Finding myself through travel - exploring the world at 57

An inspiring story of Sangeeta Vijay Wakchaure (Khyaal Club Member)

“My name is Sangeeta Vijay Wakchaure and I am 57 years old. I was born and brought up in Rajgurunagar, a small village near Pune. I completed my schooling and graduation there itself. Later, I did my Master’s in Chemistry from Pune University. My love for sports and physical education led me to pursue a Master’s in Physical Education from Aurangabad University, followed by a PhD from Shivaji University, Kolhapur. I started my professional career in 1995. Today, I work as the Director of Physical Education in a senior college in Pune.

From a young age, sports shaped my thinking and my discipline. I played Kho Kho and Kabaddi as a child and later took up athletics in college. Sports also brought travel into my life. Travel was not easy in those days. Long bus journeys and crowded trains were common. Still, I enjoyed every trip. Without realising it, travel quietly became a part of who I was.

For many years, life revolved around work and family. My son’s education came first. Since he was also a sportsperson, we travelled to many cities for his tournaments. After his matches, we would stay back for a few days and explore the place. That was how travel continued in small ways. In 2010, after his board exams, we planned our first international trip. It was a Grand Europe tour. That journey changed something inside me. It opened my mind and heart. It made me realise how much I truly loved travelling and discovering the world.

I usually plan our trips around holidays. But eventually, my son became busy with his own career, and I decided not to pause my travel. Time felt precious. I believed that as long as my health supported me, I should live fully. So, I started travelling solo. My first solo domestic trip was to Ladakh after the age of 50. Later, I travelled solo internationally to Turkey. So far, I have travelled to 33 countries. Every place has its own beauty, but Europe, New Zealand, Croatia, and Morocco remain very close to my heart. Canada, the longest country I travelled through, is still one of my most memorable experiences. But even after seeing so many countries, India feels very special to me. Our diversity is unmatched, and every state feels like a new country. The food, culture, climate, language and people change everywhere. I especially love Sikkim and Darjeeling, along with Manali and Rajasthan. Travelling across India after 50 taught me respect for our roots and simple living.

Travel means much more to me now. It is not only about seeing places. It is about understanding people and cultures. It also helps me understand myself. Solo travel built my confidence slowly. I remember feeling unsure during my first Europe trip. Today, I confidently plan my own journeys and dream of even more challenging destinations. Writing has also become an important part of my travel life. I love writing about my experiences because it helps me to relive them. In the future, I wish to spend more time in one place. I want to observe daily life there closely and write with more depth. Travel has also taught me to value memories. After my phone hung during my New Zealand trip and I lost my photos, I returned to the old method. Now, I take fewer photographs and get them printed.

Life, however, was not always smooth. I went through Covid. I had a ligament tear and a slipped disc. But I never stopped. Last year at the age of 56, I did bungee jumping in New Zealand after my slipped disc. Many younger people hesitated but I trusted myself. I listened to my body and trusted my strength. I wanted to do it, so I did it. That moment gave me immense confidence. I even framed my bungee jumping photo and hung it in my hall. It reminds me daily that limits exist only in the mind. I have also trekked in Bhutan and tried activities like rock climbing, river rafting, and underwater sports, all after turning 50. For me, age has never decided my dreams. I believe it never should.

Health and fitness support me every day. I start my mornings with yoga and end my evenings with a one-hour walk. Movement keeps me active and confident. Good planning has also helped me travel consistently. I plan my trips carefully around the academic calendar. I use Diwali and summer vacations for international travel and short leaves for domestic trips. That is how I manage to do four tours in a year. Financial independence also played an important role. I fund my own trips and plan my finances well. I make separate savings and fixed deposits only for travel. This gives me immense freedom to travel anywhere in the world. These habits give me the confidence to travel without any fear.

Along with work and travel, I make time for my other passions too. Acting is one of them. I have acted in the Marathi movie Hirkani and in five short films. Gardening also brings me peace. I have around 80 plants at home. Taking care of them calms my mind and keeps me grounded.

I came to know about Khyaal 50 Above 50 through Facebook. Initially, I was hesitant. But after seeing Rohini ji, I felt a sense of trust. I registered and spoke to the team. When I was informed that I was selected as one of the finalists, I was truly happy and surprised. I never expected such recognition at a national level. It felt very special. Attending the 50 Above 50 event was a beautiful experience. It felt wonderful to be among seniors who were being celebrated for their journeys. Khyaal has created a platform where seniors feel seen, valued and appreciated. That recognition matters a lot. This time, I was a finalist. Next time, I will surely try to be a winner.

After the Khyaal competition, my tours continued. I visited Bhorgiri near Pune and Diveagar in the Konkan region. I also completed an international tour covering Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. My upcoming plans include Meghalaya, the North East states, Canada, the Arctic region, and Antarctica next year. My target is to visit all 195 countries in the world. And to see each country in all its seasons. I know it is hard, but not impossible.

One piece of advice for my fellow seniors: Believe in yourself and take that step forward. As ‘Ichigo ichi’ means, every moment is precious, so live it with courage, joy, and gratitude.” - Sangeeta Vijay Wakchaure (Khyaal Club Member)