The world is full of stunning sights, from soaring mountains and glistening glaciers to bustling cities and candy-colored homes that look like special effects in a blockbuster movie. Whether you’re looking to escape your nine-to-five or simply dreaming of adventure, world travel offers the chance to see the world in ways you never thought possible—or even imagined.
It can also teach you how to live without your daily latte or familiar surroundings, giving you an appreciation for what you have and a desire to seek out new experiences in other parts of the world. As you see different landscapes, delve into a culture or learn about another nation’s language or cuisine, you can become more well-rounded and better informed. Whether you’re an academic or a casual observer, a trip around the world is an immersive experience that can enrich the mind and teach us more about ourselves than any textbook.
The beauty of traveling to foreign destinations is the ability to meet people from all walks of life. This can expose you to a variety of perspectives and beliefs that differ from your own and may challenge the way you think about the world. In the process, you can become a more understanding and accepting person with a deeper appreciation for how diverse the world truly is.
Taking a trip around the world is a great way to transition into a new chapter of your life. Whether you’re between jobs, schools or relationships, a big trip can help you discover who you are and what you want from your future. Moreover, the challenges and opportunities travel lays at your feet will shape you in a way that’s unique to this type of adventure.
Air travel is the easiest way to circumnavigate the globe and there are many different airline alliances that offer round-the-world tickets. For example, Star Alliance and OneWorld both offer global passes where you can visit up to a dozen destinations for the price of a couple of long-haul flights. These pass options tend to be more convenient than purchasing individual ticket for each destination.
Alternatively, you can book a trip through a company like National Geographic Expeditions, which offers trips that bring world-renowned destinations to life by collaborating with groundbreaking experts and pioneers in the field. Their 24-day Around the World by Private Jet expedition, for instance, takes passengers to Easter Island’s Moai statues, Angkor’s temple complexes and rock-carved Petra. Guests can enjoy a five-star journey and bed down in luxury accommodations throughout the trip.