Traveling Without Sound

Like most people, I love traveling. However, I explore a soundless world—as I was born deaf. Although I can’t hear, I understand now, my other senses, such as smell and sight, have grown extremely sharp. For some time I thought this was normal, but as I encountered new people, and had new experiences during my travels, I came to realize that my perception was a bit different from others; something special. When I was cycling in Shima, Mie prefecture, I found a really nice beach and decided to pitch my tent there. As the sun was going down over the horizon I thought, “Wow, this is a breathtaking view!”

Later I found there were dozens of loud, screaming trucks passing behind me. Most people would have been annoyed by the noise, but I didn’t even notice it—I was too busy enjoying the stunning sunset.

Living without sound allows me to plunge myself into the scenery around me. I feel it’s a privilege, enabling me take more pleasure in places I like, where I can simply sit back, enjoy a cold beer and absorb the sights and smells around me.

Troll was born in Shimizu, Shizuoka. Despite having a hearing disability, she is an active traveler who enjoys following the endless horizon while mountain biking, telemarking, skiing and kayaking.