6 Travel Myths to Stop Believing Right Now
It’s no surprise that the desire for traveling is at an all time high. Statistics show that millennials intended to travel 35% more in 2017 than the previous year. This is a beautiful thing for our nomadic souls. So, what’s stopping us now?
There is doubt and there is fear for many people. Why is this? Unfortunately, there are a ton of people out there who have a negative connotation on travel who spread that thought to others. There are people who look at me like I have three heads when I tell them I’m leaving town for a long weekend to go out of town. There are some people who think it’s too dangerous, too expensive, and too unrealistic for a twenty-something to be adventuring out of our comfort zone. Let’s take a look at some of the most common travel myths debunked.
“Traveling is too expensive.”
I’m starting off with this one because it is so important that people know that this is not true in all cases. Sure, if you’re traveling to 5-star resorts, jumping on first class flights, and sipping on champagne every night - you’re going to pay the price. But there are countless destinations in breathtaking places with lighter options that will leave you feeling just as whole.
As I said before - Millennials are traveling at a rapid rate now more than ever before. This is a proven fact which shows you that it is possible to travel the world without breaking your budget. How is this possible? There are phenomenal companies out there curated just for budget travelers. Airbnb is one of my favorite examples. The site is full of amazing places to stay all over the country for less than $100 a night. Whether you are a solo traveler or plan on hitting the road with friends, there is truly an option for everyone. Use the button below to get your free $40 credit towards your next Airbnb booking.
When you think about how much you spend on a weekend out with friends, take a moment and think: what could I be doing with this money? A $60 dinner tab could pay for a week's worth of food from a bodega or an outdoor excursion overseas. Can you cut back in order to follow you travel dreams?
“Traveling doesn’t fit my schedule.”
I don’t care where you are, what you do, or what your schedule looks like: if you make taking a vacation a priority, you can and will make it happen! You don’t have to fly to a different country to escape and find beauty. One of my favorite things to do is to take a long weekend and turn it into a trip to Georgia. If I leave my little town in Brooksville, Florida, around 5 a.m., I can be in Georgia by the time the sun is rising. Sometimes it’s not about making a great distance to explore - it’s just about making it happen.
If you plan far enough in advance, most employers will give you requested time off. Do not let the corporate world stop you from chasing your dreams! In fact - don’t call it a dream, call it a plan. Start planning a trip today.
“Traveling is too dangerous.”
The world can be a scary place, but it can also be a very beautiful, welcoming one as well. There is much conflict going on in multiple parts of our world, but one thing is true: there are still amazing options to explore.
Some countries depend on tourism for the growth of their country. If you make it a must to use safe practices and do your homework on your destinations, traveling outside of your comfort zone is just that. If you are too nervous or afraid to leave your country, explore local options and options in those places you feel comfortable visiting. Regardless of where you travel, follow the rules and laws, read up on your destination, ask questions and take precautions.
It is important that we don’t let the fear of the unknown and myths like this one stop us from exploring. For centuries, we have overcome wars and obstacles. Peace was never found in timidness. It was found alongside taking chances and interacting with others with a mutually end goal.
“Traveling is unrealistic.”
This day in age, we never really “stop.” Most people have become equipped to the fast life. Work, school, sleep, repeat. So many people dream of hitting the road or hopping a plane, but never make it happen because they are so set in their ways.
Traveling is not unrealistic. In fact, it is something that naturally makes sense. We are not meant to pay bills and die. We are not meant to just work a 9-5 and sleep and do it all again day after day. We are meant for more. This is a message I try and teach everyone I meet. There are so many people who tell me, “I would love to do what you do, but it just isn’t realistic for me. It just doesn’t fit my lifestyle.” When I get a comment like that, it breaks my heart. Some of my best memories were made in the mountains on vacation. Those are the moments I live for. Those moments are my reality because I choose for them to be. I encourage you to do the same. Break the norm. If you take the time to plan and prioritize, you can make your travel dreams your reality!
Stop making excuses for following your travel dreams. These myths are just that - myths! There is so much more to life than living a 9 to 5. Follow back to this article when you are debating with yourself and take a look at what's really holding you back. Go forth, adventure, explore and create! More Detours, More Life. What have you learned on the road that is good advice for those who are skeptic about travel?
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