WITH Why We Travel, award-winning journalist, author and keynote speaker, Ash Bhardwaj shatters the glossy veneer of travel brochures by delving into the human desire to explore.
The captivating blend of memoir and travelogue tackles big questions: What drives us to venture beyond the familiar? How can travel enrich our lives? Bhardwaj dismantles the simplistic ‘eat, rest, relax’ model often promoted by travel companies by revealing the transformative power hidden within the journey.
Structured around 12 distinct travel motivations, the book takes us on a journey. Each chapter becomes a portal to self-discovery, sparked by the author’s personal stories. We witness the transformation of grief into hope when he takes a moving pilgrimage to scatter his estranged father’s ashes.
There is also his thrilling 8,500 km journey along Russia’s European border, which brush with the KGB, and becomes a lens for understanding unfamiliar perspectives. Bhardwaj’s writing is evocative, transporting us through vivid descriptions to experience the vibrant cultures of Sudan, Ukraine, New Zealand, and Nepal.
Why We Travel goes beyond exotic adventures. Bhardwaj argues that the motivations for travel, like curiosity, healing, or service, aren’t limited to grand expeditions.
The multi-layered book inspires us to find these same motivations within our daily lives. Packed with scientific evidence, insightful interviews with thought leaders, and his own moving experiences, the book becomes a guide to unlocking wonder anywhere.
Whether it’s seeking inspiration in a local museum or finding empathy through volunteering, Bhardwaj shows us how to transform everyday experiences into self-discovery.
This ultimately becomes a mustread for anyone looking to understand the deeper meaning behind wanderlust. It’s a book not just for adventurers, but for anyone curious about the psychology of travel and its profound impact on who we are. It is an exploration of ourselves and the world, offering an argument that travel, in all its forms, can lead us to a more fulfilling life.
Sandhya Suri poses during a photocall for the film "Santosh" at the 77th edition of the Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, southern France, on May 21, 2024. 
Bhumi Pednekar