Is traveling really one of the best forms of education? I think so. Traveling and exploring new places is one of the most enriching education activities that you will ever undertake. Whether it is a hobby or passion, or a way of life, when we travel, we get a chance to develop neural connections that would be impossible to facilitate by learning about the world in a history or geography class. Traveling also helps some people overcome their bias and hatred of other races, ethnicities, cultures, religions, etc.
Malcolm X’s trip to Mecca
Consider the story of Malcolm X. As the national spokesperson and the chief minister for the Nation of Islam, he espoused a doctrine that denounced all white Americans for the pain and hardship that they had reaped upon the African American race. He went so far as to give all white American’s the nickname “devils” and advocated for equality by “any means necessary,” even if that meant using violence.
However, Malcolm X’s views turned around 360 degrees after he made a pilgrimage to Mecca, which is required of any Muslim who can do so. When visiting and touring the Middle East, he was astonished to see that Islam was not a religion of just black and brown people, it was the religion of Whites, Blacks, Hispanics, Asians, etc. He experienced people of all walks of life, races and ethnicities gathered together to praise Allah.
His “education” was a profound one, as his hatred and bigotry was confronted and ultimately taken away by what he had experienced. He came back to America a changed man, no longer a prisoner to his past. This was evidenced by the sermons that he gave and the interviews that appeared in. Ultimately, his new stance on Islam and other issues with the Nation of Islam led to his untimely demise.
More thoughts on traveling as a form of education
Traveling never fails as the ultimate teacher. Whether you are traveling in your own country or another one, it has the potential to be a life-changing experience. The barriers that tear us apart are neutralized, and you get a chance to learn that all of humanity is just one big colorful family.
When traveling try taking a guided or historical tour of the area and you will be sure to learn more than you could in a semester-long college course. You will see your geopolitical awareness skyrocket, as you begin to appreciate the economic, social, political structures from across the globe.
Also, seeing the extreme poverty and despair that plagues some third world countries will show you how blessed you really are. It would take most people in these countries a lifetime to save up enough money to take one trip abroad, so being able to do so at will is a pleasure that only a small percentage of us can enjoy. With this realization, you can help the economic situation of ordinary citizens by simply eating at their restaurants, shopping in their stores, and tipping well.
So, the next time a friend asks you if you want to take a trip with them, jump at the chance. Not only will you learn a lot, but you will get a chance to live your best life and have tons of fun.
