Why I Travel

People travel for all kinds of reasons - personal discovery, a change of pace and so many others. For me, it's always been about seeing new places, challenging myself and learning about far-off cultures. I've been lucky enough to get to travel quite a bit in recent years - to over 20 countries in fact - but it seems like that urge to travel is never fully satisfied! I'm always planning my next trip, regardless of how recently I've traveled. Luckily, I get to venture abroad fairly often for work! I own a travel company (MilesIntoMemoriesTravel.com), and so I often get to help others realize their dreams as well! Anyway, here are my top 3 reasons that I travel:

I Travel for Adventure

Somewhere in my soul is a need to see new places and try new things. I want to go everywhere and try (just about) everything! So far, I've gone bungee jumping in South Africa, swimming with elephants in Thailand and hiking up a mountain in New Mexico. Going out and trying something new is very fulfilling for me, and I find I am at my happiest while on an adventure.

Getting ready for my bungee jump off Bloukran's Bridge in South Africa

I Travel For Personal Growth

When I travel, and particularly when I travel solo, I've found that I come back with a different, more open perspective on the world. I learn things about myself that I don't think I ever would have discovered while at home in my safe zone. I'm so much more capable than I ever realized - I even backpacked by myself for 10 days through Italy, a few years back. I researched the trip, booked everything and navigated my way through foreign cities in a country where I don't speak the language  - and what's more? I had a blast! I was independent, brave and above all, capable! That was incredibly empowering and an experience I'll never forget.

On my solo trip through Italy

I Travel to Learn About the World In Person

I love to learn, but I find that the lessons stick far better when I experience them first-hand. Reading about the history and architecture of say, Barcelona for example, will never do the beautiful work of Gaudi justice. Gaudi was an incredible artist and his work is truly inspiring. I had seen photos of Park Guell and some truly amazing paintings, but it completely dulled when compared to the real thing. Some things you just have to experience.

Me hanging out at sunset in Park Guell in Barcelona

The long and the short of it is traveling is amazing and life-changing. I encourage you to travel as often as possible.  Just get out and go!

City Highlights - Barcelona

I'm starting a series where I'll be covering the highlights of some of my favorite cities. To kick things off, I thought I'd dive into one of my absolute favorite cities: Barcelona. There are so many places in Barca that are worth checking out, but here are a few of my favorites!

#1 - The beaches! Even in the wintertime (which is predominantly when I've spent time in Barca) the beaches are absolutely gorgeous. You can relax and soak up the sun in the summer, or in the cooler months just take a stroll and enjoy the view. There are even spots along the beach with make shift soccer goals set up and workout equipment.

 

 A shot of some beautiful beaches during sunset - taken from a train

#2 Ice Barcelona - If you are into the night life, Barca has several unique clubs and bars, but my favorite is the Ice Bar, aptly called Ice Barcelona! It's a lot of fun! The walls, chair, bar and even the glasses are made of ice. They give you fun, puffy silver jackets to wear along with some gloves. It was a ton of fun!

Hanging in Ice Barcelona around Christmas time

#3 La Sagrada Familia - The legendary Barcelona Artist, Antoni Gaudi designed several structures throughout the city, and arguably his most famous work is La Sagrada Familia. This breathtaking (and enormous) church is an absolute must-see; just be prepared to see some construction since it will be another 10 years or so before the church is completed.

The beautiful (and hard to photograph) La Sagrada Familia

#4 Park Guell - If you want an idyllic view of the city, Park Guell is the place to visit! Like the Sagrada Familia, it was designed by the magnificent Gaudi. The tiling is beautiful and there are some beautiful hikes as well. The outer area is free, but if you want to get the best views you'll have to pay just a few euros to enter the center area.

Park Guell at sunset is my favorite

 #5 - Camp Nou!!! - FC Barcelona, the professional soccer team of Barcelona, is the heartbeat of the city. If you don't have a chance to go see a game in person, at the very least it's worth touring the museum and stadium. Soccer is a huge part of the culture in Barca, so even if soccer isn't your cup of tea, I still recommend checking it out!

Down on the field during the tour

I had the time of my life at El Clasico! If you're not familiar, it's a legendary game between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. The atmosphere was unlike anything I've ever experienced.

I'd love to help you plan a trip of a lifetime to see the sights of Barcelona. Give me a shout at MilesIntoMemoriesTravel.com.