Hanna C. (Johansson)

Where are you from?

Mora in Sweden

When did you start your interest in exploration?

I started exploring solo already as a child. My poor teachers often found an open window and no Hanna. It's been easier to continue this as a grown-up, even though some people still want me to stay inside for some reason.

What is a brief understanding of your background story up until you started seeking adventure?

I tried to fit into the ideal "good girl"-frame and got myself a good job as a marketer in Stockholm, Sweden. After a few years, I realized that this wasn't for me, the little girl who ran away from kindergarten still needed to get out. 

What special skills do you have to help with your explorations?

I don't know if I can call them special skills, but I'm good at navigation and keeping calm in stressful situations. That has helped me a lot. My stubbornness is an excellent tool too.

Where have you explored so far?

I've explored my home country Sweden, and besides that, I've been to 75 countries and revisited some of them several times. 

What is a brief understanding of your adventures so far?

Always follow your gut and heart, the world and its people are beautiful and deserve to be admired.

What are the top three destinations you hope to explore next, and why?

South America, Kazakhstan, and the Faroe Islands. I haven't been to these places yet, and I long to create a relationship with them. I love what's different and the feeling of getting to know a place that at first felt utterly foreign. 

Where would you recommend others visit?

Japan, Namibia, and Iceland

How do you primarily travel on your adventures today?

It's a 2021 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC. I've mounted racks for luggage and navigation. 

What are five pieces of equipment that you always travel with?

Multi tool, proper rain gear, side stand plate for soft surfaces, coffee and snacks.

What inspires you to explore more?

While I'm exploring the world around me, I also explore the world within. I grow as a human, and I long for the people I haven't met yet that will become part of my extended family.

How do you engage with others?

At gas stations, social media, hotels/hostels, traveler online forums, events etc.

Why is it important to embrace global cultures?

If we understand each other better, there's nothing to fear. A world without fear would be a beautiful place, wouldn't it?

What are your goals when you explore?

To feel calm and free.

What are some challenges you have experienced?

I've fallen off the bike, got lost, been homesick, met non-friendly people, had problems with documents at the border... Life is a challenge, and so is exploring. 

What has been your most meaningful moment so far?

Having a whole conversation with a person that doesn't speak the same language. 

How has exploration changed you?

It has made me into an independent and more open-minded person.

What is the number one lesson that you have learnt through your exploration?

That we're all different, someone's "must-see" might be a total waste of time for another. Listen to yourself, dare to say no, and dare to set up a route that interests YOU. 

How do you explore locally?

I eat at different restaurants (mostly from other cultures), meet up with tourists, visit suburbs, and attend events such as smaller music concerts etc. There's a lot to do to explore locally. 

What does the explmore mantra mean to you?

I think it summarizes very well what traveling and exploring are all about. 

What advice would you give to others who are seeking life changing adventure?

Go outside your comfort zone and be open to doing new things. A life-changing adventure doesn't necessarily mean that you have to quit your job and go to the other side of the globe. It can be life-changing to travel for a weekend; it all depends on how open you are to new experiences and if you let them change your life.