Here are some features and benefits of travelling

EMBRACE NEW CULTURES

Not only does traveling provide a sense of adventure, but it also opens doors to cultures that do not revolve around MTV and McDonald's (or at least try hard not to). Though Americana has spread its wings on an international level, even a week abroad can serve to prove that people do live without the symbols that North Americans encounter every day.

BREAK OUT OF YOUR SHELL

Foremost on the reasons to travel is that you discover a lot about yourself. Now I'm not talking about taking a family trip to Disney World. When I speak of a special vacation, I envision someone backpacking across Europe or driving along the coast of Australia — that is, a trip with cultural significance. Not many things in the world can inspire you like seeing the Colosseum in Rome or the Pyramids in Egypt.

ENJOY LIFE LIKE NEVER BEFORE

Even for those of you who are not as culturally minded, traveling remains an appealing form of escape. In the dead of winter, with a foot of snow awaiting you outside your front door, what could be more tantalizing than a swim in the deep blue waters of Jamaica? Simply the attraction of the activities that are impossible to enjoy in your hometown make a trip worthwhile.

WIDEN YOUR BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

Speaking of moving up at the office, traveling can also increase your contacts if you keep your eyes open. Who knows what can happen over sushi in Tokyo; perhaps a new import/export opportunity for your business? The point is, as far out as it may seem, things always seem to come together when you least expect it.

PICK UP NEW LANGUAGES

If education of the alternative kind is not on your "to-do" list, just think about the benefits of learning another language. Taking a semester off school or a leave of absence from work may seem irrational, but what if you returned with a strong grasp of German?

MEET SOME LOVELY LADIES

Okay, I know Copacabana is picturesque, but you owe it to yourself to take a look at who's sunbathing right next to you. Traveling provides hundreds of chances to meet and greet ladies of all types in an atmosphere where you should be unafraid of backlash. The carefree attitude that brought you to your destination in the first place should transcend to the social scene as well.