elcome to another feature in our series celebrating the vibrant lives of women travelers in our community. Our journey today leads us to the inspiring narrative of Premlata, a seasoned traveler whose passion for exploration, cultural immersion, and the joy of discovery epitomizes the transformative power of travel. Premlata's passion for travel traces back to her childhood when she accompanied her father on yearly exhilarating road trips. This early exposure to the joys of exploring new places laid the foundation for a lifelong passion. “We went on road trips every year. Then, as luck would have it, I entered the travel trade, which took me to several destinations and provided adventurous experiences. I'm very passionate about traveling because, to me, experiences are what truly matters.”

Reflecting on her most memorable trips post-50, Premlata fondly recalls her journey to Japan to witness the enchanting Cherry blossom, a gift from her son on her 60th birthday. The warmth and humility displayed by the Japanese people left a lasting impression on her: "From the moment we landed at Tokyo airport, we were greeted with remarkable humility and patience. I recall an incident where I approached a lady official with some inquiries. Upon realizing she had provided incorrect information, she went to great lengths to find me, even locating us on a moving train. Her sincere apologies, expressed through numerous bows, exemplified the honesty, humility, and patience ingrained in Japanese culture. This was just one of many instances that showcased the admirable qualities of the Japanese people." 

One of Premlata's most memorable journeys came after her 50th birthday, a week-long trip to Japan to witness the cherry blossom season, a gift from her son. This trip, marking her 60th year, was nothing short of magical. "From the time of landing at Tokyo airport, we witnessed such humility and patience that the Japanese have," she shares. An airport incident where an official went out of her way to correct a mistake left a lasting impression on Premlata, showcasing the remarkable humility and honesty that characterized her experience in Japan. 

In today's fast-paced world, travel is not merely a journey from one place to another; it's a transformative experience, a classroom without walls where we learn about cultures, histories, and, most importantly, ourselves. As Premlata shares, "Travel teaches us to adapt to the local culture, environment, and food," reflecting on how her journeys have broadened her horizons. "In Japan, no garbage bins can be found on the roads because of labor shortage. We found posters everywhere saying, please carry your garbage back home. The roads were spick and span; not even a tiny bit of paper could be found anywhere. If others can do it, if we can do it in a foreign environment, why not in our own country?” she explains. She also noted the phone etiquette in Japan, where people prefer messaging to speaking loudly on phones in public transport, a lesson in courtesy that she found lacking back home. Premlata's deep connection with the Japanese people and their culture is a testament to the universal values that bind us all despite geographical differences. "Most Asian countries have the same values and principles, but somehow, in India, a lot of Western influence has taken over," she recalls, reflecting on the graciousness observed in Japan. This sentiment resonated with her experiences in France and Germany as well. 

To other women in our community thinking about going on their own travel adventures, Premlata shares, "Travel opens up your mind, frees us from inhibitions we may have unknowingly imbibed. I have had a wonderful solo travel experience in February 2023. When I had an extra day at the last minute, I visited a village called Moyang in Assam. A friend insisted I visit the village because of high spiritual energy but when I checked on the internet, I found it was known as the “Black Magic” capital of India. Although initially reluctant, I went ahead and visited the place, and I am so thankful that I did. It was an amazing experience, and I wish I had another two days to learn more about the place and meet some more people,” Premlata will soon share her experiences in a travel article on GetSetUp. 

On a concluding note, she shares, "Woman, go solo, go adventurous, know yourself, teach, learn, imbibe, learn to be yourself. Remaining cocooned, we tend to have pent-up emotions. Travel helps us release emotions; travel helps us be our own selves! Solo travel helps us connect with our inner self; we realize the value of aloneness. It helps in problem-solving, decision-making, and adapting to unfamiliar circumstances, people, and situations. It’s a journey of self-discovery while being exposed to new cultures." 

Premlata's story is a vivid reminder of the joy, growth, and fulfillment that travel can bring into our lives, especially as we embrace the opportunities of active aging. Travel is not just about the places we visit but the lessons we learn and the people we become along the way. 

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