Justin Wiechnik

So there I was, lost in Idaho with two dirt bikes and the company of a guy named “Kasper” whom I had met only two days earlier camping in the Alberta Rockies. We were in search of sand dunes to ride when the talk about S.E Asia began.  It was the spring of 2007, I was at a cross roads in my life, I signed up for a Free and Easy trip and left a few weeks later. Who would have thought a conversation with a stranger would so drastically change my life!!?? I had the perception that Australia would be the most exciting place to back pack and was reassured that Australia is a good time however Asia would be a much better life choice (which I later found out). 

 My 40 day Free and Easy trip across Thailand in 07’was nothing short of mind blowing.  I immediately started to change my entire perspective on life and the world. I was fascinated with the amazing lifestyle of the Thai people. I couldn’t believe the natural ecstasy of the unspoiled beaches, jungles, and wildlife. The people I was meeting were inspiring me to try new things, go new places and most importantly they passed on the travel bug to me. After my 40-day trip I continued on for another 10 months exploring many Asian countries such as China, Indonesia, and Vietnam etc... as well as Australia and New Zealand. Now years later, I’ve had the opportunity to travel many different parts of the world and I still find myself going back to continue the expedition. I feel every person knows what it is in life they want most and for me it’s a combination of adventure, jungles, beaches, new friends, surf, hiking, etc. And it’s not crazy to say I can’t pursue this lifestyle because somehow I find myself doing it. Anyone can live any life they desire; the pursuit of happiness is very real.

I was raised in a small Alberta town. My parents started my passion for travelling and experiencing new cultures at an early age (who I thank and love very much for).  I played hockey and raced motocross, worked on the family ranch and every day I pictured a paradise that would be perfect for me which must exist. It hit me once I stepped foot onto the beach in Thailand that I had found what I had always dreamt of. I developed this personal lifestyle that I now presently entangle my life with of “staying out of the bubble”. I believe that anyone who has not had a backpacking experience, or whom has not challenged themselves to do something different and really be who they desire to be, is trapped in this bubble. This bubble isn’t hard to pop. The hardest part is leaving and once you get there you look back and laugh and thank yourself for booking the trip. Make a budget and just go, and get the most out of your trip, embark on a Free and Easy trip. 

Now that I’ve finished my degree from the University of Lethbridge I look forward to furthering myself by fulfilling my temptation to meet as many people of the world as I can and subsequently learn as much as possible from each individual. Free and Easy Traveler allows me to do this and in a manner that couldn’t be more rewarding, exciting, and fun!  I’m always looking forward to digging my toes into the perfect white sand beaches. Indulging in fresh Thai fruit surrounded by palm trees and a warm ocean breeze while laying in my hammock admiring the monkeys, sipping on an ice cold Chang Beer. Waking up knowing today I will be hanging out in one of the world’s most tranquil destinations with an awesome group of friends. Playing frisbee knowing that when the sun sets the epic party will still continue and never be forgotten. Pack your flip flops and a smile and I will see you in Paradise!