A Few Random Thoughts on Traveling
Years ago I was traveling by boat on Lake Titicaca, the largest lake in South America.
Our guide asked if we would like to visit a family that lived on a floating island made entirely of reeds. Of course, we said, “Sure.”
The family we visited, it turns out, was the family of our guide. They had lived on a floating island on the lake since before he and his brother were born. As part of the Uros community, their ancestral traditions and lifestyle had been passed down for years.
He told us that he and his brother had to row a boat two hours each day to go to school. That helped me put navigating around Los Angeles into a different perspective. (I used to complain about a thirty-minute walk to school.)
They say that travel is broadening, and I don’t think they’re talking about food (although indulgently dining while away from home can certainly broaden your waistline). But seeing how other people live, can open your eyes to a variety of new ways of living that are quite different from your own. Especially when experiencing how some people live outside of the United States. Some of these experiences seem quite wonderful, like living on a floating island. But travel also exposes you to hardships and challenges which can make me quite grateful for my own good fortune.
But there are many resourceful ideas – like building an island out of reeds. Years ago, I thought a person could make a living just by importing good ideas and unusual products from one country to another. I expect, some people do. In fact, entire brands have been built on that premise, most notably Pier 1 and World Market.
Talking about travel and seeing the world… Daveen and I like to explore by taking a cruise. You only have to unpack once, and the scenery comes to you. Next year we plan to take a cruise on the Danube River — both ways.
But for now, I’m happy to be at home, which is always my favorite place to come back to. I’m writing this on my cellphone, which is a lot easier to use than my laptop, especially when I’m lying on my bed, relaxing.
My adventure on this beautiful October day?
I’m going to take a walk around the block. See you next week.
Alan