My mother likes to tell me that a big house won’t ever compare to a travel experience.

And I do find that true.

As of now, I’m 22 years old (almost 23). I’ve been to 12 countries and lived in two. Traveling has given me more than material things ever could, which is an abundance of memories and knowledge. But more importantly, an appreciation of the different cultures around the world.

I started to travel when I was just a baby, with my mom(a traveler), taking me to different places in the Philippines. Then, we moved to the Sultanate of Oman, in 1995.

Living in another country

Growing up in a uniquely different country really changed the way I think about these things and how I interact with people. You learn to adjust to hearing the Fajr (daily Muslim prayer) around 5:00 a.m. You savor the taste of Shawarma and Biryani. And most importantly, you learn to respect and adjust to other people’s customs like the Ramadan.

You learn to see things from their perspective and you begin to appreciate these differences. In the end, I’ve learned to love the people, the food, the places, and the culture.

Travels to other countries

Apart from living in Oman and the Philippines, I’ve traveled to a mixture of places with different cultures.

In Europe, I’ve visited France, Belgium, Germany, and Italy.

In Asia, I went to Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong, India and U.A.E.

In Africa, I traveled to Egypt.

I was able to meet different people and learn about their cultures. These countries all shaped the way I think and behave today. I do believe that when you visit and live in another country, you take a piece of that country moving forward. Whether it’s love for a certain delicacy or the way you look at certain things.

Travel, travel, travel

In a few months, I will be turning 23. I will continue to have a growing list of priorities but traveling will always be something that will be at the top of that list.

It’s never too late to travel.

It’s never too late to learn and appreciate different cultures.

It’s never too late to start making memories that you will be able to keep with you throughout your lifetime.

I suggest you start traveling and if possible, living in another country. It truly opens up the way you act and think. It brings you out of your comfort zone and you also learn more about yourself.