This article was originally published on Unwritten.
I am lucky enough to say that I have traveled a lot in my life; I have been to 5 out of 7 continents, 15+ countries and all before I turned 20. I’ve gone on trips with my family, friends, and traveled solo. My living situation has consisted of family, resorts, and hostels. For being 20, I’ve done more than the average person.
Whenever I’m away I look forward to coming home. I’ve learned that I’m a homebody. I like being around my family and friends. I prefer places that I recognize, that I feel comfortable in.
I once went on a trip to London, Paris, Amsterdam, and lastly Dubai with a best friend of mine. It sounds like an amazing experience and it really was, in only 17 days we conquered 4 different cities. I had the opportunity to meet new people and see new places, what’s not to love, right? I found myself thinking about home instead of the beautiful art I was standing in front of. The small hostel rooms reminded me of my comfortable bedroom. Foreign food reminded me of how much I missed my roommates cooking. And one of my favorite times of the day was when I was on the phone with my mom.
Don’t get me wrong, I don’t dislike traveling, I’ve just learned that I only want a week or two away. I’m not one of those people that can go off and explore the world happily for six months. I feel like I hear everyone wanting to leave, it seems to be a norm, but that’s not me. And it doesn’t have to be you either. I used to feel like something was wrong with me for not wanting to travel but now I’ve come to the realization that I have nothing I want to run from. Not everyone that wants to leave is running away from something, some people are running toward different experiences but in most cases that’s what I believe people are doing, running. There’s no reason for me to leave and that’s okay too. I’d much rather explore the place that I’m from, it’s the place I grew up in, the place I call home.
If you feel like me, try a staycation. Enjoy your house and town in a peaceful way. Take a few days off and do the things you’ve been wanting to do for awhile but haven’t had the time to. Take that dance class, binge watch that Netflix show, or try that restaurant that you’ve had your eye on. Do what makes you happy. It’s amazing what you can find in your very own city if you give it the chance.
Some people seem to travel to find themselves or get away, but I feel no need to leave if I want to find myself I can do it right from my very own home.