Why I Travel

I travel because it makes me happy and honestly, I’m addicted to it. I’m happiest when I am exploring a new city and meeting new people. I get a rush from not knowing anyone for miles and not knowing where I’m going.

My first taste of solo travel came at 21 when I traveled to China for an internship. I remember how liberated I felt exploring Dongguan and how the simplest everyday occurrences suddenly became extremely fascinating. Before heading back to Los Angeles, I spent three days in Hong Kong. I had become so comfortable, I took my morning jog through Kowloon Park instead of the hotel gym. I’ll never forget during my last night riding around on the Big Bus tour looking out at a city I never imagined I’d be in. I felt overwhelmed with an urge for more. I wanted to see more, do more, and explore more. I was hooked. My mindset since that trip has been to see as much of the world as I possibly can.

People, frequently ask when I started traveling, how I am able to travel, and why I choose the places I go to? Travel is a choice. In reality, not all aspects of travel are glamourous or comfortable, but the reward is finally reaching a destination I have dreamed about. I am able to travel because I choose to get up and go. Some of my trips abroad are for work but most are just motivated by my interest to experience city or country. We are taught that we must “pay our dues before we can enjoy to luxuries of life”. I think that’s bullshit. The optimal time to travel is when you are young, wild, and free. I don’t have kids, a mortgage, or a full time job stopping me from getting up and going whenever or wherever I feel like. I want to see the world now while I can still enjoy it with my friends.

I will always know where home is, but to truly understand the world and where you fit, you need to see it, taste it, feel it, and become a part of it.