Preparing for the vagabond life....

[LotusAmrita]

Hey there,

My name is Emma. I've been reading a lot of great stuff on this forum, so I thought I would share my story! I have always had a problem with the western style of living. Granted, we are so fortunate in so many ways, but on the other hand, I feel like I am apart of a society that takes everything for granted and just doesn't seem to grasp the concept of life. It is so much more than the job you have, the money you make, the fancy cars and gadgets.... so I've decided to embark on the quest I've been craving for my whole life; to become a vagabond.

Lucky for me, my partner feels the same way, and we've both decided to do this together. I'm interested in hearing people's opinion on traveling with a loved one. We are working so save up a bit of money here, while trying to get our passports together, sell our stuff, etc etc. It's pretty hectic, but super exciting. I'm nervous about not having enough money, and I suppose the anticipation of it all is grinding on my nerves a bit too. I tried to go tree planting to make some money, but after a week I found that I hated it and was not willing to put my body through terrible conditions for money (another reason I'm leaving; money means nothing to me and I hate my culture's perception of it). Hopefully it will work out before we leave. We plan to be gone by August, stopping in San Fransisco, maybe doing some couch surfing and working at a potentially lined up job under the table before heading to Burning Man, then heading to Mexico City and working our way down South. I'd like to go to Australia after to make some more money doing fruit picking, then chill around before going to Asia or something. There's kind of an idea of what to do, but we're just going to go with the flow and hope that it all works out!

I am thinking of doing a blog to highlight my adventures. I think there are so many dreamers like us out there, and I want to help inspire people to turn that into a reality.

Cheers <3

[Greg]

Welcome Emma!

You ARE very fortunate to have a partner who feels the same; that's a rare and great thing. The road is a real test for relationships. Stress and low comfort can make for some bickering, so If you survive travel together, you can do anything together.

The good news is that couples have many advantages on the road. As for work, I've seen many hostels, farms, and other places specifically asking for a "couple" to help out, work for a while, etc.

Everyone is nervous about money, but I promise that you will not starve. It's almost uncanny how the road sends opportunities your way when you need them most -- just have to stay positive and attract good stuff to happen.

I agree, tree planting is hellish on the back; not for me!

You are right, there ARE a lot of dreamers out there, stuck in nightmares where they don't deserve or belong. That's why I built these crusty little websites.    Certainly send me your blog when you get ready and I'll post it around. A few blogs inspired me to chase my dreams back in 2005, so let's keep the ball rolling!

See you on the road!

[DOrtiz]

Best of luck to you! Blogging is a wonderful idea and I am sure will inspire many

[roofleaf]

Hello! Would be interesting to hear how you're doing in your adventure. Peace!