As my then boyfriend (now husband) and I waited excitedly to go through security in June 2023 to go to Italy, I noticed in front of us was a single young man who appeared to be in his 20s dressed in what looked like military uniform. The closer we got to going through security, the more he turned around, each time with an increasingly despondent look in his eyes. I gazed in the same direction as him. There was a small family staring longingly at him, with tearful eyes and faces full of despair. My excitement quickly faded as I felt his pain. It had never occurred to me up until that moment that maybe not everyone is hopping on a plane to go have an adventure. I was reminded that what I am currently doing is a privilege and just how many factors stand in between some people and seeing the world.
$$$
This one’s a biggie. Money is a big factor in why many people feel they cannot travel. Right now, in 2025, with rising prices of many necessities but hardly any changes in pay, it’s understandable to see why people feel this is out of reach. It’s easy to sit back and say it’s possible this or that way. But in reality, if you aren’t in that situation, it’s easy to say anything. People are finding it hard to buy groceries. Plane tickets and hotel are simply off the table.
Time? What time??
This is going strictly off my friends around me. Lack of adequate time off is a pervasive issue. Many people have only 2 weeks (about 10-11 days) as of 2025. If you work 5 days a week, one week long vacation can wipe out half your time. If you decide to go somewhere that requires long travel time, that could potentially take up a day or two of your vacation. Not sure that’s something many people want.
Just wanna have FUN!
Some people just can’t travel for leisure. There are some people who need to travel because they are in the military and have no choice. There are some people who need to travel for work. It doesn’t sound all that bad on the surface, but it becomes time consuming, tiring, and also can be a strain on one’s family. Some people are traveling because they need to get to a funeral. Others are traveling for medical reasons. Traveling in the spring and summer months might lead you to believe that almost everyone is going away for a good time. But the truth is, not everyone has that opportunity. Doing is just for fun is a privilege itself.
Why do I mention all this? There was a time when I didn’t think I would be able to travel. The opportunities I’ve been blessed with are never lost on me. My mother never got the chance to see the world and neither did my grandparents. Whenever I visit a new and beautiful place, I always think of them. I always wish I could show them the world through my eyes. Their sacrifices have brought me here. Because of them, I will always remain grateful.
The opportunity to travel the world is a privilege. Seeing the world is a gift. As you continue to see and experience the world, become more open and understanding of those in the country you visit. Remember to have the same energy for those around us at home as well. Most importantly, lets remain grateful for another chance see this big beautiful world.