IMO, most of what we call travel is synthetic. If you are traveling as a couple you are unlikely to meet many people who are not trying to exploit you in some way or other. If you travel alone it is different- there you just need to be aware of the microbiological environment. And carry cash if you are male.
It helps to live somewhere that you consider beautiful and satisfying, so you are happy where you are.
If you know the language and can make connections, IMO travel is worth the effort and risk. Otherwise, stay home. Much of what we think is exotic or charming is only that because we don't understand the language or the customs. Or don't understand the hostility behind the groveling of the wait-staff in our hotels
Also, if you are really rich, and can travel essentially insulated from local problems, why not?
The only thing I really would like to see again is the Museo del Oro en Bogota. I might go, but I also don't want to get my throat slit going to clubs, and I know myself.
http://www2.dsu.nodak.edu/users/fernando/colombia2001/bogota/museo/museodeloro.htm
BTW, I know more than one person who died an untimely death from travel related injuries or illnesses. Return from Africa, have abdominal pain, get typically poor workup re: tropical disease, rupture an amebic hepatic cyst, and die.
I remember from my childhood watching that poor schmuck the Duke of Windsor get dragged around the world by his ugly wife. I asked my Dad, doesn't that guy have a business or family? When told he used to be a King I figure I had finally encountered a definition of foolishness that would last me a lifetime.
Ha