Travel has always been a personal adventure for me. As a child, I dreamed of distant lands, and when I finally had the chance to explore the world, each journey became a unique experience. In the past, traveling to a faraway country was more than just physical movement; it was a status symbol, a once-in-a-lifetime experience that one had to earn. Flying itself was a ritual: I would dress formally for the airport because air travel was not just a means of transportation—it was an event, a moment of stepping out of everyday life and into an exciting adventure. The way we dressed contributed to the sense of occasion, making us feel like part of something grand and extraordinary.
Today, I no longer always have the chance to dress elegantly, as low-cost airlines often offer flights at inconvenient hours, making comfort a priority. However, whenever possible, I still try to wear something nice because I believe that travel is not just about the destination but also about the journey itself. And while flying may no longer feel as ceremonious, I still like to treat it as a small celebration.
In the mid-20th century, flying was truly special. I remember my first flight as if I were preparing for a grand evening event. I arrived at the airport in a suit because air travel was an occasion in itself. The interiors of planes were elegant, the seats spacious, and food and drinks were served generously. Flight attendants were more than just safety officers; they were true hosts, enhancing the experience with their attentiveness and hospitality. Travel was a luxury, accessible only to society’s upper classes.
Back then, long-distance trips and exotic vacations were exceptional experiences. When I first traveled to a distant country, the journey felt like a true exploration. Cultural differences were more pronounced, and with limited access to information, every trip was a real adventure.
The 21st century changed everything. The rise of low-cost airlines drastically reduced ticket prices, making travel accessible to the masses. This is undoubtedly a positive development, as today almost anyone can visit the destinations they dream of. People travel more frequently, explore more countries, and the world feels increasingly connected.
However, this accessibility has come at a price. The experience of flying has significantly diminished. Airplane cabins are more cramped, seats are tightly packed, and in-flight meals and beverages often come at an extra cost. Flight attendants are now more focused on safety and efficiency rather than hospitality. Passengers, too, have become less mindful—traveling in pajamas or sweatpants is no longer frowned upon, and airport chaos often reveals behavior that would be unthinkable in a more formal setting.
Airports have also adapted to mass travel. Security checks are lengthy, queues seem endless, and navigating the terminal can feel like an obstacle course. Instead of a relaxing journey, travel has become stressful and exhausting.
Travel is no longer an exclusive experience but a widespread activity. People travel more frequently but spend less time in each place, often prioritizing taking photos over truly immersing themselves in the moment. Social media has transformed travel into a status symbol, where the goal is not necessarily personal discovery but rather showcasing the experience to others.
However, this doesn’t mean that travel can’t still be meaningful. It simply requires a different approach. Low-cost airlines provide the opportunity for frequent travel, but if we seek a truly memorable experience, we must put in more effort. Choosing less crowded travel periods or visiting off-the-beaten-path destinations can make a significant difference. Slowing down and truly engaging with the local culture can lead to deeper and more rewarding experiences.
Over time, travel has undergone a major transformation. What was once a luxury has become a mass activity, opening the world to more people. This is undoubtedly a positive change, as more individuals can now experience different cultures and places. However, the overall travel experience has declined, often becoming stressful, chaotic, and lacking refinement.
Ultimately, how we experience travel depends on our mindset. By carefully selecting our destinations and avoiding the crowds, we can still create unforgettable journeys. Because in the end, travel is not just about moving from one place to another—it’s about discovery, relaxation, and collecting memories. And these experiences are always available to those who are open to them.
So, let’s pack our bags and set off—but let’s not forget that the true magic of travel doesn’t lie in the plane ticket or the hotel room. It’s in how we choose to experience the journey itself.