Flying high @ Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah, USA – Karina Noriega

In June of 2011 I graduated from McMaster University with an Honours Degree in Neuroscience & Behaviour, ending a decade of being defined as ‘a student’. My passion for learning and exploring the world has since led me in a different direction.  Never to be one of the masses nor conform to societal expectations, I began looking for my place in the world by experiencing life on my own terms.

As an independent solo backpacker I encountered and learned to navigate through numerous challenges including my own perceptions, customs and personal limitations. 

After several extended journeys in Asia, South America, Western Europe, Central and North America I finally acknowledged that travel had changed me. It fueled me with inspiration. Constantly being surrounded by the challenges and unknowns of the road gave me constant perspective on how most of the world lives and what truly matters to me. I became more patient, empathetic, wiser person. Personal growth was an everyday event. Returning to 9-5 world that defines behaviour, happiness and success was no longer an option.

In May 2014 I sold all belongings, my home and any chance of a stable, predictable life in Canada. I am now a full-time nomadic adventurer and travel writer following opportunity around the world. 

Watch 10 Extraordinary Facts to learn more about Karina!

My experiences inspired my desire to share my tales with others though my stories and photographs.  As I embark on my world trek, I am hoping to not only expand my knowledge, keep growing and learning, but also bring inspiration to others.

I love to teach and I love learn – in my opinion, these two are mutual to each other and you should always be open to new ways of viewing and thinking about every issue.

I love it when anyone proves me wrong! As much as I consider myself open-minded and ready for anything, being shocked by others shows me just how much I still have to learn and the inherent stereotypes I allow myself to place on others. So go on, shock me!

~ Karina Noriega ~

P.S. I’m scared too. Don’t let fear determine your life!

“Tourists don’t know where they’ve been, travelers don’t know where they are going. Travel is glamorous only in retrospect.” – Paul Theroux

With April, my guest post writer and current travel partner. Utah, USA http://www.KarinasExtraordinaryLife.com

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