Have you ever traveled abroad? Traveling for business can be stressful, but taking a break for a vacation is enjoyable. Traveling the world isn’t just fun and exciting but highly beneficial for your mental, emotional, and physical health. There are many different ways to travel, and each has its benefits.
- Air travel is fast, convenient, and often the cheapest for long distances.
- Train travel offers a unique landscape view as it moves through the countryside, mountains, or forests.
- Cruise ships offer luxurious accommodations with plenty of food options while sailing around destinations you can’t reach by any other means of transportation.
- Bus tours are an affordable way to see many destinations in one trip without worrying about packing or navigating unfamiliar roads.
- Bicycling is cheap, Eco-friendly, and won’t be judged for not having a car.
- RV travel is a great way to explore the U.S. while driving
A study shows that Americans may say they like to travel, but most barely go abroad. Compared to Europeans, they’re half as likely to visit more than one country in a year. Internationally, travelers in England have seen an average of 10 countries, Germans 8, and the French 5. On the other hand, Americans visit only 3. Roughly 29% of Americans have never set foot outside their country.
Many Americans are reluctant to explore the world past the U.S. borders; most visit Canada or Mexico. About 71% of Americans think it’s too expensive, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth an adventure. There are many benefits to international travel that most Americans might not be aware of. With all the deals and options the internet offers, it’s easier than ever to make traveling abroad a reality. Here are some of the health benefits of traveling abroad that have been explored and verified by scientists
Advantages of Traveling Abroad
1. Improves Health
A joint survey of the U.S. Travel Association and the Global Commission on Aging and Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies found that travel makes you healthier. This study showed that women who travel at least twice per year have a lower risk of heart attack than those who go on vacations after some years. Vacations are essential for all, not just women. Men who do travel have a higher risk of mortality and heart disease.
2. Relieves Stress
Traveling reduces stress despite occasional inconveniences such as losing luggage on a flight. Ultimately, the benefits of taking a vacation are vast and can make you feel less anxious, relaxed, and in a better mood. One study showed that these feelings could last for weeks after the trip.
3. Improves Creativity
Adam Galinsky, a professor at Columbia Business School and a leading researcher in the field of creativity, says there are benefits to undertaking international travel. He noted that visiting foreign countries increases the creativity and interactivity of one’s thoughts. Appreciating various cultures and ways of life increases cognitive flexibility.
Traveling alone isn’t enough. However, Galinsky found that international travelers must try and come into contact with other cultures. When trying to bridge the cultural gap, people should immerse themselves in every culture they visit. Doing so will help them understand and appreciate the culture better.
4. Boosts Happiness and Satisfaction
Some people report being happier when they’re traveling rather than at work. A study from Cornell University suggests that some people experience increased happiness just from planning to go away. Traveling abroad is proven to be more exciting than acquiring a new possession. The benefits of traveling are experienced even before the trip begins.
5. Reduces the Risk of Depression
Depression is a common mental disorder in our society. It affects millions of Americans- many of whom are misdiagnosed with and prescribed medication for it. Luckily, healthier alternatives prevent the hopelessness of a depressed state. Research suggests that travel is one of them. A study of women at the Marshfield Clinic showed that those who go on two vacations per year are less likely to suffer chronic stress and depression than those who vacation once every two years.
Where will you go?
There are many destinations worth visiting across the world. For the best experience, consider the following:
1. Lucerne, Switzerland
If it’s your first time in Switzerland, Lucerne is one of the most tourist-friendly towns. It’s also conveniently located close to Zurich airport and is a relatively small yet charming city. There are many attractions within the city and near its borders. There are various hiking trails.
2. London, England
London is a must-visit. It’s a great spot to get your feet wet if you’re new to international travel. London is an incredible city with tons to do. You don’t have to worry about language barriers since they speak English fluently.
3. Auckland, New Zealand
You can abseil down a waterfall or kayak up a volcano, bike ride to the top of a mountain, or swim with sharks. And if you get tired? Auckland also has fantastic food and entertainment in the city that will keep things fresh!
4. Cape Town, South Africa
One of the best photos I ever took was of Cape Town’s heart-stopping rugged beauty. It also offers an array of exciting wildlife, including the Big Five. There’s a lot to do and see in the region. You can either take things slow and easy or fast-paced. Each traveler will find something they enjoy: meerkat tours, luxury safaris, eco-adventures, or a range of cultural excursions.
The idea of international travel used to be a mystery and thrilling experience, and it’s still for many. There are many other options to enjoy with less effort. With Google Earth, YouTube and VR, most people think they’ve seen all that the world has to offer only from a few inches in front of their screens.
Traveling and exploring different cities is always a great way to grow and develop as a person. Visiting one of the major global destinations or somewhere completely new will impact you in many ways. People travel for many reasons, but they mainly want to explore the world and get to know different cultures. Traveling is a great way to explore new places, meet new people, and experience different cultures.