How Travel Will Change You
Hello and welcome! I’m Travel With Dre and my aim is to help you travel and explore the world on a budget. Get the most from my travel hacks and reviews to make your next trip memorable. It’s a shame that nearly half of Americans don’t or can’t use their vacation time. We’ve earned that time and it’s a tragedy that we don’t use that time to recharge the batteries. Travel will open your eyes to new sites, foods, people, culture, and a different way of living.
It amazes me how many people think they need a high income to “travel the right way” only to wind up not using their vacation time just sitting at home. My goal is to share my tips and tricks for traveling the world on a budget and lead a rich life. These days like many of you I prefer experiences over material things. You can’t take your collection of whatever when you die but memories do last forever.
Travel can be a life-changing experience:
Several studies show traveling changes your perspective on life and make you more open-minded. Travel forces you to step outside your comfort zone which is vital if you want to grow as a person. Sometimes you just need to confront barriers and knock them down and move forward. Frankly, there’s nothing more satisfying than conquering your fear of booking a solo tour and meeting new people in a foreign country.
Think about it, have you booked a trip somewhere and the anticipation was so great you couldn’t wait to get there? Afterward, do you remember that trip being just awesome? Studies show that travel does boost happiness.
Over the past few years, I made it a point in my life ALWAYS to take a year-end trip. I don’t want to be home for New Year. That belief began when I was nearly broke but opted not to drive to Las Vegas for at least a couple of days and celebrate with friends. When I got texts wishing me a happy new year, I was miserable. I knew they were having a great time while I was watching TV at home. That wasn’t a really good feeling.
You Don’t Need Lots of Money to Travel!
Sadly, I was under the impression to “travel right” I needed to stay in a resort or at least a 4-star hotel or know someone to show me around. I couldn’t have been more wrong! My desire was there but the thought of having money always held me back. It was in December of 2008 when I broke that cycle, I decided to celebrate New Year’s in Europe and booked a discounted trip, and off I went on my first guided tour in Germany and the Czech Republic for 8 days.
I completely stepped outside my comfort zone with this trip. For me, it’s all about the experience of stepping foot in another land and experiencing something new.
Plan Ahead!
Planning is the name of the game here. I usually plan 6 months ahead to take advantage and look for deals around the holidays in spring and early summer because companies are offering discounts on airfare and guided tours.
It’s always nice knowing you got the early bird special like the time I saved 50% off a tour because it was near Mother’s Day! Just a little bit of research online and you’ll see just how many free resources there are to help you plan your next rip.
Travel Worldwide On A Budget!
Everywhere I go is always on a budget, it doesn’t matter where it is. I’m always mindful of my spending and do whatever possible to save money for my traveling. Looking back, I can’t believe some of the frivolous spending I engaged in when that could have easily gotten me to Ireland or Italy. The best advice I can give you is to save as much as possible for your travel fund.
As a budget traveler, there are so many resources at your fingertips that you probably didn’t realize existed or didn’t think of. Make sure to explore this site as it’s loaded with resources to guide you on the best backpacks, tech gear, travel accessories, how to navigate hostels, and more importantly using tour companies to your advantage and get the best deal.
Will all travel experiences be life-changing?
No. Personally, I never liked cruises and would never do one voluntarily. Staying on a boat and stepping on dry land for a few hours doesn’t allow you to explore. Nor do I think a quick weekend getaway is profound. My mantra is to really step outside your comfort zone and go somewhere you never thought of going.
That being said, taking a vacation away from the office is necessary to put the stress behind you and live in the moment. Always remember that vacations are about taking time off and relaxing.
