Today, during the first leg of my trip to Europe, I witnessed several instances of one of the things I love about travel. No, it wasn’t an amazing new vista or historical site (though I did have several gorgeous views of Cascade mountain peaks as I flew north from Medford, Ore., to Seattle). It wasn’t a charming street scene or a meeting of two diverse cultures (though I love those, too). Instead, I saw strangers with nothing more apparently in common than that both were travelers, sharing stories of their journeys and experiences with each other. I was one of those individuals, in an exchange in the Portland International Airport between flights. I had just fielded a call from my sister Julie, and my side of the conversation included references to London and Venice. When the call ended, a pleasant young woman seated across from me asked if I was going to Venice. Her face lit up when I said I was, and she eagerly shared what a beautiful, strange, wonderful place it is. She told me of a lovely small church near Piazza San Marco where Vivaldi had worked and his music performed. She raved about the fantastic acoustics and the concert she had attended there. (A little research revealed the name of the church, Santa Maria della Visitazone, known generally as La Pieta.) We shared a few stories about London, and then went on our separate ways, wishing each other a good journey. It was just the sort of personal tidbit I’ve been keeping an ear out for since I knew this trip was in the works — another traveler’s enthusiastic recommendation based on a positive experience in a new place. Later, at SeaTac Airport, I overheard a conversation between two women who began sharing their separate experiences in Australia. I saw how both became animated as they recalled highlights of obviously happy and exciting trips. Still later in the evening, as I sat at a restaurant, I observed two sets of diners at adjoining tables bridge the gap between them as they swapped stories of their just-completed Alaska cruises. In all of these cases, I saw again how those who love to travel also love to share their experiences with others. Surely part of that willingness is a chance to relive these vibrant events, but I also sense a generosity and camaraderie. They are eager to offer helpful information and steer their fellow globe trotters towards the best the world has to offer. It reminds me how much is wonderful and good out there to be enjoyed and shared with others who love to see what’s just beyond the horizon.  Happy travels! –Patty Vanikiotis, proofreader