I Stayed in 10 Different Hostels in Europe: A Brutally Honest Ranking (Worst to Best)
My hostel journey started at the bottom: a chaotic, 20-bed dorm that smelled like feet and had one functioning bathroom. It was less like a place to sleep and more like a human storage unit. The mid-tier hostels were clean but sterile, lacking any personality or social vibe. The best hostel, however, was a true gem. It had comfortable beds, was impeccably clean, and featured a cozy common area where travelers from around the world shared stories over cheap beer. It wasn’t just a bed; it was the heart of my travel experience, proving the best hostels build communities.
Ranking Every Country I’ve Visited by How Friendly the Locals Were (Worst to Best)
My friendliness ranking begins in a country where I felt invisible; locals seemed annoyed by my presence, making interactions feel like a burden. In the middle were countries where people were polite but distant, like a formal business meeting. The friendliest country, however, felt like a homecoming. Strangers smiled on the street, shopkeepers were genuinely curious about my story, and I was even invited to a family dinner. This warmth and genuine connection turned a simple trip into a deeply human experience, reminding me that people, not places, make a journey unforgettable.
I Flew on 5 Different Budget Airlines for a Week: Here’s What They Don’t Tell You (Worst to Best)
My budget airline experiment revealed a world of hidden fees. The worst airline was a master of the bait-and-switch, luring me in with a cheap fare only to charge outrageous fees for my carry-on at the gate. The mid-tier airlines were simply uncomfortable, with cramped seats and no amenities. The best budget airline, however, was honest and efficient. They were transparent about their fees from the start and, despite the lack of frills, got me from point A to point B on time and without any stressful surprises. They proved that “budget” can mean simple, not sneaky.
Ranking the Most Overrated and Underrated Tourist Attractions in the World (Worst to Best)
My travels have taught me that hype can be deceiving. The most overrated attractions are the ones you see on Instagram, which in reality are a chaotic mob scene where you have to fight for a photo. The underrated gems are the real treasures. The most underrated attraction I’ve found was a small, local food market in a non-touristy neighborhood. There were no lines or admission fees, just the incredible sights, sounds, and flavors of authentic daily life. It was a genuine experience that felt more real and memorable than any famous landmark.
I Tried to Travel for a Month With Only a Carry-On Bag: My Packing Mistakes Ranked (Worst to Best)
My carry-on-only month was a lesson in essentials. My biggest mistake was packing “just in case” items, like a bulky jacket for a tropical destination, which was dead weight. A less critical error was bringing too many of the same type of clothing, like five t-shirts when three would have done. The best decision I made was packing versatile items, like a scarf that could be used for warmth, sun protection, or as a fashion accessory. Learning to pack light was not about restriction; it was about the freedom of being unburdened and mobile.
Ranking the Most Common and Annoying Travel Scams to Avoid (Worst to Best)
Travel scams prey on your politeness. A common one is the “friendship bracelet” scam, where someone ties a bracelet on you and then demands payment. More annoying are the taxi drivers with “broken” meters who charge you an exorbitant flat rate. The most insidious scam, however, is the “spilled drink” trick. While one person “accidentally” spills something on you and apologizes profusely, an accomplice picks your pocket. The best defense is a healthy dose of skepticism and being aware of your surroundings, especially during moments of unexpected chaos.
I Compared 10 Different Travel Insurance Policies: The Fine Print Ranked (Worst to Best)
Reading travel insurance fine print is a nightmare. The worst policies were full of loopholes and exclusions, offering the illusion of coverage without any real protection, especially for common issues like flight cancellations. The mid-tier policies offered decent medical coverage but had high deductibles. The best travel insurance policy was clear, concise, and comprehensive. It covered a wide range of potential problems, from lost baggage to medical emergencies, with a straightforward claims process. It was true peace of mind, proving that the value is in the clarity and reliability, not just the price.
Ranking the Best and Worst Cities for Solo Female Travelers (Worst to Best)
As a solo female traveler, a city’s vibe is everything. The worst cities were those where I experienced constant catcalling and felt the need to be on high alert, especially after dark, which was exhausting. The mid-range cities felt safe, but I still felt like an outsider. The best cities, however, were a breath of fresh air. They had safe and reliable public transportation, a culture of respect, and a welcoming atmosphere where I could walk around, day or night, feeling completely at ease and free to explore without a second thought.
I Tried to Learn a New Language in a Month Using 5 Different Apps Before a Trip (Worst to Best)
My pre-trip language app experiment had clear winners. The worst app was a simple flashcard system that taught me vocabulary but not how to form a sentence. The mid-tier apps used gamification to keep me engaged but focused on unrealistic sentences. The best app, however, focused on conversational phrases I would actually use, like ordering coffee or asking for directions. It used audio from native speakers and real-life scenarios, which gave me the confidence to actually speak the language when I arrived, proving practical application beats rote memorization every time.
Ranking the Most Delicious and Disgusting Street Food I’ve Eaten Around the World (Worst to Best)
My street food adventures have been a wild ride for my taste buds. The most disgusting thing I’ve ever eaten was a deep-fried insect that was both bitter and unpleasantly crunchy. More palatable, but still strange, was a fermented tofu dish with an overwhelmingly pungent aroma. The most delicious street food, however, was a simple bowl of noodle soup from a street cart in Southeast Asia. The rich, complex broth and fresh ingredients created a flavor explosion that was more satisfying than any meal I’ve had in a fancy restaurant, proving that the best food is often the simplest.
I Compared the Cost of an Airbnb vs. a Hotel in 5 Different Cities (Worst to Best)
My accommodation comparison revealed that the better value depends on the trip. For a short, one-night stay, a hotel was often cheaper and more convenient after accounting for Airbnb’s cleaning and service fees. For a longer stay of a week, however, an Airbnb was the clear winner. Having a kitchen to cook some of my own meals saved a huge amount of money, and the extra space felt more like a home than a sterile hotel room. The best choice ultimately comes down to the length of your stay and your travel style.
Ranking the Most Important and Useless Travel Gadgets You Can Buy (Worst to Best)
The world of travel gadgets is full of junk. The most useless gadget I’ve bought is a portable laundry washing bag, which was messy and ineffective. A more useful, but not essential, gadget is a neck pillow. The most important and game-changing travel gadget, however, is a simple portable power bank. The peace of mind that comes from knowing you can always charge your phone to look at a map, call for help, or access your boarding pass is priceless. It’s the one gadget that has saved me from stressful situations more times than I can count.
I Tried to Visit 5 National Parks in 5 Days: A Realistic Ranking of the Experience (Worst to Best)
My “five parks in five days” trip was a lesson in “less is more.” The worst part of the experience was the constant feeling of being rushed. I spent more time driving and checking into hotels than actually enjoying the parks, getting just a superficial glimpse of each one. The best part, which I only realized in hindsight, was the single afternoon I spent on one quiet trail. That one immersive experience was more memorable and rewarding than all the frantic photo-ops at the other parks combined, proving that depth is far more valuable than distance when it comes to travel.
Ranking the Most Common and Frustrating Things About Airports (Worst to Best)
Airports are a gauntlet of frustrations. A common annoyance is the overpriced food and water. More frustrating are the long, slow-moving security lines where the rules seem to change every time. The most frustrating thing about airports, however, is the lack of clear and timely information during a delay or cancellation. Being left in the dark, with no idea when or if you will be leaving, is a uniquely stressful and powerless feeling that can ruin the start or end of any trip.
I Compared the Experience of Traveling by Train, Bus, and Plane Across a Country (Worst to Best)
Traveling across a country, the mode of transport makes all the difference. The worst experience was the long-distance bus, which was cramped, slow, and often had questionable bathroom facilities. The plane was the fastest but also the most stressful, with airport security and the feeling of being herded like cattle. The best experience, by far, was the train. It offered the speed of a plane without the hassle, comfortable seats, and the ability to watch the beautiful scenery roll by. It felt like a relaxing part of the journey itself, not just a means to an end.
Ranking the Most Beautiful and Disappointing Beaches I’ve Ever Been To (Worst to Best)
Not all beaches live up to the postcard image. The most disappointing beach was a famous one that was overcrowded, littered with trash, and lined with aggressive vendors. It felt more like a chaotic tourist trap than a paradise. The most beautiful beach I’ve ever been to, however, was a small, secluded cove I stumbled upon by accident. It had crystal-clear water, pristine sand, and the only sound was the gentle lapping of the waves. The beauty was in its untouched, natural state, proving that the best places are often the ones you can’t find on Instagram.
I Tried to Volunteer Abroad With 3 Different Organizations: The Real Impact Ranked (Worst to Best)
Volunteering abroad can be a tricky landscape. The worst experience was with an organization that felt more like a “voluntourism” business, where my high fees went to administrative costs and my work was superficial. A better experience was with a program that was well-intentioned but poorly organized. The best and most impactful experience was with a small, community-led organization. I could see exactly where my time and money were going, and I worked alongside locals on projects they had initiated. It felt like a genuine partnership, not just a feel-good vacation.
Ranking the Most Important and Overlooked Tips for Traveling on a Budget (Worst to Best)
Traveling on a budget is about smart choices. A good tip is to use public transportation. A better tip is to eat at local markets instead of tourist restaurants. The most important and often overlooked tip, however, is to travel during the “shoulder season”—the months just before or after the peak season. The weather is still great, the crowds are smaller, and flights and accommodations can be significantly cheaper. It’s the single best way to get a premium travel experience for a budget price.
I Compared the Nightlife in 5 Different Major Cities: A Party-Goer’s Ranking (Worst to Best)
Exploring nightlife in different cities revealed a wide spectrum of vibes. The worst city had nightlife that was pretentious and incredibly expensive, with long lines and rude bouncers. The mid-range cities had fun bars but lacked a central, vibrant energy. The best city for nightlife, however, had a diverse and accessible scene. From rooftop bars and underground clubs to lively street parties, there was something for everyone, and the energy was infectious. It felt welcoming and alive, making it easy to have a memorable night out without breaking the bank.
Ranking the Best and Worst Times of Year to Visit Popular Destinations (Worst to Best)
Timing is everything when visiting popular destinations. The worst time to go is during the peak season, when you’ll face oppressive crowds, long lines, and inflated prices, which can suck the joy out of even the most beautiful place. A better time is the off-season, when you’ll have the place to yourself, but you might have to deal with bad weather. The absolute best time to visit is the shoulder season. This sweet spot offers the perfect balance of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices, giving you the best possible experience of a destination.
I Tried to Take the Perfect Instagram Photo at 10 Different Famous Landmarks: The Reality Ranked (Worst to Best)
Trying to get that perfect Instagram shot is a lesson in frustration. The worst experience is when you have to wait in a long line just for your 30-second turn to take a photo, with hundreds of people watching. The reality of most famous landmarks is a constant battle with crowds, bad lighting, and other people getting in your shot. The best photos I’ve taken, and the ones that mean the most, are the candid shots from unexpected moments, not the perfectly posed ones. They capture the real feeling of the journey, not just the curated highlight reel.
Ranking the Most Common and Annoying Things Tourists Do (Worst to Best)
As a tourist, it’s easy to make a bad impression. A common annoyance is stopping suddenly in the middle of a crowded sidewalk to look at a map. More frustrating is the tourist who is loud and disrespectful in a place of worship or a quiet neighborhood. The most annoying thing tourists do, however, is treat the local culture like a theme park. Haggling aggressively over a small amount of money or treating locals like props in a photo is not only rude but also dehumanizing. The best tourists are respectful observers, not just consumers.
I Compared the Public Transportation Systems in 5 Different Megacities (Worst to Best)
Navigating a megacity’s public transport is a key part of the experience. The worst system was a confusing mess of poorly marked bus routes and an unreliable subway, making it incredibly stressful to get around. The mid-tier cities had efficient but overcrowded systems. The best public transportation system, however, was a marvel of engineering and design. It was clean, safe, and so intuitive that I could navigate the entire city with ease on my first day. It made the city feel accessible and welcoming, turning a potential source of stress into a seamless part of the adventure.
Ranking the Most Important and Overlooked Aspects of Responsible Tourism (Worst to Best)
Responsible tourism goes beyond just recycling your water bottle. An often-overlooked aspect is being mindful of your water and energy consumption in your hotel. More important is shopping at local businesses and markets instead of international chains to ensure your money stays in the community. The most important and overlooked aspect of responsible tourism, however, is choosing ethical tour operators who treat their employees and the environment with respect. Your choice of where to spend your money is a powerful vote for the kind of tourism you want to support.
I Tried to Go on a Digital Detox Vacation for a Week: My Withdrawal Symptoms Ranked (Worst to Best)
My week without a phone was a rollercoaster of withdrawal. The first couple of days were the worst, filled with a constant, nagging anxiety and the feeling that I was missing something important. The middle of the week was marked by a sense of boredom and restlessness. The best part, which emerged towards the end of the week, was a profound sense of calm and presence. I noticed the world around me in more detail, my conversations were deeper, and my mind felt clearer. It was a difficult but incredibly rewarding reset for my brain.
Ranking the Best and Worst Loyalty Programs for Airlines and Hotels (Worst to Best)
Not all loyalty programs are created equal. The worst programs have points that expire, limited availability for reward bookings, and constantly change their rules, making it nearly impossible to get any real value. The mid-tier programs offer some decent perks but require a huge amount of spending to reach elite status. The best loyalty programs are simple and transparent. They have points that don’t expire, good availability for reward travel, and offer valuable perks like free checked bags or room upgrades that genuinely improve the travel experience.
I Compared the Experience of a Cruise vs. an All-Inclusive Resort (Worst to Best)
Cruises and all-inclusive resorts offer different flavors of vacation. For me, the cruise was the worse of the two. While I got to see multiple destinations, the experience felt rushed and superficial, with a constant pressure to stick to a rigid schedule. The all-inclusive resort, on the other hand, was the winner for pure relaxation. There was no need to pack and unpack, and the ability to truly settle in and enjoy the amenities without a ticking clock made for a much more restful and rejuvenating vacation.
Ranking the Most Common and Dangerous Mistakes to Make When Traveling Alone (Worst to Best)
Traveling alone is liberating, but some mistakes are more dangerous than others. A common mistake is not having offline maps downloaded, which can leave you lost if you lose cell service. A more dangerous mistake is telling strangers exactly where you are staying. The most dangerous mistake, however, is not trusting your gut. If a person or a situation feels wrong, it probably is. Your intuition is your most powerful safety tool, and ignoring it can lead to serious trouble. Always prioritize your safety over being polite.
I Tried to Eat at Michelin-Starred Restaurants on a Budget: My Strategies Ranked (Worst to Best)
Eating at a Michelin-starred restaurant on a budget is an art. The worst strategy is trying to order a la carte, which almost always ends up being expensive. A better strategy is to look for the set lunch menu, which often offers a taste of the restaurant’s quality for a fraction of the dinner price. The absolute best strategy, however, is to find a Michelin-starred restaurant that has a more casual “bistro” or “bar” section. You can often order from a different, much cheaper menu while still experiencing the same kitchen’s incredible food and service.
Ranking the Most Important and Useless Phrases to Learn in a Foreign Language (Worst to Best)
When learning a language for travel, some phrases are more useful than others. The most useless phrases are often the ones taught in basic language apps, like “the cat is under the table.” More useful is learning how to ask “how much is this?” The most important and powerful phrases you can learn, however, are the simple pleasantries: “hello,” “please,” “thank you,” and “I’m sorry.” Using these shows respect for the local culture and can transform a simple transaction into a friendly human interaction, opening doors and creating goodwill wherever you go.
I Compared the Hiking Trails in 5 Different Mountain Ranges: A Hiker’s Ranking (Worst to Best)
My hiking adventures have taken me to some incredible mountain ranges. The worst hiking experience was on a poorly maintained trail that was overcrowded and littered with trash. The mid-range trails offered beautiful scenery but were either too easy or punishingly difficult. The best hiking trail I’ve ever been on had a perfect balance of challenge and reward. It was well-marked, offered breathtaking and varied scenery, and culminated in a stunning viewpoint that made every step of the journey worth it. It was a truly transformative experience.
Ranking the Most Common and Frustrating Things About Exchanging Currency (Worst to Best)
Exchanging currency can be a frustrating process full of hidden costs. The worst option is always the currency exchange booth at the airport, which offers terrible exchange rates and high fees. A slightly better option is to exchange cash at a bank in the city. The best and most cost-effective method, however, is to simply use a debit card with no foreign transaction fees to withdraw local currency from an ATM. You get the best possible exchange rate and avoid the hassle and hidden costs of the currency exchange game.
I Tried to Couchsurf in 3 Different Countries: My Wildest Stories Ranked (Worst to Best)
My couchsurfing experiences have ranged from awkward to amazing. The worst was with a host who treated me less like a guest and more like a live-in therapist for their personal problems, which was incredibly uncomfortable. A better experience was with a host who was polite but distant, simply providing a place to sleep. The best couchsurfing experience, however, was with a host who became a true friend. They showed me their city through a local’s eyes, introduced me to their friends, and shared their culture with me. It was the most authentic and memorable travel experience of my life.
Ranking the Best and Worst Souvenirs to Buy (and Bring Home) (Worst to Best)
Not all souvenirs are created equal. The worst are the cheap, mass-produced trinkets that say the name of the city but are made in another country. A better souvenir is something edible, like a local chocolate or spice, which is enjoyable but doesn’t create clutter. The best souvenirs, however, are the ones that are both locally made and useful or beautiful in their own right. A hand-painted ceramic bowl or a high-quality leather good will not only remind you of your trip but will also be a cherished item you can use for years to come.
I Compared the Experience of a Guided Tour vs. Exploring a City on My Own (Worst to Best)
Exploring a city can be done in different ways. For me, the worst experience is a large, rushed bus tour where you spend more time getting on and off the bus than actually seeing the sights. A better option is a small-group walking tour, which is more intimate and informative. The best experience, however, is exploring a city on my own. The freedom to get lost, stumble upon hidden gems, and move at my own pace is liberating. It allows for the kind of spontaneous discovery that makes a trip truly my own.
Ranking the Most Common and Annoying Jet Lag Remedies That Don’t Work (Worst to Best)
When it comes to jet lag, there’s a lot of bad advice out there. The worst is to take a long nap as soon as you arrive, which completely messes up your internal clock. Another popular but ineffective remedy is to load up on coffee, which just leads to a crash later. The best and most effective remedy is simple but hard: force yourself to stay awake until a normal local bedtime on your first day. Get as much sunlight as possible, stay hydrated, and your body will adapt much more quickly than with any “magic” pill or potion.
I Tried to Find the Best Coffee in 5 Different Coffee-Loving Cities (Worst to Best)
My quest for the perfect cup of coffee has been a caffeinated journey. The worst coffee I had was from a tourist-trap cafe that served a bitter, burnt brew for an exorbitant price. The mid-range coffee shops were decent but forgettable. The best coffee I’ve ever had was from a small, unassuming shop in a quiet neighborhood, run by a passionate barista who treated coffee-making like an art form. The care and expertise that went into that one perfect cup was a transcendent experience, proving that the best things often come from the most dedicated people.
Ranking the Most Important and Overlooked Aspects of Travel Safety (Worst to Best)
Travel safety is more than just avoiding pickpockets. An overlooked aspect is having digital copies of your important documents, like your passport, stored in the cloud. More important is sharing your itinerary with someone back home so they know where you are. The most important and often overlooked aspect of travel safety, however, is getting travel insurance. An unexpected medical emergency in a foreign country can be financially devastating, and having good insurance is the ultimate safety net that can turn a potential catastrophe into a manageable inconvenience.
I Compared the Ski Resorts in 3 Different Countries: A Skier’s Ranking (Worst to Best)
My ski resort comparison revealed that the overall experience matters as much as the snow. The worst resort had great snow but was plagued by long lift lines and outdated infrastructure, meaning I spent more time waiting than skiing. The mid-range resort was well-run but lacked a charming atmosphere. The best ski resort, however, had a perfect blend of challenging terrain, modern and efficient lifts, and a vibrant, welcoming village at the base of the mountain. It was the complete package, offering a fantastic experience both on and off the slopes.
Ranking the Most Impactful and Overrated Travel Experiences of My Life (Worst to Best)
Looking back, some travel experiences were more transformative than others. The most overrated was visiting a world-famous landmark, which felt more like ticking a box than a genuine experience. A more impactful experience was seeing a breathtaking natural wonder, which put my own life into perspective. The most impactful and life-changing travel experience of my life, however, was simply living in a foreign city for a month. The daily challenges and small victories of navigating a different culture taught me more about myself and the world than any fleeting tourist attraction ever could.
I Tried to Travel With My Pet on 3 Different Airlines: The Stress Levels Ranked (Worst to Best)
Traveling with a pet is a stressful endeavor. The worst experience was with an airline that had a confusing booking process and unhelpful staff, making me worry about my pet’s safety the entire time. A better experience was with an airline that had a clear and simple pet policy. The best and least stressful experience, however, was with an airline that truly seemed to care about my pet’s well-being. The staff were reassuring and professional, and the process was smooth and organized, which made a huge difference to my peace of mind.
Ranking the Most Common and Frustrating Things About Packing and Unpacking (Worst to Best)
The cycle of packing and unpacking is a necessary evil of travel. A common frustration is playing “Tetris” with your belongings to try to make everything fit in your suitcase. More frustrating is the inevitable moment you realize you’ve forgotten something essential, like a phone charger. The most frustrating thing, however, is arriving home exhausted from a trip, only to face the daunting task of unpacking a suitcase full of dirty laundry. It’s the final, tedious chore that officially marks the end of a great adventure.
I Compared the Street Art Scenes in 5 Different Cities Around the World (Worst to Best)
Exploring street art reveals the soul of a city. The least interesting scene was in a city where the art felt like sanctioned, corporate murals. A more vibrant scene was in a city with a lot of graffiti and tagging, which had a raw energy but lacked artistry. The best street art scene, however, was in a city where the art was a dynamic and celebrated part of the urban landscape. From massive, breathtaking murals to small, clever stencils, the art was woven into the fabric of the city, turning a simple walk into a thrilling treasure hunt.
Ranking the Best and Worst Museums I’ve Ever Visited (Worst to Best)
Not all museums are captivating. The worst are the ones that are just a collection of objects in glass cases with dense, academic labels, feeling more like a dusty old library than an engaging experience. The better museums use interactive exhibits to make learning fun. The best museums I’ve ever visited, however, are the ones that tell a story. They use a compelling narrative and immersive design to connect with you on an emotional level, leaving you with a newfound sense of wonder and understanding. They don’t just show you history; they make you feel it.
I Tried to Go on a Spontaneous Trip With No Plans: The Chaos Ranked (Worst to Best)
My spontaneous, no-plans trip was a mix of chaos and magic. The worst part was the stress of trying to find last-minute accommodation in a busy city, which was expensive and time-consuming. The middle ground was the freedom to change my mind and stay longer in a place I loved. The best and most magical part was the unexpected discoveries—the hidden alleyway, the local festival I stumbled upon, the conversation with a stranger that led to an unforgettable meal. The lack of a plan opened the door for serendipity, which is the true magic of travel.
Ranking the Most Important and Overlooked Cultural Etiquette to Know Before You Travel (Worst to Best)
Cultural etiquette is key to being a respectful traveler. An overlooked but important detail is knowing the local tipping customs. More important is dressing appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites. The most important and often overlooked piece of cultural etiquette, however, is learning a few basic words in the local language. Simply being able to say “hello” and “thank you” shows a level of respect and effort that can completely change the tone of your interactions with locals, opening doors and creating a much warmer experience.
I Compared the Christmas Markets in 5 Different European Cities (Worst to Best)
My Christmas market tour was a festive feast for the senses. The worst market was an overcrowded tourist trap, selling generic, mass-produced goods. The mid-range markets were charming but small, with limited food options. The best Christmas market, however, was a sprawling, magical wonderland. It had a perfect blend of traditional crafts, delicious local food and drink, and a joyful, festive atmosphere. It felt authentic and deeply rooted in local tradition, capturing the true spirit of the holidays and creating a memory I will cherish forever.
Ranking the Most Common and Annoying Things About Group Travel (Worst to Best)
Group travel is a delicate balance. A common annoyance is trying to coordinate bathroom breaks and snack stops. More frustrating is having to compromise on activities, meaning you often miss out on things you really want to see. The most annoying thing about group travel, however, is the “group pace.” There’s always someone who is perpetually late or someone who wants to rush through everything, forcing the entire group to move at a frustratingly slow or uncomfortably fast pace. It’s the constant battle with the clock and each other’s schedules that can be the most draining.
I Tried to Find the Most Authentic Local Experiences in 5 Touristy Cities (Worst to Best)
Finding authenticity in a touristy city is a challenge. The worst approach is to stick to the main tourist drags, where everything is a performance for visitors. A better approach is to visit a local market. The most effective way to find authentic experiences, however, is to simply walk away from the city center. I would pick a random spot on the map a few miles away, take the subway there, and just explore. In these quiet, normal neighborhoods, I found the best food, the friendliest people, and a true glimpse into everyday life, far from the tourist crowds.
Ranking the Most Important and Life-Changing Lessons I’ve Learned from Traveling (Worst to Best)
Traveling has taught me many lessons. A good lesson was how to be more independent and self-reliant. A more important lesson was the realization that people all over the world, despite our differences, share the same basic hopes and fears. The most important and life-changing lesson I’ve learned, however, is the value of experiences over things. The memories of a beautiful sunset, a shared meal with a new friend, or overcoming a challenge in a foreign land are treasures that have enriched my life far more than any physical possession ever could.