When I was younger, I thought that the privilege of traveling the world is all about enjoying the luxury of local shopping, fine dining and many other ways to satisfy one’s vanity. But I was completely wrong and with stirring hearts, I learned that there is more to traveling.
In this present era of booming tourism, I still consider traveling as the primary channel to in-depth learning about cultural, social and environmental adaptations which are the most significant aims of travel itself. In doing so, it’s always crucial for me to appreciate the genuine value of relaxation yet still keeping my mind active through all these learning means.
I’m not sure if it’s comes with age. But the older I get, the more I grew fond of embracing the simplicity of traditional lifestyle. A product of classical generation myself, I have experienced how those traditionally long methods in matters of living, learning, working and even traveling have notably shaped the character of an individual.
It is usually through the old traditional ways where transparency is ever present and one’s worth is well defined.
In between those Asian travels I’ve had, the journey of meeting and socializing with local folks particularly in the countryside has taught me that countries in this continent share and enjoy common denominators which make it distinctively conservative yet still remain very viable in various facets: a) the practice of values and ethics, b) respect for manual labor, c) preservation of ethnicity, d) sustainable social enterprising, e) rich traditions, etc.
All these highly esteemed customs still exist in Asia and will always be its definitive trademarks. I have seen most of Asia. I am an Asian. I do love everything about Asia and I define my worth with the way I preserve and promote the roots of my own tradition.
These edifying sites are like rocks that stood the test of time where rich heritage and solid values are the core principles to living standards and thus, enables Asia to sustain and attract sturdy economies since the beginning of time:
Note: Check more photos of Bukchon Hanok Village on my earlier blog and first trip to Seoul at this link: http://jitrrietravel.weebly.com/travel-blogs/simple-sweethearts-meet-stylish-seoul
As Asians, there are various reasons why we travel and migrate. Sadly, the core reason is about coming from a corrupt or less privileged country which are caused by people themselves and not by nature or circumstance. We forgot that we are still part of the “people” yet we keep on criticizing the land where we came from.
And as part of the “people”, I feel that we have to continue to play our part in terms of keeping the old traditions alive from this generation to the next, promoting our culture and being proud of our roots. Embracing one’s identity is a lot worthy of respect and recognition.
Easier said than done. Yes. But by consistently fulfilling each one’s creative ways and collectively at the same time can deliver gigantic impact, indispensable pressure and eventually shed light to the right parties. Because actions will always speak louder than complains.
Come travel and embrace Asia with us starting now !!