The Best Decision I Made in My Twenties
Hello, I’m Tom, the creator of Nomadic Compass. I’ve been exploring the world for years, driven by a deep curiosity for culture, history, and nature. Through Nomadic Compass, I share my travel experiences, insights, and guides to help you discover authentic destinations and meaningful journeys across the globe.
I built this website for anyone who dreams of exploring or backpacking the world. No matter your age or background, the experience will be unique and transformative. That said, doing it while you’re young can shape the rest of your life in powerful ways. I was 24 when I truly began to travel. I quit a solid job with promising career prospects, sold everything I owned, and left the city I’d always lived in—along with my family, friends, and everything familiar. Looking back, it was the best decision I made in my early adulthood.
Why Traveling?
Traveling gives you an incredible sense of freedom. Many people struggle to figure out who they are or what they want when stuck in what I call the “normal life”—the rat race. Society pushes young people to choose a field of study, get a job, and work for someone else. And in some ways, there’s nothing wrong with that. But how are you supposed to know what path to follow if you haven’t even taken the time to know yourself?
Unless you’re deeply passionate about your chosen direction, I’d suggest taking a year off. Seriously. If your future job isn’t something that excites you, time will drag and your life will feel stuck on repeat.
I once saw a video of Bryan Cranston talking about how he walked away from everything in his early twenties. That decision led him to a clear realization—he wanted to act. Travel can do the same for you. It pushes you out of your comfort zone and forces growth. You become more social, more resourceful, more independent. You learn to ask for directions, plan routes, find places to sleep, manage your budget, and figure out what’s worth seeing. These aren’t just travel skills—they’re life skills, and you gain them by doing, not by reading or sitting in a classroom.
Why Nomadic Compass?
Travel, for me, is not just about ticking off famous landmarks. Instead, it’s about connecting with people, understanding traditions, and immersing myself in places that tell stories of the past and present. Whether it’s wandering through ancient European villages, discovering mega cities in Asia, or hiking remote trails in the Americas, I always seek out experiences that feel real and memorable.
Nomadic Compass is more than a travel blog — it’s a guide for travelers who want to go beyond surface-level tourism. In particular, I focus on cultural richness, natural beauty, and history that often gets overlooked by mainstream travel guides. Ultimately, my goal is to help you find those special places that offer a genuine connection to the destination. You can start browsing here.
My Travel Philosophy
I believe that travel should inspire personal growth, broaden perspectives, and ultimately foster a deeper understanding of the world. Rather than rushing from one hotspot to another, it’s about slowing down and truly soaking in the culture, landscapes, and people around you. For this reason, Nomadic Compass is designed to encourage this kind of immersive travel.
Photography is a big part of my journey. Capturing moments through my lens allows me to share the beauty and uniqueness of each place with you. The photos you’ll find here aren’t just pictures — they’re stories frozen in time. You can find select canvas and poster prints available in my store here.
What You’ll Find on Nomadic Compass
This site offers:
- Detailed travel guides focused on culture, history, and nature.
- Photo essays and travel stories from my adventures worldwide.
- Tips on how to travel deeply and connect with destinations.
- Resources for planning trips that match your interests and values.
I cover a wide range of places, from Europe’s historic cities and countryside to the diverse cultures of Asia and the Americas. I’m also certain that someday Africa and Oceania will be part of this journey. My approach is straightforward: I present honest, helpful insights designed to inspire you to explore beyond the usual tourist trails. By doing so, I hope to encourage deeper, more authentic travel experiences.
Join Me on This Journey
Whether you’re an experienced traveler or just starting to dream about your next trip, Nomadic Compass is here to guide you. I update the site regularly with fresh content, so keep checking back for new guides, stories, and tips.
Thanks for visiting Nomadic Compass!
