Recently updated on April 22nd, 2025 at 09:56 am
When Josh entered our Trafalgar Unlocked Awards competition, he never imagined it would lead to the adventure of a lifetime. But luck was on his side, and he and his partner Rosie won a dream trip to Costa Rica. As part of Neurodiversity Celebration Week, we caught up with Josh to hear about his experience traveling as a neurodivergent person, his favorite travel moments, and what he wants others to understand about traveling with autism.
Josh, what are your favorite travel memories?
“Being in Tortuguero, which is situated in the middle of the rainforests of Costa Rica. It’s something I’ll never forget.”
Tortuguero National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most breathtaking regions, a place where nature reigns supreme. With its lush jungle, winding waterways, and abundant wildlife—including sea turtles that nest along its shores—it’s no surprise that this spot left a lasting impression on Josh. The serenity and immersive beauty of the rainforest made it a truly special highlight of his journey.
Where would your absolute dream destination be?
“Japan. Especially Kyoto, as I love Japanese gardens and maple & cherry trees.”
Japan’s harmonious blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation is a dream for many travelers. For Josh, Kyoto’s serene gardens, stunning cherry blossoms, and vibrant maple trees are particularly enticing, as it is for many – which is why spring is one of the most popular times to visit Japan.
Here are 5 essential things to know before you visit Japan, from our Japanese travel expert.
How did you feel when you and Rosie won places on the Trafalgar Unlocked Awards trip to Costa Rica?
“At first, I didn’t quite believe it, and assumed Rosie was playing a joke on me. Once it fully set in, we were very excited, especially as we had been saving for a holiday to Costa Rica.”
Winning a trip is an incredible surprise for any traveler, and for Josh and Rosie, it was a dream come true. It was an opportunity not just to explore a destination they had long wanted to visit, but to do so with the ease and support of a guided tour.
How was it meeting the other travelers?
“At first, I was nervous as I do suffer with social anxiety, but everyone was so friendly that it was really easy to mix with everyone. By the end of the trip, nobody wanted to say goodbye to each other.”
Group travel can sometimes feel daunting, especially for those who experience social anxiety, but Josh quickly found himself surrounded by warm, welcoming fellow travelers. A guided tour provides a structured yet social environment, making it easier to connect with others at a comfortable pace. By the trip’s end, those initial nerves had faded, replaced by newfound friendships and unforgettable shared memories.
Did the Trafalgar team help make you feel comfortable?
“From the get-go, our Travel Director Victor went out of his way to make sure that myself and the other travelers were comfortable, well informed of the day’s schedule, and hydrated. His knowledge was outstanding.”
A great guide, like our Travel Directors, can make all the difference, and Victor’s attention to detail ensured that everyone in the group felt cared for. From keeping travelers informed to making sure they were comfortable throughout the journey, his presence created a stress-free experience. For neurodivergent travelers like Josh, having clear communication and a well-structured itinerary made all the difference.
Is there anything you want other people to understand about traveling as a neurodivergent person?
“I find that when on a tour, when introducing yourself to the rest of the group, mentioning that you’re neurodivergent helps the other members of the group understand you better. So if you don’t seem interested or are quiet, that you may be overstimulated and need some space to process your thoughts.”
Traveling with autism or any form of neurodivergence comes with unique considerations, and Josh highlights the importance of communication. Simple awareness can foster understanding among fellow travelers, creating a more inclusive and accommodating experience for everyone. Whether it’s needing extra time to process a busy itinerary or preferring quieter moments, small acknowledgments can make a big impact.
Lastly, where’s on your list to travel to next?
“Rosie has her heart set on Mexico, but I keep finding myself looking at Albania. So I imagine that it will end up being one of those destinations.”
The world is full of incredible places to explore, and Josh and Rosie have their sights set on two very different but equally fascinating destinations. From the vibrant culture and ancient ruins of Mexico or the underrated natural beauty of Albania, their next adventure is bound to be just as memorable.
Josh’s experience shows that guided travel with Trafalgar is a supportive and enriching way to explore the world, especially for neurodivergent travelers. With a thoughtful team, a well-planned itinerary, and a welcoming travel group, the world feels a little more open—one adventure at a time.