6 Reasons Why You Should Travel
Walking a cheetah
There is comfort in familiarity, but the familiar can also become boring. Here are a few reasons why you should travel away from the comforts of home.
1. To learn about other cultures
The most obvious reason to travel is to go somewhere new and learn about the culture in that place. Culture refers to the way people live and it includes food, music and history. It’s fascinating to learn why people in a certain region do things a certain way. For instance, when I visited Morocco, I was surprised to learn that Moroccans drink tea all year round. It turns out they drink mint tea in the summer to cool down and absinthe tea in the winter to warm up.
2. To open up your mind
If you do travel right, you should become more open-minded. You should learn that people do things differently. As the saying goes, there’s more than one way to skin a cat. The different ways are not necessarily better or worse.
3. To see the world
There’s so much to see in the world. From natural wonders like Victoria Falls (Mosi-oa-Tunya); to ancient wonders like Machu Picchu, Great Zimbabwe and the Pyramids; to modern wonders like the Space Needle and the Sydney Opera House.
4. To develop independence
Traveling requires planning and at least a minimal level of discipline. Visiting a new place away from home builds self-confidence as you navigate a new country sometimes in an unfamiliar language. This is even more true for solo travelers. You challenge yourself and become braver.
5. To get away from it all
Sometimes you just need to get some rest and relaxation away from home. Typical R&R for me involves sitting on a beach, soaking up the sun and reading a good book. The Caribbean has beautiful beaches as does French Polynesia. My favorite “get away from it all” place was the Sahara Desert. The peacefulness and quiet allowed me to quiet my mind and commune with myself. I left feeling rejuvenated and like a brand new person.
6. To have adventures
Parasailing in Aruba
It’s fun to try new experiences like going on safari, hang gliding, etc. One of the craziest things I ever did was jumping into the Southern Ocean off the coast of Antarctica.
Whatever your reason for traveling, looking forward to a trip makes every day life more bearable.
Live young and travel.
