Travel with purpose: What it’s like to take a holiday that fulfils a mission
My Great Wall of China trek for MS
Recently, I had the pleasure of travelling with ethical tourism company Soulful Concepts as a tour leader to the Great Wall of China.
The Walk the Wall to Fight MS challenge had two teams travel to China in September and October, who have raised more than $147,000 so far, to support people living with multiple sclerosis (MS).
Most of these travellers signed up for the trip more than a year ago. They held fundraisers such as bake sales, charity lunches, online auctions and Bunnings barbecues to reach a personal fundraising target of $3,500.
They then trained and prepared for the five-day trek along the Great Wall of China, a Wonder of the World.
It’s a genuine commitment people take on when signing up to this type of trip because it requires time, effort and dedication.
It was a privilege to travel with these participants who had worked so hard to experience this famous part of China, but also to see the connections that like-minded people share when they come together for a common cause.
Personally, I’ve taken on four of these challenges, so I was well versed in the journey involved in these adventures.
Over the years I’ve fundraised more than $20,000 for causes close to my heart and taken on challenges including climbing Mt Kilimanjaro in Africa, hiking to Machu Picchu in Peru, trekking to Everest Base Camp and walking among the epic Himalayas of Bhutan.
It’s about working hard, raising awareness for a cause you care deeply about and then taking on a challenge with people who share your values.
Travelling with purpose not only gives you a unique experience, it’s also a wonderful way to see the world while fulfilling a mission that is greater than yourself.
TELL US: Have you taken a trip with purpose? What are your tips for fulfilling a mission when travelling? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
