Interview with Arkadiusz Patla conducted by Halina Rosa
Halina Rosa: Arkadiusz, you’re about to embark on quite an adventure, walking to the Santiago De Compostela. What inspired you to undertake this journey?
Arkadiusz Patla: Hello, Halina. Yes, indeed, it’s an exciting time for me. The inspiration for this journey comes from a combination of factors. Firstly, my love for travel has always been a driving force in my life. Exploring new places, and experiencing different cultures, it’s something that truly enriches my soul. Secondly, Santiago de Compostela has a rich history and spiritual significance. The idea of walking in the footsteps of pilgrims who have traversed this path for centuries is incredibly compelling to me. It’s a journey of self-discovery, reflection, and personal growth.
Halina Rosa: Your parents seem to have played a significant role in nurturing your passion for travel. Can you tell us more about their influence on your journey?
Arkadiusz Patla: Absolutely. My parents have been incredibly supportive throughout my life, especially when it comes to my travels. They instilled in me a sense of curiosity and adventure from a young age. Even though our family trips were more modest in scale back then, they sparked my fascination with the world beyond my immediate surroundings. As I grew older and ventured out on my own, they continued to encourage me, whether it was exploring new destinations or pursuing my passion for cooking, which often goes hand in hand with travel experiences.
Halina Rosa: Can you tell us what inspired you to embark on this journey with your girlfriend Natalia Stelmiszewska?
Arkadiusz Patla: Traveling together has always been a cornerstone of our relationship. It’s a way for us to connect, grow, and create lasting memories. Embarking on the Santiago de Compostela together symbolizes our commitment to supporting each other through challenges and triumphs, strengthening our bond as we navigate this meaningful journey side by side.
Halina Rosa: Your YouTube channel, POLISHMANTRAVEL, has gained quite a following. How do you plan to incorporate your Santiago de Compostela journey into your content?
Arkadiusz Patla: The Santiago the Compostela is a profoundly personal journey, but it’s also one that I’m excited to share with my audience. Through my YouTube channel, I hope to provide a glimpse into the challenges, triumphs, and moments of beauty that I encounter along the way. From breathtaking landscapes to meaningful encounters with fellow pilgrims, there’s no shortage of stories to tell. I want to capture the essence of the Santiago de Compostela experience and inspire others to embark on their own adventures, whether it’s on foot or through vicarious exploration.
Halina Rosa: Your packing list for this journey seems comprehensive. How did you decide what to bring along, considering the varied terrain and weather conditions you’ll encounter?
Arkadiusz Patla: Packing for a journey like this requires careful consideration. I aimed to strike a balance between essential gear and keeping my load manageable. The key was versatility and prioritizing items that would serve me well in different situations. From durable clothing suitable for long days of walking to essential tech gear for documenting my experiences, every item had to earn its place in my backpack. Of course, I also made sure to include some personal comforts to make the journey more enjoyable, like a cozy sleeping bag and my favorite snacks for energy on the road.
Halina Rosa: What message would you like to share with your supporters and fellow adventurers as you embark on this pilgrimage?
Arkadiusz Patla: To all my supporters and fellow adventurers, I want to express my gratitude for accompanying me on this journey, both figuratively and literally. Your encouragement and enthusiasm fuel my passion for exploration and storytelling. As I walk the Santiago de Compostela, I carry with me the collective spirit of camaraderie and discovery that binds us together as travelers. May we all find moments of clarity, connection, and wonder along our respective paths, and may our adventures continue to inspire and uplift one another. Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey.
Halina Rosa: you’ve received honorary patronage from the Marshal of the Lubusz Voivodeship, Marcin Jabłoński, as well as support from the Mayor of Szprotawa, Mirosław Gąsik. Could you elaborate on what this patronage means to you and how it will support your journey?
Arkadiusz Patla: Indeed, I am deeply honored to have received the patronage of Marshal Marcin Jabłoński and Mayor Mirosław Gąsik. Their support signifies recognition of the significance of this journey, not just for me, but also for our community and region. Their endorsement provides me with encouragement and motivation as I embark on this pilgrimage. Additionally, their support helps raise awareness of the cultural and historical importance of the Camino de Santiago, both locally and beyond.
‘HR: That’s wonderful to hear. Now, let’s talk about the Foundation for Supporting Culture and International Cooperation named after Halina Rosa, which you mentioned earlier. How did your collaboration with this foundation come about, and what role will they play in supporting your journey?
Arkadiusz Patla: My collaboration with the Foundation for Supporting Culture and International Cooperation named after Halina Rosa is a testament to the power of partnerships in promoting cultural exchange and understanding. The foundation shares my passion for exploring new horizons and fostering connections between people from different backgrounds. Through their support, I will have the opportunity to document and share my experiences along the Santiago de Compostela, contributing to a greater dialogue about the importance of cultural heritage and global cooperation.
https://www.youtube.com/@polishmantravel7554
30.04.2024 Stockholm
