Since this is a travel forum it's logical that the people who read and post here are inspired, moved and thrilled by travel. I agree with many of the lovely sentiments expressed on this thread. I hope I am always able to find new places to explore.

But I don't understand why it is that those who chose NOT to travel out of the US or to non-resort venues are often characterized as narrow minded dullards who are too boneheaded, lazy, frightened, whatever to see beyond their own inadequacies.

It's not an either/or proposition. Go and enjoy if that's your bliss. But why trash those who chose a different path?

obxgirl, point taken. I expect most folks on this forum travel to a variety of wonderful places both in and out of the USA.

> I expect most folks on this forum travel to a variety of wonderful places both in and out of the USA. <

Agreed!

obxgirl,

I doubt anyone here is seriously trashing those who choose not to travel. Maybe just trying to rationalize what seems irrational in our minds? I hadn't thought much about traveling to Europe until DH and I were offered a free place to stay for a week in Austria. We had an unexpected fantastic time and came back with THE TRAVEL BUG. Perhaps some of us who have the bug want to share this fascination with family and friends, cuz, it's so cool, right? Maybe, like us, if they just went once, then they'd get it.

I have been fortunate enough to visit all continents except Antarctica, but the only one I make a point of visiting at least once a year is Europe. I have already planned 2 trips to Europe in 2005. I am considering Thailand for 2006, but I haven't decided yet.

I wish I could explain the reason I prefer Europe to any other part of the world. People ask me that question, and all I can say is that I have an interest in all parts of the world, but a real fascination with Europe. Sometimes I feel like I've lived there in a past life, and that's why it keeps calling me home.

I think Americans get a bias toward Europe from our history and education. So much of our culture derived from Europe that we have more of an appreciation for the culture of Europe than for that of other continents. We have been fortunate to have been to Europe, Asia, and South and Central America. I feel very comfortable looking at European art, and of course a lot of South and Central American art derives from Europe, but try as I may, I cannot fully appreciate the art of Asia. I can look at it and recognize the talents that went into creating it, but it just doesn't enthrall me the way the art in Europe does. Food, too, even when new to me, seems more comfortable in Europe than in Asia.

... just reading these views make me feel comfortable. For some, I don't know what it means but I don't care. Thanks.

I too love seeing all the differences in cultures. Like in Vienna it is normal for people to stare at you (especially on the subway) in the US we are taught at a young age it is rude to stare. Also how at the grocery stores people put thier carts at your heels while standing in line (if you leave any space inbetween you and the person in front of you they will cut in line) lots of things in the US that we would consider rude it's just how it is done over there.

My DH has no desire to go to Europe (Which I don't understand??) but he's agreed to go for two weeks next Spring. I'm hoping he'll fall in love with everything as much as I am. I really think I was meant to be born into a European family.

Remember my sister who wouldn't travel outside the USA? Well, she now wants to go to Rome and Paris! Wonders never cease.

Heading back AGAIN this summer. Hard to beat and so much to see, some things for the first time, some places we repeat. More good memories coming up!

Once again, you all have verbalized my thoughts and feelings for me on the magic and wonder of Europe.

Except - no one mentioned the bread! Bread with anything/nothing - well, perhaps wine - ah, is there anything remotely like it anywhere in the U.S?
;-)