Written by JoDee Curtis
I’ve written before on my love of travel. Recently, my husband and I went on an international cruise. It was a wonderful experience of meeting new people, visiting new places, experiencing new cultures, eating new foods, and, simply, just getting away from the routine of our lives.
Travel has long been celebrated for its ability to broaden perspectives, ignite curiosity, and provide unforgettable experiences. Yet, one of its most profound benefits often goes unrecognized: its power to foster inclusion and belonging.
Whether it’s navigating bustling markets in Tangier, Morocco, or sharing a meal with locals in Cadiz, Spain, travel offers unique opportunities to build connections and embrace diversity.
1. Breaking Down Barriers
Travel exposes us to different cultures, languages, and ways of life. This exposure helps break down stereotypes and preconceptions, fostering understanding. When we interact with people from diverse backgrounds, we challenge our assumptions and confront our biases, creating space for more inclusive attitudes.
On our first day in Barcelona, Simone Biles’ picture was splashed across the front page of the morning newspaper. Because of the similarity to the US news, in an odd way, it made us feel included as Americans. We ate many of our ship meals with a young family from Toronto. Both the parents were physicians, and we talked with them about the pros and cons of socialized medicine.
We also watched the Olympics – throughout the trip – on British TV. We found it interesting (although, admittedly, sometimes frustrating) to NOT hear so much about the USA Olympians and to watch more wrestling and fencing vs. swimming and gymnastics.
2. Encouraging Cultural Exchange
We loved learning from the travel guides in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco; we felt their sense of pride in sharing the history and the stories about their cities and countries. Soccer (football in their languages) is a hot topic, and their light bantering about their teams was fun to follow. It seemed like at least half of the kids wore soccer jerseys in all 3 countries. Porto, Portugal, was the home – at one time – of J. K. Rowling, so the bookstore where she found inspiration for Harry Potter books and Hogwarts – an international treasure – was a real hot spot.
With great delight, the guides pointed out several different United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) sites. These sites are considered prime examples of the world’s natural and cultural heritage and hold special significance for all. Visiting a UNESCO site reminds me that I’m visiting just a piece of a much bigger world filled with unique and beautiful places; the honor of the guides and other locals is very evident when sharing it with us.
3. Fostering Personal Growth
Travel often pushes us out of our comfort zones, encouraging personal growth and self-discovery. As we navigate unfamiliar environments and adapt to new situations, we develop greater resilience and open-mindedness.
Embracing new experiences, like shopping in the markets of Tangier, riding a cable car down a hill in Porto, or navigating the streets of Cadiz with no Wi-Fi, helps us build confidence and adaptability.
4. Creating Inclusive Spaces
Inclusive travel means more than just visiting new places—it’s about supporting businesses. I loved shopping in the local shops and markets, the bright fabrics in Morocco, the cork throughout Portugal. This support not only benefits travelers but also empowers local communities and promotes equitable growth.
5. Promoting Global Citizenship
Travel fosters a sense of global citizenship, encouraging us to see ourselves as part of a larger, interconnected world. This broader perspective helps us appreciate the diversity of human experiences and recognize the importance of inclusion in creating a more harmonious global society. People from Portugal and Australia asked us about the US presidential election and told us they heard about it every single day. We were surprised.
The benefits of travel extend far beyond the joy of exploring new destinations. Through its power to break down barriers, build friendships, and foster personal growth, travel plays a crucial role in promoting inclusion and belonging. So, the next time you pack your bags, remember that your journey is not just an adventure—it’s an opportunity to make a positive impact and celebrate the rich tapestry of human experience.
Of course, we don’t have to travel to understand inclusion and belonging. We have it on our teams, within our organizations, and in our neighborhoods. It might not be as obvious as an Australian accent or attending church services in the Portuguese language, but we have humans with different interests, experiences, and tastes. What are you doing to include them? If you need help, reach out!