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Travel Narratives , Solo Female Travel , Travel Inspiration
Personal essay: why i love traveling so much.
FMTC Affiliate Disclosure: Blond Wayfarer contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This disclosure pertains to all affiliate links.
Updated: 26 April 2023
Even at first glance, it is so obvious to everyone who meets me that I love traveling. The idea of travel, packing my bags and disappearing to someplace new, lives inside the brain allllll the time. I mean, I spend my spare time on Google flights, haha.
Not to mention, whenever I meet someone for the first time or even encounter an old friend, I instantly want to talk about my upcoming trips, ask about their own adventures, share embarrassing and funny travel stories, and swap bucket list ideas.
And yeah, I’ll admit it. I’m probably a little annoying to my non-traveling friends and acquaintances, but I can’t help myself. My “wanderlusty” passion seeps through my pores, out of my control.
Passion is a good thing, I guess?
A few years ago, on my 29th birthday, I wrote about 29 Ways Travel Changes You forever. I know that ever since I started my solo adventures, I slowly morphed into a far more spontaneous, well-rounded, and grateful person. I used to freak out at plans changing or sudden cancellations, but now, disruption to my routine just rolls off my shoulders.
Although I still stand by the ideas in that post, I wanted to return to my “graduate school” roots and felt inspired to write an entire essay explaining why I love traveling so much, haha. I know it is stating the obvious in many ways, but sometimes we all need a little dose of inspiration, especially after the stress and uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic that put global travel on hold for nearly two years.
Exploring the world costs time and money (not to mention, boarding planes stresses me to the max!) so the trade-offs need to be worth it, right?
Table of Contents
“I Love to Travel Because” — A Complete Essay
Okay, full disclosure , some of the reasons why I love traveling are totally superficial and shallow.
I mean, think about it. Travel makes you look cool. For instance, an ongoing joke about dating apps (haha) is that every single profile professes a deep love of travel. It’s damn near cliche at this point. And I understand why.
I also love to travel, because being in a new place means I’m allow to indulge and spoil myself. Pampering myself has become even more important on solo trips in my 30s , honestly.
I mean, isn’t it nice to eat a lot of delicious food, explore museums stuffed with world class art, and capture the perfect Instagram shot on top of a mountain crowned in a pink sunrise’s glow? Of course!
However, all jokes aside, I love to travel for deeper personal reasons, too. The experiences go far beyond pretty pictures and a full stomach.
I deeply believe travel makes you richer, not in your wallet, but in your intelligence and compassion. Not to mention, roaming this planet makes you realize your full potential and helps you learn what makes you truly happy. Let’s break it down.
Travel is My Passion
Life without passion is a prison sentence, in my opinion. Each day blends together until they are identical.
Wake up. Go to work. Eat dinner. Watch television. Sleep.
Time slips away without accomplishing anything. Not good.
We’re all on this earth for a deeper purpose. We need to discover that purpose and let it embrace us. By doing that, we cultivate the abilities to face any challenges that come flying in our direction.
For me, travel is my passion. Travel is my purpose. Not to mention, I channel this passion by using my own experiences to help people feel brave enough to take the trips of their dreams.
Recently, I’m listening to a lot of motivational podcasts on my commutes to work. For example, I love “The School of Greatness” and think these interviews provide great insight on practical ways to improve yourself. Seriously, if you’re struggling, then give this podcast a try.
Anyway, one of the reoccurring themes on “The School of Greatness” is to find a passion and purpose in life. No one can take passion away from you. It’s freeing.
And travel? Is a beautiful passion. Most importantly, I like to learn about humanity, beyond my country’s borders, in order to better connect with others. It’s a blessing.
Travel Helps Me Believe in People.
Travel restores my faith in people. It’s true.
Okay, I hate to out myself on this blog, but I’m a total cynic sometimes. Full disclosure.
In general, I have a very hard time trusting people, mostly because I worry they’ll lie or take advantage of me. And sadly, some people have done just that (another story for another day, my friends). It’s super challenging not to be jaded.
Yet travel reminds me so many kind-hearted, inspiring, brave, and intelligent people exist in the world. For example, I’ll never forget how complete strangers invited me to lunch in Nazare and helped me find the way to Stockholm after my train was canceled.
I’ve also had strangers talk to me on planes to calm my anxiety over flying. I had one woman stay awake the entire flight on my trip to Madrid, for instance, and reassure me whenever we hit a bump in the sky.
Travel reminds you that most people are inherently good. They are. I promise.
Even at home, the travel community’s members never stop encouraging me to transform into a better version of myself. For example, attending Women’s Travel Fest in New York City connected me with so many incredible women who are living their best lives every single day.
Travel Heals My Insecurities.
On a similar note, I’m a person who loves to travel, because exploring the world builds incredible self-confidence and worth. I’m able to accept and embrace my flaws much more readily after traveling somewhere epic and having time to reflect.
In our society, there’s an unspoken pressure to embody perfection, and falling short of that standard isn’t acceptable.
Think about it. When was the last time you felt safe admitting that you were angry or jealous and received zero judgement or advice regarding your turbulent feelings?
We all have flaws and insecurities. We’ll never reach this ridiculous idea of perfection either.
Travel gives you a chance to push beyond these troublesome traits, which we all have, and even accept them for what they are.
Is traveling alone scary? Absolutely.
However, the fear is invaluable, because you need to get out of your comfort zone for personal growth to happen. For example, I was terrified to go paragliding in Slovenia, not only because I hate flying on general principle, but because I’ve never identified myself as a dare devil. I felt like an imposter. But when my feet touched the ground again, I realized how much courage I actually possess. Cool, huh?
As I’ve said, we all deal with insecurities. All of us. But these supposed flaws don’t have to define us. Another major reason why I love traveling is because I was able to move beyond these flaws.
Travel Makes Me Appreciate Natural Beauty.
I’m a city gal at heart. New York City is my “happy place,” because I love the endless entertainment options, great shopping, and diverse population. Bring me the city lights.
On the other hand, travel forces me to return to nature and foster a deeper appreciation for the earth. My breath was taken away in both the Scottish Highlands and Banff National Park. Crystal clear glacier lakes. Massive green mountains. Fresh air filling my lungs. Our planet is an absolute gem.
I’m even willing to get my hands dirty now!
And, even at home, I’m trying to make getting out into nature a priority. I will say New Jersey has plenty of beautiful beaches, and I fully intend to take advantage of them.
Travel Has Me Falling in Love with Myself.
Self-love is grossly underestimated. A lot of us are taught to place other peoples’ needs ahead of our own – which is especially true for women. Society pressures and molds us into the perfect daughters, sisters, friends, girlfriends, wives, mothers.
When do we have time to pour the same kindness back onto ourselves to ensure we’re mentally healthy and happy?
There aren’t enough hours in a day. It’s sad.
Travel reclaims your time, and lets you spoil yourself. It’s amazing.
For instance, I took myself out on dates in Seattle. I bought super expensive chocolate and sat in the park and took pictures of Mount Rainier, and it was the best thing ever. I also spent over $70 on myself at the Walrus and the Carpenter in Ballard, and didn’t care that my indulgence had reached ridiculous levels. I was worth it, damn it!
By traveling alone, you can give the love that you freely hand out to everyone to yourself. Be selfish. It’s a wonderful feeling.
Ultimately, I Love to Travel and Experience New Cultures.
My passion for new places and cultures isn’t something that appeared out of nowhere in my adult life. Far from it.
I’ve always wanted to travel ever since I was young. When I was in middle school (wow, I was twelve at one point?), I was convinced that I would move to England and design houses.
While I think the latter had to do with playing too much Sims , my desire to explore beyond the borders of the United States never weakened. Not once.
Travel has made me a stronger person, and I couldn’t imagine my life without endless plane tickets and backpacks. Breaking outside my comfort zone strengthens my self-esteem. It’s a precious gift, the best one I can give myself.
Finally I feel like I have a deeper appreciation for the world now. I’m not as closed off or shallow, and consider myself very receptive to different opinions and ways of life. Travel makes me a better person.
If You are a Person Who Loves to Travel …
We’re soul sisters (or brothers if you’re a dude! Haha).
Here’s some final parting wisdom for my fellow travelers. Know that I think you’re amazing for pursuing your passions!
Don’t Feel Guilty.
You’re probably on the receiving end of some judgment. Do any of these lovely nuggets sound familiar?
“Enjoy it now. When you’re married and have kids, you won’t be able to travel anymore.”
“Don’t you want to settle down?”
“Are you running from something?”
These statements are intended to make you feel guilty. End of story. Don’t ever apologize for traveling too much!
You’re allowed to travel as much (or as little) as you want without other people impacting your choices. So, whenever you hear varieties of the above comments, simply smile and nod and move on. Guilt has no place in your adventurous life. BYE.
Share Your Travel Passions with Others.
Even as a solo traveler, we want to talk to people who have the same passions as us. It’s only natural. So, being part of a community makes travel even more special.
Facebook has several groups and communities that will connect you with fellow travelers. I love giving travel advice to random strangers in these groups! It makes me feel important.
Not to mention, it’s an easy way to hook up with likeminded people when you’re in a new country or city.
Furthermore, if you run a travel blog, then you can join classes and workshops (such as BlogHouse) , and also attend blogging conferences to make new friends. My blogger friends are some of the greatest people I know, and they support my dreams and goals whenever I feel low. Their encouragement is irreplaceable. You can’t put a price tag on it.
Finally, if you live in or are close to a big city, then check out your local Travel Massive chapter. These events will connect you with travel industry members and influencers, which is great if you’re planning on starting a travel blog.
Not planning on running a travel business? Still go to Travel Massive and make friends! The atmosphere has always been very welcoming.
Share your passion and build a supportive circle.
Implement “Travel Lessons” at Home.
Most of us aren’t digital nomads. We have a permanent address with established careers. We don’t travel 24/7. But another reason why I love traveling is because I can take those memories home with me.
Regardless, it’s easy to fall into depression at home when you love to travel so, so, so much. Sometimes you even feel like an “outsider” in your own neighborhood, but don’t let isolation creep into your brain. It’s a mistake.
Instead treat your home as another travel destination. Local getaways are fantastic. Research a cool attraction, park, or restaurant in your own backyard and then go explore.
Curiosity and wonder doesn’t die simply because you’re at home now. You never know what special gems might lurk around the corner.
Get out there!
Are you a person who loves to travel (I think I know the answer to this one)? Why do you love traveling? What trips have created the fondest memories for you? Share all your thoughts in the comments. Thanks (as always) for your continued support.
Rachel Elizabeth
At 22, I took my first overseas trip to Bermuda. Took a break to follow the "American Dream." Had my self-esteem broken. Embarked on my first solo trip to Scotland at 26. The travel bug dug its way under my skin. I now book multiple trips a year.
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33 Meaningful Reasons Why People LOVE to Travel
A World in Reach contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may receive a commission at no cost to you! Read my full disclosure here .
“Do you like to travel?”
This is a question I’ve been asked so many times in my life.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been obsessed with seeing the world. In high school, I joined all of the clubs that had travel opportunities to out-of-state conferences.
In college, I studied abroad four times – and planned solo trips and trips with friends in between!
You could say that I LOVE to travel – it’s also one of the reasons I created this blog! Traveling is in my blood, and I have two major missions in life: 1. see as much of the world as possible, and 2. inspire others to do the same!
There’s even a word for people like me. I’m a hodophil e , which means “one who loves to travel.”
I could talk all day long about why I love traveling and the fulfillment that traveling has brought to my life. And there are tons of other travelers out there that feel the same as me!
To put together this ultimate list of reasons why people love to travel, I worked with some fellow travel addicts to tell stories of what travel means to us.
You’ll find stories of personal growth, checking off bucket list experiences, and learning new things – all thanks to travel.
So, if you’re thinking about traveling the world for yourself, or are just wondering about how traveling can change your life, keep reading for personal stories of why people love to travel!
Table of Contents
1. Travel helps you check things off your bucket list.
Written by Sydney from A World in Reach
Growing up in a small, rural town, I dreamed of one day flying across the ocean, visiting world-class cities, and seeing the landmarks I had only seen on TV in real life.
I had always found Stonehenge and its history to be so fascinating, and I thought that climbing the Great Wall of China would be one of the coolest things anyone could do.
Seeing the Eiffel Tower in Paris sparkle at night was something I often dreamed about, as was walking through the hectic streets of Tokyo.
At the time, all of these experiences seemed like a pipe dream. How would I ever be able to afford to visit such faraway places?
But now, thanks to the gift of travel, I’ve been able to check all of these things and more off of my bucket list. And thanks to learning how to travel on a budget, I’ve been doing it cheaply while still maximizing my experiences.
Today, my bucket list is never-ending – each time I check something off, something new gets added. I’m still dreaming of seeing the Pyramids of Giza, going on a South African safari, and eating my way through Mexico City.
I wake up each day thankful for the experiences I’ve been given, and I look forward each day to checking the next thing off my bucket list.
2. Traveling gets you out of your comfort zone.
One of the things I love most about traveling is that it gets me out of my comfort zone.
To me, travel is one of the most rewarding and enriching experiences in the world. Hopping off a plane and being in a completely new environment is a feeling unlike any other.
When I get stuck in my day-to-day routine, I crave the excitement (and sometimes, chaos) of a travel day.
Traveling forces you to do something difficult – you might have to navigate a city with a language barrier, get accustomed to cultural norms totally different from your own, or figure out how to get a spare key to your accommodation when you got locked out of your Airbnb late at night with a dying phone battery (if you’re wondering why that’s so specific, it’s because it was easily my most stressful travel experience to date!).
Thanks to travel allowing me to get out of my comfort zone, I’ve improved my critical thinking and decision-making skills. I’ve also become a more empathetic person, and striking up conversations with strangers doesn’t seem so intimidating since I do it regularly when traveling.
Travel is an incredible way to broaden your horizons and expand your worldview. It challenges you to step outside of your comfort zone, confront your fears and insecurities, and connect with others.
If you’re ever yearning for an escape from the routine, start planning a trip.
3. Travel lets you try new foods.
I travel for a lot of reasons – seeing iconic landmarks in person, learning something new at museums and historical sites, and meeting new people from different walks of life.
One of my favorite things about travel though is all of the different food!
I’ve always been a foodie, and traveling has opened me up to so many unique dishes and cuisines that I can’t get at home.
Some of my fondest travel memories include eating my way through Ueno Market (one of the best things to do in Tokyo ), trying cuy (guinea pig) in Ecuador, and taking a Hawaiian cooking class in Oahu.
When I’m planning a trip, I always keep a list of foods to try and the best restaurants to visit. I also love taking local cooking classes so that I can learn how to make the dishes at home!
One of the #1 pieces of travel advice I always give others is to always try a new food , even if it’s something out of your comfort zone. You never know, you might end up with a new favorite!
4. Travel lets you escape everyday life and discover yourself.
Written by Kristin from Tiny Footsteps Travel
Traveling helps you discover not only new places but yourself.
Having grown up in a small town that I never left where I faced bullying at school, it was hard to imagine life outside of my reality.
At 12 years old, I got on a plane for the first time, to visit family in Sweden. This was my first taste of international travel, and it taught me more than just that there are beautiful, breathtaking landscapes abroad.
In meeting my extended family members, I learned that life could look different from how I grew up. Travel became my passion that fired my spirit, and became the dream at the end of the tunnel whenever I faced hard days.
I pursued traveling in my teens and early 20s. I traveled back to Sweden and also lived abroad in France, Germany, Mexico, South Korea, and Australia.
Overseas in far-off countries, it didn’t matter whether I was popular in school or not. I got to meet people as a whole new person and discover what I liked and who I really was.
I empowered myself by doing adventurous things, like skydiving on the beach in Australia.
Now as an adult, I love to give the gift of travel to my own two children. Our most recent family trip was to Costa Rica , which is the perfect destination with kids, a partner, or on your own.
5. When you travel, you get to learn about other cultures.
Written by Cristina from My Little World of Travelling
One of the main reasons why I love traveling is learning about other cultures. Although you can read books, watch documentaries or hear other travelers’ stories, nothing is better than experiencing the culture yourself.
Each destination I’ve visited has taught me something about a culture, but Mexico stands out for me. Despite Spanish being my first language, Mexican Spanish and culture are very different from Spain’s.
Visiting places like Chichen Itza and eating at local restaurants inspired me to cook more Mexican foods at home, learn more about its gastronomy, and made me curious about their traditions.
I also love that you can take new habits and traditions from other countries. Having traveled and lived in the UK , I adopted new habits like drinking tea and using words and expressions from regions like Yorkshire.
6. Traveling allows you to meet new, interesting people.
Written by Tammi from Wander Healthy
Traveling is a fantastic way to meet new and interesting people, especially for first-time travelers.
It puts you outside of your usual routine, providing opportunities to interact with people who share unique insights and experiences about the places you’re visiting. This is an easy and awesome way to learn about different cultures and customs.
Whether it’s chance encounters or shared experiences, you’re likely to interact with others every time you turn around.
It could be striking up a conversation on a train, meeting someone in a coffee shop, or attending a local event, but the possibilities for meeting new people are endless.
Staying in hostels or going on tours, my personal favorites, have a way of leading to conversations and lifelong connections with friends you wouldn’t have met otherwise.
Whether you’re backpacking through Europe, exploring Southeast Asia, or taking a road trip across the United States, you’re likely to meet people with interests and hobbies similar to yours, and your community builds naturally.
Traveling is the only thing that does this so effortlessly, letting you meet new and interesting people from all walks of life and create memories for a lifetime.
7. Traveling lets you see unique landscapes unlike any you’ve seen before.
Written by Sierra from Your Guide to Wandering
Traveling has allowed me to see landscapes found nowhere else in the world.
There are many places on earth that, without protection, would have disappeared with time. I’m grateful for our protected lands and historic monuments to allow me to experience nature and history from a first-hand perspective.
The ability to see fossils along my hikes in Moab, Utah, bike along 75-foot sand dunes in Cape Cod , or stroll the grounds of 12th-century castles in Portugal is invaluable.
Travel allows every day to be a different story and a different adventure. I don’t have to read about history or natural wonders just in books – I can experience them in real life.
Traveling to unique landscapes sparks our curiosity and childlike wonder. How were humans able to build the Roman Empire in ancient days with the most primitive of tools? How were the caves in Carlsbad, New Mexico formed over millions of years by just wind and water?
Travel constantly inspires me and keeps me exploring the bounds of history, science, and nature. What a privilege we get to travel and see such unique historical and natural places on Earth.
8. Travel helps you see things from a new perspective.
Written by Jo from World Wild Schooling
One of the things that I love most about traveling is the ability to see things from a new perspective.
Whether it’s a different culture, a new environment, or simply a change of scenery, traveling has a way of opening up your eyes to the world around you.
When we’re stuck in our daily routines and familiar surroundings, it’s easy to become complacent and forget about the wider world.
Traveling helps to break us out of this bubble and expose us to new ways of thinking and living. It allows us to see how people in other parts of the world approach life, work, and relationships.
For example, I was surprised to find out that in Phuket, Thailand, buses have no glass in the windows due to the consistently warm climate. This may seem like a small detail, but it highlights the unique ways that different cultures adapt to their surroundings.
Similarly, my jaw dropped when I first visited Brussels, Belgium , and saw that all signs are bilingual, even the subtitles in cinemas (yes, this means 4 lines of text!). This reflects the country’s complex linguistic history and the ongoing efforts to maintain both French and Dutch as official languages.
9. Travel can make you feel alive.
Written by Michele from Adventures Abound
Traveling makes simple experiences feel momentous, it sparks creativity, and it makes me come alive!
My first time going to another country was when I studied abroad in Costa Rica , and I realized that even the smallest experiences like taking a bus to a cool landmark or walking to a neighborhood festival were suddenly interesting in a new country.
I loved meeting new people, learning about the culture and the language, and traveling around to see beautiful nature in Costa Rica. Even just taking a bus to go visit a coffee farm felt like the most fun adventure.
Once I went on that trip, I was bitten by the travel bug as they say.
I started seeking out ways to feel like I was exploring and that often meant getting out around where I lived.
It’s so fun to explore little towns, peruse around farmer’s markets and shop with local vendors with the lens that I am traveling like I would if I were further from home.
10. Traveling allows you to see art in the world’s best museums.
Written by Lisa from Waves and Cobblestones
One of the reasons that I love to travel is that it gives me the opportunity to visit world-class art museums and spend time looking at fabulous pieces of art up close.
It’s quite a special way to experience art when you can look at a statue from different angles to note and admire all of the fine details.
If you can, always walk around a sculpture to view it from all sides. You just can’t appreciate it in the same way from a photo.
In some museums, the way that the art is displayed improves the viewing experience. In the Musée de l’Orangerie (one of my favorite Paris attractions ), Monet’s Water Lilies paintings are displayed in a unique oval room for an immersive panoramic viewing experience.
Visiting museums is one of my favorite things to do when I travel. And it’s also a great option for a rainy day!
11. Traveling strengthens friendship bonds.
Written by Kristin from Global Travel Escapades
One of the biggest reasons why I love to travel is because it allows me to strengthen the bonds I share with friends.
My friends and I traveled together right after graduating from university.
Although we somewhat knew each other before going on the trip, we didn’t really know each other!
But on this trip, we spent over a week laughing our butts off, dealing with stressful situations, and generally going on all kinds of crazy adventures around French Polynesia together.
There was no shortage of mistakes during this intense period, but we all came out on the other side for the better!
Fast forward almost two years later, and we all still speak so fondly of that time together. In addition, we went from mere acquaintances to the best of friends.
So, for me, I love traveling because it helps strengthen the friendships and relationships I have with others!
12. Travel helps you learn about history and its impact on places you visit.
Written by Diana from Travels in Poland
Traveling has always been my passion, but when you visit a place where you really feel something you can’t explain, it can transform your perspective on travel.
This happened to me when I visited Auschwitz-Birkenau .
My family is Polish and my grandmother, who was there with me, couldn’t get herself to enter the camp fully for several hours. She lived through the occupation and knew people shipped off to the camp. I realized how deeply this impacted me when I visited.
I’ve long been captivated by the way events shape societies, leaving indelible marks on the fabric of their being.
Stepping onto the hallowed grounds of Auschwitz, I felt the weight of the past heavy on my shoulders.
My grandmother’s eyes, glistening with unshed tears, told a thousand stories. This was where she lost family and friends, their lives snuffed out by the unimaginable cruelty of the Holocaust.
It was in walking onto these grounds that I grasped the true power of travel: the ability to connect with the past, witness history firsthand, and gain insight into the myriad of ways it continues to shape our world.
Through this poignant journey, I found a renewed appreciation for the transformative potential of travel, and a deeper understanding of the impact places have on people. Learning not only about history, but about the way it has shaped our world, and how we can learn from it.
13. Traveling helps you find a home base.
Written by Mal from Where To Stay Bali
Traveling was always my passion, but since I quit my career in finance and my conventional life in my home country, traveling has a whole new meaning for me.
Slow travel has become my way of life and a search for somewhere I can one day settle.
Since the beginning of my digital nomad life, I’ve lived part-time in Greece, Albania, Mexico, and the Netherlands.
I loved each of these places for different reasons – for their weather, culture, food, and people.
But, there has been one place that felt different to me, more special, a place that I want to keep coming back to. I found a place in Bali , which is now my second home.
If you keep an open mind during your travels, you may also find a place like that – a second home that can change your life!
14. Travel gives you the chance to study and learn in a new culture.
Written by Amber from Amber Everywhere
I love to travel because it allows me to experience new cultures and ways of living.
In particular, I had wonderful experiences studying abroad when I was in college because it gave me a chance to learn and live in a new place.
I stayed with a host family during my first two trips abroad, once in Guatemala and again in Jordan.
Living with a local family gave me a chance to experience the culture, try different foods, and see entirely different parts of those cities that I would’ve otherwise found.
Studying abroad also gave me a chance to travel slowly, and I stayed in each place long enough to have a favorite restaurant or route to take to school.
There were smaller cultural nuances that I learned, either because they were explained to me by locals or because I just picked them up as I went.
15. Travel teaches self-confidence and self-acceptance.
Written by Chelsea from A Wandering Redhead
I want to personally thank travel for the self-love and self-acceptance that it has taught me.
Pre-travel, I was shy, people-pleasing, and disbelieving if someone called me pretty.
Post-travel, I am confident, I love my body and what it can do for me, and I’m overall more radiant and bubbly.
Without travel, I may have never started my self-love journey and I certainly wouldn’t be where I am today.
I love the progress that I have made and believe that everyone should solo travel at some point in their life.
16. Traveling fulfills childhood dreams.
Written by Colleen from Then We Walked
As a girl, I would watch Whicker’s World on our black-and-white TV.
Every week, Alan Whicker would appear on screen like a traveling James Bond, complete with his very correct English accent, and transport me to a new exotic corner of the globe.
I was enthralled. It lit a flame. I wanted to explore, too. I dreamed of Table Mountain, Fisherman’s Wharf, the Sphinx, the Parthenon, Hal Long Bay, and the Cook Islands.
But ordinary people didn’t travel in the 1960s, and I was a child. I started work, married, bought a house, and had a family. Inside, I still dreamed.
We traveled a little, ticking off some of my bucket list, but last year, our children had flown the nest and we retired. Now, we’re traveling and exploring in earnest!
I’ve waited half a lifetime to go exploring and I’m beyond excited about our plans.
My advice to the girl who watched the TV: don’t wait.
17. Traveling allows you to connect with nature.
Written by Taryn from Happiest Outdoors
One of my favorite things about traveling is connecting with nature.
I love the simplicity of hiking and wilderness camping because it removes all the chaos and distractions of everyday life. It’s just me and the mountains.
It’s also a great way to understand the local ecology. I find it fascinating to learn about the way glaciers and volcanoes work or what unique animal species live in the area.
Instead of just looking at a spectacular view, I can understand the way the landscape came to be, and that deepens my relationship with the place.
Spending time traveling in nature has also been pivotal in my life.
Back in 2019, I had some time to think while hiking the 65-kilometer Overland Track in Tasmania, Australia . The trek made me realize that it was the right time to leave my 9-5 job and write full-time.
Since then I’ve expanded my outdoor adventure website, written a hiking guidebook, and moved to a small mountain town so I can hike every day.
18. Travel increases feelings of gratitude.
Written by Kristin from World on Wheels Blog
One of the reasons I love to travel is that it makes me more grateful.
When you are constantly in the same country or even environment, it’s easy to take things for granted.
As a traveler who uses a wheelchair and lives in the United States, it’s easy to forget that not all countries have ADA laws that guarantee access.
When I travel to places like South America, I am reminded how little things like curb cuts make a huge difference in how hard or easy it is to navigate a town. I can’t help but feel sad for the people with disabilities that actually live there.
Aside from reminders about how lucky I am to live in a country that encourages accessibility for all, I also feel a sense of gratitude that I’m able to explore the world and witness some of the immense beauty it has to offer.
There’s something incredibly special about seeing the power of Iguazu Falls and realizing how small you are in this massive world of ours. It’s a feeling and experience that photography just cannot seem to capture.
Travel is important for so many reasons, but helping to feel more gratitude is one of the things that I love the most.
19. Travel humbles you.
Written by Milijana from World Travel Connector
Gustave Flaubert, a literary genius and a wise man, once noted: “Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.”
And indeed, it is one of many lessons that traveling teaches you. Traveling puts you into a broader perspective of time, place, and the universe.
Visiting fascinating archeological sites like Petra in Jordan, Angor Wat in Cambodia, Giza in Egypt, and Pompeii in Italy made me see what a tiny place I occupy in today’s world and question the knowledge of contemporary times. It made me think.
Meeting other cultures while traveling showed me how oblivious I could be to other customs and traditions and how much there is always left to learn.
Traveling made me aware of the prejudices that I thought never existed. Travel shamed me. However, it also taught me the importance of being always open to learning while keeping the ego in check.
I found it especially rewarding to hike Camino de Santiago in Spain. Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims walked the trail before me. The Camino reminded me of the importance of modesty, effort, perseverance, and purpose. And, most importantly, what a tiny place I occupy in the world.
So, if you like meaningful travels, prepare your Camino de Santiago packing list and walk the Camino. Let the Camino teach you valuable life lessons!
20. Traveling helps you de-stress and recharge.
Written by Paulina from UK Everyday
Traveling is an excellent way to de-stress and recharge.
Discovering new places can allow you to reconnect with yourself. It can also help reduce stress levels by providing a change of scenery and an escape from the mundane routines of everyday life.
Traveling can also provide people with a sense of freedom from their work-related responsibilities, allowing them to relax surrounded by natural landscapes.
Exploring some of the best beaches in Wales can be a great way to disconnect from the stresses of everyday life.
Additionally, traveling can help boost creativity, as it encourages new ideas and perspectives. This can help spark creativity by introducing fresh ideas that you might not have otherwise thought of when stressed.
For these reasons, traveling is great to help de-stress and recharge.
Furthermore, travel also provides a break from your daily routine, allowing you to step away from your comfort zone and explore the unknown without worrying about your daily problems.
21. Travel lets you connect with other cultures through the arts.
Written by Dawn from Culture Feasting
If you consider yourself an artistic person, know that traveling can be a total game-changer.
As a creative person myself, I’ve found that exploring new destinations has the power to expand my spirit and give me all sorts of new artistic opportunities.
Over the years I have come to crave the stimulation of experiencing different cultures and their unique art forms.
From visiting local museums to catching a traditional dance performance, there are so many ways to connect with the arts while on vacation.
It’s not just about admiring pretty paintings or sculptures, either. It’s about immersing yourself in a foreign environment and gaining a whole new perspective on the world.
I’ve found that this can really inspire me to incorporate new artistic elements into my own creative projects.
So next time you’re planning a trip, consider how it could enhance your love for the arts and help you connect with other cultures on a deeper level.
22. Travel gives you a change of scenery.
Written by Tina from Veganderlust
I grew up in a small village in Austria, a country with beautiful lakes and mountains, but also a landlocked country.
The best part about traveling is the change of scenery. My favorite places to go to are cities next to the ocean, which is a completely different scenery from landlocked Austria.
There’s nothing better on your holiday than exploring a city and then relaxing at the beach.
That’s why I really loved my last trip to Barcelona . There’s so much culture and history to discover in this city, and afterward, you can go swimming in the sea.
By visiting different places with a change of scenery, you also develop a new appreciation for your own home scenery – one of the many positive side effects of traveling.
As much as I love traveling to coastal destinations, I always love seeing the mountains when I come back home.
23. Travel can strengthen your romantic relationships.
Written by Amy & Liam from Plain2Plane
There are so many wonderful reasons to travel.
If you’re in a relationship then there is nothing better than sharing experiences with your significant other.
Imagine waking up in Egypt with your partner, ready to go out for the day. You are going parasailing together, enjoying cocktails, quad biking – the list really is endless. You get to enjoy all of this with someone that you love and care about.
Traveling can be challenging at times and you have to make many different, sometimes difficult, decisions.
You have the luxury to share these moments together and form a closer relationship unlike any other. This will help you create a deeper bond with your partner.
You will also be able to step out of your comfort zone and try new things together. This will ultimately bring you closer together too!
24. Travel is inspiring.
Written by Chelsea from Adventures of Chels
One of the reasons I enjoy traveling is because of the many ways it inspires me.
Traveling inspires me to better myself physically, mentally, and emotionally.
I’m inspired physically when I’ve committed to a trip that involves physical effort. One example would be hiking the Inca Trail in Peru.
When I learned that the trail involved miles of steady incline at high altitudes I felt motivated to prepare for that physically. This resulted in healthier eating habits and weeks of exercising leading up to my trip.
I’m inspired mentally by the way traveling increases my desire to do even more of it. This usually prompts me to tighten my budget to save for my next trip.
It also helps put into perspective the things I need vs. want and how that plays into not only my budget but also my overall happiness.
Emotionally, traveling inspires me to be a better person. When I see the way people in other parts of the world live, many times with very little, I feel humbled.
I feel inclined to be more grateful for the things I have and the experiences I’m afforded. It contributes to my overall well-being when I’m reminded of how little I need to truly be happy.
There are many reasons why I love traveling; but, the way it inspires me is definitely high on the list.
25. Travel turns kids into global citizens.
Written by Brodi from Our Offbeat Life
As full-time digital nomads, my family has seen so many places and experienced so much that I never thought possible when I was younger.
My son is learning about different cultures, languages, and ways of life that he would have never been exposed to if we had stayed in one place.
Traveling as a family has allowed him to gain a greater appreciation for the world around him.
He’s able to see how people live differently in different parts of the world and understand why those differences exist.
He is also learning valuable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving as he navigates through unfamiliar places and situations.
Most importantly, traveling has given him the opportunity to explore his own identity as a global citizen.
He is developing an understanding of what it means to be part of something bigger than himself – a global community – and how he can contribute positively to it.
26. Traveling helps you find new opportunities in life.
Written by Min from Amsterdam Travel Blog
Traveling is not just visiting new places, experiencing new cultures, and trying local food. It can mean much more than that; it allowed me to find new opportunities and has changed my life forever.
When traveling to Europe for the first time at 18 years old, I noticed how big the world was, and life was so different on the other side of the world.
Because of that, I became more motivated to embrace the world. I decided to travel and meet more people.
While traveling in Amsterdam , luckily, I met some friendly people, including international students from Paraguay and South Africa. They studied in the Netherlands with a full scholarship.
They told me that the Netherlands was their first choice since they could have more connections with people around the world quickly while studying, and easier to find a job here after graduation as a non-European.
I came from Taiwan and grew up there all my life. After working for a few years, I quit my job and studied in the Netherlands. Now, I finally moved to The Netherlands permanently on my own, and if I didn’t travel, I would not know that it was possible to move here.
I encourage you to travel more and be open to meeting new people. The world is so big – people you meet can help you see the world from a different perspective and get valuable information about your life.
27. Travel can help you create change in your own community.
Written by Annie from Your Friend the Nomad
Travel is not just about the place you visit, but the transformation you experience and how you transform your community in response.
I learned this when I spent a few months volunteering with a reconciliation organization in the Middle East.
Despite decades of violence between their communities, I saw ordinary people working together to build bridges across social divides.
As an outsider looking in, I only saw the tip of the iceberg of the challenges locals were facing—yet I could see that peacemaking was not an easy or quick task.
After a few months, I returned to the US completely changed. The framework for reconciliation that I learned abroad guided how I navigated the aftermath of George Floyd’s death, conversations about immigration, and even interpersonal conflicts.
Personal transformation is available to you as you travel whether you’re traversing war zones or relaxing on tranquil tropical beaches . You just have to lean in and allow your biases to be broken.
28. Travel lets you see the vast landscapes of the world.
Written by Jessica from Uprooted Travel
As an outdoor adventure lover, one of the primary reasons I love to travel is to experience the vast array of landscapes the world has to offer.
This can take shape in so many different ways, from exploring the lush rainforests and rugged beaches of my own backyard in the Pacific Northwest to checking out any of the best hikes in Arches National Park in Utah, with unique sandstone fins and dramatic natural arches.
Of course, this takes me beyond my home country of the United States—there’s endless natural beauty to explore, like the turquoise waterfalls of Costa Rica , the luscious highlands of Iceland, or the sweeping grasslands of the Serengeti.
Along the way, of course, I get to enjoy all of the other aspects of travel, like trying new cuisines, befriending locals, and seeing the world through a new perspective.
But for me, getting to step foot in a uniquely stunning landscape propels me to keep traveling and seeing this big, beautiful world.
29. Travel helps you make the world a better place.
Written by Chloe from Passport Down Under
Traveling has allowed me to positively impact the world by leaving the country in a better position than when I entered it, which is what I love most about traveling.
Traveling has allowed me to give back by supporting local businesses and economies.
By choosing to buy locally-made products and using local services, I have helped to create jobs and support the growth of small businesses. This can contribute to the development of sustainable tourism and the preservation of cultural heritage.
Furthermore, traveling has allowed me to give back through volunteering and community service.
I have participated in activities such as clean-up projects on the beaches of Byron Bay, wildlife conservation projects in Cambodia, and teaching English to local children in Thailand.
These experiences not only allowed me to contribute to the community but also to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and needs of the local people, especially in counties such as Cambodia.
Overall, traveling has allowed me to leave the world a better place by positively impacting the communities I visit.
30. Travel is great for learning a new language.
Written by Diana from Avagu Press
Learning a language is a huge reason to travel. While textbooks and classrooms might work for math and literature, learning a foreign language requires a bit of independent study and a lot of practice time.
The best way to get that practice time?
Immersion — spending hours, days, weeks, and even longer completely immersed in a foreign language, using it to live.
Unless you happen to live somewhere where multiple languages are spoken, travel is key to immersing yourself in a foreign language.
For the most effective language-learning, language-learning resources that specifically target your travel plans (like a Swahili-learning guide specifically for safari ) will help you make the most out of your experience.
Focus on communication, and don’t worry too much about mistakes.
The beautiful thing about being a novice in a foreign language is that nobody expects too much, so the pressure is off! Enjoy your trip, and enjoy your language learning.
31. Travel brings adventure.
Written by Melissa from My Beautiful Passport
One of the reasons I love to travel is for adventure and trying adventurous activities.
When traveling to new destinations, not only do you get to immerse yourself in different cultures and try new foods, but you have the chance to participate in exhilarating adventure sports that will leave you breathless.
From snorkeling with turtles to parasailing over beautiful coastlines, and volcano boarding down an active volcano, the rush of excitement is unmatched.
For adventure-seekers like myself, traveling to participate in activities like these create memories that last a lifetime.
I have chosen many of my vacation locations specifically for the fun adventure sports I can try there, and often, it is the first time I’m trying each activity.
The thrill of adventure travel is hard to beat, and the rush of excitement that comes with it is truly unforgettable.
32. Travel inspires me to write about and share my experiences.
Written by Wayne from Always On The Shore
The biggest reason that I love to travel is because it inspires me to write about places I’ve visited and my experiences, so I can motivate others to travel and do the same.
I have always liked traveling but I never had the money to travel until my mid-30s. Once I started traveling more consistently, I fell in love with the idea of warm-weather locations, such as Florida.
Since I’m from Minnesota and half the year is snowy, cold weather, beach vacations became something that I became obsessed with. Later, that became writing about all things Florida and even the Caribbean.
I know that other people can relate and have similar reasons for wanting to get away, but maybe there’s something stopping them. Like maybe they’re too nervous to fly, which I also experienced, until I did research on flying, and learned ways to cope with flight anxiety.
The main takeaway is that if you’re passionate about seeing amazing places and the world like I am, don’t let anything stop you. If I can inspire others to do the same by sharing my experiences, then I’m happy.
33. Traveling gives me a creative outlet.
As I was growing up, I always assumed that I wasn’t creative. I couldn’t draw, didn’t play an instrument, and I certainly couldn’t sing or dance.
I always did great in English class, but I never enjoyed the creative writing assignments. Coming up with fictional stories just wasn’t my strong suit.
When I finished my undergraduate degree, I had studied abroad four times in four different countries. I had also gone on several independently-planned trips, both international and domestic. At that same time, I also discovered a new creative outlet: travel blogging.
In school, I was always great at writing research papers and writing travel guides was a fun way to use my strengths. Plus, I had always enjoyed giving travel advice to friends and family, so why not share my stories and tips with the world?
Since starting A World in Reach in 2018, I’ve learned and grown so much. I’m so glad that I have a creative outlet where I can share about one of the most important aspects of my life – travel – and help others explore the world on a budget.
Reasons Why People Love to Travel: Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are SO MANY reasons why people love to travel.
For some, traveling sparks creativity, brings personal growth, and helps them escape the routine. For others, traveling brings bucket-list-worthy experiences, delicious food, and adventure.
The question “Why do you love to travel?” has no right or wrong answer. Traveling is a deeply personal experience that can bring happiness to different people in many different ways.
So, if you’re thinking about traveling in the future, I hope this post and the stories told within have shown you all of the positivity that travel can bring to your life.
If you were asked, “Why do you love to travel?”, what would your answer be?
After traveling outside of the US for the first time while studying abroad, I quickly developed a love for travel and an obsession for exploring as much of the world as possible. Now, I'm on a mission to teach college students, young adults, and anyone else who wants to see the world how to travel while minimizing their expenses and maximizing their experiences.
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