reply and let us know your thoughts!
Have a great one,
Irene
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