By Briana Seftel
We've all been there. Lost luggage, not knowing the native language, stranded because of bad weather, missed flight. No one said travel was perfect!
In need of divine intervention? Take a look at these seven travel deities to help you on your next journey.
Neptune
Everyone knows Neptune as the Roman god of the sea, but did you know he's also the god of sea travel? Seafaring Romans sought his favor before undertaking voyages on the seas. In Homer’s "Odyssey," Neptune delayed the return of Odysseus from the Trojan War by causing his ship to wreck.
Abeona
In Roman mythology, Abeona is known as the Goddess of Outward Journeys. Not only does she protect travelers, but she also watches over the travels of young children. Her partner is Adiona, referred to as the Goddess of Safe Return. Together, these two are the power couple of travel.
Xaman Ek
In ancient Mayan culture, Xaman Ek is known as the "guide of the merchants" or the god of direction. Merchants would offer incense to Xaman Ek at altars on the road while traveling.
Meili
In Norse mythology, Meili (meaning mile-stepper) is considered to be the god of travel. Son of Odin and brother of Thor (yes...that Thor), Meili was also referred to as "the lovely one" but not much else is known about him.
St. Christopher
In Catholicism, St. Christopher is the patron saint of travelers. Legend has it he carried a child, who was unknown to him, across a river before the child revealed himself as Christ. Statues of St. Christopher can be seen all over the world, inlcuding one on the Charles Bridge in Prague.
Hermes
Consider Hermes a jack-of-all-trades: in Greek mythology, he is the patron god of travel, sports, invention, art, literature, and trade. The son of Zeus, he was a cunning trickster and moved easily between the divine and mortal worlds. In certain images, Hermes can be seen wearing a traveler’s cap!
Lord Ganesh
Also known as Ganesha, Lord Ganesh is the Hindu patron god of success, education, wisdom, wealth, and travel - not to mention the remover of obstacles. Found throughout India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Nepal, his elephant head makes him easy to identify.
