Any phrase with the word “travel” or “vacation” is my favorite phrase to hear. I have been blessed with the opportunity to travel around the world since I was little and for that I am beyond grateful. I believe exploring different places in the world has taught me more about life than a classroom ever could. I do understand that some people simply do not get the same opportunity to travel as often or as far around the world as others, but if the chance to travel presents itself, always say yes. Even if the place is not at the top of your bucket list, or doesn’t seem the most insta-worthy, you are always going to gain something from visiting a new place.
There is so much to learn about different parts of the world and staying in the same bubble your whole life is not the way to do it. It is a good way to get out of your comfort zone and try something new. Traveling means dipping your toes into a new culture which will always mean you’re going to try things you never have before. You’ll get to try a new food, see new architecture, and live like a different person for the time you are there.
My diverse world view and ability to connect with many different people from all parts of the world comes from the places I have travelled, not from my world geography or history class. You may think you know the different parts of the world, but there are so many little details and aspects to the culture and daily life of those places that simply cannot be taught in a bright, fluorescent-lit classroom while sitting in a chair and looking at a screen. You truly have to be there and immerse yourself.
I personally know so many people that would be content with going on the same vacation every year and never trying to go anywhere else. In fact, the thought never even crosses their mind. No, there is nothing wrong with that and if you are that person, it is pretty understandable. What if there are sketchy people? Or you get lost? Or you hate it and just want to go home? There are so many “what if’s.” But there are many famous quotes along the lines of: “you’ll always regret the chances you didn’t take and the places you didn’t see and the experiences you turned down,” and I couldn’t agree more. The thought of going somewhere you’ve never been before seems downright scary, but boy is it worth it. You learn so much about the world and also yourself. It may seem small, but it is an experience that will help shape you. You’ll be able to connect with different types of people for the rest of your life through the different connections and memories you make.
I have always valued my experiences more than materialistic items. I would so much rather go visit a new country, or explore a new beautiful place, than buy myself something expensive I don’t even need. The experience of traveling and visiting new places is invaluable to me because it teaches me so much. I highly encourage everyone to take a trip to a foreign country, or study abroad, or save up some money to visit a new place, no matter how far away (everything counts!). So take every opportunity to explore some bomb-ass places and always say YES to traveling, you really don’t want to miss out!