Every story begins with a journey — sometimes a physical path across borders, other times an inward step toward who we're becoming. As the TESSAN 100 Travelers campaign officially begins, we've already seen travelers from different cultures, continents, and walks of life preparing to share their journeys.
But one question comes up again and again:
“What kind of story stands out?”
“What makes a story meaningful?”
The answer isn't about dramatic plot twists or extraordinary achievements.
A story becomes worth sharing when it carries emotion, truth, and connection — the very things reminding us why travel reshapes who we are.
Below are a few simple but powerful ways to help your story shine with authenticity and soul.
1. Start With a Moment That Changed You
Great stories are not travel guides; they are mirrors of transformation.
Think back:
Was there a moment on your journey that shifted your perspective?
A conversation with a stranger?
A night when fear turned to courage?
A destination that made you question what really matters?
Describe that moment.
Let us see it, feel it, breathe it with you.
This is where your story begins to live.
2. Go Beyond “Where You Went” — Tell Us “What You Felt”
Everyone can list destinations.
But only you can tell us what those places did to you.
Did a quiet sunrise make you feel less alone?
Did a long train ride bring clarity you never had before?
Did you discover a part of yourself you didn't know existed?
Travel becomes meaningful when feelings leave a mark.
Sharing these feelings is what allows readers around the world to connect with you — even if they've never stepped on the same path.
3. Embrace Your Vulnerability
The most powerful stories often come from honesty.
It's okay if your journey wasn't perfect.
It's okay if you were lost.
It's okay if your story is still unfolding.
You don't need to sound strong or polished — you only need to be real.
When you speak from vulnerability, your story gains the courage to reach others who may be walking through the same emotions.
4. Give Your Journey a Meaning — Even a Small One
Every journey carries a purpose, even if it appears simple:
To reconnect.
To escape.
To search.
To heal.
To rediscover joy.
What did this journey give you?
What did it teach you about the world — or about yourself?
Meaning doesn't need to be grand.
It only needs to be true.
5. Let Your Story Be Yours — Not an Imitation
You don't need fancy words.
You don't need dramatic adventures.
You don't need to sound like anyone else.
Your “ordinary” may be exactly what resonates with someone who needs your story.
The most memorable stories in history weren't written by perfect travelers —
but by authentic ones.
6. End With What You Carry Forward
Every journey leaves something behind — and takes something with it.
A new perspective.
A new courage.
A restored sense of self.
A connection that still warms you when you think of it.
Tell us what you carry now, in this moment.
That's where your story finds its lasting echo.
Your Story Matters — Because You Matter
The TESSAN 100 Travelers initiative is not a contest of who traveled the farthest or photographed the most.
It is a celebration of human connection, the quiet beauty of lived experience, and the honesty that binds strangers around the world.
So write boldly.
Write honestly.
Write as though someone out there needs your story —because maybe they do.
We can't wait to read the journeys that shaped you.
And we're honored to help you share them with the world.
