Why travel is important?

Why Travel is Important – A Personal Perspective by Anant Toshniwal

Travel is more than just moving from one place to another – it’s an adventure that teaches you lessons that no classroom ever can. My journey as a traveler, from bustling Indian streets to the serene corners of Western Europe, has been filled with ups and downs. There were times when I stood mesmerized by the beauty of tall skyscrapers and other times when I was left battling my way through tough situations. But the one thing I’ve learned from all my travels is this: Life is a rollercoaster, and there’s no thrill without a few twists and turns!

Broadens Your Horizon

Growing up in India, I had my first taste of the world through the local trains and crowded streets. But my perspective truly broadened when I stepped out of the country for the first time, visiting Canada. It was a world of difference—the cold breeze, the towering buildings, and the luxury cars cruising by. It was fascinating to see how different life could be across borders. Travel has taught me that the world is much bigger than the little bubble we live in, and every new destination holds a new story. It pushes me to challenge my preconceptions and be more open to the endless possibilities of life.

Teaches You Resilience

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned through travel is resilience. There are moments when things don’t go as planned. Take my camping experience in Nainital, for example. Picture this: waking up in the middle of the night, freezing cold, my head throbbing, my sleeping bag torn (thanks to a mischievous kid swapping it), wet socks, and the overwhelming urge to use a toilet 700 meters downhill in pitch darkness. My legs were still aching from the day’s trek, and the situation seemed unbearable. But it taught me how to hold myself together in moments of discomfort and challenge. Not every experience is going to be glamorous, but these are the ones that shape you.

The Beauty of Connection

Travel is also about connection—both with people and places. One of the things I cherish most is the conversations I’ve had with locals, whether it’s on a bustling street in India or in a quiet café in Europe. Those little exchanges of warmth and smiles remind me that despite the vast differences, there’s a universal bond that connects us all. The more I travel, the more I understand that kindness and empathy transcend language and borders. These moments have made me more compassionate and open-minded.

Breaks the Routine

Travel has been my escape from the monotony of everyday life. There’s something exhilarating about leaving behind the routine and stepping into the unknown. It could be waking up to the sound of birds in a remote village or watching the sun set over a bustling cityscape – each trip adds a dash of excitement to life. And while it’s not always smooth, the unpredictable moments are what keep things interesting. Whether it’s getting lost in the streets of a new city or braving unexpected weather, these experiences remind me to live in the moment and embrace the uncertainty.

Builds Confidence and Independence

Travel has made me independent in ways I never imagined. From navigating foreign cities where I didn’t speak the language to figuring out how to deal with sudden problems, I’ve learned to rely on myself. These experiences have made me more confident in my ability to handle challenges and think on my feet. They’ve shown me that even in the worst of situations, like my nightmarish camping in Nainital, I can pull through. Each trip teaches me something new, and these lessons build my character, making me more adaptable and resilient.

Conclusion

Travel, for me, is not just about visiting new places—it’s about discovering parts of myself I never knew existed. From Canada’s skyscrapers to the rugged hills of Nainital, every trip has been a lesson in resilience, compassion, and growth. It has taught me to embrace the good and the bad, to cherish the connections I make, and to constantly push my boundaries.

So, if you’re ever hesitating to take that trip, I urge you to go. Because, trust me, travel isn’t just about what you see—it’s about who you become along the way.

Happy travels,
Anant Toshniwal