By Anna Ram~ Psychologist, Coach~ Integrative Counseling

The statement above holds true not only in our life’s  journey  where life transitions take place but also during our  traveling adventures. Traveling is full of moments of change: Leaving home, discovering new cultures, meeting interesting people, fulfilling a purpose or assignments…we are being transformed as a person.  Remember, each ending in your journey marks the start of something exciting, whether it’s exploring a new city, forming new friendships, accomplishing a purpose, and experiencing personal growth.

Experienced Travelers

Rick Steves, a well-known travel expert, says, “Travel is rich with learning opportunities.” I wholeheartedly believe this! Each conclusion we encounter, like wrapping up a visit to a new place, offers us fresh perspectives and inspiration. Travel expands our view of the world, inviting us to see things from different angles.

My dear daddy used to say, “Viajar es Vivir,” (To travel is to live.) This wisdom reminds us that if we remain at home all our lives, we miss out on the incredible experiences the world has to offer to our  right of mobility and personal growth. When we travel we acquire cultural intelligence.  Brooks Peterson in his guidebook to working with people of other cultures, defines Cultural intelligence as: “The ability to engage in a set of behaviors that uses skills (e.g., language and interpersonal skills), and qualities (tolerance for ambiguity, flexibility) that are tunned appropriately to the culture-based values and attitudes of the people with whom one interacts.” Cultural intelligence brings us to Linguistic Intelligence, to Spatial Intelligence, to Interpersonal Intelligence…to Multiple Intelligences.

I greatly enjoy watching CNN Richard Quest’s travel programs, where he imparts valuable tips and insights on the business world and traveling. His enthusiasm for life and adventure makes me think that his children had a lot of fun experiencing life with such enthusiastic dad. Richard emphasizes how important it is to explore new places and shares key ideas such as embracing adventure, discovering joy, connecting with cultures, being adaptable, and appreciating the thrill of the unexpected. I can almost hear his voice now, joyfully encouraging viewers to embrace each moment! When he talks is as is he wants to “eat the world.”

My husband and I also share a passion for traveling.  Together, we’ve visited 22 countries. We both appreciate the beauty of diverse cultures, and our assignments have given us a broader understanding of the world.

Adaptability

Before leaving home for our last trip, I received an inspiring message from a Chinese fortune cookie (yes, you hear me well. Cookies talk too if you pay attention.😉) I paid attention to its philosophical message: “Adaptability is not a Weakness. It is a sign of Strength.” This message resonated with me, as I was reminded of the possibility to face challenges during our travels and needed to stay flexible. I committed to embracing adaptability before leaving home, which made this trip one of our best experiences.

Adaptability  is this ability to adjust to new conditions, situations, or environments effectively. It involves being flexible, resilient, open-minded to change in response to various challenges and opportunities specially when connecting with people because develops critical thinking skills. All this is important to our survival and thriving, emotional well-being, to our innovation and growth. 

God’s Favor Before People

I am grateful that we were greatly favored with people in all things and places. The world has good people like you and me too, and this increases my faith in our humanity, as well. This time we visited an Islamic country, rich in culture. Every person had interesting stories, great hospitality, very kind people, and delicious healthy food.

Kind and no kind people exist everywhere… and all need to hear the Gospel of Christ, at least one time in their lifetime. This is why I have a ritual wherever I go. Once I set foot in one country, I pray a blessing for that country in my way in, and also in my way out. Always, there is a divine appointment.

What to Keep in Mind And Ready At Airports

For many, modern traveling has become an overwhelming experience, because it can be. Customs and immigration has changed policies around the world. There are airport and planes’ security concerns, the unfamiliar places, and the  rising costs to cover all expenses, the list can go on and on. But if you can afford to travel safely and simple, do it! This will give you a fresh insight into your present and your future life.

If you are afraid to travel or feel lazy to leave home or making any other excuse, I encourage you to remove your mindset’s limitations, whether they are self-imposed or imposed by others, especiallt the media. Remember that there is a time for everything under the sun. Finding the right time to travel is essential. Do not delay it or Procrastinate it but use good planning. Reunite with family, friends, and strangers when possible because life is short.  But before you go follow these instructions: “10 Customs & Immigration Questions at the Airport You Must Know.” (Use captions to translate content in your own language in the setting button.)

If you can embrace the ideas I presented above, your travel experience  will be filled with meaningful moments and fresh beginnings for your mental and spiritual health. Remember, in the journey of life, every ending is just the start of something new!

And believe this prayer as you say it: “The Lord will watch over my coming and going. Both now and forevermore.” Psalm 121:8

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