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No matter how often I travel - and over the years I have been privileged to drag out my suitcases at least ten times a year - I always feel a sense of excitement at the thought of each new journey, be it a weekend in the U. S. or a more adventuresome foray to some far corner of the globe. Usually, there will be the planning which, in itself, entails a good measure of preparation, perusing the Internet or guidebooks, selecting hotels, transportation, checking special restaurants, figuring out seat assignments on seatguru.com ( god forbid, I get one that doesn't recline when I'm on a fifteen hour overnight from San Francisco to somewhere in southeast Asia ). Packing can be a major headache with the airlines adding fees now for a second bag, just at a time when I've booked a two week transatlantic to Europe! How many ways can one match an outfit?

For me, there is always so much anticipation, especially with a new destination. As the years begin to whirl by and I truly acknowledge entering "old age", I realize I may not have the opportunity to visit a place again. It becomes even more important to savor what makes each country special. To that end, I spend much time in advance preparation, seeking information on what I shouldn't miss, wanting to include some of the rare unusual gems one might come across, not just the big tourist attractions. Of course, for me, equally significant, are the chances to meet people everywhere I journey, the true wealth and resource of any destination. I want the chance for an exchange of cultures, for a chance to hear local music, to see the dance, to taste the food in the place I am visiting, to visit the markets, to see children playing. What makes each place special and different from my homeland?

Sometimes, the flight or train ride seems interminable. I am like a little child, saying to myself, "Are we there yet?", tapping my toes in anticipation. peering out the window as the airplane descends for my first glimpse of exotic India or the temple spires in Thailand or the meanderings of the Nile. It always seems to take forever.

Learn more about this author, Carmen Henesy.
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