The Travel–Research–Teaching Nexus

In academic circles, travel is often thought of as a necessary component of doing research and disseminating research findings—or as something one does for personal enrichment when teaching and research commitments do not intervene. Less attention is given to the role travel can play in stimulating research and teaching ideas, with profound impacts on the trajectory of people’s professional careers. Drawing on a range of travel experiences in over 100 countries, this essay explores how travel opportunities have shaped the development of the author’s career as a professional geographer—influencing teaching and research, and facilitating personally and professionally enriching relationships and opportunities. An examination of travel in this light has the potential to expand appreciation for the complex ways in which travel, research, teaching, and professional/personal development are interconnected.