What it means to Live a Life by Experience

In my Travel book The Freedom Project I introduced the concept of Experience Value which I’ve used extensively in my travels. The reason I travel is to undergo a certain experience, whether it’s just to smell or taste a different culture, to swim with dolphins or just sit on the beach for the day. Travel brings all sorts of interesting experiences I couldn’t have had when I stayed at home on the couch in front of my TV. I could have watched a documentary on dolphins, but I wouldn’t have been able to feel the sensation of one pulling me through Caribbean ocean water.

Experience value is something I take home with me as a mental souvenir from any trip I go on. Experience Value transcends financial value, and sometimes I’d rather spend a little more money if that allows me to undergo a certain experience. Flying a helicopter over Manhattan became a bit more complicated (and expensive) after 9/11, but was worth every penny. Experience Value also means I’d rather not do certain things while…