Lens-Artists Challenge #184: Travel has taught me

This week we hope you’ll share some of your travel experiences through our theme “Travel has taught me”.

“Travel changes you. As you move through this life and this world you change things slightly, you leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life — and travel — leaves marks on you.”     ~Anthony Bourdain

Travel is about more than just going on a trip somewhere although that can be a motivation sometimes. Many travelers might also agree that you can learn about culture and history as well as enjoy meeting new people while visiting another country or even a new area nearby. One of things I have learned is to be open-minded. Travel can change you  – so true.

In Meiji Shrine, Tokyo, children learned about their traditions and paying respect to people at an early age.

“Food may not be the answer to world peace, but it’s a start.” ~Anthony Bourdain

Our visit to China was a great experience.11 travelers from different parts of the world (Greece, Australia, England, Japan, and the US) met in Beijing to begin our journey. One day, we were invited to a private home to learn how to prepare Chinese food together. While making Chinese dumplings and enjoying delicious homemade authentic food, we spent the entire afternoon sharing our stories and learning about Chinese traditions.

While preparing the dish, the chef shared his cooking skills and took time to chat with us. He said that long noodles symbolized a long life in China, and many families serve noodles to celebrate birthdays. He then wished us a happy, healthy, and long life. 🙂

In Bangkok, we saw various “spirit houses” outside of buildings. We then learned that it was a Thai tradition. These spirit houses are a symbol meant to protect the spirit of nature as people take over the land to build houses and parks.

The photo below was taken in Xi’an, China (Xi’an became a cultural and political centre of China in the 11th century BC) while we were walking around the old town after dinner. The man was taking an evening walk with his aging mother who was in a wheelchair. It was quite a moving scene.

“Another great thing about travel: It often serves to remind you that the world is full of things that are not about you.” ~ Dave Barry

Some houses in Peru reserve a spot for remembering their ancestors by displaying their belongings.

The image below was captured in Egypt. Two boys were walking to school together, one with an arm around his buddy. This photo made me smile, it said to me that people can trust each other, share a happy moment, and live in harmony despite their differences.

“In the end, you’re just happy you were there — with your eyes open — and lived to see it.”  ~Anthony Bourdain

Yes, I’m just happy we lived to learn about cultures in different parts of the world. Mostly, I’m happy to have a chance to share these with you.

Many thanks to Ann-Christine for her beautiful Memorable Events challenge. So glad you shared your memorable events as seen through your lens – beautiful images and stories.

We are looking forward to seeing your travel stories and images, whether to a faraway place or on a local day trip. We also hope you’ll share what you’ve learned along the way. Please link to my post here and use the Les-Artists tag to help us find you.  

Next week, John (photobyjohnbo) will lead LAPC #185. The theme is Change – ‘Given that change is inevitable, for this week’s challenge consider change as it applies to you. Maybe it’s the changes in your family over the years, the change of seasons in your favorite park, or even the change in the technology of your camera equipment. In short, what does “change” mean to you? ‘ Be sure to visit John’s site.

Tags: LENS-ARTISTS

• January 29, 2022
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