Understanding the Essence of Travel

Holidaying is very different from ‘travelling’. The aim of a holiday is usually to reconnect with friends and loved ones, have some fun, and return home refreshed and ready to embrace daily life again. While holidays often take place in villas and resorts, we frequently return to our favorite holiday destinations. Indeed, everyone deserves a holiday now and then!

Travel, on the other hand, involves removing yourself from familiar spaces and immersing yourself in a completely new environment. It’s not just about the destination; it’s about the journey and the experiences you accumulate along the way. Discover why travel can change you, and how to maximize your experiences.

What Defines a ‘Traveller’?

The notion of a ‘traveller’ has evolved beyond traditional stereotypes. Today, you don’t have to embark on an lengthy overland journey to consider yourself a traveller. You may even find enriching travel experiences within your own country.

According to a recent survey of over 7500 iBestTravel fans, 92% believe that travel offers opportunities for positive change. Whether personal growth or influencing change in others, travel undeniably leaves a lasting impact.

Reasons to Travel

In our sometimes divided world, travel serves as a reminder that we all share this planet, albeit in different ways. Readers articulate that travelling provides chances to broaden perspectives and learn from diverse cultures. Moreover, it connects us with various communities, allowing us to break free from stereotypes often portrayed by the media.

A significant 60% of respondents from the survey stated they view travel as a conduit for personal growth, suggesting that self-improvement through travel is a burgeoning priority. A common theme among our readers is that travelling enhances confidence. Each venture outside your comfort zone boosts self-reliance. For instance, being lost in Peru, with the only bank card swallowed by the ATM, can feel daunting at the moment. However, the skills gained from resolving such situations build lasting confidence.

Maximizing Your Travel Experiences

Regardless of your budget, destination, or aspirations, countless avenues exist for transformative travel experiences.

1. Explore Your Own Country

A substantial 66% of iBestTravel fans believe that the experience matters more than the destination. You needn’t venture far to broaden your horizons, and, as 68% of participants indicated, a growing awareness of sustainable travel urges us to minimize flights whenever possible. Domestic travel enables you to see your own surroundings through a new lens and recognize that even in your homeland, people often lead different lives than yours. For city dwellers, a journey into the countryside can offer fresh air and tranquility, while those used to rural life should immerse themselves in the vibrancy and hustle of urban settings.

2. Understand the Darker Aspects of History

It is crucial to acknowledge the somber histories associated with certain locations. While travel encompasses joyful moments, it’s important to visit sites that have experienced atrocities. Such experiences, when approached with respect, compel us to confront historical truths. Certain sites, like the Choeung Ek Killing Field near Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, USA serve as vital educational memorials, ensuring that such histories are not forgotten.

3. Connect with New People

Whether travelling alone, as a couple, or in a group, the likelihood of meeting people on your journey is high. Engaging with locals or fellow travelers often creates lasting memories and connections, keeping the spirit of that place alive long after you’ve returned home. For those who are shy or anxious about social interactions, the prospect of initiating conversations with new people can be daunting. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to connect with others while travelling, and you may find that discussing shared experiences becomes one of your most cherished memories.

4. Embrace Culture Shock

Let yourself be fully immersed in the sights, sounds, and scents of your travel destinations. Navigate the bustling markets of Marrakesh, barter with gestures in Madagascar, or stay in a traditional Gur Buudal in Mongolia’s Khövsgöl Nuur National Park. These experiences can be eye-opening and may help you recognize shared human experiences that connect us all. Moreover, you might come to appreciate the privileges of your own life, gaining a profound sense of gratitude for your home environment.