To Travel: Real or Virtual? That is the Question.

Not so long ago, I began to wonder whether it would be easier and even more enjoyable to just “Google image” a town or city and “Wikipedia” enough information to substitute for physically traveling to said destination.  That would avoid the long lines, the not so friendly reception from locals in foreign countries not truly interested in engaging yet another clueless American, the unbelievable expense and hassle of travel, hotel screw-ups, transit delays and expenses, airport traffic and the overwhelmingly redundant imposition of layers of security scrutiny check points.

Visiting the Taj Mahal a few years ago, reaffirmed by my just completed experience in England and Italy, I no longer question the value of physically traveling versus one created virtually on the Internet. This is something that people have to discover for themselves. 

But the next question is even more relevant. Has globalization created a world of lookalike cities, dotted with cookie cutter shopping malls and brand name chains that all blend into one another………to the point that, standing anywhere, you could visualize yourself in any one of a hundred indistinguishable and unmemorable cities.  While only poverty stricken communities offer the opportunity to escape such a predicable experience as for example when you travel to parts of India, isolated islands in the Pacific like Palau or Ponehpe, and certain communities in Asia and Africa, are there are other options that allow you to experience a unique community, culture, scenic beauty, or just something different without having to venture out to places that just don’t feel safe, are polluted or difficult to navigate in, or are risky to your health?  I just don’t want to be weary of criminals and/or hustlers and being vigilant all of the time when I travel, or having to strictly adhere to safeguards such as consuming only bottled water, and even using bottled water to brush your teeth for fear of dysentery? 

Thankfully the answer is yes to all of these questions. Just visit Italy and you will understand.  Indeed, after spending the last week in several towns, I can offer travel to Italy as the perfect remedy for the travel doldrums. Indeed, Italy offers more opportunities than most countries on earth - to experience an unmistakable and unforgettable world history lesson colored with the artistry and innovation of the present, all with the comforts of home.