I think one of my favourite things to do in life is travel! I’ve been fortunate enough to have started travelling from a young age as it’s always been something my family and I did together. One of my first trips as a baby was on a big family trip to Mexico. I don’t remember any of it but apparently I got pneumonia. Who gets pneumonia in Mexico!?
Whether you’re sitting on a beach or backpacking it’s crazy how much you can learn from travelling. On a recent trip to New York with my mom and my best friend I got to thinking about how much travelling has taught me and some things I’ve learned along the way that I thought would be fun to share!
Getting lost isn’t that bad
I’ll be the first to admit that I’m directionally challenged, just ask Josh or the rest of my family. But one thing I’ve learned on my travels is that it’s ok to get lost. I remember while on a trip with my mom in Venice we got SO lost! And my mom is seriously the best navigator so you know that when she gets lost it’s legit. BUT all that to say, we actually had a lot of fun and it ended up being a really memorable moment of the trip for both of us.
I’m not saying toss all your maps away and go rogue but I think there is something to be said for going with the flow and seeing where the day takes you.
It’s not all about you
I have two different perspectives on this one. Let me explain…
I’ve never travelled solo but have travelled in groups a number of times which has definitely taught me a lot. Being an only child I was always used to it just being me, so when you throw other people into the mix compromise is necessary if you want to have a good trip.
Everybody always has different priorities, but when you’re able to get out of your own lane and experience other’s passions it can be really eye opening. Maybe you’ll fall in love with something you’ve never thought of or have been scared to try? My dad is pretty adventurous so travelling with him has always opened me up to new experiences, like zip-lining through the rainforest, that I may not have tried if I was on my own.
ON THE OTHER HAND…
The other aspect of ‘it’s not all about you’, is that whenever I travel I’m always reminded of how BIG the world really is. I know, that’s common sense but it’s something we can forget about especially if you live in a first world country. Travelling opens your eyes to other’s realities and it’s an amazing reminder that the world has SO much to offer outside your little bubble.
A smile is universal
As much as I wish I was bilingual, sadly I can only speak english (lame). But one thing I have learned is that a smile and a friendly hello can go a long way in so many countries.
Live in the moment
Before I get into it, I have to admit this is something I definitely struggle with. At the end of the day my job is as a content creator and creating travel content is probably one of my favourite things to do!
Whether you work in social media or not, I think we could all use a little more disconnecting and reconnecting and what better way to do that than while travelling!
There’s nothing like a good pair of shoes
This point might be kind of silly but it’s SO true! I’ve travelled to so many different places wearing the most impractical shoes that I definitely ended up paying the price for. Between band-aids and blisters, a bad pair of shoes can really wreck your whole travel experience which is why I always make sure to break in a pair or two before I go.
Before leaving on my latest trip to NYC, I found the cutest and comfiest pair of shoes from Le Château! I loved that they were a neutral sneaker that went with practically all of my outfits. I was able to walk in them all day-every day with no issues which was ah-mazing!
Comfort zones are made to be broken
One thing I love about travelling is that it helps bring me out of my shell. When you’re put in a situation you’re not familiar with you have to adapt and it’s crazy to learn what you’re actually capable of when you’re pushed out of your comfort zone.
Inspiration is everywhere
You really don’t have to travel far to learn that inspiration can be found everywhere! Whether we’re travelling to another continent or doing a quick trip to the mountains I’m always finding inspo from the people and the places. As a creative I think it’s something that keeps me wanting more!
