The smell of fresh fish and seafood in Pike Place Market. The feel of the soft alpaca fur woven together into a blanket from Chile. The tall green pine trees and Kaministiquia River surrounding Thunder Bay, Canada. The rev of the plane engine on the tarmac before it takes flight. The bitter taste of an IPA beer made from Lake Superior water. Exploring different places allows us to experience new things, whether it's a small town of 1,300 people to a city of half a million and a small pond to the Nile River. Here are four things that help me to explore more and be in the moment:

1. Walk More

It saves money and is beneficial for your health. According to the Mayo Clinic, walking can help maintain a healthy weight, strengthen your bones and muscles, and improve your mood. Walking helps me understand or get a feel for the city. It allows me to take in the sights, smells, and sounds that aren't easy to observe in a car or bus.

2. Pack Light

It saves money on a plane and space in a car. You can re-wear clothes and wear layers. Get a compression sack or roll your clothes to save room. Packing light allows me to pick up my backpack without lugging a giant suitcase around. It gives me freedom and flexibility to explore. I prefer less stress about what I'm wearing and more focus on the travel experience.

3. Drink Water

The Mayo Clinic states that "every cell, tissue, and organ in your body needs water to work properly". When traveling, it's essential to make sure you're sneaking water into your days. Invest in a water bottle of your choice. If you want a cocktail, pair it with a glass of water. Nothing ruins a trip like unhealthy bowel movements.

4. Capture the Adventures

While traveling, take pictures and videos, write down moments and observations, draw and paint. From selfies to sculpting the scenery, capturing the moments through art will put you in the moment. By pausing and looking at the details, it allows you to connect with the world in front of you.

It's exciting to visit new places and build connections. You don't have to pay a fortune to get satisfaction out of a trip. Walking more, packing light, and drinking water are simple acts. Capturing the adventures helps me enjoy my travels and excites me for the next one. If you take a trip to your grandparents' house or hike the Pacific Crest Trail, pause, listen, and notice things. Explore more and search for the little moments that spark your senses.