Finances seem to be a main factor as to why we travel as often/infrequently as we do. Also, time is precious, and it can be difficult to request time off from work, school, and commitments.
One thing I wish I would have done in undergraduate school was to study abroad. Many of my friends took the opportunity to temporarily study in another country, or even to travel for fun. I was nervous (and careless) with my finances in my early 20s, so I always felt like I was too broke to travel.
I have recently decided to spend less on material things and spend more on experiences. I enjoy concerts, social outings, and wine tastings.... But I love to travel! I love majestic scenery, meeting new people, and the attractions/activities in other parts of the world are so appealing to me... And of course the social scene and food :)
(Also read: Finding Balance http://hitatalk.blogspot.com/2014/02/finding-balance.html?m=1)
One of my goals for 2014 was to take at least 3 trips (domestic) and plan for an international trip. Thankfully, I have amazing family and friends across several states that welcome me to stay with them, and give me more reason to "impluse buy" a flight as opposed to shop for a pair of shoes or jeans that I truly don't need. The international trip takes a little more research and savings. I would like visit Egypt, Dubai, Africa, Brazil, India, Thailand, South Korea, London, Paris, Rome, and Fiji. Uuff, Sounds like I may need that lottery to help :)
Las Vegas is always a fun city for me! I can't go wrong with Florida, and of course California is my #1 "go-to" place. But HOW is that I've never been to New York!? The Today Show is waiting for me! Well, not to worry friends, I will be making my first trip to the Big Apple this summer as a 30th Birthday gift to myself. Total so far in 2014: that will be 4 trips :) Mission accomplished!? Well...I think I will keep it ongoing.
Are YOU also Longing to Travel?
One of my favorite travel reads is: "Longing to Travel," http://longingtotravel.wordpress.com/
This is a great source for those looking for educational insight, tips/tricks, lodging advice, reviews, etc. The blog is created by a young, married couple and close friends of mine, Pouneh and Chris, who share their personal experiences from their worldwide adventures, and future plans.
Traveling can add up, so I have to plan for the initial big spend of booking the flight. Then, lodging is another priority. Through many recommendations by friends, I will be using "Air BnB" to find a nice and affordable place to stay without breaking the bank or being on the outskirts of all the action.
Trip itinerary: I don't mean the flight number and departure/arrival times. I mean the FUN stuff! What TO DO when we travel? For a true "vacation" I love the all-inclusive packages for my tropical destinations. For other activities, I research the hot spots, landmarks, and recommendations from friends.
I love to explore, hike, and dance. Therefore, I try to plan ahead or have ideas to do some sightseeing where I go, then find a well-known location to hike and enjoy the beautiful view, maybe go on a few excursions, and later on grab a bite to eat and join the nightlife.
I find that my travel experiences are rather healthy. I have a chance to take a short break from "reality" to unwind and destress. It allows me to be vulnerable and try new things, meet new people, and demonstrate my social skills or ability to think/act independently. I love sunrises and sunsets, so anywhere I can go with breathtaking scenery is a happy place for me. The diversity in our country is amazing, so I would like to see for myself how different cultures live and interact. I also like to keep myself educated by learning the history behind the places I travel to. And of course, trying different food is definitely a given.
The world has so much to offer, and I don't want to miss opportunities to experience them. Traveling solo is something I would like to try one day (a tad intimidating, but I can do it), and traveling with those I love is always enjoyable.
In a nutshell, I highly encourage you to travel. Travel to a new town (even if you drive a few hours), hop on a flight and visit a new state, or save a few extra dollars and venture overseas. You will learn a lot about yourself, others, and our amazing world.
