A Journey of Self-Discovery & Travel

Travel has been my journey of self-discovery, a way to break free from the constraints of imposed expectations, and a means to explore the facets of my identity that may have been overshadowed by societal pressures.

My annual visits to the Dominican Republic served as a foundational experience, introducing me to the richness of my culture and providing an escape from the challenges of assimilation and personal anxieties. It wasn't just a change of environment; it was a profound connection to my roots and a rejuvenation of my spirit. I observed a similar transformation in my mother, whose return to her homeland seemed to bring her inner child back to life.

The realization that travel was more than just a temporary escape struck me after my freshman year in college. Venturing into other countries with friends, I found that it was not only a break from the routine but also a mental refreshment, alleviating the anxieties that our parents, in their pursuit of the American dream, unintentionally passed on to us. Many of us, particularly people of color, don't experience the ideal childhood depicted in that dream. Instead, we inherit the weight of our parents' aspirations, leading to the manifestation of imposter syndrome.

These anxieties manifested prominently during my high school and college transitions. The pressure to excel academically became a constant companion, restricting the exploration of my teenage years and oppressing the freedom to make mistakes and discover my creativity. The meticulous planning that shaped my life also meant unfulfilled childhood dreams, adding to the burden and contributing to my current anxieties. Do I have time? Am I too old for this now?

Travel became my liberator. It allowed me to connect with myself on a deeper level and engage in those spontaneous, enjoyable activities I had always dreamed of. Without taking the leap to explore beyond my comfort zone, I might not have uncovered these aspects of myself.

Through travel, I've embraced the idea that the journey of self-discovery is ongoing. It's about breaking free from societal expectations, rediscovering forgotten dreams, and allowing oneself the grace to make mistakes and evolve. It's a process of learning, healing, and understanding that my identity is not confined by predetermined paths but is a tapestry woven through diverse experiences. Travel, for me, has been the compass guiding me towards authenticity and a more profound understanding of who I am.

Remember: Our parents did what they could with the tools they had. Once I learned this, I felt liberated.

Meet Flavia Cornejo: From First-Gen Adventures to Inspiring Latina Traveler

Flavia in front of the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. February 2019

Hola 👋🏼 I’m Flavia Cornejo, a Peruvian-American raised in New Jersey, but currently living in Portugal. During the pandemic I launched my travel blog, Latina Traveler, that focuses on solo female travel and life abroad. So far I’ve traveled to 37 countries, 32 US states, and lived in 8 countries to date.

My travel journey began at a young age with the first trip being to the motherland, Peru. My early travel years were similar to many other First Gen kids where I spent my summers visiting family back in my parent’s home country. 

Before my 15th birthday, my parents gave me the option of having a Quince or going on a trip. I chose a 3 week trip with strangers throughout Europe (Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and England). It was the best decision I could have made and it changed the trajectory of my life.

After graduating university I remembered that Europe trip and recalled how we had trip leaders. That’s when I decided to apply to jobs where I could do the same so that I could get paid to travel. I was accepted and spent summers in Peru, Hawaii, and Costa Rica!

Flavia in front of a Roman Temple in Evora, Portugal. September 2023

My love for travel only grew even more so when the pandemic hit, I stopped putting off my dream of starting a travel blog. 

I had first heard of travel blogging back in 2013 when I attended my first Women’s Travel Fest. From that moment, I knew that would be my new dream and goal. I met women who were being paid to travel and write about their adventures on their own websites. These women would be paid for collaborating with brands and having ads on their sites and I knew that was what I wanted for myself.

But 22-year old me was not that confident or sure of herself. So even though I launched my first blog in 2014, I quickly let it die because it wasn’t ‘perfect’ or how I imagined it to be. Imposter syndrome and the unrealistic idea of perfection stopped me from wanting to make any mistakes so that eventually I could improve. Instead I stayed still. 

On the other hand, 28-year old me was no longer the same person. I stopped giving myself excuses and decided it was now or never. It was time to go for my dreams. 

When I officially launched my blog my main and only goal was to make passive income from it so that I could keep traveling on my own terms. That is still the long term plan, but in the meantime so many other amazing things have happened. I’ve:

• Written articles for Fodor’s, Viator, and Business Insider

• Been asked to speak at travel conferences: Latino Travel Fest and Women’s Travel Fest

• Had virtual speaking engagements with The Nomadic Network, Latino World Travelers, and Globetrotting Dominicana

• Been featured on over 15 different podcasts and in over 10 online publications

• Launched my own group trips to travel with mi comunidad around the world

It has not been a straight forward journey and I’m sure there’s many things that I haven’t even thought about or considered that have yet to occur. I’m excited to see what the next chapter brings and to continue encouraging and inspiring women to travel solo with confidence.

Flavia looking down at Choquequirao in Peru. March 2018

Connect with Flavia online or in person by joining her group trips!

Blog - Latina Traveler

Group Trips

Instagram - @LatinaTraveler

TikTok - @LatinaTraveler

YouTube - @LatinaTraveler

Twitter: @LatinaTraveler_

Soulful Reflections: Embracing Life and Self-Discovery Through Balinese Hindu-Buddhist Culture

Experiencing Balinese Hindu-Buddhist culture and customs has profoundly influenced my life in many positive ways. Bali's simple lifestyle and their reverence for nature have opened my eyes to a greater appreciation for my surroundings. As humans, it is essential to love our environment and our planet, lead a life rooted in pure love, and engage in constructive conversations to facilitate personal growth. Sometimes, it can be challenging for people to understand cultures and religions different from their own. However, if we shift our focus away from debating which religion is superior and instead embrace the idea that a good life can be found in any belief system as long as it fosters happiness, good health, and love.

During this journey, I learned to take life one day at a time, to pause, take a deep breath, and embrace my true self, both physically and personality-wise. The temples we visited provided me with the perfect setting for this self-discovery. If you're someone looking to strengthen your connection with yourself through self-love, Balinese Hindu-Buddhist culture offers an excellent path for meditation and self-acceptance.

First and foremost, you need to show love and respect for others, their religions, and their customs. Some may fear that appreciating another religion will weaken their own faith. However, the truth is that if your connection with your faith is strong, no one can diminish its significance in your life. Instead, you can explore the commonalities between belief systems and recognize our shared humanity. Secondly, and perhaps most importantly, you must have a genuine desire to learn. Without a genuine curiosity and willingness to learn, you won't truly experience the culture of any place you visit. With that in mind, let me share how the Goa Gajah and Gunung Kawi Temples impacted my life and soul.

The Goa Gajah Temple

Bali 2018

Walking into the Goa Gajah Temple, I immediately sensed an indescribable presence. Despite its modest size, the temple exuded spirituality through its incense, intricate carvings, and an overall mysterious atmosphere. The carvings within Goa Gajah were truly astonishing and left me in awe. Also known as the Elephant Cave, the Goa Gajah Temple was constructed in the ninth century as a sanctuary and a place of worship. It served as a hub for meditation and inner reflection, explaining the powerful emotional experience it offered.

From a distance, one could catch a glimpse of the temple, its ancient stones, and the soothing aroma of relaxation, a scent that seems to permeate the air. Breathing in the greenery surrounding the temple, along with the fragrant incense and burning offerings, inspired a profound sense of relaxation and encouraged me to embrace life one day at a time. The Goa Gajah Temple allowed me to connect with my own mind and with nature.

Gunung Kawi Temple

The Canang Sari, an offering adorned with meaningful colors representing a gesture of peace, is meticulously prepared by Balinese women as an offering to their gods. At the Gunung Kawi Temple, we had the privilege of witnessing a man crafting the Canang Sari. The aroma was captivating, and the craftsmanship was nothing short of artistry. Built in the eleventh century, the Gunung Kawi Temple houses several temples within its grounds. Descending three hundred steps, one arrives at a temple situated beside the Pakerisan River.

Canang Sari

Canang Sari in the making!

Walking through the Gunung Kawi Temple felt akin to strolling through a vibrant, life-filled garden. When I travel, I often find myself reflecting on various aspects of my life—my past, my relationships, and the people who have come and gone. This reflective process is essential for my soul's growth. The Gunung Kawi Temple provided me with the space and serenity to connect with my inner self. It reminded me that everyone carries their own battles, for which others are not to blame. My journey to Bali came at a perfect juncture in my life, allowing me to introspect, reconnect with my soul, and rediscover my true self.