Intangible Souvenirs: 5 Things My Travels Taught Me

1. Sensitivity to global issues

When I started travelling, I became more aware and curious about what was happening with other nations. I always found myself doing a bit of reading, especially in the countries I was planning to travel. I also became tolerant and open-minded to others’ views and opinions. One example is when I went to Russia. I always thought Russians were grumpy in general, and that Russia was a country that’s always gloomy and unsafe. It turned out to be the exact opposite.

Also read: 10 Things I Learned from 10 Years of Travelling

2. Travel doesn’t have to be expensive

When people think of travelling, they equate it to flights outside the country. But it’s NOT. You can explore your own town and country, and it’ll surprise you with amazing places that you didn’t even know existed! I’m a proud Pinay and have been a big fan of my island, GUIMARAS ISLAND. I always look forward to coming home and sharing the wonderful places my island has to offer.

3. I learned the value of money

Coming from a middle-class family, making money wasn’t that easy. Before saving money for my travel funds, I needed to finish my monthly obligations first, especially to my family back home. Whatever was left of my money went to my savings. I always tell myself that I need to stick to my budget every time I travel because that money comes from doing straight and extra shifts in the hospital. And by the way, I don’t have any credit cards! The main reason? I HATE debts, which I think is a good thing.

4. The people you meet can change your life

I met a lot of people from 33 different countries. Not all, but some of them, played a big part on how I look and live my life now. For instance, when I went to Nepal last 2014, I met a Buddhist Monk named Brother Nawang inside Boudhanath. He prayed for me instantly after he asked for my name. To my surprise, he didn’t ask what my religion was and what country I came from!

In Bhaktapur, the locals still live as if we were still in the 1950’s. They don’t mind if other countries are modern, but I can see how happy they were and how simple living made them appreciate life even more. That trip was so unforgettable to the point that when I went back to Dubai, all the shimmering buildings and material things didn’t matter to me. I realized that happiness is a matter of perspective.

5. You cannot put a price tag on good and bad memories

I had the wrong idea before. When I thought of people who travel, I thought they were just wasting their money. But now, from my experience, investing in memories through travelling is way better than investing in new gadgets. I always find myself reminiscing on each of my trips, and just thinking of them makes me want to time travel and relive those moments.

The things I learned in my travels educated me in ways my school could not. My trips weren’t all that perfect and dreamy, but it shaped me into who I am today. For me, travel is indeed life’s best teacher.

Also read: What Reading Local Travel Blogs Taught Me