TRAVEL MEMOIRS

I grinned and shook my head while sipping on my summer sour beer. We were at our regular brewery spot, celebrating David’s birthday and catching up. “You’ve got to check out this new sports car,” he insisted. “It’s packed with the latest technology and can accelerate from 0 to 100 in less than two seconds. I’ve already placed an order for one.”

Simon added, “Nice. I’m installing a new pool at my vacation home down by the coast.”

For more than two decades, our friendship has stood the test of time. However, as we settled into our middle-aged years, our biannual gatherings predictably turned into competitions over who had the most assets, investments, and latest extravagances. I would sit quietly, aware that they had no idea about the far more prosperous portfolio I had built.

Memories over materials

As they went on discussing shares, crypto, and retirement portfolios, their chatter brought back memories of my own adventures, reinforcing my conviction that travel experiences are the best investment.

Just like that time I ended up without a place to stay while wandering the maze-like streets of Tallinn’s Old Town. On a whim, I had taken the ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn for an overnight trip. The Estonian capital is truly one of the most stunning cities I've visited. However, its narrow, cobblestone streets twist and turn without any clear order. Mesmerized by the allure of this medieval town, I soon found myself lost.

As night began to fall, I felt a wave of anxiety wash over me. I found myself in a charming little café, where I confided in a kind couple about my predicament. Without a second thought, they welcomed me into their home for the evening, giving a total stranger a place to stay. Their kindness was a beautiful reminder that the world is brimming with good-hearted individuals. All we need to do is open our hearts, put aside our instinctive doubts, and seek assistance when needed.

I considered telling David and Simon about the experience but quickly realized they'd cringe at the idea of crashing on a stranger's couch rather than luxuriating in a king-size bed with top-notch silk sheets. My thoughts wandered back to their discussion. This stark difference between their craving for luxury and the value of unique experiences became even clearer as I tuned back into the conversation.

"Ash, have you been considering putting some money into that…"

The memories from my travels felt far more meaningful than their materialistic goals, and once again, I found myself drifting away.

The kindness of strangers

I remembered the unsettling but eye-opening evening in Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan. With no taxis around, I stood nervously at the edge of the empty road, hoping for a ride at 2 AM.

Observing the foreigner stranded on the side of the road without cell service, a battered Lada from the Soviet era came to a stop. The car was filled with formidable men, heavily tattooed, with biceps that looked larger than my head. One of them leaned out of the window.

“You need lift?”

Defying my initial instincts, I went ahead and accepted his offer for a ride. During the next twenty minutes, we shared various stories. They painted a vivid picture of life under the rule of the authoritarian president, Saparmurat Niyazov. I was captivated by their accounts of being compelled to complete a 37km trek along a concrete stairway adjacent to the mountains, evocatively named the Walk of Health. It was mandatory for every citizen to participate in this trek at least once a year.

Throughout the drive, alongside hearing numerous strange stories, I discovered the importance of not judging books by their covers. The people who initially seemed intimidating turned out to be incredibly kind and welcoming. They provided me with a deeper understanding of life in their unique and captivating country. It was an eye-opening experience I’ll always remember.

An education

“Bia moja, tafadhali.” (A beer, please.)

I speak the words with a confidence meant to hide my mispronunciation. Initially, the bartender appears confused, but then a wide smile spreads across his face.

“Do you speak Swahili?”

I feel the urge to nod in agreement because he hasn’t inquired about my proficiency in Swahili. However, I confess that my Swahili vocabulary barely stretches to ten words, and I’ve already used three of them just to order a beer.

My journeys have provided me with a kind of education that you can't find in any classroom. I've picked up the skill of ordering beer in more than thirty languages, explored countless museums and galleries, and connected with individuals who have shared their cultures and traditions with me.

I’ll always avoid eating with my left hand in India, laying chopsticks flat in China, or wearing shoes indoors in Japan. My experiences might not seem as glamorous as having an MBA on LinkedIn, but each one expanded my understanding and enriched my life.

The greatest returns

I could easily share countless tales that enriched my life without involving any money. That's exactly why I cherish travel more than any material possession. Of course, a new jacket has its charm, and the latest MacBook is impressive. But can they really compare to witnessing a breathtaking sunrise while soaking in the sounds of nature atop a Guatemalan jungle? Or the joy of making new friends as we belt out a horribly off-tune K Pop song at a karaoke bar in Seoul? Or…

I love looking back on those moments, even long after my MacBook was outdated and my jacket ended up at a Goodwill store.

“Jobs might pay the bills, but it's adventures that truly nourish your spirit” — Jamie Lyn Beatty.

“Jobs help you earn a living, but adventures enrich your spirit” — Jamie Lyn Beatty

As David and Simon continued their lengthy discussion about their newest purchases, I found myself feeling a bit sorry for them. They were caught up in the never-ending cycle of pursuing status symbols and material riches, constantly vying to surpass one another.

Ironically, seeking out rich experiences has brought me some monetary gains. As a writer, the array of stories I've gathered from my adventures has enabled me to sell articles to major publications.

While David, Simon, and the rest are busy running in circles, attempting to beat the market and one-up each other, I'll be concentrating on what I consider genuine wealth. I'll keep pouring my efforts into experiences that broaden my perspective, test my beliefs, and satisfy my endless craving for exploration. I urge you to embark on a similar journey.

Next time you have to decide between purchasing a new item or spending on an experience, consider which option will genuinely add value to your life. Whether it’s a weekend escape or exploring new activities in your own town, focus on experiences that foster lasting memories and personal development.

I'll make sure to include you in my plans for the next get-together..