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Old 12-17-2008, 05:59 PM   #1
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Default 35 days and counting, need help in preparations

I made the decision yesterday, and finalized it today, to do something I am always wanted to. I just bought a one-way plane ticket to Guatemala City and I leave January 22, was tentatively going to be the 20th but I pushed it back two days to be at home for my birthday.

I have always been stuck on the logistics of trying to do what I want that it kept me stationary more often than not. Now, I am throwing that to the wind and seeing where my desires take me.

As for a little info about me, I'm 21, turning 22 two days before I leave. I work at an organic cranberry farm in Wisconsin. I get laid off for the winter after harvest is complete. I have always loved going new places and traveling. I've been to Germany a couple times but I've always has the dream to go see central america and south america.

I tried to do some searches for what I am currently trying to find information on but there are some things I wasn't able to find.

A list of what I will be taking I will be working on shortly and will update this post with that information and be looking for additional guidance on that, though the sticky post on what to pack I feel will help alot.

Two things I am currently really looking for input on is getting the right pack and shoes. I do have a decent backpack that has worked for me in past camping trips but I am unsure of its actual comfort in an extended foot travel situation. I don't want a huge pack, I want something that is a reasonable size. I don't need a ton of crap, I want to bring as little as possible. As for shoes, I have worn my current ones down past the treads and they are not in the shape to travel. I would love some input on some durable and comfortable shoes.

My intentions are to work my way south from Guatemala though Central America and time depending into South America before returning north to the states. I am planning to not make plans . I am going to try to do this as cheaply as possible. I sure starting off I will not be doing everything I can to preserve my cash supply but I am not too worried, for three months after I leave I will still be able to collect unemployment and have that deposited to my bank account. So by then I should have the hang of it.

When I first thought about traveling, I had been looking first to go wwoofing in central america but had difficulties finding a host and then I spent time looking for a host on organicvolunteers.com in Hawaii but had difficulties there as well trying to find something mutually beneficial to both myself and a host.

That is it for the moment, it funny I'm already getting butterfiles from the moment I confirmed my ticket. Anyways, any help is much appreciated.
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Old 12-17-2008, 07:34 PM   #2
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Wow, best of luck, I can't really help you with anything Central or South America, but there are others that will be able to. As far as shoes go, definitely make sure you break them in before you go no matter what type you get. Are you going to be doing a lot of hiking? Make sure you get a pair with good traction. I've got these Keen shoes that kind of look nice, but also have decent traction and worked for me when I hiked this summer. Maybe go to an outdoors store and get one of the workers to help you try on shoes and make suggestions. While you're there you can also look at packs and get recommendations.
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Old 12-18-2008, 09:40 AM   #3
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Quote:
Originally Posted by wakingside View Post

My intentions are to work my way south from Guatemala though Central America and time depending into South America before returning north to the states. I am planning to not make plans . I am going to try to do this as cheaply as possible. I sure starting off I will not be doing everything I can to preserve my cash supply but I am not too worried, for three months after I leave I will still be able to collect unemployment and have that deposited to my bank account. So by then I should have the hang of it.
Sounds like an adventure. But it is easy to find work there? I mean, all the migrant workers from S. America come to US/Canada because there's no jobs there... what kind of work will you be doing?
(I have no idea of labour conditions in S. America by the way, I'm just asking).
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Old 12-18-2008, 10:05 AM   #4
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Canadian Bacon View Post
Sounds like an adventure. But it is easy to find work there? I mean, all the migrant workers from S. America come to US/Canada because there's no jobs there... what kind of work will you be doing?
(I have no idea of labour conditions in S. America by the way, I'm just asking).

i didnt literally mean work, i meant just traveling
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Old 12-18-2008, 06:13 PM   #5
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Glad you went for it. Kinda like jumping over that ledge.
Do you have any Spanish speaking skills?
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Old 12-18-2008, 06:41 PM   #6
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I know some basic stuff, could use some work

Found some good columbia shoes, had an awesome pair before and I hope these match up
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Old 12-19-2008, 02:52 PM   #7
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Just remember not to skimp on the socks and underwear
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