When I think about where to travel next, I think of this quote by Susan Sontag:
“I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list.”
I’m smiling now, just reading her words.
Here are a few protests I hear against travel:
- It’s too expensive.
- It’s too difficult to plan.
- I don’t have anyone to watch my kids.
- There’s plenty to see here.
To which my responses are:
- Travel doesn’t have to be super expensive. Yes, it costs money. But if you can afford to hit the amusement park and go out to dinner, it’s do-able.
- It’s not difficult. It can, however, be time consuming.
- Take your kids with you!
- Have you seen all of it?
I have a dear friend who has no interest in international travel, and I simply can’t get my mind around that idea. But even if you’re with her, travel doesn’t have to mean cafés in Europe or safaris in South Africa. It doesn’t even have to mean flying on a plane. Some of the most beautiful places in the world are right here in our country. If you’re willing to drive, you can find them.
I’ve written (too much?) about my perceived benefits of travel: travel with kids, without kids, travel as a kid. And I didn’t even mention the obvious: to relax and enjoy ourselves without the weight of our usual day-to-day responsibilities. And although relaxing is important, my experience is that it’s rarely the sole benefit of time in a new place.
There are so many different cultures and landscapes right here in our country, within each region, even, that I’m not sure we can ever experience all of them. But my biggest argument for trying is this: Compassion. Understanding. Grace. It’s a big world, filled with millions of people’s lives and thoughts and experiences. Imagine what it would be like if we all learned from each other.
I’m not sure if travel can change the world. But I know it can change your life.
Agree? Disagree? Why do you travel?
My thoughts exactly! Even with young kids it is possible – and wonderful. Though for long US trips I like trains better than cars. Trains are so kid-friendly with plenty of people to meet and long halls to walk up and down.
As far as money goes, my experience has been if you don’t have as much money, you need to spend more time. And vice versa, if you don’t have much time, you usually spend more money.
This from someone who’s traveled to Antarctica (pre-kids) and gone wilderness canoe camping in Canada (with toddler).
Agree! I also think family travel is such a great way to bond (to use a dopey word). You spend more time together, see and learn new things, take a break from chores and homework, and really create wonderful memories – even when things go wrong!
Heather – The train tip is excellent! And your point about time/money is well-taken. You’re so right–and I think that probably applies to more than just travel! Mostly, though, I’m completely impressed with this “wilderness canoe camping with a toddler.” That’s awesome!
Mayberry, I agree! Even if “bond” is dopey, you’re right. We’ve found that after a few days way from the routine, we all get an awful lot out of spending time away together. Hmmm…you’re making me want to plan a trip now…
Its super important! We take our kids all over the place stateside, Canada, and soon London. KIds need to know about the world outside their homes. My family did not have the means to take us on international trips but my husband and I are making a sincere effort to expose our kids to as much of the world as we can. They may not remember the first few trips but my camera can at least preserve those memories for them : ) Awesome post.
Veronica, I hear you! My family wasn’t taking international trips, either, when I was a child. But getting to know people in North Carolina, northern Virginia and New York? It was an exchange program right here at home. Your kids are lucky, both that they’ll be exposed to different people and places, but also that you value what that means. Safe travels!
Even young kids can remember a surprising amount. I was brought up with international travel and camping at a young age, and the sights and memories I have from a 5-6-year-old are working their way into novels I write now.
Yes, Kirsetin – I HIGHLY recommend canoe camping with little kids. It combines the ease of car camping (the canoe carries all the heavy stuff) with the thrill of backwoods wilderness camping. Time with lakes and lily pads is always good.
I 100%, whole-heartedly agree. Travel is a huge priority for us. Our 3-year-old has already been to Mexico, Maui and Europe and while I agree it is more challenging traveling with kids, it is so rewarding to broaden their minds.
This summer we are doing lots of camping with our girls and then headed on our first vacation sans kids.
Alecia – Your comment reminds me of something I read once: “I prefer to spend my money on experience rather than things.” Those words resonated with me and it sounds like you’d agree, too. It sounds like you have a fun summer ahead. Enjoy your first trip without kids–it’s such a good thing for any marriage, I think. But fair warning: The first time I left my little guy, I was SO ready for a break and couple time. And then every time I saw a mom nursing her little one my heart ached. Fifteen years later, I still miss the boys when we go away but re-connecting with my husband is totally worth it. Have fun! xoxo
I totally agree with you on this one. When we did not have much money when we were family with young kids we did many things that were close by. Little by little instead of buying new cars, replacing furniture and investing in “stuff” we starting putting travel with our kids as our priority. As of now we traveled all over US, RV-ed in Alaska, did couple cruises, made it to Machu Picchu, Galapagos, Kenya, Tanzania to name few big ones. Memories we had from every trip are amazing. Even at times when I wondered was it worth it taking a kid to seem uninterested at time I get surprised couple years later when I read their essays about certain trip. Our kids were always part of planning process and our adventures were always adjusted to kids needs and interests as well. Those were the times when we were disconnected from our usual routines but we ate three meals together, re-connected as a family. Our horizons have widened, our minds have opened up to new things. Was it challenging at times? Of course it was! Was it worth it? Absolutely! Every penny of it! Those experiences are priceless and as a mother of 20, 17 and 16 year old I feel so connected to my kids even at this stage of their life. I am very proud of it and I know our travels are big part or our relationships. No doubt in my mind!
P.S.Excuse my language mistakes, for those who don’t know me English is my second language.
Love to travel… haven’t been on a road trip in way too long… thanks for the kick in the pantses! 🙂