Online Learning and working and shopping makes life so smooth and streamlined. There’s really no need then to deal with traffic jams or nasty folks in the cubicle next to you. Yet, for all those gains comes isolation and learning to mix with others has its benefits.

As the European Union considers requiring Travel visas of Americans, I wonder if they are ready for the end result: a downswing in tourism, revenue and understanding. Maybe it’s worth it to them, perhaps it will spur Americans to spread their wings and travel elsewhere.  But maybe it will signal a downward trend in international relations at a time when most nations cannot afford it.

I believe the EU would find it detrimental and not only in economic terms. Only by being exposed to various cultures, whether at home or abroad, will we truly learn about different ways of life. That’s one downfall of the internet and its insularity. For all of the sense of being in touch with the rest of the world, many are less exposed than ever to diversity. Which brings us to today’s motto:

“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.” ~ Mark Twain

While travel may not be an absolute necessity, stepping out of the box is. Imagine the creative ideas, the refreshment of new vistas and the thrill of experiencing something different.  Plan a trip today to move beyond the four walls of your existence, even if it’s only to the ethnic cafe down the block.  Now that’s a yummy idea-!

Happy Monday— wherever you are in the world, make it count.

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