Wanderlust

Someone once told me that I had wanderlust, and I heartily agree. Indeed, I have an insatiable desire to visit new places, learn new languages, experience different cultures, and explore the world around me. This passion was ignited when I was just 15 years old when I took a trip to Costa Rica. Little did I know that my two-week foray into Central America would spark a life-long love affair.

Some people play video games, and others knit to pass time. Me? I daydream. I daydream about new countries I want to visit. I have been lucky over the last 10 years to indulge my lust for wandering. I have had the privilege to visit 20 countries on 3 continents. One might think such travels would sate my voracious appetite, but instead it just makes me want more. The world is like a piece of dark chocolate in which I have only had a taste.

My advice to others who suffer from wanderlust is this. Go! It doesn’t have to be abroad, but start in your hometown. Visit the museums, national parks, and local landmarks. Many times we pass the familiar without ever truly seeing them.

The Internet is a great resource to utilize. If you have an interest and want to explore it with people in your area, check out http://www.meetup.com. They have branches in different cities all over the world. There are groups for mountain hiking to salsa dancing. Starting now, I encourage you to start wandering.