On the edge of adventure
I’ve been asked several times why I’m planning to travel around the world; what’s a good reason to travel? Everyone has a different reason to travel. Some of many, some have few. Some have no reason at all. There’s no single reason why I should travel, so here’s my best list:
1. To get inspired.
As a graphic designer, I’m always thinking creatively. As a person, I’m always interested in understanding and seeing new things. Lots of people travel the world on a budget to “find themselves” or gain some higher truth about their being. Sure, that’d be nice. But I’m really just looking forward to discovering inspiring stories, histories, cultures & art.
2. To prove to myself that I can do it.
If I can do this, I can do anything. Maybe it’s a dangerous philosophy (and I don’t doubt that I can do it), but I’d like to come out of this RTW trip with the affirmation & knowledge that anything is possible.
3. To see and experience different cultures.
I’ve always been a reader. And sometimes a dreamer. Now I’d like to be a do-er.
4. To eat.
Food’s important. A boy’s gotta eat, right? I’ve always been a believer in experiencing the culture of a place through its food. That’s why supermarkets and grocery stores will be a stopping point as I travel around the world.
5. To meet new and interesting people.
Something I’ve figured out recently is the value of talking to strangers. Everyone’s got a story and who’s to say it’s one not worth listening to? It’s also a great way to meet like-minded individuals such as all the other travel writers & travel bloggers out there on their own big trips.
Are you planning to travel around the world? Read my summary post after I traveled around the world with $20,000 for over 15 months: How far will $20,000 take you?
Blogs published by Adam Groffman • Please note some posts do make me some money, but I never sacrifice my integrity in exchange for a favorable review. Read the full disclosure policy.
John the Traveller
28 June 2011
travel for all those reasons that you’ve mentioned and most importantly, to enjoy life!
Istria
27 May 2011
For me its 3 and 4.
Connie Hum
16 March 2011
All great reasons! #4 is definitely my favorite reason! =)
Mel
15 March 2011
You are truly inspiring Adam! If you have any advice on Mexico please let me know as I am heading off there in one month on a solo mission!
http://www.meltravelled.com.au
-M-
Adam
14 July 2010
Shopping is a great reason to travel! But it can get expensive, yeah?
Janice
12 July 2010
Since you've pretty much summed it all up, then mine is an excuse for shopping (http://siemreap.info/shopping/). I want to see what the other parts of the world has to offer. Just the thinking of our diverse cultures and tastes makes me very excited.
Adam
26 June 2010
Hi Deirdre! Thanks so much for getting in touch. I'll definitely contact you once I get to Cambodia. Cheers!
Deirdre
24 June 2010
We are very part time neighbors of your relative, Ann P, in Middletown. Most of the time we live in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Contact us if you're passing through there (we have a prospective BU student in our house, too):
Adam
7 February 2010
SE Asia seems like a great place to stay & work on your dreams—whether writing a book or starting an Internet business.
unbjames
7 February 2010
I'm gearing up for my trip to SE Asia to sample the end lifestyle (long-term travel when I desire it) I want as I begin to plan my internet business over this year.
Adam
7 February 2010
Thanks, Mark.
Most of the time when people ask why I want to travel, I just say something along those lines, but for more pesky folks it's nice to have a clearly defined, point-by-point list!
Mark H
6 February 2010
I think your reasons capture travel well. In my humble opinion, it is all about broadening your horizons and your reasons say that well.
Adam
3 February 2010
I'm with you – “you don't need a reason to go traveling” but it helps to lay 'em out just in case.
BikeHike Adventures
2 February 2010
You don't need a reason to go traveling. But, these are good reasons.
I particularly like #4. ;)
Adam
2 February 2010
Eating is important. And delicious.
Anil
1 February 2010
#4 is one of my favorite :)
Adam
30 January 2010
I could've written hundreds of reasons, but sometimes you really don't need a defined reason to just go and do something. It helps convince others that what you're doing is okay, though.
AirTreks Nico
29 January 2010
Excellent reasons, and there's so many more that come under the “well, obviously” category. I couldn't help but write one of these great lists too, but I put 17 reasons down (went a little overboard). Have fun out there, Adam.
http://news.airtreks.com/post/2009/10/why-trave…
Adam
28 January 2010
What? You don't like to eat?!
Just kdding. Also, I've never seen a crazy old backpacker lady. That would make for an interesting blog no doubt!
nancythegnomette
28 January 2010
Awesome reasons. I think #1 and #3 are my top reasons. I hope to never stop traveling. I want to be a crazy old backpacker lady pushing her walker down the streets of Ulaanbaatar. lol
Adam
28 January 2010
Yeah, I'm a little worried about becoming addicted to travel. I've only got so many funds! Plus, there's lots of things to still see and do here in the US.
Adam
28 January 2010
Sounds amazing! I hope my travels will provide me with as many exciting opportunities & adventures.
Adam
28 January 2010
Thanks Doug! I could probably come up with another 100 reasons why it's a good idea to travel.
Joya
27 January 2010
I agree with every single reason. I found a career I love because I went to go live work abroad in London, love trying new foods and now have friends from all around the world, including one from Australia who is coming to visit me this week.
Doug
27 January 2010
Very cool, Adam. All equally great points, in fact one doesnt out weigh the other! Looking forward to following your RTW trip.
Expat Mom
27 January 2010
Excellent reasons to travel. My big one when I left Canada was to prove to myself and everyone else that I could do it! I think people had bets out on how long before I came running home, tail between my legs. ;)
You're going to have so many awesome experiences and it really will change the way you see the world and the people in it. Travel is addicting, though!
Adam
27 January 2010
So true! Though I think that's less likely to convince my parents I'm doing the right thing.
Abbie
27 January 2010
Reason #6 – Why not????
I find it funny that so many people ask me why I'm traveling somewhere, as if it's not enough to just want to go :)
Adam
26 January 2010
Punching is an important part of any conversation I have where someone tries to tell me something I can't do. And a kick to the shin. Or a headbutt.
Candice
26 January 2010
#2 is my favorite. Whenever anybody says I can't travel for life, I feel compelled to prove them wrong. And then punch them.
Adam
26 January 2010
haha calm down little monkey. You're all good in my book.
Cornelius Aesop
26 January 2010
Sweet, I don't even want to think of such evils in the world. You humans eat each other, you are vicious savage cannibals. Yet if you eat a monkey you are eating some culinary delicacy? I still say savage monsters they don't count as #5
Adam
26 January 2010
Yeah food always makes for an interesting experience. One thing I can almost categorically state I will NOT eat would be monkey brains. So you're safe!
Cornelius Aesop
25 January 2010
Great list, but I think4 is the best. I'll be interested to see what cultural culinary conquests you embark on during your travels.
Walter
25 January 2010
I wish I can have that option. Maybe in the future to come. :-)
Adam
25 January 2010
Thanks Keith. I'm definitely more than excited!
Adam
24 January 2010
I eat out all the time already (bad Adam!) but the excuse to do it now is definitely a good one!
Keith
24 January 2010
Sounds like very good reasons to me! You will be inspired, you will be able to do it (easy!), you will see the world through different eyes when you're done, the culinary experiences will be diverse & you will be meeting loads of people! All the best!
Cheers,
Keith
Stephanie
24 January 2010
Those are all fantastic reasons to travel! Meeting interesting people is one of my favorite things about traveling. And the excuse to eat out all the time. I'm sure you will not be dissapointed.