Andi's Adventures in Vietnam: What I've picked up along the way

Yesterday, October 12^th marked my 3^rd month of being over here. It’s gone by so fast, I can hardly believe it, and yet being in Vietnam shows me how used to Thailand and its people I’ve gotten. Today also marks the half way point of my big vacation. It’s strange to be away for what seems like so long. Normally my vacations are weekends or extended weekend trips, which are a couple of jam packed days and then back to reality. This is a new experience for me, not only because it’s a long solo vacation, but also because it’s my first time as truly a “backpacker,” moving—on a budget—from place to place. The best is all the new things you learn from people and places along the way. I’ve met some very interesting travelers so far (always a perk when you’re on your own). Israeli’s, Singapore, German & Finish so far. The German and the Finish really gave me a lesson on true backpacker culture. They schooled me on everything from where to book your hostels to “backpacker jobs,” which is an actual term. People truly make a life of traveling nonstop for months on end or years even. They pick up odd jobs along the way, live super cheap, and then move on to the next destination. The Finish guy is on a 9 month trip! From my weekend getaways in Thailand and then here, I’m also learning the ins and outs of backpacker culture. I know all about the different (and most economical) modes of transportation (and trust me, there are many). I’m getting used to staying in hostel type hotels that are a long way from the Motel 6 even. I know to always keep toilet paper, liquid soap, & a towel with me (towel for the hotels that only give you a thin blanket, and for those grungy buses where the pillows & seat haven’t ever been cleaned. Toilet paper bc very few bathrooms over here have it). After talking to the Europeans that I met on the bus, I realize that I have barely scratched the surface of backpacker life. Anyway, I find it fascinating, and something I truly wish I would have done years ago. The German girl said traveling is like a virus and she is certainly right—it takes over and you can’t get rid of the hunger for more!