Each time we start planning a trip we are looking to spend more and more time away from home.  In fact,  we are actually looking into turning into expats for a month or two in each place we visit rather than being ‘tourists’. 

This,  however,  clashes with our friends’ idea of traveling,  which is four nights in a big city and a return flight on New Year’s or a short weekend in a big city cramming in the impossible ‘everything’. Of course this only means we are running out of travel companions.  We are quite ‘weird’ … or a so it seems. 

Right now we have three  places in mind for a two or three months expat spree next year.  We are calculating costs and planning.  And we are excited. 

But this also made me ask myself why we travel. Some people travel to escape, others to find themselves. And us…we travel:

1. To discover

Waking down a tiny alley in an old city means that we will find a nice vista,  a tiny restaurant or a souvenir  shop.  Or we might just meet a cute cat.  But either way,  we will have a ton of fun. 

Going off the well beaten path is not only fun but also a requirement for anyone who has ever traveled independently.  For the rest,  there are the guided torus.

Ideally we would gladly explore places where the menu is not in English and there aren’t any tourist maps available.

2. To learn

How do you best learn a language?  By talking with the natives,  of course.  And please stop saying that everyone should speak English. No,  they should not. You should have the courtesy to learn some basic local language.

Likewise when you are interested in a new culture.  All you need to do is open your eyes when you travel. Ask questions.  Pick up a magazine in the local language. 

3. To grow

New experiences are what we are after and they allow us to grow.  As individuals and as a couple.  Each plane ride,  each train trip… Every person you meet along the way will help you grow.

The more you slow down to take in the vibe,  the more you will grow and learn to appreciate life. 

4. To share

One of the reasons I keep the blog is to share what we do and how we manage to travel.  Maybe someone will benefit from our experience.  Plus it may add well be one of  the things we leave behind.

Photo by Alex P.