Ugly & Beautiful Travel
I’ve vomited in the Caribbean Sea due to a broken scuba diving regulator, and I’ve been deceived into a three-hour hike in Bali where I was offered volcano-steamed eggs at the top—with no seasoning—for breakfast.
I’ve overindulged in chocolate candy bars more than once, putting me in situations of dire diarrhea: from waddling in tears on the Russian subway to locking eyes with hyenas on an explosive journey to the toilet during an African safari.
I’ve been scammed out of a tailor-made suit in Thailand, and I’ve slept overnight in a hammock after roaches raided my house in the Central American rainforest. I was forced to eat duck on a Singaporean layover, and I’ve been chased by wild dogs during a photoshoot in Tanzania.
I’ve stayed in the extra room of a host family. I’ve stayed in tents, Airbnbs, and even on a stranger’s couch using Couchsurfing.com. I’ve tried goat and alligator, and I’ve been comforted by the best average greasy pizza a developing country in a remote area has to offer.
I’ve embarrassed myself attempting to surf on the Gold Coast of Australia. I’ve been stuck on an eight-hour Spanish-speaking bus ride with no bathroom. I’ve been urgently questioned by non-American airport security—more than once—about my hair pick being a possible piercing weapon.
I’ve seen temples and holy sites of indigenous peoples. I’ve had the pleasure of peacocks visiting my morning doorstep. I’ve laughed at the amazing slowness of sloths in their natural environment. And I’ve even got a picture of a wild monkey climbing up my shoulder to eat a piece of bread.
Travel is the best way to bring new cultures and worldly perspectives into your life. It can completely change your viewpoint on things that matter.
Being from the Midwest in the States—or from anywhere in the States without outside influence—can cause, and often does cause, limited perspective and limited growth.
I want you to know that travel, like most things, is often much closer in reach than you think. The opportunity to speak with others about their lives and journeys… the chance to meet someone who acts just like you but was born into a life not like yours… the forever images of beaches and mountains and even extreme poverty—it all adds to your skill points and personal development.
Whether it’s encouragement to book a plane ticket, confirmation on where to go and why, or even just simple curiosity to learn more about this American nomad—I’m glad you’ve stumbled into GYG.
