What is Digital Nomadism?

A sign of the times perhaps, Merriam-Webster added the word “digital nomad” to the dictionary in 2023. Digital nomad is defined as “someone who performs their occupation entirely over the internet while traveling.” Typically, digital nomads use wireless networking to work without a fixed address. Some people choose to work this way indefinitely, setting up shop in one place until another calls to them. Others head out for a few months or a year in a Starlink-enabled RV (or van, boat, bike, bus, or buggy), fueled by entrepreneurship, opportunity, or wanderlust. There are many ways to do it, and working while traveling is tugging at the heartstrings of more and more individuals and families!

The digital nomad lifestyle is growing in popularity, big time. Today there are roughly 35 million digital nomads, 17 million of whom are US citizens. There are nomads of all ages, all backgrounds, all professions. They are gay, straight, married, single, with and without kids. Some live in communities or hubs, others roam independently or as a family. This recent Forbes article describes several popular paths to becoming a digital nomad: negotiating with a current or new employer to be full-time remote, turning a lifestyle of travel into a business, using one’s skills to support or collaborate with other digital nomads, and turning what you love into an income-generating job. Industry analysts predict that the epic growth will continue and by 2030 there will be over one billion digital nomads worldwide.

Many factors explain the rise in digital nomadism. For one, moving through COVID equipped many more people with skills and tools for virtual school and remote work. And many liked it! Some families liked it so much they are choosing to not go back to school and instead learn in a manner where the world is their classroom, an educational approach called worldschooling. Some companies liked it so much they adopted flexible “work anywhere” policies for their employees, further contributing to the growth in digital nomadism.

Secondly, working while traveling is exciting and attractive. There are opportunities to meet interesting people, stay in beautiful and different places, lower one’s cost of living, cut commuting time, cultivate curiosity, and grow in new ways.

Third, according to a recent article in the Harvard Business Review, there’s a culture shift taking place marked by generational disillusionment. The so-called “good life” that older generations experienced feels unattainable or undesirable for many people today. With super competitive workplaces, rising housing costs, political and environmental volatility, and the empty feeling of accumulating stuff, many folks today are driven to look at alternative lifestyles like digital nomadism.

There’s one more factor that can help explain the “work anywhere” trend, and that’s digital nomad visas – a shiny new ticket to location-independent work. Digital nomad visas help overcome two limitations of tourist visas: 1) the limited time allowed in a country; and 2) not being allowed to work legally.

Visaguide.world is a helpful site for travelers.

What is a Digital Nomad Visa?

A digital nomad visa is a specialized visa that authorizes foreign individuals (and sometimes a spouse, partner, and dependents) to live and work within the issuing country’s borders. It’s like having temporary residency. The visas may be renewable and typically require the individual applying to show proof of income, health insurance, university degree, or a certain number of years of professional experience, vaccination record, clean criminal record, etc. Many countries seek to attract digital nomads and create relatively favorable terms to do that. They see the long-term presence of foreigners with a steady paycheck as a way to drive economic activity and generate a sustainable flow of income as opposed to tourism dollars, which only flow seasonally. At the same time, the digital nomad is often able to stretch their income by enjoying a relatively lower cost of living. So there is a sort of symbiosis in the arrangement. That’s not to say that digital nomadism is universally appreciated. There’s great concern that the presence of foreigners with money is causing gentrification and that locals are getting priced out of their own towns. This recent article from the Georgetown Public Policy Review takes a close look at the effect of digital nomadism in Latin America.

A day in the life of a digital nomad.

How Do I Get a Digital Nomad Visa?

In order to start the process of obtaining a digital nomad visa, you have to know where you want to reside and work, then you can look at the visa requirements for that country. Whenever possible, go to the consulate website or an official source to get the most up-to-date information. The space is very dynamic so double-check that what you are reading is current.

If you are unsure of the exact country you want to travel to and just know you want to be somewhere good for digital nomads, you can check sites like Nomad List or Digital Nomad Visa Index, both of which provide useful data to help narrow your selection. They publish information like internet speeds, income requirements, safety, and cost of living, and they provide descriptions and rankings of best places for digital nomads. Lonely Planet also has a Digital Nomad Handbook which provides a good general overview as well as specific information on several hot digital nomad locations. You might also check with one of many digital nomad Facebook groups to get the skinny on different places. Two popular communities are Digital Nomads (167K+ members) and Digital Nomads Hub (60K+ members).

Once you have narrowed down the countries, then dial in your research, gather the required documents, submit your paperwork, brush up on a new language, wait, and cross your fingers. If rejected, there is typically an appeals process.

Here’s some basic information to help you learn more about digital nomad visas:

How Much Does a Digital Nomad Visa Cost?

Application fees run the gamut from $10 to $3000, but typically they are in the $100 to $200 range. And, you may have to pay the same application fee for each family member and when/if you renew the visa.

Do I Have to Pay Taxes if I am a Digital Nomad?

Many countries offer an initial tax-free period that comes with the digital nomad visa. Others make it tax-free the entire period of the visa. Some, however, require digital nomads to pay taxes the whole time you reside in the country. For some people, paying taxes feels like an unfair burden, but it’s important to keep in mind that digital nomads use physical and social infrastructure – like roads, schools, emergency response. In this regard, paying taxes in host countries helps keep them liveable, walkable, and safe.

As for paying taxes back home, even when working abroad, you still have to file federal and state taxes because US tax law is based on citizenship, not residence. Here’s a helpful article on other tax matters and digital nomadism.

Where would you go?

How Long Can I Stay in a Country on a Digital Nomad Visa?

It depends. Every country is different. In Iceland, it’s 180 days. In Portugal, it’s one year with an optional renewal every year up to the maximum of 5 years. In the UAE it’s up to one year. In Dominica it’s 1.5 years, and in Thailand a digital nomad can be authorized to stay for up to 10 years, though this Long Term Resident Visa is rather restrictive.  So the answer is it depends.

What’s It Like To Be a Digital Nomad?

It’s amazing to be a digital nomad! It’s hard to be a digital nomad! It’s a dream come true! It’s not what I thought! To be sure, digital nomadism is a mixed bag and it’s not for everyone. What is true across the board is this – Successful digital nomads are self-starters, have good time management and budgeting skills, are motivated and self-driven, exercise patience, thrive in the unknown and have a gallon litre  liter of good luck. Digital nomads build supportive communities and tend to find each other. Here’s a quick look at the digital nomad lifestyle in three different locations to provide a little taste of what it’s like:

• A day in the life of a German software engineer, a digital nomad living in New Zealand. Thomas works part-time. His days are full of healthy meals, quiet walks, reading, and relaxing. His work day starts at 7:00 pm New Zealand time when it is 7:00 am in Germany. He typically works until 11:00 pm.

• A day in the life of a digital nomad content creator in Bangkok. This video is an example of the work of a digital nomad, Sergio, an architect gone webdesigner, now a full-time YouTuber.

• A day in the life of a business coach in Croatia. Amanda talks about her time in Split, Croatia. She is a full-time traveler and loves to share her experience and helpful information with others.

Do People Need a Digital Nomad Visa to Come to the United States?

Currently, there is no Digital Nomad Visa for the US. But even without that visa, vibrant digital nomad communities are growing across the country in places such as Portland, OR, Kansas City, MO, and Denver, CO. Keep in mind that the digital nomad lifestyle does not require overseas travel. More and more people are moving about within their own country too in pursuit of time freedom and location independence.

Ah, old school telephonic communications.

What are the Downsides of Being a Digital Nomad?

Digital Nomadism may sound incredibly glamorous, but it may not be good for everyone and it may not be good for every place. Here’s a dose of reality to help keep you grounded and realistic about living that dream.

• Uncertainty – If you set off to work remotely in a traditional job (i.e., you have an employer), your employer could call you back at any time. That uncertainty may be unsettling. (Pro tip: One way to manage feelings of uncertainty is to have an off ramp or a contingency plan. It might look like a pot of savings, a prearranged place to stay if you return home unexpectedly, or a quarterly check-in with your supervisor to keep the lines of communication open.)

• Language barrier – Living in a new country presents a wonderful opportunity to learn a new language, but making yourself understood and taking care of important business like finalizing paperwork such as leases and utility agreements while you are still learning the language can be incredibly frustrating.

• Culture shock and loneliness – It can be exhausting and discomfiting to be the new person on the block over and over again, even where there’s a seemingly welcoming digital nomad community.

• Not having a professional, cultural or social network – While some digital nomads stay digitally connected to their workgroups and teams back home, the lack of an in-person professional network can add to a feeling of loneliness. The time zone difference can also make it difficult to connect virtually with your professional peers back home. That said, there are digital nomads of every age and ethnicity, and you might find your peeps in forums like Digital Nomads Over 50, Black Digital Nomads, Female Digital Nomads, or by simply doing the things you love to do and saying “ciao” to the person next to you.

• Time zone management and digital stress – It is common knowledge that travelers need to be prepared to deal with the unexpected. The demands of work double the need to adapt and be flexible. Digital nomads have to be ready to problem-solve and pivot. While some digital nomads plan strategically to be in the same time zone as clients, the onus is typically on them to accommodate employers, colleagues, customers, schedules, holidays, and technology glitches. If traveling with kids and they are doing online school work, bandwidth may be another limiting factor. The privilege of working remotely, and I mean really remotely, comes with some tradeoffs.

• Homesickness and second-guessing yourself can make problems seem bigger than they would at home. Your usual coping mechanisms may feel remote, too, and finding a new mindset may take awhile.

Fulfilling your dream to become a digital nomad may be the greatest turn in your life and there are many, hundreds, thousands, millions of people out there ready to welcome and support you. With your digital nomad visa, proper planning and preparation, a willingness to deal with trade-offs, and a reasonable contingency plan, you’ve got this, friend, now let’s go!

The post Digital Nomad Visas: Location-Independent Living appeared first on Wonder Year Travel.

Traveling long-term with your family… Sounds dreamy, right? 

Right now, many families are traveling with their kids, learning from the world as they live the life of their dreams. Is this on your bucket list, too?

Who are these people and how do they do it? Perhaps you heard of a friend of a friend who worldschooled their kids for a year. Or, maybe your Instagram feed has given you a peek into family travel content creators who live full-time on the road with kids in tow. You also might just be starting to feel the travel itch and find yourself searching #vanlife when you’re perusing Pinterest. 

And who are we? We are the trio of fellow family travelers who wrote the award-winning, Amazon-bestselling book titled Wonder Year: A Guide to Long-Term Family Travel and Worldschooling, available anywhere books are sold. Our website wonderyear.com has free resources and blogs on relevant and current topics like AI and Worldschooling, carbon offsets or even the family travel angles for various destinations. Our blog also highlights worldchooling community connectors and currently traveling families in our Fernweh Families series. 

We are active members of family travel and worldschooling Facebook groups. We pay attention to the questions that pop in those forums and gear our blogs to answer the most common ones. This blog round-up will offer you some short answers to your early first questions of worldschooling FAQs. Drum roll, please. Here are answers to some of the most common questions. 

Question 1: What is worldschooling?

The first blog we recommend you read is: What Is Worldschooling? This post goes over the basics, explains key terms and concepts that will show up in online communities, and clears up some common misconceptions and answers many more worldschooling FAQs. Perhaps the information in this blog is the fodder to start a conversation with your kids or your partner to see if there’s collective interest in long-term travel, or to plant the first seed of worldschooling as an idea for your family. 

Question 2: How do people afford long-term family travel?

You might think this type of family gap year or open-ended way of life is only for wealthy families. We show you that’s not the case.This blog, How do Families Afford Long-Term Travel?, shows the ins and outs of the creative ways real families make it work. Speaking of work, many families afford extended travel by working on the road, which we cover more extensively in this blog. Here’s another blog that covers digital nomad visas and how those apply to digital nomadism and worldschooling families.

Question 3: How do we decide whether to travel long-term? 

Rarely do people feel that there is a convenient time to pack everything up and head out the door. But often the best times in our lives happen when we shake things up, make bold decisions and dream big. If you wait for the convenient time, it might not come. This blog, making the decision, is a five-point framework similar to the one offered in our book.

Now that you’ve decided to leave home, where will you go? This blog helps you think about the factors that might go into this next set of decisions. Maybe it’s cost, connectivity, family history, or worldschooling themes–we’ll help you hone your family travel bucket list.

Question 4: What about pets?

One of the most common obstacles to setting off for a Wonder Year is our furry friends. How can you say goodbye to the pets in your family? This post will help you think through how to leave them in safe hands or take them along with you.

If you could work from anywhere… you can always find a chair.

Question 5: What shoes do I pack?

The next big question asked is: if I’m packing light for an extended time, how do I whittle down the shoes? Seriously. I know this might seem much less serious, but it’s a real concern for many. To solve this, Annika teamed up with her childhood BFF, stylist Daisy Barnett, to answer the question in detail. With links and advice, this blog helps you family-travel in style!

If you find these blogs offer real world solutions to help get you off the ground and out into the world, consider purchasing our book. You can also sign up for our newsletter. We wish you and your family a wonder-ful journey! 

The Wonder Year team (Annika, Angela, and Julie)

It has been so heartwarming to share Wonder Year.

The post Worldschooling FAQs appeared first on Wonder Year Travel.

If you have been on a commercial flight in the past few years, chances are you have come face to face with a carbon offset offer from the airline. It may have been a click enabling you to “fly green” or a calculator to help determine the carbon footprint of your trip.  

 What are Carbon Offsets?

A carbon offset is a mechanism to “cancel out” the amount of carbon associated with one activity by reducing emissions in another activity or a different location. The basis for the offsetting model is that greenhouse gases mix globally in the atmosphere, therefore it does not matter where we reduce carbon emissions. It’s just important that we reduce them. 

We should also recognize that the most vulnerable communities bear the worst of climate change impacts while contributing the least to the problem. Carbon offsets offer one way to help these communities by supporting sustainable development and alleviating poverty. 

For worldschooling families, understanding carbon offsets can help us travel sustainably and responsibly. The topic also provides a timely and fascinating worldschooling lesson in science, economics, geography, chemistry, entrepreneurship, and sustainability. Let’s look at how the carbon offset market began. 

 History of Carbon Offsets

In 1997, the United Nations hosted a meeting of countries where they adopted the first international climate agreement, the Kyoto Protocol. It mandated that some countries reduce their carbon emissions. Those countries in turn argued they could do a better job of reducing carbon emissions (it would cost less and they could do more) if they could “offset” their carbon emissions from anywhere on the planet. So, for example, a European signatory to the Kyoto Protocol could invest in planting forests in South America. The “carbon credits” that accrue from that reforestation project could be used to meet the carbon reduction obligations of that European country.

 Today, it’s not just countries undertaking offset activities. Companies, nonprofit organizations, investment houses, and travelers can make voluntary commitments to offset their carbon impact, helping to achieve broader sustainability goals. The popularity of voluntary carbon offsets has created an enormous market, which some industry analysts predict will reach $250 billion by 2050. 

Carbon Offsets in the Tourism Industry

The travel and tourism industry is responsible for about 10% of global carbon emissions. Every time we head out on a trip, drive to the airport, take a flight, sleep in a lodge, or use single use plastics, we generate carbon emissions. The airline industry is “on board,” so to speak, and is looking for ways to lessen its aviation carbon footprint through things like sustainable aviation fuels, route optimization, and more efficient aircraft. As travelers, we can get “on board” by flying less, walking or biking instead of driving, staying in hotels with solar panels, taking an overnight train instead of a regional flight, skipping the plastic straw, and recycling more. But, no matter how good of a job we do, no matter how good of a job the aviation industry does, there will always be more carbon to cut. That’s why carbon offsets are so important.  

Sometimes air travel is necessary.

Types of Carbon Offsets

There is a wide variety of carbon offset projects and platforms around the world. These projects enable individuals and organizations to balance their carbon impacts in a variety of ways. Some are nature-based projects that aim to enhance biodiversity, improve forest management, restore coastal ecosystems, and promote renewable fuels (such as solar and wind). Others are technology-based solutions that focus on improving manufacturing processes and cutting pollution at the source.

Below is a sample of carbon offset projects that illustrate the breadth of options available today:

Cool Effect is a nonprofit that supports a range of carbon-reducing projects. On the Cool Effect platform, organizations and individuals can calculate the impact of a planned event, activity, or business function, then purchase offsets through one of the vetted projects to achieve net zero emissions.  

One Tribe helps businesses fund rainforest projects by working directly with Indigenous landowners and forest conservation partners. The Great Bear Forest Project, Canada’s first Indigenous-led forest management project, is a fine example of One Tribe’s work. One Tribe also has an e-commerce plugin that helps businesses and consumers generate forest protection microdonations with every purchase. 

8 Billion Trees offers a selection of carbon offset projects that support the Amazon Rainforest and wildlife conservation. Concerned about ecosystem health and not just planting trees, 8 Billion Trees makes sure that the trees planted are endemic to the area.

Climate Vault – Climate Vault buys up permits that would allow carbon pollution, effectively “locking” those permits away and keeping tons of CO2 out of the atmosphere. 

United Nations Carbon Offset Platform – The United Nations Carbon Offset Platform is a one-stop shop to support those interested in offsetting their carbon impact. On the UN Platform you can first estimate household emissions and then select a project that balances out that impact. Some of the current projects are:

Solar Power in Korea that is replacing coal-fired power plants

Wind Power in Jamaica that is reducing fossil fuel use and preserving natural resources

Biogas Project in Cambodia that is recovering and utilizing methane, a greenhouse gas that is 28 times more potent than Carbon dioxide

All of the projects available through the UN Platform are Clean Development Mechanism (CDM)  projects. That means they are authorized by designated authorities and have a high level of  accountability.

The above examples represent a small fraction of the offset projects currently available. There is tremendous growth in the number and variety of programs on the market and we expect the continued proliferation as more companies and countries commit to climate action. 

Wind-powered travel!

 The Problems with Carbon Offsets 

While offsets can do good in the world by sequestering carbon, funding reforestation, enhancing conservation, and supporting local community sustainability, there are some serious problems to be aware of: 

1. Flight Carbon Calculators generate only an estimation – There are several tools to estimate the carbon impact of your flight and it’s super cool to plug in your data and see how much carbon will be emitted. But it’s not that straightforward. Nothing about carbon offsets is simple! Many factors can affect the emissions of a flight including type of aircraft, class of seating (first class is the worst since it takes up more space per person), how full the flight is, how the plane was fueled up, the weather conditions on the day of travel, etc.  
2. True cost– It’s often the case that for longer flights, the cost of an offset is insufficient to cancel out the true carbon impact. This New York Times Wirecutter article takes a deep dive into the question about whether buying that $20 offset actually cancels out the true environmental impact of a 5000 or 10,000-mile flight.  
3. Fraud and “Phantom Offsets” – In January 2023, the Guardian published a scathing report that exposed the failure of many rainforest offset projects, arguing that 90% of the offsets by the biggest certifier at the time were not actually leading to carbon reduction. It was a shocking and important revelation, as many large and reputable corporations were involved. The problem is basically a methodological one – it’s very difficult to know with confidence how much carbon one hectare of forest can sequester and how much impact can be credibly claimed. 
4. Quality assurance – There is no single standardizing or verifying body to check the veracity of all offset claims. However, there are many independent third-party organizations conducting rigorous analysis today. It’s critical that before purchasing an offset you look for proper accreditation and verification through such entities as American Carbon Registry, Gold Standard Impact Registry, and Verra. 
5. Greenwashing – Offsets alone will not solve the climate crisis. They must work in tandem with absolute emissions reductions. Some companies try to win over customers by saying they are green. They tout their offset programs while making no actual changes to their practices or business operations. According to United Airlines CEO, Scott Kirby, “The problem with offsets is that it’s basically saying you are going to plant trees, or saying you are not going to cut down trees. Nothing wrong with saving trees. But the reality is the vast majority of those projects are fraud. They are forests that were never going to be cut down or were forests that were going to be planted anyway. Even for legitimate projects, it’s not scalable. The problem is, everyone is using carbon offsets as the easy way to check the box. It’s too easy to say, ‘I’ve done my part for net zero.’” Scott Kriby is basically saying, “We can’t buy our way out of this problem.” 

The problems above may seem daunting but we mustn’t let them deter action. Instead, we can ask the hard questions, examine our choices, take the chance to learn together as a family, and be intentional. And as we weigh the tradeoffs that come with family travel, we can skip the guilt and instead welcome the opportunity for discovery, wonder, learning and making a positive impact. Carbon offsets are an important tool in our toolbox and they give us an opportunity to lighten our footprint on our one, our only, our beautiful home, Planet Earth.

To learn more about about carbon offsets and sustainable long-term travel, check out this carbon offset guide and our Wonder Year 2023 Earth Month post which dives a little deeper into the topic of sustainable travel.

Travel reminds us of all we have to lose.

The post Carbon Offsets appeared first on Wonder Year Travel.

Several years ago, our family of four traveled the world for two amazing years of education and adventure. Those worldschooling experiences were meaningful and enriching, chock full of learning, togetherness, and memories to savor. Across the years, we’ve tried to bring what we loved from that time into any chance we have to travel together.

Both of our boys are now in college, so my husband Mark and I are freshly-minted empty nesters. This year presents a new window of opportunity for us to hit the road. We both work remotely, and Mark’s recent career change means we don’t have to be rooted anywhere until 2025. We are also planning to relocate away from Colorado, prompting a chance to untether and lighten our load. So, we’ve decided to become full-time RVers again–without the kids this time, except when they visit “home” from far away. We’ll still have our dog Timber with us, though! Now 80 in canine years, he’ll be along for the ride.

This blog is for anyone sorting out how to launch RV travel, whether or not you have kids in tow. We have some experience to rely on and share, and still much to learn along the way, too. 

Launching in sub-zero temps.

Choosing a Home

Mark and I met in college and bonded over our shared love of travel. We had both spent our childhoods RVing with our grandparents, and long before we could afford an RV of our own, we road-tripped and tent-camped as a couple and later with our two sons. In 2014, we bought our first RV: an Airstream 30’ Flying Cloud. We fell in love with its practicality, flexibility, and style, plus it was the only Airstream with bunks for the kids. Soon after the purchase, we sold our house and cars, donated and stored our belongings, and hit the road for two years to travel across North America as a family.

After settling into a sticks-and-bricks house again in 2016, our teenagers quickly outgrew the Flying Cloud bunks. We sold that trailer (to another family launching full-time travel!) and purchased a different Airstream with a bit more space. We used it for many weekend trips, school holiday vacations, and an amazing 10-week summer journey across the Pacific Northwest. We’ve now swapped rigs again for one with a better layout and features for Mark and me. As we hit the road, we’re re-learning what we need to know about towing, mechanical systems, and DIY repairs. 

A temporary intervention.

Airstreams have always suited us given their nimbleness and seamless indoor-outdoor living, but they have some major tradeoffs in terms of living space and storage. Many traveling families we’ve spoken with prefer a larger RV with dedicated bedrooms and more generous living and kitchen spaces. There are so many recreational vehicle options for families, including motorhomes, pop-up campers, fifth-wheelers, toy haulers, travel trailers, and camper vans. Choosing what works best for your family–especially for long-term travel–takes some research. If you are considering RV life, here are a few of our favorite resources to help you learn more.

• How to Choose The Right RV For You: Tips from Experienced Full-Time RVers – starter guidance from an RV club
• Find Your Perfect RV or Camper Based on Your Lifestyle – THOR Industries – insights from one of the largest networks of RV companies
• Find the Right RV for You | Go RVing – a fun tool to get your gears turning
• The Complete Guide to Finding the Right RV… for YOU! – Follow Your Detour – a blog post offering insights from one couple’s experiences and recommendations for choosing your own rig
• 2024 Expert Guide To Choose The Best RV For Full Time Living – The Adventure Detour – another blog, this time zeroing in on choosing an RV for full-time travel

Prepping for Launch

Our idea to live on the road again percolated for a few years before it became a solid plan. Then the plan started with some big decisions–the first was to sell our home and move into a rental. We also began the process of downsizing, both during and after that move.

Next it was time to start chipping away at a lengthy to-do list. Planning to launch in early 2024, we extended our lease and created a multi-month gameplan. The number of things to take care of can seem overwhelming–so much so that we cover them across several chapters in Wonder Year. We had things to close up at home, financials to sort through, healthcare appointments to schedule, an RV to purchase, and a year of travel to sort out. In case it’s helpful as a reference, here’s a copy of the to-do list we were using.

During our Wonder Years, we reserved some popular campsites ahead of time but also booked many sites along the way, stopping when and where our hearts desired. That’s become a lot harder to navigate since COVID, when RV purchases grew dramatically. There are now over a million full-time RV households in the US (about 30% are families), and an estimated 11.2 million households own an RV! That’s a lot of people vying for the best sites, so if you like to book ahead of time, securing preferred spots requires good planning. You’ll need to map out your route, research and select desired locations, target your necessary amenities, choose your desired sites, and then know what dates bookings go live. It takes some legwork, but hopefully you’ll be rewarded with roomy sites and gorgeous views.

Some of our favorite RV travel planning tools include:

• RV LIFE Pro – extensive site that includes amenity details and customer reviews with links for booking
• Allstays – shares campsites across the US and Canada; note the app is better than the website
• Hipcamp – listings of private RV spots and campsites, often in interesting locations with unique amenities
• Campground Views – offers detailed photos of many campsites to help you choose your favorites
• Google Earth – another fun way to check out parks, campgrounds, and local attractions before you go

If you are more of a go-with-the-flow traveler and don’t want to be beholden to reservations, boondocking (also known as dispersed camping) may be more your speed. Getting off the grid often yields more privacy and even better views, but without utility hookups. Dispersed camping requires a different kind of planning (including what you’ll do for power, water, and sewage) but can be fantastically liberating and easier on the environment. Check out the Bureau of Land Management, The Dyrt, and Boondocking.org to learn more.

Cuddling up to a view, Timber always knows how to go with the flow.

On the Road

Launch date: January 13, 2024. Which became the 14th, the 15th, then the 16th, then the 17th and 18th…throwing our best-laid plans into immediate disarray. An ice storm and sub-zero temps kept us in Colorado, waiting it out at The Residence Inn. And the early bumps continued–during our first two months on the road, we encountered heavy rains, tornado warnings, endless mud, a frozen water line, nonexistent internet service, and thickets of off-season mosquitoes. Plus we realized that, despite having carefully packed the RV, we didn’t need about a quarter of what we’d brought along. 

But bumps and problem-solving and detours are all part of the journey. As we navigated them, we were also sorting out the time and space needed for work, teaching university classes, and future travel planning. That felt a bit familiar, too: the first few months of our Wonder Year had been much the same, but with twice the people. There’s always a learning curve and things to work out when embarking on a long-term trip.

Mark and I invented a funny-not-so-funny game: “Is THIS the day we turn the corner?” Finally, we did, in New Orleans in March. We also decided to slow down our travel, canceling some stops to stay longer in other locations. It’s all gotten easier and we’re finally in a groove of better-balanced calendars, responsibilities, adventures, and rest. Here are a few tips from Wonder Year we’ve been using and would recommend to fellow travelers. 

• Stay flexible and leave space for mishaps and unexpected events. Create contingency plans in case things get really rough. Also, have insurance for the big stuff, like something happening to your RV.
• Slow down if needed, and don’t hesitate to change your itinerary if another plan will work better–it’s ok to relax your own expectations. Know cancellation policies for your bookings to help avoid penalties.
• Schedule downtime in your travels. You aren’t on vacation trying to jam-pack experiences into a week–you are living your whole life on the road. You’ll need some quieter, rest-filled days, too.
• Tap into networks to help with problem-solving. We belong to Airstream Addicts, an online group of over 80K members who can help answer almost any question about living in, maintaining, and repairing a trailer. Similar groups exist for other RV brands, plus there are social media travel groups, in-person clubs, and knowledgeable camp owners and hosts who might be able to help.
• In addition to reaching out for resources, build social connections as you travel. Join a traveling club, meet other campers for dinner, say hello to the people parked next to you, head into town to find new friends, and visit loved ones along your path. It all helps fill your tank when you don’t have roots.

Reorganizing and culling again – with RV life, less is definitely more.

Looking Ahead

We at Wonder Year are passionate about long-term travel and worldschooling–it’s an exciting evolution in how we collectively think about family life and educating our kids. Mark and I are grateful for having worldschooled and hope to bring a similar mindset to traveling as empty-nesters. We want to explore whatever this new phase holds for us and are looking forward to having time to learn and reflect while being away from the busyness of rooted life. 

We also believe that everything you do at “home” can be done when your home is an RV. Our biggest lesson has been that living simply aligns well with our values of freedom, curiosity, and gratitude. Learning and exploring alongside the people we love is a gift, curiosity fuels us and keeps us open-minded and young at heart, and the novelty of traveling seems to slow down time–all of which matter more and more the older we get.

Is there anything you hope to bring back into focus as you travel? How else do you value your time on the road?

A peaceful place to land.

The post Wonder Year 2.0 – Empty Nesting in an RV appeared first on Wonder Year Travel.

If you’re currently dreaming of doing a Wonder Year, still immersed in the planning stages, then you may not even have reentry on your

Strangely, the British Museum was a great place to wrap up our trip while waiting for our final flight home. The missing pieces from our favorite places were all right here. Lots of fodder for critical thinking skills.

radar. It might seem so far off that there’s little use in wondering how you’ll wrap it up. We’re here to tell you that many travelers find it helpful to start thinking about their return several months before they actually leave home.

Perhaps, you may plan to travel indefinitely. You plan to embrace the digital nomad lifestyle and there is no plan to reenter. Consider that circumstances may cause you to come home earlier than planned and it may be smart to have a contingency plan in place.

And if you’re currently on your Wonder Year, you may be starting to think about coming home. People end their family travel season for numerous reasons. Here are some that we’ve heard over the years while researching for our book, Wonder Year. 

• A specific date was always on the calendar
• Someone in the family is ready
• Money
• Health needs that could be better handled at home
• Needs are waiting back home: grandparents, pets, business
• A sabbatical is ending
• Time for braces (Yes, that’s more common than you think.)

Coming home is a complex event. You may have created an identity, found your groove, or decided to make some consequential changes to the way you lived before you left. As a Peace Corps Volunteer, I attended an entire three-day conference about coming home and discussed the emotions, financial repercussions, the “what next?” mental hurdles, and even the physical shifts in diet, exercise, and pace of life.

You might be debating if you can do another year, another semester, or another summer. There is so much to this decision, which is why we devoted an entire chapter of our book to it. We titled it Reentry. If you are ready to “re-enter,” then here’s a primer for you. If you want more detail, consider buying the book.

Before You Land

“Make your reentry gradual. Try not to go from treehouse living in Laos to suburban sprawl in forty-eight hours, or from RV living in Utah

A tired suitcase, held together with duct tape and love by the end or our year.

to an apartment living in Manhattan with sand still in your shoes. Instead of a direct flight home, consider driving or taking a train from the coast to a major city to help your kids visualize their unique place on this planet. You are still worldschooling, always seeing a teachable moment.” Wonder Year, page 238.

As early as possible, begin thinking through the framework to create the next chapter. This includes your career, where home will be; and schooling options for your kids. Once you know where you want to land, consider making those needed appointments with people like dentists, doctors, math tutors, movers, or accountants.

You’ll need to return to your house, buy a house, or find a rental. If you’re returning home you might arrange for a deep clean, or interior paint before you arrive so you can start with a clean slate.

Landing

Relish the fun stuff! Reuniting with pets, visiting friends and family, library, sports teams, and stocking your fridge with exactly what you want. I enjoyed many things, but high on the list was putting things in drawers and soaking in my bathtub.

“Be gentle with yourself while reconnecting with social circles. In the early days of reentry, you’re processing differently, and you’re not in sync yet. You have changed, and your friendships may rejigger themselves–some relationships may strengthen and others might wane. If you’re moving to a new place and folks know your story, you might have the awkward celebrity introduction of a Wonder Year.” Wonder Year, page 288.

Be ready for complex emotions for everyone. Some families find that their kids want to still be in close proximity for sleeping. Our tweens chose to sleep in sleeping bags in our bedroom for the first month or so. For us, it loosened up quickly, and too soon we were back to a more standard distance. 

The Months that Follow

Hold close the positives of your life on the road. It’s easy to slip back to exactly who you were without incorporating some of the new, cool stuff. For example, on the road, we watched the sun set and knew which phase of the moon we were currently in. We have tried to hold on to

Another thing we missed: homemade birthday cakes and candles.

that. We try to mark each full moon with a hike and attempt to walk dogs at sunset.

“For those kids reentering a traditional school, help them transition in the weeks before. If you feel like there were some holes in their learning, take time to evaluate that now and/or consider hiring a tutor. Reach out to old friends or, if your kids are entering a new school, ask if there’s any new student-buddy program. Having a connection can alleviate a lot of stress.” Wonder Year, page 291

Start looking at photos and printing some for the walls. Maybe make books for each family member as a gift. T-shirts from your travels can become a quilt. Think of ways to have a visible reminder of your time.

How to Keep a Worldschooling Mindset for the Long Haul

When we return to a stationary life, our mindset can still be nomadic. We can keep growing and learning, opening and adventuring, even if our pillow stays in one place. In our book, we share ideas, honed from experience. Here are a few to get you started.

• Begin to look at home as if you were seeing it for the first time. Look at the complexities, the way an outsider might view possibilities. Learn from that new lens.
• Seek out the new kids at school, the new families in town, and return the hospitality that the world showed to you. Our family learned so much about how to host and show kindness from our time on the road.
• Host an exchange student, watch foreign films, and learn a new language. In this way, you can invite the wider world into your home.
• Read our blog, “Spring Break with Returned Worldschoolers” to get some inspiration for worldschooling in shorter periods of time. The shape may change, but the open-hearted curiosity does not need to.

We hope that this post helps you feel prepared for the next step in your journey. Although you can’t plan for every contingency, you can reduce the number of surprises. Let us know how it goes for you. And for a closing thought, we hope this helps keep an eye toward the future. From Wonder Year, page 297:

“As time rolls on, you might find that your kids, now young adults, continue to identify as world citizens and carry with them a love for adventure and curiosity. Living on the road shows them that it’s okay to want a life of togetherness, simplicity, freedom, and perspectives.” 

Family Snuggle: The best part of coming home!

The post Reentry, An Important Chapter appeared first on Wonder Year Travel.

A Note on Preparing for Winter Travel

As parents, we know kids are happier when they are comfortable, and staying comfortable in cold weather takes a little extra care. Being warm is not just a matter of comfort, it is also often a matter of safety. We encourage you to think ahead and plan for your winter wardrobe, gear, transportation, accommodations, and experiences. You may encounter delays at airports or on trains or have to winterize your campervan sooner than expected. Especially if you are traveling at higher elevations, be ready for wind, snow, and a sudden drop in temperature.

As you get ready for the change of seasons, we encourage you to involve your kids in the planning and preparation. Who knew that just getting dressed on a snowy day could be a lesson in fabric technology and thermoregulation? Or that readying your rig can be a STEM lesson in fluid dynamics and systems design? Simply figuring things out as a family, with intention and time, helps transform a basic task into a rich educational adventure.

Winter Worldschooling Ideas

There are hundreds of winter activities that are inherently educational and fun. Depending on the age of your children, your manner of travel, and how much you like being exposed to the elements, you can find the right mix. Below is a starter list of wintertime experiential learning ideas categorized as 1) Outdoor Learning, 2) Indoor Adventure, 3) Worldschooling Communities, and 4) Theme-based Discovery.

New ways to go fast, with the friendliest, most enthusiastic horsepower

Winter Outdoor Learning

A Wonder Year is a great time to improve your winter skills and sports. It’s also a great time to pursue new hobbies and ventures. So, bundle up and:

• Enjoy an afternoon of sledding and building jumps. Take some time to dig into the snow, look at the layers, and see what types of snow crystals you can find.

• Spend the day ice skating on a lake or pond. Learn to measure the depth of ice and check for safety or figure out what animals or organisms live in the chilly waters below. While you’re out there, try some ice fishing.

• Check the weather forecast and learn about different types of winter storms. Here’s a great resource on winter weather from NOAA’s National Severe Storms Lab.

• Check out a dog sledding adventure and learn commands like Hike! Gee! Haw!

• Go on a winter horseback ride or a hot cocoa sleigh ride. What a special way to learn about a region!

• Build an igloo and explore other forms of winter shelters – snow caves, quinzhees, snow trenches, and drift caves. How does an igloo stay warm? How does convection transfer heat? Do people actually live in snow shelters?

• Take a winter first aid class. Learn about unique winter medical problems such as frostbite, hypothermia, and sprains from falling. Double-check your first aid kit to make sure you are prepared for all-season injuries.

• Try winter tent camping. Check out this great advice from REI.

• Learn how to build a fire in the snow. Snowshoe Magazine has this informative article on building a winter campfire.

• Track animal prints in the snow. What can you deduce about animal behavior by looking at their tracks? This US Fish and Wildlife site helps piece together the clues.

• Go birding. Often, without leaves on the trees, spotting birds is easier in the winter. Who doesn’t love hiking with binoculars? Maybe you can make bird feeders as the birds begin to return.

• Take a tour of ice and snow sculptures. While we think of ice sculptures as contemporary decorative forms, there’s a great history lesson in learning about the earliest functional uses of ice and snow sculpture.

• Visit local hot springs. Can you explain what makes hot springs hot? What is geothermal heat?

• Tap a maple tree and make syrup. What are the laws around tapping maple trees on public land? What is foraging and who is allowed to forage wild foods on public lands? Here is some information from USDA on foraging and harvesting indigenous and wild plants.

• Take a snowshoeing adventure. For the super industrious, you can try to make snowshoes and then go for a hike! Here are 10 tips from Snowshoe Magazine for making snowshoeing great fun with kids.

• Hike in the daytime or nighttime. Maybe add some spikes!

• Try Nordic Skiing! A great way to begin is on waxless cross-country skis. If you are new to the sport, a family lesson is well worth the cost. In just an hour or so, you’ll be kicking and gliding down a snowy trail together.

Cozy in the snow, lots to do in the cabin

Winter Indoor Learning

With shorter days and inclement weather, winter is also an excellent time for indoor field trips and seasonal discoveries. And because traditional school is in session, many museums and indoor venues will be less crowded and may offer discounted entrance fees. Be sure to check the hours of operation and then go wild with these indoor adventures:

• Visit a children’s museum, natural history museum, discovery center, planetarium, or science center. Look for hands-on activities to deepen the learning.

• Check the event schedule at local bookstores and libraries and take a morning to browse, read, slow down, and maybe catch a special event.

• Arrange a tour of public places like the local post office, fire department, television or radio station. Public television and radio stations support public access and welcome visitors. Call ahead and ask for the promotions manager to arrange a visit.

• Take an art class, a cooking class, or visit a makerspace. Here’s a makerspace directory to help you find places to learn, discover, and create near you!

• Learn about governmental and nonprofit organizations in your current location. You can visit the county courthouse, city hall, board of education, or historical society. There are often great exhibits and displays that are self-guided. With some advanced planning, you can also arrange to meet with an elected official.

• Visit an animal shelter and take a pup out for a walk. The Humane Society has chapters around the world, so that might be a great place to look for a meaningful outing or a volunteer opportunity.

• Find a yarn shop, pick out some beautiful yarn, and learn to knit. Maybe teddy bear gets a scarf first.

• Visit grocery stores and local markets to talk about where winter food comes from. What is local? What travels internationally? What is canned or frozen?

• Bake together. If you have access to an oven, winter is a great time to improve your baking skills. What do the locals bake? Where can you get ingredients? How about creating a metric conversion chart? Maybe you can do a little math and double the recipe then share your yummy baked goods with a neighbor or new friends?

Exploring an old mine is a great way to understand Western history

Worldschooling Communities

Many families are excited to find community on the road, and good news: there is a growing number of worldschooling and digital nomad pop-ups and hubs around the world. These are communities where traveling families connect, learn, and explore together. You can look on worldschooling Facebook pages such as Worldschoolers,  Worldschooling Central, and many others to learn about winter worldschooling gatherings.

One worldschooling hub is in Bansko, Bulgaria. Initiated in 2016 by a German entrepreneur, this gem of a city is beautifully situated at the base of the Pirin National Park and is the largest ski resort in the Balkans. “Work anywhere families” are discovering Bansko’s magic in all four seasons. There are co-working spaces, language schools, and innovative education ideas that co-evolve with the residents. Check out the Bankso Worldschooling Facebook page. Wintertime is special in Bansko for the international vibe, reasonably priced accommodations, and easy access to fantastic skiing. The annual Bansko Nomad Fest is happening in June 2024 for anyone interested in checking out this region.

The beauty of ice and light will open up the imagination!

Theme-based Winter Discovery

Another way to enrich your family’s winter learning is to pick a theme and create a learning module around it. Here are a few examples.

Say you want to explore various aspects of the Winter Solstice. You could:

• Discover how the Winter Solstice is celebrated in different cultures in both hemispheres.

• Read The Shortest Day written by Susan Cooper, illustrated by Carson Ellis. According to the author, this book is a family celebration of the light coming back after the dark threatens to take over the world. Here’s a special Picture This segment from NPR about The Shortest Day.

• Create a solstice lesson on shadows and length. Here’s an excellent resource from NASA’s Earth Observatory for Kids: All About that Tilt, Sun and Seasons. 

• Plan a Winter Solstice activity like making a snowman or baking a solstice sun bread.

Maybe winter animals could inform your family’s winter discovery. You might:

• Check out any number of documentaries about amazing animals that live in the cold weather, such as BBC’s Snow Animals series available on Amazon or the animated series Animals in Winter available for free on PBS.

• Learn some key terms such as endemic, indigenous, hibernation, cold-blooded, warm-blooded, migration, toleration, adaptation, subnivean, snag.

• Go on a ranger-led snowshoe hike to learn about winter animal behavior and try to find some tracks.

• Take a winter photo workshop/safari.

Another possible theme is winter food and nutrition exploration. You could:

• Explore local winter food traditions wherever you are.

• Study how your winter nutritional needs are different from summer nutritional needs.

• Learn how indigenous people survive the winter months. What methods do they use to preserve food, such as canning, preserving, and smoking? Here’s one example about the Susquehannock people of New York’s Finger Lakes region.

• Visit a local farmer and find out what they do in the winter.

• Take a cooking class.

• Learn to make jam or bake scones.

You could also choose a winter literary classic and build an experiential module around the themes of the book. Here are some ideas to get you started: Over and Under the Snow by Kate Messner, Red Sled by Lita Judge, and The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats. For older readers, check out Tracker by Gary Paulson, The Long Winter by Laura Ingalls Wilder, and Jack London’s Call of the Wild.

We studied ski-cology

A Personal Note from Julie:

My family chose skiing as our winter theme. As Coloradans, we look forward to winter every year. We have family traditions around the coming of winter – attending the local ski swap and going to the screening of the Warren Miller ski movie at the Boulder Theater.

As a youngster, my son was an alpine ski racer. He loved winter in the mountains so much that when he was seven he changed his middle name to “Snow.” It was only natural that when we took off for our Wonder Year a year later, we’d take a deep dive into winter worldschooling. We spent a full month in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah studying snow science, the snow sports industry, ski area sustainability, product design, and avalanche rescue. Most ski resorts in the area had a sustainability officer or Green Team who was willing to meet with us about their environmental management practices, such as recycling, composting, water and energy conservation, and wildlife protection. Mountain operations taught us about the technical side of snowmaking, and explained water supply and the strategies lift operations uses to conserve energy. The more we began to appreciate all that goes on at a ski area, the more questions we had. We learned about base area design, special use permitting, forest management, and guest relations. One area that was really exciting for us to learn about was Ski Patrol. The patrollers were so open and friendly. Johnny was particularly interested in their work with avalanche forecasting and controlling. We learned how avalanche rescue dogs are incorporated into the safety operation. (And, can I add, they are so cute!) We also toured a local ski company with zero waste operations and learned about their manufacturing processes using bamboo as an innovative material for skis.

During our winter worldschooling, we followed our passion and created a rich educational adventure at the same time. Here are a couple of tips for families who share a love of skiing:

Pro tip #1: At some resorts, kids who are good skiers can volunteer to help “sweep” the mountain at the end of the day. This includes skiing slowly down a slope,  going to the sides, and looking around to make sure there are no stranded skiers in need of assistance.

Pro tip #2: Downhill skiing can be expensive, but there are ways to make it more affordable. The industry today has mountain consortia, or groups of resorts that go in together. Skiers with these passes, such as the Epic, Ikon, or Mountain Collective, offer access to multiple resorts in the US, Europe, Japan, Chili, Argentina, Australia, and others. More locations are added each year so If you are a family that loves skiing, it might be worth taking a look at these pass options.

As long-term family travelers, we have time. So, follow your bliss. Go deeper. Unpack learning opportunities when you are doing ordinary and extraordinary things. Back home, unless it’s a “snow day,” many kids only get to spend 20 minutes outside during recess in the winter. On the road, we get a recess from that predictable routine. Traveling prompts us to notice, observe, and wonder about educational adventures buried in snow or illuminated by ice. We wish you a winter wonderland filled with fresh powder and mountains of discovery.

The post Winter Worldschooling Wonderland appeared first on Wonder Year Travel.

A Certified B Corporation, Discover Corps is a trailblazing company that understands the power of travel to make positive changes in both travelers and the communities they visit. We at Wonder Year appreciate and admire their impact and share the desire to help traveling families deepen their understanding, empathy, and connection to people and communities around the world. 

Thank you to Lynne Corvaglia, Travel Specialist, and Alex Dubois, Executive Director, for sharing your insights and perspectives. 

Please tell us how Discover Corps started. 

Founded in 2011, Discover Corps was created to harness the power of travel – aiming to foster peace by forging ties of cultural understanding between people of different cultures. We also have a social mission to protect and preserve the geographic, ecological, and cultural environments we visit.

Founded upon the core tenets of volunteer service, sustainable travel, and cultural sensitivity, Discover Corps creates experiences that resonate with travelers from all parts of the world. Embracing our shared humanity, we facilitate positive change in the people we guide and the places we travel.

Discover Corps is part of Terra Education’s portfolio of travel & education programs. We were founded as the second brand in the Terra family following the success of the Global Leadership Adventure’s teen service-learning programs. 

Can you tell us a little about your background and how you got involved with Discover Corps? 

I joined Discover Corps in 2012 shortly after it was established. Prior to this, I was living all over the world – from Poland to Germany to Australia – and, through these experiences, developed a passion for travel and all of the ways that it could be used to improve communities across the globe. Beyond this, I wanted to be involved in a business that worked as a force for good in the world. 

Discover Corps (and Terra Education) are B Corporations meaning that they have a social responsibility enshrined in their operations. With this, I helped develop Discover Corps from a small project of just two destinations to over 20 destinations that we offer today. It has been a fascinating experience meeting people and seeing places all around this big, wide, beautiful world of ours.

What kind of travelers do you serve? What kind of trips do you offer? 

Discover Corps serves a diverse range of travelers, from families and solo adventurers to couples and groups of friends. We also provide B2B trips for corporations, universities, and organizations.  Our mission is to provide meaningful travel experiences for those who seek a deeper connection with the world and have a desire to make a positive impact while exploring new cultures.

We offer a wide variety of trip options to cater to different interests and travel styles. Our programs include family-friendly adventures, volunteer opportunities, wildlife conservation projects, cultural immersion experiences, and more. Whether you’re looking for an educational journey, an adventure in nature, or a chance to give back to the communities you visit, we have a program that suits your preferences.

Our programs typically focus on destinations in Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean, and we work closely with local communities and organizations to create unique and enriching travel experiences.

What are the educational opportunities you offer for kids and adults on your trips? 

At Discover Corps, we believe that travel is one of the most powerful educational experiences for both kids and adults. Our trips are designed to be immersive and educational, offering a wide range of opportunities for learning. For kids, our trips provide a chance to explore new cultures, learn about wildlife conservation, and engage in hands-on activities that foster a sense of curiosity and discovery. They might participate in interactive workshops, visit local schools, or even take part in community service projects. 

For adults, our trips offer opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of the world through interactions with local experts, cultural immersion experiences, and educational excursions to historical sites or natural wonders. Our trips often include guided discussions and workshops on topics like environmental conservation, sustainable tourism, and local traditions.

Both kids and adults have the chance to connect with local communities, fostering a sense of global citizenship and empathy. We believe that these educational experiences can have a lasting impact, broadening perspectives and inspiring a commitment to responsible travel.

We know that the impact of travel is very important to you. Can you tell us about how your trips and partnerships impact communities, the environment, and wildlife? 

Every Discover Corps itinerary is designed around a unique purpose that connects travelers to local communities in a meaningful way and gives a deeper understanding of a unique and extraordinary part of the world. And it is the local organizations, projects, and inspiring local leaders that bring these experiences to life. Throughout the world, Discover Corps seeks partners that are involved in a range of causes and missions that work to improve their communities, local wildlife, and the world as a whole.

These partnerships are the heart of the Discover Corps experience. Not only do they provide you with a rich, completely unique behind-the-scenes experience, but also allow you to see the world through a different lens – one that you may carry with you long after the trip. Your decision to travel with Discover Corps has ripple effects across these communities supporting these organizations and projects financially and creating advocates for change. Regardless of the destination, all of our trips will impact not only the communities we visit, but you and your family in a positive way.

Discover Corps has a different idea about family travel. How do you differentiate yourself from other travel companies?

Our trips are designed around people, communities, and projects that reflect our commitment to inspiring our travelers to explore and do good across the globe. Many of these partnerships we’ve carried for over a decade (and sometimes even longer via our sister organization Global Leadership Adventures). These unique connections allow for an experience that is completely unrivaled – taking our travelers behind the scenes and a layer deeper into the places that we visit. We’ve realized that this resonates well with families not only because it leads to a richer travel experience, but also because it forms irreplaceable bonds between parents and their children. 

Beyond this, we specifically work with small, boutique properties around the world that allow for a diverse, yet comfortable experience. We offer children’s pricing on all of our trips and design our dates so that they specifically fall over school holidays. Our guides, the heartbeat of our organization, are some of the best family-friendly hosts out there. In short, we tailor each aspect of our trip to help create a memorable experience for families looking to go beyond the norm.

Can you tell us a little bit about the pricing and logistics of your programs? 

Our trips vary in pricing and logistics depending on the destination and the duration of the trip. The best way to obtain detailed information about a specific program is to request an itinerary or check out our catalog and pricing online. In most cases (with some exceptions such as for Galapagos and Uganda), it costs only $395 to reserve a spot on one of our trips. Full payment for your trip is due 30 days after booking or 60 days prior to departure if you are on an interest-free payment plan where your balance gets stretched out but must be paid in full 60 days prior to departure.

Once you sign up for a trip, our dedicated pre-departure team, specializing in the country you are visiting, will assist you in preparing for your trip. They provide resources such as visa recommendations, packing lists, arrival and departure times, and more. Upon your arrival at your destination, we will pick you up from the airport and take care of you for the duration of your trip. All of our trips are locally guided, meaning you will have a local bilingual guide throughout the entire trip who can help you delve deeper and provide education about the area. Our guides are the heart and soul of our trips. Our packages include 3-5 star accommodations, most meals, local transportation, and activities. International airfare is not included, but we have a flight partner that can assist in booking flights. If there are local flights in the itinerary, we include a supplement fee, but we handle the coordination on your behalf. Additionally, all of our trips include medical insurance and emergency evacuation insurance.

What are some of your most popular destinations right now? Why do you think families are drawn to these places?  

Our most popular destinations right now include Costa Rica and Thailand. Families are drawn to these places for several reasons. In Costa Rica, it’s the stunning biodiversity and eco-adventures that create the perfect backdrop for family bonding and learning about conservation efforts. In Thailand, the vibrant culture, friendly locals, and diverse landscapes make it a top choice for families seeking both cultural enrichment and relaxation. Additionally, spending time at a reputable elephant sanctuary is often a highlight for many.

Overall, families are increasingly seeking vacations that offer a balanced mix of education, adventure, and cultural immersion, and these destinations align perfectly with those desires. Our programs in these locations are tailored to cater to multigenerational families, ensuring a meaningful and enjoyable experience for everyone.

What makes you most proud about Discover Corps?   

What makes us most proud at Discover Corps is the positive impact we have on both travelers and the communities we visit. Seeing our travelers return with a deeper understanding of the world, a stronger sense of empathy, and a commitment to sustainable travel is incredibly rewarding.

We take pride in our partnerships with local organizations and communities, which allow us to contribute to meaningful, long-lasting change in the places we visit. From supporting local schools to supporting wildlife conservation efforts, we believe in responsible tourism that benefits both our travelers and the destinations they explore

Additionally, our dedicated team and the testimonials from our satisfied travelers are a constant source of pride and motivation for us. We’re committed to making each Discover Corps journey a transformative and unforgettable experience. We love having a family come back with incredible stories and memories that will last a lifetime. 

Is there anything else you want to share? 

Since the age of 13, I’ve been exploring the world, immersing myself in the rich tapestry of diverse cultures and customs. From the bustling streets of India to the majestic landscapes of Kenya, Ghana, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Brazil, Guatemala, and more, my travels have gifted me with a profound appreciation for the beauty of our global community. I am originally from Ontario, Canada, but I now call Turrialba, Costa Rica, my home. By day, I serve as a travel specialist for Discover Corps, where I have the privilege of helping you fellow adventurers embark on unforgettable journeys!

In the background, I’m also a proud co-owner of Wearsos, a social enterprise dedicated to reducing waste, boosting rural economies, and creating spaces for education and empowerment. We work magic by upcycling discarded Southwest Airlines seats in rural Costa Rica, offering employment opportunities to women in remote areas while crafting unique, sustainable products such as purses, backpacks, etc.

That is also why I love working for Discover Corps so much, a company that shares my passion for making a positive impact on the world. I love the way they support sustainable tourism all around the world which helps support communities doing incredible work! So if you’re as passionate about travel, culture, and sustainable living as I am, let’s connect! Whether you’re seeking travel tips, inspiration, or just a friendly chat about our trips, I’m here to share.

We hope this proves to be a great resource for you when planning your Wonder Year. We know we’re inspired!

Check out their website to learn more or request a catalog.

www.discovercorps.com

Follow Discover Corps

@discovercorps

The post Community Connectors: Discover Corps appeared first on Wonder Year Travel.

My good friend, Annika Paradise recently co-authored a travel book, and we got to talking about packing and specifically packing shoes for travel. I’m a stylist and I often help clients pack for their trips with a curated travel capsule that takes the guesswork out of packing and what to wear on their trip. Annika is an expert in long-term family travel and we discovered that we are both frequently asked about packing and specifically what shoes to pack for travel. This post covers the only three pairs of shoes you need to pack for a trip of any length.

Annika co-wrote, Wonder Year: A Guide To Long-Term Family Travel and Worldschooling, along with two other travel experts, Julie Frieder and Angela Heisten. Their book is part inspiration and part “how-to” for those who’ve ever considered long term travel with their family. They break down everything, from how to fund your trip to recommended destinations to how to teach your kids on the road. Wonder Year has something for all types of travelers so be sure to order your copy today. My readers can use discount code: DAISYTRAVEL for 20% off.

In Annika’s case, she and her husband took their three children around the world for a year and they packed light! In our friendship, she’s the practical one and I have been known to prioritize fashion over function. What a pleasant surprise to find out that we both agreed that you can get away with only packing three pairs of shoes for even an entire year of travel! 

Here are my fashion-approved (and her practicality-approved) recommendations for the three pairs of shoes to pack for travel.

Of course, the exact style depends on the locations and the time of year, but these three types of shoes will work no matter what. Reducing the number of shoes you pack is an essential part of packing light because shoes are relatively heavy and bulky. Try to stick to these three shoe styles the next time you pack.

#1: Sneakers

An athletic shoe is essential. Annika would say it’s practical, but Daisy the stylist has some ideas to make sure you look great, too. My clients often tell me, “I don’t want to look like an American Tourist.” Sneakers, these days, are stylish, straddling the line between comfort and fashion statement. These shoes will ensure you look great no matter where you go – even if you are staying in the U.S.

New Balance are my top pick for travel because they have character and are fashionable while still providing comfort. Adidas are a classic choice and Europeans love them. PS448 are on the expensive end, but are also incredibly comfortable and the “it” sneaker of the moment. Soludos Ibiza are a classic choice and very versatile. And the most practical option is On Cloud since they work for walking and running/working out, and are light as air.

Comfort and camouflage

#2: Sandals

There is a big range of styles when it comes to a sandal. If you’re like Annika, you’ll want these as almost a “slipper” option and opt for a comfortable Birkenstock style. If you’re like me, you’ll want a classic leather sandal that you can dress up or down. And depending on the type of trip this might be where you opt for a heel like a clog sandal or wedge.

Vionic are my top pick because the arch support is incredible. If you have ever tried on a pair I’m sure you bought them instantly. If you know, you know. Sorel’s Ella II sandals are lightweight, fold up in your luggage and can look both dressy and casual. I am a big fan of a flat strappy sandal for travel and these Boden scarf wrap sandals are like two pairs in one because the leather straps can be swapped out with the included patterned scarf straps – adorable! And for the most practical traveler, the Teva sandal is the best option in terms of comfort, weight and price.

#3 Boots

Unless you are going on a summer boat trip or someplace tropical, you should always pack a pair of boots (in the case of a tropical or boat vacation, pack another pair of sandals or flats for your third pair). 

The Blundstone Chelsea boot is my favorite boot of all time – not just for travel! It’s classic, comfortable and perfect year round. If your trip will involve a lot of hiking, then the Danner Mountain 600 is a great choice. As a stylist I think these boots are also great-looking (love those classic red laces) and can also be worn when you’re not on the trail. If your itinerary has you visiting several cities, I suggest the Born Verona boot. It’s classic and a bit edgy but still very comfortable and versatile. And if you want your boots to serve as a dressier option for your travels then try the Sarah Flint Perfect Zip Bootie. These are an investment shoe, but they are simply stunning and will last a decade. The functional winners are these Cole Haan waterproof boots – I love the modern platform sneaker sole – which are practical and very cool.

Reducing the number of shoes you pack is an essential part of packing light, so try to stick to these three shoe styles the next time you pack and if you’re traveling by air, try to wear the bulkiest pair on the plane to save room in your suitcase. The few minutes of taking them off to go through security is worth the extra space.

Stay tuned for more joint ventures between The Daisy Edit and Wonder Year. We both send regular newsletters that are geared toward our respective audiences. Please sign up for one or both, if you haven’t already. 

The Daisy Edit Newsletter

Wonder Struck Monthly Newsletter

Collaboration over travel, shoes, and remembering how fun it can all be

The post Three Shoes for One Trip appeared first on Wonder Year Travel.

When you think about all that’s needed to do, it can be daunting! But it doesn’t need to be. This post will give you the basic buckets, or categories, of things to consider. 

Where do I start when packing for long-term travel?

Some families have a year or more to plan for their Wonder Year. Others who are prompted by circumstance or a wild hair will have a shorter runway. Either way, closing up life at home is doable. 

You may have heard of the concept of “chunking.” It’s a common technique used for people with ADHD. Begin by dividing the big projects into bite-sized chunks. Then you can go from overwhelm to a systematic approach. One approach to chunking is to delegate. You could parse out tasks between partners or kids. Maybe you have the budget to hand over some tasks to a travel agent or RV consultant. Another chunking approach is to make a master to-do list and then separate it by time horizon. For example, you can organize your tasks into things that need to happen in the final week, final month, two months before launch, three months ahead, or even 6-12 months out. For me, it worked better when I planned backwards. Once I got a concrete list of things that could get done six months out, I could begin. 

We have a comprehensive list in our book, but here is a sample of the types of things you can categorize by time horizon. If you are leaving for a month or less, it will look different. If you have just three-months time, your timeline will be consolidated.

Six months or more from launch

• If you have pets, start thinking through your options for their care. It’s such a sensitive topic that we wrote a whole post on it.  
• We recommend giving a trusted friend or family member Power of Attorney. This person can sign tax or other legal documents, receive bank cards, sign leases, and handle other unforeseen tasks that might arise. Start thinking through who that might be.
• If you own your home, look for your property manager or real estate agent. (More on this below.)
• Begin to declutter. Perhaps create a fun-money account where you can deposit the proceeds from the sale of your stuff.

Three months out

• Take stock of your recurring payments and be ready to stop the ones you can.
• Make sure important payments are set up on auto-pay.
• Decide what comes with you and what gets stored.
• Sell and donate the stuff you don’t need.

Last month at home

• Decide where your vehicles are going.
• Depending on your car decision, cancel insurance.
• Cancel your utility bills.
• Spend time with your extended family and close friends!

Again, there’s more to consider, but we hope this starter list gets the wheels turning and you begin to see how to get your arms around preparing for long-term family travel. 

What do I do with my home when preparing for long-term travel?

If you’re renting, closing up life at home is a bit easier. Of course you need to give your landlord notice within the agreed upon time horizon. Then you can separate what stays and what goes before you begin decluttering and packing the rest into storage.

If you own, will you sell or rent? Short-term or long-term? Do you need a real estate agent or property manager, or do you have a trusted friend or family who can tackle those tasks? Can you store your things in your basement or do you need to find a storage facility in a less expensive town?

One family we met along the way saved for ten years to buy a big house. They had thought they wanted to have many kids, so they began to fill it. Then one day, circumstances changed, and they decided to downscale both the house and their big-family-plan to just two kids. They sold their house and traveled off of their earned interest plus a small chunk of the principal. When they returned, they purchased a smaller house that cost just the right amount for their family. 

How do I get my kids involved in closing up life at home?

Ah! We’ve got you covered here, too. This post helps get them involved in planning.

Walking out the door

Once one door closes, another world can open to you. For Wonder Year families, this is where the fun really takes off. I hope you have that giddy, butterflies–in-the-stomach feeling. You did it! Now, how will you begin to plan for your time on the road? Read this post for ideas on how to choose your destinations.

We hope this post helps you begin to see how closing up life at home can be done. Our goal is to demystify this process. That’s why we offer this and other posts to help you get out there! Oh, and we’ve also written a whole book that will give you everything you need to know.

…because once you’re packed up, you ready to go!

The post Closing Up Life at Home appeared first on Wonder Year Travel.

Using the world as a classroom is a fantastic way to teach your kids. But leaping into long-term family travel and worldschooling requires courage and conviction. Sometimes you need inspiration to help you believe that leaving (almost) everything behind could be totally worth it. Or, you might be in the dreaming stage, not yet ready or able to launch but longing to explore from home and immerse yourself in stories of what is possible.

360 Degrees Longitude: One Family’s Journey Around the World by John Higham

The OG of worldschooling memoirs, 360 Degrees Longitude: One Family’s Journey Around the World was released in 2009, years before e-readers caught on and trip planning was done via apps. Author John Higham and his wife September began planning their trip ten years before leaving their comfortable Bay Area life for an around-the-world adventure. This memoir is the story of their journey and an inspiring must-read for others hoping to travel long term with their family, too.

Higham brings the reader along chronologically on a trip spanning 12 months, 24 time zones, and 28 countries. Engaging and funny, he couples anecdotes with thoughtful descriptions of destinations and the people his family meets along the way. His two children, Katrina, 11, and Jordan, 8, when their trip begins, are always in the loop–helping choose destinations and plan adventures. Designed partially as a biking trip across Europe, a playground accident in Switzerland leaves Katrina with a broken leg. The family nimbly adjusts to this and a series of other misadventures that Higham never shies away from sharing with would-be travelers. Entries from the kids’ journals round out his story, as does John’s innovative use of Google Earth, which allows readers to access photos and videos of destinations the Highams visited across the globe. Clever (or, using John’s term, “stupid”) facts at the end of the book punctuate the experience.

360 Degrees Longitude helped lay the groundwork for what it means to be a citizen of the world. Highlighting what their family learned along the way, the author shows it’s possible to navigate almost anything when they’re doing it together. As Higham shares in his introductory message, he wrote the book to “take you to distant lands and meet the people who live over there to show that, at the end of the day, humankind in all its wonderful weirdness is the same all over the planet.”

The World is Our Classroom: How One Family Used Nature and Travel to Shape and Extraordinary Education by Cindy Ross

Ross, a lifelong writer, began worldschooling her kids in the ’90s. The term worldschooling was either extremely niche or nonexistent, but her interactions with her children and the world define the term organically. She began by spending time in nature and in the garden with her very young kids, wondering together before Google could explain. They spent summers hiking the Continental Divide with toddlers and llama support, learned American history by riding a Conestoga wagon along the Oregon Trail, and even partnered with local naturalists for their science lessons. The notion of learning from participation with the world grew naturally from these experiences. Her chapters have titles like “Learning from Play,” “Learning from International Travel” and “Learning about Values and Priorities.” Each chapter is full of anecdotes and ends with a section called “Nuts and Bolts” to outline how to get it done. 

This book outlines how worldschooling looked before online education and screens were a thing. There are thousands of ideas to inspire you if you want less time on tech. Ross and her husband also kept their kids in public schools and supplemented their education incrementally with long stretches in the American wilderness and in more than 12 countries.

The memoir has the strength of perspective. Ross’ children are now in their late 20s, and the book weaves the roots of their current passions into the narrative. Sierra and Bryce (also the illustrator) each have several pages at the end where they sum up their childhood in their own words. These words by Sierra, as she describes her current work in environmental stewardship, particularly struck me. She says, ” [Experiential education] is a cycle whereby we become informed about the world by participating in it, and with this knowledge are both empowered and gain the tools to change it.”

How to Be a Family: The Year I Dragged My Kids Around the World to Find A New Way To Be Together by Dan Kois

So many parents are pressured by and face tough questions about modern-day work, “screen age” parenting, and the realization that life is short. But it takes a moment of awakening or some sort of existential shake-up to pull up stakes and get out of one’s bubble. Dan Kois, his wife Alia, and daughters Harper and Lyra did just that. In search of greater connection and meaning, they set out on a global family adventure that took them to New Zealand, the Netherlands, Costa Rica, and rural small-town America in Hayes, Kansas. How to Be a Family is an honest, hilarious, and heartfelt account of the experience of togetherness through the fantastic and the mundane, the gorgeous and the gross.

The raw and accessible quality of this book invites readers into the metaphor of life as a journey. We feel the Kois family dynamics, their vulnerabilities and victories. Anyone who has experienced long-term family travel might chuckle throughout, knowing exactly how it feels to be tumbled into a family unit while living outside of your comfort zone. But whether or not you have taken a trip around the world, How to Be a Family is a good read, a parenting odyssey that will entertain, inspire, and challenge you to think about your parenting style and family culture. Many parents want their kids to feel engaged and connected and have agency in their own lives. Travel is empowering that way. Kois captures it beautifully when he writes, “…and the thing I love most about this trip is the way that moments from this year are already becoming family lore, retold by children who are finally old enough to contribute to their own tales.”

How to Become a Family reminds us that sometimes the best adventure is the one where we’re simply together with family and friends.

We Came, We Saw, We Left by Charles Wheelan

We Came, We Saw, We Left is a fascinating story about one family’s experiment in taking a gap year. Intelligent and full of charm, the Wheelan family solves one problem after another and strings together nine months of adventure, mishaps, deep learning, and togetherness. An economist, professor, and author, Charles Wheelan also has a way with storytelling, especially when it comes to acquainting you with the idiosyncrasies and proclivities of his three kids. Many readers will feel inspired to start planning their own family gap year after reading We Came, We Saw, We Left. Others may be spooked and instead plant a garden. 

This travel memoir offers a great job of portraying the imperfections and improvisations that go along with long-term family travel. For example, day 10 for Team Wheelan was marked by a lost pair of kiddos in Medellin, Colombia. On the verge of panic, Charles and his partner, Leah, held their breath and resisted accusation while they waited on the metro platform for that text to come, which it eventually did. Buoyed by reunion and a round of beverages, the family recounted their errors: “Over dinner, we reviewed our ‘rookie mistakes’: taking the metro at rush hour; not making sure we all knew the stop; not having a plan if we were separated; not giving enough money to Katrina for a taxi; and so on.” Overcoming a mega-obstacle early on, talking about it, and learning from it together, gave the family confidence. They recounted, “Maybe we would be able to pull off this crazy adventure travel thing after all.”  

We Came, We Saw, We Left draws you into the rhythm of the road–into spaces where kids don’t go off to school and parents don’t go off to work. It shows that on a family gap year, things get mixed up at the edges while bonds of togetherness grow stronger around every unexpected turn. 

While there are many other worldschooling memoirs out there, these first four will get you started. Full of inspiration, perspective, poignancy, and humor, they might just be a litmus test for you: Could this lifestyle be for me? Is it something I want to do for a summer? A year? Or, perhaps I’m selling everything to buy a one-way ticket? 

All of these books are available as e-books at Bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, or Amazon. There’s still time for a great summer read! And if these whet your worldschooling appetite and you need help figuring out what to do next, you can check out our book, too. 

The post Four Worldschooling Memoirs to Get Your Wheels Turning appeared first on Wonder Year Travel.