Leaving in half a day. It's about freaking time. Didn't intend to wait this long to leave but plans change quickly, as I'm sure they will along my travels. That's why I've only got a plane ticket with an open return date and one night's accomodation booked. Other than that, just a loose plan and general direction in my head that I'm secretly hoping won't come to reality. Spontaneity's the key this time round.
Ok, for those who didn't really know that I was leaving, here's the abbreviated overview. What spawned from a multi-week hiking trip has turned into a few months travel and ideally volunteer/work across South America. I'll be flying to Santiago on Sunday and then going overland through Chile, Argentina, and Bolivia with some close Aussie friends. After that, I venture solo and everything's up in the air.
Commonly Asked Questions as of late:
Why are you taking off traveling again?
- It's just its turn in the study/work/travel cycle. Felt that drive to hit the road and thought why not. I'm not running from anything or trying to find myself. Those journeys have long past. Everything's great here in Mississauga/Toronto. That really came into perspective during the last month when I was spending 80% of my days just thinking about this and that. So I would pretty much attribute this trip to a craving for adventure and an opportunity to see old friends again. That sounds reasonable, right? So to all those who still scoff at what I choose to do and think this is a waste of time, screw you! I still have 50 years to work and piece my life back together.
Why South America?
- My goal I set a few years ago was to travel every continent before I turn 30. So it was pretty much down to South America, Africa, or Antartica. And somewhere between being inspired by the Motorcycle Diaries to wanting to snowboard in the Andes to trekking Patagonia, I chose South America (choosing actually consisting of a gut reaction that didn't involve any decision weighing whatsoever). I still really want to visit Africa but more so to work on a health project, hopefully during my graduate studies. And loaf around on a remote South Pacific Island when I turn 30.
When are you coming back?
- I'll definitely be home by middle May for all the wedding and bachelor parties, most likely sooner.
How are you affording this?
- Dude, it doesn't cost an arm and a leg, particularly where I'm going. I just set aside some savings and worked from there. Living at home and being a social recluse helped too. Trust me, time was a way larger obstacle than money. Besides, the cocaine is much cheaper when you buy local.
What goals do you have for this trip?
- To not necessarily have goals, if that makes sense. To suppress expectations. To deliver letters for Jane to Colombia and Ecuador. To find one new LA respondent for Ana. To come home in a few months and be able to say "damn, if just for that one time when _____, the entire trip was worth it."
Are you bringing home a Latin American wife and illegitimate children?
- Never say never. Stay tuned...
(just kidding mom 
)
How's your Spanish?
- Mamacita, me acompanas a casa? Quiero hacerte el amor.
What are you most excited for?
- Camping out in the Andes, doing things I wouldn't dare at home
And dreading?
- Following the rainy season around, killer mosquitoes, the cities, boredom
What will you miss most?
- Besides obviously friends and family (for the most part), in no particular order...snowboarding, Raptors games, white Xmas, my shower, ability to properly communicate, Chinese food, a culture that shuns speedos and short shorts...this list will grow quickly as time moves on.
What will you miss least?
- You.
