A marker of dedication, perseverance and comradeship, pilgrimages are one of few ancient traditions that continue to prosper today. While traditionally used for religious purposes, such as to Mecca to see the birthplace of Prophet Mohammed or across Southern Europe as part of the Camino de Santiago, pilgrimages can be more simply defined as an odyssey to a specific destination. The act of journeying with a physical or spiritual destination in mind can offer a unique perspective on travel.

Wabi-sabi has become an artform in Japan and across the world, with its concept of “flawed beauty” adhering to our ever-evolving global landscape. The phrase is characterised by the acceptance and appreciation of imperfection, impermanence and incompletion. Travel isn’t always a carousel of exciting discoveries but accepting what you cannot change and seeking beauty in the details can help to re-shape these experiences. 

Metta or maitrī (“friend”) was taught by Buddha 2,600 years ago and is consistently practiced in the Himalayan region of Asia. The term derives from the ‘divine abidings’: a meditation technique encouraging compassion for oneself, others and the environment. Metta encompasses universal love and appreciation, which could be used during your travels to inspire a sense of gratitude.

Ever sampled the cafés of Scandinavia? Loosely translating as “coffee and cake break”, the Swedish phrase “fika” is about carving out time each day to re-connect with loved ones. Perhaps you can add fika to your daily itinerary, allowing you to bond with fellow travellers and reflect on your journey thus far.

Ubuntu differs across Africa but is centred on the act of supporting each other to achieve spiritual growth. The term stems from the Nguni phrase “Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu” meaning “a person is a person through other persons”. While travel is all about finding ourselves, it is also about human connection, as described by Nelson Mandela:

“Ubuntu does not mean that people should not enrich themselves. The question therefore is: Are you going to do so in order to enable the community around you to be able to improve?”

Why not combine your next adventure with a stay in one of the above destinations? IRAPH SUI, A Luxury Collection Hotel in Miyako Okinawa, is situated in one of the world’s Blue Zone regions and a place where wabi-sabi is part of daily life. Or head to Alila Fort Bishangarh, Jaipur to practice metta while immersed in nature and five-star luxury. Explore our full hotel offering on ASMALLWORLD Collection.