Updated 30 January 2020
A few years ago, the prospect of turning 30 used to scare the daylights out of me. They say that the 20s is the “prime time” of your life. You have all this energy and get to do whatever you want, and frankly without so much as a care in the world. Well, am I really going to miss out and lose it all? Apparently, nay! In fact, being 30 is great so far, even when it comes to travelling ?
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Granted, I may have little cutie pies (that’s my children) tagging along with me, or some extra spending wages that I need to take into account, but all has been well! So, scoot aside you youthful and beautiful twenty-somethings – travel is more awesome when you are in the 30s, and here are the reasons why ?
1. You have room for a little splurging
Travelling in your younger days means cutting down a lot of indulgences to save more for your adventure. After all, that was a smarter way to travel on a budget. Now that you are in your 30s and well into your career, you may have saved a substantial amount of cash for your travelling.
You no longer have to think twice about indulging in good coffee and some fine pastries to go along with it or buying those gorgeous Portmeirion plates that you have had your eye on for so long (after all it is way cheaper in the country of origin, right?). Or maybe sign up for an exotic off-road adventure with a decent, established provider. The point is, you have a little room to splurge for yourself or your family, whenever you feel like it.
2. You are able to invest in a comfortable airline & accommodation
Your backpacking days are now over. And naturally, you will go for something more comfortable that fits your budget. And guess what, with a little research you will find something that suits you! A budget boutique hotel may sound better than couch-surfing. Sometimes, you have your kids or family travelling with you. So, for convenience, you wouldn't mind spending a little more for a reliable airline and accommodation. Nothing beats having more peace of mind when you travel.
3. You may be older, but you are wiser
With wisdom, you will be able to come up with a better route for your travels. From planning your itinerary to reflecting on the journey, you know that you deserve to have things done your own way. Being in your 30s also means that you have moved on from societal pressures, and no longer struggle to live according to what people say.
You will make well thought out decisions during your travel, instead of impulsive ones. In your 30s you will see the world in a different light and you will appreciate the relationships that you build with new people that you meet along the way. Travelling will also probably be a way of discovering yourself, and a reflection on the kind of life that you want to have.
4. If you have young children, it is the best way to teach them about faith and Allah’s glory
“Say, [O Muhammad], ‘Travel through the land and observe how He began creation. Then Allah will produce the final creation…” (The Quran, 29:20)
Children are curious little beings. Exposing them to travelling and taking them out of your family comfort zone is a brilliant way to let them learn about the world and its diversity. Allah has His own magnificent plans and reasons for all of His diverse creations. So use this opportunity to let your children appreciate His splendour.
5. You are still healthy and still have the energy
Granted, being in your 30s means that it is time to be more health-conscious. However, that does not mean that it should stop you from discovering the world! In fact, now is the best time to go out and just do it. You will soon realize that you actually still have the drive and energy to enjoy your holidays and even sign up for adventurous activities like jungle trekking, bungee jumping or even food hunting.
And there you have it! Being 30 is not so bad. Well, to look at life more positively, ageing is not an excuse to stop doing what you love or to try out new things. So pack your bags and go for that long-planned adventure already! ?