Lessons from Travel: Lessons in Empathy, Preparedness, and Human Nature

As a seasoned traveler, I've realized many valuable lessons that cannot be fully learned in any other way. Traveling is not just about sightseeing, but also about learning from the people we meet, the places we visit, and the unexpected experiences we encounter. One particular story from my trip to Jaipur has left a lasting impact on me.

The Lesson of Positivity

During an event in Jaipur, I met an old lady traveling to Vrindavan on the train. More interestingly, she was recounting a story to me about meeting a man who had helped her during her trip to Vaishno Devi. This man had stayed at the station to see her off, showing his commitment and care. When I asked her about the impact of such acts of kindness, she replied with a smile: "People are naturally helpful, but sometimes life can change their outlook."

As we continued our conversation, she recited a sher (rhyme), which resonated deeply with me:

"Darwaje chhoti hoti parde bhi chhoti hoti thi
Tale ke ijaad se pehle bharosa naam ki ek cheez hoti thi."

The meaning of the sher is that doors and curtains are always small, and trust was a thing before any inventions or changes occurred. This made me reflect on the nature of human beings and how circumstances can change their outlook.

Planning Your Travel Experience

My travels have taught me the importance of prioritizing what you want from your journey. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, plan accordingly. Here are some key tips:

Site Seeing and Convenience

If you're interested in sightseeing, research and plan your itinerary around the most convenient times and ticket prices. For example, certain popular destinations have limited viewing hours or times when the site is less crowded. Understanding these aspects can significantly enhance your travel experience.

Relaxing Holiday: If you're on a relax holiday, don't overload your schedule with too many activities. Choose a hotel that aligns with your relaxation goals and ensure it is comfortable and pleasant.

Traveling with Others

If you're traveling with others, make sure everyone's goals and priorities are aligned. Misaligned expectations can lead to frustration and a less enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Embrace the Unexpected

Travelling often means embracing the unexpected. Traffic jams, sudden weather changes, or even disappointing sightseeing spots are part of the journey. View these surprises as part of the adventure and learning opportunity, rather than sources of frustration.

Navigating New Places

Prior to the widespread use of Google Maps and the internet, local people were our primary sources of navigation assistance in unfamiliar cities. Even with the advent of technology, people are still incredibly helpful. For instance, I once needed to know the timing of an underwater show at an aquarium in Jakarta. Despite the language barrier, a kind gentleman took me to his colleague who understood English and offered to help me.

Not everyone will be helpful, but in general, people are courteous and willing to assist tourists. This human nature extends beyond language barriers, as evidenced by my experience in Jakarta. People go out of their way to help, such as photographing tourists when they are shy to ask for help.

Final Thoughts

Traveling has not only shown me the beauty of the world but also the resilience and helpfulness of people. From old ladies on trains to individuals in foreign lands, the essence of human nature often remains unaltered. By embracing these lessons, we can make more meaningful and unforgettable travel experiences.

Remember, the true spirit of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in connecting with new people and learning invaluable life lessons in the process.