After reading up on regional health concerns, and assuring myself that I was more likely to die from actually catching a disease than from the vaccine, Natalie and I headed off to our 2:30 pm medical travel consultation. I have a confession. I hate being late. At times, I am almost convinced that it is [...] [...more]
Traveling to Europe in the beginning of October is not, under different circumstances, how I would have planned to start a world backpacking adventure. I really want to travel to Iran, Tajikistan, Nepal, and Tibet. This week, Natalie and I realized that, using our current plan (traveling around the Mediterranean area for 3-4 months before [...] [...more]
Although Natalie and I are hoping to attract sponsors, we are not waiting around for a miracle. Thus, we spent a few hours at REI this week. REI, if you are not aware, operates as a co-op. Co-op members enjoy special benefits (10% discount on regular priced items, access to REI classes etc.) including access to their annual Garage [...] [...more]
In an attempt to begin planning, and visualizing the route that Natalie and I may take during our upcoming budget travel extravaganza, I have started to use google maps to create a specific nomad backpackers route. This route will include the travel methods we will use (i.e. plane, bus, train, ferry) as well as how [...] [...more]
Work, save money, go travel the world! This week has been full. I have worked each of the last 7 days, Monday – Sunday, which is mother’s day (hi Mom!). My week is finally over and done but Monday is tomorrow and, well, I think it is clear that my life has become about work. [...] [...more]
The more we talk to people (i.e. friends, family members, complete strangers) the more conversations we have that go something like this. Justin: Actually, we are not sure how long we are going to be gone. Random Other: I see. Well that sounds exciting….. Hey, have you ever thought of going to Estonia (enter your [...] [...more]
A couple of weeks ago, a good friend of mine (Ben) sincerely asked me the following questions - What is your inspiration or reason for doing this? - What do you want to accomplish? - What will you do with your life when this is over? Although I have considered these questions in one form [...] [...more]
As stated in post 1, to save cash for our journey Natalie and I are attempting to cut our expenses and increase our income. Increasing our income As Natalie is currently working part time for Starbucks, we can greatly increase our income if she begins to work full time. To that end, Natalie has taken [...] [...more]
Any one can plan a trip. Decide on dates and times. Book transportation, lodging, and sort out the details. I’ve done this before. It feels safe and good. Sort of like a warm, fuzzy blanket that is wrapped around me on a cold night. Don’t get me wrong, even with each detail “planned” to perfection, [...] [...more]
Where did this all start? It was really a variety of concepts, ideas, plans, dreams, and well, it all came together. Now we want to be nomad backpackers. My brother (Philip) is getting married in Italy on 10-Oct-2008. Justin and I decided as soon as Phil and Amy announced their engagement that we should take [...] [...more]