VACATION SPOTLIGHT
As we wave goodbye to the days of lockdown, we are focusing on a “new normal” in travel. But what does that mean? Several recent industry surveys report an increase in travel planning positively affecting our mental health. Travel is good for your health?! That’s all I need to hear—sign me up!
DO SOMETHING THAT IS GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH
TRAVEL
Now don’t get me wrong, I know we all stopped traveling for the health and safety of ourselves and our fellow humans, and that it was extremely important. But as a result, our mental health struggled a lot during quarantine. Surveys suggest that over 70% of our adult population feels better having something to look forward to—like a trip. Even if we’re planning travel two years from now, our brain gets that feel good surge when we have something fun to be excited for. Travel opens our minds. When we take ourselves outside of our comfortable box and travel somewhere new, our minds experience a sort of freedom. The brain is a muscle, and it needs a workout just like other muscles. Doing things like reading and crossword puzzles aren’t bad, but new experiences workout your brain muscle even better. When traveling you’ll be learning new things, following directions on new roads, navigating crowds, remembering your room number. And that’s just the beginning. When you visit a new country, you experience their foods and drinks, cultural experiences, beliefs, traditions, and their history. Shaking up our normal way of life, even just for a few days, is good for us. Not everyone is necessarily ready to travel the way they once did, but I can personally attest to the WANT, the NEED, to travel. Our office has been busier than we’ve ever been with future planning. Our Explorers want that trip to look forward to. Some have taken up new types of travel. Health and wellness lovers have been
booking stays at resorts with hiking, biking, and yoga retreats. Others have taken to the seeing the National Parks (road trips or independent adventures). And more than you could guess can’t wait to get back on a cruise ship. Those who aren’t quite ready to hop on a large oceangoing vessel are still getting on the water with U.S. or European River Cruises. Wherever you want to go–Go! However you want to get there–Do it. Travel! Start planning a trip now—it’s good for your health. Amanda Vallone is the co-owner of Roseborough Travel Agency in DeLand. She is passionate about helping people experience the world around them. She was awarded and or recognized for the 40 under 40, President’s Excellence in Business, Future Leaders in Travel, Best Travel Advisor, and Best of the Best awards over the last 10 years.
Your Dream Vacation is Our Priority. 140 East Indiana Avenue, DeLand, FL 32724 386-734-7245 • www.roseboroughtravel.com • info@roseboroughtravel.com 28
Aging Times Magazine | September 2021
