Where are you from?

I am from Germany

When did you start your interest in exploration?

During my geography studies and the excursions - spending multiple days in nature and deeply understanding how landscapes are shaped and how this on the other hand influences our daily lives encouraged me to explore even more!

What is a brief understanding of your background story up until you started seeking adventure?

Honestly, I haven't done crazy travels until I was in my mid 20ies. But my studies with a focus on natural risk gave me a lot of insights to understand the landscapes around me. After finishing my Masters degree, I first thought I'll pursue a scientific career, but it turned out that I have way more fun being the storyteller than the analyst. So I activated my old passion for art and design and became a freelance graphic designer and illustrator for environmental topics. The freedom of doing this work also while being outside in the field sparked the idea of actually taking my profession out on the road. 

What special skills do you have to help with your explorations?

The most important one is the audacity to think I'm able to learn everything when I really want to! (Or let's call it stubbornness ;)) Another one would be to connect with people. 

I'm entirely self taught in my profession as an illustrator, restored the old Land Cruiser with the help of family and friends (and zero previous knowledge) and am currently learning how to professionally document geographical topics with videography - so I would say the most important skill you need is not to take 'no' for an answer and find your way through and around obstacles that are in between you and your dreams. Even if it might take a while!

Where have you explored so far?

After my Master degree I travelled over land with public transport from Uzbekistan via Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Russia to Mongolia, added South East Asia and Nepal. While working remotely I was lucky enough to explore most of the European countries and now on the Panamerican Highway North America. 

What is a brief understanding of your adventures so far?

Travelling became such a big part of my life, that it is less an adventure but more my daily life. I have the privilege to be able to connect my work with my travels which means of course that it is less of this dream sabbatical that most people have in their minds, but more a never ending streak of inspiration for my illustrations, art and visual storytelling. 

What are the top three destinations you hope to explore next, and why?

I'm looking forward to exploring Colombia a little more in depth, exploring Bolivia and the geomorphology of the salt flats - and of course the Andes which I have never seen before!

Where would you recommend others visit?

The countries where people have a lot of prejudices to go to (might be different depending where in the world you are from). 

We need more understanding and tolerance about different people and cultures in these times, so visit the countries that are vilified by our politicians to see by yourself that we don't need to be scared of each other. 

How do you primarily travel on your adventures today?

A 1987 mid wheel base Toyota Land Cruiser BJ73 - smaller, slower and older than most vehicles on the way. Everything is original, apart from the interior which is transformed into a mini living room with the help of my Dad.  

What are five pieces of equipment that you always travel with?

Contact lenses (I'm pretty blind), lighter, knife, camera and of course the phone. 

What inspires you to explore more?

Both people and landscapes. There's still so much more to learn and to explore. And I love the connections I make on the road...so as long as this still fills me with excitement I will keep going and share my story. 

How do you engage with others?

There's tons of ways! Fun fact: As a solo traveller I have been on my own less than half the time of my trip so far. I met other travellers by coincidence on the road, in hostels or via social media who joined me for a while. Friends are visiting and I try to connect with locals as much as possible. 

Why is it important to embrace global cultures?

It creates tolerance! Respectfully exploring cultures and learning that the way of living we are used to is not the only (or best) one is crucial in these times. 

What are your goals when you explore?

The aim is to live a full life and be curious towards everything I'm not familiar with. 

What are some challenges you have experienced?

Honestly, the biggest challenge as a solo traveller is to make all the decisions yourself. From where you park for getting a snack on the road to when and how to service your car or which route you choose - it's all on you. Sometimes this is just all a little too much ;)

How has exploration changed you?

It definitely increased my resilience. I was and am often dealing with anxiety and for me personally it has worked out great to expose myself to my fears to learn that usually nothing happens.

What is the number one lesson that you have learnt through your exploration?

Listen to locals to find out about risks and dangers and don't let other voices from your home country scare you!

How do you explore locally?

Mostly long distance hiking. As Europe is more crowded I would not explore with a car but put a tent in my backpack and walk. 

What advice would you give to others who are seeking life changing adventure?

Again: question all the "You can't do this or that!" very carefully. Is this really true? And if you are a solo woman - just go anyway! You are not alone :)

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