Why Travel is the Best Investment in Yourself
“Traveling is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.”
Why I Travel and Why You Should Too
Entering a section of Humayun’s Tomb site in New Delhi, India
This quote resonates deeply with me because travel enriches life in ways that money simply cannot. For me, it means gaining personal growth, experiencing invaluable moments, and expanding my wisdom.
What is Travel?
According to the Scholastic Children’s Dictionary, travel is:
To go from one place to another, to take a trip.
To pass or move: to be transmitted.
Interestingly, the word “travel” comes from the Old French word travailler, meaning “to suffer, to be troubled, to be worn out.” Hundreds of years ago, travel was a difficult and often dangerous endeavor. While modern travel has become more accessible, its ability to transform and challenge us remains timeless.
Why I Travel
Traveling is an integral part of my life. I have traveled to 20+ countries thus far. My family and friends often ask, “When’s your next trip and too where?”. I’ve set a personal goal to explore a new city (domestic or international)at least once every three months. It’s my way of staying connected with the world while nurturing my mind and spirit. Here are the core reasons why I prioritize travel:
1. It Grounds Me
Traveling helps me reset and stay connected to my roots. I visited Jamaica for a few week, so long that it felt like I had practically moved there! It was peaceful and relaxing to return to my birth country, immerse myself in the culture, and reconnect with my heritage. I enjoyed eating real, unprocessed fresh foods and challenged myself to learn how to scuba dive into the same waters my ancestors once waded in. The experience was humbling and grounding. Though I was a visitor indirectly, it felt like home, and the peace I found there was unmatched.
Learning about scuba diving equipment during my PADI Open Water Diving certification class.
2. It Recharges My Mind
Seeing a Jamaica Flag on Heimaey Island — an island south of mainland Iceland.
Our mental health is just as important as our physical health. I often tell my family and friends how vital it is to recharge mentally. When I travel, the change in scenery provides a much-needed mental reset. Whether it’s a walk along a beach or exploring a bustling city, the experiences leave me feeling refreshed and ready to tackle life’s challenges. I have found that hiking and any outdoor exploration recharges my mind. One trip that completely recharged me was to Iceland— the fresh crisp air, exploring the godly beautiful landscape to snorkeling between two continents at Silfra Fissure.
3. It Fuels Creativity and Expands Perspective
Travel inspires me in ways nothing else can. On a trip to Japan, I discovered how respectful and organized the Japanese people are and how they move as one. After returning, I adopted simple habits like standing on one side of the escalator to be mindful of others and enforcing more structure in my daily life. Another unforgettable experience was visiting an onsen (hot spring). At an onsen’s, you bathe extremely nude with others in the hot spring. Though I was initially nervous, it expanded my perspective on cultural traditions and strengthened my connection to Japanese culture.
Basic travel photography tips!
4. It’s a Gateway to New Cultures
Boat ride on the Ganges River!
Each destination offers a glimpse into a way of life that is different from my own. From the foods people eat to their traditions and values, there’s so much to learn and appreciate. In Bali, I learned how symbolic temples are to Indonesians. Each family has a temple for their household, village, and public worship, with every temple playing a vital role in spiritual life. Families dedicate a significant portion of their income to maintaining these sacred spaces, reflecting their deep cultural and spiritual values.
Travel isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it!
There’s something magical about stepping into the unknown for me. Whether it’s hiking a new trail or navigating a foreign city, travel satisfies my curiosity and sense of adventure. It pushes me to embrace new experiences and relish the thrill of discovery.
I will note that traveling isn’t always easy. It pushes me out of my comfort zone, whether it’s learning a few phrases in another language, figuring out local transportation, or simply adapting to a new environment. These challenges make me more resilient and adaptable, preparing me for life’s uncertainties.
The Importance of Travel
The reasons people travel may vary, but some common motivations include:
Exploration and Adventure: Discovering the unknown.
Relaxation and Escapism: Taking a break from the routine.
Cultural Learning: Gaining new perspectives and understanding.