Sonia Cruz Oro: Discovering Yourself Through Travel

“Everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you’re climbing it.” — Andy Rooney

Guest Introduction: 

Welcome to Exploring the Seasons of Life: Travel Edition. I’m Cindy MacMillan, and I’m so glad you’re here. If you’ve felt the weight of the to-do list or the ache of longing for something more—something that stirs your soul—you’re in the right place.

Travel, for me, has never been just about places on a map. It’s about a deep breath as you watch the sun dip below the horizon. It’s the quiet thrill of curiosity as you step onto unfamiliar soil. It’s the feeling of being alive, connected, and open to the world.

My own journey began long ago in a 5th-grade classroom, where a simple Kodak slide projector awakened something in me—a longing for beauty, for wonder, for more. That same longing lives in me today, and I know it lives in you too.

This podcast is an invitation to pause, to listen, and to dream about what’s possible when you step outside your comfort zone. Whether it’s a river cruise, an expedition to wild places, or simply the courage to say “yes” to your next adventure, I’m here to walk alongside you.

Let’s explore together.

Now, it’s my pleasure to welcome today’s guest, Sonia Cruz Oro.

Here’s a glimpse of our conversation: 

9:26 The fear of the unknown, what will happen if I suddenly stop and I take my time to do this trip or to do this exploration because it's an exploration of the world, but also it's an exploration inwards.

13:36 When we travel, we break out of our automatic routines and become more present and aware. Instead of repeating the past, we gain the clarity to make new choices. We pay closer attention to our surroundings because our brain isn’t on autopilot, assuming it already knows everything.

15:30 When we’re inside a jar of jam, we can’t read the label, right? Stepping outside gives us a new perspective, allowing us to see things more clearly. This shift in perspective is powerful, but it’s important to approach it consciously. Having someone to guide you can help you fully embrace this new point of view.

17:36 When people hear "transformational travel," they often think it requires a drastic life change—but that’s not true. You don’t have to quit your job, leave everything behind, or meditate like a monk in Tibet. Transformation can happen in small, meaningful ways through mindful travel experiences.

27:23 If you feel the call to adventure—the hero’s or heroine’s journey—you need to answer it. That inner voice is there for a reason.  The timing is right because if it weren’t, you wouldn’t feel this pull to travel and explore. When the desire arises, it’s the moment to act. And if you’re unsure how to make it happen, you don’t have to do it alone—help is always available.

You can find Sonia Cruz Oro at:

Website | Instagram

Thank you so much for joining me on Exploring the Seasons of Life: Travel Edition. I’m Cindy MacMillan, and you can find me at PangeaWorldTravelAgency.com. If you enjoyed this episode—and I truly hope you did—be sure to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

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If you’re dreaming about your next cruise or adventure, I’m here to help make it a reality! Visit linktr.ee/CindyMacMillan to get started. Let’s plan your perfect journey together.

Until next time, keep exploring, stay curious, and take care!