They say home is where the heart is, but the heart needs to wander, time and again, and witness the vastness of this beautiful world.
Since childhood, I’ve been an avid traveller. Even the idea of packing for a short leisurely trip gives me something to look forward to in my otherwise routine life. I believe that traveling opens you up, gives you newer perspectives in life, and most importantly humbles you down immensely. The more you meet new people, experience the warmth of their culture, the more you realize that this world is not such a bad place after all. Our lives are confined to our homes and offices, giving us very few opportunities to venture out of our houses and breathe in peace.
Some people find solace in shopping, some consider other forms of therapy to get a break from mundanity, while some believe in packing their bags and crossing oceans to become someone else for a while and live a whole new life.
I’ve been to the UK quite a few times in the past but this trip was special for way too many reasons. My children have now become my most favourite travel buddies, my husband and I have started to look at the world differently, and since I had taken a few new personal projects this year, this trip was like a treat at the end of all the hard work.
If you are wondering why I choose travelling as my way to reboot and refresh, here are all the reasons.
1) Change of place
Travelling isn’t just about the change of place but also about the person you become when you live in a different place for a few days. You become open to new experiences and that immensely widens your comfort zone.
2) Meeting new people
Travelling is a lot about connecting with new people. It boosts our confidence and makes us more sociable.
3) Understanding new cultures
When we travel, we are exposed to different cultures and ways of thinking, and that ultimately changes our view of the world. People from other countries are always inquisitive to know about our culture as much as we would love to know theirs. Sharing insights and having a chance to tell and hear the stories of our countries, our culture, and our lives allows us to develop empathy, compassion and respect for someone born in a completely different part of the world.
4) Grasping their life choices, the good ones
One major observation that I have made during most of my travel is, people around the globe are extremely punctual. Moreover, they make sure punctuality is ingrained in their children too. Apart from that, hey love their country, their language, and take special care to keep their surroundings clean. They are not very judgmental of tourists and that is something we should definitely learn from them.
5) Cuisine
I believe in eating well but am always open to experimenting with different cuisines. Wherever I travel I make sure I try the local food first. This time it was the famous Scottish pie, traditional haggis, and the delicious and soothing pea soup.
6) Beliefs
Taking example of Scotland, Tartan and Scottish kilts, known as the national dress of Scotland, have deep cultural and historical beliefs and is a sacred symbol of patriotism and honour for a true Scotsman. Every country has various beliefs that are deeply rooted in their culture and history. It always feels great to know more about them deeply.
7) Impact on our physical health
Travelling enhances our lives and can actually increase our life expectancy. I feel it makes us more energetic as it makes us happier and feels rewarding in the end. People who travel frequently are more satisfied with their physical health and mental wellbeing.
8) Impact on mental health
Travelling helps elevate our mood and reduces stress. It helps boost brain health by improving our productivity and creativity.
9) Helps us refresh and reboot
It makes us leave our worries behind. Most importantly, it keeps us away from TV and social media. It is such an immersive experience that it makes us feel more alive.
10) Changes our perspective about things
Lastly, getting away from our everyday life allows us to appreciate the little things we normally take for granted.
Guess you have all the reasons to plan a quick getaway soon. Got some interesting travel stories? Mention them in the comments below.