http://www.nomadbackpackers.com exploring the world for the first time Mon, 05 Jan 2009 04:43:03 +0000 http://backend.userland.com/rss092 en [ad#topgreen_oldpost] While backpacking through various countries I have noticed that the types of food available differ regionally.  One way for a budget traveler to tap into the region specific foods is by adapting to new ways of eating and preparing food.  Specifically, produce can differ in huge ways and, depending upon ... http://www.nomadbackpackers.com/2009/01/05/when-life-gives-you-x-make-y [ad#topgreen_oldpost] The Milford Sound is one of the “must see” natural attractions for most visitors to New Zealand’s South Island. A multimillion dollar a year industry is in place to funnel visitors from all over the country to the Milford Sound by plane, boat, and bus. In fact, the Milford Road, ... http://www.nomadbackpackers.com/2008/12/31/milford-sound-hype-and-the-expectation-game [ad#topgray_oldpost] During 2008 Justin and I have experienced a lot of life change and adventure.  Although, we have only been backpacking for three months, most of our Top 10 list is from our travels.  If you are interested in the planning process and/or are considering some global travel of your own ... http://www.nomadbackpackers.com/2008/12/30/nomad-backpackers-top-10-list-of-2008 [ad#topgreen_oldpost] Tuesday morning was the third morning I woke up with a sore throat.  It had become apparent, from the white dots that lined my tonsils, that I had strep throat.  Unfortunately, although I was 100% certain that I had strep, just as in the States I had to jump through ... http://www.nomadbackpackers.com/2008/12/30/strep-throat-in-new-zealand-in-the-summer Over the course of a month, my work issued me a uniform that needs to be worn whenever I work in the restaurant, the bar, or the kitchen. Obtaining the standard issue long sleeve button down black shirt was not a problem. The pants however, represented a unique sort of ... http://www.nomadbackpackers.com/2008/12/25/in-life-pants-always-beats-no-pants Natalie and I would like to wish all of our loyal (and not so loyal) readers, as well as our friends and family a very Merry Christmas. Wherever you’re at in the world, I trust that this year you will appreciate what you have and, if you get a chance, ... http://www.nomadbackpackers.com/2008/12/24/merry-nomadic-christmas-2008 People who travel the world (whether for a week or a year) inevitably take part in, what I will simply call, "the cultural exchange game". As an American, it is tempting to believe that all cultural exchanges flow in one direction. After all, many local people appear to possess an ... http://www.nomadbackpackers.com/2008/12/22/soft-gooey-chocolate-chip-cookies Justin and I recently received two separate Christmas surprises.  As we got home from work yesterday, I checked the mail and, surprise, a Christmas card from my grandma and grandpa was waiting for us.  Mailed all the way from the United States. I opened it up and inside was a family ... http://www.nomadbackpackers.com/2008/12/21/far-away-christmas-cheer [ad#topgreen_oldpost] Wealth, in my experience, appears to breed a narrowing of perspective by its possessor. The more wealth an individual accumulates is often directly proportional to the decrease in their understanding of non wealthy lifestyles. Over the past 3 weeks I have worked for a service based hospitality/tourism lodge that caters to ... http://www.nomadbackpackers.com/2008/12/19/the-singular-perspective-of-wealth [ad#topgreen_oldpost] I recently received an email from my Aunt Lynette.  Being the fun aunt that she is, the email was full of interesting questions.  Instead of simply replying to her email, I thought I should post my answers for everyone. Lynette: Do you have to wear a uniform where you work? I'm ... http://www.nomadbackpackers.com/2008/12/18/reader-response-new-zealand-culture