Setting Travel Goals

My travel goals were simple. Get the body into shape, create a trustworthy, easy-to-follow travel itinerary, and tip the social, emotional and mental scales in my favor. Confidence and preparedness was imperative.

I spent several weeks lifting weights and using cords to build up my legs, arms and shoulders so I could lug a 25-30 lb. ‘fully-loaded’ backpack. This would be a pilgrimage in search of cathartic moments – void of bellhops, taxis, tour guides and tour groups. All necessities would be hauled on my back. I felt ready by travel time.

I dodged small communities that a more indulgent traveler might prefer on a journey like this. I was interested in having the cultural core of each country at my disposal, and that is often found in the largest city of the countries I had planned to explore. That decision was right for me.