Ever since I can remember, I've had the travel bug in me. I love everything about it. From experiencing new cultures, to pushing myself to expand my horizons, I've learned more from traveling and exploring than I have from anything else. It is, hands down, one of my favorite things to do and I've learned so much from it. Here are the seven most important lessons I've taken from my adventures.
1. Planning is essential.
Some see planning as a hassle, and in all honesty, it is a lot of work. But if you do it right, then it can be a really fun part of the process! Looking at the sites you might possibly see and dreaming up your adventure can be so exciting. If you're not a planning type-of-person, however, then you should absolutely invest in a travel planner / agency. The cost of one is so worth it and it takes the stress of planning away.
2. But don't forget to be spontaneous.
Planning is necessary, but don't forget to put the itinerary down every now and then. An hour by hour schedule isn't needed and you should definitely allow for those special, unplanned moments.
3. Traveling is all about getting out of your comfort zone.
It can be scary at first...trust me, I know. Getting on the plane that will take you out of the country for the very first time is terrifying, going to a place where they speak another language is intimidating and even traveling to a new place near you can sometimes be daunting. As human beings, we like our comfort zone. It's a safe place. However, what I've realized from traveling is that some of my best memories are when I kicked my fears out the window and did something I would never usually do.
4. Do as the Romans do.
OK, so maybe you're not necessarily in Rome, but it's just a saying and the meaning behind it is so important. Basically, do what the natives do. Live like they do for that short time you're there. Eat their food, participate in their customs, surround yourself with their culture. You'll learn so much, not only about the area you're visiting, but about yourself.
5. Do as much as you can while you're there.
Make sure you get enough sleep so you have energy, but don't sleep the day away. Wake up early, get as much done as you can. Visit museums, squares, markets. Sight see as much as you can. Don't be afraid to be a tourist because, let's face it, you are one. It's not a bad thing and you'll get the most out of your trip if you don't worry about looking like one.
6. Travel with the people you love most.
Traveling by yourself or with strangers can be an adventure of its own and I definitely would recommend doing it at least once. That being said, there is no greater joy than experiencing an amazing journey with your family or best friends. It's an adventure you experience together, and a lot of times, it will bring you closer than you've ever been before.
7. Make a promise to return again.
Most of the time, you'll travel to a place and you'll fall in love. I have fallen in love with countless of cities, towns and countries all from visiting them one time. And as much as I tried to do everything I could while I was there, I knew one day I would want to return to do the things I didn't get to do and to reconnect with the people I met there. There is no rule that says once you travel somewhere, you can never go back. Always set your sights on something new, but remember where you've been. Each place has a different feeling and sense and reason you fell in love. Make plans to return there one day so you can feel that again.
Traveling is one of the most exhilarating feelings in the world. It'll put you places you've never been and will make you feel things you didn't even know you could feel. It can be painful and it may even break you at times, but you'll be a better person because of it. You'll make connections and experience new cultures. You'll learn that the world is a much bigger place than you could ever imagine and once you start traveling, you'll never want to stop.
