I often find myself trying to explain the attraction traveling 1)   me. Traveling, according to many people, is often 2)   and even, at least sometimes, dangerous. But one benefit of traveling is that it creates a perfect atmosphere for the 3)   , an environment that can lead to better understanding and enlightenment. Many wonderful people and places lie 4)   . The fact that there are obstacles as well only makes the journey 5)   . My life and my memories will be enriched after encountering these people and places. That's a pretty big benefit!

      Of course I could also enrich my life without traveling very far at all, but there is something about foreign lands that provides 6)   . I think most non-travelers are simply too distracted by things such as work, home, and friends to devote 7)   to observation of life. I'm more observant when I'm on the road and therefore, more alive. I talk to more people and listen to them carefully. I keenly notice everything about my strange new environment. I see a lot of humor that can compensate for the misery of 8)   .