Oh, my goodness gracious me! I must write this post to thank all the amazing and wonderful people who have written to me since the "Daily Telegraph" and 'The Lonely Planet" posted articles about me. Or should I say about Backpacker Granny.
I am simply overwhelmed at the amount of lovely e-mails, messages, Facebook chats, etc.
I have had many people asking me HOW I manage to travel on a small pension. Well it is very simple. Firstly, I should tell you that I do spend a lot of time in Asia and apart from the fact that I love and adore this part of the world, the cost of living is far cheaper than in the western world. I travel backpacker style, staying in low cost basic hostels, and normally eat the local food (which by the way is delicious.) Many will say that they are afraid to try the local fare, but believe me it is an experience that one should not pass by. There are a lot of low cost airlines in Asia but if you really are on a super tight budget, there is always the bus or train, many of which will do a night trip so you can also save on accommodation.
I have also had an incredible number of letters from lovely ladies and gentlemen telling me that they are scared or afraid to travel on their own. I think that is pretty much a feeling that most of us can go through. The thought of the unknown can be very scary. But it should never ever be a deterrent to stop you fulfilling your dreams and getting out there to see our great big marvelous world. Always remember that you are never alone. You will meet people at the airports, on the flights, on the buses, in the trains, at the hostels. And there will always like minded lone backpackers who will be only too happy to join up with you for a few days.
Many years ago, I one day found myself on my own with three children to care for and bring up. It wasn’t easy but every evening when I used to pace the floor at night wondering how I would manage. There was one question that always used to pop into my mind. “What is the worst that can happen?” The answer was never a bad as I thought it would be! And I of course my children and I all survived. Ever since that time in my life whenever I have had any qualms or misgivings and even today when I am doing what I love best, which is travelling, I still ask myself the same question. “What is the worst that can happen?”
Here is a great quote for all would be Backpackers: -
Plunge boldly into the thick of life, and seize it where you will, it is always interesting.”
- Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe
Just a few tips to remember before I sign off.
Don’t forget to have all your visas in order. Make sure you have a tip top medical insurance to cover for return flights, taxis, hospital fees, etc. check that any medication you may be on is available in the countries you are going to visit. Keep those wretched mosquitos away with a good repellent. Take my advice and please don’t take hordes of luggage you really won’t need it. There is nothing worse than trying to move from one place to another with a backpack that weight a thousand kilos.
Once again thank you all so very much for your kindness and support. I am always here should you need any help or advise on traveling on a shoestring.
