Who?

So I kind of introduced myself in my previous post, but basically I am a girl who, at the age of 24, has made a conscious decision to drop out. I have spent some time travelling and teaching abroad, and have always intended to travel again at some point. Having graduated last summer, and become bored within about 3 hours of starting work, I decided to stop pretending to want to do something ‘sensible’ with my life for the next few years and spend my twenties travelling, writing and having amazing adventures.

What?

This blog will be my record. I’m very big on collecting memories and finding ways to relive my experiences – I’m the girl who collects hostel business cards and insists on taking embarrassing pictures of my dinner in restaurants. I love the way a song, a taste or a photograph can immediately transport you back in time or halfway around the world. I will be documenting everything about my journey, from planning to flying to actually travelling. Hopefully the blog will provide a wealth of useful information for those wishing to learn from my inevitable mistakes, or just provide some encouragement for those who long to touch down in a dusty, sun soaked faraway land but aren’t sure they can.

Why?

I think the question should be; why on earth not? Life is hard for 20-somethings right now – we were brought up on promises and expectations of success that have been dashed by recession and economic turmoil. The upshot of this is the chance to make our own opportunities, and for me that means the chance to see and experience the world. It almost feels as though I have no choice but to travel – I am scared of course, but far scarier is the thought of looking back and saying ‘I wish I had’. Plus the fact that it’ll be an amazing experience, will make me a better and more evolved human being, and I’ll get to meet interesting people, write, take photographs and live freely doing exactly what I want (this is the selfish bit).

Where?

I’m not sure yet. There are so many things to see, so many countries to experience, that my travel daydreams change daily depending on my mood – sometimes I’m blasting down the old Route 66 in a red convertible, sometimes wading into crystal turquoise waters, sometimes gliding serenely through a Buddhist temple. I want to do all of it; it’s simply a question of where to first?

When?

Estimated departure date will be March 2013. The return date is open-ended (although I imagine I’ll have to at least fly back for Christmas or Mum will never forgive me).

How?

I will be beginning my travels by teaching English as a foreign language. This will allow me to experience one location for a significant period whilst I continue to save in order to fund some time to travel without having to work. I hope that by alternating a few months teaching with a few months travelling, I will be able to prolong my time abroad and travel to at least most of the places I want to see.

Are you a traveller? Do you have any tips or advice for me? I’m going to need all the help I can get, so please share in the comments!