The X-Factor of Traveling

What? Is that term ‘X-Factor’ even related to traveling? Hey guys, I am sure today’s title must have piqued your curiosity. In fact, I am very excited to write on this topic. It is somewhat special and close to my heart. The X Factor of Traveling! That unique factor which if added to our travels can make the experience truly extraordinary.

Traveling is fun for some and an experiential journey for many. When I used to travel with my parents my expectations were different as compared to now when I travel with my own child. When we plan a family vacation, we try to design it in such a way that there are takeaways for everyone.

If you have noticed in my travel posts, we love to travel with Nemit’s maternal and paternal grandmothers. It adds a special spark to our travel experience and makes our time spent together truly memorable.

So, what’s the X-factor of traveling? Is it fun or experience? Or the journey and the memories? Or is it that special spark you add which makes traveling memorable?

Let’s see what’s the x-factor of traveling and how it makes the whole experience extraordinary.

What is the X-Factor of Traveling?

I want to answer this question with this quote by Amelia E. Barr –

“The great difference between voyages rests not with the ships, but with the people, you meet on them.”

I hope you have guessed it now. But if not, let me spill the beans for you. What makes any travel experience extraordinary are not just the journey, destination, scenery, fun times, and adventure but also the ‘PEOPLE‘ we meet along the journey. The impression they leave on our memories is something that gives a completely new meaning to our experience. The kind of people you meet can turn your travel experience from ordinary to extraordinary.

I have mostly seen girls and boys traveling solo or in groups engaging and interacting with the locals & other travelers. It’s a great way to connect with interesting people and make friends. But, I have rarely seen families making such connections. Obviously, due to safety concerns & trust issues with strangers.

Does that mean we can’t offer such enriching experience of meeting & connecting with locals to our kids? Not exactly!

When you are traveling with kids, look around yourself. Ok, not too far! Look a little closer.

Do you see your cab driver who is also your guide for the time of your stay in their city/town/village? You spend maximum time with him. Encourage your child to interact with him. But, make sure you are not disturbing him while he’s driving. He can be your storyteller, narrating all the local interesting tales of that place.

What about the waiters who serve you at the restaurant. You loved their service, why not leave them a good word. Let your child say ‘Thank you’. They will love this gesture. Oh, and don’t forget the chef. If you really liked their signature dish, call the chef and appreciate his work.

Who else do we meet on our travels? The hotel staff or if you are staying at a private property then the owner, manager or the caretaker of the property. Talk to them and tell them how much you liked their special attention. They can recommend you some really cool local places to check out.

You worry about your family’s safety and stay away from interacting much with the locals. But your kid can definitely talk & mingle with the local kids. They are not a threat. Such an amazing way for their social development. Isn’t it?

Think about it.

What if all these people you meet on your vacation do not treat you well? Or your experience is not very great. There’s a chance that it may spoil your whole vacation mood.

Whereas, when you meet such loving and caring people, it makes your whole experience enriching. And, that is why I feel for any travel, the people we meet along our journey are the X factor that makes the whole experience extraordinary. We never leave an opportunity to say thanks to such people who add so much value to our vacation.

What do you think about it guys? I would love to read your thoughts on this. Write them down in the comments below. And, don’t forget to share this post with your friends and family.

That’s all for today, see you guys on Monday with the second last post of this travel series.

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Today is Day 24 of #BlogchatterA2Z and the letter of the day is ‘X’. My theme for the challenge is ‘Traveling with kids’ & I have chosen X for X-Factor of Traveling. 

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