Sushant Marasini
Travel is about more than just enjoying a relaxing escape from everyday life. it is a chance to learn about yourself and the world around you. Consider some of the amazing ways that travel can impact your life in a positive way.
1. A Vacation Gives You a Break
Many Americans work long hours for a paycheck that, in reality, probably won’t get them too far ahead. Travel gives you the chance to break away from that daily grind and recharge. You get a chance to relax and recover from that overflowing schedule and just unwind.
It isn’t just your body that needs a break, either. Your mind is constantly scrambling in different directions, solving problems and managing tasks. Even a short break can help you feel rested, recharged and renewed. You might be surprised to learn how much more productive and upbeat you are after returning from a vacation.
2. Travel Lets You Explore New Things
That daily monotony can affect you in other ways, too. Take a minute to think back on the last time you did something completely new and different. It’s probably been a while, so what are you waiting for?
You don’t have to take a three-week tour to five different countries to explore the world. Even a weekend escape in a nearby city can help you get out there and see new things. You might consider scheduling a themed trip that is tailored to your interests and hobbies to make it more fun and impactful. Think of museum hopping, a wine-tasting tour or an agritourism weekend on a working farm.
3. It Takes You Out of Your Comfort Zone
There is nothing like going to a completely new place to take you out of your comfort zone -and fast. Travel has a way of pushing boundaries and making you find new facets of your personality. You might even uncover a few hidden talents as situations pop up and you find yourself tackling them in creative ways.
Food is a big area where travel can force you to try new things. When you head off to new lands, you may find yourself struggling to accommodate previously rigid food preferences. Instead of wallowing in misery, make an effort to sample the local cuisine. Even though they are available almost everywhere you go, resist the temptation to stop in at chain and fast food places you already know. Wander through fresh markets as you sample fresh ingredients and stop in at neighborhood cafes.
Communication is another way you may find yourself in unfamiliar territory. Yes, you can rely on your phone to give you directions to a local hot spot. But, why not simply ask a local? Chances are they know the best spots to find whatever you are looking for, and many are happy to point you in the right direction. Sure, you are opening yourself up for a possible rebuff. The person you approach could ignore you or be otherwise rude. You’ll never know unless you try, though, so go ahead and give it a shot.
4. Travel Lets You See New Places
Do you dream of seeing new and far off places? Why just dream about them? Travel offers an excellent way to see them up close and personal. Some vacations offer more opportunities to see new places than others. Take repositioning cruises, for example.
Don’t fret if you can’t head off across the country or world. Even a simple change of scenery can have huge benefits. Find a nearby state or national park and head out for a few days in nature to really get a change of background and pace. The extra vitamin D and fresh air can give your health and immunity a nice boost.
5. It Cultivates Awareness and Empathy
When you spend time in new places, you are exposed to different cultures and viewpoints. Embracing these ideas and values allow you to grow your cultural awareness, expand your empathy for others and develop your emotional intelligence. Those can serve you well in every aspect of your life and relationships.
There are many benefits to travel. It allows you a chance to learn new things about yourself and the world around you.
