I get why so many Americans don't have passports. I can drive 600 miles and I'm still in the USA. You drive 600 miles in Europe you're going to go through a few countries. Most countries in the world are like that.
I've been to a lot of countries in Europe and a couple of countries in Africa and Asia. The local culture is always an eye opener and a good experience. For me however, the beauty of this country is amazing. I've been to every state in the union and each one has something to offer. The deserts out west and the mountain ranges we have are breathtaking. Seeing the Grand Canyon is mind-blowing. Hawaii lives up to its reputation. If Alaska didn't have the long winters I would relocate in a heartbeat.
About the only country I would still want to visit is Australia. It's more of being around the people kind of thing. They seem like really good people I could have a good time with.
I get the passport thing too with how big this country is. Most of the STATES in our country are bigger than European countries. LOL Also I would tell you before 9/11, crossing the border or flying to U.S. Territories was very easy. Felt like you could do it with just change in your pocket.
I read an article recently that 1 in 6 Americans will never get out of their state. That's crazy. I realize not everyone can travel internationally, but at least go see something meaningful in another state. I've been to a lot of places in the US and World, and until two years ago, I had never been to Boston. I had a chance to walk the Freedom Trail and visit all the historical sites, see Fenway's Green Wall, drive to Salem and Plymouth Rock, see the New England forest country side where the Appalachians end, what a great experience! There is always something worthwhile in this country to see and do. My favorite part of travelling in this country is seeing all the small towns and what they offer. You'll find so many hidden gems. Something with nature, history, or even some local shops and hangouts that can't be matched in the generic big city.
Astronauts say it's a religious experience being in space and looking at the planet. My theory is that you don't even have to go that far to change the world. If everyone in this world could travel and see it, we'd have a lot less problems. Either as an upgrade, a downgrade, or even just an entirely new way of looking at life. And the younger you do it the better, before you get stuck in your ways.
