Travel is my passion and has been for as long as I can remember. If you’re reading this, I’m sure it’s a big part of your life too. I think back on my dreams of seeing the world as a child, how I asked for flights to California for my 13th birthday, and how I saved all the money from my summer job to go abroad for the first time in college. Travel continues to be a priority in my life because of its impact and invaluable lessons. It is the constant that I always turn to whether I’m on a high or dealing with a low.
Using Travel to Commemorate Milestones
I’ll never forget the trip I took to Iceland in 2017. It’s the first big trip I took after graduating college and gaining some experience in my career (aka finally making some money). I can still go back to the feelings I had stepping off that plane–joy at finally making it to my dream country after years of wanting to visit, excitement for what was to come, and this sense that the world isn’t as big as we think (which I mean in the best possible way). Your bucket list destinations are only a flight or two away and are waiting to be explored.
Travel is the perfect way to commemorate a milestone. For me in Iceland, I was celebrating my career that made the trip possible, but I was also taking time to make memories with a friend. There are so many moments in life that are special on their own but become unforgettable when paired with travel–falling in love, annual family get togethers, weddings, honeymoons, babymoons, new jobs, friendships, birthdays, anniversaries.
Using Travel When Life Doesn’t Go Your Way
Thankfully I’m usually on a trip under good circumstances, but travel is also there for me in the bad times. For example, let’s take something most of us go through in life but don’t always see coming–a break up. You’re often left feeling disoriented, unsure of who you are without your partner, and maybe even unlovable.
That’s how I found myself at the beginning of last year, and it’s what ultimately led me to planning my very first solo trip–31 days exploring the U.K. and Europe. I remember having some trouble in the beginning stages trying to decide what to do because I was so used to my partner dictating a large part of our plans and activities. I think back to the feeling of putting myself first, only saying yes to things I wanted to do, and rediscovering parts of myself in the process. It was empowering and something I would recommend to anyone going through a similar transition.
Traveling can be that reminder of beauty when everything else feels blue. I mean how long can your heart stay broken when you’re in Brussels surrounded by endless amounts of chocolate and craft beer? How down can you feel when you connect with like-minded souls in Edinburgh, have amazing conversations while hiking Arthur’s Seat, and essentially remember how awesome you are? Think about the confidence you gain when you’re exploring somewhere totally new on your own and don’t get lost. (I’m looking at you Amsterdam!) There are endless opportunities to heal and prove to ourselves that those negative things our former partner said about us just aren’t true.
“Not All Who Wander Are Lost”
Many people see those who travel as lost wanderers searching for something they can’t seem to find at home. Turning to travel in bad times doesn’t always mean a person is running away or trying to escape their problems. I would argue the opposite is true. Travel allows you to get closer to the version of yourself you want to be. The movement offers a much needed change in perspective, while taking time off allows for some stillness and a chance to reflect.
Let’s think about some things we all experience in life that totally suck. Maybe that’s dealing with a loved one passing away, going through a major heartbreak/divorce, losing a job, saying goodbye to a dream, and/or getting swept up in the negativity of the news/political divide. All things that can make us question our faith in humanity or second guess the journey we’re on. Turning to travel can help combat those tough times. Being out in the world reminds you that you’re alive and that you get to participate in life, which can be a helpful switch in perspective after dealing with a loss.
I personally think back to my head space when I was in India. I was feeling overwhelmed and a bit hopeless from all the negativity in the world, and the chaos of India didn’t seem to be great for my anxiety. But after meeting people there–other travelers in Jaipur, the woman who taught us how to cook in Udaipur, the young college student who showed us around Delhi, the tuk tuk drivers who had our safety in their hands on the crazy roads– I surrendered and put my trust in strangers. I was reminded that most people in this world are good no matter where we live or what language we speak or how much money we have. Through the chaos, I found exactly what I needed (or maybe it found me).
Closing Thoughts
I think the “secret sauce” that can make travel so special comes down to making time for yourself in the fast-paced world we live in. Giving yourself a chance to change your perspective or learn something new. Prioritizing yourself. Having some no-strings-attached fun! Travel is a way to solidify the good times in your memory and also heal from the bad times. There’s not a single trip I’ve taken that I regret, no matter what mindset I had going into it. If you find this blog on the precipice of booking a trip, I hope it’s the nudge you need to say yes!
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Traveling Solo Will Change Your Life
Beautifully said my friend and I could not agree more 🙂