Travel, for young people, is part of their education; for older people, it’s part of their experience. Someone who visits a country without knowing even a bit of the language isn’t really traveling—they’re just going to school. It’s wise for young people to travel with a tutor or a responsible companion, someone who knows the language and has been to the country before. This guide can point out what’s worth seeing, who they should meet, and what skills or disciplines the place has to offer. Without such help, young travelers are like blindfolded birds—able to look around, but not really see.
It’s odd that people on sea voyages, with nothing but water and sky around, often keep detailed diaries, but on land, where there’s so much to observe, they usually don’t bother. This habit should change—keeping a diary during travel is essential. The key things to observe are the courts of rulers, especially when they meet ambassadors; courts of justice as they handle cases; and even religious councils. Churches, monasteries, and their monuments are worth noting, as are city walls, fortifications, ports, and harbors. Travelers should seek out ancient ruins, libraries, colleges, debates, and lectures. They should also examine ships and naval fleets, grand houses and gardens, armories, marketplaces, warehouses, and military exercises. Entertainment like plays, especially those attended by respectable people, is valuable too, as are treasuries filled with jewels or rare items. In short, anything memorable in a place deserves attention, and tutors or guides should help travelers dig deeper into these experiences.
As for public spectacles—like parades, feasts, weddings, funerals, or even executions—these don’t need special reminders, as they naturally catch the eye. But they shouldn’t be ignored either.
If you want a young person to get the most out of their travels in a short time, here’s what to do: First, they must learn some of the language before they leave. Then, they need a guide familiar with the country. They should also carry a map or guidebook about the region—they’re great tools for asking better questions. A diary is essential. They shouldn’t stay too long in one place, only as long as the location’s worth it. When they do stay in a city, they should change lodging often, moving from one area to another. This is a great way to meet new people. They should avoid sticking with their fellow countrymen and instead eat and socialize where they can meet locals. When moving to a new city, they should seek recommendations to meet reputable locals who can open doors to new opportunities. This approach can turn even a short trip into something very rewarding.
The best connections to make during travel are with ambassadors’ secretaries or officials. Through them, one can learn about many countries while staying in just one. Meeting famous or important people in different fields is also valuable—it helps to see how their real lives measure up to their reputations.
Travelers must avoid quarrels at all costs. These usually arise over love interests, drinking toasts, seating arrangements, or careless words. Avoid hotheaded, argumentative people—they will drag you into their fights.
When returning home, travelers shouldn’t entirely leave their experiences behind. They should stay in touch with their most valuable acquaintances through letters. Their travels should show more in how they speak than in how they dress or behave. And in their conversations, they should answer thoughtfully rather than rushing to tell stories. Finally, they shouldn’t abandon their native manners entirely but instead weave in small, valuable lessons learned abroad, enriching their lives without losing their roots.
Bacon Blueprint 