Exploring the Joys of International Travel: An Unforgettable Journey Around the Globe

As a seasoned traveler, there's always something new to discover in the world of international travel. One of my favorite aspects is the feeling of being a curious but unknown tourist, especially if I don't speak the local language. It opens up a world of new experiences, foods, and people that are simply not available back home.

Embracing the Journey and New Experiences

For me, part of the travel experience is not just the destinations but the journey itself. I enjoy airports and flying, as I find the process of traveling to new places both familiar and fresh. Each landing at a new airport provides a portal to exciting new adventures, from trying new foods to meeting new people.

I am currently on a 14-month journey around the world, and there are countless elements that make international travel a truly enriching experience:

Delving into New Cultures and Cuisine

One of the best aspects of international travel is the opportunity to explore different cultures through their unique foods. Whether it's trying street food in Asia, sampling authentic local cuisine in Europe, or indulging in a new type of food back home, the culinary adventure is just as much a part of the journey as the cultural exploration.

The Landing Experience and Passport Controls

For me, the first experience of a new destination is the landing, followed closely by dealing with passport control and customs. Customs can be a humorous experience with a full body cavity search, but for me, it's the landing that sets the stage for the upcoming adventures.

Ridding Daily Distractions to Focus on the Moment

One of the most significant benefits of international travel is the ability to escape the daily distractions of everyday life. Here at home, news channels like CNN and Fox News can be overwhelming, but on a plane or in a new country, these distractions disappear.

Grocery shopping is replaced by the importance of finding unique restaurants and trying new cuisines. Museums take on a new significance as they offer a deeper dive into the culture you're exploring.

Conversations in restaurants, hotels, and museums become rich discussions that often involve bridging cultural divides. For instance, during a recent trip to the UK, I found it intriguing to hear different perspectives on Brexit.

Time Standstill and Intense Learning

International travel brings a sense of timelessness. A week of the same routine at home may seem long, but a week of travel is filled with distinctive and memorable experiences.

Each day can be a new learning experience, spanning language, food, history, and culture. These immersive experiences have shaped me into a lifelong international traveler. My journey began in December 1969, and I hope to complete it again in December 2019, marking 50 years of global exploration.

Join me on my journey, and let us explore the joys of international travel and the endless opportunities it presents.