Live Uncomfortably

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The Panama Canal A Can’t miss?

1. Travel Is Expensive

Most people think they need to save a ton of money to travel for 6-12 months. It’s absolutely not true. In fact, I’d be willing to bet you’ll spend less than when you’re living at home - especially if you avoid Europe. I’ve often struggled to spend $1,000 a month in South America.
2. You Need An Itinerary

You absolutely shouldn’t have a defined itinerary if you have more than a few weeks to travel. It makes your trip worse because you’re always in a hurry and you can also get stuck somewhere you don’t really want to be.

In November, I booked a ticket flying from Colombia to Argentina at the end of December. About 2 weeks into my stay in Colombia I realized I didn’t want to leave the country…but I had a non-refundable plane ticket so I left anyway.

3. Water Is Unsafe To Drink Everywhere You Go

Before I begin with this one, I’ll admit that I got violently sick in Panama from bad water. But, that’s the only time in 7 months of consistently drinking tap water. And I’ve drank tap water in just about every city I’ve been to in South America.

Don’t hold me to this if your butt explodes.

4. You Have To Do Something Every Night

If you’ve only got 2 weeks you’re going to have to pack it in. But if you’re on extended travel you don’t have to go out every night. In fact, it will help stretch the dollars on your trip if you don’t. Don’t feel guilty if you sit some nights out.

5. Hostels Are Always The Cheapest & Best Option

Many, many cities have cheap hotels and cabanas that you should consider. Hostels are sweet for interacting with people from Australia and the UK, but they’re not always the best option.

Just walk around the city a bit once you get there and you should be able to find a room for as cheap or cheaper than a hostel. And, some might be slightly more expensive but you wont be sleeping in a room with 8 other people.

6. You Need A Guide Book

Helpful, but not necessary. Follow the gringo trail for too long and you’ll ruin all sponteneity.

7. You Have To See All The Tourist Sights

This is related to #6. Some of the ‘touristy’ things are absolute crap, i.e. the Panama canal. If you miss it, don’t worry. I’m sure you can find a better time that will translate to better life stories than watching a giant ship go through a series of locks.