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5 reasons to travel

10/11/2012

67 Comments

 
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-Discover enlightenment
      I do not necessarily mean religious enlightenment, moreover the enlightenment of self discovery. If you let yourself surrender and become lost in the place you’re visiting and shed all of your preconceived biases, judgements and worries; you then become vulnerable. This vulnerability is a huge step in the right direction - without it you are a tourist, going sight to sight and never changing and never growing - taking nothing from the experience. There is a very strong feeling of freedom, knowledge and understanding once you fully release yourself and connect with your travels - within this feeling you actually begin to find who you really are and whom you wish to become. This is why many (myself included) tend to preach about letting travel change you. If you reach enlightenment through travel, you are never quite the same again - it’s a wondrous experience!  (Photo from EverestUncensored.org)

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-Grow wiser
     Moving away from the typical tourist trail is a necessity for a great travel experience. Immerse yourself within the local culture, go where the locals meet, eat what the locals eat, and never be afraid to strike up a conversation. Growing wiser is about having a greater understanding of the world, where wise and educated judgements are the only kind, if any at all. Those who are culturally foolish tend to have discriminations and lack in acceptance, typically ignorant of the real world - which sets up barriers. Growing into a better sense of wisdom leads to the ability of being able to see the true beauty in the world. This wisdom can alter your beliefs of what’s precious and maybe you will no longer take the aspects of life which are most important for granted.  (Photo by deviantart user Poeheej)


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-Meet people
      There are countless times that I’ve met a random local who taught me a wonderful lesson that I still remember to this day - from either their outlook on life, the way they perceived the world or their appreciation for life and the little things. Many times I’ve been offered a drink (or five), just because they were interested in having my company as well. My personal favorite is being invited to join local family dinner. This is the absolute BEST way to learn and feel as a part of the culture. By opening yourself up to local experiences you gain a stronger understanding of yourself and other people in the world.  (Photo by flickr user emm77)

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-Learn cultures
     There are countless cultures in the world, each unique in its own ways. Those who never leave their hometown or state are suffering in my opinion - I believe this is one of the reasons why prejudices continue to be nourished and passed down through the generations. The famous quote by Saint Augustine sums it up quite well, “The world is a book, and those who don’t travel only read one page.” When I travel, I make it a point to not only see the sights and the history, but to understand how each destination came to be how it is today. However, I only devote a small portion of my travel time to this aspect. My goal in each destination is to feel it, not just to know of it. Understanding a culture can take a hundred trips and even then you may never really totally understand it at all. But learning and accepting by feeling and becoming a part of it (even in some small way) is the only way to truly let that culture change you and assist you to grow (into a person of the world).  (Photo by Laura Rutgers)

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-Adventure
     There’s no shortage of adventure in this world - with extreme sports in the South Pacific to exploration of past ruins in the Middle East, as well as trying strange food delicacies in Asia to getting lost in the ancient back alleys of Europe. Besides the changing of your attitude and perception, travel can alter your courage and fortitude. Get out of your closed-in little box and let yourself live life to the fullest - remember, your days are numbered, so try something new. I’d like to leave you with one more quote by Mark Twain, “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”  (Photo by flickr user Zulu Incomplete)

67 Comments
Nocturnefirefay/Miss L.F link
10/11/2012 07:19:25 am

Beautiful and inspiring website. I'll enjoy reading your many posts and following your countless adventures! Already subscribed!
Best wishes to you and yours Brandon,
Miss L.F

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/10/2014 11:31:15 pm

Thank you for subscribing. I hope you find the content very informative and fun to read.

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Carole Gill link
10/11/2012 08:35:19 am

I love your site!
Extremely enticing. I feel like packing a bag and going away!
too busy though.
I'll be back of that you can be certain!

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/10/2014 11:43:02 pm

Thank you very much. If you could travel anywhere, where would it be? :)

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Karen link
10/12/2012 01:27:42 am

Inspiring site that makes me want to book a trip now.

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:02:40 am

Thank you very much. Your words of encouragement mean a lot me. Where would you like to travel to?

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Penelope link
10/15/2012 06:07:36 pm

...as if we didn't already have enough reasons to travel :) Stunning article, well done!

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:03:34 am

Thank you! I really enjoyed writing this. I am glad I had the opportunity to post it for your reading pleasure. :)

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Sylvie link
11/9/2012 02:42:23 pm

Just for the pleasure to discover the world...

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:05:03 am

I love to travel! Have you traveled anywhere exciting? :) I love to hear other's stories as well.

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Espy
11/15/2012 08:22:00 am

I think I have a new favorite quote by Mark Twain, thanks to you. This article is every reason I want to go travel...Stay adventurous!

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:09:30 am

Haha. Mark Twain has had many wonderful quotes. I am glad that you enjoyed the article. :)

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Bryan Schmidt link
11/19/2012 04:09:59 pm

very interesting to read your distinctions between what makes a tourist as opposed to a traveler. inspiring article! i look forward to reading more of your travel articles

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:11:31 am

Thank you! I am really glad that you enjoyed the article. It means a lot to me that you took the time to comment on my blog. :)

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Marina link
11/19/2012 08:13:57 pm

Your post is really interesting!
Thank you for this! :)

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:12:45 am

Than you! I hope that you get to travel to every destination of your dreams! Never let fear or money hold you back. :)

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Valya
12/3/2012 11:41:11 am

I love this post. Most people travel with the mindset they need to cram as much into their travel itinerary as possible to ‘see stuff’. Sadly, in their haste to catch the next tour bus, they never realize that the most valued aspect of their experience is within themselves. Thank you for expressing this so beautifully!

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:14:26 am

You hit the nail on the head with this comment. You are so right. :)

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Jo link
12/3/2012 04:26:31 pm

Totally love your list - travelling is the best way to grow as a person. I'm always stunned by the amount I learn on my travels - about myself, others and the world around me. The world is an amazing place!

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:17:00 am

Thank you very much. :) It is true that traveling allows our soul to open up and really take in everything. We learn so much about ourselves and others that we come in contact with along the way. Happy traveling. :)

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Kay link
12/4/2012 12:41:39 am

Wonderfully-written post, Brandon. You're definitely inspiring many people to travel from your blog here!

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:18:24 am

Thank you! It means a lot to me to read such kind words of encouragement. :)

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knod link
12/4/2012 03:53:17 am

I just subscribed and I can't wait to read more of your writing and travel wisdom.

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:19:29 am

It warms my heart to know that you subscribed. It truly means a lot to me. :) Thank you for your support.

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J Owens link
12/4/2012 04:43:26 am

Brandon you are a man after my own heart! I write about how traveling leads to self discovery and how it opens your mind to a whole new perspective on life and most importantly your own life in one of my blog post (of course I mention your blog for travel tips). But I truly encourage traveling, even if that involves driving to a state next door to your own.

While I was in graduate school I started a newsletter, Travel Elevator: Elevate your travel to new heights, encouraging travelers to stray from the boring touristy routes and to immerse themselves in the local culture. It’s the only way one should travel, otherwise what’s the purpose of having traveled?

The quotes you’ve chosen fit well in the piece, particularly the Mark Twain quote. It’s a great way to end your article. I hope it inspires people to travel, but also to evaluate other areas of their lives. Whether that involves trying something they've always wanted to do/accomplish, going back to school, or totally changing careers.

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:20:21 am

Thank you! Your comment is very inspiring to read. I hope that others read your comment as well!

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z
12/5/2012 01:48:20 pm

Inspiring! ^_^

Thanks for sharing...

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:21:04 am

You are most welcome! Thank you for your comment and support. :)

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Ian
12/19/2012 07:10:59 am

Staying with a host family while learning Spanish is a good way to learn the local culture. I recall feeling that I lived in Granada Nicaragua. Even the newspapers buddy would remind me to get a copy of the paper. I felt like a member of the community, a rare and welcome insight

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:22:02 am

Thank you for your comment! I enjoyed it when I had the chance to stay with host families. It certainly taught me a lot.

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hotel frankfurt link
1/1/2013 11:55:11 am

Hi,
I love this article about traveling, I also feel the same. I experienced the joy of traveling and learning. Keep it up mate.

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:23:01 am

Thank you so much for your comment. I am really glad that you enjoyed the read.

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Marina Nani link
1/15/2013 05:30:17 pm

Thank you for putting your pen on paper! you are an exceptional eye opener and your Pen will inspire the world. We have to learn to be kind to each other, give and share, help preserve authenticity, make friends and respect social variety, try to see the beauty of this world for what it is , not for what it costs, and create bridges between our cultures.For almost two decades now, I am providing a Home Away From Home,a better solution within the hospitality industry, so people acknowledge their right to travel the world as travelers vs. tourism, regardless the reason of their trip.The Hotel Alternative provides an ideal solution for families travelling away from home and on the lookout for quality, privacy, comfort, authenticity and exclusivity. Not surprisingly, most travelers are excited by the novelty of the concept and loyal to their hosts with whom they created a bond during their stay, they go back to the same property. As my family business is expanding globally now, my job is to write about AND FOR travelers and why they should have their own front door during their trip and experience life as locals, not tourists.

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:24:06 am

Thank you so much for your support. It means a lot to me that you enjoyed the rad. I also found your comment quite inspiring. I hope other have found it the same as well. :)

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ciki link
2/13/2013 07:10:49 pm

Try new cuisine! That's mine! :D

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:25:03 am

YUM! New cuisine sounds amazing right about now! Let's set a date. :P

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Monique Y. Wells link
2/13/2013 10:36:55 pm

We are kindred spirits, Brendon, and of like mind when it comes to the joys and benefits of travel. Your post is beautiful!

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:25:52 am

Thank you so much for your support! It means a lot to me. :)

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Bennett link
2/14/2013 04:23:51 pm

I fully support all of this. However I also think the touristy trail has its place too. One day you're being invited to a meal, then the next you're exploring [insert famous landmark here]. I think the important thing is to keep everything in balance, but then again, that's the same wherever you are, right?

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:26:51 am

I can agree with your comment, yes. Things can be similar in each place.

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Michael link
2/15/2013 02:47:24 am

This is a truly moving piece! Very well written and inspirational. Thank you for sharing.

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:27:43 am

Thank you very much for your kind words, and support. It really means a lot.

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Marc Johnston link
2/20/2013 06:56:25 pm

My family an I travel al lot - its what we work for, to get on a plane and go. Last year we did New York City and Australia within 9 months of each other. There's an education that travel gives that's not available if you sit at home and my kids 9,11 and 13 love it. We're currently planning a more extensive trip around the US and looking forward to all it throws up at us. The blog is great, kinda makes you feel "on the road"

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:28:35 am

I am glad to hear that you get the chance to travel! Where is your favorite place to holiday?

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6/2/2013 10:20:49 pm

I have become a big fan fan of your blog just by reading this article .thanks for sharing this great article.Looking forward to read such more great articles.Keep it up. :)

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:29:27 am

Thank you! Your kind words mean a lot to me. :)

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travel advertising link
7/15/2013 11:16:53 pm

Nice post. This post is different from what I read on most blog.

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 10:47:02 pm

Thank you very much. I am glad to hear that you enjoyed the material.

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8/1/2013 04:42:30 pm

Understanding a culture can take a hundred trips and even then you may never really totally understand it at all.

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 10:48:32 pm

I agree with you on that. It can take more than one trip to fully understand a new culture. That is why one must return for another visit. :)

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click here link
8/11/2013 07:50:59 pm

I love travelling and I used to visit different places around the globe. Travelling is a wonderful learning experience. You can meet new people and learn different cultures. Thanks for sharing this with us and keep posting more updates in your blog.

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 10:49:49 pm

Where is your favorite place to travel to?

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http://health.reviewship.com/ link
9/27/2013 03:40:45 pm

This wisdom can alter your beliefs of what’s precious and maybe you will no longer take the aspects of life which are most important for granted.

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 10:54:00 pm

Great comment! You said it perfectly!

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Ian Phillips
10/5/2013 12:25:51 pm

Simple things can go a long way. When I was having dinner in Osijek Croatia, I said molim {please in Croatian) to the waiter. He smiled as I guess he did not expect me to speak any Croatian. Remember where you are and respect that it is a different culture. Learning please, thank you etc shows you have some idea why you are traveling.

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:31:28 am

You are so right! Simple things do indeed go a long way.

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Erin link
10/31/2013 05:44:58 pm

This is my favorite post so far. :) " If you let yourself surrender and become lost in the place you’re visiting and shed all of your preconceived biases, judgements and worries; you then become vulnerable. " I'd say that's true about people as well. Was having a chat with some old HS friends on FB tonight and realized that none of us saw each other for who we really were back in HS. And I'd venture to say it's even the case now. More often than not, with places AND with people, we see what we want to see and not what actually is. Sad, really. I notice the moment I get vulnerable there is usually a pulling away except with the dearest of friends and family members. And even with them I have to temper my thoughts usually. This pulling away strikes panic in me, and then it's like...ok....better throw a joke in there to pull them back in - it works VERY well I must say. And joking around is fun, of course, and there's a place for that, but constant lack of vulnerability and truthfulness lessens the CONNECTION that is felt - to places and people. Are we born this way? Or are we taught this? To always pull away? I don't know...I just know that in my experience, getting vulnerable is a scary thing as the outcome is usually hurtful. It takes an enormous amount of trust and courage. And when I see people like you, who seem to do it so naturally, it astonishes me. I'm a bit jealous really. You have a gift. Many, actually. I'm sure you know that but I feel a need to tell you that for some reason. You seem to be a natural catalyst, or a better word might be alchemist. You take a place, a story, an insight, a person and you transform it/them from the mundane level to the spiritual level. You share so much of yourself with us through your posts and photography and that kind of vulnerability creates a connection with your readers. And you should understand and be aware of that power you have. I don't even *know* you but that connection in your writing makes me feel compelled to respond to you with that same kind of vulnerability myself - the kind of vulnerability I don't show the closest people in my life. Is it wise for me to do so? Not at all. And I seriously have to bite my tongue to NOT throw a joke in there in the end. But, I won't. Really. ;)

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Brandon Scott link
10/31/2013 07:09:26 pm

Thank you Erin, that was lovely. I appreciate your kind words, really <3 :)

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BenQ A3 GPS link
11/18/2013 11:21:07 am

When traveling, you get to meet new people and grow wiser. You become a better person and know more about yourself.

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 10:53:08 pm

You learn about everyone's story and it really opens you up. I love this part about traveling.

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Kenneth Noisette link
12/21/2013 04:21:07 pm

I definitely love to meet new people. That is definitely something that travel brings to the table instantly.

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Brando Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 10:52:05 pm

I firmly believe that everyone has a story to tell. I love being the ear that listens to those stories, especially when traveling. :)

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Kunbi link
1/28/2014 06:26:29 am

I absolutely agree with these 5 reasons....

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Brandon Elijah Scott link
2/11/2014 12:30:31 am

Thank you! Your support really warms my heart. I love to make a connection with my fellow readers. Please feel free to stop back at anytime! ::)

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Amy Lynne Hayes link
5/14/2014 11:14:50 am

These are exactly the reasons I travel!! Not all of them in all destinations, but for the culmination of my travels every one of these reasons has been put into play. Especially as I grow wiser (also known as older) and travel with more awareness. These experiences have given me more than I could have ever imagined when I first struck out across the ocean as a study abroad student, and I'm so thankful for the opportunities!

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deelip singh link
4/1/2017 12:19:19 am

Thanks for giving me top 5 really genuine regons to Travel, before read this blog I think travel Is not so important for us but trust me Now I will start travel and Express my life

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al hussine link
3/4/2019 09:06:18 am

Glad I enjoyed the post!
Thanks for sharing such an useful Information.

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