The Parkour Passport and How To Use It

Written by Shashi Shekar

Shashi is a a parkour coach and content creator from Malaysia. IG & TikTok handle: @sanctumacademy.malaysia.

Whether you’re from a large country with a thriving parkour association or a small nation with a close tight-knit community, all travelling traceurs and freerunners are welcome almost anywhere in the world with the Parkour Passport. The kindness of strangers has helped me numerous times, and I too have hosted many travelling practitioners during their travels. Often, reaching out to local parkour communities at your travel destination can help you save a lot of money on accommodation, get a locals point of view of the country, access to secret eating spots often not on tourist websites, and of course a tour of the local parkour havens. Never assume that someone will host you. The local practitioners don't owe you that and you can't count on the kindness of strangers. But more often than not, you'll find that someone will offer it to you. For your ease, I have gathered a 6-step guide on how to use the Parkour Passport.

Step 1: Search ‘country name’ + parkour on Facebook

I know, I know. “Facebook? That’s for old people”. Yes, but predominantly most parkour communities can be easily found on Facebook. Of course, it helps if you or someone in your community already knows parkour practitioners at your travel destination. Otherwise, this is your best bet to get connected quickly with a network of practitioners ready to help and give advice.

Start by asking when would be the best time to travel (e.g travel fairs, Parkour Jams or events). You should not post in the group immediately asking for accommodations. Get your Visa sorted, and understand your time limit for tourist entry in the countries you’re visiting. This way, you’ll be able to plan your journey within a better budget by taking advantage of seasonal discounts. Mention that you’re backpacking to the Facebook group admin via chat/messenger and you’re hoping someone can help show you around the cool parkour spots

Step 2: Find the local messaging app

In every country I have travelled to, there was always an informal messaging group (e.g Whatsapp, Discord, Telegram etc) where the local community sends updates and plans their jams. In Malaysia, we use Whatsapp. The Facebook admin will usually send a message in the group asking if anyone is available to host you during your trip, and often will invite you into the group to get to know others as well. This is when you will get to know the local messaging app being used. By now, you should have a rough plan on how long you want to spend there and what would happen on a day-to-day basis. If you have to block off certain dates and times for prior engagements (e.g work, meeting family etc.), please inform them immediately. Otherwise, we will take the responsibility of managing your entire schedule while you’re here.

Step 3: Help us to help you

I have hosted travellers who are vegan, lactose-intolerant, and spice-intolerant. Knowing simple details such as dietary restrictions, places of interest, medical conditions, and your schedule will help us plan your trip better. We’ll be able to recommend good restaurants with affordable food, as well as provide travel advice to get to certain locations on your own if necessary. Some countries have a wide network of high-speed rails, while others have unique transportation methods (e.g tuktuks, rickshaws). Be clear with your plans and availability and when you would like to train and meet people. Help set expectations so the host knows if you're going to be with them the whole time or if you just need a place to crash. If you’re in luck, your host’s family might decide offer to prepare meals for you too. Hence, sharing these details will be of great assistance to both sides.

Step 4: Do your own research

As a host, I have been graced by well-mannered guests who did some reading into local customs. Certain unspoken rules such as ‘no shoes in the house’, ‘no crossed legs in front of elders’, or ‘no feet on the table or chairs’ were not strictly enforced on our guests, but it does go a long way to notice that our guests were naturally sensitive to our way of life. We try to be as open and welcoming to all, and we are always thankful for respectful guests.

Also, it doesn’t hurt to be prepared with extra cash in case you need to upgrade your accommodations without offending your hosts.

Pro-tip: Check the exchange rates and understand the cost of food and lodgings.

We understand that climate and facility standards may vary from country-to-country. Research ahead and avoid misunderstandings!

Step 5: Buy local

Not an absolute must-do, but definitely a good gesture. Local parkour communities often have gear such as self-designed t-shirts or wristbands waiting to be bought. It will be a great souvenir to remember your trip and I guarantee you that the community will remember kind gestures like this. Keep in mind that money works differently in different cultures. Many hosts won't accept any sort of payment, but it's always great to try and offer your gratitude somehow. Offer to pay for things, but if it's politely declined, don't insist.

 Step 6: Tell the world about us!

A ‘farewell and thank you’ post, a short video of the spots you visited, IG stories of your experiences, your pick! By the time you’re done with the trip, you would have met quite a lot of people and are now connected on multiple socials. A small gesture goes a long way to show appreciation. I would recommend tagging your host and the parkour community group in your posts on social media relevant to your trip. A short and well-meaning farewell post goes a long way with these newfound friends. In fact, you might even bump into other parkour travellers during your trip.

Now, you’re all set to use the Parkour Passport. Remember now, when in Rome, do as the Romans do. Getting a good reputation as a respectful parkour tourist can open up many opportunities to revisit and visit other countries. Some of the guests I have hosted were actually on a regional trip and planned their journey to coincide with seasonal offers as well as multiple parkour jams. Plan well to maximise your experience and stay hassle free.

All the best in your next adventure!