Common misconceptions about travel

Common misconceptions about travel

 

Many people avoid traveling their entire lives just because of what they the ink they know about it. However, much of what we know when it comes to travel (especially those of us who do not have first hand experience with it) all comes from hearing stories from other people, taking the bad bits and listening to advice we really shouldn’t. Here are some of the most common misconceptions when it comes to travel that tend to keep many people from experiencing the wonders of travel (adapted from HuffPost Blog):

 

"I don't have enough money to travel."

 

There are plenty of resources, grants, contests and scholarships available to students, post-grads and professionals throughout the world. There are also opportunities to volunteer or work abroad, which can both greatly reduce or completely cover the costs of travel and accommodation. Studying abroad is also an option for college students, and there are many scholarships and funding options available for these programs as well. Travel does not have to be costly!

 

"I have better things to spend my money on."

 

This may be true, depending on the person. But you do not necessarily have to attach any physical value to something in order for it to be worth the money! Travelling will undoubtedly make an impact on your life, and the people you meet, the experiences you have and the things you learn are surely worth more than anything you could buy in a store. If you want to make an investment in your personal well-being, your education and your future, travel is certainly one of the best things money can buy.

 

"I've seen the movie Taken; it's unsafe to travel abroad."

 

As long as you are alert, you will be fine. Many people who travel go through new hardships, because, well, you’re going to a new place, and bad things to happen. However, if you’re willing to learn from your mistakes, and take advice from people who know what they’re taking about, you should be safe enough in any new country. Also, it wouldn’t hurt to have Liam nelson’s phone number on speed dial…just in case…

 

"Traveling alone is terrifying, or I don't have anyone to travel with."

 

Traveling alone is not as scary as people often think. There are plenty of people in every place who are happy to help and get to know travelers. You'll make friends and you'll probably learn a thing or two about yourself along the way. Just make sure to keep an open mind and be friendly, show your support and let people know that you’re interested in learning about their culture. Also, many travel destinations are filled with people who, just like yourself, think that they don't have anyone to travel with, so meet few of them and band together!

 

"I've never been abroad."

 

All the better that you consider going! It may seem intimidating to travel internationally (or even locally!) for the first time, but it's actually a lot easier than you think. There are many misconceptions about going abroad that are often untrue, but thinking that you shouldn’t go on a trip simply because you’ve never been before is incredibly easy to solve…just go! Your experience and your willingness to do new things will prove very useful to you in future, and you might even find that you’ll be trying to convince others to join you on your next one.

 

"I don't have the time to travel."

 

Traveling does not need to last for months or even weeks. It does not need to consist of a trip across the ocean or to another continent. A trip to another city for a weekend may be just as valuable as a trip across the country. Learning about a new place doesn't mean that you have to spend a lot of time and money doing so! There are even ways to be a traveler in your own city by exploring the areas you're unfamiliar with or going to cultural events. There are many ways to be a traveler that don't have to take up a lot of time. You just need to find them.

 

"I need to be doing something that will show up on my resume."

 

First of all, if you keep a blog during your travels, it looks very impressive when you talk about starting your own travel blog on a resume. It shows initiative and passion. Also, it can open up many opportunities, including volunteer service, international programs, etc. that look fantastic on resumes and add a unique touch. Basically, you can put traveling on your resume, you just have to explain how your travels gave you relevant experience for the working world.

 

"I don't know where to begin."

 

Not knowing where to start is probably the easiest problem to overcome. Talk with someone you know who has been abroad before and have them walk you through the process. There are plenty of resources, web sites and people out there who are more than happy to help you plan your first trip. After that, the rest is easy!