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Travel is an activity generally associated with vacation or work. We either travel in search of relaxation and fun or as a result of job requirements. Yet done with an open mind, travel is an activity that educates. There is perhaps no better way to become educated about the world's diverse cultures and people. Travel also provides a tangible sense of place. I have been amazed how my interest in world events has changed after visiting a country or region. Myanmar grabs my attention in the news today as if it were my home. Cambodia is an exotic and distant land to those who've never been; its challenges are difficult to comprehend absent knowledge of the country's history and culture. But for those who've visited - and made time to explore beyond the ancient temples of Angkor - the effects of imperialism and Khmer Rouge-era policies quickly become apparent. For the educational benefits of travel to be gained, the travel experience must be approached with a certain attitude. Travel itself should be the goal - and not a successful business deal or rejuvenating break on the beach. You can fit these in, but the general goal should be enlightenment via the travel experience. "The goal doesn't lie at the end of the road. The goal is the road." Nowhere does this already overused aphorism ring truer (in both literal and figurative senses) than when made in reference to travel. Travel with your primary objective being to experience the challenges and joys of exploration, and you'll be amazed at what you learn. Recent research suggests that just 20% of Americans possess passports. This is due in part to the country's size and geography. Most Americans don't need to travel outside the country to meet their basic needs. In other parts of the world, this isn't the case. European nations, for example, are not altogether unlike American states in size and proximity. Yet cross European national boundaries and (historically, at least) you encounter distinct cultures, languages, and people. If I could change one thing about higher education in America, it would be to require study in a foreign country for at least a semester or two. The "study abroad" experience is something an educated society ought to demand of its students. If we did this, our people would be better informed about world events and geography. Because America's decisions profoundly affect the rest of the world, we must become better educated about our neighbors and how our decisions impact their lives. Until I began to travel (particularly in "developing nations"), I failed to grasp how much influence America wields across the globe - not on a national level but rather on an individual level. Individuals across the globe are significantly impacted by American policies and government actions. Like reading, I believe an enlightened society embraces a culture of educational travel. Travel opens minds and expands horizons. In addition to educating the traveler, the experience can be of value for those with whom the traveler interacts. Travel humbly and responsibly. Not only will you find the people more friendly, but your actions will (if you're an American) chip away at the stereotype some foreigners maintain about travelers from the United States. Final thoughts: - See this summary of Vagabonding and read Rolf Potts' simple guide to the art of long-term world travel.
- Get off the beaten path. Generally the only people out there to swindle you are hanging out in the middle of that proverbial beaten path. Get any distance away from it, and the likelihood of extortion drops significantly. Be brave. I have to remind myself of this constantly on the road. Nine times out of ten, I end up thankful I've taken a difficult plunge.
- Travel humbly. Don't expect things to work the way they do at home. Do not go into the travel experience thinking your home country has everything right.
- Travel for longer periods of time. Vacations can be enjoyed in several days, but an educational travel experience - the exploration of another culture - requires more.
- Travel to give of yourself. Volunteer. Visit hospitals, orphanages, and other organizations working with those in need.
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