“Travel brings power and love back into your life.” ~ Rumi

I have travelled across the world - at all ages and for all reasons! There is something about travel that always stays with me - the experience and the memories.

2020 has been one of the years of least travel for me ! Looking back at my travel experiences, sharing some reflections on travel.

Travel comes in all shapes and sizes. That with family, friends or alone. Those you do for lack of choice or out of pure free will. Those that make you re-connect and those that compel you to disconnect. No matter what, travel always enriches life. You learn, discover something about yourself, people or places! That is precious

Any travel entails some level of planning, some amount of preparation, some level of participation and a good measure of being present. All great life skills which only get better with practice.

There is no right way to travel. If it works for you, it is OK. So, the more you travel - better for you. As you grow and evolve!

One of the best parts about travel is that it provides a break from the monotony of everyday life and routine. When you are physically in a different space, that can be a wonderful experience. Just imagine what all changes when you travel - new walls, paints, curtains, crockery, colors, sights, sounds, people, activities, routine! That can be incredibly energizing , rewarding and satisfying.

Travel can be powerful as it can open your mind to possibilities. Just in terms of what can be and what cannot be ! Simple things like how others live, what they do, what they eat, their outlook to life, their motivators... just that you need to be open to observe, connect and converse.

Whenever I travel, I like to take a morning walk to see the sunrise. The sights, smells and sounds of each place early morning is distinct. On one of my trips to San Francisco, USA last year, I was out for a morning walk in a park. I happened to spot a group of old retired army officers huddled in a very intense activity. As I got closer, I realized that they were all flying drones :) These were really sophisticated pieces of technology, and the group was indulging in serious competition! As I got talking to them, I learnt that they met every morning of the week for 3 hours to fly drones. They had a calendar of regular competitions, and the winner hosted a party every month. Apart from getting to know their life stories (both personal and professional), I took away many life lessons from my interactions with the group.

One - No matter what age , you need to have at least one thing to look forward to when you up every morning . Two - As you age and grow, friends and fun are important to keep you healthy and going. Three - Morning hours are the best time of the day.

What does travel mean to you? Do you have travel memories that are dear to you? What stories come to mind when you think of your last travel?