SALT Shop: EXPLORE | What Way to Wander

"Do not go where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail". -Ralph Waldo Emerson

When we hear the word "explorer", we might think of the European men we learned about in our social studies classes who sailed across the oceans and "discovered" new lands. Let's leave the images of the cocked naval hats behind and reclaim the title for ourselves (or at least share it).

Setting aside time to stretch your legs and see new places shouldn't be as hard as we make it seem. We get that we don't all have the budget to go on a vacation every month (life goals!); there are other ways to go about it. You can walk the same streets or paths you have been on many times without really exploring. We need to get our noses out of our screens and take a look around.

While we argue that there is oodles of space for adventure around us all the time, sometimes we do crave an excursion that shakes up our scenery. For those slightly longer travels, you don't have to go all out and cutting costs doesn't have to mean cutting down your enjoyment. You have to be prepared and get creative.

Travel Fund: It is as easy as picking out a jar and putting your loose change in it. You could put away $500 without even thinking about it. Or, set up a monthly contribution to your TFSA, anything you can afford from as little as $25. It adds up quickly!
Stay Nearby: Take out a map of your area, and pick a place that you have never been, (or even one you have) that is only a few hours away. Make your way there and really get to know it.
Free Activities: Always research the free activities that could be going on anywhere you travel. Live air concerts, free tours, flea markets. You never know!
Save on Accommodations: Crash with friends, go in the off seasons, or stay at lesser known hotel chains or independent hotels.
Pack Snacks: Eating out for every meal can be a big part of the cost of being away. Plan ahead with snacks that don't need to be refrigerated like mixed nuts, fruit, or power balls.
Ask the Locals: This is a good strategy anywhere, but it can also be applied at home. Even when you think you have exhausted everything your home town has to offer, we're willing to bet there is a trail, a shop, an event you haven't uncovered yet. Ask your local friends, utilize their networks, and collect recommendations.

Exploring can mean something different to everyone. Visiting a new place every year. Getting outside with mud and rocks under our boots. Losing yourself in the twisting plot of a well written novel. What about self-exploration? The kind of exploring we can't see. Diving deep into our pool of self is not without it's harrowing challenges. Sometimes things have to break down a little bit to make way for better things. It is not an expedition that should be taken lightly. It is also one that is just as important, if not more, than our physical explorations, and should not be ignored. We commend all who dare to face their toughest critics: themselves