A Conversation with Neil Mars

Last year, I had the chance to speak at my daughter’s preschool career day about being a scientist. Imagine explaining science to 2- to 5-year-olds! It was an impromptu talk, and I quickly realized I was losing their attention. So, I asked, Who likes to travel? Every hand shot up!

As a scientist, I’ve had the privilege of traveling to a number of exotic places—and I absolutely loved it! Stepping outside the culture and people I’m accustomed to has always broadened my perspective and sparked my curiosity.

But today’s story isn’t about me. It’s about Neil Mars, a fellow traveler in our community. Despite his demanding role as the Assistant Director of Hospitals for Pediatric Primary Care and Sub-Specialty Practices and being an accountant by profession (yes, that’s quite a mouthful!), Neil still makes time to see the world.

He prefers to travel in groups, as he finds it allows him to explore more destinations and enjoy richer, more meaningful experiences.

Exploring the World with Neil Mars

Sanchia: Hi Neil, how are you?

Neil: I am thankful and grateful. I’m doing wonderful.

Sanchia: I’ve done some traveling myself, and it truly broadens the mind. Tell us about some of the places you’ve visited and what those experiences have been like for you.

Neil: Over the past three years, I’ve traveled to Egypt, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Peru, and Bolivia. Egypt was especially incredible. I journeyed along the Nile River, retracing the very path the Israelites took during their exodus. It’s remarkable to think that a journey which could have taken just days ended up lasting forty years. Being there brought their story to life in a way I’d never imagined. Standing before the Great Pyramids left me in awe—how did they manage to construct such precise and massive structures without modern technology?

Great Pyramids

In South Africa,I visited four provinces and felt an unexpected sense of belonging. The safari was breathtaking, and Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls—one of the natural wonders of the world—was truly awe-inspiring.

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Safari, South Africa

Then, in Peru and Bolivia, I explored the ancient Inca Empire. Machu Picchu was stunning, but the altitude in Cusco was challenging. I fainted, and my friend caught me just in time. I thank God for His grace and mercy!

Machu Picchu, Peru.

Natural Salt Mineral, Peru.

In college I minored in history and majored in political science, so traveling allows me to experience history firsthand. Every year, I celebrate my birthday by visiting a new country.

The Spiritual Element of Travel

Sanchia: I hear awe and excitement—you’re truly doing what you love. Does travel have a spiritual aspect for you?

Neil: Absolutely. Egypt felt like Holy Ground. In South Africa and Peru, I also sensed a strong spiritual connection. Walking through ancient temples and seeing depictions of Christ, like the Last Supper, deepened my perspective.

Travel and Mental Growth

Sanchia: How has travel shaped your mindset?

Neil: Travel gives me a new perspective on life. Experiencing different cultures firsthand changes my outlook. I return home with a renewed sense of self-worth and a greater appreciation for the world.

Building Connections Through Travel

Sanchia: You travel in groups—do you know the people beforehand?

Neil: Some, but not all. I usually travel with a friend, but we meet people from all over—Sweden, Connecticut, Philadelphia, Massachusetts and many more countries. I book my trips through Gate1travels, which provides an all-inclusive experience with a tour manager.

That’s one of the best parts—building relationships. Some members of our group have visited 60 to 80 countries! We’ve had travelers as young as 11 and as old as 80. The children even complete their schoolwork while on the road.

The Journey Continues

Neil’s adventures have deepened his faith, broadened his mind, and connected him with people from all walks of life. His next stop? Morocco.

I, too, have traveled to Peru—and it was a truly transformative experience. Spending several months in Lima and visiting Machu Picchu changed me in ways I didn’t expect. Travel nurtures spiritual, mental, emotional, relational, and recreational growth in ways that are often hard to put into words. It draws us back to God, His awe-inspiring creation, and for those of us who believe, it deepens our relationship with Him. This in turn helps us to make connections that are usually hidden.

As we make plans for our lives, let’s be intentional about including travel. It comes with countless benefits. As Neil wisely says, “We can’t just stay in the same place all the time—we’ve got to get out and explore!”

Have you had the opportunity to travel outside of the culture and people you are accustomed to? 

How has travel shaped your life?

With love and growth,
Sanchia.