For the traveler, there’s nothing quite like seeing the world firsthand. Whether you’re hitting the road for business or pleasure, packing your bags and hitting the open road is bound to make you a better person in some way. Sure, some of it may be physical—exercising and eating right are two great examples. But there are also plenty of intangible benefits to traveling that will make you a better person. Here are five things to do when you travel that will make you a better person.
Get Out and Explore
When it comes to travel, there are few things as rewarding as discovering new places and experiencing the sights and sounds of a new culture firsthand. But even if you don’t have the time or money to take an extended trip, there are plenty of great ways to explore your hometown or city without leaving your comfort zone. Here are five ideas for getting out and exploring:
1. Take a walking tour: If you’re not familiar with your city’s landmarks, a walking tour can be a great way to learn about them while getting some exercise at the same time. Many tour operators offer both private and group tours, so be sure to pick one that fits your schedule and interests.
2. Check out local museums: Museums aren’t just for ancient civilizations anymore—many have rotating exhibits that showcase the latest in art, fashion, and design. If you’re on a budget, consider visiting free museums during off-hours or on weekends; alternatively, consider shelling out for an all-day pass if you have more time (or money).
Talk to people
1. Talk to people. When you’re on vacation, it’s easy to focus on the sights and sounds around you. But spending time with locals can give you a unique perspective on the country and make for some great stories back home. Plus, if someone shows you around town or takes you for a meal, they’ll definitely be appreciated – and likely to do the same for your return visits.
2. Take photographs. Sure, there are plenty of places in the world where snapping photos is frowned upon – but there’s no harm in trying out a few shots while you’re on vacation anyway! Not only will you have memories of your trip that you can share with friends and family, but your pics may just end up being used as tour guides when you go back again someday.
3. Explore the local culture. Whether it’s going to traditional music concerts or learning about a different religion during your travels, getting to know the culture of the area can be fascinating (and fun). And even if you don’t end up converting to their way of life, at least you’ll have some great stories to tell when you get home!
Volunteer
Volunteering is a great way to learn about different cultures and make new friends. There are many opportunities for volunteers abroad, from working with children in orphanages to teaching English in schools. Here are five things to do when you’re traveling that will make you a better person:
1. Volunteer at an animal shelter or rescue center.
This is an easy way to help out without leaving home. Many animal shelters and rescue centers need volunteers to help with everything from walking dogs to feeding cats and caring for the animals. You’ll get to know the animals and learn about how they’re cared for, which is sure to make you a more compassionate person.
2. Help out at a hospice or nursing home.
Many hospices and nursing homes need unpaid volunteers to do everything from providing emotional support to cleaning up after patients. This can be a great way to meet people who are facing difficult circumstances and learn something new while doing something good for others.
3. Teach English as a second language (ESL).
Teaching ESL can be a rewarding experience both professionally and socially. If you have teaching experience or are willing to undergo rigorous training, there are many opportunities available overseas as an ESL teacher. Not only will you get the chance to teach other foreigners, but you’ll also gain valuable skills that will help you in any career path you choose.
Explore new places
1. Take time to explore new places. When you travel, be sure to get out of your comfort zone and explore new parts of the world. This will not only make you a more cultured person, but also give you a better understanding of different cultures and how they operate.
2. Make friends with locals. When you’re traveling, it’s important to make friends with the locals. This way, you’ll learn about their culture and what makes their lives unique. Not only will this be fun, but it will also help you avoid any potential scams or problems that could occur while traveling.
3. Be open-minded about your surroundings. Just because someone tells you something is a must-see location doesn’t mean that you have to agree with them – go ahead and explore something new! You might be pleasantly surprised at the beauty that surrounds you – after all, there’s no harm in trying something new!
Spend time with loved ones
Spending time with loved ones is one of the best ways to enjoy your travel. When you’re able to spend quality time with those you care about, it can make your trip that much more special. Here are a few things to do when you travel that will make you a better person:
1. Go on a picnic with your friends or family. This can be one of the most fun and relaxing activities you can do while traveling. prep everything ahead of time by packing your favorite foods and drinks, and setting up a blanket or chair in a good spot. Afterward, just relax and enjoy the company of those you love.
2. Go for a hike or bike ride in your destination city or countryside. Not only will exercise help to make you feel refreshed, but it’s also great way to explore new neighborhoods, sights, and sounds. And if there’s no hiking or biking available in your destination, take a drive out into the country for some scenic views.
Make New Friends
Some of the best things to do when you travel are to make new friends. Here are some tips on how to make friends while traveling:
1. Find a local Couchsurfing group or meetup. Couchsurfing is a great way to meet locals and also get introduced to other travelers in your area. There are numerous Couchsurfing groups all over the world, so it’s easy to find one that suits your interests.
2. Join an online community for backpackers or travelers. There are many online communities specifically for backpackers and travelers that can help you connect with others who are traveling the same route as you. These communities can be an invaluable resource for finding hostels, getting advice on budgeting, and finding good restaurants and sights to see.
3. Join a free social networking site like TripAdvisor or Facebook for travelers. These sites allow you to connect with other travelers in your area, share photos and reviews of your travels, and find recommendations for places to stay, eat, and visit.
