When traveling to different countries, continents, and even a state, it can become an eye-opening experience with many stories to tell. I have been traveling my whole life and have been fortunate enough to visit some incredible places and learn a lot of new things. Here are six reasons why I think everyone should cross traveling off their bucket list, pack their suitcases, and book a trip!

1. Why Not?

Stop putting off your dream vacation. Once you start to travel, you'll never want to stop. Take off a week of work and just hop on a plane. Be spontaneous, whether it's the island with the clearest water, or the country of your ethnicity. There are no rules on where you choose to start traveling.

2. Learn other cultures.

While living in such a diverse country, you learn a lot about culture. However, it is much different when you’re seeing it up-close. Seeing how others live might make you appreciate where you are from more, or even make you want to change your ways depending on where you choose to visit. It is a great learning experience to take part in a different culture.

3. Language.

Many people in the United States are bilingual. Others have their dominant language and have some knowledge of another through their education. Adapting around a different language is something not a lot of people can say they have done unless they have traveled. When I first visited a country where I was not familiar with the language, I feared not being able to navigate around because I wouldn’t understand. I learned to not be scared because nice people are willing to help you out and how interesting other languages sound. So don’t worry about not speaking Spanish or German, you’ll find your way around or maybe even pick up one or two words!

4. Can’t forget the food.

Haven’t you always wanted to try real pizza from Italy, or even just some mashed potatoes from Ireland?! You know you’re saying yes in your head. Why not explore and try food in the places it originally came from? Trying original foods or even trying new food you have never even heard of is such a thrill of excitement. Put yourself out there and try new things, maybe you’ll find a new favorite meal to make back at home.

5. Travel some place in the world that you can give back.

Of course there is poverty in almost every state. But think of how many countries have the same struggles. Go to a destination that you aren’t so much about the relaxation, but instead give back. It is an amazing feeling to help others, and even more to help those from different parts of the world. It can really change you and your outlook on life. I went to Chaclacayo, Peru to a home ran by an American doctor with kids with all different disabilities and illnesses. It made me appreciate life more by seeing kids who weren’t blessed with perfect health, but were still be able to smile, sometimes even bigger than me.

6. Make unforgettable memories.

Traveling is such a great experience one can never forget. It is your own journey and how you make the most of it. If you go with friends or family the conversation at the dinner table will most likely always start off with “Remember that time?” Sharing the amazing stories will never end, which makes traveling almost addicting to do. There also is no better feeling than finally making your dream vacation come true, or finally going to that one place you’ve been dying to visit.

By doing something new and traveling the world, you’ll be surprised what the world has to offer. Traveling the world should be on your bucket list because you only live once, make the most of what you see within our world.