Today more people are travelling than ever before. Why is this the case? What are the benefits of traveling for the traveller?

Each year, millions of people visit other countries and spend their leisure time there. Actually, the number of travellers is growing year after year. There are many reasons behind

this

trend and the most important among them is the rise in the income and living standards of people. People are travelling because they can afford it. Thanks to advances in technology, air travel has become considerably cheaper;

as a result

, more and more people can visit foreign countries.

In addition

, people have become more curious. They read about foreign countries on the internet and watch programmes on television.

This

exposure makes them want to visit those countries so that they can experience everything

first

hand. They want to taste exotic dishes they have never eaten before and celebrate unique and colourful festivals they have only seen on TV. Travelling, after all, is the best way to learn and discover new things. Travelling benefits people in many ways. To start with, it is a good way for people to learn about the world. When they travel they get exposed to various cultures. They get to learn new languages and interact with new and interesting people.

This

exposure makes them tolerant and enhances their world view. Take myself as an example. I have been in France for a period as an exchange student. During

this

period, I have learned a great deal about the French culture.

For instance

, I have visited lots of museums and galleries in Paris and

as a result

, I now appreciate beauty in a more sensitive way.

In addition

, I have become more appreciative of differences. I now understand that customs, traditions, languages and skin colour are all unique to a country and need to be respected. In short, my travels have made me a better and more tolerant person. Every traveller has similar stories to share. To conclude, more and more people are travelling because of their natural curiosity and

also

because they can afford it. In my opinion,

this

is a positive development because it promotes learning and understanding.