Travel when you are young

You’ve probably heard it a million times already: “Travel when you’re young!” And you’ve probably rolled your eyes, wondering - "where do I even get the money? What about my job? My career?"

Yep, I had those exact same debates with myself in my 20s. In fact, I didn’t even start traveling (solo) until my late 20s. But now, in my late 30s, I finally get why people say it. And honestly? I would say the same to anyone younger than me.

Travel changes with age. And oh boy, it really does.

My traveling history

My first solo trip was to London, UK, in my late 20s. Technically, it was a work trip, but let me tell you —it flipped a switch in my brain.

** Story Time **

Thanks to jet lag, I was wide awake at 5 AM. Instead of doom-scrolling, I decided to explore the city before work, and then again after work. In just one week, I squeezed every ounce of London I could...museums, parks, random neighborhoods, all fueled by the pure adrenaline of being somewhere new.

That taste of freedom, new culture, and yes, the thrill of being safe in a foreign place. OMG!! it was addictive. London gave me the travel bug.

Then came Singapore (for a conference talk), the USA, and Europe. Same pattern: wake up early, grab my backpack (always packed with snacks and water (my survival kit) ), and explore like a maniac. For me, the hotel was just a glorified locker and a place to crash for a few hours. I was all about adventure, and nothing could slow me down.

Travel realised me what kind of person I am. I prefer walks, nature, art museums , art shops , stationery and trying diffrent desserts.

My intinary is about places to eat, and then try to find a location where my fav movie, or series was filmed. I started optimizing in finding vegterian food, doing small talks, weather talks..I have endless stories from travel.

Travel in 30s

Fast forward to now: travel feels… different.

I don’t want jam-packed, stressful itineraries anymore. I want comfort. I want cozy stays, slower days, and zero pressure to “see it all.” If I miss a few landmarks? Totally fine. I’m not chasing checklists anymore.

I also avoid peak travel times like the plague...no long weekends, no crowded holiday seasons. Instead, I’ll happily take random weekdays off, sneak away in the off-season, and find hidden gems without elbowing through a crowd.

Basically, 20s me was an over-caffeinated explorer. 30s me is a chill traveler who values peace, good food, and unhurried mornings, infact sometimes I visit the same country, same hotel , same resturnant and just chill at my room. The repitive and boring has its own of peace.

Sometimes I am like - its okay...lets leave this place...what difference will it make. Eg: When I visited Paris first time..I didn't care about going to Effile tower.

Preference

The truth? Everyone’s travel style evolves. Energy levels shift, responsibilities pile up, maybe you’re traveling with a partner (or kids), and suddenly, the idea of doing “100 things in a day” feels like a nightmare.

So yes!! travel when you’re young. Use that energy and motivation to run around cities, try every food, and tick off wild adventures. Because as you get older, your style will change. Not worse, just different.

And honestly? Both versions of travel are beautiful.

Happy Traveling!!