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RON & MARY’S EDITOR’S NOTE
Wander, Explore, Thrive: The Health Benefits of Travel
e knew it: travel is good for you— travel. We break out of our home routine of
not just adventure-wise, but driving to shop, dine, or explore. Instead, we
W health-wise as well. If you're look- walk to markets and cafes and shop for tasty,
ing to stay vigorous and vibrant, travel just fresh food daily versus driving to Trader Joe's
might be the key. According to a recent study once a week. We are out and about, away from
from Edith Cowan University in Australia, computer screens and TV noise.
travel offers benefits that can delay the aging In addition to cognitive and physical perks,
process. The combination of social interaction, travel—especially cruising—has a well-docu-
physical activity, mental stimulation, and ex- mented ability to reduce the chronic stress
posure to healthy, diverse cuisines all help that causes health issues. It provides an op-
mitigate the effects of aging. Whether you're portunity to unwind and leave everyday pres-
walking through nature, immersing yourself in sures behind. The study from Edith Cowan
new cultures, or simply relaxing by the beach, highlights the importance of travel’s "low en-
the health benefits of travel are undeniable. tropy," or the state of relaxation that helps the
Travel promotes physical activity, which is body reset and function more efficiently.
crucial for heart health and reducing inflam- For those concerned about diet (and you
mation. It also provides mental stimulation know how interested we are in food), the
that can help maintain cognitive function. Ac- Mediterranean diet—often highlighted in
cording to a study by Matador Network, trav- travel destinations like Spain, Greece, and
eling increases cognitive flexibility, keeping Italy—is known for its longevity benefits. Re-
your brain sharp as you encounter new envi- search published by the JAMA Network found
ronments, cultures, and experiences. These that people on this diet live significantly
mental workouts can protect against mental longer.
decline and diseases like dementia by building In essence, travel isn't just about adven-
resilience in the brain. ture—it's a fun and exciting way to maintain
Travel's mental and physical engagement is youthfulness. So, the next time you're planning
exercise disguised as fun, offering long-lasting a trip, remember that your passport could be
benefits. Whether touring, walking city your ticket to a healthier, longer life. Safe and
streets, or navigating mammoth airports, we healthy travels!
walk three to four times as much when we
Ron & Mary James
Publishers & Editors
6 WINE DINE & TRAVEL MAGAZINE WINTER 2025
