Dedication
This book is for every person who wants to travel.
Some people are born with their entire being predestined to explore and travel the universe.
Travel Destiny
Something I notice about people who travel is that they seem to have a deeper understanding of people and life. The perspectives of those who travel tend to be more informed compared to others who do not travel.
Not everyone has a desire to travel though. Some people are satisfied residing in the same place all their life without much traveling — and this is completely fine. However, for all the people interested in traveling domestically and/or internationally, you have picked up the right book.
It is important to remember that you can travel wherever you want if you put a plan in place. A lack of finances does not have to stop you from reaching your travel goals.
Where would you like to go?
Step-by-Step Travel Blueprint
Step 1: Create Your Travel List
Document all the cities, countries, continents, islands, and states that you would like to visit. Do not place any limits on the number of places you write down.
Step 2: Prioritize Your Destinations
List the top one to three places that you would like to visit within the next year.
Step 3: Research Costs
Determine the total cost and expenses that each destination entails.
Step 4: Choose Your First Trip
Decide which place you would like to visit first, without regard to the cost.
Step 5: Fill Out the Travel Plan Template
Travel Plan:
- Place(s) I intend to visit:
- Why I want to visit:
- Cost + Expenses of trip (itemized):
- Plan I intend to follow to make this trip happen:
- Date I intend to go on this trip:
Ask, Ask, & Ask Some More
“Learn to discipline your disappointments.” — Jim Rohn
If you do not have all the resources to fund your travel adventures, you may need to save, work, and ask others for help.
There is no room for fear when it comes to asking. Everyone is different; some will require more help than others. Yet most people will need at least one helping hand — even if it’s as simple as answering a question.
Many people are afraid to ask because they fear rejection. However, rejection is simply another opportunity to find a “yes.” For every “no,” there is always a “yes” somewhere else.
Ask without concern for the answer. The more you ask, the higher your odds of receiving support.
When I raised money to study abroad, I asked many people for help — and received many “no’s.” Sometimes there was no response at all. Yet I kept asking. A lack of response never stopped me from seeking a “yes.”
When you have a goal, you will face hurdles. Those hurdles reveal how much you truly want it. Never stop asking or seeking, and never allow rejection discourage you.
Someone, somewhere, is waiting to help you. If “no” becomes common, let that be fuel to keep going. Do not take rejection personally. Keep going no matter what.
Operation 20 | Op China
Some of the places I have visited include eight countries in Europe and several cities throughout China. The trip to Europe cost about $8,000, and the trip to China about $12,000 (it included study abroad courses).
You can raise the money you need in less than a year — sometimes in just a few months. Even if your dream trip costs more, it’s still possible with consistent effort and belief.
The Europe trip was planned ten months in advance. China was planned in four. Both succeeded because I backed my desire with determination.
Operation 20
The European Heritage program, through People to People International – ECE, visited Belgium, England, France, Germany, Switzerland, and The Netherlands.
I called my plan “Operation 20” because my goal was to ask everyone I could for just twenty dollars. Some gave less, many gave more — but the clear ask made it easy.
I even went door to door. It was intimidating, but I realized that asking gave me a chance for a “yes,” while not asking guaranteed a “no.”
People supported me because I had purpose, structure, and sincerity. I showed how my travels would also benefit others. When you have a clear plan that uplifts more than yourself, people invest in you.
To visualize progress, I created a wall chart of 400 boxes (each box worth $20). Every time someone donated, I filled one box with the date and their name. Filling each box brought joy — especially when a single donation filled several at once.
Operation 20 Goal: $8,000
Op China
China came later, and I had only four months to raise $12,000. I wanted to see Asia before graduation and believed everything would align — and it did.
This trip included Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, and Yan’an.
Instead of asking for a fixed amount, I presented an itemized list of expenses and deadlines. People donated more generously — some covered entire costs like the visa.
For both “Operations,” I wrote letters, followed up with gratitude, and worked constantly. Sometimes I even offered labor in exchange for donations.
Be prepared to do much of the work yourself. It’s worth it once you reach your destination.
Frequent travelers grow resourceful. The more you travel, the easier funding becomes.
Decide on your plan now: Will you rely solely on your own work or invite others to help? Either way, plan thoroughly. Remember, countless people — even strangers — love supporting global education and cultural exchange.
Letters, Texts, & Emails
Communication has evolved, making fundraising simpler than ever. In addition to letters, texts, and calls, you can use online tools and social media fundraisers.
Some donors prefer online convenience. Cater to that. Personally, I stuck to letters — they felt more powerful and personal.
When asking for donations, always explain why. Tell people your story, goals, and purpose. Give them a compelling reason to support you.
Letters
Much of my success came from mailed letters. I sent hundreds to family, friends, and connections — each with a self-addressed stamped envelope.
Letters are timeless. A good one is sincere, clear, and professional. Ask someone to review yours before sending to ensure it inspires trust and action.
Example Itemized Trip
Destination: Japan, China, Singapore
Duration: 30 days
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Spending | $600 |
| Food | $800 |
| Housing | $2,600 |
| Plane Tickets | $4,000 |
| Total | $8,000 |
Deadline: 00/00/0000
Texts, Emails, Calls
For closer friends or family, keep it simple — send a short message or call. When people ask what you’re up to, share that you’re raising funds to travel.
Entrepreneurial Efforts
In addition to your regular job, consider side work to accelerate your savings. Working for yourself gives flexibility and control.
I taught music, tutored students, and took odd jobs — all of which funded my trips.
Entrepreneurial Ideas
- Gardening
- Organizing or Decluttering
- House Cleaning
- Dog Walking or Sitting
- Pet Washing
- Babysitting
- Lawn Care
- Personal Training
- Car Detailing
- Grocery Shopping
- Executive Assistance
- Errand Running
- Research or Typing Projects
- Tutoring
- Teaching Your Skill
- Selling Unused Items
Your passions can be monetized. There are limitless opportunities when you get creative.
Make your goals about more than yourself. Show how your travels benefit others — spreading cultural awareness, compassion, and education.
Offer to earn support. Many reluctant donors become enthusiastic when you show willingness to work for it.
Networking Is Essential
Ultimately, other people made my travels possible, but I facilitated their help. Networking was everything.
Meet new people. Share your plans often. Every conversation is an opportunity. You never know who knows someone who can help you.
The more you share, the more support you attract. Spread the word about your travel goals — resources often come from the least expected places.
Last Tidbits
Don’t forget scholarships. Many organizations fund both students and non-students. I earned one from the OIE Foundation for my China trip — every bit helped.
Also, not all travel is expensive. Research hostels, bid for airfare, teach abroad, or do homestays. Be creative!
Instead of waiting for “someday,” make it happen today.
Thank you for reading this book. I hope you apply what you’ve learned and travel to every place you dream of.
Turn Your Dreams Into Goals
(Excerpt from: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late)
Often, the dreams we have can manifest if we simply document them and act. Every person has unique gifts and passions — signs pointing to purpose.
“Monetize your passion.”
Instead of spending your life doing what you dislike, get paid to do what you love.
Spend more time doing what you enjoy, and less time doing what drains you. That’s the foundation of a fulfilling, successful life.
Many people never chase their dreams or give up too soon when results are slow. The key is persistence — consistent daily action creates momentum.
Setbacks should motivate you, not stop you. The more you work toward your dreams, the stronger your belief becomes.
List your top five goals right now. Pick one, brainstorm 10–20 actions, and take one action today.
No dream is too big. Adjust your steps — not your vision. You are capable of more than you imagine once you let go of fear.
How much longer will you watch others achieve their dreams while ignoring your own? Redirect that time into action.
© 2017 Destiny S. Harris All Rights Reserved.