Travel
The definition by Dictionary.com is:
verb (used without object), 1. to go from one place to another, as by car, train, plane, or ship; take a trip; journey:
So to travel is to take a trip or go on a journey. You’re traveling from place to place by multiple means, on an adventure.
When traveling, you’re going for the experience of the place you’re in. This means immersing yourself in the culture, living the way they would, and trying new things. This could mean trying street food, visiting museums, going to an authentic concert, and talking to the people. You might wander through alleyways, stray from the tourist area, and step into the lives of the people. I like to go into tiny shops, or a bakery, or restaurant, and talk to the owner.
One of the scariest things I did while traveling was take a local bus in Nepal from a small village back to Pokhara. The bus was going 100 miles an hour it felt like, on a windy one lane mountain road. Although it was scary, it was exhilarating and I am proud to say I did it. Travel encourages us to step out of our comfort zone and push our boundaries.
As a traveler you live cheaply. You need to do research, you need to read a few blogs and forums. You would use Hostels, Couchsurfing, Work Away, WWOOF, Helpx, and Skyscanner for dirt cheap tickets.
Spoiler alert, if you want to travel, go check out those links. Also most of these sites allow you to travel with your families. So no excuses about having kids. You can stay somewhere for free.
Travel is a life changing experience that shows you an enlightened view of reality.
Vacation
The definition by Dictionary.com is:
noun 1. a period of suspension of work, study, or other activity, usually used for rest, recreation, or travel; recess or holiday:
You’re taking a short period of time to rest by means of traveling.
When vacationing you’re in a place for a week or two usually at a resort or hotel. You spend your days sitting by a pool with a cocktail or beer in hand. You have an interest in learning about the culture, but having only a week or two sets limitations. Sometimes if you can’t get much time off this is the best option.
If you’re looking for a vacation you might use Groupon Getaways, Kayak, or Expedia. While these sites may get you a good deal, vacationing is still overall more expensive.
Vacationing is a short term break from “reality”.
In Conclusion
Travel is a life-changing, culture-enriching journey. I believe everyone should travel if they live in a developed country. Families are no excuse with the sites I included above. Vacations can be needed but shouldn’t be the only time to go international. Choose to live a life you don’t need a vacation from. Choose to live a “reality” you don’t need escape from. Choose to live a life you love.
