In early June, armed with the ambitious project “Voice of the Youth,” I embarked on phase two of my travels, intending to cover all forty eight states in the US. However, as life often reminds us, plans can change in an instant. Just as I commenced my journey through the remaining twenty-seven states after completing the first phase in twenty-one, a phone call from my cousin presented an exciting opportunity. He invited me to attend a personal event in Calgary, Canada. With agility being crucial in both business and personal endeavors, I made the decision to alter my plans and seize this unexpected chance.

Carrying my passport fortuitously, I canceled my Vipassana volunteering in Washington State (WA) after conducting youth interviews on June 23rd, setting my course toward Canada through Idaho. Unbeknownst to me, this detour would lead me on a picturesque route. On June 24th, I arrived in Calgary, where I joyfully participated in the event the following day. During that night of meditation, the realization struck me that canceling my volunteering session in Washington meant finding an alternative in Canada. Fortunately, I discovered a center in Youngstown, Alberta, applied, and was accepted from June 26th to June 29th. In a series of spontaneous decisions, I resolved to extend my journey further and explore Alaska, a state not originally on my itinerary. On June 29th, I embarked on a drive to Alaska, brimming with excitement.

To prepare for the arduous two-thousand-mile journey to Alaska, I diligently researched the requirements. Equipped with oil, coolant, and a twenty-five-liter gas container filled halfway, I ensured I had contingencies in place in case gas stations were scarce. Realizing that hotels were beyond my budget, I chose to spend the nights sleeping in my car—a decision that initially felt audacious but soon revealed itself to be a common practice for many travelers. As a vegetarian, I relied on sustenance such as oats and ready-to-eat Indian food that could endure for months.

My voyage presented a tapestry of surprises, both delightful and challenging. On the positive side, my eyes feasted upon breathtaking landscapes—azure lakes, majestic mountains, and vibrant evening skies. Moreover, I encountered extraordinary individuals along the way, whose warmth and hospitality left an indelible impression. On the flip side, there were nights when the presence of wild bears and unsettling nocturnal gusts rattled my nerves. Torrential rain accompanied by foreboding clouds added to the mix, making for an exhilarating yet occasionally nerve-wracking experience. Moreover, the absence of signal and internet during long hours of driving necessitated relying solely on my car’s GPS. I affectionately named my car ‘Dhanno,’ after a spirited she-horse from a famous Indian movie. Additionally, inspired by B.B. King’s song ‘Lucille,’ I named my GoPro ‘Lucille Big’ and my iPhone ‘Lucille Small.’ Without the faithful companionship of Dhanno, Lucille Big, and Lucille Small, I would not have achieved what I have accomplished thus far. Overall, it was an awe-inspiring journey that exceeded all my expectations.

Returning from Alaska via Canada, I reentered Idaho through a different port of entry, traversing the northwest and midwest before fulfilling my commitment to move to my new home in Texas by July 14th. As I conclude this chapter of my travels, I invite you to follow my blog and YouTube channel, ‘Worldreels.’ I will share captivating interviews with the remarkable youth I encountered throughout my journey, along with an engaging playlist dedicated to the Voice of the Youth in Canada. Additionally, check out my YouTube shorts, where I capture and publish amazing moments whenever time and cellular signal permit.

With only five more states left to explore, the third phase of my travels awaits. Stay tuned for more adventures to come.

Voice of the Youth – Canada

Shorts from the travels