We can all agree that visiting new places is great fun. You get to learn about different cultures, try things you've never tried before, discover new cuisines, maybe even take in a few museums or art galleries. You'll return home richer for the experience.
And it doesn't stop there.
Whether it's a quick weekend getaway or a round-the-world trip, you'll be pleased to hear that your adventures will also do wonders for your health too!
How? Let's take a look below.
1. It's great for your mental health
One of the main reasons for getting away from it all is to de-stress. You can relax by the pool or take in some fresh countryside air. Whatever it is, studies suggest it only takes a day or two of switching off for you to leave your troubles behind.
Too much stress isn't good for your mental health and taking a break once in awhile can protect you from further mental health issues, such as depression.
Visiting new places is also a great way to keep your brain active. When you're young, you're learning all the time. Mainly because you have to go to school. However, as you get older, your brain doesn't always get as much exercise as it used to.
Your next adventure could provide the mental stimulation your brain needs to keep it ticking over.
2. You'll get more exercise
Whether you're hiking in the hills or exploring a new city on foot (the best way to do it), you can bet that your step count will go through the roof.
The amount of walking you'll do while you're away will really help your cardiovascular health, especially if your normal day involves sitting behind a desk.
Now all you have to do is keep it up once you get home!
Streets ahead. Lincoln, Lincolnshire Splendid photography by the superb @snowflakesfairy Tag your outdoor and active photos with #ForHealthForLife for the chance to be featured.
Sep 7, 2017 at 4:06am PDT
3. It'll encourage healthy eating
Bored of eating the same meals over and over again?
Familiarising yourself with new foods could broaden your horizons and encourage you to cook fresh, healthy meals at home, rather than settling for a takeaway or ready meal.
Want to know where you can find the healthiest food? Check out our healthy holiday guide and see which country comes out on top!
4. You won't be bored
While many people use boredom as an opportunity to indulge their creative side, others turn to bad habits in an effort get rid of it.
You know the sort of thing we mean. You can all probably think of an occasion when you've eaten an unhealthy snack not because you were hungry, but because you couldn't think of anything better to do.
It's much easier to fill your days with interesting stuff if you're visiting somewhere new and exciting.
Expand your horizons, Lovely rainy day activities and photography from @lovegreatbritain & natural_history_museum Tag your outdoor or active photos with #ForHealthForLife for the chance to be featured.
Aug 17, 2017 at 4:17am PDT
5. You can boost your immune system
Depending on the places you visit, travel can expose you to a range of new environments, complete with diseases you might not get back home. The good news is that you'll be vaccinated against the most dangerous ones and when it comes to the rest, your clever old immune system is ready to step in.
It's a fast learner, so you'll likely return home better able to fight off conditions that'd leave your less well-travelled friends and work colleagues confined to their beds. You'll basically be a superhero, is what we're saying.
6. You'll improve your self esteem
Celebrating your successes is one of the best ways to boost your self esteem. If you have a low opinion of yourself, this can have an affect on your mental health and prevent you reaching your full potential.
Learning a new skill is an ideal way to make yourself feel great, and wherever you are in the world, there will always be a new activity to try. Why not give it a go?
7. Learning a new language is great for your brain
Going abroad? Try to learn a bit of the local lingo before you arrive.
Not only will your hosts appreciate it, there's also evidence to suggest that being multilingual improves your memory, attention span, decision making and ability to multitask. It could even give you a bigger brain. Sacra bleu!
Time to 'ruin' your weekend plans... Elgin Cathedral, Scotland. Lovely shot, by the brilliant @_laraebasta Tag your outdoor and active photos with #ForHealthForLife for the chance to be featured.
Sep 9, 2017 at 4:05am PDT
8. Travel can help you live longer
As health benefits go, it doesn't get much bigger than this one.
We've looked at how exploring and learning can lead to less stress, better heart health, better physical fitness and a healthier diet. What do all these things add up to? That's right, a longer, better life!
Looking after your mental health has the same effect. Research suggests that continuing to learn new things into old age can increase life expectancy. In other words, you should keep going on adventures whenever you can!
Looking after your health online
Do you know what else is good for a long and healthy life? Being able to see a doctor when you need one.
With Push Doctor, it's easier than ever to look after your health while you're away. Our doctors can see you wherever you are and offer advice on how to deal with a range of medical conditions. Make sure you download our app before your next trip!
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