Traveling for a Homebody

"So much of who we are is where we have been."
— William Langewiesche

Home is the most comfortable place in the world for an introvert and homebody like me. I seldom leave my room on weekends, unless I absolutely need to. When my friends want to go somewhere on a weekend, I would say no or make an excuse because that's the only time I can enjoy my own peace. I always wonder why they get bored if they stay at home when I feel most alive and happy during those times.

But sometimes, I also dream of going to places besides my bedroom. I want to visit beaches, forests, parks, museums and places where I can feel the serenity similar to home. However, thinking about the travel already exhaust my mind. There's a constant worry behind my desire because of uncertainties, my social battery, the time and effort.

As an introvert, I crave both peace and familiarity. My love for comfort always comes first and traveling to somewhere unknown to my system gives me a wave of anxiety. This is why I prefer staying at home. Because here, I am comfortable. I am safe. I am at peace.

But there are times when my body and mind are on the verge of giving, times when home becomes suffocating enough, and the only thing I can do is run away. During those dark times, I travel. I travel far away to find some breathing space. To get away from toxicity and to escape the polluted and noisy city.

I always like to be welcomed by the fresh air and morning dew from the forest trees, the gentle breeze and the calming sound of the waves from the sea, and the pleasant silence of museums and cafes. Staying in places like these makes my heart light and gives me a peace of mind. It flushes the worries and troubles that piled up from stressful situations.

But at the end of the day, I always look forward to the familiar comfort and warmth of my own bedroom.

The relief that I am finally going home.