Does travel make you happy? For most of us it does. We enjoy discovering new cultures, new ideas, new people and new food. Travel gives us the pleasure of discovery and the joy of meeting new people. It connects us to history of ourselves and our world.
Travel expands our mind and our spirit. It is usually a wonderful educational experience to meet new people with different ideas, different foods, or a different outlook on life. You can find vibrant cultures and cities or quiet beautiful countryside. Traveling is one of the best ways to learn more about yourself. Every day traveling brings a new set of issues and opportunities. The way you handle those also gives you insight into who you are. You’ll know yourself and your ability to handle things better, and with a fresh perspective on what you want out of life.
We see things through an expanded understanding of our world. If I had never been to Africa, I would never have appreciated running water as much as I do now. I would never have understood some of the hardships others face, thus giving me an appreciation of all I have. There are so many other cultures, landscapes, ideas and experiences available around the world and our own country. We just have to go there and open our minds to other experiences.
In our own country, we can experience history, the big cities, the small rural towns, the vast countryside. We can see beautiful waterfalls, visit museums and art galleries, ride horses in the water or in the fields. We can have a gourmet meal or local cuisine. We can experience many beautiful or fun things – the Grand Canyon, the family reaction to a funny happening, etc. Making memories is experiencing the joy in discovery or sharing the simple things with others.
Recalling memories of happiness can sustain a feeling of contentment long after the moment has passed. New experiences are memories that can stick with you forever. Every destination or experience has something to teach or remember. Immersing yourself in what you are doing is a great learning experience.
So, plan an experience now! You will learn many things!