Adventure stories have the power to inspire us to explore, grow, and discover who we really are. But many classic adventure narratives—from pulp fiction to theme park attractions—were created during times when certain perspectives were overlooked or actively harmful. As we build Inner Isles, we're committed to capturing the excitement of adventure while being mindful of its complicated history.
Our Adventure Philosophy
Inner Isles draws inspiration from the universal human desire to explore, discover, and grow. We believe adventure is about stepping outside your comfort zone, facing challenges with courage, and returning home changed for the better. This timeless pattern belongs to all cultures and all people.
However, we recognize that many adventure stories have historically been told from a single perspective—often that of European explorers "discovering" places that were already home to indigenous peoples. We're working to tell adventure stories differently.
What We're Doing Differently
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Internal Adventure – Our expeditions focus on inner exploration and personal growth, not conquering external territories or peoples.
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Respectful Imagery – We avoid imagery that romanticizes colonialism, depicts indigenous peoples as obstacles, or treats sacred symbols as decorative elements.
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Universal Themes – We focus on experiences that transcend cultural boundaries: courage, curiosity, resilience, and connection.
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Inclusive Stories – We celebrate adventure stories from all cultures and backgrounds, recognizing that every tradition has its own heroes' journeys.
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Mindful Language – We avoid terms that carry colonial baggage and instead use language that honors the dignity of all peoples and places.
Problematic Tropes We Avoid
Classic adventure stories often relied on harmful stereotypes that we actively work to avoid:
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Depicting indigenous peoples as "primitive" obstacles to overcome
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Treating sacred cultural symbols as mysterious artifacts to be collected
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Romanticizing colonial "exploration" that displaced or harmed local communities
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Using orientalist imagery that reduces rich cultures to exotic stereotypes
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Presenting adventure as something only available to privileged explorers
Learning from Popular Adventure Experiences
Many people are drawn to classic adventure experiences—there's something magical about the idea of embarking on an adventure into the unknown. However, many traditional adventure narratives were built on colonial fantasies that depicted non-Western cultures as primitive and dangerous.
Instead of recreating those problematic narratives, we're working to capture what made adventure stories compelling in the first place: the thrill of discovery, the test of courage, and the transformation that comes from facing our fears. These themes don't require harmful stereotypes—they're universal human experiences that can inspire without causing harm.
How We Create Inclusive Adventure
Fantasy Settings – Our "Inner Isles" exist in an imaginary space that doesn't appropriate real places or cultures.
Metaphorical Journeys – Physical exploration becomes a metaphor for inner growth and self-discovery.
Collaborative Spirit – Adventure becomes about supporting each other rather than conquering territories.
Diverse Perspectives – We actively seek out adventure stories from different cultural traditions.
Ongoing Commitment
Creating inclusive adventure content is an ongoing process. We're always learning, and we recognize that we won't get everything right immediately. If you notice content that feels culturally insensitive or problematic, please reach out to us—we're committed to making this a space where everyone can feel the excitement of adventure without the harm of outdated stereotypes.
Adventure stories at their best remind us that we're all capable of growth, courage, and transformation. That's the spirit we're trying to capture here—one that honors the adventurous heart while respecting the dignity of all peoples and cultures.
Get In Touch
Have thoughts on how we can improve our approach to cultural sensitivity? We'd love to hear from you at hello@innerisles.club. Your perspective helps us build a better adventure for everyone.
Last Updated: July 6, 2025