It is difficult to escape millennial musings these days. Whether in the newspapers or on the TV, we are constantly reminded of the last one thousand years and their impact on our present day society. From my point of view, as the Director of CHI, this wave of self-examination gives me an opportunity to reflect on and to contemplate the true meaning of travel.
Most people equate traveling with enjoyment, relaxation and fun.
Some of us get excited by new artistic, culinary or sports experiences. Even scientific disciplines such as archeology, wildlife research, and anthropology are in demand by the sophisticated traveling public. We eagerly share the newly acquired knowledge, the videos and the photos, with friends, relatives, and co-workers. Staying with a complete stranger's family in their home is not for everyone, but for those few who are willing to enter the life of another person from another culture in another country, the rewards are nothing short of miraculous. There are very few things in life more inspiring than getting to know another human being on a deep friendship level.