Travel is costly. The incredible growth of travel and tourism may have provided more options so that it can cost less, but the word “cheap” is really a misleading term. Interest alone will not take you places; you have to save for it. In rich nations where people don’t need to spend their hard-earned money to the last cent for basic needs, travel can be a part of their lifestyle. In the third world countries, travel remains to be a luxury.
Yet, it cannot be denied that travel has its perks. Nearly half of the Americans believe it is not a luxury, rather a necessity according to TravelEffect. Lea Lane explains why a traveler should not feel guilty and not be a reluctant traveler when the opportunity comes knocking. This is what she said in her article Yes, Travel Is Extraordinarily Good For You: Experts Show How And Why posted in Forbes – Lifestyle Section.
“Surveys from the Global Coalition on Aging show that even after vacationing only a day or two, 89 percent of people are able to relax and leave work stressors behind. Not surprisingly, the survey also shows that group travel builds social ties, which studies suggest help nurtures interest in life-long learning. And small groups are especially able to deliver personal interactions; whether enjoying a picnic lunch by a vista, or encounters with local families during home-hosted lunches and dinners.”
Why is travel good for you and must be pursued, if you can afford it?
According to the Physical Activity Guidelines Advisory Committee (cited in the article), active travel, in particular, has been proven to effectively lower the risks for certain age or metabolism-related disorders such as hypertension, diabetes, breast and colon cancer, coronary diseases, and even depression.
The paybacks on the physical and mental health and the social benefits of travel are affirmed by the US Travel Association. People who cycle often enjoy healthy mental wellbeing as well according to Preventive Medicine.
Travel goes beyond health benefits.
Being in a different place and discovering novel things can make your senses sharper. It awakens your interest and kicks your brain to focus on what you see, hear, smell, taste, and feel. A scenic and tranquil place can make your body and mind relax. Experiencing new cultures, colorful and happy places and events can transform your perspectives. Travel can give you new insights about places, people and cultures. Travel motivates and inspires you.
In the article The Benefits of Traveling by Thomas Bernier of iNeedMotivation, he talked about how “It lets us open our minds to new things and we get to experience life in exiting different ways.”
Bernier enumerated and explained these benefits.
- Traveling gives us the opportunity to disconnect from our regular life…
- Another great benefit is the relaxation you get to do…
- Traveling increases our knowledge and widens our perspective…
- New experiences increase our resourcefulness by living situations you would never encounter at home, this is great experience for you when you come back to your routine…
- When traveling with friends or family it creates memories for a lifetime…
Yes, travel is expensive, but who says you have to take a plane to travel or to stay in 5-star hotels? Modern travel continues to create a plethora of options for those who wish to see places, meet people and experience life away from home, for all kinds of budgets and interests.
If you have no travel companions, venturing on your own will not only empower you, it is liberating and fun. For apprehensive female solo travelers, good and safety planning is the way to go. There are numerous ways to travel solo.
If you have a big family, multigenerational travel is hot and it is fun even for kids. Your travel agent can offer you numerous options so you can enjoy discounts and perks here and there.
If you have someone who has impairment, welcome to the age of savvy travel; this is one time when it is made more accessible for everyone. Accessible transportations and hotels are continuously innovated for you. Just plan and make early bookings and travel arrangements so there will be lesser problems to bug you while “on the road.”
In Lea Lane’s words…”So however you go, know that it’s not only fun, it’s damn good for you! What are you waiting for?”
