To me, traveling is about experiencing new things or do things differently. It's also a learning experience that each trip should allow you to learn and understand not just about others but also yourself.

During my travels, I learned a few things myself and develop some personal lessons, observations, and philosophies. Here are a few:

- Travel light. Pretty much any experienced traveler will tell you that yet it still can't be stressed enough. You don't want excess baggage. Literally and figuratively. Travel only with the essentials and use them efficiently. If you need help carrying it, ask yourself if you really need it.

- You can never plan too much but your plans must be flexible. Plan for the little details that make your trip that much better and let adventure handle the big stuff. On my last trip to DC, I spent considerable efforts to pick the right hotel that is close to the Mall and between two or three subway lines, bought a 7 day Metro pass, and made reservations to meet my Senator, visit Pentagon, Washington Monument, and White House. But between those key visits, I simply explored and let random curiosities take me to other places to see, eat, and do.

- Don't always rely on GPS, maps, and guides. Once you get the general layout of an area, don't be afraid to try a different path as you return to your hotel each day. You'll often discover interesting things you would've missed if you take the same path every time.

- Try not to do things you can do at home. I hate when my friends and families travel only to eat and shop at places that are available at home. It makes no sense to me.

- Never underestimate or look down on the idea of traveling alone. Everyone should do it at least once. Go somewhere you've never been to without your friends or family. Of course, only do it in safe destinations and you can still make new local friends or join groups.

- Be curious.

- Sometimes, try being someone else. It's a hoot. You are at a different place, be different. Pretend you're someone else for a day. Again, for my trip to DC, I chose to wear my fancier clothes to the airport so that I don't have to pack it in my carry-on. I don't know what it was, but the check-in attendant made small talk asking, "They're sending you on another business trip, huh?" I just went with it and told her I was a photojournalist commissioned by a local magazine to cover the Cherry Blossom Festival. It's not far from the truth since I am an amateur hobbyist photographer and I did have my gear.

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