VitorMSAlmeida.pt

I enjoy traveling (and I was alone, which is why I got Bitó to keep me company), but what kind of impact does it have?

There’s an interesting relationship between intelligence quotient (IQ) and travel. Although it’s not a direct or causal relationship (IQ doesn’t determine who travels, nor does traveling automatically increase IQ), there are proven correlations and benefits in both directions. Let me explain clearly:

1. Do people with higher IQs tend to travel more?
Studies and observations show a positive correlation: individuals with higher intelligence (measured by IQ or similar indicators) generally travel more, especially internationally. This is due to factors such as:
Greater intellectual curiosity and openness to new experiences (a personality trait linked to high IQ).
Better financial and educational capacity (high IQ correlates with better career and income opportunities).
Greater cognitive flexibility to plan and deal with unforeseen events while traveling.

2. Does traveling make you smarter?
Yes, traveling stimulates the brain in several ways and can improve cognitive functions: New experiences activate brain areas linked to spatial navigation, memory, and attention.
Planning (itineraries, budgets, reservations) works on the brain’s executive functions.
Exposure to different cultures increases creativity, cognitive flexibility, and empathy.
Studies indicate that traveling improves memory, focus, and even “cultural intelligence” (the ability to adapt to new contexts).
Researchers like Adam Galinsky (Harvard) show that travel increases creativity, depth of thought, and mental flexibility—skills that IQ tests value.
Specific benefits of traveling for the brain: Stimulates neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to reorganize itself).
Reduces the risk of cognitive decline (similar to learning new things).
Develops different types of intelligence: emotional, cultural, social, and even financial (by managing travel expenses).

Caution: Traveling a lot without reflection or real immersion (just “ticking countries”) may not bring as many gains. Quality matters more than quantity.

Relationship with IQ/Travel:
High IQ → Travel: Positive tendency (more curiosity and resources)
Travel → Intelligence: Improves cognitive functions and creativity
Main benefits: Memory, empathy, flexibility, adaptability

If you travel frequently, you’re giving your brain a good “workout”!

Currently (with rare exceptions), I’m taking short trips, as the dog can’t yet comfortably travel long distances by plane, but he behaves much better than most people in hotel stays, car and boat transport. I’ll have to be patient and wait a few months (as the canine passport, special vaccinations, and training have already been done).

But not everything is positive; for example, it can reveal some characteristics:
> Opportunistic/gold-digging behavior during a trip:
Never contributes (or is reduced) to costs (accommodation, food, tours, transport) and makes a “poor thing” face.
Alternatively, when traveling alone, you prefer the homes or availability of friends, staying as “glue.”
You always choose the most expensive places and feel uncomfortable with budget options.
It disappears or replaces the interest when the luxury ends.
> Travel addiction:
Ecdemomania: Described as a “morbid impulse or obsession to travel or wander.” It is characterized by a constant desire to be away from home, with irritation or sadness upon returning to routine.
Wanderlust (traveler’s syndrome or “wanderlust syndrome”): Popular term for the strong desire to see new places, explore, and escape routine. It is more of a personality trait than a disease. Many people identify with it: they plan their next trip as soon as they return from one.

So, let’s travel without “bad company” (it’s preferable to travel alone) and in a non-obsessive way.