Travel has the power to transform us, to open our minds and hearts to new experiences and perspectives. For me, there have been three trips that stand out as particularly transformative, each leaving an indelible mark on my soul.
The first was in 1998, just after finishing my mandatory military service and entering the world of IT. I was skeptical of travel, seeing it as a frivolous expense. But when a high school friend invited me on a 20-day road trip through California, I couldn't resist.
We landed in San Francisco with just our first night booked, eager to explore this iconic city. From the steep streets of Chinatown to the panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, we soaked up every moment. And then, it was time to hit the road.
We rented a minivan with an automatic transmission, a novelty for us Europeans at the time, and set off on a winding journey through the Sierra Nevada mountains. Our first stop was Yosemite National Park, where we hiked among towering sequoias and gazed up at thundering waterfalls.
Next up was Las Vegas, where we tried our luck in a few casinos and marveled at the glitzy spectacle of the Strip. But our trip wasn't all about man-made marvels. We also visited the breathtaking Grand Canyon, with one of the most beautiful sunrises of my life, where we stood in awe at the sheer size and beauty of this natural wonder.
Our last stop was Los Angeles, where we spent a day at Universal Studios, marveling at the magic of movie-making and indulging in some theme park fun. At night, we strolled along the Santa Monica Pier, taking in the sights and sounds of this bustling seaside destination.
Finally, we hung out on Venice Beach, watching street performers and soaking up the bohemian vibe. Looking back on that trip, I realize now how much it changed me. It was the start of a lifelong love affair with travel and adventure, and it taught me that sometimes the most memorable experiences are the ones you never planned for.
A decade later, on the verge of burnout, I decided to take a solo trip to Japan. Armed with a rail pass and a sense of adventure, I journeyed from Tokyo to Osaka, immersing myself in the country's unique culture and stunning natural beauty.
From the tranquil temples of Nikko to the bustling streets of Kyoto, it was a month of total transformation. I returned home a different person, with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the world.
You can read more about this trip here:
Japan: ⛩️🌸 A trip like no other
And finally, in 2019, I returned to Japan with my wife and sisters. It was a magical trip, full of surprises and discoveries. But more than that, it was a chance to share my love of travel and adventure with the people I care about most.
You can read more about this trip on my Blurt Blog @ten-years-before
Looking back on these three trips, I realize that they all taught me something different. The first showed me the joy of spontaneity and the thrill of exploration. The second taught me the value of solo travel and the power of cultural immersion. And the third reminded me that the greatest joys in life are those we share with others.
So if you're thinking of taking a trip, don't hesitate. The world is waiting, and you never know how it might change you.
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A game changer
Yep 👍