Chapter 1: The Joy of Travel

Traveling is something I deeply missed during the Covid pandemic. Like many others, I had to put my travel plans on hold, uncertain if I could embark on any journeys before the year's end.

There's a reason why travel makes us feel invincible and almost magical—it's addictive. However, there's a scientific basis for the joy that travel brings. Our brains are wired to seek novelty. Neurobiologists have long recognized that new environments trigger exploration and learning, though there is still much to uncover about our brain's inherent preference for novelty. The brain's 'novelty center'—known as the substantia nigra/ventral tegmental area (SN/VTA)—is activated by unexpected stimuli, emotional responses, or the need for behavioral engagement.

Interestingly, while I often believe that the best part of a trip is the moment I arrive, studies indicate that the peak of happiness actually comes during the planning phase. The anticipation of upcoming adventures fills us with joy. In contrast, post-trip happiness hinges on how relaxi