45 of my travel learnings so far
Recently, I shared 45 of my life learnings so far when I turned 45 in April. A lot of the things which came to mind were also linked to travel so I decided to do a special travel one. Travel has been a big part of my 45 years even when I wasn’t able to travel, I was learning languages, reading books set abroad and also learning capitals when I was younger and getting others to test me.
Here are 45 of my learnings, what would yours be?
If travel is your dream then go for it, don’t let anything or anyone stand in your way
2. I have only regretted the trips I haven’t taken, never the ones I experienced
3. Travel solo at least once in your life as you will learn so much about yourself
4. Travel doesn’t need to be expensive: It is the choices we make along the way which makes it expensive or affordable. Save up before you go if you want luxury or if it is more important to just go then do just that and prioritise along the way
5. Be a tourist in your own town, region, country first if necessary
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6. Travel to discover, to let go of fears and to meet a variety of people, cultures and religions
7. Wherever you go, there you are: Some people travel to escape which is fine, however if you are trying to escape yourself then there is a slight problem as that is the one person you can’t escape. You may wish to deal with any issues you have before you travel unless you know for sure that travel will be good for your mental health and will help you.
8. The more you travel the more you will learn to trust your instincts and know quickly who you can and can’t trust: This ability will stay with you when you’re not travelling and is a great skill to develop.
9. Know when to speak and when to listen: Try to listen more than you talk. I’ve noticed a tendency in people to rush in to talk especially those who are on their own and aren’t used to it. You learn so much more when you listen to others and you also don’t give too much away when listening about yourself, views or where you’ll be staying etc. Through listening it is easier to know if you want to stay longer with someone to get to know them or if you prefer to rush off at the first opportunity depending on their words and attitudes they’ve expressed.
10. The best things in life are free: You can find things to do and see for free wherever you go. Don’t let money worries hold you back.
11. Walk around as much as you can: That is how you will meet people, get a sense of direction, smell the city and feel part of it. Walk around at different times of the day and night and in different weather if possible as it will present itself differently to you.
12. Listen to your body and mind: This way you will know what is best to do that day. Can you concentrate? Are you feeling energetic and up for a walk around or is it best to get transport around or sit with a coffee and and a book to relax. I’ve learnt to not plan too much into my days and to take a break when needed.
13. Do the self-care and healthy routines you would do at home as you will still need these whilst travelling as much as you would at home.
14. Question everything but don’t let fear make you complain/ criticise. Instead question yourself, who you are in that moment, what are you feeling, what does what your experiencing make you think of the situation. you could learn more this way.
15. Only haggle for the fun of it if it’s an expected part of the culture: Don’t take it too far. The seller will always need that difference you’ve haggled off the price more than you ever will. Don’t take them too far just to win or show off.
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16. You will learn what is most important to you: Travel will without a doubt change you. I don’t mean a 2 week all inclusive holiday unless of course you make life changing decisions. When you travel into the heart of a country and it’s people be prepared to have your values challenged and perhaps changed.
17. Always leave a place, person and relationship better than you found it