When I tell people I’m a conscious travel coach, the first question inevitably arises in some way or another: “What the heck is that?” In this article, I’ll explain what it is, what it isn’t, and what it looks like to work with a travel coach. By the end of this post, you’ll have a deeper understanding of what we do here at Lotus Compass and why we do it. Let’s dive in!

A travel coach is…

Think of a travel coach as your personal guide on the inner and outer journey. Travel can be the perfect opportunity for self discovery. For centuries, people have traveled to faraway lands in search of something deeper…determined to find some hidden truth that must be uncovered. Even in today’s modern world, many of us still feel a deep longing to go on a meaningful quest to uncover who we really are and to better understand life. 

This journey of awakening through travel can be greatly aided by someone who’s a little further down the path of self discovery.  A conscious travel “coach” helps you on your way, giving you the tools and advice you need to set off on your journey. 

The word “conscious” in the title suggests that this endeavor is done with awareness and intentionality. 

“You cannot travel the path before you have become the path itself.” – Buddha 

Working with a travel coach is less focused on ‘where’ and ‘what’ and more geared toward ‘why’ and ‘how’. 

What is covered in a session?

In a session, we cover many aspects of your upcoming trip from preparation all the way to integration upon returning home. 

Prepare

We co-create your trip together. This process includes finding your “why” for the trip, deepening your understanding of the destination, and practicing mindfulness and meditation. Each of these will bring incredible value to your trip and your life in general. 

From there, we go over planning and logistics. While most coaches in the travel industry do not cover planning and logistics, I feel an obligation to cover this as well because it’s a huge part of the experience! A trip is only as good as the preparation, and learning how to properly prepare for a trip will give you the freedom to be spontaneous as well, which always makes for a great travel story in my opinion! 

Expand 

This is the how element of your journey, and it’s super important! You’ll learn how to slow down and travel like a local, a huge aspect of conscious traveling. Your Lotus Compass travel coach will share ancient yet always relevant practices and advice on how to use travel as a means to awaken and live fully. This area of your travel coaching consists of practices you can implement on the road to ensure your trip is transformational, insightful, and meaningful. 

Integrate

Lastly, you’re able to work on integrating all the amazing things you experienced and insights you’ve gained. This will allow a smooth transition to your life back home, which can be rather difficult for new and seasoned travelers alike. 

What do people usually get wrong about travel coaches?

Travel coaching services across the industry have varied services and offerings. For that reason, I can only speak to what Lotus Compass is doing – or not doing 😉 

For us, travel coaches ARE NOT:

1. Travel agents. We do not make hotel, restaurant, activity, etc. reservations. Instead, we give you the tools to travel better.
2. Spiritual gurus. We don’t do the “work” for you. You’ve gotta be willing to dive into your inner journey.
3. Therapists. We don’t have all the answers to your problems. We help you find the wisdom within yourself. 

Where can I go with a travel coach? 

We currently specialize in guiding travelers as they prepare for pilgrimage like the Camino de Santiago in Spain. This is an incredible start to anyone who is ready for a meaningful journey. Plus, it’s safe, affordable, and life-changing in so many ways. 

With that being said, we also have limited availability for 1-on-1 sessions for ANYWHERE in the world. If you want to travel consciously, reach out to us!

P.S. – If you’re looking to walk the Camino de Santiago, the best time to start preparing is NOW! Email us directly or sign up for our newsletter to keep up-to-date on the latest travel new