Travel helps open your eyes to the world and transform your mind, soul and body. Experiencing different lands, foods and cultures changes the way you see the world, and how you see yourself. It’s important to take a break from the monotony or hustle and bustle of the day-to-day and push yourself out of your comfort zone into somewhere new.
Traveling provides a learning experience way past books or movies. Instead of watching or hearing about culture, you can see it first hand. You can participate in traditional activities and taste cuisine that you’ve never had the chance to try before. In doing so you are sure to also connect and learn from other people. Other tourists and the locals all have something to offer and teach you, but you can’t learn it from your couch.
And as you travel and learn about the places you visit, you will also learn about yourself. You will be forced out of your comfort zone and quickly realize your mental capacity, habits and emotions in new ways. Having to adapt to a new language or not being able to access the Internet easily will show you what you value as a person and what is truly important to you.
Less stress and more relaxation also allow you time with just yourself. You can think about your life, your goals and what changes you want to make for the better. In Spain, each day citizens take a siesta in the middle of the day to return home and have a large meal with family and friends. They value this time and it the most important meal of the day. You might find that partaking in this daily tradition helps open your eye while reflecting about your own traditions.
Backpacking through Europe is no doubt one of the best ways to experience a new part of the world and learn about you. Each country is so different from the next, each offer something completely different for your mind, body and taste buds. Mastering the tube in underground London is a mental challenge while enjoying the cafes in France is a totally cultural experience.
They say that travel is the only thing in life that you pay for, which makes you richer. Exploring regions like Europe is exciting to say the least. It will surely teach you about culture, the world and of course yourself. It will also, more likely than not, teach you to travel more.