Travel Hindsight

2007
04.12

Sitting here in Australia, having completed by most recent trip, I can’t help but wish I was still out there living the backpacker life. A month is too short a time to experience two countries. Yet, it is over and I must let it go, plus I’ll have plenty of time to reminisce when I edit the 7 or so hours of video footage that I accumulated. Arriving home has also given me a chance to reflect on travel and some of the lessons I have either learned fresh, or come to understand better. They are as follows, in no particular order:

  • It’s not possible to truly relate your experiences to others, for that can only come with actual travel.
  • It’s not where you go, but how you explore and experience the place you’re in. Some people visit many places, but never truly experience anything.
  • There is always a cheaper option, but are you willing to find, argue, beg or persevere for it?
  • Leave with only the essentials. Come back with bags full.
  • Planning saves a lot of headache.
  • Let the world color you and let your presence color the world.
  • “Nothing ventured, nothing gained”.
  • True travelers seek the unfamiliar, not destinations.
  • Travel allows you to see a different side of yourself, for better or for worse.
  • Find a local and talk to them wherever you go.
  • If you open your heart and mind, it will fill with something new.
  • Travel is addictive.

That last one is especially true. So true, I almost never made it home.

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