Maybe it's the idea of going out into the world and taking your message and vision out there... that would work witht he idea of travel anyway.... without it necessarily being a spiritual/ religious thing.............???????????????

and what is she holding???

You are right: the 4 corners depict the 4 archangels or, rather, the symbols associated with them. But, being an agnostic myself, I am out of my depth here and cannot give you their names.

For me, the meaning of this card is the completion of a cycle within the bigger cycle that comprises our lifespan. Something like having mastered the challenges of one of the major arcana stages before tackling the next, although I believe we go back to each of them time after time and learn each from a different perspective.

In this sense, the 4 figures might be benignly supervising our efforts and celebrating our triumphs with us, so to speak. Since I am not religious, to me it is our inner serene self watching our growing process and making us feel good about our success in order to keep us motivated.

She -although many decks describe the figure as hermaphrodite- is holding a couple of wands just like the Magician's. In his case it might be pointing at his potential to do things, while in the World's they could be picturing proven abilities. Just a thought, though  

The four characters (heads) on the World card are also present on the Wheel of Fortune.
Lion, Bull, Eagle and a human.

Four mythical characters in four corners: these are varous strengths and wisdoms (see how they are all 'reading' a book - source of knowledge and wisdom) which we encounter along our journey.
The human is listening to the spirits and carrying the messages of the Universe.

The wreath made of green leaves signifies perpetual movement - as the shape - cricle - indicates.

I look at this card as Attainment and/or Completion of a certain goal or a cyle in our journey of lilfe - not the whole life, mind you, as this journey ends another one is bound to begin.

I feel good with this card when it shows up in readings - it lifts my heart. I am also inclined to say that this could also indicate long-haul trip, a journey perhaps?

I like the world card too.  I find she gives me hope and comfort and knowledge that a particular cycle is coming to an end and something fabulous is on the horizon.

Must be the eternal optimist in me....