Life is full of tough decisions. Often we are forced to choose the practical pathway over the more interesting one. That being said, there are some life experiences worth having even if it means throwing a little caution to the wind. Experiences with new places, people and cultures are what really pay off in the long-term. Here are 10 things you must tick off your travel bucket list before turning 25:
Home will always be there waiting when you get back. But you won’t know what you’re missing – and what makes home special – without experiencing life elsewhere.
Not only does learning a second language allow you to communicate with people from a completely different cultural background than you, but there are also long-term benefits to learning a foreign language. People who speak multiple languages, for example, are less likely to suffer from the negative affects of dementia and Alheizmer’s when they are older.
Going somewhere that feels exotic and takes you completely out of your comfort zone will blow your mind. Seeing how a whole foreign culture gets on makes you realize how big the world really is and how beautifully diverse it can be.
Living in and learning about a new culture will make you more aware of how culture is key in shaping how people act and think. You’ll start to see the limitations and advantages of your home culture. Having that multicultural perspective will also make you more adept at connecting with people from different backgrounds.
Traveling somewhere completely alone is an important experience for developing self-sufficiency and independence. Also, when you’re alone you only have your own eyes and ears to take everything in, so the experience isn’t influenced or tainted by the perspective of the people around you.
Oftentimes the best way to get to know a foreign culture is by making a friend from that culture. People are the most important piece of society, carrying on tradition, language, cuisine and more. Establishing a friendship with someone from a different cultural background can be a rich, rewarding experience and leads to a more multicultural and inclusive perspective on the world.
It’s the best way to discover a new place and learn the streets of a city.
Turn off your phone, unplug for a full day and go to a place where you can truly commune with nature and disconnect from the rest of the world.
Food is a delicious and essential element to culture. Trying a new, exotic cuisine is a great way to expand your cultural horizons and discover new flavors.
Get on the road and explore! Even better if you’re not exactly sure where you’re going. Just let your wanderlust take you to a new place and enjoy the journey.
Sources: Goodreads, BusinessInsider.com
Photo 1. based on Travel, by Moyan Brenn, CC-by-2.0
Photo 2. based on Star Ferry (HONG KONG) III, by Chi King, CC-by-2.0
Photo 3. based on Stele in Temple of Literature, by Larry W. Lo, CC-by-SA 2.0
Photo 4. based on Man Sitting Amongst Bags, by Luica Mak, CC-by-ND 2.0
Photo 5. based on Policia Colombia Horses, by Policía Nacional de los colombianos, CC-by-SA 2.0
Photo 7. based on Lots of Love, by Aaron Guy Leroux, CC-by-SA 2.0
Photo 8. based on Lost, by Roman Königshofer, CC-by-ND 2.0
Photo 9. based on Meditating, by Take Back Your Health Conference, CC-by-2.0
Photo 10. based on Barcelona – Tapas Bar, by Adam Wyles, CC-by-ND 2.0
Photo 11. based on Environs, by Nicholas A. Tonelli, CC-by-2.0