Travel is like love, mostly because it's a heightened state of awareness, in which we are mindful, receptive, undimmed by familiarity and ready to be transformed. That is why the best trips, like the best love affairs, never really end. All love affairs, all long-term relationships-travel included-demand that we keep an element of mystery alive and kicking.
Bill Bryson reflects on the parallels between travel and love, emphasizing that both experiences elevate our awareness and foster a sense of openness. When we travel, we become more mindful and ready for transformation, much like the excitement and intensity felt in a romantic relationship. This heightened state allows us to appreciate the newness of experiences and the beauty of the world around us.
Moreover, Bryson suggests that the most memorable journeys and romances share a common trait: they never truly end. To sustain the magic in both love and travel, it's essential to maintain an element of mystery. Just as long-term relationships thrive on intrigue, successful trips require a sense of adventure and discovery to keep the spirit alive.
