Travel is the act of moving between distant geographical locations. It may be done by foot, bicycle, automobile, bus, train, ship or airplane. Travel can be for business, leisure, or education. Travel may be a one way trip or round trip.
When we are young travel is sensory and simple. There’s that white-knuckle feeling of the plane taking off, the giddy whirl of your stomach as you spin in your seat on an escalator, the sustained hyper-real sensation that everything is brighter, more colorful, smells more strange. As we age, however, our reasons for traveling become more complicated. It’s an escape from cubical drudgery, a sun-soaked interlude between Real Life, or a chance to visit relatives who live far away. Then there are the more nebulous reasons, like an interest in learning about other cultures or an urge to test our boundaries and overcome fears.
Whether we are taking a road trip to a national park or flying halfway around the world to see a temple, travel can give us perspective on our own lives. It can help us to be kinder and more open to others and to be grateful for what we have. It can also teach us that there are no limits to what we can achieve if we work hard and set our minds to it.
For those who dream of travelling, it’s important to realize that it’s not impossible, even if you have a tight schedule or a limited budget. There are tons of apps out there to help you find a flight deal or figure out how much to save for your next vacation. And if you’re worried about the security of your money, there are always alternatives to banks and credit cards that offer peace of mind while you’re on the road.
If you’re looking to make your travel more sustainable, consider booking accommodations that don’t contribute to overtourism. You can also reduce your carbon footprint by using public transportation or rideshare apps when possible. Traveling with a group or staying at hostels is a great way to meet people and get to know a place.
Remember that when you’re traveling, it’s important not to judge other lifestyles or opinions. Learn about a new culture and listen to other perspectives without assuming you’re right or that you’re better than them. This will keep your travels more enjoyable and less stressful.