How often have you come back from a trip, wondering where all the time went? There are 24-hours in a day no matter where you are – duh – but it sure seems like days are bit shorter when you’re on the go. I suppose that’s the effect of a new environment.
When traveling anywhere new, your body is in sensory overload. How can it not be? There are new sights, smells, foods, languages, and so on. You’d be asking a lot of yourself to recall each and every endearing moment. Sure, some moments will stand out from the others, but I’d prefer to remember everything if possible. That’s where a diary or travel log comes in handy.
Keeping a log of your days abroad will positively affect your travel experiences… unless something horrific happens… then my advice may be no good to you.
Anyways, the positives! In my opinion, the single greatest benefit derived from keeping a log is pace. It simply slows you down and gives your mind more time to reflect on the experiences at hand. Even if you just write at the end of each day, you’ll be detailing far more than you’ll (likely) ever remember.
The second greatest benefit is nostalgia. Every time I open my Semester at Sea diary, I can’t help but be figuratively swept away into my memories. It’s as if I can see myself sitting on the bow, enjoying the open ocean all over again. My diary serves as a catalyst to fond memories that lie just below the prominent ones. Honestly, if it weren’t for that diary, my mind would be in a cloud of confusion from trying to piece together all my memories from those 110 days.
A diary will serve as your greatest travel souvenir, no matter where you go. There are other benefits to be had from keeping a diary, but I’ll say no more. My goal is to inspire travel, through sharing glimpses of my experiences with you. So next time you’re packing for a trip, don’t forget paper and a pen. You’ll be glad you brought it along.
Written by Erich Wegscheider, DIWYY Columnist.
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