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‘Our happiest moments as tourists always seem to come when we stumble on one thing while in pursuit of something else.’ – American mystery Novelist Lawrence Block

Trafalgar Square London. Happy New Year

 

Consider why travelling is likely be beneficial to our wellbeing in 2019:

Travelling makes us interesting people, as there is always a place to talk about. Someone once asked me how to strike up a conversation with people. One of my responses was to ask the about places they have visited then continue the conversation from there.

It takes you away from your comfort zone and disconnects you from the daily rat race. There is always a chance of returning from your trip and appreciating your home much more than before you went away.

At the Mall

The lifelong memories of those destinations are likely to stay with you, whether good or bad.

Travelling will also make you appreciate and respect other cultures, leaving cheerful and less ignorant.

Our happiest moments as tourists are when we see a place with fresh eyes.

Lions in the square

 

 

 

 

Overall, travelling opens the eyes and educates.

So what would you say about your journeys? Do you intend to travel this year and if so where to? Drop me line as always and I hope you decide to take that trip this year. Safe travels for 2019.

Read more on plans here. 

About the Author: Bola

About me and Journeywithbola.com I’m Bola, a London-based travel writer and blogger with over 20 years of writing experience and a background in business and finance, administration, journalism, teaching, and support work across the education and homelessness sectors. I help women over 60 discover the world again, in confidence, friendship and freedom. Since launching my blog in 2013, I’ve been on a mission to inspire and empower women—especially senior women who may feel isolated—to step outside their comfort zones and rediscover the joy of exploration. My work focuses on uncovering hidden historical gems in London and beyond, bringing their stories to life in ways that are engaging, accessible, and meaningful. I believe travel isn’t just about going far—it’s about seeing familiar places with fresh eyes. Over the years, I’ve met many people who have barely explored London despite living here, often held back by routine. That’s where I come in. Through my blog and curated group trips, I help women experience the city (and the world) like curious travellers, not just residents. My trips are designed to be more than just journeys—they’re shared experiences that build confidence, connection, and lasting memories. Whether we’re walking through historic streets or venturing further afield, the goal is always the same: to inspire you to move, explore, and embrace new possibilities. Because I truly believe—we are not meant to stay still. If you’re able to move, in any way, then keep moving. My passion for travel began in childhood, inspired by watching my parents explore the world. That early influence shaped my belief in travel as a powerful tool for well-being, growth, and transformation. The Vision Of Journey With Bola Create a community of mid-luxury travellers. If you would like to book a 15 minute consultation with me, click below.

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14 Comments

  1. Doreen Pendgracs 15/01/2019 at 10:52 pm - Reply

    Travel always makes our lives better. It’s no wonder that travel contributes and indeed creates our happiest moments. All the best to you for 2019, Bola.

    • Bola Akande 17/01/2019 at 8:17 pm - Reply

      Thanks Doreen. Travel is so nourishing, happy travels for 2019!

  2. RoseMary Griffith 16/01/2019 at 3:24 pm - Reply

    I love travel and am happiest when I can take off every six weeks–even if it’s only a day trip away from home. One of my best unexpected joys was getting detoured to Shannon, Ireland on our way home from Zurich. What a lovely place to be “stuck” for the evening!

    • Bola Akande 21/01/2019 at 9:55 am - Reply

      Stumbling on the unexpected makes travelling worthwhile. What a lovely detour.

  3. Phoenicia Oyeniyi 16/01/2019 at 6:07 pm - Reply

    I absolutely love to travel! I first got the holiday bug way back in 1997 when I went on a two week break to Turkey with a college friend. Let’s just say I have never looked back. I enjoy flying, well take off and landing. This year I am off to the Caribbean!?

    • Bola Akande 19/01/2019 at 9:10 pm - Reply

      It’s almost impossible to shake off the travel bug. But then why would we want to? There is so much please in travelling. Safe journey for 2019.

  4. Ursula Maxwell-Lewis 16/01/2019 at 7:28 pm - Reply

    Bola, loved the quote,and your observations. Travel truly can broaden our horizons if we travel with a real sense of curiosity,compassion and joy. Good start to 2019! Thank you

    • Bola Akande 17/01/2019 at 8:12 pm - Reply

      Let’s keep the curiosity, compassion and joy going and influence others.

  5. Elaine Masters 17/01/2019 at 4:32 am - Reply

    I love getting out to explore the world whether it’s a new neighborhood or across the planet. Life is so rich and we can’t appreciate it fully from a book or video. You need to experience it.

    • Bola Akande 17/01/2019 at 8:10 pm - Reply

      So true! Exploring new places will give us a new insight.

  6. Karen Warren 21/01/2019 at 8:55 am - Reply

    I agree with the quote at the beginning of your post – it’s the totally unexpected things that make travel so worthwhile.

    • Bola Akande 21/01/2019 at 9:58 am - Reply

      Looking forward to more pleasantly, unexpected surprises in 2019.

  7. Lolly 23/01/2019 at 4:24 pm - Reply

    I plan to visit three destinations this year, Europe, the Caribbean and West Africa.
    The quote by the American mystery Novelist Lawrence Block really touches me.
    I am excited to explore, learn, meet different people, get out of my comfort zone, take a million photos, eat a variety of foods and relax. These are the top reasons why I love to travel 🙂
    Thank you for a lovely fist 2019 post

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