Interview with Theresa and Fritz

Theresa and Fritz are a couple from Germany. They travel the world and inspire people to step out of their comfort zone and follow their dreams. In the interview, they tell us how it all came about and what's next.

As TripLegend, we asked them some questions about their travel experiences and asked them for advice on sustainable and eco-friendly travel solutions.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourselves?

We are a couple from Germany and started our "world trip" on July 9th. Unfortunately, due to the COVID situation, we can only visit Europe. For this trip Theresa took a sabbatical as a teacher and Fritz quit his job as a physiotherapist in a German first division soccer club.

What inspired you to travel the world?

The thing that inspired us the most was to live a different life than we were used to. That, in combination with our dream to see the world, was the main reason for our new path. When we made the decision, we also started to connect with people who have done or are doing such trips. The two who inspired us the most were Marie and Jake (@mariefeandjakesnow). 

What advice do you give to people who want to do the same but are still hesitant?

Our best advice is to look at your options and just do it. Many people have such a dream but never dare to take the first step. If you don't want to quit your job, ask your boss about time off, unpaid leave, or working remotely. If you really want to do it, there's always a way, but one thing is for sure, you need to get out of your comfort zone. Once the decision is made, things will get a lot easier.

What has travel taught you about life?

Most of all, that life is unpredictable. We spent so much time making plans, but life went differently and Corona happened. Since we started our journey, we have never planned more than seven days in advance.

The other thing we've learned is that being a time millionaire makes you richer than money ever could. The freedom we are experiencing right now feels absolutely unique and we are sure that we are really lucky because not many people can feel what we are feeling right now.

What destinations are still on your bucket list?

Actually we wanted to start in Asia and before Corona we made plans for Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Singapore and so on. A big dream would also be to visit the Caribbean and New Zealand. We'll see what life has in store for us.

Which destination should we definitely put on the TripLegend map?

Our favourite destination so far has been Madeira. It is an island with beautiful nature, different types of beaches and breathtaking views. The food and people are also absolutely fantastic. Since Madeira is a volcanic island, you can experience all kinds of weather in one day. Last but not least, Madeira is special for flower lovers, as it is also called "flower island" or "island of endless spring".

You actively use your social media platforms to raise awareness about climate change. Why is it important for travelers to care about our environment?

Especially as travellers, we are part of the problem. Everyone who has ever dealt with the topic of climate change knows that flying is one of the main problems. Knowing this and still wanting to travel, we had to look at our options to minimize our carbon footprint. So we decided to fly as little as possible and also offset our carbon emissions. Just a week ago we found out that it is even possible to travel carbon neutral. So we started a cooperation with @mindful.mission.eartha start-up from Vienna that eliminates your carbon footprint by supporting UN-certified climate programs. We recommend everyone to take a look at it and even for non-travellers it could be very interesting.

TripLegend supports sustainable tourism. What are you doing to support sustainable travel?

We try to reduce our plastic consumption, eat and buy local, and support small local businesses when we travel. We've also both been vegan for over two years, which isn't always easy during a big trip, but it's the healthiest and most wholesome lifestyle you can live for yourself, our animals and our planet.

Can you guys give us some tips on how to be a responsible traveler?

Look at what is within your means and be aware of every decision you make - be it food choices, plastic consumption, different ways of travelling. Every decision you make has an impact on our planet. You decide if it is good or bad.

What's the best advice you can give our TripLegends about traveling?

Be aware of the environment you are in, respect cultures, people and animals and get off the beaten track. Try new things and get in touch with the locals. This is what creates beautiful memories.

Theresa, in one of your posts you wrote about your dream to travel the world when you were just 16. Even though your parents didn't support you, you didn't give up on your dreams. How would you describe your experience as a solo female traveler?

It's important to know that not everyone who loves you will support you if you come up with crazy plans. Not because they want to hurt you, but because they want to protect you. In those moments, it's important to know what you really want. No one needs to be convinced of your dream but yourself. So my recommendation is to manifest your goals first before sharing them with others. Feel the fear and do it anyway.

What else would you like to share with us?

Our biggest goal in life is to inspire others to follow their dreams. If we can do it, you can do it. Go beyond your comfort zone!

Don't forget to follow Theresa and Fritz for a big dose of wanderlust and adventure!