We often turn to travel for a much-needed break from the daily grind—a chance to recharge, gain fresh perspectives, and return with renewed energy. Studies have supported this, confirming that travel enhances both physical and mental well-being, lifting our mood, reducing stress, and giving us a brighter outlook in life.

So, what if travel could offer more than just a temporary escape? Imagine transforming a leisure getaway into a journey of purpose and self-discovery. While it might sound like a subtle shift, purpose-driven travel is a whole new experience, requiring intention, preparation, and openness to explore unfamiliar paths. Take it from travel content creator and medical professional, Dr. Kim Cantos. Known online as The Moonlighting Doctor, Dr. Cantos started like many of us, taking trips for relaxation and sharing those moments on social media. Over time, his adventures evolved from simple sightseeing to meaningful explorations, where each destination offers an opportunity for self-growth, culinary discoveries, cultural immersion, and awe at the world’s wonders— all while nourishing his mental and emotional wellness.

Dr. Kim Cantos enjoys long hikes to discover less-crowded vantage points of Mt. Fuji, such as Lake Tanuki in Shizuoka Prefecture, where the views are nothing short of breathtaking

Dr. Kim Cantos immerses himself in the magical atmosphere of the Yunishigawa Igloo Festival

This kind of travel isn’t just about exploring places in a new light; it’s about pushing boundaries and seeking experiences that expand who you are. But with bolder journeys come bigger unknowns, and ensuring peace of mind is essential to fully immerse yourself in this transformative cruise.

Ready to plan your vacation? Here are insights from Dr. Cantos to help you start your mindful travel adventure:

Seek Out Lesser-Known Destinations for Deeper Connections

While many travelers flock to famous landmarks and bustling cities, Dr. Cantos encourages exploring off-the-beaten locations for a more unique, meaningful travel experience. From his journeys, such as admiring Mt. Fuji’s quiet majesty from a remote Japanese town, he discovered that lesser-known places offer the chance to truly connect with local people and immerse in their way of life. “Interacting with locals gives you a deeper perspective on history, society, and culture, which often has a lasting impact on your habits and choices when you return home,” he reflects. For Dr. Cantos, these personal encounters transform travel from mere sightseeing into a journey of growth and understanding.

Dr. Kim Cantos ensures that every trip is filled with meaningful experiences, from exploring the serene cherry gardens of Yoichi, Hokkaido, to discovering hidden gems like his favorite restaurant in Ashikaga, and savoring the vibrant soul food of Luang Prabang, Laos

Simplify Your Itinerary to Savor the Journey

It’s easy to fall into the habit of jam-packing travel itineraries, eager to experience as much as possible in a limited time. But Dr. Cantos suggests a different approach for those seeking purposeful travel: prioritize quality over quantity. Start by identifying the experiences that resonate most with you, whether it’s learning a traditional craft, savoring local dishes, or exploring a historic village. By trimming down activities, you’ll gain the time and space to be fully present in each moment. “Allow yourself more time to appreciate the culture, food, and unique rhythms of the place,” he advises. A thoughtfully curated itinerary not only helps you focus on what truly matters to you but also fosters a mindful approach that keeps you open to unexpected moments of discovery.

Go big on health protection whenever, and wherever you travel

Travel can expose us to unexpected health risks, from viruses to body strains due to the physical demands of outdoor adventures. Dr. Cantos shares his insights on staying healthy on the road, noting that preparation is key. “You may not see the enemy, like viral infections, which can sneak up on you without warning,” he explains. “Infections like pneumonia and amoebiasis can quickly turn a dream trip into a nightmare.”

In addition to infections, physical injuries like fractures and sprains are also a common risk for nature enthusiasts. Dr. Cantos suggests packing over-the-counter medications and wearing appropriate footwear, especially on rugged trails, to avoid a hospital visit.

Of course, even with the best preparation, accidents can still happen. That’s where AXA Smart Traveller’s highest emergency medical coverage makes a world of difference. With its P3.5 million coverage for sickness and an additional P3.5 million for accidental injuries, you get access to immediate medical assistance without worrying about the financial impact. When your health takes an unplanned detour, you want to know you’re covered, so you can focus on exploring the world with peace of mind.

For Dr. Cantos, the best adventures also come from having dependable protection while traveling. With rising concerns over baggage handling and unexpected delays, he never travels withoutAXA Smart Traveller. The plan, which can also be availed conveniently via the AXA Philippines website, offers assistance for lost or damaged baggage, cancellations, and delays. This allows Dr. Cantos to relax, knowing he’s covered against the common stresses of international travel.

With several trips on his calendar, Dr. Cantos emphasizes the value of careful pre-planning for any purpose-driven journey.

Inspired by Dr. Cantos’s insights, take the time to plan your purposeful travels. Embrace each adventure as a step toward finding fulfillment, knowing that with the right preparation and support, you can go big and make the most of every destination.

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