Encouragement for Others

Your future isn't promised, so take advantage of the time you have now. Don't wait for retirement when you think you'll have more free time or money. Work hard to be able to travel now and gain those experiences.
Enjoy your youth and get out there! Meet new people, try new foods, learn about different cultures, and most importantly have fun! Others will be interested in the stories you have to share from your experiences. 

 First meal in Costa Rica

Water-skiing in Arizona
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=10&v=UP_--NpvhuQ&feature=emb_logo.  

Clink the link above for a 2-minute video listing benefits of travel.

Costa Rica

I visited Costa Rica in 2016, the summer after I graduated from high school. This was my first trip without a family member! Although I was a little nervous about leaving for so long, I was so happy that I did. I traveled with only one classmate from my high school and one faculty advisor. Upon arrival, we met with other students from varying schools across the U.S., although I did not make any close friendships.

I absolutely fell in love with the culture and the environment during the 10 days I was there.

 

Pacific Ocean

I find myself in pure amazement each time I see the ocean. It's incredible to see water for as far as your eyes will allow. It's no wonder there are still portions of the ocean that humans haven't explored. 

  

Tortuguero

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEuY534FACY. 

On our boat ride through the rain forest, we witnessed many sloths hanging in trees, an iguana, and many caiman. The link above shows a 30-second clip of what can be experienced on a boat ride. 

 

Hotel in Manuel Antonio

This hotel was by far the most luxurious during our trip. Even at this hotel we still saw wildlife all around us. We found crabs near the pool, iguanas along the patios, and even a gecko in my roommate's suitcase. I wish I could have stayed longer, but I will definitely be returning someday!

Hong Kong

I visited Hong Kong in 2012 through a mission trip with my church. While our main purpose was to teach Vacation Bible School to elementary aged children, we also had spare time to visit tourist destinations, shop, and swim in the ocean. 

Although the country is very densely populated and sometimes overwhelming, their transportation networks are extremely efficient. I loved taking the subway to our next destination, it was so fast and convenient! We also got to experience a ferry ride across the Victoria Harbour. A tram took us to Victoria Peak where we witnessed a breathtaking bird's-eye view of the Harbour.

 Victoria Peak, Hong Kong (me, mom, and sister)

(Rachel, me, Pinky, and sister)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-9bn2QduXM. 

Follow the link above to a 3-minute video for reasons to travel to Hong Kong.

Why Travel at All?

Although traveling can be expensive, the experience you gain is far more important. Through your experiences with traveling, you may gain an appreciation for other cultures and sometimes a greater appreciation for your own. 
At a young age, we are naturally more curious than when we get older. It is for that reason specifically, I feel as though people should travel when they are young to absorb as much information as possible. 
Travel is also an initiator for forming independence. You have to organize your own time, learn responsibility and personal safety.
At a young age, you are likely in a better physical condition than you will be as you age. You will be better able to walk for extended periods of time and in turn, view more locations. You will also be more likely to go on daring adventures such as zip lining, white water rafting, and more! 
At a younger age, you are likely to have fewer responsibilities. Most people at a young age are not yet working full time, have no children, spouse, or mortgage which would be difficult to pull away from. 

https://time.com/4881326/vacation-health-happiness/.

Follow the link above to a video from TIME magazine that explains the benefits of a well-planned vacation. 

Caribbean Coast in Costa Rica (2016)

Another benefit to traveling regardless of age is the ability to expand social circles. Friendships across the world are not only cool, but will be helpful to plan future trips!

Why Travel Young?

Introduction

Travel is a broad topic that is used for a variety of blogs. There are blogs on how to pack, how to spend as little money as possible, what activities to do on your trip, and so many more. This blog will specifically discuss why I feel traveling is important, my experiences with traveling at a young age, and encouragement for others to do the same. 
Fortunately, I have been on many family vacations across the United States. Although I have not yet visited every state, I am proud of the fact that I have been not only outside of my home town (Omaha), but also my home state (Nebraska). I enjoyed and cherish those experiences within the U.S. However, I feel as though nothing can compare to international travel. 

Family vacation to St. Louis, MO (2013)

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, USA (2014)

Objectives 

• Why Travel Young?
• Why Travel at All?
• My Experiences
• Hong Kong 
• Costa Rica  
• Encouragement for Others to Travel Young 

https://www.usatoday.com/videos/travel/2020/01/22/long-trip-low-budget-heres-how-plan-vacation-your-dreams/4542992002/.
Follow the link above to a short video on cost saving tips.