I have always considered myself an adventurer in all aspects of life. I tend to thrive on curiosityand find it impossible to stay in one place without getting bored. This might be what ignited my love for traveling.

I am not a world-class traveler. I do not even own a passport – yet. From my experiences in the cities I have visited, I know that exploring is something I hope to do for the rest of my life. This past summer I was fortunate enough to spend 10 days in the beautiful landscapes of Arizona and Utah. If you have traveled anywhere and the view was enough to take your breath away, or even change your perspectives, you can relate.

1. Your problems are not as heavy as they may feel. There is nothing like escaping reality to make you realize that what may seem like the end of the world really is not.

2. Be present. It is easier said than done, but there is no use living in the past or worrying about the future. All that matters is what is happening in this moment.

3. Never be afraid to try something new. No matter where you travel to, you will most likely have the opportunity to step outside of your comfort zone. For me, it happened at Zion National Park in Utah where I hiked five miles upstream through the Virgin River. Although the hike was rigorous and challenging, the views were spectacular, and it was an experience I will never forget.

4. There is more to life than that town you might feel stuck in. It was the end of summer when I traveled to the midwest and I was restless waiting to get back to college. Familiarizing myself with a new place took my mind off the everyday grind I faced at home. I felt refreshed and free of anything I was preoccupied with before.

5. Learn to appreciate change. I think it is easy to get wrapped up in what we are used to. Experiencing a different culture opens yourself to a new way of thinking. You learn to accept people and their customs in all forms, despite differences that may exist.

Along with all of this, I know one thing to be true: if given the chance again, I would not think twice about packing my bags and going anywhere the road takes me.