Lessons Learned After 14 Years of Travel: What I Value Now
When I graduated from university at twenty-two, I set out for what I thought would be a quick six-month adventure—a little time to see the world before getting serious about life.
That was fourteen years ago.
I never quite made it back home (though I return for visits, of course!). What started as a temporary escape turned into a full-time passion, transforming my life and my perspective along the way.
In my early travel years, I was a true budget warrior. My goal was simple: to travel as long as possible on as little as possible. I skipped small luxuries like fresh juice in tropical paradises. I slept in crowded dorm rooms with limited privacy. I haggled fiercely, and took the longest, cheapest transport routes too. I was all in, even if it meant missing out on some experiences to save a dollar.
But times—and I—have changed.
Recently, I found myself exploring a remote, untouristed island in the Philippines. It was an incredible spot where local life was still untouched by Instagram hotspots and westernized comforts.
As much as I loved the authenticity of the region, the limited dining options—pork, chicken, and rice on repeat for every meal everyday—started to wear on me. It seemed to be the only thing anyone ate. After three weeks, I found myself dreaming of a fresh vegetable.
And as for showers? We didn’t have one at all. Instead, I took ‘bucket showers,’ where you fill a bucket with cold water, scoop it over your head, and hope it does the trick. While refreshing, it’s no replacement for a real, warm shower.
This trip showed me how much I’ve evolved as a traveler. I still love the raw experiences, but I’m also ready to embrace a few comforts along the way.
Now, I’m all about a little indulgence. Give me that 75-cent coconut or the $1 fresh mango juice. I still love local buses, with all their quirks and character. I cherish connecting with locals. But dorm rooms? No, thank you! I’m all about clean rooms, a private bathroom, maybe even a view if it’s available. Does this mean I’m growing up? Maybe!
Or maybe it’s just realizing what makes travel truly enriching for me now.
Travel has taught me to appreciate the small things we often overlook: clean drinking water, a seat with a cushion on it, or even a roll of toilet paper, thank you! These little pleasures make all the difference, and maybe that’s just part of what makes travel so transformative.
As I work on my upcoming book, sharing my journey with the world feels so exciting. It’s a long journey to become an author—sometimes intense, but it feels worth it. I can’t wait to share my experiences with you all.
And what about you? What’s a small pleasure you never realized you valued until you missed it? Hit reply and let me know- what are your “must-haves” when you’re on the road?
Keep exploring, keep evolving!
