Posted on 2020-4-12 by AGF

travel – to go from one place to another, typically over a distance of some length

In March of 2000 I decided it was time for me to see Europe. I’d had enough of travel within the US and the beautiful beaches of the Caribbean bored me, it was time to cross the pond into the unknown and three months later I did just that. With my friend Michael by my side I never imagined two weeks visiting three different countries would change my life forever, but it did.

And in these twenty-five years this world continues to amaze me. I’ve seen it through different eyes and learn to appreciate different ways of life and cultures. To understand, listen to people that share the same ideals and ideas and always respecting one another when don’t agree and realize we are more alike than we ever thought. From the richest to the poorest country, we see stereotypes and beliefs shattered and the countries you that thought you wouldn’t like are the ones you end up loving. And places you thought you’d never make friends will be among your best friends.

Travel cuts through, clarifies and it defines so much of this world.  It will make you laugh and cry and even anger you.  It will show all the beauty in this world and at times the ugly.  It allows you to appreciate and envy in a single moment, to see this world through a different telescope in a land far from home.  It forces you to understand and appreciate a different culture.  To experience a different way of life so different and familiar as your own at the same time in a land your language is not the native.  But above all else, if you allow it, travel will change you.