Touring is probably one of the most elective activities that you'll engage in. There is no boss, authority, or family member commanding-pleading-cajoling you to go on a bike tour. The only reason to tour is because you want to. The motivation and desire must come from within or there's no reason to do it.

For me wanderlust is part of it, but so is the feeling of self-sufficiency, the physical challenge, but the sense of adventure is what I seek and find the most compelling.