Oh, we've all been there. It's that horrible, surreal, dream-like state that we find ourselves in after we have traveled for way too long. And it doesn't matter if it is a 3-hour trip or a 36-hour trip, jet lag makes you feel like life chewed you up and spit you out and then expects you to look good afterward.

Several years ago, I traveled to South Africa for work. By the time I arrived, I had been traveling for nearly 30 hours and I was tired, disoriented and it was dark. It is always hard to get your bearings in a new place when it is dark.  My colleague picked me up and we drove over an hour to a remote town where we were to be guests of the family who spearheaded our project.

When I dragged my tired body through their front door, the most amazing smell greeted me: it smelled exactly like Thanksgiving dinner. There are no words to describe just how good turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, fresh bread and green beans can taste to a very weary traveler. Who would have thought that jet lag and Thanksgiving dinner go so well together?!

Among the many memories I have of that trip, my host family's generosity and kindness stand out.  I was a stranger in a foreign land and their thoughtfulness made me feel like I was a little closer to home. A simple meal, a kind word, a warm blanket, a familiar face can make all the difference in the world when you are on the road.

In what ways have you been warmly welcomed when you have traveled?