Choosing the Ideal Travel Companion

Some adventurers never hit the road without their trusty adventure buddy!

Everyone has a few essentials they can’t leave behind. For instance, Yousry Benayoun, an extensively traveled teacher, musician, and artist, always carries his notebook for sketches and writing, and if he can’t bring along a stringed instrument, he’ll at least pack his harmonica.

However, what matters most is that he tries to take along his steadfast travel companion, his sister Deanna. Together, Yousry and Deanna have explored four continents, visiting places like Namibia and South Africa, Greece, Spain, Peru, and even spending time together on their respective coasts in the United States.

Through their journeys, the siblings have discovered why they make such a fantastic travel duo. Yousry has shared insights on what to seek in a travel companion to enhance your adventures!

Sharing Similar Interests

It might seem like a no-brainer, but a key reason Yousry and his sister make such great travel partners is their shared interests. “We both love music, food, and staying active,” he notes. 

In Greece, on the island of Crete, Yousry brought along his mandolin but was unsure if their travel group would appreciate it. However, Deanna often encouraged him to play, adding a delightful soundtrack to their adventures that enhanced their experiences. 

And then there’s the food aspect. While Yousry follows a pescatarian diet, he happily bought some exotic jerky in Namibia for his sister—how about wildebeest?—because he shares her passion for trying new cuisines. They also explored street vendors in Lima, tasting traditional Peruvian breakfast sandwiches. Later, while hiking in Peru, they both chose to forgo the option of riding donkeys up the final steep mile of the mountain, opting instead to “hoof it” because they both enjoyed the challenge!

Select a travel companion who: shares your interests so you can discover new experiences together.  

Choosing Your Destinations

Another reason for their travel compatibility is that their adventurous styles align perfectly; both remain open-minded and adaptable. “Many of the travel choices we make stem from conversations with locals,” Yousry shares. “As a result, we often find ourselves planning new adventures just a few days in advance.” For instance, while in Peru, they were relaxing in a Lima hostel (playing guitar) and debating their next destination—should they explore some enticing towns in Chile or head north toward Ecuador?

However, rumors circulated about the breathtaking beauty of Colca Canyon, so they decided to book a flight south. Just days later, they found themselves hiking and camping amidst the stunning stepped terraces of one of the world's deepest canyons, home to both alpacas and the magnificent Andean condors.

Choose a travel partner who: aligns with your travel style, whether you prefer spontaneity or careful planning. 

A Thrill for Adventure

Some travelers are more inclined to stretch their limits beyond their comfort zones than others, making it essential for adventure seekers to find like-minded companions! In Namibia, Yousry and Deanna set their sights on witnessing the renowned sand dunes along the coast. However, these remote marvels were a five-hour drive away, accessible only by specific vehicles along partially paved roads leading into the barren desert. “There were a few concerns to consider,” he recalled. 

What did they decide to do? They rented the last available SUV, cranked up the music, and sped down the highway! They barely arrived at their campsite before dark, but as they sprinted and leaped down the world’s tallest sand dune the following morning, they unanimously agreed it was worth the effort. Later, they drove for hours to a nature reserve, where they encountered giraffes, zebras, impalas, and even a lion; both significant time investments that truly paid off.

Choose a travel partner who: is eager to dedicate time and effort to adventures just like you!