TAKING THE PLUNGE

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So. This is one of those rare moments of clarity where I'm ready to take a leap towards my dream. Ever since my first flight overseas more than three years ago back to Vietnam with my family, I've always had a desire to travel independently. To be in a totally new, different and foreign country feels absolutely magical.

And I've missed that feeling almost daily. To put things into perspective, I am studying Commerce/Law which basically equates to 5 years of institutionalised learning and more or less the same routine - wake up, commute, go to class, commute, shower, dinner, study (minimally or nothing), then sleep and repeat. Of course, there will always be knicks and knacks and exciting moments and hobbies and lovely moments with lovely people to look forward to and brighten my days... but I'm not going to deny that at times, life feels monotonous. Escaping that monotony is a big catalyst for my desire to travel, because it is only through tackling that battle against monotony can we gain perspective, get out of our comfort zone and truly experience what the world has to offer.

Yes, I want to endeavour and marvel at the breadth and amazing sights that the world will offer me. And I am taking baby steps. Well, not so baby - maybe toddler steps; waddling towards my dream. I've decided that I will embark on this journey through going on an AIESEC exchange. Having been a Team Member for the past year and having grown from the experience, I feel really passionate about really getting out there and experiencing the product for myself. Not to mention, it makes perfect practical sense - committing myself to a project where I can make a social impact and a personal impact, whilst having accommodation and some food provided is beyond expectations. Realistically, when travelling, accommodation is what really empties the wallet so to have that covered for a good 6 weeks takes so much off the financial burden and money can be redirected elsewhere. And to add even one meal to that mix, though likely more if I stay with host families, I would be saving heaps and meeting amazing people and have a foundation to really get to know the families and the culture.

I don't know, I'm really curious: what inspires everyone else to travel?