Why travel? 9 reasons I will never stop traveling

I’m not one of those people who can say they have visited 100 out of 195 countries. Not even close.
 
So far, I’ve been to Canada, Mexico, Ireland, Italy, India, Spain, the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, Turks and Caicos, St. Martin, and Germany (airport only, which doesn’t really count). Next month we’ll visit the UK for the first time (yay for London and Bath!).
 
A small fraction of this big, beautiful earth.
 
There is always more to see, more to do. Here’s why I will forever answer that call for adventure.
 
9 Reasons I Will Never Stop Traveling

1.  Exotic food.
​Okay, truth time: Food is one of the primary motivations for anything I do, but I especially look forward to sampling local delights when I travel. Buttery naan and expertly cooked curry in Agra. Hand-made and freshly caught squid ink pasta in Venice. Decadent churros con chocolat in Madrid. Hearty lamb stew in Killarney. OMG, I’m hungry. 

2.  New languages.
When I travel internationally, I enjoy challenging myself to learn some of the local language. At least enough to order food in a restaurant (see: reason #1 for traveling). I rely on phrase books and audio tapes to help guide me. 

3.  Unfamiliar terrain.
New landscapes are a fantastic change of scenery (pun intended), especially if the natural beauty or architecture is unique to the city or region. I’ll never forget the gracefully rolling hills and ancient castles of Ireland or the intimate cobblestone streets of Madrid. We can all use a break from what we see day in and day out. 

4.  History in abundance.
Here in the United States, our history doesn’t stretch as far back as other civilizations. I love getting lost in the history of another culture, imagining what life was like hundreds or even thousands of years ago.

5.  Breaking with routine.
It’s healthy to break through the monotony of our daily lives, to mix it up. It can open our eyes to new possibilities and recharge our spirit. 

6.  Experiencing another culture.
As Americans, we occasionally forget that we don’t *NEED* unlimited refills on our 64-ounce Cokes or drive-thru access to our meals. Other cultures are often better at slowing down, enjoying the moment, and appreciating the little things.

7.  New experiences for our children.
What better way to see how other people live than to experience it for oneself? I treasure the way travel gives our daughter a broader perspective and empathy for other people. 

8.  Using that old rusty brain.
When you’re plunged into an unfamiliar place, you put your brain to work by navigating, communicating with locals, and absorbing the sights and sounds. 

​9.  Treasured memories rather than things.
If I had to choose between a memorable trip and a bar of pure gold, guess which I would choose? Memories and experiences are priceless, and stay with us throughout our lives.

What do you love about travel? Which destinations are on your bucket list? Leave a comment!

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