As a travel enthusiast, I got to meet a lot people from different backgrounds since I was small. It is kind of a family tradition for me and my parents to travel to somewhere we have never been at least once a year. Now that I am older, I want to travel alone and design my own getaways. The more I get involved in school, the less time I get to spend with myself.
I am a typical Leo who likes be surrounded by friends and be the center of attention, but I never like to settle down. I am 20, and to all college students out there -- I am sure you all have long to-do lists before graduating from college. Trust me, travelling should always be on your list. Doing things alone never means you are lonely. You will be surprised by what traveling alone can bring you.
You learn more about yourself with every trip you take.
Everything seems so strange to you when you walk on unfamiliar streets. It is the time for you to stop using your cell phone and appreciate the differences in this new place. Embrace the brand new culture or language you are about to explore. Never hide your curiosity. No one is going to judge you for being a tourist. So, let go of the burdens and weights you carry in school or at work. The moment you do, you will discover what truly makes you happy and some new interests that you actually like to do.
You are encouraged to step out of your comfort zone.
Do everything on your own. Take a train map and get on public transportation you have never been on. Never take the tourist tours. Indeed, you are a tourist but think of it as if you have been to this place before. Put yourself in the shoes of those local people. You will only have the true travel experience if you are willing to blend into their culture. You may not know their language but don't be afraid to ask for directions when you are lost. One thing I am positive about is that they always welcome tourists and culture that they are unfamiliar with.
You go on unexpected adventures.
Don't rely too much on your travel guide. Those are always typical 'must go' tourist spots that are said to be not missed. I would say for my past few trips to Japan and Korea, I tend to walk on streets tourists barely go, instead, I bring my camera and explore small corners and local places. I observe and get to know more about their lives. Sometimes, I wonder what it would be like to live their lives. I made several trips to Japan at different times.
When I was 10, all I wanted to do was basic girly things which are shopping and eat tons of delicious authentic Japanese food. When I was 15, I wanted to buy more, especially cosmetics. When I was 19, I didn't want to do any of those things. I travel not for the sake of shopping and eating food that cannot be found anywhere in the city. I travel to explore who I really am. I am curious about the stories behind people I probably can only get to meet for once in my entire life. They intrigue me in a lot of ways and what I am doing now?
I mature a little every time I come back from a trip. Looking through old pictures and train tickets in a different language, I went on too many unexpected journey that I can never dream about.
