Traveling can often be a solitary or superficial experience, dominated by crowded tourist attractions and fleeting moments captured through lenses. However, Glyn Evans, a seasoned traveler from Lincolnshire, U.K., defies this stereotype through his unique adventures with Traveleyes—a travel company that focuses on creating inclusive experiences for blind and visually impaired individuals. Founded by Amar Latif, who lost his sight at the age of 18, Traveleyes bridges the gap between sighted travelers and VIPs (visually impaired persons), fostering relationships and understanding that transcend the boundaries of conventional tourism.
What sets Traveleyes apart is its innovative approach: trips designed for both sighted travelers and those with visual impairments. This model not only provides visually impaired individuals a chance to explore the world but also encourages sighted companions like Evans to immerse themselves in genuine interactions and assist their peers in meaningful ways. This interaction is at the core of Traveleyes’ philosophy—an emphasis on equality and mutual enjoyment in the travel experience.
One particular moment that sticks with Evans is an impromptu wedding he participated in during a trip to Las Vegas. When a couple on the same tour decided to tie the knot on a whim, Evans took on the role of best man, highlighting the depth of connections formed on these journeys. The bride and groom, both visually impaired, provided Evans with a profound opportunity to contribute to their special day—an experience he describes as one of the best of his life.
This instance showcases the deeper emotional connections created in a travel environment where sighted travelers report not just the sights but also enrich the experiences of their visually impaired companions. In an age where travel often feels transactional, Traveleyes’ trips reveal the latent potential of shared human experiences and bonds formed through travel.
Traveleyes does not shy away from offering exhilarating travel experiences. From white-water rafting in Costa Rica to exploring the rich heritage of Peru, the adventures available are diverse and tantalizing. For instance, Evans recalls a thrilling safari in Eswatini where participants were granted the exhilarating opportunity to feed lions—an experience that left an indelible mark on his memory.
Moreover, Traveleyes emphasizes sensory engagement, offering activities where travelers can literally touch history—from ancient Incan artifacts to the Gothic architecture of cathedrals. These sensory moments foster not only inclusion but also create a more immersive environment where every traveler—sighted or not—can engage with their surroundings in unique ways.
Friendships that Transcend Boundaries
While activities and adventures are important, for Evans and many others, the friendships formed during these trips are paramount. He fondly recalls evenings spent chatting with fellow travelers over drinks, moments that offer joy and camaraderie that many might miss in traditional travel settings. This social aspect becomes a significant highlight, as it cultivates a sense of community and shared purpose among individuals who might not have crossed paths otherwise.
Their connections extend beyond the trips themselves, as Evans and his partner maintained relationships with fellow travelers, even hosting elaborate dinners for their Traveleyes friends. This celebration of community exemplifies how travel can facilitate enduring bonds—a notion that is often overlooked amidst the rush of sightseeing.
Evans’ experience guiding visually impaired travelers has also taught him the importance of communication and adaptability. Each individual requires a different approach—some desire detailed descriptions, while others prefer more casual conversations. Here, Evans’ approach is commendable; he tailors his interactions to suit the audience, creating a more enjoyable atmosphere for all involved.
Latif emphasizes the mutual independence that forms the backbone of the Traveleyes philosophy—sighted travelers are not caregivers but rather companions in exploration. By fostering a sense of equality among all participants, Traveleyes dismantles barriers that often impede blind individuals from engaging fully in travel experiences.
Through his experiences, Evans has come to appreciate that traveling with blind individuals offers a fresh perspective on the world around him. The necessity to describe sights and sounds encourages not just a deeper appreciation but also a more profound engagement with the moment. Rather than rushing through experiences, travelers learn to savor them, creating memories that are both vivid and lasting.
The journey of Glyn Evans and Traveleyes exemplifies a transformative approach to travel—one that champions inclusivity, camaraderie, and the unyielding human spirit. In a world often marked by isolation, such travels reaffirm our connectivity, reminding us that the joy of exploration is best when shared.