Resources

My Top 3 Solo Travel Tips

March 12, 2018 by Asia

Are you curious about solo travel but haven’t taken the plunge yet? Maybe you’re about to embark on your first trip and are looking for a bit of reassurance. I feel you! I was soooo nervous before my first trip. No matter your travel experience or destination, my top 3 tips for an enjoyable solo travel experience are here to help you feel safe and social.

Don’t let fear hold you back from traveling on your own. Solo travel is my favorite way to explore AND meet people!

1. Get connected before you even set foot on the plane

Unless you’re looking to be 100% alone for 100% of the time (no judgment), I highly recommend making a couple of connections before you even arrive at your destination. My favorite way to do that is using WorkAway. You can find volunteer programs (some even offer free food and lodging) or meet up with other travelers in your area. I had a girl contact me in San Diego before I even left for my Latin America trip, and we met up for coffee to discuss our plans. A couple of months later, we met up for a trek in Ecuador because we knew our paths would cross there. How cool is that!? I also started my solo travels by volunteering for 3 weeks at a kid’s camp in Quito. An organization found my profile on WorkAway and reached out to me. I made a few lifelong friends there, and got some travel buddies who explored Ecuador with me for several weeks.

2. Stay in hostels…or at least hang out at them

I know some of you may be thinking “I’m too old for this” but hear me out. You don’t have to stay in a dorm. (I always do! #notashamed) You can book a private room with a private bathroom if you want. Not only is this generally a cheaper option, but you can connect with other travelers so much easier than you would if you were staying in a hotel chain. If you absolutely will not stay in a hostel, at least consider finding the most popular one at your destination, and going to one of their events. Some of them open up parties, concerts, tours, and even game nights to the public. Others are a bit more strict on their “guests only” policy. Do your research. Ps. Some hostels are quite fancy! You might enjoy the experience. Keep an open mind. ; )

3. Let someone know how to reach you

I love going off grid, but it’s nice to know that someone always knows how to find me…just in case. I tell my parents when I am going somewhere remote, like the jungle, or on a multiple day trek. One time I ended up somewhere that didn’t have wifi, and I wasn’t using cell service at the time. My parents were trying to get in touch with me with a family announcement, and since I’m normally very connected on WhatsApp, they freaked out when I didn’t respond…They ended up calling the US Embassy to come find me in Guatemala! Since then, I always send my family my current location. : ) Some may call this overkill; I call it being responsible. I also recommend registering in the US STEP Program (if you’re a US citizen) or whatever program your country offers. You simply put in your travel dates and where you’re staying. The US will email you travel alerts, like if a protest is going on in your area, and know how to reach you in case of emergency.

Solo travel is my favorite pastime. It doesn’t have to be scary. It doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be lonely. Just be smart about how you approach it and enjoy the ride!

If you’re interested in learning more about how to travel solo, check out my new digital course where I will be there to support you every step of the way! asiadawn.co/travelsolo

What are your favorite solo travel tips?

An Ode To Female Solo Travel

March 8, 2018 by Asia

The start to my solo travels was a bit unexpected. Cliche, perhaps, but definitely unplanned.

Travel was always a passion of mine, but it never occurred to me to do it on my own. Until one day it did.

When my husband of less than 3 months told me we had made a “mistake” to get married, my entire world was turned upside down. I didn’t know what to do or where to go next. I also didn’t realize how much of myself I had put into that 9 year relationship…until it was over. Who was I without my other half?

And so began my journey of self-discovery all over again at the age of 31.

I went from a blushing bride, to a newly single woman, living at home with my parents, and questioning everything. That’s when I decided to do something completely controversial: I said adios to my old life and booked a one-way ticket to South America.

Solo travel literally changed my life.

My “former life” was MBA corporate marketing girl, playing by all the “rules” and planning everything to a T. My “new life” encompassed feelings of freedom and adventure…nothing and everything was part of the plan. I backpacked solo (and jobless) for one year. It gave me the courage to live life on my own terms. Now I’m living in Mexico City, running my own coaching business, and getting paid to travel and write! I had no idea I would end up here. But I am so grateful that I did. And I have solo travel to thank for it.

Everyone should have the opportunity to travel solo.

I didn’t just wake up after my divorce one day and decide to do it. It was a bit more subtle than that, and honestly, I was just taking life one day at a time. Going through a divorce isn’t easy. Some of you may know already know that.

Part of my healing process was getting in touch with my spiritual side. I went deeper into my yoga practice and started meditating. I found a holistic therapist. I also made sure to travel. I took a girls’ trip to Nicaragua and had weekend getaways. Like everyone said, things actually started to get easier over time…but it still felt like something was missing.

Solo travel can help you find whatever it is you are looking for.

I started to get curious about what truly made me happy. (You know, the deep work.) So often we find ourselves going through the motions in life without ever stopping to think about what it is we’re doing or why. Are we waking up and going to a 9-5 job because someone told us we’re supposed to, or are we doing work that not only pays the bills, but also fulfills us? Are we getting married because everyone else is doing it, or because that’s the kind of partnership we truly desire? I began to question #allthethings.

Sometimes it takes a jarring moment to wake us up and realize we had been living someone else’s dream. Now that I had gotten the hard part out of the way, I was ready to live MINE.

My corporate job wasn’t making me happy any longer, and in my heart, I knew I had to leave. I was ready to leave both the corporate world and the country. I had always wanted to live abroad, but never did it because I didn’t want to leave my partner, and honestly, because it sounded scary.

It was finally time to go out and explore who I was as a woman on my own. And with that, I embarked on my first solo travel experience ever and took a flight to Quito.

Solo travel is a thrill.

I spent nearly one year backpacking from Ecuador to Mexico, and WOW! What an adventure! I survived my bus getting robbed at gunpoint in Colombia (yes, guns were actually shot on my bus!). I volunteered with children. I built houses. I climbed volcanoes. I spent days on remote beaches. I slept on a cargo ship. I learned how to salsa. I collected some of the most memorable experiences of my life (so far). But most importantly, I lived outside of my comfort zone and started to find myself as Asia Dawn, an empowered single woman who could do it all on her own.

Solo travel gave me confidence and clarity.

A very special moment for me was waking up in a tent, on the beach somewhere in the Choco jungle of Colombia, on what would have been my two year wedding anniversary. I could hear the ocean. I could smell the sea. I could feel the sweat beading on my skin as I shed a few tears. Tears for my past life, and tears for my new life on the road as a single woman. I was really f’ing proud of myself. My heart hurt much less than it did one year ago, and I felt freer than ever before. I was finally starting to feel grateful for everything I had been through.

Solo travel healed me.

Travel has been the one constant throughout my life that makes me feel unlike anything else. It makes me feel free, empowered, and excited about life. I get into a curious mindset as I meet new people and immerse myself in different cultures. I get pushed outside of my comfort zone just enough to keep things exciting and keep me growing. As far as I’m concerned, each day has the potential to be life-changing, as long as we are open to it.

Solo travel opened me up in ways that nothing else ever has.

As a solo female traveler, I live in the moment and open myself up to new experiences along the way. I may be “alone”, but I never feel alone. If I choose to settle down somewhere (or with someone) one day, I will still continue to have my solo travel time. It’s so important to me, and we must continue to do the things in life that make us feel alive. If not, what is life for?

Solo travel is F*CKING AMAZING. And it’s totally attainable.

If you are curious about solo travel, I am here to tell you to stop wondering and start doing! You won’t regret it! You will grow in ways that may surprise you. You will learn so much about yourself. You will laugh. You will probably cry. You will undoubtedly have whatever experiences it is that your soul is calling for.

Solo travel doesn’t have to be scary.

If you’re thinking about doing the solo travel thing, I hope I can serve as an example for you. I hope you are starting to see that it IS possible. That you don’t need tens of thousands of dollars to do it. (I lived on under $30/day.) That you don’t have to have it all figured out. (I went from a type A over planner to someone who adopted the go with the flow mentality.) That it’s perfectly acceptable to do what YOU want. Be a badass solo female traveler if that is what calls to you. I know that’s what calls to me.

Solo travel will empower you.

It’s my message and my passion on International Women’s Day to empower other women to experience what has already given me so much. If you’d like some guidance as you prepare for your travels, I am here for you.

Don’t let fear hold you back any longer.

Ladies, you deserve to live a life on your own terms, just as I am doing today in Mexico City. It may have taken me a divorce and heartbreak to figure it out (insert cliche and Eat, Pray, Love moment), but I am so grateful for all of it. Knowing what I know now, my former life wasn’t mine to live any longer. I was destined for so much more.

View of San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador

Solo travel allowed me to discover who I truly am.

If you want some more tips on solo travel, check out my online course here! {www.asiadawn.co/travelsolo}

With love and besos from Mexico City,

Asia Dawn

That time I was (almost) robbed at gunpoint

August 26, 2017 by Asia

Note: I originally wrote this post in October 2016 right after “the incident” while the details were fresh. Now I’m prepared to share my story.
——
When I was backpacking across Latin America, I took the bus everywhere. Not only is it the cheapest option, I also think it’s the best way to really get to know a country. In order to meet the locals, you need to BE with the locals!

99% of my bus rides went just fine. There was just this onnnnnne incident that will stick with me forever. While I completely encourage taking the public bus on your travels, please make sure to put your safety first! I learned this firsthand when I accidentally took a dangerous road in Colombia at night. (Btw, this is a long post, so if you want to skip ahead to my bus safety tips, scroll to the bottom.)

My scary story took place on a “night bus” in southern Colombia on October 3, 2016, two months into my first solo backpacking trip. I kept it private so my parents wouldn’t freak out while I was gone for another 9 months. Now that I’m home safe, here it goes!

My overnight bus in Colombia was stopped abruptly at 4am, and men in black masks came on board shooting guns.

Yes. Two men dressed in all black with black masks came on MY BUS shooting handguns. At the roof. At the windows. It was scary as hell! I wish I could insert a photo of the moment the first man stepped on the bus because it will be ingrained in my brain forever. But of course, I didn’t have my iPhone out for a “Hey look! A local holdup!” experience.

Before I go any further, let’s back it up a bit…

My friend Hannah and I had already been traveling by bus for over 30 hours. We started deep in southern Ecuador and were trying to San Agustín, a town in the Andes Mountains of western Colombia, all in one shot. It was going to take us nearly two full days of travel, but we were up for the challenge (and Hannah’s Ecuador visa had run out)! After a series of missed buses, delays, and bus terminal woes, we boarded our fifth bus on our second day of travel. It was an overnight bus leaving the Colombian border town of Ipiales at 10pm and headed for Cali via the Pan American Highway. I did not know that this was considered a dangerous route to take at night and neither did Hannah. It was all routine backpacker travel.

We purchased the two last tickets going out on the very last bus for the day. We thought we were super lucky we didn’t have to stay in a questionable border town. As we boarded and started walking towards our seats in the back row, I noticed we were the only tourists/gringas on board. The bus made a brief stop, and a police officer came on to get copies of everyone’s identification. Routine check, I guess. When I told him I was from the United States and flashed him my passport, he gave me an odd smile and said “wowwwww.” What was he thinking in that moment?

For the next several hours, I was in and out of sleep and never comfortable because: A) I couldn’t stay in my seat. I kept sliding off due to our bus driver taking corners at incredibly fast speeds on ridiculously windy roads! And B) There was a man sitting near me that reeked of booze and kept trying to strike up a conversation. (This was when I learned that “mami” was going to be a new nickname for me in Colombia.) I wasn’t sure what his intentions were, so I clutched my belongings and tried to stay awake. Minor bus robberies are not uncommon among tourists, unfortunately, so I was a wee bit paranoid. I was not prepared for what happened next, however.

The Incident

I remember looking at my phone at 3:42am, feeling queasy and way too tired. I was bouncing out of my chair, holding on for dear life, when moments later the driver SLAMMED on the brakes. I’m talking super abrupt. I thought we had hit someone. Everyone woke up, and all the lights turned on. Hannah groggily said “I hate it when they do this,” thinking someone was going to get on selling food. I heard yelling outside. Then, a man dressed in all black with a black ski mask boarded the bus. I don’t remember saying this, but apparently I took a breath and said “He has a mask,” stating the obvious.

The series of events that happened next could have taken place over 5 minutes or less. Time seemed to have stopped. The man in the mask pulled out a gun and fired a shot at the roof. I don’t even remember seeing the gun. I just remember hearing the shot. Instinctively, Hannah and I dove underneath our seats and tried to make ourselves into tiny balls. There was yelling in Spanish while more shots were fired. My first thoughts were, I’m going to die. They’re going to kill everyone on this bus. What everyone said was right. Colombia IS dangerous. Mom and dad are going to be so sad. More yelling. Hannah and I attempted to crawl even further underneath our seats to protect our heads. Hannah held my hand. She also covered my head trying to protect me since I was in the aisle and exposed. Neither one of us screamed or cried. It was total chaos and I was frozen. My Spanish brain wasn’t working so I couldn’t understand what was being said. Then, I felt the man beside me. Mr. Black Mask said “Plata, plata” which means “money.” It all started to make sense. They were here to rob us. (Sigh of relief.)

“Hannah, we need to give them money. Get out your money.” Hannah was trying to unlock her backpack while I was reaching into my money belt, trying to determine how much to give them. “How much should we give them? How much are you giving them?” I asked Hannah. This conversation might sound silly to you. Just give them everything, right? Maybe not. I thought back to all the horror stories I’d ever heard, including kidnappings for ransom. Plus, I could only find American dollars, not pesos. They would think I’m a rich gringa for sure! If I gave them too much, would they kidnap me? If I didn’t give them everything, would they be mad and shoot me? I held around $60 in my hand, prepared to give it to the man the next time he came to my row…But luckily he never came back. I didn’t have to hand over anything. The men in black masks were gone.

It was incredibly silent and smelled like gun powder. Slowly, Hannah and I peeked our heads up. The man who was striking up a conversation with me only moments early confirmed that yes, there were gone, and it was OK to get up now.

Maybe it was the fact that we were in the last row. Maybe it was enough for them that Hannah’s Kindle was left on the seat, and they took that, thinking it was an iPad or something far more valuable. Maybe it was the fact that we were hiding underneath our seats, not listening to a word they said, and we were too much trouble for them. It turns out that the rest of the bus passengers were obediently sitting in their seats with their hands behind their heads as they were being robbed row by row. That is what the men were yelling. “Sit with your hands behind your head!!”

Did I realize that at the time? No. If I had understood, would I have listened? I’m not sure. When someone comes into your personal space and starts shooting, wouldn’t you instinctively run for cover? All I could think of at the time was the shootings that had happened over the years at home (school shootings, movie shootings, nightclub shootings, police shootings, you get the picture.) I had luckily never been in a shooting before, but all the stories I had heard of survival were either that they were randomly shooting people, and they got lucky…or they were hidden, playing dead, underneath dead bodies, etc. I remember thinking “play dead, play dead” which also didn’t make sense at the time because they weren’t shooting to kill. It turns out there was one shot fired very close to me, just two rows ahead, through the window. That might have been the shot I heard after one of the robbers yelled “quiete!” (shut up!”) to one of the passengers. I remember it was SO LOUD.

The Aftermath

Slowly, Hannah and I returned to our seats. I looked at her, she looked at me, we breathed a deep sigh of relief…and then we started laughing uncontrollably. Like crazy, hysterical laughter. I was also burping nonstop, hoping I wouldn’t vomit. We laughed some more. I had a solo tear streaming down my cheek while I was laughing and burping uncontrollably. Hannah asked me if I was OK. “No!” I said, in between laughter and burps. But I was OK. We were OK. Everyone was OK. A woman in the front proclaimed “Nos vivimos!” (“We’re alive!”) and excited, nervous chatter ensued. The woman in front of me kept asking me if I was scared. WASN’T I SCARED? She was probably confused as to why we were laughing so hard. It was the shock and nerves. “Of course I was scared!” I said. “I was hiding underneath my seat the entire time! I didn’t know what was going on, so I did nothing!” I exclaimed. That’s when I learned what the rest of the bus was doing in the meantime. Even knowing what I know now, I don’t think I would have changed a thing. Hannah and I reacted instinctively, and we got out of it OK. Thank God.

The bus driver’s assistant assessed the damage and taped up the two windows that had bullet holes through them. (Safety glass, check!) We slowly pulled away and were on the road again. When we passed a police checkpoint, the bus driver started to slow down. Everyone started shouting nervously to keep going and continue onward to the next police checkpoint. It was the weirdest coffee break of my life. (There was an open cafe where we stopped!) I think they were afraid because we were still very close to where the incident took place. We drove on for another 5 minutes until we hit the next group of police vehicles. (Clearly this road is patrolled a lot at night.) We pulled over and everyone got off the bus. We spent the next hour or so hanging out, swapping stories, and talking to the police. A military vehicle pulled up, and the cops went back to the scene of the crime to see what they could find. Much to my surprise, they came back with a ton of people’s stuff! Backpacks and wallets filled with IDs, but light on cash and credit cards. The robbers took what they wanted and nothing else.

Once dawn hit, we boarded the slightly broken bus, and were on our way again. Needless to say I was wide away for the rest of the trip. Hannah had to keep assuring me that it wasn’t going to happen again.

So…what did I learn from this experience? Life is precious and sometimes short. Something unexpected can happen at any moment, so never miss any opportunity to tell your family you love them. Also, do what you love! You know, all that deep stuff. : ) It’s all so very true.

And then from a practical, this is how you travel on a bus in South America standpoint…

Travel in daylight whenever possible. Truth be told, I begrudgingly took two more night buses after that experience (one in northern Colombia and one in Mexico), but I also took hundreds of buses during the day. It’s just safer to travel during daylight than at night. End of story.
Research bus routes in advance. Will you be on a dangerous road that should be avoided at night at all costs? (That was our road. I did not know that.) It turns out that Lonely Planet even recommends taking a police escort if you have to travel that road at night. I met a guy who told me that his night bus had military and police escorts when he took that road back in 2014. Why wasn’t my bus blessed with such a thing?
Sit near the back of the bus. I think that is partially why we were left alone. They robbed the front of the bus first and were in a time crunch. Sometimes a lot of people get on and off the bus mid-trip, so it’s just nicer to stay out of the way too.
Practice the buddy system. As a solo traveler, I definitely had my share of solo bus journeys, and they were all completely fine. I just always felt a little bit more comforted when I had another backpacker next to me. This is particularly useful if one of you needs to use the toilet and you don’t want to leave your belongings unattended. (I always take mine with me! A girl got her passport stolen at a rest stop in Costa Rica. Even the “safest countries” have their crime.)
Disperse your valuables, and don’t leave your belongings unattended. At the time of the robbery, I wished I had put some cash and credit cards in my backpack that was locked up underneath the bus. It’s good to diversify, just in case! This also means, don’t put things on the rack above your seat. Keep your most precious belongings on you, and even be careful placing your backpack on the floor without having it secured around your leg and with a lock. I met several people who left a bus with a much lighter backpack, or to have it completely gone when they left it overhead.

Hannah, my travel partner in crime

Welcome to Colombia, my friends! In all seriousness, Colombia was one of my FAVORITE countries the entire trip, so please don’t let my story keep you from visiting this beautiful place. I was there for over two months and found the people to be so warm, outgoing, and helpful (robbers aside). While this was a completely crazy experience, I took it all in stride and continued traveling and taking buses for 9 months afterwards. It didn’t deter me or make me want to head home. It just made me all the more cautious and potentially prevented even scarier things from happening down the road. It was all part of my journey.

Have you ever taken an overnight bus?
What other safety tips do you have for international travel?

My Favorite Spots In Latin America

July 6, 2017 by Asia

I spent nearly 1 year backpacking through 10 insanely beautiful countries: Ecuador, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, Belize, and Mexico. Phew! In all honesty, I feel like I could still be living that simple, adventurous life…taking long bus rides, eating street food, sleeping in bunk beds, and meeting crazy interesting people from all over the globe…but it has run its course (for now).

From the beaches in Colombia to the volcanoes in Guatemala, here are some of my favorite spots in Latin America. Let me know if you agree or disagree, and enjoy!

Best beach: Cabo San Juan (Tayrona Park), Colombia // Runner up: Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
I visited countless beaches, so it’s hard to pick just one. The most memorable was inside of Tayrona Park, Colombia. You can only enter and exit this beach on foot (or by horse), and camping is encouraged. It’s small, serene, and surrounded by coconut-bearing palm trees. Local vendors hike in to sell empanadas and helados (ice cream) each day, and there’s a restaurant nearby if you want prepared food or cerveza. Bonus: you’ll experience the most amazing sunrise ever. Waking up before dawn just feels natural here.

The 10k stretch of jungle beaches in Puerto Viejo is perfection. There are hikes to viewpoints, expats meeting up for volleyball matches, surf lessons, yoga sessions, and fresh coconuts. If you’re lucky, you might catch a sloth sighting or two. It’s less touristy on this side of Costa Rica (the Caribbean), so as an added bonus, you won’t see any high rises. A “nice” Airbnb might even feel a bit rural, depending on what sort of accommodations you’re accustomed to.

Best water: Isla Holbox, Mexico
The ocean is incredibly calm for wading and swimming (but terrible for surfing), and there is a sandbank you can walk on for miles. The water never seems to get too deep, and the temperature is perrrrfect. What else can I say? I’ll let this photograph speak for itself. (Ps. There are pink flamingos here too!)

Best value: Nicaragua
This country will always hold a special place in my heart. It was my second visit, and this time I got to know it on a budget. I swam in crater lakes, hiked volcanoes, and visited the stunning cathedral posted below, all for a fraction of what I’d pay in Panama or Costa Rica. It you’re up for a lot of beans, rice, and plantains, you can easily live on $15/day. Plus, the “chicken buses” (local transport) are super fun to get around in. I like to see how each bus driver decks out the interior. (Read my full post on Nicaragua here!)

Most exotic: Punta Gallinas, Colombia
Rolling sand dunes meet the Caribbean Sea in this remote, windy location. The northernmost point of South America and very close to Venezuela, Punta Gallinas embodies peace and beauty. It’s only accessible by lancha (speed boat), and that is after driving for hours through a very large dessert. With all the effort required to get here, you’ll have Mother Nature all to yourself, except for the indigenous Wayuu who inhabit the space.

Fun in the sand dunes!

Most off the grid: Bahía Solano, Colombia
Not family vacation friendly, but definitely for the adventurous traveler, Bahía Solano can only be accessed by boat or tiny plane. (Are you sensing a theme here?) I arrived via a 21 hour cargo ship. Yes, a cargo ship. There were insane thunderstorms. The entire town flooded. The bridge connecting us to the airport and port collapsed, and no one got in or out for an entire day. BUT, it was magical. I’ve never been anywhere like it…and there were hardly any tourists there, just how I like it.

I feel a storm a comin’

Most postcard moments: San Blas Islands, Panama
Every day I felt like I was living in a real life screensaver. I have never seen islands so pure, so tiny, so perfect. Most of the 300+ islands are uninhabited, but the “larger ones” are populated by the Kunas. I paid for a tour with San Blas Adventures to see as many spots as possible, sleep on the islands, and meet the locals. You can also sail from Colombia to Panama if that is more your style. Either way, expect fresh seafood and dazzling sunsets on the daily.

We actually went to this teeny, tiny island!

Best food: Mexico
Specifically, Mexico City. From street cart tacos to white tablecloth lunches, there is something for every taste and budget. I am personally still drooling over the seafood tacos at Contramar. For a scene, check out Mercado Roma for a variety of eats and drinks. (Do you recognize this spot from The Bachelor with Ben Higgens?)

Mercado Roma

Tastiest beer: D&D Brewery, Honduras
Honduras is a country that I was afraid to visit. The media really got in my head, and a lot of backpackers were skipping it. I, on the other hand, did not want to skip any country on my route, so I decided to give it a try. After visiting the Copan Ruins, I went inland to Lake Yojoa and stayed at the D&D Brewery. Oh. My. Gosh. It was the first time I had real beer off the tap in months! I had pints. I had flights. I enjoyed the beer while still experiencing the sights. The brewery is run by someone originally from the states, and all the employees were Honduran.

Best dancing: Cali, Colombia
I have never seen better salsa dancers in my life! Everyone is jaw-dropping good. The speed. The passion. Ahhh. I took private lessons at a salsa school, went to small clubs, and even saw the spectacular Delirio show that is put on once a month. If you have a passion for dance, shake your hips over to Cali ASAP, and grab tickets to this show while you’re at it!

Best party: Sunday Funday, San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua
This pool crawl lasts all day and all night. I almost didn’t go because I’m 33, and it sounded like something I would have enjoyed at 23 (maximum). I decided to bite the bullet, and you know what? It was pretty fun! Disfruta and ready more about Sunday Funday here.

Best snorkeling: Belize
While this country wasn’t my favorite (it’s super touristy), I got to swim in caves and experience some of the best snorkeling of my life! The Great Mayan Reef extends from the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico down to Honduras and is home to all sorts of wildlife. I saw reef sharks, manatees/sea cows, sting rays, eels, sea turtles, and all sorts of fishies! Next time I want to swim with the whale sharks.

Best trek: Quilatoa Loop, Ecuador
The Quilotoa Loop is a trail that weaves through remote Andean villages and finishes with a breathtaking view of the Quilotoa crater lake. Go with a group so you don’t get lost! The trek can be done in 3-5 days, all of it between 9,000 and 13,000 feet, and you won’t run into many people along the way. Bliss.

Best hike (overnight or day trip): Acatengango Volcano, Guatemala
It’s steep. It’s hot. It’s also freeeezing cold (literally) when you camp near the summit. But it’s all worth it to see the neighboring Fuego volcano erupting right in front of you! Have you ever seen lava shoot out of a volcano? EPIC.

Biggest surprise: El Salvador
San Salvador was once considered the most dangerous city in the world, so I was skeptical (ah hem terrified) to visit the capital, let alone the entire country. It turns out that my fear was wayyyy off base. I met the friendliest people and had a great experience all around! I sort of hitchhiked from the border of Honduras to get to the capital, and I ended up becoming good friends with the driver and his wife. They ended up showing me all around their beautiful country for an entire week! Meeting the locals is the best way to get to know a spot (but you don’t have to hitchhike to do it. That was totally unintentional, and I was with 2 strong men.)

Best anthem: “Duele El Corazon” by Enrique Iglesias // Runner up: “Shaky Shaky” by Daddy Yankee
Yes, it’s terrible, but I love love love reggaeton. (Btw, if you love the Justin Beiber remix of “Despacito” then you do too!) I taught myself all the words to Enrique’s hit on a long bus ride in Ecuador, and it has been stuck in my head ever since.

Si te vas, yo tambien me voyyyyyy

Well, there you have it! A roundup of some of my favorite spaces and places from my #wanderingdawn adventures!

What are your favorite spots in Latin America, or elsewhere?

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Things I’ve Learned While Traveling (the deep stuff)

May 28, 2017 by Asia

Hello again! I’m back from my unintentional period of silence. My travel pace quickened, and I enjoyed every moment, in the moment. I didn’t even think to press pause and sit down to write, but now that I’m in Mexico City for 2 weeks (que lindo!!), I have more time to reflect and do just that. My trip is also coming to an end next month, and there is so much I want to say and share about my journey!

I recently hit 10 months of solo travel. 10 months! That is a long time, right?! When I set out on my trip, I didn’t have a return date, but I kind of assumed it would be around 6 months based on budget. I picked up some good habits early on (thanks, Hannah!) so I lived well under $30/day all in. Ultimately, I decided to go home in June for a variety of reasons, but I really don’t see my life abroad ending any time soon. I actually want to move to Mexico later this year…More on that as it unfolds. ; )

As I sit and reflect on my time from Ecuador to Mexico, I realize how much I’ve learned, and I want to share these tidbits. Maybe some of them will resonate with you. If not, that’s ok too. : )

1. Money isn’t everything

I’m pretty sure I’ve heard this my entire life, but in the United States, we are given mixed messages. Money = life. Money = success. Money = happiness. That the people who say that money isn’t everything only say it because they don’t have money. But I do and I will, so it IS everything. But really? Once we’ve surpassed the basic levels of necessity and comfort, how much more do we really need to make us happy? I think we easily get caught up in what everyone else in our bubble is doing. It can feel difficult not to compete, especially once we’ve had a taste of it. Don’t get me wrong. I still love a fancy dinner, new shoes, and a glass of good wine every now and then, but that isn’t everything nor is it necessary every single day. I am still so very happy when I’m taking public transportation, chatting with the locals in foreign countries, and trying street food. I’m happy when I’m making new friends, journaling, or listening to a podcast. I am still happy when I’m not shopping at Nordstroms (my fave department store! #respect) or paying $50 for a sit-down dinner. As long as I am safe, comfortable with myself, and in good company, my heart is full. Now, I’m not saying the finer things in life aren’t worth enjoying. I’ve just realized that the more I used to fight for salary and status, the less directly it correlated to my happiness. I was very happy living a simple, bohemian lifestyle this past year. Let’s call it a shift in perspective.

2. Worrying about the future is pointless

I have a bit more anxiety than the average person, or at least before this trip I would say I did. Sometimes traveling alone can be scary. It’s definitely a little stressful figuring out logistics from place to place in a foreign country, and sometimes I would work myself up so much over something that hadn’t even happened yet. What was I worrying for? It’s so much nicer to do a little upfront planning, live in the moment, and then trust that everything will work out. I also stopped stressing over what seemed to be everyone else’s question…”What do I want to do next? What do I want to do with my life??” How about this. I want to do whatever will make me happy right now. I don’t know what that will be 1, 3, or 5 years from now, and I am OK with that. There is no need to worry. In a more practical sense, if you have a job and a family to support, of course you need to think about the future. I’m just saying, don’t kill yourself worrying about tomorrow. Do your part to plan and then trust in the process. As Gabby Bernstein would say, the Universe has your back. (Definitely read her book if you haven’t already!)

3. I can be happier with less

This kind of goes with the money isn’t everything point. I’ve been living out of a backpack, wearing the same clothing, rarely applying makeup, and hardly making a purchase outside of food, lodging, and transport. Am I sad that I missed the latest movie in theatres or didn’t buy those adorable flats? Nope. In fact, I’m hardly even thinking about those things because I am spending my time and money on things that matter to me even more right now…travel and experiences. I know that travel and cultural immersion fulfill me, so I am going to embrace this realization. The experiences and memories I’ve made will certainly last longer than a pair of new jeans. (I actually do need a new pair of jeans, though, so perhaps that was a bad example!) Also, think about the saying “less is more.” I’ve really found that to be true on my travels, and I’m not just talking about materialistic things. The less complication there is in life, the better. Keep friendships that matter, but don’t worry about overexerting yourself to please everyone. Slow down, and enjoy the simple things in life. A kiss from your lover. A giggle from your child. Whatever that means to you. Less stress and less drama leave room for more of the good things to enter your life.

4. Speaking the truth is liberating

When I first set out on this trip, I was really worried that people would ask me why I started traveling. Luckily idgaf what people think much anymore (another thing I’ve learned on this trip!) but in the beginning, I was afraid of looking like an Eat Pray Love cliche. “Why did I decide to travel? Well it was a chain reaction really. It first started with my divorce…and then that lead me to realize that I wasn’t happy in my job…so I thought, why am I continuing to do something that doesn’t make me happy? I SHOULD BE HAPPY! We all should…And now here I am! Ta da!” It turns out that sharing my story in one form or another actually allowed me to heal. At first it was scary, but once I realized that people weren’t there to judge me, and I could stop placing judgement on myself, I let it flow more freely. And it felt good.

5. I am not defined by my past

I spent a lot of time journaling and reflecting, and travel was like a form of therapy. Good news. I learned that the past does not define me. Nor does it define you. I think we can all learn from it, pick up the pieces, make a beautiful mosaic, and move on to make whatever we want out of this life. I am grateful that I had the time, resources, and opportunity to do this for myself because I really needed to get out of my head.

6. I need to live an unconventional life

I have met so many amazing people from around the world, and I find it fascinating to hear about their lives. No one lives the same life nor has the same dream. If you told me that I was going to fly home to San Diego in two weeks, move downtown, and work in a corporate 9-5 job, I wouldn’t get on the plane. That is not going to work for me right now, and I know it deep down in my soul. It took me a while to get to this realization since I’ve been programmed to think I need to behave and live in a certain way, but I’ve come to terms with what I want to do next, and it doesn’t involve a house, husband, kids, or heels. (Ok, maybe heels sometimes!) I don’t have the full picture of what it entails yet, but I prefer it that way. “The old Asia” would have had an issue with not being able to see a particular linear path in life. “The new Asia” (as my grad school friends have recently called me) is less uptight and way more fun! In short, I have learned to go with the flow. Now who has got tickets to Burning Man?

7. My intuition knows what’s up

This is a big one. Historically, I have had a hard time trusting my intuition. I would drown it out with rationalization and a busy schedule. But you know that feeling you get sometimes deep down inside, maybe in the pit of your stomach or in the tightness of your chest? The one that is screaming at you to do something different, but you just don’t want to hear it because change would be too hard? That, my dear friends, is your intuition waiting to be heard. I meditate now and I’m still learning how to respond to it, but I am on the right path towards making the right decisions for me now…not based on what I think I should be doing because other people are already doing it. I think this is also called becoming a grownup.

8. I can do it all by myself!

Yes I can! Sí, yo puedo! After spending nearly a decade in a relationship, I wasn’t exactly sure what it would be like or feel like to live a solo life. Guess what? It is liberating! I’ve learned that I can travel the world on my own and find happiness in myself and in my ever-changing surroundings. I can explore new places, make new friends, take a dance class, sing Reggaeton, swim in the ocean, survive crazy bus rides, you name it. I can make my own decisions and I am free to do whatever I want. Basically, I can run this town! (Cue music. I still heart Jay-Z. That much hasn’t changed.)

I’m sure I have learned so much more that I haven’t been able to articulate yet, but I think this is a great start, and I will be sure to share more insights as they come to me. (That list will also include practical things, like how to travel without a phone plan and what to do with the toilet paper in Latin America!)

Have you ever had a life-changing experience that caused you to think about life differently?

5 Easy Vacation Workouts

March 4, 2017 by Asia

Working out on vacation can feel like a chore. When I’m at home and in my routine, I find it sooo much easier to exercise. When I’m on vacation, however, I often find myself wishing I was doing more to stay active. I always feel better when I move my body! For that reason, this post is partially for you and partially for me to get my butt back in gear. ; ) Here are 5 easy vacation workouts that I hope will inspire movement!

1. Run, walk, or hike
Running is one of my primary sources of fitness (and sanity) at home, but I don’t feel comfortable doing it alone in foreign countries. It just isn’t as popular or common in some places. When I do find a running buddy, I pick a safe path and try to get in 5k or 30 minutes of cardio.

If you’re not a runner, why not go for a walk? There are free walking tours in nearly every big city which can be a great way to meet other travelers. I’ve often learned more about a place listening to a local during a walking tour than I have in a guide book. My guide in Medellin was around my age and lived there during the Pablo Escobar years. It was so sad yet informative to hear what had happened to a local family firsthand.

If you’re more of a nature lover or find yourself somewhere a bit more off the grid, find a local hike! It doesn’t have to be an all day endeavor up a volcano or mountain. Some of the best hikes I’ve done have been easy ones with friends.

2. Swim or Surf
If you’re near the beach, a lake, river, or pool (and know how to swim), hop in and go for a dip! I don’t travel with goggles so it’s hard to swim laps. Try these moves instead: run in and out of the ocean with high knees, tread water in a pool, try to swim upstream in the river (if it’s safe!)

Surfing is a really fun activity if you’re looking for a bit more adventure. I have to take lessons every time I go out because I am an extreme beginner, but it’s always worth it.

3. Yoga
One of my favorite workouts, I love how this one can go with you anywhere. Inquire about local classes in the city or see if they offer yoga at your hostel/hotel/resort/private island. If you can’t find a class, don’t fret! There are plenty of online courses on YouTube or check out Cody. They have an assortment of free classes for all levels from a variety of instructors.

4. Ride a bike
Renting a bicycle can be the perfect way to explore a new area and it might not even feel like a “workout” while you’re doing it…You’ll feel like a kid again! Grab a buddy and rent a bike from a local shop or hostel, or go solo like I did when I explored Ometepe Island, Nicaragua.

5. Bedroom circuit
If exercising outdoors isn’t an option, or if you just want to get it over with in the privacy of your own room, try a mini circuit that doesn’t take up any space! There are plenty of equipment free workouts available on Cody, YouTube and Pinterest. You can also come up with your own basic circuit and include moves like burpies, jumping jacks, squats, push-ups, and stretching. Check out this one Self Magazine that I’ve drawn inspiration from! It’s only 7 moves, and they can be done anywhere.

What do you think of these 5 easy vacation workouts? I know I always always always feel better after a good sweat.

What other ideas do you have for easy vacation workouts? Let me know!

Real Talk – Life Abroad, Part II

January 27, 2017 by Asia

Today is my 6 month travel anniversary (say what!?) and I’m ready to answer more of your questions! I honestly thought I’d be packing it up by now. I never wanted to give an official end date, but truth be told, I only purchased travel insurance to last me through February. Needless to say, that has been extended, and I’m staying in Central America a while longer. (Still no return flight home in case you’re wondering!)

What do I love the most about traveling? This is a hard one because I love so many things! After a lot of reflecting, I have to say I most love the new experiences that travel brings. I didn’t know much about Ecuador before I went, and while I was there, I got to experience an entirely new culture and start to embrace a new way of life. I took public transportation and tried to live more like the locals and less like the tourists. (Not always, but when I could!) I was fortunate to volunteer with children and rebuild homes. In Colombia, I traveled 21 hours in cargo ship to a remote community inaccessible by roads. I took salsa lessons. I took crazy buses. I went island hopping and saw how the Kuna people live in Panama. I hiked to picturesque waterfalls and had sloth sightings with new friends in Costa Rica. My travel experiences have shaped my heart in ways that I am only just beginning to understand. That’s why I can’t stop now.

What has surprised me the most? Taking a lighthearted approach on this one, I was surprised to learn that sleeping in a hammock is comfortable! It’s definitely more comfy than a mat inside a tent in my opinion. You just have to get the position just right. Why don’t we have more hammocks around in the states? I think I should open a bar on the beach with nothing but hammock seating. Yes. Someone needs to get on that.

What do I miss the least from home? The stress and the drama. (At work. In the media. You name it.) Down here I’ve been a bit more sheltered from all the chaos in the US. What I do see often makes me upset. I want to view more empowering posts (like those from the Women’s March!) and not all these hateful messages targeting one another. Also, I rarely think about Zika, but I’ve heard that just about everyone in the US is freaked out by it! (Please still come visit me! Ok if you’re pregnant, don’t. But if you’re not, don’t be scared!)

I am happy exploring foreign countries, practicing my Spanish, writing, and enjoying the simple things in life. A sunset. The sounds of a howler monkey. A fresh coconut. Don’t get me wrong. I’m not ignorant to what is going on right now, and my friends are keeping me informed. I’m just happy to march and observe it all from a distance…for now.

What do my fellow travelers think of the election? Oof. People are concerned with the uncertainty in the US, but at the end of the day, they usually tell me that the situation is still worse in their respective home countries. It’s all about perspective. (Unless you’re from New Zealand. I’m pretty sure that country is near perfect.)

What have I learned most about the world through my travels? That less is more. Plain and simple. I have seen happier people here living with far less than I ever had back home. Sure, it might be all they know, but there is some bliss in that.

Do I feel safe traveling alone as a female? Most of the time, yes. Many of my scary encounters would have been the same for a male or female traveler. It’s all about common sense. I never take more out with me than I need, and my bags are never abandoned. The exhausting part is that I am constantly “on guard.” I guess that’s something I miss from back home. Being able to walk around without worrying about getting robbed. I currently consider that a luxury. (Perspective!)

What else can I answer for you in my next post??

A Girl’s Guide to Packing Light

January 8, 2017 by Asia

Before I left for South America, I was majorly stressed about how to pack. It’s not often that you leave on a trip with no end date in sight! Would I bring one backpack? Two? What about all my shoes!? After scouring the Internet for advice, I finally found some sensible packing tips that fit my travel style from blogger Indie Traveller. After reading his ebook, I purchased a 46 Liter Osprey backpack that opens flat similar to a suitcase, as well as a small Osprey Daylite pack. These would be the two bags that would carry it all. Why? Because that is all that I wanted to carry!

“Light” is relative and different for everyone. Some may not mind hauling a full 70L bag around for months on end. I consider myself fit, but I’m also petite and want to be as comfortable as possible when traveling from place to place. The first step in packing light is choosing a small piece of luggage – that way, you cannot over pack!

Decisions, decisions

While many of the larger stereotypical backpackers’ backpacks have gone through several innovations, they still hold a lot of weight. For example, if you buy a 70L bag, you will find a way to fill the 70L bag before you go…even if you don’t need all that stuff! (Which you probably don’t.) I spoke to several avid travelers and employees at REI when I was weighing my options and learned that these larger bags were designed for backpackers who are trekking and camping for weeks on end. I’m a hostel gal myself so no tent or pots and pans necessary! I do enjoy sleeping in a hammock or tent on occasion to save money, and there are hostels that provide them for you.

Purchasing a smaller bag also meant I could keep it with me on the plane from LAX to Ecuador. Some backpacks meet the stricter international travel requirements, so be sure to check if this is important to you. After years of traveling, I try to carry on my luggage whenever possible. This is something that my dad and experience taught me. I know not everyone is on board with this approach yet, but consider this: When you carry on, you eliminate the risk of someone else losing your stuff, and it’s much quicker! It also keeps your luggage size and weight in check. For Copa Air, I had to keep mine under 10 kilos/22 pounds and within 46 linear inches (115 cm) length + width + height. I barely made the cut, but I’m glad I had some strict guidelines to help keep my luggage minimal. I’ve already met a handful of travelers whose checked luggage didn’t arrive the same day as they did. How stressful!

Day bags for hiking (13L purple and 24L black Osprey bags)

Now that I’ve been traveling for nearly 6 months, I can confidently say that I am happy with my decision. I even sent a few things home with my parents when they visited me over Christmas! When other travelers see my bag, they often comment on how small it is. Some even assume I’m a “short-term traveler.” Coming from a girlie girl, let me tell you that packing light CAN be done! I’m trying to start a movement here. You just need to focus, keep your eye on the prize (comfort), and go through at least 3 rounds of packing before you arrive at the perfect bag.

All that being said, here are some tips & tricks for keeping it comfy, practical, and minimal no matter the duration:

Start with a realistic sized piece of luggage, which is probably smaller than you think.
Have a second smaller bag and keep it stocked with the essentials: phone, noise canceling headphones, Kindle, medications, water, snacks. This bag will also come in handy for hiking and weekend trips.
Consider your climate. I have 1 all purpose jacket and even though it rains here, decided to forego a rain jacket to save space. You can purchase a disposable poncho if you get caught in a downpour, or just embrace Pachamama!
Stick to one color pallet so you can mix and match clothing more easily. Most of my pieces are earthy tones and blacks. (Don’t bother with white. While this is my favorite color for resort wear, it stains and turns yellow faster than you’d imagine!)
Roll your clothing; it takes up less space.
Take only 1 pair of all purpose tennis shoes for walking, hiking, and even running. (I recommend trail running shoes. Ditch the bulky hiking boots!)
Throw in a pair of Tieks or other versatile flats that can be folded and go from day to night. I use these anytime I’m in a big city like Quito, but they stay tucked away when I’m living the beach life. Bonus: flats take up way less space than a pair of Converse! (Everyone is wearing Converse down here, I swear.)
Get creative. Layer and wear your bulkiest items when moving from place to place. If it’s too hot, I tie my sneakers outside my backpack and stuff my jacket a linen bag to use as a pillow on long bus rides.

Rollin’, rollin’, rollin’

Buy a few reversible clothing items to get more looks out of the same piece (like a dress or swimsuit).
Don’t forget multi-purpose soap! I use this natural magic soap as my body wash and for hand-washing undergarments.
Buy a Hip Sister to keep cash & cards close and safe.
Remember that you can always buy things during your travels (toiletries, shoes, replacement items.) I purchased a warm hat and scarf on the street in Quito for $5 when I knew I’d be hiking at high elevation…subsequently, I ditched them in hot and humid Costa Rica.

Start with travel sized beauty products to comply with the TSA 3-1-1 rule, and refill as you go.
Try a life sans makeup or at least leave most of it at home! I wear mascara approx 1x/month at most, only for special occasions. Besides, I think I look younger this way?
Get solid shampoo and conditioner. It weights less than liquid and lasts so much longer! Also, forego the hair products and try going au natural. Coconut oil is the perfect substitute and also works as a sand fly repellent.

I cut my shampoo & conditioner down slightly so that they would fit together in 1 container to save space

Just remember. Start with a small bag and the rest will fall into place. If you’re interested, I can share my detailed packing list in a future post!

In my city gear here! Jeans, jacket, and flats.

In my cool weather city gear here! Jeans, jacket, and flats.

What have I missed? What tips do you have for minimizing your luggage?

Real Talk – Life Abroad

November 17, 2016 by Asia

Melissa and I met in San Diego through a volunteer/travel website before our solo travels, and then we met up for hiking in Ecuador!

Before I left San Diego, a friend suggested that I write a monthly “real talk” post about what life as a backpacker is really like. Is traveling the world really as glamorous as it appears on Instagram? How do I make it all work? What about the learning moments and the tough times? I could also discuss fun things like, how many times per week do I shower/shave/wash my hair/wear makeup? You know, the important things. ; )

Colombia is gorgeous!

I really liked the idea for that post, and now that I’ve been traveling for nearly 4 months (WOW) I think it’s time to start sharing! Read on, and please be sure to submit any questions you have for me so I can include them in a future post!

First of all, am I happy? Yes! I am living a much simpler, less materialistic life than I was back at home, and I feel happier overall. Certainly other factors come into play, like exploring new countries, learning a new language, and experiencing other cultures. I am also living in the moment instead of worrying about what I will do next week or next month, or fretting over the past. Living in the present was one of my intentions for this trip because I don’t think we do it enough.

Acting very serious on a free walking tour in Medellin, Colombia

What’s my daily budget, and how did I arrive at it? I did research before my trip and read that $30-35/day is feasible for budget backpacker travel in Latin America, so I decided I would take the higher end of $35/day and make it work for me. At home I love to spend, so I admit I was a bit worried about sticking to this seemingly low budget. It turns out I developed some great habits from other backpackers at the beginning of my trip, and so far I’ve traveled on an average of just $22/day! I was even told $35/day was HIGH, so I officially adjusted my budget to $30/day…which apparently is still high? Many people I’ve met spend just $15-25/day so I’ve learned a lot from them. At home I would often spend upwards of $20 on 1 meal or on a happy hour with my girlfriends. Now I’m making food, shelter, entertainment, and transportation all work for the same daily price as a salad and Kombucha from Whole Foods back at home. I plan to do a complete post on budgeting later because I’ve learned a lot and want to share!

I love it when I find vegetarian restaurants! Not pictured: juice, soup, and dessert! All for under $3.

Do I have to give anything up to stay on budget? It has been more of an overall lifestyle change. I no longer go shopping, do happy hours, or get my hair cut and colored. I try to think local in terms of food and transport. I get around by taking the cheapest option available which is typically a bus (and sometimes not even receiving a proper seat). I eat at local restaurants or markets which usually means a $2 set menu lunch. I drink local beer and buy local alcohol when it’s time to party. (Aguadiente is drink of choice in Colombia. I’ve even had rum. Who am I??) I book the cheapest room in a hostel (often a coed dorm with bunkbeds) and try to stay at places where breakfast is included. When I stay at a hostel with a kitchen, I cook many of my meals. I still drink coffee regularly since it costs only pennies. I’ve also incorporated several weeks of volunteering which includes free lodging and sometimes even free meals.

I’ve paid anywhere from $0.20 to $2.00 for a cup of jo in Ecuador & Colombia.

What do I miss the most from home? Aside from my friends and family (obviously!), I mostly miss my yoga studios, morning runs with Nicole, the Whole Foods salad bar, and leafy greens. The tropical fruit here is amazinggg (I dare you to find a sweeter pineapple), but leafy greens are not a typical part of the Latin culture. The other day I treated myself to a sit-down restaurant and found a KALE SALAD on the menu!! This was the first time I was able to find kale since the start of my travels, and I gobbled it up. (I will also miss Thanksgiving. Tear.) I’m getting yoga in occasionally when a hostel offers it or through an online studio, but I still miss the community and my teachers back home.

Aerial yoga in Ecuador!

Do I ever get lonely? I’m rarely alone during my travels, so I haven’t felt lonely per se. Occasionally I reminisce about life back home and experience a bit of FOMO. I’m still tied to social media so I get to see what my family and friends are up to. This makes me feel connected, but at times I feel left out or worried that I’m missing important milestones. I started WhatsApp groups with my family and friends, and we share photos and stores with each other. Now that the holiday season is upon us, I am definitely feeling more nostalgic, but I am very fortunate that my parents & Rebeca will be meeting me in Costa Rica for Christmas this year! I can’t wait for my first group of visitors. : )

Reunited with this guy, from Quito to Medellin!

What’s a day in the life like? No two days are ever the same, and that’s what I like about my current lifestyle. At home I had such a structured routine (wake, run, work, yoga, dinner, sleep, repeat) which worked for me, but now I typically decide in the moment or up to one day in advance. I truly love it and think it makes me a kinder, less stressed out person. I’m generally inclined to over plan my days and weeks, so this is a welcomed change for my brain.

Drinks with cowboys at 10am in a small town outside another small town. It couldn’t have been more spontaneous!

Here’s an example of my day in Bogota, Colombia last week: After breakfast, my friend Hannah and I took the bus downtown where we then took a cable car to the top of Monserrate mountain (10,300ft) and got a breathtaking view of Bogota, a city of nearly 10 million people. After soaking it in, we walked to meet up with two new local friends for lunch. (They also hosted us at their house for a week!) We then went to the Bogota Brewing Company to watch the Colombia vs. Chile soccer/futbol game. We got back on the bus during rush hour, and I was basically carried to the door in a sea of crazy Colombians who do not know how to properly board public transportation. We ended the day by going to a local performance featuring folklore dances from Ecuador, Costa Rica, Mexico, and of course, Colombia. We walked home in the pouring rain (it is often ruthless here!) and had a late night snack of rice, veggies, and plantains before heading to bed.

Views from Monserrate

Today I volunteered 4 hours in a garden and did 90 minutes of yoga and meditation because I am staying at a Hare Krishna community. Totally different!

Planting veggies!

Do I wear makeup? Rarely! I care so much less about what I look like now, and this has been freeing. It’s so easy to roll out of bed and throw on some clothes without looking in a full length mirror. You should try it sometime! ; ) I’ve worn makeup for a few nights out and on my birthday, and it felt like I was playing dress-up! I don’t have any heels here though…I borrowed some in Cali, Colombia when I went to a fancy salsa show with some local friends.

No makeup, espresso please, selfie

What do I wear? I rotate the same outfits every week or so, sometimes wearing the same thing 2-3 days in a row. My socks have holes in them, and things are taking a toll, but this is the new normal for me right now and most other backpackers are in the same boat. While I definitely packed outfits that I think are “cute” and “fashionable” for this trip, I don’t worry about the latest trends or having the perfect bikini body. (Do I even need to worry about these things at home? Probably not.)

I was treated to the works for a night out in Cali, Colombia! I borrowed this dress and heels, and was taken to get my hair and makeup done. Thank you, Monica!! xo

I was treated to the works for a salsa show in Cali, Colombia! I borrowed this dress and heels, and was taken to get my hair and makeup done. Thank you, Monica!! xo

How often do I wash my hair? Once a week! I try to schedule it around hot water and good shower pressure. At home I generally washed it 2x/week so this isn’t a huge departure from my normal routine. I didn’t bring any hair products with me either. #hippielife until I’m home again.

How much longer will I travel for? I don’t know and that’s the exciting part! My money is stretching much farther than originally anticipated, and I don’t feel like stopping now…but I’m trying to take it one day at a time. I don’t know how I will feel tomorrow, next week, or in the new year. All I know is that right now I am happy and I will continue to stay abroad, trying to learn something new about myself and other cultures every day.

Are there any other questions you’d like to ask me for my next “real talk” backpacker post? Please let me know by commenting below! xx

Travel hiccups & how to show proof of travel “onward”

July 28, 2016 by Asia

(Skip down 3 paragraphs to get straight to the advice! Or read my story here first.)

I haven’t even touched down in Quito yet, and this trip is already an adventure. A few days ago, I found out my ride from the airport was no longer picking me up, and the place I was supposed to stay beginning Thursday isn’t ready to host me until Sunday…maybe. Cue mini panic attack. Instead of having a major stressed induced meltdown, I reached out to my network and found a place to stay with a new friend for the first few nights. (Thanks, Jennifer! Even though we haven’t met IRL yet, I can already tell you are awesome!) As far as transportation goes, I will find my own ride from the Quito airport ($2 bus, $8 bus, or $25 taxi) and start putting my Spanish to the test upon arrival. Airports are always the most stressful part of a trip for me. I remember in 2009 when my BFF Nicole and I landed in Bangkok at midnight and a stranger offered to share a taxi with us to our hostel. Stranger danger! Haven’t you seen Taken, sir? Now I am extra happy I decided to land in the afternoon during daylight hours since my plans completely fell through. (Now can you begin to understand why there isn’t much of a point to planning in South America? Ha.)

Last night when I arrived to check-in for my flight at LAX, the woman behind the counter pleasantly informed me that she could not let me on this plane. Excuse me? Since I didn’t have proof that I am ever leaving the country (Ecuador has a 90 day maximum stay), they aren’t supposed to let me in! She told me not to worry; I had 45 minutes to book something and show her proof of my plan to exit the country. (And no she could not help me.) So, sweating profusely and trying to book a bus or a plane on my iPhone (with help from Rebeca from home & from the amazing ladies from my Girls LOVE Travel Facebook group) I finally bought something, thinking it was fully refundable and just a “placeholder” ticket. It turns out that wasn’t the case and I just threw away $370 on a one-way ticket from Quito to Bogota before even leaving the country! There goes my $35/day budget…

Normally I would let these things shake me. A lot. Since I know this trip is a lot of exploration and trial and error, I’m instead trying to take these hiccups as lessons. I am trying to worry less, and live more. I said I wanted adventure and cultural immersion. Well, I’m just chalking this up to all part of the Ecuadorian and backpacker experience. I still don’t technically know when and where I’m supposed to be for my volunteer opportunity on Sunday, and if for some reason it falls through, I know I will be OK. I will find something else to do. I’m on my own timeline and making my own decisions after all! Perspective.

Here are some options** if you need to provide proof of when you will exit a country, even if you don’t know when you plan to leave. (I know I am going to need these options time and time again as I hop from country to country without a plan or end date in sight!)

Book a flight on Orbitz and cancel within 24 hours (…just make sure you book a flight that is actually refundable, unlike me! Read the fine print.)
Rent an onward ticket for just $9.99 with FlyOnward! This service books and cancels your airfare for you! I also tried to use this service but unfortunately it took about 1 hour for them to get my ticket to me, so I ended up using the Orbit option in the meantime since I was under a major time crunch. Plan ahead!
Book a cheap bus fare (or train, etc.) and use it…or not.
“Hold” a ticket for free through Copa Airlines; they will send you a confirmation email without asking for any payment information and hold a valid ticket for 48 hours. Just screenshot it or print a copy to show officials.

**Disclaimer: Consider having a valid ticket purchased in advance (refundable, or not) in order to avoid problems at immigration. Every country and each passport has different requirements, so be sure to do your research before getting on that flight!

Final parting thoughts as I embark on my journey:

What the heck am I getting myself into?
This is going to be such an adventure!
Are my 3 tubes of tinted SPF lip balm, 2 Sunbum flavored lip balms, and 2 generic SPF balms excessive? (I’m obsessed with keeping my lips protected and hydrated.)
I can’t believe I got my backpack to weigh under 10 kilos (22lbs) per Copa Airlines carry-on restrictions! Success!