Traveling is a great way to open yourself to grow and expand your horizons. We have told the kids many things over the years about our travels, and the number one rule is that you have to be 100% present. You can not be thinking about back home or what you will be doing next. So the best way to get the most out of your travel is to be 100% present. To help me to be present, I treat my travels like wine. Never in a rush and mostly intentional. I first open my eyes and process what I’m seeing. Is it busy or quiet, skyscrapers or just small buildings? Are the buildings new, or are they historical? Just let your eyes do the work.
As you swirl the wine around the glass, what do you smell? Diesel or flowers? Take your time; it’s like wine. It will open up. Compare your first impressions vs. after it’s been breathing for a while – how has it changed? Is one part of the area different from another location? It might be soft during the day but bold at night. Or it might be busy during the day and sleepy after dark.
Finally, you take your first sip. Is it dry or sweet? What type of body does it have? How are the tannins and the acidity? Ultimately, is it to your liking? Like the wine, you have to let it breathe and open up. Once it does, did it change your attitude? Again, like wine, it’s not about the price but your experience. One can enjoy a $20 bottle of French Bordeaux as well as a $100 Napa Cab. Again, it’s not the price, but what provides you with enjoyment!
Don’t rush to finish that glass or bottle. Instead, enjoy the company and discussions. Get to know the locals and their stories. Cheers and Happy Travels.
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