All of my Talking Travel interview guests have big travel plans, but Alyssa Carson tops all. Her ideal destination is more than 100 million miles away.

A 24-year-old astrobiologist, Carson has dreamt and planned for a trip to Mars since childhood. When she was 7, she attended her first space camp in Huntsville, Alabama. Since then, she attended every NASA space camp, the only person to do so. She obtained her pilot’s license and is taking every step possible to obtain her goal.

A trip to Mars wouldn’t be a typical vacation, but Carson still discussed the similar aspects. The other aspects, including travel time and distance, do not intimidate Carson. In fact, like any travel lover, Carson embraces all.

Mars isn’t the only destination on Carson’s mind. Already having traveled to many countries, Carson still has a long list of future places to visit.

While a trip to Mars might seem improbable, Carson disagrees. She also spoke of possible space travel through private sector sources. After listening to Carson, I see much more potential than I originally saw.

As a world traveler who has otherworldly goals, Carson brought a unique perspective on travel. She might not make it to Mars, but I am sure she will continue to accumulate plenty of miles on Earth.

Talking Travel is an interview series on Global Traveler. Subscribe to the GT YouTube channel to be notified of all future interviews and other travel-related videos.

— John Wroblewski, podcaster