Posted: 2007-04-10 15:06:00
hiya,
I have always wanted to travel to another country, backpack around for a month or so and try to get some volunteer work in while doing so. However, my immediate problem is, I want to go EVERYWHERE! haha I am looking for push-off suggestions or tips for a first time backpacker. Where might I want to start off? I am 23y male, and want to get into everything about the country or region I go to.
Are there any areas that a first-timer might want to hold off on? I don't intend to make this my only adventure of this sort, I hope to continue doing it for many many years. I have been reading a lot of what everyone is saying on the boards and it's all incredible and makes me really anxious to get started on a trip! haha Thanks!
Jonny
[ This Message was edited by: jonnyquest on 2007-04-10 15:07 ]
Posted: 2007-06-03 13:44:00
It's never easy to answer a question as wide open as this. Even with my limited experience outside Europe, I can think of so many possible places. Moreover some indication of what you would be able to spend might help.
However I suggest that for your first trip you might want to go to an area where language is not a problem. There is some appeal in going where they don't speak your own and I see from your profile that you have Spanish down as a second langusge. That still leaves a huge area.
In the Americas I've only been to Peru and there can't be anything wrong with that but, taking your point about this only being a first trip, it might make more historical sense if you go to Spain itself first.
The next stage is easier. Although I have much enjoyed breaks in various other parts of Spain, I have no hesitation in suggesting Andalucía for a first visit. That still leaves a lot of choice but I should need a few more clues; history or scenery or a mix? coast, mountains or a mix?
If I can help further, perhaps you would make personal contact through my guest book - or by contacting me by e-mail if you prefer.
David
--- Grieve not for that which you cannot do but rejoice in that which you can.
Posted: 2008-01-18 03:49:00
It is a great idea which travelling all over the world. I have the same idea at one time, but I gave up because of many limiting factors. However, many years later-maybe my boyfriend and i retired, this dream will become true, it is our dating.
I envy you you can travel now. Some countries in Europe are best because of your second language--Spanish. It is not problem to communicate the local people. Accumulating experience together with learning other languages which used other countries during your trip. So you can travel any country which you want to go. And have a travelling companion will be prefect . Such ideas so far, i will be here if i have later.
hope this helps!
Posted: 2008-03-22 21:43:00
Jonny, since you speak Spanish, why not tour through Central America? El Salvador has wonderful undiscovered beaches, Guatemala and Honduras have some terrific Mayan ruins, the bus services are fairly reliable, and airfare to get there is cheap. Europe has a lot to offer, but Central America gives you an appreciation of a much different economic and value system. The Mayan Mountains of Guatemala let you see how Mayan tribes are carrying on today and the hiking is incredible. Volcanic mountains with stunning crater lakes that are warm enough to swim in like a bath. Southern Mexico also has a number of really amazing ruins. It would be a great starting point for you.
Eire
--- Life is not measured by the breaths you take but by the moments that take your breath away.
