“Do not dare not to dare.”
The quote, attributed to C. S. Lewis, is the perfect motto to live your life and start a brand new year – and decade. It’s also the perfect mantra for a traveler.
Can you afford not to dare any longer? Indeed, this is the question you ought to ask yourself. While there is no denying that everybody has valid reasons to stay at home and reject the tantalizing exploration of the world, the truth is that you don’t want to be lying on your deathbed with your mind full of regrets. Travel makes memories, and daring to travel is the promise of stories and anecdotes to keep you entertained and put you back in the driving seat of your life. It’s time to make 2020 the year of daring by understanding what’s stopping your travel plans.
Fear of not being able to stay in touch
In a world where you can keep in touch with your friends and family at the click of a button through your favorite social media apps, it can be terrifying to imagine yourself deprived of modern communication tools. If you’ve rejected the idea of visiting foreign countries because you were worried your phone wouldn’t work abroad, here’s a little tip for you: Some countries have also passed roaming agreements with the US. Indeed, any modern phone should work in Europe, for instance, when it comes to your data plan. However, some carriers might use a different wireless technology, which can affect your phone. For other countries, you can take a look at global mobile plans, such as Lebara international roaming, which will ensure you can maintain your communication even when you’re abroad. Additionally, it’s fair to say that you’ll be able to find Wi-Fi in most countries, so traveling nowadays doesn’t affect your communication routine in the way it used to.
Fear of the unknown
Popular destinations look amazing in pictures. From sandy beaches to colorful houses, they leave an unforgettable image in your mind. But it’s hard to know how the people are over there when you never leave your home. For someone who feels comfortable in their community where they know every spot, and everyone can experience anxiety at the idea of visiting an unknown place. After all, the world is a dangerous place; how can you be sure you’ll be safe? Here’s the truth: The world can be dangerous. But it’s not new; it’s never been a safe place.
Nevertheless, it doesn’t mean that traveling is dangerous. On the contrary, traveling helps you to become more tolerant and accepting of other people. More importantly, it helps you to become more aware of everyday situations at home and abroad and realize that what you don’t know doesn’t have to be scary.
Fear of running out of money
Traveling is expensive. It is a truth that, sadly, can’t be denied. Traveling, indeed, comes at a cost. However, it doesn’t mean that it is unaffordable. On the contrary, you can plan and budget ahead for short trips. More often than not, travelers who run out of money during their trips can only blame themselves. Losing count of the local currency value or over-indulging in fancy restaurants and bars is something you can easily avoid with a little discipline. For long-term travelers, you can boost your savings with digital nomad jobs on the go. Social media activities, copywriting, translating, and virtual assistant jobs are the perfect tasks for someone who’s always on the road.
Fear of going solo
Sure, traveling sounds fun… But traveling on your own can feel a little daunting. If you’re the kind of person who reads a lot of travel blogs held by families and couples, you might not know how to embrace your travel fever alone. Is it okay to visit new places on your own? It is a little like the philosophical thought experiment: If a tree falls in a forest, and no one is around to hear it, does the sound still exist? Are your travel memories real if you’ve got no one to share them? The short answer is yes. The long answer is: You’re never alone when you travel. You can share memories with the people you meet. You can join a group if you’re worried about organizing everything by yourself. And you’ve got your international roaming options to share everything with your friends!
Fear of transitions
Life carries on, regardless of where you are in the world. Aging parents or pets will not stop aging because you refuse to travel. You can’t truly put your life on hold for the sake of others. It’s important to let them know that you’re there for them. But you need to accept that things change, and let them be.
Make 2020 the year of travel dares. You need to seize the day and make it yours, wherever it takes you. Traveling is a positive experience that shouldn’t be stained by fears. Let 2020 be fearless!