When traveling alone in a foreigh country and you need a hand someone generally shows up. It must be an unspoken law of the universe. Someone will be by your side just when you want to scream out to the world, “HELP! I can’t read this map. The street names are driving me crazy. I can’t understand a word on a menu. And I barely remember where my hotel is because I forgot to take an address card.” Dah! It never fails that the nicest people will notice the agony on your face, and additionally, see a way to practice their English (I’ve been told it’s easy to spot an American. I’m not asking how; I don’t want to know), and Voila, you might have a guide for the day. When I’m in a tight spot in a foreign country I ask myself, “What’s the worst thing that can happen to me right now?” Perhaps I have a lack of imagination, because when I ask this question, always I see myself sleeping on a bench at the local police station.
Travel essay books give great ideas as to the what, why and how of traveling. For instance, I just finished reading PASSIONATE NOMAD The Life of FREYA STARK by Jane Fletcher Geniesse. Freya Stark was an unstoppable traveler, or after reading the book, you might say she was simply unstoppable, and her life was an exciting adventure. Travel & Leisure says of the book, “Freya Stark was one of the most intrepid adventurers of all time. . . . Jane Fletcher Geniesse brings to life this intense, original personality, and her often dangerous exploits.”
If you want to get going, but have questions, read a good travel essay book. It can give insight as to the way other travelers see the world, and other views start to unfold for you, after which you just might find youself purchasing a one-way ticket to who knows where for who knows how long.
“To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasant sensations in the world. You are surrounded by adventure. You have no idea of what is in store for you, but you will, if you are wise and know the art of travel, let yourself go on the stream of the unknown and accept whatever comes in the spirit in which the gods may offer it.” – Freya Stark, The JOURNEYS ECHO