I grew up fortunate enough to have parents that have always made travel a priority in our lives. From an early age, they took my brother and myself on trips all around the country and, eventually, the world. Most of our trips when we were small were to locations within the United States, but the more we ventured out, the more confident we became in our flexibility.
Thanks in large part to my parents, I have been to 48 of the 50 states and over 20 countries. Even to this day, we continue to travel together, going on exciting multi-generational trips with our own children now in tow.
Our experiences as kids help to shape us as adults. Many of my travel-based experiences as a child formed my decisions about college, studying abroad, and also obtaining a Master's Degree in Intercultural Communication. Seeing life through the lens of another culture is essential for developing a broader perspective on human similarities and differences. When we experience first hand how the other half lives, when we find things to love and appreciate even amongst those who are very different from us, it becomes increasingly difficult to ostracize or marginalize them.
For this reason, I have a desire to encourage everyone to get out there and travel. See the world, see the world around you in new ways, and see yourself through the eyes of another culture. Your kids will thank you for it - for the adventures they get to go on while they're children, and for the perspective it will give them as adults.
You have kids (or maybe not). Now, travel!