I’ve always wanted to travel as far back as I can remember. Growing up in the Midwest amid a concrete jungle inspired me to want to see more of the world. As I have traveled in the US and seen how different and unique different parts of our country really are, I also revel in both the similarities and differences of people and cultures from other countries.
While I have enjoyed so much serene scenery, beautiful architecture in Italy and France, and have been captivated by unique and delicious food and languages in Europe, Japan, Mexico, Iceland, Ireland and more, what really inspires me is observing the cultural differences.
Many of these beautiful cultural differences I desire to bring back to the US.
Watching a team of flight attendants in Japan all line up and bow together before their work begins is awe inspiring. The respect they show for one another and the people they serve is precious.
Watching the hospitality and love for food, family and friends amongst Italians is heart warming.
Experiencing the friendliness and fun loving nature of those in Ireland.
Even being in a public bathroom stall in Japan is incredible as they play a recording of a gurgling brook while you’re there taking care of your business!
Additionally, what I love about travel is how it expands my mind and experiences. Before I traveled, I had a much more narrow view of the world.
When we only experience our own culture; our own language, people, places and foods, it’s easy to think that most people live the way we do. It’s easy to become centric in our thinking that our ways are the best ways… when in fact, so many other countries do things a lot different and often better than we do.
Seeing a country ( Japan) that sells tea, and sliced apples in vending machines is inspiring. There are also all kinds of healthy food options in their 7/11’s and family marts. Finding good and healthy convenience food is possible. Why do we think junk food and highly processed food has to be the norm in the US?
There are so many countries where people’s primary mode of transportation is trains, bikes, or scooters so they are not contributing to the global air pollution problem. Those on bikes are getting daily exercise just getting themselves ( and sometimes their children ) from point A to point B.
Certainly, every country has its issues and problems. What I find refreshing is that if we travel with eyes wide open, we can take what is good and adopt it into our own lifestyles to some degree when we return home.
And home is truly where you make it. While I love the lessons and adventures of traveling, it is also so good to come home to our beautiful Kitsap community.
Let’s take the best of what we see, learn and experience and use it not only for our own good, but for the good of our communities, cities and planet.
What are some of your travel experiences and what/ where has left the greatest impressions as a result ? Share with us by replying with comments or questions to lesli@livewellkitsap.com
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