A MEANINGFUL TRAVELERS’ STARTER KIT; after a description of my own travels and life experiences, including the Experiences of a world Traveler, I will add a 7 step guide to transformational, purpose-driven travel. Of course, you can skip down to the travel guide or go to some of my articles about specific trips and travel logistics but I do hope you would find interest in the first half of this article. It is meant to be both informational and personal. First of all, here is a synopsis of what my roamreverie.com website is all about. And here is a link to my website profile if you want to learn about me first:
On this website, you will find articles concerning:
Travel experiences for solo travelers because I traveled as a solo backpacker for about 10 years before I got married.
Travel logistics for budget-friendly family vacation planning because that has been my experience for travel these LAST 10 years.
Best travel destinations in 2026 because that is a topic we are all looking forward to in the months to come.
How to travel sustainably in 2026 because my wife and I are approaching senior years with children who are grown and who are as addicted to travel as we are (my bad).
Top travel trends to watch in 2025-2026 because it ia always interesting to compare where travelers are going now and where they are going in the coming months.
How to create a travel blog in 2026 because that is exactly what I am doing here and I do want to share my experiences with everyone who is interested in this niche and they CAN do it too.
Digital nomad lifestyle tips because that is what I had to research for my own lifestyle in my early blogging career.
Best travel gear to pack for both solo travel and family travel because I have experience in both types of travel and have acquired handy products for all sorts of trips.
Best apps for travel planning because I have my favorite travel apps placed in my travel apps field on my cell phone since they are the most handy to me and I want to show them off.
Travel Hacks for budget travelers because I am mostly a mid-range traveler now that I have a family to consider when I am exploring transportation and hotel options.
Unique travel experiences for 2026 because I have several backstories on this website because I believe they can be entertaining, inspiring, and informative to anyone who may consider similar excursions.
What I See from Mountain to Sea.
All this I shall share for all those who do care.
roamreverie.com meant for father, children, and mom.
Traveling smarter and wandering deeply, and engaging yourself in different cultures is a massive life changer with great memories that you talk about all of your life. There’s something special about embracing all those differences rather than shying away from them. Experiences knock down cultural stereotypes and open up new worlds of understanding. Suddenly, you see the world through colors you never knew existed. India is a perfect example with its multifarious flowers and shrines everywhere. You leave the airport and find yourself in a completely strange environment, struck with an onset of culture shock. It is true sensory overload. You have all the sounds, dust in the air, all the people, white cows eating food scraps in the streets, all the aromas, traffic is chaotic and loud, and the heat is bearing down on you. Shoot, I’ve even rubbed shoulders with those big humped white cows in alleyways of old Delhi because there was very little space between the cow and the buildings. But the colors are what I paid attention to the most. I was amazed with the flowers and street shrines everywhere. For about one hour after exiting the airport, I was confused as to whether it was morning or evening. The dust in the air contributed to my confusion. After one day I was acclimated to my new environment but I really was in a misty mind haze for quite awhile.
Travel empowers minds to help us develop personal growth through world wide connections.
Travel smarter, wander deeply:
The travel apps I keep in my Travel apps field on my android are the ones I have found to be very trustworthy and useful for my travel needs. You can click on this link here to read about those apps.
Travel is a training ground for life skills you won’t pick up in any classroom. You’re out there making quick decisions when plans go awry, communicating across language barriers, and solving problems on the fly when Google Maps leads you down a path that isn’t a road. Google Maps did that to me twice in GrandCayman. One time it lead me to a river showing me a route along the river towards George Town but it lead me down a dirt road which was blocked off with a large chain link fence and gate with an industrial site on the other side of the locked gate. Another time Google Maps led me down a residential street that lead, also to a large chain link fence and locked gate, but this time there was a construction site on the other side of the gate. I had to use my own sense of direction to find my way to the correct road towards my destination. A third example is from Paris. I was leading my family around in circles because I had my face in the cell phone trying to make sense of Google Maps which did not have a good signal. After a good half hour or so, I looked up. Lo and behold, the golden dome on top of Hôtel des Invalides was right in front of us about six streets away.! There is only one building with a golden dome on it so it was obvious which way we had to walk.
Travel’s got a knack for shaking things up, breaking down old barriers, and sparking some serious self-reflection. It’s like looking at yourself in a new mirror every day. The moment you step out of your comfort zone, you start seeing the world—and yourself—in a whole new light. Maybe you discover a hidden passion for photography while wandering through the bustling streets of Tokyo. I must admit that I have gotten addicted to posting travel photos to Instagram and Pinterest and videos to YouTube. I have not yet splurged on acquiring a more professional camera. My cell phone and laptop seem sufficient for my needs so far. If I go for a more professional route, then of course I will look into the camera options. (Take note National Geographic, I promise I will purchase a professional camera it you hire me.)
Or you learn more about patience in the never-ending queues at airport security. I know that I have had to develop my “asi es” philosophy in order to survive the airport security ordeals. Every year I consider signing up for the TSA fast track through security but it does cost money so I have not yet made the decision to do that. So far, I have decided that it is worth it to just endure the security checkpoints rather than pay the extra cost of fast track status. Whatever your travel experiences are, these moments pile up and, bit by bit, shape a stronger, more insightful version of you.
Every time I have had to go through Airport Security, I used to feel that I would retire from travel. Now I just slow down my mind and take each step as it comes with the attitude of “Asi es.” I can get through the ordeal a little easier that way. Leaving airports in other countries also can pose similar issues. Just find the sign you need and follow it while ignoring the touts or waving them off. Knowing how to say “I do not need it” in the native language helps a lot. The touts will often stop following you because they will immediately get the impression that you have been in the country for a while.
In sharing my Experiences of a world Traveler, I hope to inspire others to explore the beauty of our planet.
From Beijings' walls where old stones gleam I chase the dawn, a fleeting dream. From Beijings' gates my heart takes flight Through storm and sun, through day and night. Through clouds that bridge the vast and blue Each mile a whisper bright and new. The railways hum, the oceans roar Each border crossed, I crave one more. Till Singapores' soft lights appear And journeys end, yet call me near. Till Singapores' wild heat draws near Adventures' song still rings clear. Photo by MAC with wife posing at Marina Bay.
Check the expiration date on your passport. Got six months still? Then book that trip!
Sense of direction and physical map reading were always my number one tools for navigating myself around cities before the advent of smart phones and tablets. These are the skills that make you adaptable. As a travel blogger, you must be able to utilize intuition as well as a travel app. Using our own senses to find our way to places can build our awareness of surroundings, strengthens our memory, and develops problem solving skills. I mean REALLY! Why was I walking around with my face in Google maps while in Paris? I have traveled to hundreds of cities with only a guidebook map and my own eyes before the advent of smartphones. And I rarely got lost!
You are also joining a worldwide network of people who get what it’s like to have wanderlust in your veins. Before I met Farida, I always traveled solo, keeping to myself as much as I could. Even so, it was very nice to meet a Vaisnava ISKCON devote while I was standing in the Howrah Train Station (in Calcutta) in a daze, trying to bring myself to sufficient awareness to find my way north to Mayapur Nabadwip. He suggested we share a taxi there since he actually lived at the ISKCON Temple there. That was my very destination and half price taxi fare sounded wonderful to me so I readily took him up on his offer. Meeting locals and fellow travelers is often a wonderful boon, even for dedicated solo travelers like I was before I met Farida.
The following photo was taken on the Highline Walkway park that stretches through the Chelsea neighborhood in NYC.
You will leave your comfort zone when traveling but you will gain personal growth experience.
Travel isn’t always smooth sailing—there are language mix-ups, missed flights, and the constant challenge of sticking to a budget when everything looks so darn tempting. But each hiccup is a masterclass on resilience. When plans fall apart, that’s your cue to pivot and rally. Overcoming those setbacks makes the view from the top of the mountain that much sweeter. To tell the truth, I would have to admit that I ALWAYS spend more that I expect when traveling. That fact is just part of my constant travel experience. I know there are apps that are supposed to help with travel budgeting but you will never see any in my travel app field.
Exploring the world naturally brings about a sense of freedom that’s well beyond the checklist of must-sees. It’s about slowing down in places you didn’t even plan to stop and feeling the joy in unexpected discoveries. This break from the grind can boost your mood, slice through stress, and leave you feeling lighter than ever. Getting a little lost sometimes or getting stuck in the rain has several times added flavor to my experiences and that is NOT a bad thing.
Sometimes, you hit the road to lose yourself, and you end up stumbling upon a piece of who you really are. That’s the beauty of it. Experiences abroad have a way of reigniting old flames of passion or maybe even uncovering new ones. Every experience, every moment spent wandering, contributes to shaping and reshaping your life’s purpose. It’s like writing your own never-ending story, with you as the main character. I guess I found a piece of who I really was then when I arrived into Taratung because I ended up following Farida when I first met her. I never continued on to Bali which was my destination. I followed Farida to Padang Sidempuan and stayed there visiting her for one month (with a short excursion to Bukitinggi.)
So, yes, slowing down and exploring unexpected places and discoveries will truly add spontaneous adventure and memories to what was a once well thought out itinerary, but is now a day to day experience. My day to day experience in Padang Sidempuan led to my getting married to Farida. It not only changed my well planned out itinerary but it also completely changed my life.
As a travel blogger you will have to keep up on your websites’ health and performance. I work with WordPress so this tutorial is for websites that work with WordPress:
Install and activate Site Kit
In WordPress, go to Plugins → Add New and search for “Site Kit by Google”.
Click Install, then Activate; after activation, a “Site Kit” menu will appear in your left‑hand admin menu.
Click Site Kit → Dashboard; you’ll see a prompt or button to start setup.
Click Start Setup and sign in with your Google account when prompted.
Allow the requested permissions so Site Kit can verify site ownership and show metrics in WordPress.
(Search Console is always connected as part of the basic setup, because Site Kit requires it to work.)
In the setup flow, check the option to connect Google Analytics when you see it, or later go to Site Kit → Settings → Connect More Services → Analytics → Set up.
Choose your Google account, then pick an existing Analytics account, property, and web data stream, or let Site Kit create a new GA4 account/property/stream for you.
Confirm the selections and click Complete Setup (or similar) so Site Kit adds the GA4 tracking tag to your site automatically.
Tip: Analytics data is not retroactive; you’ll only see stats once traffic has been collected after this step.
Open Site Kit → Settings → Analytics and confirm that “Status: Connected” or similar appears and that a web data stream is listed.
Visit your site in another browser tab and then, in Analytics at analytics.google.com, check the Realtime report to confirm visits are being recorded (Realtime is only visible there, not in Site Kit).
Once data has been collected for at least a day or two, the Site Kit dashboard becomes your high‑level performance view.
In WordPress, go to Site Kit → Dashboard.
Review the key Analytics metrics shown there, typically for the last 28 days by default:
Total unique visitors (users)
Top pages and posts by traffic
Average time on page
Traffic sources and search queries (from Search Console)
You can change the date range using the selector at the top of the dashboard to compare different periods
That will get even the least experienced blogger (as I was) through the Site Kit set up. Now, if you choose to join the free tier of Wealthy Affiliates, one of the first Core Training Lessons is about setting up Site Kit and how to use it. You can scroll down below the AI generated photo of Mutianyu Great Wall to find the link to Wealthy Affiliates if you should choose to do so.
Anyway, in conclusion, If you should find yourself all of a sudden craving some adventure in some far flung place (like Mutianyu section of the Great Wall), you can consider checking out the Get Your Guide website;
The link below will take you to the Paris Activities Page of Get Your Guide (click here for Get Your Guide review). If you suddenly got the urge to travel from Beijing to Singapore, you can check out Get Your Guide to book activities in both places. We had our booking for a visit to Mutianyu Great Wall which is why we visited Beijing before moving on to Singapore. Of course, you can type into the search field the name of any city you are interested in and you will be brought there. If any one were to book any activities here, I may receive a small commission but you would not pay anything extra. My commission would come from the companies’ side of the transaction:
The masks being displayed in the following photo can be seen at the NYC Museum of Natural History:
And now for the 7 step guide to transformational purpose-driven travel that I promised everyone:
I changed. I used to travel just to check locations off from my wishlist.
I learned. I am now traveling to return home changed, after experiencing adventurous and sustainable travel.
This starter kit gives you simple steps you can use to plan trips that create stories, growth, and lifelong memories. All the photos we are taking are now the embellishments for our newly gained knowledge.
Step one; Define your travel intention.
Before you plan your itinerary ask:
What shift in consciousness am I hoping this trip will bring me?
The experience of visiting new destinations will be imprinted into our memories for the rest of our
lives. Culture shock, inspiration, reflection, insight, will leave a mark on our consciousness.
What do I want to learn, feel, or understand?
Joy and excitement are often found in the simple moments during a trip. A sunset or full moon in a
new setting or connecting with locals can boost creativity, cognitive flexibility, empathy, and cultural
awareness. We can truly enrich our minds through travel.
Do I want rest, discovery, or challenge?
Vacations for rest will emphasize low key activities like spa treatments with wellness-oriented amenities like massages and yoga sessions. Main purpose is to reduce stress and experience fully refreshed.
Vacations for discovery will emphasize exploration and learning about new cultures and places. Main purpose is to broaden our knowledge and expand our world view.
Vacations for Challenges will emphasize physical and mental stamina like hiking mountains or immersive expeditions. Main purpose will be a sense of accomplishment and resilience.
Step two; choose experience over destinations.
Rather than asking, “where are we going?”, ask “what experience are we craving?”
Let us choose:
Culinary immersion, Spiritual retreat, Adventure challenge, Cultural deep dive, Silence and solitude, Creative inspiration.
Culinary immersion = hands-on cooking lessons or food focused tours with local guides or chefs. We would connect deeply with a places’ culture through its cuisine and the people who create it. Example:
El Pretexto in Puerto Rico. This is a “Agro Turismo culinary farm lodge”. Farm to table meals, cooking classes with local chefs, visits to fishing villages, wine/rum tastings, and coffee plantations. Reservations are a must. It is located at Bo. Cercadillo Carr. 715 Cayey Puerto Rico. They have several villas of several styles and can be booked through Airbnb.
Spiritual retreat = dedicated periods set aside for reflection, meditation, and general relaxation from the daily grind of life. Supportive environments in natural settings or all inclusive resorts are meant to encourage self discovery with the nourishment of mind, body, and spirit. Example:
Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in Massachusetts USA. This is a mid range resort at around $450 for a two night stay in 2025-2026. The price includes the meals, workshops and classes. It is in southern Massachusetts at 57 Interlaken Rd. Stockbridge MA.
Adventure challenge = active travel experiences meant to push a travelers’ physical and mental limits in demanding locations. This could include mountain climbing, cross country skiing, white rapid canoeing, multi-sport journeys, etc. Example:
Senda Monteverde Hotel in Costa Rica. This is a boutique lodge located in the Monteverde cloud forest. It is a comfortable place with WiFi. Breakfast is included and meals are locally sourced and bread, nut butters, and chutneys made on site. There is a zip-line, wildlife tours, and hiking through the cloud forest reserve. Prices will be around US $370 a night in 2025-2026. Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve is about three and a half hours northwest of San José.
Cultural deep dive = immersing ourselves in the daily life and traditions of the community we are visiting. We can join in the celebrations, learning a bit of their language, cooking local meals, learning their dances. This is a vacation of respectful interaction where learning about customs and etiquette is as important as sightseeing. Example:
Fariyas Hotel in Mumbai India. This is located in the historic Colada district of Mumbai. The hotel has a vintage character with the addition of modern comfort. This hotel is surrounded by heritage sites, local markets, and Mumbais’ waterfront. The whole neighborhood and the hotel itself has a culturally rich atmosphere. Prices are only around US $100 a night.
Silence and solitude = the withdrawal from the constant noise and demands of everyday life. This is the search for deep rest and personal reflection. Minimal interactions, limits on digital distractions, and immersion into tranquil natural surroundings are key. Example:
Rolling Meadows Retreat in Maine USA. Vegetarian meals are included. A serene, technology free property is offered for deep relaxation and silence in beautiful woodland atmospheres. There is a minimum stay of two nights with prices of about US $190 a night. It is located at 151 Cushing Road Friendship Maine.
Creative inspiration = getaways that will spark our imaginations and nurture our personal artistic growth. Creative workshops led by experienced artists are a featured option as well as are mountain retreats, coastal villages, and art communities. Examples:
Villa Lena Tuscany Italy. Here you will enjoy the extremely beautiful landscape of Northwest Italy while immersed in an active artist residency. Painters, writers, designers, sculptors, and various other types of artists gather here for as many days or weeks that they are able between April and October. Hotel guests can observe and/or participate in any of the artist workshops. It is located at Via Comunale di Toiano 25 Palaia. Rooms start at around US $250.
Stanford Inn by the Sea Mendocino California. This is a small eco-resort overlooking the ocean. Art experts lead “playshops” for collage art, painting, writing, and open studio time for those who want to work on their own projects. It is located at 44850 Comptche Ukiah Road. Prices average at around US $375 a night. Prices fluctuate a lot between seasons.
Step three; curate a meaningful travel itinerary.
This itinerary would include:
One challenge.
One moment of stillness.
One cultural connection.
One personal reflection activity.
One meaningful meal or local food experience.
Step four; write a journal for before the trip and after the trip.
Before would include; Why this trip?, What am I hoping to feel?, What do I want to leave behind?
After would include; What surprised us?, What changed us?, What will I bring into my life at home?
I have 20, 21, or 22 journals that I wrote describing my research, my choices for flights and hotel stays, my experiences while on the trips, and my return home from each trip. Studies show that travelers who document their travel planning and experiences report around 40% higher levels of satisfaction and memory from their vacations. I took 5 of my journals and created 5 chapters for a book manuscript. Will I ever publish it as a book? I do not know but I do hope I can someday.
Step five; Travel light and Travel smarter.
Recommended and meaningful travel essentials:
Minimalist but durable backpack.
Light weight travel journal.
Portable charger.
Reliable travel insurance if the trip is more than a few days.
VPN for safe browsing.
One pair of trusted shoes.
Compact camera or smartphone stabilizer.
Step six; slow down:
Slow travel to wander deeply:
Stay at least five nights in the place of your choice.
Spend at least one day without plans.
Eat where the locals eat.
Meet craftsmen, guides, and elders when possible.
Walk everywhere you can.
Step seven; Bring the experience home:
True travel does not end when you land at your home airport.
Revisit your journal.
Create a small place in your home showcasing the trip.
Cook a dish you discovered.
Print the most meaningful photos you took.
Share your story with loved ones, or like I do, create a website or blogs for the public.
Thus, you have it. You can use this guide for your next trip. You can also visit my site; https://www.roamreverie.com for more deep travel resources, travel gear, travel tools, and your random tidbits of inspiration.
This AI generated image of the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall shows a misty atmosphere because we visited there on a misty day. This image is very true to life. I am very impressed with it although the tourists are missing. I just realized that! I should have included in the prompt that several tourists including my wife and sons should be included.
The link above will take you to my Facebook page which is actually in its infancy. I am very disorganized with Facebook because I have three feeds there and it is hard to keep up or engage properly on any of them. Well, you guys can go ahead and check it out if you do not mind exploring some confusing content.
The photo below was taken from the large park area between Marina Bay Sands and the Merlion fountain:
“TRAVEL IS THE ONLY THING YOU BUY THAT MAKES YOU RICHER.
(Anonymous)
Here is a bit of a FAQ section for an article about the necessary steps to create a travel bloggers website.
FAQ: How to Create a Travel Blogger Website
1. What is the first step to creating a travel blogger website? The first step is choosing a niche and a memorable blog name. Defining your focus (such as adventure travel, solo female travel, or food and culture) helps you attract a specific audience and stay consistent with your content.
2. Do I need technical skills to start a travel blog? Not necessarily. Most modern website builders like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace offer templates and drag‑and‑drop tools that make it easy to set up your site without coding knowledge.
3. Which platform is best for travel blogs? WordPress.org is often preferred by bloggers who want flexibility, SEO control, and scalability. Platforms like Wix or Squarespace are great for beginners seeking simplicity and built‑in design features.
4. How do I choose a domain name and hosting provider? Pick a domain name that’s short, relevant, and easy to remember. For hosting, reliable providers like SiteGround, Bluehost, or Hostinger offer plans optimized for blogs with strong uptime and customer support
5. What essential pages should my travel blog include? Every travel blog should have a homepage, about page, blog section, contact page, and privacy policy. You can also create destination guides, packing lists, or travel resources as your site grows.
6. How can I make my travel blog look professional? Use a clean, mobile‑responsive design, high‑quality images, and consistent branding. Installing plugins for SEO, security, and analytics will help improve performance and credibility.
7. What kind of content should I publish first? Start with 3–5 cornerstone posts that reflect your travel niche, such as destination guides or personal experiences. Focus on storytelling, detailed information, and practical travel tips to engage readers.
8. How can I monetize my travel blog? Common methods include affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, digital products (like itineraries or e‑books), and display ads. Building consistent traffic is key before pursuing monetization seriously.
9. How do I promote my travel blog? Use social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube, as well as SEO optimization to attract organic traffic. Networking with other bloggers and joining travel communities can also help grow your audience.
As a concluding statement,, I would like to add that travel and life experiences are intertwined in ways that enrich our understanding of the world. Engaging in travel not only broadens one’s horizons but also fosters personal growth and cultural appreciation. Each journey presents opportunities to encounter diverse perspectives, enhancing our ability to empathize with others. Ultimately, the lessons learned from travel contribute significantly to our life experiences, shaping who we are and how we connect with the global community.
18 thoughts on “Travel and Life Experiences; 5 points about travel.”
Travel has been one of the most transformative forces in my life, especially solo travel. A few years ago, I spent several months moving through Southeast Asia on my own, and the clarity and confidence I gained from those experiences still influence me today. There’s something deeply grounding about stepping into the unknown and learning to trust your instincts day after day. I found that the real growth often came not from the places themselves, but from the stillness in between the quiet train rides, the long walks through unfamiliar cities, the shared smiles with strangers. These are the moments that stay with you and subtly reshape how you see the world and yourself.
Your comment here brings back scenes for my travels before I got married. I do get the chance for solo travel every few years and, as much as I love traveling with my wife, the solo trips let me do it my way100%. Thank you for the comment. MAC.
This post really resonates with me! Your description of the sensory overload in India is spot-on – the dust, the sounds, the vibrant colors… it’s a shock to the system, but a beautiful one. And I completely agree about travel being a training ground for life skills. Those Google Maps mishaps? I’ve been there! It’s humbling to realize you can’t always rely on technology and have to tap into your own resourcefulness. I love your point about adapting and embracing the “Asi es” attitude, especially in stressful situations like airport security. It’s a great reminder to slow down and be present. The idea of travel shaking things up and sparking self-reflection is so true. It’s like holding a mirror up to yourself in different contexts, revealing new perspectives and hidden strengths. And that connection with fellow travelers – that’s priceless! Your story about meeting the ISKCON devotee in Calcutta is a testament to the unexpected connections you make on the road. Thanks for sharing your experiences and insights! It’s inspiring me to embrace the chaos and beauty of travel even more.
Hello, thank you for the very nice comment. I am so happy my article was somewhat interesting and appreciated I have so much to write about, it is hard to know where to continue. I have to connect with people by posting articles that can really help people. Well, comments like yours give me hope I can be successful. Thank you. MAC
Travel is expensive, but you are right, it does make you richer. Richer in memories and experiences that you can’t get by staying a home and saving. Life is about living, so it is important to save and be able to enrich your life with travel experiences, as the memories stay with you for a lifetime.
It also gives you a sense of freedom when you climb onto that plane for the next unknown adventure. And after all what is life without that next destination to look forward to?
Hello Michel, thank you for the nice comment. Yes, travel is expensive which is why I travel only 2-3 weeks every year now instead of 2-3 months like I used to do before I had children. I love travel so I just do what I can when I can. As I always say; work,save money, travel, repeat. MAC.
What a beautifully written reflection! I really enjoyed how you captured both the chaos and the charm of travel—the dust, the cows in Delhi, the wrong turns with Google Maps, and the golden surprises like spotting Hôtel des Invalides. It’s so true that travel teaches lessons no classroom can, from patience at security lines to problem-solving when plans fall apart. I also loved your point about stepping away from the phone and trusting intuition—it’s amazing how much more present we become when we truly look around. Thank you for reminding us that every challenge on the road is really just part of the adventure, shaping us into stronger and more open versions of ourselves.
Hey Michael Cicchi, Recently, I visited your YouTube channel. Your “”travel”-related content is just amazing. I am impressed. 💝🔥 Thanks for providing such beautiful content. I see that you put a lot of effort into creating the content of the channel. But I saw that the engagement on your channel is very low. Most of the videos have few views and very little traffic. I was very sad to see it. I researched your channel. After researching, I found that your channel’s videos do not use good thumbnails, good titles, good descriptions, and high-ranking video keywords. Correcting these mistakes is called SEO optimization. Video SEO is the real reason why your channel isn’t growing. If you don’t use good SEO, your channel will never expand. Video is very important for SEO channel ranking. If you want we can discuss this in more detail; this is my email (shuvoahammed5656@gmail.com). Thanks.
Michael – I am also a travel enthusiast who enjoys getting out of comfort zone. Even if you have everything planned for a trip, you will encounter challenges. After arriving in Cairo, Egypt, I flagged down a taxi to take me to my hotel. Unbeknownst to me, the driver only knew how to speak Arabic.
However, I managed to explain to him which hotel I needed to go to. Frankly, language barriers are some of the most common challenges anyone will face while traveling. Despite this, I thoroughly enjoyed my vacation in Egypt. I agree with your sentiment that exploring unexpected places adds spontaneity. Go off the beaten path every so often.
Hello Godwin, thank you for the very interesting comment. Yes, the language barrier thing is quite a nuisance but I have been using Google Translate more and more while traveling. I guess there are translating apps and devices now but I have not yet started to look for which are the most useful. I have lots of time for that though, since my next trip is to NYC again and after that, to Vancouver Canada again.English is spoken pretty good in those places????. MAC.
Really enjoyed reading this, it reminded me how much travel has shaped me over the years, even in ways I didn’t fully appreciate at the time. I’m not a full-time traveler by any means, but the trips I have taken ended up teaching me more than I expected. The little things stick with you: getting lost because your map app glitched, figuring out how to communicate when you don’t speak the language, or even just slowing down long enough to let a new place change you a bit.
Your perspective on intention really hit home. The older I get, the more I realize travel isn’t about checking places off a list, it’s about who you become along the way. Your guide captures that better than most “travel tips” I see online. Great read.
Hello Jason, thank you for the very nice comment. Yes, I used to put little green pins on Google Maps then I would visit those pinned places so I could remove the little green pins. But now I want to create my travel blog website to help cultivate cultural understanding and describe true to life travel experiences. So, now when I travel, I sure better LEARN something. Anyway, thank you again for the great comment.MAC.
I just read through the Travel and Life Experiences section on Roam Reverie, and I really enjoyed how the author blends personal backstories with practical travel insights. The posts cover everything from unforgettable road trips and city explorations to cultural discoveries and tips for digital nomads, which makes the whole travel experience feel both relatable and inspiring. I especially liked how the content encourages meaningful travel that’s more than just checking destinations off a list. I’m curious, when you reflect on all your journeys, which destination ended up changing your perspective on travel the most, and why?
Hello Hanna, thank you for the nice comment. I would have to say that my first North Sumatra excursion has to be the destination that most changed my perspective because, not only did I end up getting married because of that trip, but also, that is the destination I most long to return to, possibly for retirement some day. Thanks again for the great comment. MAC.
I absolutely love your focus on the beauty of missed moments and imperfect plans. In a world that’s so obsessed with ‘doing it all’ for the social media feed, it’s refreshing to hear someone champion the freedom of just being there. How do you mentally navigate that shift from feeling ‘behind schedule’ to realizing that the detour actually is the trip?
Hello Leah, thank you for the great comment. Answering the question, I would have to admit that at first, I am quite annoyed at any such delays or plan changes. But then I always have to stop and think about the experiences I AM having. I am still in a new place and I am still experiencing new things. If i do not obsess over the original plan, I can then reframe the days’ itinerary and go from there. Anyway, that is a basic answer, I do not want to take to much time here so, thank you again for the great comment. MAC.
Travel has been one of the most transformative forces in my life, especially solo travel. A few years ago, I spent several months moving through Southeast Asia on my own, and the clarity and confidence I gained from those experiences still influence me today. There’s something deeply grounding about stepping into the unknown and learning to trust your instincts day after day. I found that the real growth often came not from the places themselves, but from the stillness in between the quiet train rides, the long walks through unfamiliar cities, the shared smiles with strangers. These are the moments that stay with you and subtly reshape how you see the world and yourself.
Your comment here brings back scenes for my travels before I got married. I do get the chance for solo travel every few years and, as much as I love traveling with my wife, the solo trips let me do it my way100%. Thank you for the comment. MAC.
This post really resonates with me! Your description of the sensory overload in India is spot-on – the dust, the sounds, the vibrant colors… it’s a shock to the system, but a beautiful one. And I completely agree about travel being a training ground for life skills. Those Google Maps mishaps? I’ve been there! It’s humbling to realize you can’t always rely on technology and have to tap into your own resourcefulness. I love your point about adapting and embracing the “Asi es” attitude, especially in stressful situations like airport security. It’s a great reminder to slow down and be present. The idea of travel shaking things up and sparking self-reflection is so true. It’s like holding a mirror up to yourself in different contexts, revealing new perspectives and hidden strengths. And that connection with fellow travelers – that’s priceless! Your story about meeting the ISKCON devotee in Calcutta is a testament to the unexpected connections you make on the road. Thanks for sharing your experiences and insights! It’s inspiring me to embrace the chaos and beauty of travel even more.
Hello, thank you for the very nice comment. I am so happy my article was somewhat interesting and appreciated I have so much to write about, it is hard to know where to continue. I have to connect with people by posting articles that can really help people. Well, comments like yours give me hope I can be successful. Thank you. MAC
Travel is expensive, but you are right, it does make you richer. Richer in memories and experiences that you can’t get by staying a home and saving. Life is about living, so it is important to save and be able to enrich your life with travel experiences, as the memories stay with you for a lifetime.
It also gives you a sense of freedom when you climb onto that plane for the next unknown adventure. And after all what is life without that next destination to look forward to?
Hello Michel, thank you for the nice comment. Yes, travel is expensive which is why I travel only 2-3 weeks every year now instead of 2-3 months like I used to do before I had children. I love travel so I just do what I can when I can. As I always say; work,save money, travel, repeat. MAC.
What a beautifully written reflection! I really enjoyed how you captured both the chaos and the charm of travel—the dust, the cows in Delhi, the wrong turns with Google Maps, and the golden surprises like spotting Hôtel des Invalides. It’s so true that travel teaches lessons no classroom can, from patience at security lines to problem-solving when plans fall apart. I also loved your point about stepping away from the phone and trusting intuition—it’s amazing how much more present we become when we truly look around. Thank you for reminding us that every challenge on the road is really just part of the adventure, shaping us into stronger and more open versions of ourselves.
Thank you for the very nice comment. It encourages me to see comments that inspire me to do more. Thank you again. MAC.
Hey Michael Cicchi, Recently, I visited your YouTube channel. Your “”travel”-related content is just amazing. I am impressed. 💝🔥 Thanks for providing such beautiful content. I see that you put a lot of effort into creating the content of the channel. But I saw that the engagement on your channel is very low. Most of the videos have few views and very little traffic. I was very sad to see it. I researched your channel. After researching, I found that your channel’s videos do not use good thumbnails, good titles, good descriptions, and high-ranking video keywords. Correcting these mistakes is called SEO optimization. Video SEO is the real reason why your channel isn’t growing. If you don’t use good SEO, your channel will never expand. Video is very important for SEO channel ranking. If you want we can discuss this in more detail; this is my email (shuvoahammed5656@gmail.com). Thanks.
OK. I will have to figure out a good time to talk about it. MAC.
Michael –
I am also a travel enthusiast who enjoys getting out of comfort zone. Even if you have everything planned for a trip, you will encounter challenges. After arriving in Cairo, Egypt, I flagged down a taxi to take me to my hotel. Unbeknownst to me, the driver only knew how to speak Arabic.
However, I managed to explain to him which hotel I needed to go to. Frankly, language barriers are some of the most common challenges anyone will face while traveling. Despite this, I thoroughly enjoyed my vacation in Egypt. I agree with your sentiment that exploring unexpected places adds spontaneity. Go off the beaten path every so often.
Live, laugh, travel.
Hello Godwin, thank you for the very interesting comment. Yes, the language barrier thing is quite a nuisance but I have been using Google Translate more and more while traveling. I guess there are translating apps and devices now but I have not yet started to look for which are the most useful. I have lots of time for that though, since my next trip is to NYC again and after that, to Vancouver Canada again.English is spoken pretty good in those places????. MAC.
Really enjoyed reading this, it reminded me how much travel has shaped me over the years, even in ways I didn’t fully appreciate at the time. I’m not a full-time traveler by any means, but the trips I have taken ended up teaching me more than I expected. The little things stick with you: getting lost because your map app glitched, figuring out how to communicate when you don’t speak the language, or even just slowing down long enough to let a new place change you a bit.
Your perspective on intention really hit home. The older I get, the more I realize travel isn’t about checking places off a list, it’s about who you become along the way. Your guide captures that better than most “travel tips” I see online. Great read.
Hello Jason, thank you for the very nice comment. Yes, I used to put little green pins on Google Maps then I would visit those pinned places so I could remove the little green pins. But now I want to create my travel blog website to help cultivate cultural understanding and describe true to life travel experiences. So, now when I travel, I sure better LEARN something. Anyway, thank you again for the great comment.MAC.
I just read through the Travel and Life Experiences section on Roam Reverie, and I really enjoyed how the author blends personal backstories with practical travel insights. The posts cover everything from unforgettable road trips and city explorations to cultural discoveries and tips for digital nomads, which makes the whole travel experience feel both relatable and inspiring. I especially liked how the content encourages meaningful travel that’s more than just checking destinations off a list. I’m curious, when you reflect on all your journeys, which destination ended up changing your perspective on travel the most, and why?
Hello Hanna, thank you for the nice comment. I would have to say that my first North Sumatra excursion has to be the destination that most changed my perspective because, not only did I end up getting married because of that trip, but also, that is the destination I most long to return to, possibly for retirement some day. Thanks again for the great comment. MAC.
I absolutely love your focus on the beauty of missed moments and imperfect plans. In a world that’s so obsessed with ‘doing it all’ for the social media feed, it’s refreshing to hear someone champion the freedom of just being there. How do you mentally navigate that shift from feeling ‘behind schedule’ to realizing that the detour actually is the trip?
Hello Leah, thank you for the great comment. Answering the question, I would have to admit that at first, I am quite annoyed at any such delays or plan changes. But then I always have to stop and think about the experiences I AM having. I am still in a new place and I am still experiencing new things. If i do not obsess over the original plan, I can then reframe the days’ itinerary and go from there. Anyway, that is a basic answer, I do not want to take to much time here so, thank you again for the great comment. MAC.