In my experience, we humans are either travel-focused or destination-focused. The latter group are almost exclusively interested in their destination, whether it be a city, a beach, a ski resort or some other specific location. For them, travel is an inconvenience that must be endured and they are happy to sleep through it if possible; they choose aisle seats on airlines, snooze on trains and prefer that others drive the car so they can read, surf the internet or sleep.
Travelers, on the other hand, enjoy the journey as much as the destination. We want to experience the topography, geography and ecosystems through which we travel. We want to know what rivers we cross, what mountains rise in the distance and what wildlife we might expect to see. Our destination is not an isolated location but one that fits within the surrounding landscape.
In general, travelers are more likely to value the health of our natural environment and thus more inclined to commit themselves to its conservation. When we understand the interdependence of a destination with its climate, weather, hydrology and ecosystem, we see far more than its urban delights, its scenery and its recreational opportunities. Our planet needs more travelers.
