Yes, you read the title correctly. I want you to vacation in a developing or third world country. No, your mission trip to a small remote village is not what I am talking about, and signing up for the next medical or Habitat for Humanity trip is not entirely what I am suggesting, either. I challenge you to travel to a third-world or developing country for vacation and pleasure; travel to explore, relax, discover, and understand at least one foreign country most people do not place on their vacation go-to list for reasons such as fear, reputation, misinformation, historical beliefs, or downright ignorance.
Growing up as a Haitian-American, I was no stranger to visiting one of the most underdeveloped countries countries in the world. From visiting Haiti twice a year, to having the chance to travel to other developing countries such as Mexico and Indonesia, I easily recognized the beauty of unfamiliar, underprivileged places. For so many, developing countries are often nothing but poor, corrupt nations unsuitable for traveling. Yet for those who accept this challenge, you will soon learn that some of the poorest developing countries have the richest rewards once you visit, for the following reasons.
1. You will learn to leave what is familiar.
By traveling to a place outside your comfort zone, you are already taking a daring move and venturing out of your norm. This step can often be the hardest for most people, but if you can conquer this part, you can conquer the world (literally).
2. You will learn history and local traditions, and see sights that are typically not found in history books.
Reflect back on any world history class you have taken. Most of the time, lessons are centered on developed countries and their achievements. The culture and traditions of developing countries are often underrepresented, commonly unknown, or plagued by stereotypes. You will learn that most developing countries have a rich history and beautiful hidden sights.
Did you know that the world's only perfectly symmetrical volcano, Mont Mayon, is found in The Philippines?
Or, visit the capital of Angola, Luanda, to visit Cultural sites such as Forte São Miguel and view the colorful cultural houses.
3. You are able to see what the media does not show you.
Often the media portrays third-world countries in a negative light and fail to highlight the beauties of these types of countries. Rather than believing only what you see on CNN, MSNBC, and FOX News, take it upon yourself to discover the treasures of the country.
What the media shows you..... (Port-Au-Prince, Haiti)
What you can really find... (Beaches of Haiti)
4. More opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and meet locals.
Rather than be surrounded by thousands of other tourists and getting caught in tourist traps and expensive tours, vacationing in a developing country can often be a more intimate experience. Be sure to take the time to go to local markets and cultural sites, and really connect with any locals around your hotel, restaurants, and on the streets. Listen to their stories. Make an effort to learn to speak the language, even if you fail miserably. The locals will love you even more.
Put it upon yourself to explore local markets, like this textile market in Jaipur, India.
5. Parties are not typically characterized by hundreds of red solo cups, beer cans, and ping-pong balls.
Instead, they revolve around cultural tradition, music, dancing, and more. Most often, the party does not revolve around alcohol (okay well, maybe sometimes).
Check Out Brazil's Carnival, one of the biggest festivals in the world, which brings together people from all social classes. Carnival is characterized for its vibrant colors, dancers, and magnificent engineering. (Click the picture to find out more)
6. You learn to appreciate more.
After traveling to a developing country, you become more aware of the world around you. You come to understand that there is more to life than your daily routine and the United States of America. Often times, your vacation turns into a humbling and eye-opening experience. Realizing that it is a privilege to have running water, air conditioning, shopping malls, a car, and thousands of options at the tip of your fingertips can be one of the biggest revelations you can have. So, accept the challenge, grab your passport, and make your next vacation a place on this list...
List of Developing Countries Around the World as of 2014
