Growing up, my dad always told me that he regrets very little in his life. However, he always noted that if he could have done one thing differently, it would have been to travel while he was in college. Like most, life quickly caught up with him. He was married with a full-time job and three kids before he knew it, and traveling was no longer an option.
Time and time again, I find myself daydreaming over the hidden corners of the world and realizing how little I've seen of it. More than anything, I want to travel.
For most people, travel doesn't happen because of various barriers like money or responsibilities. But why do these things have to hinder me from doing what I ultimately desire in life?
There's no better time than the present, and I want to soak up every last second of my youth. This is why I'm making travel a priority before I settle down with a full-time job.
Here are the advantages to traveling while you're young.
1. You are young, and so is your metabolism.
When you are exploring some exotic country halfway across the world, you're going to want to be able to experience every aspect of the culture. I'm mostly just talking about the food here, people.
2. This is one of the only times in your life when you can be selfish.
Eventually, most of us will be married and possibly even have children. But for now, we can delight in the bliss of catering to one person and one person alone: ourselves. You can buy a ticket, take off, and not have to worry about anyone being dependent on you.
3. Travel is easier in general while you are young.
Many hostels in foreign countries cater specifically to young people, and it's easier to obtain a work visa at a younger age. Look it up!
4. You can do crazy, stupid things because you're in your 20s, so people just expect it.
Do crazy things when you're 50 and society tends to wonder why you don't have your life together yet.
5. You never know how limited your days may be.
Old age and good health are always a blessing and never a promise. If you can travel now, do it! Don't wait until that "someday" becomes yesterday.