Carry on.
As in hand luggage.
As in, “Go on, continue sharing your story, I’m listening.”
As in, “Keep going, you’ve got this.”
A short phrase, but one that encompasses so much—travel and mental health and connection all tangled up together, as is so often the case for me.
I’ll be honest: I’m here because I’m tired of reading travel recommendations from writers who don’t know how it feels to navigate the world as a neurodivergent person or as a part of the queer community.
Don’t get me wrong, those writers are doing a great service for the rest of the world. But realistically, their recommendations aren’t going to help someone like me plan a safe or enjoyable trip anytime soon.
I know plenty of other queer and neurodivergent travelers who have been on a similar quest to find travel inspiration and advice from trusted resources within our communities too, trying to figure out which destinations are safe for them to visit and what to do when they get there.
And recently it dawned on me that, Oh, shit—as a bisexual AuDHD travel writer, this might actually be my purpose.
To be the reassuring friend that can show other queer and neurodivergent travelers that there are welcoming and safe spaces all over the world for them to explore, whether they follow along from the comfort of home or from out on the road.
To offer opportunities for connection to those who might otherwise feel isolated or marginalized during their travels, and to serve as a reminder that they are not alone.
To create a space where the wanderlust of the LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent communities can be seen, heard, and celebrated.
And most importantly: To build a more inclusive, diverse, and accessible travel community around the world.
Whether you opt for a free or paid subscription, I hope you’ll join me. Let’s do this.