Travel anxiety is a complex beast, and one that I, as an academic and journalist with a personal history of anxiety disorders, have been exploring in depth. In my new book, “The Years of Travelling Anxiously,” I delve into the myriad triggers that can set off travel anxiety, from the obvious to the more subtle. Today, I want to share some insights and tips from major thinkers in the field, offering a unique perspective on how to navigate and overcome these anxieties.
Prioritizing Urban Wellbeing
When we travel to cities, especially modern urban centers, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and anxious. Psychologist Colin Ellard, in his book “Places of the Heart,” highlights the impact of “neighborhood cohesion,” exposure to environmental factors, and urban planning on our mental state. Similarly, French theorist Paul Virilio emphasizes the psychological dislocation that can result from the fast-paced, information-saturated environment of the metropolis. Ellard’s research shows that urban explorers experience physiological changes, with spikes in adrenaline and blood pressure.
So, what can we do? Ellard suggests seeking out green spaces, smooth architecture, and natural light when arriving in a new place. These elements can help calm our nerves and provide a sense of comfort and familiarity in an otherwise unfamiliar setting.
Navigating Cross-Cultural Communication
Travel often involves interacting with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, which can be both enriching and challenging. Sociologist Debbie Lisle refers to this as “cross-cultural communication.” In my own travels, I’ve encountered people with vastly different identities and experiences, and it’s easy to unintentionally cause offense or display entitlement.
Knowledge is power in this context. By familiarizing ourselves with critical works like Edward Said’s “Orientalism,” which critiques Western portrayals of the non-Western world, we can begin to understand and respect the ethical and political responsibilities we have towards others. This awareness can help us navigate these cultural differences with sensitivity and openness.
Embracing Anxiety as a Teacher
The Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard offers an intriguing perspective on anxiety. He argues that anxiety is a necessary condition for freedom and learning. When we travel, we often seek freedom and new experiences, but if these come too easily, without any challenges or obstacles, we miss out on the opportunity to learn and grow.
This idea is echoed in human stories across cultures, which often focus on the hero’s journey and the challenges they face, rather than the resolution. As Tom Waits puts it, “The obsession’s in the chasing and not the apprehending.” So, perhaps we should view travel anxiety not as something to be avoided, but as a guide, helping us to engage more deeply with our experiences.
Eco-Anxiety and Climate Action
Travel, particularly air travel, has a significant environmental impact. Flying contributes to a substantial portion of global carbon emissions, and as travelers, we often contribute to the over-development and destruction of natural habitats, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
Economist Alessandro Capocchi and colleagues have coined the term “overtourism” to describe this phenomenon. Radical ecologist Andreas Malm and philosopher Bruno Latour suggest that eco-anxiety can be channeled into climate activism and a deeper understanding of the interdependence between humanity and nature. Latour encourages us to “mobilize” our resources to shift our focus to our shared terrestrial condition.
In the context of travel, this might mean choosing sustainable tourist sites and minimizing our carbon footprint. By doing so, we can reduce feelings of guilt and hypocrisy, and travel with a clearer conscience.
The Power of Shared Experience
Playwright Alan Bennett highlights the reassurance we find in literature that articulates our own thoughts and feelings. Similarly, knowing that great thinkers have grappled with anxiety can provide comfort and a sense of shared humanity. Before your next trip, consider delving into some of the recommended reading, from Kierkegaard’s “The Concept of Anxiety” to Latour’s “How to Inhabit the Earth.”
Travel anxiety is a complex and personal issue, but by understanding and addressing its various triggers, we can transform our travel experiences into opportunities for growth and connection. So, the next time you feel those nerves kicking in, remember that you’re not alone, and there are strategies and insights to help you navigate these feelings.
