Anyone who knows me can tell: I love to travel. If you say let's go, I'll throw my passport and toothbrush in a bag and ready to go.
In the past few years I had less possibility to go abroad, but this year I'm trying to fit in as much adventure as possible. For that reason I started in April with a two month hike through Spain (walking the Camino Frances, and the Camino Muxia-Fisterra), Portugal (on beautiful Rota Vincentina along the coast), ending in the island of Madeira. 60 days, 1612 kms and 2.123.449 steps in total, and a lot of learning about myself and what we are capable of if there is a will.
While this period seems to be a long time, I can assure you, you blink twice and it's gone. But all the memories and life-long experiences remains with you forever. And hopefully some friends too. I know not everyone is fortunate to get the possibility for a journey like this, but even a shorter holiday can be restorative and transformative to your well-being.
Travel is often seen as an escape from everyday life, but its impact goes far beyond just a break from routine. Embarking on journeys to new places can profoundly transform your life in ways you might not expect. Here’s how travel can shape and enrich your life.
Broadening your perspective
Travel exposes you to different cultures, lifestyles, and worldviews. It challenges your preconceived notions and broadens your understanding of the world.
Cultural immersion: experiencing different cultures firsthand allows you to appreciate diverse traditions, cuisines, languages, and customs. This can foster greater empathy and tolerance. On the way I managed to talk to all kinds of nations from Germany, through Mexico to Australia, and my best experience was that you can make friends with anyone without any prejudice.
Global awareness: seeing the world from various perspectives helps you understand global issues and the interconnectedness of different regions and societies. Many people came with different national backgrounds, mixed races, and all of them told about their backgrounds and perspectives about the world.
Personal growth and development
Travel pushes you out of your comfort zone, encouraging personal growth and self-discovery.
Independence and confidence: navigating unfamiliar environments, especially if traveling solo, builds self-reliance and confidence. I have been in groups where people were afraid to start their journey alone, but my best advice is to jump and try to take one step ahead every time to avoid overthinking and making yourself anxious about things that might not even happen.
Problem-solving skills: dealing with unexpected challenges, like language barriers or navigating public transport, enhances your problem-solving abilities and adaptability. Because let's be honest, anything can happen, but if you don't panic, rather look for solutions or ask for help, you will be surprised how quickly can a negative event turn into something positive. You will see the benefits later also in your everday life, having a fresh perspective on day to day issues is a blessing.
Self-discovery: travel gives you time and space to reflect on your life, aspirations, and values, often leading to profound personal insights. If you are travelling solo, you even have more possibilities for that. You will have the chance and the time to figure out things on your mind without the effect of your everyday circumstances and people surrounding you.
Minimalism: As much as we like to hoard personal belongings we have to realize from time to time, that less is often more. When you have to carry your whole life on your back for that long period, or even to pack for a week, you will loose the unnecessary things. And that can affect your relationships, your work too. Keep what is important for you and let go of what doeasn't serve you any more.
Strengthening relationships
Traveling with loved ones or meeting new people on your journeys can deepen your relationships and create lasting memories.
Bonding experiences: sharing new experiences with friends or family can strengthen your bonds and create a treasure trove of shared memories. Even years from now you will talk about the sweet moment you experienced together.
Better you, better relationships: I also met people who came to this journey for getting rid of bad habits, anxiety, to be a better version of themselves for their family.
Networking opportunities: meeting people from various backgrounds can expand your social and professional networks, providing new opportunities and friendships. Just step outside of your bubble and don't be afraid to talk to others. Don't know how to start a conversation? Ask for directions, ask if they are also going the same way as you are, ask about their home country, etc.
Improving mental health
Travel can be a powerful antidote to stress, anxiety, and burnout.
Stress relief: stepping away from daily routines and immersing yourself in new environments can provide a much-needed break, reducing stress and promoting relaxation. You can test and choose what would be your favourite: mountains and forests, or a sandy beach by the ocean? You might find out where to move next, to change your whole life.
Happiness and fulfillment: exploring new places and engaging in enjoyable activities and conversations can boost your mood and overall sense of happiness.
Enhancing creativity and inspiration
Experiencing new places and cultures can ignite your creativity and inspire new ideas.
Creative stimulation: new sights, sounds, and experiences can spark creativity, whether you’re an artist, writer, entrepreneur, or anyone in need of fresh ideas. Have you ever experienced that good ideas and best solutions pop up when you don't pay attention to the topic? Your subsconcious mind works all the time without you knowing of it.
Inspiration: many find inspiration in the natural beauty, architecture, art, and people they encounter while traveling. Maybe you can find a new hobby or a new way of living along the journey.
Expanding your horizons
Travel often opens doors to new opportunities and adventures you might not have considered before.
Career opportunities: exposure to different job markets and professional practices can inspire career changes or international job prospects. If you find out what makes you happy, you can explore your possibilities in that field upon your return home.
Learning new skills: whether it’s picking up a new language, cooking a local dish, or mastering a new sport, travel provides countless opportunities to learn and grow. I always love to learn a bit of the language of the country I'm travelling to. it gives me more confidence and independence, also people are friendlier if they see your are trying.
Creating lifelong memories
The experiences you gain from traveling become cherished memories that can last a lifetime.
Memorable moments: from witnessing breathtaking landscapes to engaging in local festivals, travel fills your life with unforgettable moments. I had many of these during these months, like witnessing beautiful sunrises or sunsets with friends, walking alone listening to the sounds of nature, laughing so hard my stomach hurt or cry happy tears whenever a chapter ends.
Storytelling: your travel adventures can provide endless stories to share with friends, family, and future generations. I am still in contact with some people from my camino and love to share our lives or recall memories.
Final thoughts
Travel is more than just a physical journey; it’s a journey of the mind and soul. It challenges you, enriches your life, and leaves you with memories and skills that last a lifetime. Whether you’re exploring a new country or a nearby town, the benefits of travel are immeasurable. So, pack your bags and embark on an adventure, your future self will thank you.
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