Everyone who has traveled says the same thing when they get back from traveling: "I can't wait to go back!" So... why aren't we all traveling more? I have absolutely no idea, so here are 11 reasons to buy a plane ticket right now.
1. It's fun
This is probably the most important thing. Traveling is fun! I promise! Sure, a 6 hour plane ride doesn't sound like fun, but this 6 hour plane ride is bringing you to a new place with new opportunities and new ways to have fun. Plus, the worst part is definitely the flight back.
2. Educate Yourself
Learn more about the people of the world. New cultures and new people mean more opportunities to learn about others. Learning in the real world is so much different than a classroom (although you can do that too!).
3. Leave your Comfort Zone
Honestly? Fuck your comfort zone. Go a step ahead of just leaving your comfort zone: leave it at home. Go get lost in the city, go ziplining, skydiving, or go learn how to dance in public. Do one thing you would normally never do every day.
4. Network
You might not think about this one, especially if you're traveling for pleasure, but you can Network anywhere. When I visited London I actually met someone who was a pretty high up administrator at Oxford University, which was impressive considering I want to go into higher education. Who knew, right?
5. Food
ANYWHERE YOU GO, YOU WILL FIND AMAZING FOOD. I don't care if you only like the bland taste of cardboard and you go to India, you'll find something you love. I'm not going to lie, one of the best parts about going to London was having fish and chips.
6. Language
Immerse yourself in a new language. This is the best way to learn it. You are learning it from natives. It's incredible. Do it.
7. Experience
Go and experience these places you hear so much about. Go to the Eiffel tower at night. Go on the London Eye at sunset. Go to a pub in Dublin. Do it all.
8. Develop Cultural Sensitivity
The single best way to learn about a culture is to live it. Immerse yourself in a culture. Learn everything there is to learn about it. Do it justice.
9. Adventure
Like I said before... get lost in the city Go zip lining. Do something you normally wouldn't do. Go on an adventure. Do it.
10. Resume Builder
Schools and employers see travelers as people who understand the world. Travelers know about different world cultures and are typically more culturally sensitive (see: no. 8). Travelers are just incredible people that will get hired.
11. Discover Yourself
I learned more about myself when I spent a week in London than in the 20 years I had been alive before I went. I learned how I handle actual scary situations. I learned about how to navigate in a new place. I learned so much and I learned that not only can I do it, but I absolutely love every second of it.
Before you write yourself off by saying, "It's too expensive" check yourself, rewind, and start over. Use the internet. Get cheap flights, book your flight with a hotel and save money. Book multiple destinations at once. Fly over to Europe and travel by train the rest of the way, then fly back. It may be more expensive than driving somewhere in the States, but it's worth every. Single. Penny.
