Valuable Lessons from a Big Trip
Whether it’s a gap year after finishing school, a well-earned sabbatical from work, or an overseas adventure in celebration of your retirement, a big trip is a rite of passage for every traveler. There are myriad life lessons to be learned along the way.
From planning to packing, takeoff to touchdown, and resolving pre-trip worries, navigating the nuances of long-term travel can be an enriching journey. Here’s what seasoned travelers have learned during their adventures.
On Staying Safe on the Road…
My First Roman Holiday
As if I wasn’t worried enough by my first trip overseas, I had to read about the potential dangers in tourist destinations like Rome. The guidance on thefts around Stazione Termini heightened my anticipation of trouble. However, upon arrival, I quickly learned that not everything is as it seems.
Catching the train from the airport, I eyed the couple opposite me, convinced they were thieves. To my surprise, they offered me some delicious cheese instead. It demonstrated the importance of maintaining perspective and being cautious yet open to positive interactions with strangers.
The expression ‘taken with a grain of salt’ is particularly relevant. Paranoia should be tempered with a sense of humor, as kindness from strangers can often surprise and delight.
George Dunford
On Traveling with Friends…
My First Friends Episode
On a whim, my friend Linda and I decided to visit New York together. The trip was filled with laughter and memorable experiences, yet it posed challenges to our friendship. Spending 24/7 together naturally tested our patience.
Despite the occasional snoring incidents and moments of illness, we still managed to share our interests while exploring the city in our own ways. Travelling with friends can bring people closer together while also allowing for necessary moments of solitude.
Jane Ormond
On Working Abroad…
My First English Patients
While working in a job I disliked, I stumbled upon a teaching opportunity in Japan that changed my life. I found great joy in teaching kindergarten and primary school students, discovering that educating others can simultaneously enrich your travel experience.
Each country brought unique challenges, from assigning English names in China to late-night karaoke sessions in Japan. Each experience not only deepened my understanding of different cultures but also honed my adaptability and creativity.
Adam Stanford
On Expectations…
My First Passage to India
Upon landing in Mumbai, I was prepared for chaos based on what others had warned me about. Surprisingly, I arrived to a surprisingly quiet airport. My initial expectations were shattered as I discovered the city was not the overwhelming place I anticipated, highlighting the importance of keeping an open mind while traveling.
The initial experience of interacting with a street vendor marked my entry into the vibrant culture of India. Embracing the unexpected often leads to the most memorable experiences.
Rose Mulready
On Traveling Solo…
Learning to Love Solitude
Sipping Malbec in Mendoza, Argentina, I found solace in my own company. The experience of traveling solo allowed me to rediscover my identity and strength. Escaping grief and uncertainty through travel provided me the courage to explore the world, starting a journey rich with self-discovery.
This journey taught me the importance of embracing solitude. It was during these quiet moments that I truly felt alive and empowered.
Abigail Butcher
