Get Away: Why You Need To Expand Your Horizons

Reconnect
I believe there are valuable, long-term results that come from going across the pond/border/continent. We read the paper and listen to the news differently. We picture the people in the villages, we feel the texture of the land, we taste the unique flavors of food, we think about the differences and similarities. It is difficult to return from Europe and not re-evaluate our desire for large cars and complaints around the price of gas. Visiting developing countries makes us question our quest for accumulating larger houses and material goods. Traveling with one suitcase or backpack refreshes our reality of what we really need. Experiencing long meals surrounded by friends and family as a daily occurrence brings about the pondering of independence and interdependence.

So, where to go? Here are a few tips and suggestions. Keep in mind these are my personal preferences and not for everyone.

What are you looking for? Classic adventure or cutting-edge travel? I classify destinations into these three categories. Think about what you are looking for before you choose a destination.

• Classic: Italy, Ireland, Australia, etc. (well-known, must-see destinations, and easy to travel within)
• Adventure: Patagonia, Himalayas, Inca Trail, Kilimanjaro (remote, more physically demanding, uncertain weather and transportation).
• Cutting edge: Slovenia, Croatia, Bulgaria, Laos (just off the radar for most people)