It’s Not Over, Yet! (+ the things I’ve learned… for C.H.)
Today is my last day in South America. Today I hop a plane across an ocean to touch down in Barcelona. Then I’ll get in a car and drive into France. The idea of being in France by tomorrow, and the fact that I’ll only be there for a few days, doesn’t really register in my head. I feel like some kind of jet-set woman… yes, just going to France again. (This will be the 6th time in France and the 11th time I traverse the Atlantic!) While I’m there I plan to eat a very juicy steak and maybe a tarte aux fraises or some mousse au chocolat. Or both.
Then, back to Barcelona and from there to Thailand, where I’ll try to put to use some of the things I’ve learned here in South America…
1. If the guy in the market tells you 10, you can probably get it for 6.
2. Put your bag on your knees in the bus and hold on to it.
3. Watch how much the locals pay when the money guy comes around.
4. Sickness is but a part of the trip.
6. Always carry toilet paper.
7. Always carry small change.
8. Watch out for the local girl who smiles sweetly at you while eyeing your bags.
9. Hostels often aren’t the cheapest or most ineresting way to go.
10. Try not to expect anything. Just go with it and appreciate the experience.
11. Don’t plan everything. Hazard can be your friend.
12. Rainpants.
13. Be alert but not afraid.
14. That crazy activity? Do it. Who knows when you’ll have the chance again?
Anyone have one to add?
Tags: advice, South America, Thailand, transition, Travel
bonniecaton
May 10th, 2007 at 2:53 pm
To add? Yes. I would say, HAT. Maybe it can keep those rainpants company. And, a hat might be very welcome in Thailand. The sun is so intense there! The Thais say they have three seasons: hot, hot and wet, and hotter.
Do you have anything to tell us about bugs? One hears so much about jungle and bugs, or So. American beaches and bugs, or hostels and bugs. What did you learn about bugs?
Otherwise, I think you already have the best mix for successful travel. You go with the flow Bonnie…it’s the trip and not the destination. I think you have reminded us of that rubric so many times in so many ways in your journal/blog.
Onward. Keep writing. I miss you.
-momma
May 14th, 2007 at 8:32 pm
Umm, I’m sure there’s something to add, but really you hit just about all the stuff I’ve come across too.
Ah I got one, be aware of slik, attractive, young, charming western men. They’re evil, evil I tell you! Ah, who am I kidding, they’re great!
May 16th, 2007 at 8:14 am
Forgot bug spray.