Why would anyone want to go to Indonesia? First of all they got wild animals like orangutans and big lizards called komodo dragons. Lizards that grow to 10 feet and weigh over 300 pounds and would have no problem devouring me for lunch and even if I get away, a bite from one them would mean certain death. I’m on my way to Indonesia, hoping to see some of those lizards. My first big international trip in two years. Hopefully, I’ll survive. Here are some of the things I do to prepare for a big trip like this. Maybe it will encourage some of you to want to come to Indonesia and see these big lizards too.
I’m a traveler: A woman once told me she went to Mexico. I asked her where in Mexico she went. She replied,”Oh I just stayed on the resort the whole time. I’m afraid of Mexico.” In other words, she really never went to Mexico. I’m a traveler, not a tourist. You won’t find me in resorts, casinos or god worst of all–a cruise ship! Those are contained, artificial environments full of tourists. I want to travel like a local. Experience local food and culture. Travel can be hard and challenging sometimes. It should be.
Plan and do your homework: The most important thing you can do as a traveler. Read guidebooks, research the place you want to go on the internet and most importantly talk to other travelers. Remember: knowledge is power.
Be flexible: Ever see those European tour packages where they try to take you to ten countries in 14 days? It’s far better to spend more time in just a few places. Be flexible and don’t try to do everything. Sometimes the best discoveries you’ll ever make are the unplanned ones.
Flying: Twenty three hours in the air, plus two transfers. That’s around thirty hours to get to my destination. I’m in for an ass kicking. Fortunately service and comfort on big international carriers is always better than domestic. I’m flying on Singapore an airline many consider the best. Singapore Airlines is also part of Star Alliance, the world’s largest. It’s partners include United, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, etc. That means frequent flyer miles and more free trips. I’m half Chinese, so my favorite words are free and
discount. If you’re not signed up for frequent flyer programs–what the hell’s the matter with you? It takes five minutes online. Get signed up!
Pack Light: Ever see all the idiots who pack way too many bags or try to stuff too much shit in the overhead compartments? Most of what they packed they probably won’t even need. I take one bag with me. I’ll also carry a small backpack for day trips. Some things I always pack include: a mini maglite, a roll up rain poncho, insect repellent and a roll of toilet paper. (You’d be surprised at how hard it is to find in some places.)
Safety: A lot of people are afraid to travel overseas because they think it’s unsafe. Are you really safer in the USA? Thanks to those shit for brains people at the NRA any nut job can purchase a semi automatic weapon and shoot up a school, shopping center or workplace. Usually when people get into trouble overseas it’s for doing something really stupid. A friend of mine, got robbed in Brazil, but he was out at 3:00 am taking pictures with his expensive camera. Another seasoned traveler I know, got pick-pocketed when he left his wallet in his back pocket. Always be aware of your surroundings. The person who tries to pickpocket you may not be the shady looking guy on the corner, but an elderly couple or kids working in teams. I always dress down, wear no jewelery other than my cheap watch and only take out my camera only when I want to take a photo of something. I wear a money belt under my shirt. You can also sew velcro onto your pockets or use safety pins. It makes it that much harder for you to be a victim of crime.
Accommodations: To keep my costs down, I stay in small family run hotels and guest houses or dormitory style hostels. When I tell people this, they usually imagine me staying crime infested crack houses that charge rates by the hour. These places are far from it. Not only do I save money, by staying in places like these, but it also allows me to meet and exchange information with other travelers.
The view of the world from a desk or workspace sucks! I share information with you so that you will get out and travel too. It’s not rocket science. It’s not expensive. If I can do it then anyone can. You just have to plan ahead and sometimes think outside the box. I’ll share more tips as I hit the road. If you like to respond to me, please be respectful and reply only to me.