Throw A Dart & Travel Where It Lands
Ready To Do Something Spontaneous?
What if you could take the ultimate leap into the unknown and embark on an adventure that’s completely spontaneous? Instead of carefully planning your next vacation or weekend getaway, why not let fate decide where you’ll go? With a dart, a map, and a little bit of courage, you can embrace the thrill of the unknown and create an unforgettable journey. Here’s your guide to throwing a dart at a map and traveling to wherever it lands.
Get Your Map: Prepare for Spontaneity
What You’ll Need:
A Large World Map (a physical one or a printed map on paper)
You can find large maps at office supply stores, online, or print one from a website like National Geographic or MapTiler.
Alternatively, you could use an interactive map from Google Maps if you’re playing virtually!
A Dartboard or a Piece of Paper for Throwing the Dart
If you have a dartboard, great! If not, just mark areas on a large map or a piece of paper with a set of coordinates for your dart’s target.
Pro Tip: If you’re not comfortable with the idea of a dart throwing straight into a country or ocean (which could happen depending on your luck), create boundaries on the map—land masses only—or add fun rules like “Stay within the continent” or “Only choose countries that are on the coast.”
A Blindfold (Optional): For maximum spontaneity and excitement, blindfold yourself before throwing the dart. Not knowing where it will land is all part of the fun.
Take the Leap: Throw Your Dart!
Now comes the thrilling moment. Step back, clear your mind, and throw your dart! If you miss the map entirely, that’s okay—just aim again. Once it lands, look closely at where it’s pointed. It could be the start of a new adventure you never saw coming!
Considerations:
If it lands in a city, country, or continent that you recognize, awesome! You’re already one step closer to planning your spontaneous trip.
If it lands in the middle of the ocean, remote location, or an uninhabited area, take it as an opportunity to get creative! Choose a nearby place to visit or use it as an excuse to go for a nearby island, an uncharted place in nature, or perhaps even a new city within reach.
Do Your Research: Learn About Your Destination
Resources for Research:
Google Search: Type in the country, city, or location that the dart landed on. You’ll quickly find information about the local culture, landmarks, food, and the best things to do.
Travel Blogs and Vlogs: There’s a wealth of knowledge from travelers who have already visited. Websites like Nomadic Matt, Lonely Planet, and YouTube travel channels are perfect for spontaneous ideas and hidden gems.
Instagram: Search the hashtag or geotag of your destination to see what’s happening right now and get instant visual inspiration. Follow local influencers or guides to get insider tips.
Fun Ideas to Dive Deeper:
Get Inspired by Local Cuisine: Before you go, look up local foods from the destination your dart landed on. Find a local restaurant or try making it yourself at home to get yourself in the travel mood.
Cultural Insights: Read up on customs and local traditions to help you get immersed before you even arrive.
Travel: Embrace the Spontaneity
Book a flight to the nearest major airport to your dart destination. From there, you can take a bus, train, or rental car to explore.
Embrace Local Transportation: Once you land, take a local mode of transport like a bus, tuk-tuk, or bike to immerse yourself in the journey. The slower pace will allow you to discover more along the way.
Book Your Accommodation on the Fly: Use apps like Airbnb or Booking.com to book your stay once you arrive. Keep it flexible and let your journey guide you!
Document Your Adventure: Create Your Own Travel Story
Ways to Document Your Journey:
Travel Journal: Write down everything you experience—food, people, places. Take photos, stick in tickets or postcards, and document your thoughts as you go.
Instagram Stories: Share your adventure in real-time. Tag your location and use hashtags to share your journey with others.
Create a Blog or Vlog: If you’re feeling ambitious, start a travel blog or vlog to share your dart-guided journey with the world.