Everyday Canvas

Foreign Travel

Prompt: Have you ever traveled to a foreign country? What country would you most like to visit?

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Yes, I have been to Canada, all over Europe, and a few places in the Middle East. Some but not all my impressions are in this book item: "Jottings From Journeys" . Unfortunately, I didn’t/don’t get around to writing in it.

I am not too crazy for travel, anymore, because I don’t think I have the guts to put up with the physical challenges of traveling, but I would have liked to go all over Ireland and Scotland. We did pass through Ireland, but it didn’t feel as if I’ve been there. Plus, I love the Irish and the authors from Ireland and Scotland.

Then, when I traveled, rather than the sights and sounds, I focused on people more, which points to my people watching habits. I mostly found a connection with others, which made me more aware of my own self’s inclinations. Different cultures and how tolerant they are of strangers (or not) have added to the strength of my identity and love for the world.

As they say, traveling can be a stress reducer, but it can also add to a person's stress. Honestly speaking, I get more stressed when I travel with people in my family, immediate or extended. I had my best travel experiences when I was alone.

Still, as they say, traveling helps to reinvent yourself. It did, for me, probably only in the beginning. I think, at my age, I have been reinvented enough. Then, maybe I am not as adventurous as I used to think I was.