Top 7 Reasons Students Should Travel on US Roads
Traveling and getting to know other cultures is a fascinating experience. You can take a break from your life and learn new things. For instance, learn a new language, a new dance, taste fresh foods, and make friends from around the globe.
Hence, many students decide to take a sabbatical year or embark on an overseas program. Sure, it sounds exciting, but it takes quite a lot of funds to participate in a program. Also, it can become stressful and complicated for someone who's never been abroad or hasn't traveled much. So, the good idea is to start traveling around the country.
The US is diverse, with many different communities, landscapes, foods, and traditions. Therefore, if you're on a budget or don't want to venture overseas yet, here are seven reasons you should travel on US roads.
1. The US has a lot of scenic roads
The US is an incredibly rich country, full of stunning natural landscapes. You can find mountains, deserts, forests, lakes, beaches, and more. The variety of scenic views is unbelievable. But the best part is that no matter where you drive, the roads pass through gorgeous places, each uniquely beautiful. So, driving through is always a fantastic experience.
Whether you have a set destination, you can make stops and have lunch near a lake or another natural element.
The roads in the US are increasingly getting better, especially the most used ones, so driving with your car or motorcycle shouldn't be a problem. If you got your license recently, this might be your chance to get some driving experience.
Here are some of the most scenic roads in the US.
Pacific Coast Highway
The 90s grunge band Hole even dedicated a song to this road because it's truly magical. PCH starts in Dana Point and ends in San Francisco on a 655-mile highway on the coast. There are some famous stops along the way that might lengthen your trip:
- Laguna Beach
- Long Beach
- Santa Monica
- Malibu (a Hole song and another one by Miley Cyrus)
- Santa Barbara
- Monterey
- Santa Cruz
Phoenix to the Grand Canyon
The road from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon is all in Arizona. It's a 270-mile road with a natural attraction: the Grand Canyon. You can also bike, hike, and experience the local food. Here are the key attractions:
- Grand Canyon
- Red rocks of Sedona
- Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale
Route 66
The most American road trip is on the road from Chicago to Los Angeles: Route 66. It's an iconic 2000-mile trip where you can stop at a couple of whiskey places. Here are the best stops:
- Chicago
- Saint Louis
- Tulsa
- Oklahoma City
- Amarillo
- Albuquerque
- Los Angeles
2. It's more affordable than going to other countries
The reason why you should pick the US as a travel destination if you already live in the country is simple: it's cheaper than going abroad. Airplane tickets to Europe, Australia, or Asia can be expensive, and you'll need a lot of time to organize those trips.
Also, if you wish to adhere to an overseas program that your university or college offers, you might have to spend at least a couple of monthly paychecks just for signing up.
So, staying in the US is a great alternative. You don't have to organize nearly as many things as you would for going abroad. Also, you could always pack your bags and be home in a day. Then, you can organize a trip the next day to some other location in the US.
Moreover, the currency doesn't change, and you're used to the prices. You can also have your usual meal preferences and stores.
The total of a trip can amount to less than 1K, counting fuel, check-ins, and food. The cost is flexible according to your priorities and itinerary. Also, you can rent an RV and skip the hotel costs. This way, you can travel for two months with less than 1K.
Lastly, you can keep working on your assignments, essay writing service, or freelance work during your trips. You can keep writing essays, papers, and emails on your computer whenever you want (provided you have data or wifi).
3. It's an excellent start for someone who wants to travel but not far
As previously mentioned, if traveling abroad makes you anxious, don't worry. It's normal to be afraid of the culture shock and distance that separates you from your home. Especially if you plan on going alone, being far away can feel like too much.
So, if you want to start getting used to traveling, the US roads are the perfect place. It's close, yet the scenery changes completely. The currency, language, and overall way of life don't change. Nonetheless, you can find stunning views with unique people.
This alternative is excellent for travel beginners and is pocket friendly. Next year, you can try to go overseas after getting used to traveling independently.
4. The US has a destination for every person
It's vital to bring back the thing we've been stressing: landscape variety. You can find the most iconic places in Arizona, Nevada, and Texas if you like deserts. If you want mountains and the cold, you can go to the northern states like Alaska even in the summer. Otherwise, the West or Eastern coast sea might do it for you.
The US has a stunning destination for you within a max 2000-mile drive, no matter what you like. So, why not give it a try?
5. It helps you understand yourself better
If you're still unsure about traveling, consider a life-changing experience. You'll get to meet new people and get a taste of new cultures. After all, the US is the definition of a "melting pot."
Driving around the country might help you appreciate your country more. Also, you'll find yourself during the time you'll travel. The views, people, foods, and amazing experiences will change your point of view and make you see life through new eyes. Therefore, you can't miss enriching your mind and soul.
6. Improves your adaptability
During your travel, you might find yourself having to navigate new territory. Both physically, you'll need to learn how to use maps and GPS and ask for indications. On the other hand, you may have to deal with minor issues that inevitably arise.
So, being on the road and traveling will teach you how to adapt more to the places and people. It will help you create a reference point.
7. Social skills
During your travel, you'll meet a lot of new people. But this means that you'll have to socialize and talk. Parties, restaurants, museums, concerts, and other events will test your social skills and improve them.
