Paris, France – June 2017

Wanderlust

wan·der·lust \ˈwän-dər-ˌləst\

a strong desire to travel.

For me, traveling is an escape. I’m able to meet people from all walks of life, who don’t know me at all. I’m able to escape from my crazy life as a 25-year-old in America and just be FREE. I started my #roadto50by30 in March 2013, when my girls and I took a spring break cruise to Cozumel, Mexico. I’ve been hooked ever since! As of today, I’ve been 14 countries and I’m itching to see more of this amazing world!

If traveling isn’t one of your priorities in your 20s, I suggest you make it one ASAP! It will change your life. Most 20 somethings have minimal responsibilities that would prohibit them from seeing the world. Take that leap and venture out while you have the time. Not only have I been able to experience cultures other than my own, but traveling humbles me like no other. Seeing people from different walks of life who are comfortable and happy living with the bare minimum was a huge culture shock to me. In America, we’re so used to wanting to have the best career, nicest house or car, latest shoes and clothing and often forget about what’s important.

I’ve learned so much about myself by stepping out of my comfort zone. I can say I truly understand what makes me happy and it’s not having the latest and greatest! There’s something out there for everyone. Whether you like to hike, cruise to your destination, ski down a mountain, shop, live like a local or just lay out on a beach with crystal clear water (my personal fave), there are endless possibilities and an entire world to see.

A common misconception about traveling is it’s too expensive. Wrong! There are tons of sites that are all about purchasing plane tickets for discounted rates. The deals are out there, you just have to be diligent in your research. My biggest piece of advice is to just do it! See a travel deal? Book that flight and worry about the details later! ☺

Jasmine Hollis