Traveler Tuesday – Skye of The Fit Traveller

Health, fitness and luxury travel – that makes for a great combo don't you think? That's what Skye Gilkeson had in mind when she created The Fit Traveller. Skye is the founder and editor-in-chief of this stylish site. She has a background in international studies and journalism. That foundation, along with her personal health journey is threaded through her content. The Fit Traveller also has other contributors who believe in travel, health, and well-being, it's a great site to check out!

Let’s meet travel blogger Skye!

[1] When and how did you become a traveler?
I have been travelling since I was a child. Growing up in the country meant we were always in the car travelling near and far. My first international trip was to the US when I was seven and I still remember it vividly. I loved every minute of it. The moment I knew travel would become a very big part of my life was when I went away on an international sports tour at 15. We toured the UK, Europe and the US and it was then I planned that when I was 18 and graduated from school I would backpack around the world, and I did. That really was the trip that started it all.

[2] What kind of traveler do you define yourself as?

I’m definitely a seasoned travelled at this point; more than 20 years on. I probably carried the title of backpacker many years ago but these days I’m definitely a luxury traveller. However, being a journalist as well, while I love to indulge in luxury activities, I still love wandering the street with my camera and talking to locals and I make sure I balance both on every trip I go on so I don’t miss the big picture.

[3] What do you love most about traveling?

I am always at my best when travelling. Even when times get tough, as they often do when you are travelling long term; its the challenge of getting out of a sticky situation or the resilience needed to move forward and get on with it that helps me grow. Travel really broadens your horizons in so many ways and I believe it makes us all better, more informed and compassionate global citizens.

[4] What do you dislike about traveling?

These days, I feel like it’s a shame that travelling has become somewhat of a competitive sport. The internet and social media has really shaped it to be that way, so that’s the part of travelling that I dislike the most. The country counting and run on to get the best Instagram photo instead of just “being” in a place and experiencing it. I feel like many “travellers” these days miss the point of travel.

[5] Why should people travel?

There’s nothing better for personal growth than travel. Many people grow up living quite insular lives; both the wealthy and the less wealthy. Travel opens your eyes to both those things we suffer and share universally and those that make us beautifully unique.

[6] What famous person would you like to travel with?

Photographer Steve McCurry.

[7] Travel essentials – 3 things you always travel with

My Canon DSLR, laptop and running shoes.

[8] If you’re a foodie, what's your favorite food city? Do you have a restaurant recommendation?

I lived in Barcelona when I was at university and still dream about the tapas at Cerveceria Catalana. It has become quite touristy since I used to go while living there, but I still go back whenever I’m in town.

[9] What's one location on your bucket list?

Greenland.

[10] Do you have a piece of advice for bloggers starting out?

Find the niche that you love and suits you and go with that. Also, learn SEO straight away. I have left that way too late and I’m playing catch up now which is making things much more complicated.

Skye's Lightning Round of Favorites

Airport: Changi, Singapore
Mode of Transportation: Bike
City or Country: Slovenia
Travel Gear: Canon DSLR
Travel snack: organic bananas
Book: The Alchemist
Movie: Midnight in Paris
Song: To Build a Home, The Cinematic Orchestra

Thanks Skye!

You can keep up with Skye on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and of course on her blog. Wherever you catch her, I am sure you will enjoy her travel adventures!

How about you? What would you like to know about Skye?

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