Sacred Journeys: Travelling as a spiritual person

Travel is adventure. A chance to explore new places, cultures and landscapes. But for those who walk a spiritual path, travel becomes something much deeper—a sacred journey of connection, intuition and reverence – holding space for that which was before you. When we move through the world with intention, we recognise that every land holds a different energy and every journey carries meaning and therefore, every experience we have is an opportunity to listen to the universe and gain something that cannot be touched or tasted but felt.

Greeting the land
Arriving in a new place is more than just stepping into a different physical location—it is entering the spirit of the land itself. As a spiritual traveller, it is important to greet the land with respect and acknowledgment and to ask for protection from any negativity while there. We usually hear of people kissing the earth when they arrive in Africa for example, however, greeting the land can be done in different ways such as touching the land and saying a simple prayer or going to a nearby body of water (river or beach) and saying a simple, earnest prayer before doing any other activities.

Looking out for signs 
The earth, universe, spirit guides whatever you call it (or whatever resonates) often communicate with us, but it takes awareness to recognise these messages. When travelling, be mindful of synchronicities—those meaningful coincidences that seem to guide you. 

Pay attention to:

• Animal encounters and their symbolism*
  
• Repeating numbers or symbols that appear in unexpected places
  
• Sudden intuitive feelings or thoughts that seem to arise from nowhere.
  
• People that you randomly seem to connect with or those that impart messages of wisdom.

*NOTE: It is not as simple as googling, 'raven animal meaning or totem' for example to find out what the symbolism is as this can bring confusion – you have to feel or meditate on what you think the animal represents as this is personal to you.

Noting down or journalling your experiences during your trip can help you reflect on patterns and insights that emerge. Trust that the places you are drawn to and the experiences that unfold are not random—they hold meaning and lessons for you.

Do what feels good..or not
One of the most important aspects of traveling spiritually is learning to trust your intuition. Sometimes, a place may look beautiful and inviting, but something feels “off.” If you feel discomfort, heaviness, or a strong urge to leave a place, trust that instinct and leave.  This may be the energy of past events, unseen forces or simply a case of energetic incompatibility with your own vibration.

For instance, on my recent trip to Mexico, I visited a cenote. And while many visitors decided to jump into the underground cavern. Before I left the hotel, I got a sense not to go in the water. When we arrived, the feeling came on much stronger as I descended down to the steps towards the sinkhole and as a result – I did not go into the sinkhole. As I looked around and took some photographs, I noticed that there were several black catfish in the corner away from the people. I then understood the symbolism of not going in the water as catfish within my own spiritual practice is forbidden in any form.

Other times, you may feel an unexplainable sense of peace and comfort within a space - when you feel welcomed and at ease, take that as a sign that the land or the energies around are good and are embracing you.

Many places we travel to hold deep spiritual significance. Whether it’s an ancient temple, a sacred mountain, or even a quiet, untouched forest, honouring these spaces are essential. 
Some people show gratitude by giving an offering in these spaces however, if this is something that you don’t know how to do – don’t do it.  Spirituality can sometimes be technical and we don’t know how these energies, whether good or bad will manifest in your life following your visit. Try simple things such as treading lightly on the land and leaving places as you found them. Follow the local customs and traditions – if you don’t get it, take the time to learn and follow them as this shows deep respect.

Final thoughts
Traveling as a spiritual person isn’t all doom and gloom or rigid. It is a way of engaging with the world in a way that is mindful, intuitive and deeply meaningful. By greeting the land, staying open to signs, trusting our instincts and honouring sacred spaces, we turn travel into an energetic exchange— one that enriches not only our personal growth, but also our relationship with the earth and the unseen forces that guide us.

Safe travels on your sacred journey.