Travel has stimulated, calmed, enriched and sustained me. It's sometimes high-maintenance, and often requires big bucks, but I can count on it to give back in countless ways. Travel keeps on giving, is never boring and never gets old. I love thee purely, travel. You've changed my life and made me a better person.
And here, an appreciation of a few of travel's generous offerings. You probably have a whole bunch more:
Escaping
Life is complicated, and we often get caught up in the minutia of work and relationships. For our own betterment we sometimes need to get away from the harsh realities of daily life, even for a few days. Travel is perhaps the greatest way to escape from routine; sometimes we desperately need a change of scene to get a better perspective on our daily lives and our environs.
Dreaming
I like the prep stage, before I travel; the planning part, which can be especially dreamy, and can last for months and even years. Next time you travel, take lots of time to plan, not just for practical purposes, but for anticipating and for dreaming as well.
Learning
When we leave our normal situations we're able to observe more thoroughly. We can read about things, but by seeing them for ourselves and acutely sensing new environs, we learn about the world, about others and about ourselves.
Revitalizing
We don't have to take a spa vacation to become refreshed and invigorated. Our minds clear, things are put into perspective, we often walk miles without even realizing it, and we usually sleep well when we take even a short getaway. Traveling with minimal stress can keep us alert and involved, and even extend our lives.
Meeting People
I don't go out of my way to meet new people when I'm at home; I have enough friends, real and virtual. But especially when I'm traveling on my own I find new people, new insights, a chance to expand horizons and meet others who teach me and inspire me from different places, who show me different ways of life.
Creating Photos
For many years I wrote guidebooks, and focused solely on words. I would hang around photographers, pointing out things which seemed photo-worthy. Yes, I enjoyed the moment without distraction, but later many moments faded. I would have loved capturing my experiences in photos, but was put off by the complications I perceived in taking them. No excuses any more (Thank you, Steve Jobs -- and smartphones).
I now take thousands of digital photos and hundreds of videos, and put up four a day on my Instagram gallery, every day (I'm "Travelea" there). What a joyous hobby, and a wonderful way to appreciate and share the wondrous things I've experienced.
Making Memories
After our trips are over, we're able to extend the pleasures of traveling through remembrance. A weekend sojourn can last a lifetime through memories. Sometimes I just close my eyes and return to an experience I especially enjoyed. I love that! And as you very probably do too -- I love travel!
