From the lush rainforests and soaring mountain ranges to the breathtaking coastlines, it’s all right here in the Great White North.
Nothing makes you want to break free and explore the world quite like graduating from post-secondary education. When four years of confinement and hard work come to an end, all you crave is freedom. This held true for Lisa Kurolap, who, after graduating from university, decided to embark on a 15-month journey that took her across two continents. She effortlessly fell into the backpacking world, becoming a curious adventurer while wandering across remarkable landscapes and falling in love with the thrill of seeing the world from a fresh perspective.
“Travelling changed the trajectory of my life. It not only allowed me to foster new friendships but I was continuously pushed outside my comfort zone, which forced me to connect more deeply with myself. Being surrounded by nature and exploring the beauty of this world is where I feel the most at home. Once I arrived back in Canada, I immediately knew that I had to bring this experience to as many people as possible.”
Soon after arriving in Canada, Kurolap realized that young Canadians looking to explore this beautiful country don’t have the same opportunities travellers in Asia or Australia have — opportunities like social hostels, affordable and convenient transportation, or local group tours.
When we think of the Canadian landscape, beauty is the only thing that comes to mind. We have snow-capped peaks that span the West Coast and beg adventurers to hike up them for the most spectacular views of the country’s forests, mountains, and lakes. However, we sometimes forget about the incredible beaches quietly tucked away on Vancouver Island, giving travellers a dose of surfer living. There’s so much to take in, from the lush rainforests and soaring mountain ranges to the breathtaking coastlines, and it’s all right here in the Great White North.
“Being raised in Ontario, I never quite understood just how beautiful, unique, and diverse our country is. From quaint east coast towns and the rushing of Niagara Falls to the vivid stars of the Prairies and the wonders of the Canadian Rockies, Canada has quickly become my favourite travel destination.”
By simply looking into our own backyard, we’re being invited to go on an epic adventure. All you need is a deep desire to step outside what feels comfortable and a yearning to reconnect with yourself and the natural world.
The importance of reconnecting
Nature is the epitome of freedom. Its vastness and boundless magnificence make you feel limitless. Walking through an expansive forest or taking a long deep breath of fresh air can invoke an innate sense of calmness and inner joy.
During the pandemic, staying confined indoors was the norm. We became used to being secluded and restricted. Not only did our work and home life blur together as one, but we also became isolated from others and nature.
As we move out of these uncertain times and into a new way of living, we’re granted an opportunity to stitch back together what was lost over the past two years. We can take the time to reconnect with ourselves, with others, and with nature. As Canadians, we have the opportunity to do it in our backyard as we explore the most incredible natural wonders our country has to offer.
Travelling Canada in style
Kurolap came home from her travels feeling inspired. She wanted to bring her love of travel to Canada by providing adventurers with an experience that showcases all the highlights and hidden gems Canada offers. And so FML Adventures was born, a Canadian travel company that does just that.
Through her desire to bring people together and facilitate experiences that deepen their connection with nature, Kurolap designed tours to give her travellers a trip of a lifetime. While exploring the Rocky Mountains and swimming through calm glacier waters, Lisa has witnessed people face their deepest fears and push themselves outside their comfort zone. As a result, they come out with lasting memories while forging new friendships that persist long after their tour has ended.
Mother Nature offers us something profoundly special — whether it’s a fresh perspective or a brief moment of reflection, there’s no denying that it’s one of the best remedies to lift our spirits. After two years of isolation, there’s truly no better time to immerse yourself in the great outdoors and explore the beauty that exists right here in our very own backyard.
