Why just go?

I’ve done the sitting around. I’ve done the wishing. I’ve said the “one days” I said “soon”.

It’s what we do when were young with big dreams. these dreams in our young, growing minds, seem “impossible” to so many, but ourselves. I remember when I first told someone I was about to set out on an adventure across the country, they didn’t think it would “actually” happen. I made it happen.

Felt the doubt that people had in me, was more fuel to my fire. I was ready to go experience, grow, learn, meet people and make the most of it.

The world has always excited me since I was young. I always had maps hanging around my room and loved to see pictures of different places compared to where I grew up. As I began to grow, I knew i wanted to learn about other cultures, landmarks, experience countries first hand.

In Spring of 2018, my best friend and I planned a trip to Thailand for 3 weeks. We bought our tickets three weeks before heading to Thailand. Upon arrival in Bangkok, Thailand. Lex and I looked at each other and said, “Where are we staying tonight?”. Two girls 12:50 am in Bangkok, Thailand no set itinerary but to explore one beautiful country. We made our way to Northern Thailand all the way to Southern Thailand, hitting 13 different cities/ports. Experiencing Beaches, Elephants, Monkeys, Temples, Street Food, Viewpoints, Nightlife, Natives. With everything I experienced I not only enjoyed every second, but I gained so much personal knowledge. I feel so much more in touch with who I am, what my passions are, where I want to be, and what I enjoy spending my time doing. Traveling. I’m set out to accomplish what I want in this life of MINE.

Now, with all the fun and the breathtaking experiences, it still gets BETTER. We spent a total of 840 US Dollars in Thailand. The conversion rate fluctuated upon different kiosks but maintained between 30-33 Thai Bhat per 1 US Dollar. Perspective, every meal was average 60-90 Baht. (about 3 USD). Not a bag of chips, a full Yellow Curry with Rice and Veggies. Our nights stays were average 200 Baht (6 USD).

DON’T YOU WANNA GO?

Before you stomp anything down. Let me discuss a few things with you about what may be stopping you from JUST GOING:

1. Safety

2. Language Barrier

3. Time

SAFETY

Leaving this country, is always a risk. A risk is a situation involving exposure to danger. We took that risk.

Going in you’ll know that, just prepare. I had a Money Belt that was under my shirt at all times. The belt carried my important information such as passport, cards, cash, tickets and keys. That was a step to knowing I was safe because I had all of my most important things touching my body at all times. Throughout traveling, I’m always very aware. Notice things going around you and don’t put yourself into a state of tunnel vision. Research where you plan to travel. Talk to people. Do some research on ways to stay safe in that specific place!

LANGUAGE BARRIER

Don’t let that stop you! Let yourself learn the native language. Before you go, learn a few simple words to make yourself feel comfortable in a general greeting. Hello, Good-Bye, Please, Thank you. One thing I have learned along the way was people who tend to deal with tourists, generally know some English. Give it your best effort, and the natives appreciate it.

TIME

Time is one currency we can NEVER get back. Take advantage of the ticking clock now. Vacation time can be tough to come by but when you really want something you work for it, and there for you make it happen. You don’t need months to spend, get a hot two weeks and you’re set for a 14-day adventure to somewhere you’ve dreamed, do it!

There are so many ways in this world to talk yourself out of traveling. The danger risk, language barrier and no time can hold you from pressing that book button. There are ways to work around anything stopping you.

There’s a big world out there, go explore it!