Why Travel?

I ponder this question regularly. It is something that puts my wants and needs into perspective. Each time my husband and I plan a trip for ourselves, with our family, or for others, we always ask the question, “Why am I traveling and why this particular place?”

The answers can vary from relaxation, celebration, education, work, family time, and many other reasons. Sometimes you must get away from the stress of work and parenthood, and a relaxing trip to the beach is just what your soul needs. Maybe you are off to celebrate a family member or close friend’s wedding or your parent’s wedding anniversary.

A few years ago, our family traveled to Mexico City. My in-laws were living there at the time, and we made it a priority to take our kids there at least once while we had built-in guides who spoke Spanish. As we were driving (which is terrifying in Mexico City), my daughter said these words from the back seat; “Our playroom is bigger than some of these whole houses.”

We travel so we can learn things we would never experience if we stayed in our comfort zones. So we can see things that change our perspective of the world.

In 2019, I had the fantastic opportunity to travel to Johannesburg, South Africa. The place my father was born and raised until he was 15. I heard stories my whole life from him and my aunt and uncles. I was able to stand in the driveway of the home he grew up in; I was able to walk down the street he walked every day to school. I stood where he learned to play soccer and cricket.

We travel to walk where others have walked and to see the world through their eyes for just a moment.

For me, the answer is often many things. But when I break it down to the core, it comes down to this fact. I believe God created this world, and we are all children of God, so because of that, I want to see as many corners of the earth as possible and meet as many of God’s children as I can. Even it is just for a few moments that our paths cross. I have met some of the most humble people and seen some of the most amazing animals and stared at the breathtaking scenery. In all of it, I see my Heavenly Father, and that brings me closer to Him.

That is why I travel. That is why we should all travel.