Four weeks before graduation, while most of you all were preparing for finals or mapping out what’s next. I found myself 35,000 feet in the air alone on the way to Thailand. Spontaneously deciding to do a solo trip might be far-fetched, even scary especially knowing I still have assignments due during and after your trip. Traveling has a way of revealing how capable, adaptable, and strong you are. Whether it’s a trip that finally makes it out of the group chat or a solo trip like mine, every adventure brings growth. Traveling is more than sightseeing or selfies for Instagram; travel is a life class with many lessons. Stepping out of your daily routine, city, and comfort zone can be very rewarding. Thailand was just that experience for me. From celebrating Thai new year’s, to the night street food markets. The scenes of independence brought me to navigate places where I didn’t speak none of the language, finding places to eat or go during the day. Mostly discovering the strength, I have to problem solve halfway around the world. You don’t have to fly across the world to have this experience. Texas is huge and you can explore right here.
Texas is a very diverse terrain with beautiful places that make you feel like you’re on the other side of the country. Want to feel like you’re in Dubai or Egypt maybe try Monahans sandhill state park. Rolling hills of sand that look like something out of a Mad Max movie.
Looking for island vibes and pretty blue waters? Try South Padre Island it is just that, with calming energy and its pretty scenery. Vibe could definitely be caught here. Maybe looking for something a little closer try the beautiful coastal town corpus Christi where clear sand beach and bright blue water.
If you are into camping like myself, you find great spots at Sam Houston national forest. which is not far from the city at all and offers hiking trails, lakes and more. Texas has a lot to offer, get out of your norm and explore the world around you. Traveling doesn’t always require a lot of money. Truth is you can start traveling with a small budget weekend road trip, day hikes, or even exploring other cities all count! I hope these locations inspire you to at least look and find something that fits what you are into. Every new place expands your mind and is building your critical thinking skills. The main skill we are learning while attending college.
Students can get overwhelmed with life and school; travel can offer a reset. While also teaching key lessons and building confidence. Exploring allows you to grow the way you view things, opening up the way you think. Remember that there is more out there than more within you than you could even imagine. If you are feeling stuck, maybe try packing a bag and going on a small weekend trip. You don’t have to have a perfect plan, just go and explore. Growth lives in the unknown and some of your biggest lessons happen outside of the classroom. So, whether it’s Thailand, a Texas beach, or camping in the forest take the trip. Once you start traveling you won’t be able to stop.
