Why do you travel?

June, 2018

Are you ever asked the question, why do you travel? To Travel is to Live – Hans Christian Andersen

Have you noticed, when you let anyone in on your secret that you’re taking off again for a while, a barrage of endless questions follows?

How long are you going for this time? When are you back? Won’t you miss home? How can you stay away for so long? And so, it goes on…

I haven’t quite understood if this Spanish inquisition is a guilt trip for leaving behind loved ones. Or, whether it’s just intriguing around ‘why on earth, you would want to leave home?’

And yes, earth is the reason…

It is not down in any map; true places never are.

Herman Melville
Lahu Village, Luang Namtha, Laos, trekking
Children of the Lahu Village, Laos

The seed

Sometimes growing up in a small semi-rural town can feel as if you’re lost to a world that’s far larger and greater than your own.

But continual exposure to the BBC, ABC, 4Corners, et al. and sitting through several editions of the News’ every evening, must expand your mind and influence you in some way, right?

The exposure must show you that there’s much more out there to explore, than the town in which you grew up in and feel secure. This made me think how insignificant we are to what’s really out there…

This global exposure opened a larger world than the one in which I knew and lived in. Not happy just to watch this world on TV or read about life experiences in books, I had to see it for myself.

I made my mind up at an early age.

Maybe another influence while growing up was being absorbed in the lyrics of Pink Floyd’s brilliant The Dark Side of the Moon. Especially with the song Time, which planted another level of anxiousness that turned into wanderlust. This nagging feeling could not be shifted – even today.

Leave Time running in the background while you read my blog.

And then one day you find, ten years have got behind you, no one told you when to run, you missed the starting gun.

Pink Floyd

David Gilmour and Richard Wright’s most pertinent lines above from Time still resonate…

In the old days

Back then, there was no FOMO (fear of missing out) label that graces our lives today.

Actually, back then, social media didn’t exist. Surprisingly, we still survived. I’m starting to sound like a dinosaur…but don’t write me off just yet!

Artist’s rest – Cornwall, England (Fujichrome 35mm slide film)

I didn’t feel as though I was missing out, but just hungry to see everything I could, during my lifetime. As let’s face it, none of us knows our path in life, or how long we have.

A lingering urge to experience life to the full? Maybe. Coupled with a silently creeping desire to explore.

The number of times I listened to the elderly (and not-so-elderly) lamenting on what they wished they would have seen during their life: but now it is too late.

To sit and do nothing is just like stagnating, rotting, wasting valuable time – almost as though you’re waiting for death to arrive.

A tad melodramatic? Perhaps.

But it sure is an impetus to get off the couch, leave your safe surrounds, plunge into travel, the unfamiliar, and then some.

If you think adventures are dangerous, try routine: It’s Lethal.

Paul Coelho

Work to travel

With a magnetic pull to see the world, I decided that I would work hard to travel hard, so I saved hard. A couple of years’ later and finally, I saved enough money to leave Australia and travel for 12 months. It takes a while when you live away from home and need to pay all of your own bills.

Jobs fill your pocket, but adventures fill your soul.

Jamie Lyn Beatty

Not sure why I gave myself 12 months, but this sounded like a good start, unless the money ran out sooner, or I just didn’t like travelling – it happens.

A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving.

Lao Tzu

With my 12-month around-the-world ticket booked, I now had to break the news to my parents.

Family woes

Returning to my sleepy hometown to let my parents know of my good news and that Africa is the first country, is greeted with disbelief. A barrage of concerning questions follow.

Their 22-year old daughter would be solo-travelling the world. Not assisted. Without friends or relatives to help. Dangerous times in Africa at the height of AIDS, especially for a lone white female.

No internet. No social media. No mobile phones. Only landline phones with prohibitively expensive reverse charges, when desperate. Only snail mail. Think about that for a bit…

Not as easy as solo-travelling these days, where every scrap of information is at your fingertips within seconds.

Vendor, Johannesburg to Cape Town train, Africa
Trinket vendor – stopping momentarily along train journey from Johannesburg to Cape Town (Fujichrome 35mm slide film)

I could understand the concern. Of course, my parents tried to talk me out of going.

Adamant I had to travel. So, argued that I didn’t want to be on my death bed regretting never seeing a country, sharing an experience, or to just feel alive. They still thought I was mad!

Was this to be my path in life for a while? Forever? Who knows, but I was pretty excited.

Another person I had to say goodbye to was my partner of 18 months. Not once did he stop me from going – he understood that I had to do this – as selfish as this sounds, saying goodbye, was hard.

Live life with no excuses, travel with no regret.

Oscar Wilde

The 12-month drug

I had no idea that I would thrive on travelling as much as I did and that it would become my drug of choice, for life.

You just never know.

Not knowing whether I would last one week, one month, let alone 12 months, I could have stayed out much longer, but that story is best saved for another chapter…

Apart from a return flight (in case I ran out of money), a one-month Eurail, a one-month BritRail, and a 21-day TopDeck tour to see the main sights through Europe, I had no other plans for the year.

Live your life by a compass not a clock.

Stephen Covey

I went where I wanted, when I wanted, and the 12 months was nothing short of incredible!

Abu Simbel, Nubia, Egypt, Africa
Abu Simbel, Nubia, Egypt (Fujichrome 35mm slide film)

Of course, there were times when I wondered, what the hell I was doing on my own. Typically, while hitching in north Scotland’s isolation, or getting lost with a storm brewing, on the sparse hills of the desolate Orkney Islands. And then, there was hitching around South Africa for a few weeks – just two Australian females and a few dubious rides.

Mevagissey, Cornwall, England
Eric and Dylan, Mevagissey, Cornwall – we wrote for many years until one day, I received a letter from his sister that he’d passed away.

The things we do when we travel are things and situations that we would never dream of doing at home. Risks we would never take.

With the seed firmly planted, the drug now was an addiction.

TopDeck, Europe
I succumbed – things you do when you live inside a double-decker bus.

Since then?

Well, I’m still travelling after 30-plus years, whether on short or extended trips. The lust never left.

The only time I stop travelling is to return to work to earn money, to take off again.

Let’s face it, with only 60+ countries over 6 continents visited, I still have many more countries to explore – and only a lifetime to do it all in.

Not all those who wander are lost.

J.R.R. Tolkien

You may be thinking travel is not for you and that I’m crazy giving up stability and a well-paying career for uncertainty, potential danger, and the unknown. And that’s perfectly fine. It’s your life, live it as you feel best.

There are no foreign lands. It is the traveler only who is foreign.

Robert Louis Stevenson

All I say is that if you’re not happy with your life, then why not try a little travel?

You can always return home. But you never know, it may become your way of life.

Dong Hoi Station – Vietnam (2015) Photo credit: Neil Lintern

So, why do I travel?

Just a few reasons in no particular order…

  1. Be free
  2. Experience life
  3. Be inspired
  4. Cathartic
  5. Teaches gut instinct
  6. Adrenaline rush
  7. Not to conform to what society dictates
  8. Absorb disparate cultures
  9. Connect with people, bond with strangers and become long-life friends
  10. Makes me stronger
  11. Push my own mental and physical boundaries
  12. Emotional gratification
  13. Awe-inspiring experiences
  14. To respect the world in which we all live and to not take anything for granted
  15. Hold a head full of exquisite memories with no regrets
  16. Exotic and amazing cuisines

Why do you travel?

Now, this is your turn to share with me why you travel? What made you take that first step? Do you travel short-term or long-term?

I’m eager to hear your thoughts and start a travel discussion…

Your mind is your only barrier.

Nilla Palmer

Visit Nilla’s Photography for global images – still many more countries to upload. Weekly updates of new travel and photography destinations at Image Earth Travel.

Go now my friend, it’s later than you think!

Unknown – cruising saying
Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, Africa
Bulawayo, Zimbabwe (Fujichrome 35mm slide film)

438 thoughts on “Why do you travel?”

Add yours

    1. Hi there, thanks for sharing your travel passions with me and agree, nature, mountains, deserts are wonderful! Though, so is meeting locals, history, and food. 😉

      If you like deserts, you may want to check out Into the Sahara, Morocco. I have several posts published on mountains, this is one you may be interested in Stunning Zakopane! Southern Poland’s Tatras Mountains. If you’re into volcano treks, then The ascent of Vulcán Villarrica, Chile may be of interest. 🙂

      Like

  2. This post of yours just spoke to me.. Seriously..!!
    Cannot agree more to each and every point you have mentioned in this post..
    Thank you for sharing..!! Feel ecstatic to have found your blog, and this particular post.. 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    2. I beg to differ, a little, if you permit.
      This post of yours and the one on Parenti seems to have poured out of your heart.. ☺️
      A perfect and captivating representation of not just the scenes and culture of Italy, but also the strong emotions they invoke.. 😊

      Liked by 1 person

  8. I have traveled throughout the U.S.A. and went to Canada once which wasn’t much different. I’ve lived in 8 or 9 different states from California to Pennsylvania ~ I eventually fell in love with women > traveling but if I could have both, I’d take both. To do that I’d have to find a traveling career as I have children and the constant need for funds is a must. I just had my last baby, I hope (lol), who is over a year old and I’m thinking I’m traveling around the world when he gets out of the house at 18 or so. All the cultures are exciting. All the food is amazing. All the different scenery and the such.. I can easily see why you fell in love with traveling. I also love that rush feeling of being in a new place and not knowing what to expect. Everything you see is something new and personal. How amazing it is!

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Wow, thanks for sharing all of your wonderful thoughts on why you travel and can see how you became addicted also…

      It’s difficult to travel with young children and I’ve seen many parents drag babe in arms to different parts of the world – think it’s a little selfish but each to their own as they say. There’s so much to see of our globe that we definitely can’t do it all in a lifetime.

      Hope you can start with short trips when your children are old enough to appreciate what they’re experiencing but yes, they are expensive.

      Like

  15. Absolutely loved it!
    I travel because it liberates me and I am able to experience this beautiful world by myself not through someone else’s experiences.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. I’m glad you enjoyed my post. Many thanks for taking the time to comment and share the reasons for which you travel.

      Yes, travel is very liberating and you can read about everything, but it’s never the same experience from one person to another, regardless of the country.

      Liked by 1 person

  17. I absolutely loved reading this blog! I work and travel because it is exciting! You get to learn so much about the world – through your own eyes!! .and learn about yourself! I come from a family that don’t travel at all (my parents don’t even have a passport) so I can totally relate to the part were they tried to talk you out of it. My best trip so far was to China. I trekked I’m the Great Wall and it was just indescribable (check out my blog). Where are you off to next?

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Hi Lyndsey, thank you for the great feedback and reasons why you travel! I guess my parents never travelled as both came out from Europe on ships in the early fifties although at different times, so maybe that voyage in those days was enough for them – I know it took my father 40 days on a ship from Europe to Australia – almost Biblical!

      Just read your China blog – sounds like a wonderful trek.

      I’m currently in Calabria (Italy) but leaving for Pisa tomorrow for 12 days and hope to take in Siena, Florence, and surrounding area, before returning to Calabria. 😉
      Your next travel plan?

      Like

  18. I love this post! I currently live in a nice suburban area with cookie cutter houses & great schools. We landed here by complete fluke because of our daughter’s medical issues. She is healthy now and we intend to sell our house to head out into the world in a year. Our friends and coworkers think we are crazy to give up this “perfect” life but we have never felt truly at home here. I can’t wait to get back to the hustle and bustle, to the madness that is travel. Thanks for this post! It’s a good reminder that there are more itchy footed people out there doing things that make others scratch their heads in disbelief.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Hi and welcome to my blog!

      Thank you for commenting and sharing insights of your family with me…

      Yes, there will always be people that try and stop you from doing what you love – maybe it’s genuine concern, or maybe it’s just the fact that they can’t/won’t venture out, so prefer to stop other people instead. It’s a strange one that I haven’t worked out yet…

      I’ve never been a ‘cookie cutter’ kind of girl. I guess also living on a boat for 21 years isn’t your ‘norm’, but I really don’t care and continue to enjoy life the way in which I want, and never listen to what other’s say. 😉

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Hi again, I’m humbled at your request – many thanks, but I’ve never mentored anyone.

      To be honest the best advice I have as a blogger is write from the heart.

      I only write about countries I’ve travelled to and my honest experiences, whether good or bad. I don’t make things up, don’t gloss anything over (as you’ll read in a future post when I was robbed in Peru), and tell it as it is really. For me this has worked, but it also depends on writing good content and what your blog is about. It’s a long process and this is my 4th year blogging – be patient.

      Hope this helps. 🙂

      Like

  27. Traveling is like being a child again, in your most innocent and wide-eyed years. I truly believe that monotony is poison to the human spirit. Traveling fills the heart because it truly doesn’t matter WHERE the traveling is taking place. It’s the newness and the exploration. It speaks to a deep, hidden part of ancient human experience where we were all wanderers. On a different angle, traveling teaches you about the diversity of the human experience whether you go 3 states over or 3 continents. The more you know, the easier it is for you to understand and accept differences in your life. The more you see, the easier it is for you to understand your own privilege. All of these things make you a better, more whole human being and citizen, friend/neighbor/community member and advocate (if need be). Whether we think so or not, we all grew up in bubbles. The world is just that big. You have to go.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

    1. Hi Sara, eloquently said and appreciate your valuable views and vision on the reasons for which you travel.

      Yes, we were all wanderers and social once but somehow over time, we’ve managed to lock ourselves behind brick walls and only peer out to feel the breeze on our faces when we feel is safe or necessary. But not all is lost, as some of us still wander the globe in awe to learn and seek more than the walls in which we exist.
      Everyone has to go…

      Liked by 1 person

  28. Wow! Incredible article. You just summarized my thoughts about traveling into an incredibly well written piece. I’m also of the belief that you need to see the world for yourself instead of having other people tell you all about. The world is big, grand, and worthy of exploring. Recently I got bitten by the same traveling bug, and this past summer I had the opportunity to travel to Cape Town, South Africa on a volunteer trip. When I tell you that I found myself in many ways, I mean that I was completely out of my confort zone when I climbed up Lionshead mountain, when I worked with those children at that elementary school, and when I found myself sharing a room with six complete strangers. Yet, I must say, I realized I was capable of functioning, learning immensely, and enjoying myself in the unknown. I came back home feeling strengthened, revitalized, and empowered. I travel because it makes me feel like I have bigger things to conquer, things that I can’t find in my routine and comfortable enviornment. I travel to make connections with wonderful people because we can learn from anyone that crosses our path. I loved you words. I kind of feel like booking my next trip! Now, after reading this, I feel compelled to make the best out of my twenties and many years to come and spend them traveling every corner of the world. I thank you for your work! Truly spectacular. Looking forward to reading more of your posts 😊🙏🏼☺️🌟

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Wow Maria, what wonderful feedback – thank you! 🙂

      This travel post resonates with many travellers. Perhaps it’s because we share similar drives and philosophies in life. Travel makes us more accepting of others and situations, whilst still being empathetic to our world, not to mention the immense sense of achievement.

      South Africa is an incredible country and would love to return one day. I love the reasons why you travel and glad that you’re ready to book your next trip!

      Liked by 1 person

    2. It truly was an amazing post and I commed you for your beautiful work! It’s a great treat for me to feel understood by someone who has never held back on traveling seeing as travel has a very special way of refurbishing our mind, our bodies, and spirits. Thank you for everything and thank you for swinging by my blog! I really appreciate it 😊🙏🏼🌟

      Liked by 1 person

  29. Such a beautiful write up. I loved how you expressed your love for travel. I also love travel. Have been fortunate to see some places in my country, still lots more to see. I have started blogging just a couple of days ago. So, new to this. I will look forward to read your posts.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Thank you for your feedback. I guess it also depends on where in the world you are when posting as to the best time/day but also your blog’s content and readers.

      I’ve started doing the same at the beginning of the month. This allows me to concentrate on finishing building my Nilla’s Photography replacement site for the rest of the month. I built my current site 7 years ago whilst travelling through South America using internet cafes and wifi in cafes, restaurants, and wherever…
      It’s now quite outdated so stay tuned for my next site’s launch…hope in the next couple of weeks – all feedback welcomed. 🙂

      Like

    1. Many thanks for your kind feedback Rachael and Oli, and glad you enjoyed this post.
      Please feel free to share this with someone that may need the impetus to start travelling and I sincerely hope that it has the desired effect… 😉

      Like

  36. Just read this post,my first one from you, but it certainly won’t be the last. I love how personal and self-revealing it is. Blogging about our lives can be cathartic and often enlightening to others. I am an avid traveler too, though I missed the starting gun 😉. I am in to make up for lost time, though. I look forward to reading more.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply

    1. Hi Sandra, great to meet you and hear your feedback – many thanks. How did you come across this post?

      Travelling can also be self-revealing and I don’t think you ever miss the starting gun, just that life has a habit of throwing hurdles in front of you when you try to accomplish different objectives. Great that you’re catching up for lost time.

      Liked by 1 person

  37. Ha! I love it! I complitely agree with the quote “Jobs fill your pocket, but adventures fill your soul” by Jamie Lyn Beatty. We don’t need packed pockets when we have beautiful souls, right? Ican’t wait to read more about your adventures, take care!

    Liked by 4 people

    Reply

  38. I absolutely love this post and it encapsulates how I feel about travel too! I also love the quotes that you have included, especially ‘Jobs fill your pocket, but adventures fill your soul’ – Jamie Lyn Beatty. I always seem to have itchy feet and am always thinking of the next trip. I travel mostly short term at the moment, which satiates my wanderlust somewhat, but my ultimate goal is to do some more long term travel at some point. Just need to earn the money to make it happen!

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply

    1. Thank you, it was kind of a brain dump in such a short time…perhaps this is the way I should write all my posts. 🙂
      Finding and selecting the quotes is what took a little time, although I’d heard many of them before.

      At least you’re able to do short stints whilst you save money. I never travel with loads of money and never stay in plush places either. Independent travel is more affordable, but I’m sure you already know all that…

      Liked by 1 person

    2. Sometimes posts just come out of nowhere don’t they! Yes, independent travel is my preferred method where possible, it’s much lighter on the wallet and I like the flexibility of it. I am always eternally grateful that I am able to travel, even for short periods.

      Liked by 2 people

    5. Cool Josie and I’m glad you can relate to my thoughts on travelling.
      Both solo and partnered travelling have it’s ups and downs. I don’t really have a preference and for me, it’s really dictated by circumstance and phase of life I guess.

      Liked by 1 person

    3. Sounds excellent and sure you will see many more wonderful countries.
      Apart from what I’ve written here…travel is in my DNA and is my blood, although think I must of been adopted as the rest of my family doesn’t travel as much or at all.

      Liked by 1 person

  43. Never has a reason to travel crossed my mind…. it is an urge, a need and when I feed it – the cravings get bigger…. my drug indeed.
    I have been confined to local travel for over two years . Can’t seem to break out of the cycle of not getting a head of costs incurred and refuse to live in debt but I will be back to wandering soon again. Great post thanks for sharing it.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

  47. What a great post Nilla. I totally agree with every word. Sometimes I wish I had taken off earlier at a younger age to see the world, but I am blessed to have traveled regardless later on in life with my husband and children. I too work, save and plan our next holiday. Nothing is more rewarding than educating your children (and yourself) and introducing them to this wonderful world we live in through travel 🙂

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply

    1. Thank you for your feedback and cool you travel for all those reasons…more people should travel instead of cluttering their lives with unwanted ‘stuff’. But then again, each to their own as the saying goes… 😉

      Liked by 2 people

  53. Great read Nilla! Travel, for me, has provided a unique lens with which to see my world. Travel was the catalyst to make me realize that working till 65 at a desk, retiring and dying – ain’t it. 37 countries and counting, I was lucky enough to find a soulmate who also is addicted to travel. We are planning a 49 state road trip over 18 months on our Airstream @ladylolamae . We are closing up life as we know it for this adventure (we are both 37 and in “prime earning years” – insert eye roll). Hopefully you’ll follow our journey, as we continue to follow yours.
    See you on the road!

    Liked by 4 people

    Reply

    2. Strange? The WordPress site or the Instagram link to the Airstream? Thanks for the heads up! It doesn’t look like either is marked private on my end. Have a great weekend!

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Hi, thank you for leaving me your thoughts on why you travel.
      Yes, it’s healthy to be curious and question everything. I can’t imagine what it’s like not to be curious about the other side of the world.

      Liked by 1 person

  61. This is so inspiring and personally so relatable. I’ve been an expat for five years in Turkey and I try to travel around here as much as I can. I can’t say the desire to see more of the world has ever gone away. It’s a beautiful life!

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

    1. Hi Kelsey, thank you for your feedback and glad you can relate to this post.

      I don’t think the desire ever goes away and I find if I’ve been stationary in one place for a while, I get itchy feet.
      Wow, 5 years in Turkey, I should come and visit you as I’m in southern Italy, so not far. 😉

      Liked by 1 person

    5. So do I.

      My first visa took 5 months from start to when I got the visa in my hand. This was after I flew back to Australia to apply for my 12-month visa. Then had to re-apply within 8 days of landing in Italy for my Permesso. I hear it’s taking 9 to 10 months now to renew. This is crazy as some people can only get 12 months and you have to re-apply 2 months in advance of expiry – it’s like a mouse on a wheel!

      Liked by 1 person

    6. That’s crazy, visa paperwork can be such a nightmare. I kind of have it easy since my husband is Turkish and we were able to get me a family visa. But my old tourist visa days were rough! It changed all the time

      Liked by 1 person

    7. Yeah and Italy loves its bureaucracy, as we know, but it’s also trying to stop migrants to the country, which is a blanket rule.

      Because I’m Australian, I pay for absolutely everything in Italy and don’t get anything free, not even healthcare – although I don’t expect a free ride either. So each day I live here, I’m adding the the economy.
      Funny thing is that my father and his family were all born here but as he gained Australian citizenship before I was born and before 1992 when Italy allowed dual-citizenship – I need to go through a long-winded process to gain Italian Citizenship.
      My mother was born in Fiume in northern Italy, which after WWII, Italy ‘gave’ to Yugoslavia, so that side is a can of worms.

      Liked by 1 person

    9. Indeed it is and never appreciated how rich my background was when growing up in Australia and trying not to be different. Especially with my Salami and sun-dried tomato sandwiches that other children wanted to swap, for their boring Vegemite sandwiches.

      I’m slowing uncovering more family history, it’s extremely interesting but extremely hard on my mother’s side as her family went to Australia as DP’s in the early ’50s. My father paid to go to Australia (also in the ’50s), which took 40 days – almost Biblical – as there was no food or work in this part of Italy after the war. My parents met and married in Australia.

      Actually, you may be interested in my trip to the State Archives here in Cosenza. The restoration work done here is an incredible labour of love.

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Hi Sonna…thank you for commenting.

      You can always start by travelling within your own country, which can be much cheaper than travelling to another country. Or, when you’ve saved up some money, travel to a cheap country so your money goes much further. 🙂

      Like

  65. I have always pondered on whether to travel solo haha
    I am from the SEA region and have yet to explore Europe. I think I will probably go on a backpacking trip the next year! where do you think is a good place to start in Europe?
    Also, I am a new blogger. I would appreciate if you give my blog a look and follow me!
    Keep the great posts coming!

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

    1. Hi, thank you for stopping by…guess you worked out from this post that my advice would be yes, go for it!

      A good place to start would depend on the season in which you travel to Europe, especially as you’re from Singapore – cold may get to you. Putting this aside, I would start at the Baltic States, Poland, then travel across to any of the more frequented European destinations. Also depends on what you would like to see when travelling, such as history, mountains, food, people, etc.

      Just visited and followed your blog.

      Like

  67. My favourite part about traveling is the novelty of it. Each day is something new and exciting. My wife and I are currently on 10th month on the road and loving every minute of it

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

    2. We started in Europe, we did the UK, France, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Italy and Greece
      Then we did Morocco, Tanzania, UAE, Turkey, India, Nepal, Indonesia, Philippines, Japan
      We are currently in Brazil. We planned to do 12 months like yourself but we’ll be out of cash so we’re only going to make 11

      Liked by 1 person

    3. Wow, what a fantastic trip! You’ve covered loads of ground.

      I’ve touched on Brazil when I went down the Amazon on a barge for a few days and got as far as the Tri-border (Brazil, Colombia, Peru). That’s an interesting trip I will write about soon…
      At least you’ll be out for another 11 months. 🙂

      Like

    1. Hi Kimi, thanks for sharing with me why you travel and for your kind words – please feel free to share this post with friends or others that may need a little push. Meeting new people is definitely up there… 🙂

      Like

    1. Thank you for your kind feedback.
      Yes, education is a huge part of travelling and inspiring others to travel is very satisfying.

      I’ve just followed your blog but it’s a shame I can’t leave you a comment.

      Like

  73. I am new here and i can say that i really liked this article. However, I’ve just wrote a while ago something with the same title but a bit different. My perspective was more simple and related our daily lives and regular travel plans as vacations. I was making a point that the main reason of traveling is not only to explore new stuff or culture but to escape our sociability and work, the daily routines and live stress-free for a while.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

    1. Thank you for your comment. That is a question I also get constantly and totally agree with you.
      I go without all the material ‘must have’ stuff that I really don’t need so as I can travel, and always have done. For me this is an easy exchange. 😉

      Liked by 1 person

    3. Isn’t it amazing that when you make the decision to stop buying stuff you don’t need, your cash starts to accumulate quickly?

      We don’t need all this extra cluttering in our lives and think sometimes, we go through this as we’re not happy in our lives. There’s a reason it’s labelled “Retail Therapy”.

      Liked by 2 people

    4. I can’t help but to agree more! money definitely does accumulate quickly when you stop buying the unnecessary items within our lives…
      I used to use that type of therapy all the time, now I use what I like to call travel therapy haha

      Liked by 2 people

  77. Hi there
    Great writeup…
    Felt like reading my mind …I m an avid traveller….love to travel…not ur way though , but will start now….me n my husband love travelling, yes risk taking .we hav planned our own travel destination n our own routes….
    Thanks ur write up was an inspiration….

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

    1. Hey…many thanks for the great feedback. It doesn’t matter the mode in which you travel, it’s important that you are travelling. I’m honoured that we’re kindred spirits. 😉

      Like

  85. Loved your post. Actually, I wanted to do a “Penniless Travel” thing lately. But as usual, there were voices of concern from my family. So I vowed to work for another year, save enough money, then get going. Thank you for this beautiful post. Gave me a warm hope.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply

    1. Hi Sarath, thank you for your feedback and taking the time to comment – much appreciated.

      I don’t think we’ll ever have enough money to do everything when we travel, so sometimes, you just have draw the line and head out. Always good to have a little put aside for a return ticket home, if things should go wrong.

      Only my first trip, I took a MasterCard, as a backup only.
      I remember returning to Australia with around $850 owing on my card – a lot of money for me back in 1985. Now, this is the weird thing, I’d never played a Lottery before and decided to try my luck. I couldn’t stand having the noose of a debt around my neck and without a job, this was my last resort. Incredulously, I won that week! It was just enough to pay off my credit card bill – how stoked was I? Couldn’t believe my luck and I have to confess, I’ve had a couple of goes since and won nothing, so I stopped.

      Would love to hear when you set out on your trip! 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

  87. Really enjoyed reading what you wrote. As to why I travel, I guess I need stimulation and a strong desire to learn about everything around me. While I’ve moved a lot for work, I’ve never felt like I truly belonged anywhere, except on the road.

    Right now I’ve settled in my hometown for a bit and using the opportunity to explore whatever my backyard has to offer. It’s incredibly gratifying to constantly find something new. Until such a time as I feel everything is done, I suppose I’ll leave again.

    Cheers!

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply

    1. Hi, many thanks for your feedback and I enjoyed reading about why you travel.

      Stimulation and learning are definitely good reasons. Some people are just born to be on the road and have many homes globally. I always feel at home wherever I am.

      Liked by 1 person

  89. Beautiful pictures and beautiful words. It doesn’t surprise us that what you shared is very similair to what we discovered and wrote in our guide-book Stress Free Currency.
    Looking forward to more of your adventures.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply

  90. Nice article! We have our own reasons to travel. I’m also an aspiring traveler and I want to explore the world as much as I can while I still can. Seeing little portions of this vast world one at a time always makes me realize how small I am and how there’s much to explore out there.

    Liked by 4 people

    Reply

    1. Thank you for the feedback.
      You’re right, seeing even a small portion of our globe and its remarkable nature makes us realise how insignificant we are, but what a huge and destructive impact we’re having on our planet.

      Liked by 2 people

    3. I do as well, especially the animal exploitation for tourists in SE Asia – it breaks my heart.
      Regardless of how small, we can all do something to start the change movement. It’s up to us to change something if we don’t like what we see. 😉

      Liked by 1 person

  91. I think I travel to find a piece of my soul that was lost piece by piece because of all the pain of the world. I travel to refresh my horizons and regenerate my creativity that’s been dull because of my daily routine activities. I travel to find light, to learn that in my darkest hours, there’s another part in this world where the sun shines bright.

    Please check out my blog for more travel inspiration: https://alyzzaspeaks.wordpress.com/

    If ever you decide to visit the Philippines, I’d willingly tour you around!

    Liked by 4 people

    Reply

    1. Thank you Aly for sharing the fundamental reasons of why you travel. I hope that travel can bring you peace.
      Wow, what a very kind and wonderful offer…you never know, I might take you up on that in the future. 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

  95. Thank you for a great post. Check out our blog on traveling at sea on a budget 🙂 looking forward to read more from you!

    Harryfloats.wordpress.com

    Liked by 4 people

    Reply

    1. Thanks for commenting.
      I find when I travelled for work (only a couple of times) in the past, I never really saw anything apart from the inside of a hotel and workplace walls – still, it gets you away.
      I’ll check out your site. 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

  100. Travel is most important to our life reason being, If I travel some where else I feel very free and energetic. and I have seen many other things just like nature beauty, fresh air, and environment. many time i have book a flight tickets with Airline Flight Support (www.airlinechangeflights.com). This Flight booking site is very helpful and many things are give it there customer. So Just book a flight and get ready to fly.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply

  102. Your blog always inspire me. As you said that absolutely true, we travel for gaining new experiences, making new friends, discovering new things and taking rest from the job & all our other responsibilities.

    Liked by 4 people

    Reply

    1. Hi Tania, thank you for your great feedback and it always makes me very happy to hear that I’m able to inspire another traveller.

      Just visited singaporeguidebook.com – love the clean design and easy usability of your website. I also noticed that you cater for Indonesian travellers. I’m hoping to one day take my travel journal from the 4 months spent in Indonesia back in 1998 and upload it with photos to this site. 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  104. Such a good read! I began travelling as an escape from my own world – my world of depression, despair and anxiety (what my blog is all about). I desperately wanted to be the girl who could just get on a plane and fly alone to another country – and so I did. It didn’t take much for me to get addicted, and be looking at flights and planning trips every free moment I get!

    Liked by 4 people

    Reply

    1. Thank you for your feedback and for leaving the reason why you travel.

      How fantastic that travel has made you look forward to life and helped you deal with depression. It takes a lot of courage to take your first travel step, especially alone. Hope that travel continues to help you through hard phases. 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  106. An absolutely incredible post! I like breaking through same boundaries when I travel. It’s scary initially but then I remember all those times I didn’t and how I kicked myself for it and then I throw myself into it. It’s also lovely meeting other open minded travellers 🙂 looking forward to reading more about your travels!

    Liked by 4 people

    Reply

    1. Thank you for taking the time to comment and sharing your thoughts.

      I think that only other travellers really understand why we travel so much and throw ourselves into crazy situations – great to feel alive. 😉

      Liked by 2 people

  114. I loved reading this! I moved overseas 8 years ago and never looked back; I think you discover even more about yourself than you do about the outside world when you travel, and the experiences help you see the similarities between people, instead of the differences. The world becomes smaller when you travel it.

    Liked by 5 people

    Reply

    1. Thank you!

      You certainly do, especially when you’re thrown into situations, which require quick thinking or decisions. I also learnt that the poorest people seem the most giving and happiest. And that the majority want peace, to get on with their lives, see their children grow up in a safe environment and receive education, and ensure there is enough food on the table.

      Great feedback on why you travel. 🙂

      Liked by 3 people

  120. This is amazing! I have a similar mindset about travel. You can read books and watch tv all day long but theres no better way to learn to appreciate another’s way of life than by traveling. Travel breaks down barriers and it’s essential to our existence as human beings.

    Liked by 4 people

    Reply

    3. Absolutely and wish that more people would pry themselves out of their secure homely bubble to experience the world. But then again, it’s not for everybody, is it?

      Another way of looking at travel is it constantly throws your into unknown situations, for which you have to come up with solutions – it’s either sink or swim. 😉

      Liked by 1 person

  124. What a wonderful read! I felt like you were saying all my thoughts out load and I love it. I just started a blog about my own travel adventures and the Why of it all. I can really relate to how much you love it. It’s definitely my Happy Place. I hope that I’ll get over the pond and around the globe before long. For now I am enjoying the hidden joys of this continent. Keep writing and NEVER GIVE UP!

    Liked by 4 people

    Reply

    1. Hi, thank you so much for the great feedback and sharing your thoughts with me.

      This post was a bit of a half-hour brain dump one day. I just felt that I had to write it all down as it was swimming around in my head, but hopefully, it answers the continual questions…that’s of course if people read it! 😉

      I’m so glad you’ve decided to overcome your injury and start to travel – it will feed your soul.

      Liked by 2 people

    2. Thank you for following my blog, you’re my first! II think you are correct, it will feed my poor emaciated soul. As for the brain dump, I’m in complete support and to plan to do the same when possible. I imagine it’s unwise to do it all the time though. Do you find there is a “magic” length for this type of writing? A reading sweet spot for readers? I look forward to sharing my experiences but don’t want to be to become a SMDITL -Social Media Day In The Life.
      What is your next adventure? I look forward to reading it.

      Liked by 2 people

    3. Wow, I’ve never been someone’s first! 😉

      I’m not sure about ‘magic’ length as it depends on your audience, the post’s content, and how interesting the post is to readers. I vary the length of my posts as it just depends how much information I have to share.

      I’m currently living in southern Italy, so that’s keeping me quite busy for now…and yours?

      Liked by 1 person

  134. This was an amazing post! I never would have listened to Pink Floyd until I read this post. It definitely made it more interactive. Honestly, my first trip alone was to Canada for University, I spent 2 1/2 years there. My desire is to be a world traveler, and hopefully I do travel the world one day. For now I just write blogs on the few experiences I have had.

    Liked by 4 people

    Reply

    1. Excellent! I’m so glad I’ve introduced you to Pink Floyd – brilliant band and you’ll have to check out more of their songs.

      That’s a good introduction to travelling. Don’t expect to see the whole world in your lifetime, unless you zip through that quickly that you’re only checking countries off your bucket list – not my style.

      Writing blogs is a great way to keep your dream alive and focus on future travel. I’ll pop over to your site now and thank you for your great feedback. 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

  135. Wow, awesome post! When I first saw this post I thought it’s a simple question about traveling. But it’s more informative post for all folks. This post gave a message like traveling is one of the best parts of everyone’s life.

    Liked by 4 people

    Reply

  138. I absolutely love this post! It describes in better words than I could use my love for travel. I’m always looking to hitch a ride with friends (or sometimes people I just met) to travel wherever they’re going–the destination doesn’t even matter to me; there’s just something about going somewhere new and learning the history behind it. Marveling at the culture and climate changes and imagining how it could have looked hundreds of years ago or before it was settled. To quote Anne Shirley, “There’s so much scope for the imagination.”

    Liked by 4 people

    Reply

    1. Exactly! The destination isn’t crucial to me either as I’ll pretty much go anywhere – it’s the amazing things that happen along the way.

      You can can always return to a destination but you can never replicate your previous experience. Thanks for your great feedback! 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

  140. Awesome post. I love your 14 reasons for traveling, and feel that you echoed my thoughts. I’d add one more: to give myself and my existence better context. Somehow, travel brings me inner peace. Thanks for the wonderful post.

    Liked by 4 people

    Reply

  142. When I read the beginning I scrolled past the rest because it’s obvious. You have survived into the cyber and the world is your oyster the most important thing you can do for all of us is too keep inspiring others like you and I to keep traveling be break mental boundaries. Fear is for the dead! Thank you

    Liked by 4 people

    Reply

  144. I travel to find out what I’m capable of. I’m scared to be vulnerable. Being a planner, things don’t always go according to plan when traveling. So at least now, I know that when things doesn’t go my way, I’ll still be fine 🙂

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply

  145. Really inspiring post Nilla, it was a lovely read! Travel really does bring me genuine happiness and I really liked that I could read that joy in your words too! Thanks and loving the blog!

    Liked by 4 people

    Reply

  148. Couldn’t have said it any better myself! You hit the nail on the head with this one. The day I stop travelling is the day I can no longer physically move and then I’ll probably just watch travel shows on the Tele!

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply

  150. We like to travel for around five weeks at a time, staying for a week or so in a few different places so we really see everything and enjoy it. We find people say to us how lucky we are, but we remind them we work hard and budget carefully to pay for our wonderful holidays. I hope we get to enjoy many more wonderful journeys.

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply

    1. Thank you for the insight. Sounds like you guys have it all sussed out. 🙂

      Agree, it’s not luck, unless you’re born rich. It’s hard work and compromising on going without of today’s ‘must haves’ in order to travel. We can’t have everything, so must choose – we make our own path in life. I’m sure with your philosophy, you will explore much more and look forward to reading more of your adventures.

      Liked by 1 person

  151. I live to travel!! The world is everyone’s oyster, there is so much to see and do, so many things to learn from other cultures! I love everything about travelling! My ambition is to see the world… (and taste gins from these various places :P) keep travelling!

    Liked by 5 people

    Reply

    1. Fantastic reasons and great philosophy in life – but I’m a tad bias!

      Partial to a little Gin, I like your idea of tasting Gins from around the world…food for thought. 😉

      Like

  152. Fabulous post Nilla, I love the quotes you found too..and love this tune by Pink Floyd. I first took off to Oz in 2005 because me and hubby were having issues, so I went away to think about things… and my travels gave me the strength to go home and end things and that was the best decision I have ever made..my life is here in Thailand, soon to be Spain (I have decided) . That travel bug never goes away! I get comments from friends and family, you’re so brave, lucky etc etc…not really, I am just living my life, as you are! Have a fab week 🙂 xxx

    Liked by 6 people

    Reply

    1. Thank you Gill.
      I believe travel does make you stronger and more assertive. Glad you were able to get back on track with your life. Any particular part of Spain or undecided yet?
      Yes actually, I get the “you’re so lucky” as well. No luck involved, just working hard and making you’re own decisions in life.
      Have a great one! 🙂 xx

      Liked by 1 person

    2. Yes agreed! I am moving to Valencia, no idea why as I have never been hahaha but the more I see and read I realise it’s the place for me!!! i am very excited albeit a little apprehensive but I need to dive into the deep end! 🙂 xx

      Liked by 1 person

  154. I travel for multiple reasons, to see other worlds around me. Second life is so precious and short, my daughter almost died when she was born. God saved her life and brought her through. Ever since then my husband I take her places even if it’s expensive because we want to spend precious time with her. You never know how much time there is left- your life or a family or friends.

    Liked by 5 people

    Reply

    1. You’re right, life it so precious – enjoy every moment with your daughter and each other. We should appreciate every day that we wake up – not moan. Especially as these days, it’s a privilege growing old.

      Thank you for letting me in on why you travel. 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

    2. Hi! Yeah sure I travel because I want explore abd experience different cultures, people, languages, many more. I travel because life is too short we must live life to the fullest. How about you?

      Liked by 2 people

  158. Fantastic post! As hard as it is to believe, there are neighbors who are completely content to just stay at home. I think I am a ‘mix’. Love to be at home, love to travel every now and then. XxX
    Ps….that Pink Floyd song, one of my favorites too 🙂

    Liked by 6 people

    Reply

    1. Thanks Patty! Hope you can understand my views on travel – sometimes it’s hard to put in words or get the message across.
      Sounds as though you have the best of both worlds. 😉 x

      Pink Floyd’s music is timeless and apt for this post!

      Liked by 1 person

    2. Oh absolutely dear Nilla! And absolutely an inspiring post for those who want to travel and have a fixed mindset 😉
      How is Italy these days? As unusually hot as it is over here?

      Liked by 1 person

    5. We’re not at that stage yet, I don’t think…

      It’s tragic for all victims not just humans. We have a lot of bush fires in Australia, as you may know. Although a lot of our native flora needs these to germinate, the fauna suffers terrible.

      Liked by 1 person

    6. Well, never thought I would say it, being a woman of the sun, but ‘Let it rain! ‘ 😉
      Oh and totally forgot to mention this too: a fantastic photograph of the lady at the beginning of this post!
      Wishing you a cool and lovely rest of the day, XxX

      Liked by 1 person

    7. Wow, must be hot then!

      Thank you. I printed my lady in Laos very large when I had the exhibition in January this year – she looks great printed and really brings her to life.

      Have fun and stay cool. 🙂 x

      Liked by 2 people

  159. Great blog post, Nilla! You have so many inspiring quotes from people who understand that wanderlust.

    I travel because Ia so curious about the world. The cultures, the food, the amazing landscapes and interesting cities… I don’t hear people asking me why I travel but I often wonder why they don’t have the same curiosity.

    Liked by 10 people

    Reply

    1. Thanks Aixa!
      Exactly, curiosity is up there, where would we be without this? I’m always amazed when people I’ve met or friends and relatives, say they have no desire to see anywhere apart from their own town – this blows me away and just can’t understand it at all. But then again, if they’re happy with this path, what does it matter and who are we to cast judgement?

      Liked by 1 person

  160. I love this post! It has been such a pleasure getting to know you and hearing about your many travel adventures. I’ve always had a strong desire to travel and I wish I had done more long haul travel when I was younger – but I did a lot of road trips while living in Toronto. I can hear you saying, “you know it’s never too late to travel, just get up and go!” and you are so right. This year I’ve traveled a bit more and I’m hoping to continue that trend and do more in these coming months and years. Why do I travel? I guess by nature I love discovering new places, it makes me feel alive and it wonders me how a whole life exists outside of my own. It is both humbling and empowering!

    Liked by 9 people

    Reply

    1. Ciao Lulu!

      I love road trips and there’s nothing wrong with exploring your own country. Actually, I need to see more of Australia. Glad you can relate to my post and yes, you are hearing correctly. 😉

      Great reasons for why you travel and thanks for sharing them with me – travel certainly is both humbling and empowering.

      Like

  161. I love this post! Getting to know you better and your life is just great. I loved travelling when I was younger, then came a husband, kids, etc. etc. etc. All I can say is good for you. You are rich and blessed beyond words!

    Liked by 9 people

    Reply

  162. Excellent post Nilla, and one I can so relate too. Though I haven’t reached as many countries, it was a common question for relatives to ask my parents or to ask people I knew, “Where the heck is Suzanne now?” LOL. Then I met the Squire and gave him the bug 🙂 Anyway, love this post for many reasons. Good on ya, Nilla. 🙂 X

    Liked by 11 people

    Reply

    1. Thanks Suzanne and knew it would resonate with you – we’re meant to roam this earth and not to live in one place!

      I wrote this post a couple of months ago but had other posts I wanted to publish first, so decided that today was a good enough day as any to publish. 🙂 x

      Liked by 3 people

    3. Yes, but you’re a machine and write several each week.
      I struggle writing one per week. If I didn’t have to build my other website, I’m sure I could write more. But then again, life gets in the way also. 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

    4. People used to call me a machine when we owned our small farm/orchard 😊 The excuse that life gets in the way is bullshit😜 Everyone has things to do places and people to see. Just prioritising. I only write when we are housesitting other times I just post photos on Instagram 😊 I am slowing the machine down as some weeks only one is spat out 🙄

      Liked by 3 people

    5. The ‘life’ comment was tongue in cheek and I’ve used that with you before. 😉
      All about time management and I think the more time you have, the more you waste – in my case anyway!

      Liked by 3 people

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