Why is it important to travel?

I love travelling, but it hasn't always been my passion. In my first year of university, I started to travel during the holidays. During the Christmas holiday I went to Paris, and during the spring vacation, I visited Athens and various cities in Italy – I was very excited because this was the first time I had travelled abroad with just my friends. This desire to travel started off simply as a way to have something to look forward to after exams, but I soon discovered how important it is to travel.

On my travels I have had the opportunity to not only experience new and vibrant cultures through the art, history, language and food, but I have also had the chance to interact with people who have different outlooks on life. Travelling is a learning experience for both oneself and also the people you encounter. Some people I met during my travels had never heard of the Gambia and it was very gratifying to share my African roots with them. When you travel you will meet people who have different cultural backgrounds and as a result, sometimes your own ideas and opinions might be challenged. It's important to learn to see things from other people's perspectives and to challenge your own preconceptions. 

This is how I realised that travelling is the realisation of home. When you travel you are exposed to a different setting, a different language and a different way of living. All these elements, mixed with a new and exciting adventure, make you realise your own home. Not just the physical location of home, but also your way of life and your outlook.

Travelling is truly an enriching experience and I am always excited for the discoveries that await me in my next adventure!

Discussion

Where have you travelled to? Do you like travelling? Why or why not? Where would you like to travel?