I can’t count how many good reasons exist on why it’s important to travel, but I’ll say some based on my experience. For 19 years old, I’m extremely fortunate to have travelled as much as I have. My parents, family, church, etc. have blessed me with opportunities to have been to 16 states and 6 other countries.

Travelling brings many things with the experience- perspective, inspiration, knowledge, creativity and so much more. All of these things are valuable to human existence and connections we make. The ability to make art and/or appreciate it. The observance of a new culture. The sound of a new language and the people speaking it.

Perspective

Travelling to a new place- no matter where- there will be a different lifestyle to experience. Even if you just travel to the other side of the town you already live in, or if you travel to the other side of the world. You can always look at things in a different way and step in someone else’s shoes. When you experience a place the way someone else does, especially someone from where you go, it changes your outlook on your own lifestyle. Not necessarily in a good or a bad way. But a change occurs. I have loved gaining perspective from everywhere- from being on a busy street in Chicago, to a rich shopping mall in Paris, to an impoverished neighborhood in Mexico. Gaining perspective never hurts; it only makes us grow.

Inspiration

Being in a new setting, seeing new things, gaining that perspective- it’s inspiring. I don’t know about you, but when I’m somewhere new or somewhere I love, I can’t fight my urges to read, write, sing, play music, paint and do the things I truly love. Not only do you become inspired by the things you see, but also by people you encounter, foods you eat and places you visit.

Knowledge

With touring and seeing, comes knowledge. And I’m not just talking about visiting educational museums or going on the “learning tours”... because you can learn such a large amount by simply being there. Wherever it is. It’s a significant feeling when a destination comes up in conversation, a question about it and you know the answer- because you’ve been there. Not in a conceited or arrogant sense, but rather in a gratifying way.

Many other insights come along with the importance of travel, but it’s amazing to step out of your shell and experience someone else’s. Travel isn’t always cheap, but the experience you gain is absolutely priceless. Adventure awaits.