Thankful Travels: A Gratitude List Above the Atlantic
As I write this mid-flight, sandwiched in the middle seat over the vast Atlantic en route from London to Miami, I find myself reflecting on the things travel enthusiasts can be grateful for this year, especially during this season of thanksgiving.
Foremost among them is the return of travel to a sense of normalcy. Gone are the nervous moments awaiting pre-trip Covid test results, navigating entry requirements, and enduring quarantines. These concerns are now relegated to the past, where they hopefully remain.
In no particular order, here are a few more reasons for gratitude this year:
- Having an entire airplane row to yourself.
- The awe of encountering iconic landmarks for the first time, whether it’s the Eiffel Tower, Statue of Liberty, Vegas Strip, or Big Ben.
- Infinity pools with breathtaking views and their delightful companions, swim-up bars.
- The unwavering support of travel advisors.
- The excitement of waking up on the first day of a trip, knowing that a world of adventure lies ahead, making next Monday at work feel light-years away.
- The blissful contrast of enjoying paradise while back home faces bad weather.
- Tour guides who enlighten and entertain, sometimes becoming lifelong friends.
- The enduring impact of a song that forever transports you back to a specific trip.
- The constant allure of hidden gems, even in popular destinations, waiting to be discovered for those willing to explore.
- That one vacation photo that instantly becomes your profile picture.
- Stumbling upon a local restaurant that serves the best meal of the trip.
- The warm welcome with a reception drink at the hotel.
- Souvenirs that, despite initial debates, become cherished mementos.
- When transportation connections are held for you.
- Encountering history or art that deeply moves you.
- Witnessing the mesmerizing blue of water for the first time.
- The enchantment of theme parks, especially the joy on kids’ faces.
- Balancing touristy experiences with local secrets shared by residents.
- Indulging in authentic cuisine, like Italian in Italy, Mexican in Mexico, and Thai in Thailand.
- The exhilaration of landing ahead of schedule.
- Capturing the classic window-seat photo of clouds and wings.
- Appreciating the flight crew’s resilience, dealing with challenging passengers with a smile.
- Discovering a new vacation cocktail to recreate at home.
- Swiftly passing through security with no lines.
- Stepping out of your comfort zone to embrace new experiences.
- Recreating favorite movie or TV scenes at the locations you visit.
- Experiencing fresh snow on the slopes or reaching stunning views after a hike.
- Being among the first to receive your luggage.
- Surprisingly finding that a destination surpasses low expectations.
- The camaraderie of trip friends, whose shared adventures create lasting memories.
- Contributing to and giving back to the communities visited.
- The magical moments of beach sunrises and sunsets.
- The carefree and open version of ourselves that emerges during vacations.
- And lastly, the joy of returning home for Thanksgiving.
In a world filled with travel wonders, both grand and subtle, there’s an abundance of reasons for gratitude.
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