Those opening paragraphs 100% truth!
People that haven't travelled just don't understand how much you learn. even just the planning and getting there teaches you so much about yourself and the world.

I was lucky enough to have three trips to Europe and a few smaller overseas trip before I was 21 and I think they shaped a lot of me.
my next big trip is going to be Africa to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro. I can't wait!

glad you enjoyed your Mexico trip, keep traveling! :)