By Shannon Gomes
Travel has always been more than just a change of scenery; it’s a shift in perspective. It’s a chance to step out of the familiar and immerse ourselves in new experiences that challenge what we think we know. At its core, travel teaches us empathy. When we venture out into the world, we’re given the opportunity to walk in someone else’s shoes, even if only for a moment. We begin to see life from different angles, learning that while cultures, customs, and languages may differ, the human experience is remarkably the same.
Whether you’re sitting at a café in Buenos Aires or a local diner a few towns over, travel connects us. We meet people with stories so different from our own, yet through those conversations, we often discover common ground. That moment of connection—a shared laugh, a knowing smile—reminds us that we are all more alike than different. It’s in these exchanges that we build bridges of understanding, breaking down the walls of judgment or assumptions we may have heard negative things about in the media or may have unknowingly constructed.
And here’s the thing: you don’t have to hop on a plane and cross oceans to find this magic. Yes, international travel is enriching and exciting, but transformative experiences can be found just 2-4 hours away from your own doorstep. It’s amazing what a short road trip to a nearby town, a hike in the mountains, or a stay in a quiet coastal village can do for your soul. You’ll discover new communities, try different foods, and maybe even see your own neighborhood in a new light when you return. These close-to-home adventures can reignite your sense of curiosity and wonder just as powerfully as a trip to the other side of the world.
And here in America, with such a vast and diverse landscape, both in terms of geography and people, there’s no shortage of opportunities to deepen our understanding of one another. With so much division today, one of the most powerful ways to bridge that divide is by traveling to different states, regions, and communities. It’s one thing to hear about the values, struggles, and hopes of people in a different part of the country on the news, but it’s an entirely different experience to have conversations with folks in a local coffee shop or restaurant, visit their local markets and shops, or attend their neighborhood festivals. Domestic travel gives us the chance to understand our fellow Americans on a personal level. Each state holds a unique piece of the American story, and by exploring them, we can better appreciate and begin to understand the complex yet beautiful fabric of this nation.
So, whether you’re planning your next international escape, a weekend getaway nearby, or a cross-country road trip, remember that the beauty of travel isn’t defined by distance. It’s about the connections we make, the perspectives we gain, and the empathy we cultivate along the way. Travel reminds us that this world—and this country—both near and far, is filled with stories waiting to be heard and lessons waiting to be learned.
All we have to do is open our hearts and listen.
