If you’ve visited this site before, then you may know that I’ve traveled to more than 25 countries (on 5 continents), including some that might be considered ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ journeys; I’ve also had “life-changing” experiences along the way. I feel great about where I’ve been and have no regrets.
Of course, there’s a lot more to see and I’m sure I’ll make much of it happen, but will I get to do all of it? There are certain destinations—ones I now call “fantasy trips”—that seem to have eluded me. They’re the places I bring up when people say, “If you could go anywhere, where would you go?”
Lately, I’ve been thinking about where I’m going next and wondering if I might be able to take one of these trips. Here’s the list (in random order.)
1. Tibet/Nepal/Bhutan
Why I want to go
All three look like something out of a dream—one that I’ve always had. I love places that offer peace/quiet and zen-like moments; hiking on lovely mountains shrouded in mist; and opportunities for cultural immersion abound. I smile when I imagine what it would be like to stay in a small village getting to know the locals and hanging out in a Buddhist temple or two. My cup of tea, frankly.
Why I haven’t gone…yet
Timing I think that June-August—when I could actually go–is not the ideal time to visit (although I’ve read some conflicting information on this.) I’d like to actually see the mountains versus thick gray sky. I find rain, especially a few days in a row, to be a downer.
“It’s complicated” and expensive Tibet’s tricky (and perhaps even unsafe in a few areas) for a number of reasons. Nepal has a high altitude (I’d really want to go to Mt. Everest’s base camp) and I have a hint of asthma—not enough to medicate, fortunately. I suppose I’d need time to acclimate and would have to bring an inhaler just in case.
And Bhutan is super expensive. $250 a night, last time I checked. Each of these, for different reasons, would require a permit and a tour (at least for part of the time) and “ouch” to the prices I’ve been finding. Also, I wonder about the logistics of moving from country to country. Tricky perhaps.
2. Indonesia
Why I want to go
There are many reasons including nature (from rice paddies to volcanoes to gorgeous lakes, etc.), the indigenous cultures, Bali’s unique vibe and so much more. The country offers a lot diversity and seems really unique to me.
Also, I’m sure it would provide a serious Chicky Bus sort of ride—ie, some really cool/quirky adventures off the beaten path. If I were to go, I would definitely want to check out Sumatra and perhaps another island and not just Bali.
Why I haven’t gone…yet
I almost went this past summer, but then—for very good reasons—didn’t go. Now, however, I don’t have those same reasons and this sort of trip could potentially work for me. In fact, it’s sort of inched its way up higher on my list. And although the ticket’s expensive, once one is there, it’s cheap. So, hmmm–I can’t think of a reason why I wouldn’t go, which means that this is looking possible.
3. Papua New Guinea
Why I want to go
I’m fascinated by indigenous cultures and these guys (and girls) seem the real deal. One reason is that it’s not so easy to get/stay there. Sure there’s a certain amount tourism, but I imagine that the tribes have not been affected to the extent that they’re doing tings just because tourists are coming to town; I would think they’re simply living their lives on their own terms—as they have for many years.
And so, I envision this trip as a journey into another world and that appeals to me, of course.
Why I haven’t gone…yet
Very expensive Super expensive. As in $5000-ish. (I’m referring to Papua New Guinea itself—not Western Papua in Indonesia, which is not as costly but certainly not cheap, either.) At least, that’s what I keep reading. The truth is—it’s just out of my price range. And I don’t know of any way to make it cheaper. Volunteering? Teaching?
“It’s complicated.” This is not a place where I could just show up and figure out. It’s just too difficult logistically. From what I’ve read/heard, it’s best to take a tour. And I understand that, but…the price tag makes it impossible for me at this time.
4. Namibia/Uganda
Why I want to go
I know—they’re not near each other, but…I do want to go to both and they happen to be on the same continent, so…why not. I have a thing for deserts and would love to see those gorgeous sand dunes. And in Uganda, I’d love to see the gorillas. Also, one of my favorites students ever, a sweet/smart woman named Susan, is from Uganda. There’s something very special about her that makes me want to meet more people from her country.
Why I haven’t gone yet
Instability: Namibia is OK, but not Uganda. The student I mentioned from Uganda sort of invited me to stay with her family there but also said, “It’s not a good time right now.” I know she’s right. Perhaps I could just go to Namibia? I’m sure I could entertain myself there for a while. Also, it could be somewhat affordable (excluding airfare, of course.)
Logistics: To see both countries, I’d have to cover a lot of ground. I suppose I could fly from one to the other, but that would kill the affordability of the trip. As for an overland crossing, it’s quite far and could be tricky due to the instability of certain areas.
5. USA (Cross Country)
Why I want to go
Although I tend to travel internationally, I do have a thing for my country, which despite its issues is a pretty darn amazing place. Believe it or not, I’ve been to only 15 states. Since I was a teenager, my fantasy has been to take 6 weeks or so and go cross country. I’d like to do the southern route first, then return via the northern route.
Why I haven’t gone…yet
Money: Traveling in the US is extremely expensive–even if you stay in hostels or budget accommodations. (That’s why I tend to take international trips.) Also, the price of gas is high. The money spent on this trip could spiral out of control fast.
Camping: I’m slightly embarrassed to say this, but…I’m a crappy camper. And that, from what I’ve heard, is the one of the best ways to make this trip affordable.
Driving: I’ve never driven more than several hours and I wonder if I could handle driving for an entire day. How tired would I get? Would I get neck/back pain? Or would it be some amazing that I wouldn’t notice? Also, to avoid camping, perhaps I could take a large vehicle that I could also sleep in—eg, an RV. Could I handle that?
If I had a Honda Element, which is geared to car camping, I could pull it off. Perhaps Honda could loan one to me? It could be a win-win situation. 🙂
What are your thoughts…suggestions…experiences?
For those considering first-time travel—Do you have any “fantasy” trips that you want but haven’t taken for one reason or another? If so, what/where and why? What’s getting in your way?
For more experienced travelers—Which of the trips I listed is most appealing to you? If you’ve taken any one of them, which one? Did money or logistics make it challenging? What’s your fantasy trip at the moment? Any obstacles?
If you were in my situation—Which of the trips would you try to take (or perhaps not)? How would you overcome the obstacles I’ve listed? A partial tour (except the US)? Volunteering? Etc.?
PS: I have a job that I enjoy that I’m not looking to leave; I teach ESL at a two-year college (and I’m not sure that a sabbatical is a possibility right now). Fortunately, I have a lot of time off: 3 months in the summer and approximately 3.5 weeks late Dec. into Jan.
Thank You
Thanks for joining me on this vicarious fantasy journey. Perhaps, with your ideas/suggestions, I’ll be able to make one of these trips a reality in the near future!
Bhutan was never on my list, but I just finished reading Beneath Blossom Rain and now it is. It totally made me want to travel to Bhutan. Although expensive, it seems like the expense to travel to such a unique place as well as help preserve the country is totally worth it.
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Hi, Erin. Very interesting…will have to check that out. I hear what you’re saying; if your money is going to the right place/cause–especially preserving a country itself–it could be worth it. I will keep that in mind if I get to a point where it become more of an option. I hope we both get to visit. Thank you!
Indeed the money is going to preserving the country as the government gets a large chunk of the daily tariff. And trust me, it’s totally worth every single penny! Most unbelievable place I’ve ever been!
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Thanks, Aaron. Glad to hear that!
I agree the logistics of Tibet/Nepal/Bhutan as one trip would be almost impossible. (I’ve checked)
I also agree the security situation of Uganda, but especially PNG, would make those destinations if not on an expensive tour.
Namibia is real high on my list.
I’m a little biased, I’ve spent the last ten years doing road trips to try and visit the National Parks of the US, but I think you should try the road trip. There are lots of ways to save money in the US. Camping is one, and it’s not bad if you don’t do it every night. I only camp where hotels are prohibitively expensive (i.e. Yosemite, Yellowstone). Most nights, I can find a Motel 6 for about $10 more a night than a campsite. As far as the driving goes, I listen to books-on-audio when I am on the road. There are tons of good one available (lots of awesome travel ones) and they pass the time well. Looking at your proposed itinerary, you would have to make some all day drives to make it work in your time frame, but those aren’t too bad as long as you don’t bunch too many of them together.
Another way to save money on a road trip is to buy groceries along the way. On my last trip to California, I bought a cooler and kept supplies in it, packing a lunch every morning so I wouldn’t have to buy lunch. I saved a ton of money (and time) doing this.
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Erik–Cool that you’ve come to the same conclusions about some of these trips. Tricky logistics can mean less fun (putting adventurous moments aside). You’re interested in Namibia, too? Nice!
Re: the US…I didn’t realize that Motel 6 could be that cheap. Hmmm. As for camping–well, that would depend on a lot. Agree re: the groceries. I could just view it as any other low-budget trip.
Thanks so much for the info/advice!
Bhutan is probably first on my list. In 2009 I met some Bhutanese Monks in India who insisted that I could enter the country with no problems or restrictions providing I be-friend a head monk and go with him! 🙂
I hope to get there one day, and If I do it will certainly be by this method! 🙂
Hi, Sam. So you’re digging the idea of Bhutan, too, huh? Very cool. I like that idea–becoming friends with a head monk. Very cool. Could add a nice spiritual dimension to the trip.I hope we both get to go there somehow!
It’s true, you can avoid the daily tariff entirely if you’re invited by a Bhutanese national (not just a monk). Work that connection! It’s worth it!
Aaron @ Aaron’s Worldwide Adventures recently posted..Middle East Travel in a Post-9/11 World
Know any nationals or monks? If so, let me/us know! 🙂
These are all fantastic destinations – Tibet & Nepal are high on our list, too – everybody who’s been there keeps telling us how amazing Nepal is.
We took an extended road trip through the East of Canada and the U.S. and found that if you have someone to team up with and look out for deals (Hotwire had 3* hotels in some cities for less than $50 for both of us while hostel dorm beds were $45 for each of us) and cheap food, it’s not as expensive as you might think. I was also concerned about the many hours in the car, but we chose routes with half a day of driving max, which worked out fine.
So what country will be you going to next?
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Hey, girls–cool that you’re interested in Tibet and Nepal, too! I’ve heard the same.
Re: the cross-country trip…that is unreal how expensive the dorm room beds were; I had no idea. Yikes. I tend to take a private room if staying at a hostel anyway, so it would be more than that, I’m sure. The motel/hotel option could work. Even though I prefer to travel solo, I must admit that this trip might make sense with another person for many reasons. Hmmm….
As for where I’m going next–well, that depends on a lot. I would love for it to be one of the trips on the list. That would be amazing. And if so, it could very well be Indonesia. Argentina is also possible, but I’ve considered Romania, as well. Hard to say at this point. How about you?
I’ve been to Nepal. It’s actually very easy to get around there, though going from Kathmandu to Pokhara isn’t so easy, but well worth it. You can fly from one to the other (the best way – the road through those mountains by bus would be a nightmare). Flying over the Himalayas was one of the most beautiful experiences I’ve ever had (and I’ve had many). I went during winter break – end of Dec. through first week of January. It was cold, but not too cold. I wore a lot of layers; the ground was frozen enough to hike around the mountains or go up to one of the base camps.
—————
I’ve also traveled across the US. Camping is definitely the way to go, though you could also rent an RV. There are cheap motels, but they are worse than camping. I’m thinking about doing a road trip up the Northeast coast into Canada this summer. If you plan on going to certain national parks, like Yellowstone, you need reservations these days.
Hi, Patty. You’ve been to Nepal? How awesome!! Some of that sounds tricky and so, the flying makes sense. I can’t imagine the Himalayas; must have been beyond breathtaking!
You’ve done the US cross country? Cool, too. Thanks for the info; good to know. Your trip sounds great. If you go, enjoy!!
PS – I’ve also been to Indonesia. It is an awesome and cheap place. I flew into Jakarta, then took a bus to Bali (not the best idea). Bali is gorgeous, and the prices range from super expensive to cheap, depending on where you stay. You can take a ferry across (or at least you could, then) to the mainland, and then a train up through Indonesia all the way into Malaysia. I traveled all the way up to Thailand that way. The trains are cheap, but rustic. (Of course, this was 20 years ago…) There are beautiful beaches, jungles and ruins all along the way.
Hi, Patty. So cool that you’ve been to Indo. I’ve been considering that trip for a while. 20 years ago? Wow. I wonder how much it’s changed since then. Anyway, if I go, I’ll ask you for some advice. Sounds like you did it low-budget, which is how I’d do it. I have a contact there, by the way, for some volunteer teaching. That would be in Sumatra.
I really want to go to Papua New Guinea too! Let’s go! 🙂 Tibet has also been one of my dream destinations and I’m a little bummed I wasn’t able to combine it with my trip to Nepal, but it’s still on my list!
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Hi, Christy. You want to go to PNG, too? No way. Awesome. I’d go with you. I have a feeling we’d do well together. Can we get a press trip there perhaps? 🙂 Your trip to Nepal looked amazing, by the way. I’ll never forget that amazing photo essay of yours!
Except for the cross country USA road trip, I could have written the same article. Here is to hoping we both check mark some of these amazing places off our list soon.
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Hi, Ted. Cool to hear that we have similar taste. And yes, here’s to hoping that it happens for us! . I’d be thrilled to take even just one of these trips–for sure. Thanks for stopping by!
Well, I just did a cross-country road trip in the U.S., so I can definitely recommend that! However, a road trip isn’t necessarily something I’d ever want to do on my own. Along with having somebody along for company, traveling with my sister meant we could split the cost of everything. Meaning motel rooms usually ended up being just as cost-effective as hostels would have been!
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Hi, Amanda. I really enjoyed following your cross country trip. Very cool stuff you did! Do you think it would be rough on one’s own? I tend to travel solo and I know quite a people in this large country of ours, but…the driving might be too much. Also, you’re one of several people who have brought up the motel room possibility. I suppose sharing might be the best option in this case. Hmmm.
#1 and 2 are most appealing to me but haven’t been to any of the locations. Bhutan is just plain complicated! I have too many fantasy trips to name, but one that always jumps to my mind is the drive up the PCH from southern California to as far north as I can take it!
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Hi, Claire. #1 and #2 look amazing, right? I hear you re: Bhutan. And that $250/night price–ouch.
PS: I have always wanted to do the PCH drive in California! I think that state is so gorgeous anyway and that coast is lovely. I had the chance about 15 years ago, but didn’t go for it. It’s one of the few things I regret. Perhaps at some point…. 🙂
Bhutan isn’t nearly as complicated as people think it is. Just expensive. But TOTALLY worth it.
Oh, and Lisa, what you’ve heard about weather is true. Spring is the absolute best time to visit as summer is the rainy season and winter is way too cold.
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Must be amazing if you’re using all caps–cool! 🙂 Re: the weather…how about May 20th to June 20th? How would that work? Has the rain started yet? Thanks, by the way; you are now the Bhutan expert as far as I’m concerned! 🙂
Bhutan is on my list too – just don’t like how long it takes to get there & the fact that I need 30 days to do the trek on my wish list. It will have to wait.
Highly recommend Namibia & Uganda. Rented a car in Namibia years ago & toured around for almost 3 weeks – one of our best ever trips. Visited Uganda last year – didn’t see a lot because I was there on behalf of a charitable foundation but found the people to be absolutely charming.
Iceland is high on my list right now – as is a bike ride through eastern Europe.
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Hi, Leigh. Just noticed your comment (went to spam for some odd reason). Anyway, cool that you have your eye on Bhutan, too! I love the idea of that kind of time, too. You’ve been to both Namibia and Uganda? How awesome is that! Nice to know how you did it, too. Never even considered a rental car. Glad you enjoyed both places.
I’ve been it Iceland, by the way. I went a long time ago–just for day as part of a layover. Spent a few hours in the Blue Lagoon. Very cool place! Your bike ride idea sounds great!
Great post! I have done the USA Cross Country drive before. LA to New York and back. It was pretty cool!
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Hi, Cal. Welcome to the Bus! Glad you enjoyed the post. You’ve done it, huh? Awesome. How long of a trip was it? Did you camp? How did you keep it affordable?
It was a rushed trip, which is one reason why I would love to do it again.
I did it on a super shoe string budget. Pretty much sleeping in my car at Rest Areas along the way.
I went for New Years Even in Times Square when it turned 2000. So it was obviously winter time.
I managed to get stuck in a snow storm in Oklahoma on the way back. Lived off vending machines and fast food for about a month.
Fun Times!
I’ve also done the drive from California to Alaska too. That was amazing.
Another good one to put on your list.
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You sound very adventurous, Cal–and resourceful. Vending machines, sleeping in the car? Wild. California to Alaska, too? Very cool!
I rode my 1980 Vespa P200 across the US back in 2006…it’s kinda why I started blogging in the first place. I highly recommend a trip around the US. My sister and a friend of ours from the UK just did a 5 week trip around the US and it wasn’t enough time! Too much to see and do.
There are inexpensive ways to travel around the US. My British friend is a huge fan of Motel 6 as well and they ended up staying there most nights. They also stayed with friends in Chicago and Boston, two very expensive cities.
If you are ever looking for a travel buddy, I’m always up for an adventure! (And I know people in pretty much every state in the Union….well, almost!) Or if you need suggestions on places to travel in the US, I can totally help you with that too.
I actually have a really cool idea for cheap travel on the East Coast/Midwest area. If you are interested, send me an email.
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Hi, RP. Nice to meet you–thanks for your visit! Sounds like your trip was great–and that it worked well with the motels, friends, etc. Good way to make if affordable.
Thanks for the travel buddy offer–will keep it in mind–and thanks for the info/advice, etc. Appreciate it! If I need info, I’ll definitely drop you a line.
Great post! I think we all must have a list like this of places we want to visit that we haven’t yet for one reason or another. The only one I share with you is the cross-country US trip–and for mostly the same reasons. It’s kind of the American travel dream–a road trip around the US–but I have a hard time driving 4 hours in one day without being exhausted. It would take me forever to get across the country! 🙂
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Howdy, Gray. I agree re: people having this type of list. I find it interesting, too, why people don’t make it to those certain destinations. Re: cross country–yes, the “American travel dream.” Love that!
But the driving thing….sounds like we have the same tolerance level. I can’t imagine 7, 8 or 9 hours. Having said this, I’ve driven for several hours in the Southwest and found it to be much easier there, especially in those flat/wide-open spaces.
I hope we both get to take this trip somehow! Hello, Holiday Inn and Avis Rental Car….any press trips out there? 🙂
These all look great! I think #1 and #5 would be tops on my list.
Hola, Stephanie. #1 and #5? Very nice–cool that you’d do them, too! 🙂
With some planning you could do your cross country trip via Greyhound and/or Amtrak
Throw out a call for couches on the site and have your readers help w/accommodations, pick-ups and drop offs.
That said, be VERY CAREFUL when booking Greyhound tickets – pay attention to the carrier listed for the route. Greyhound partners with crappy bus lines like Americanos (used 4x in Sept. Austin-Dallas = no wifi and literally falling apart, think vandalized look here). However, it’s a 3.5 hrs ride at $60 rnd trp vs. SW or AA 45 minute flight priced at $300+ rnd trp. :-/
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Hi, Maria. Good point re: the buses and especially couches. Perhaps I could use couch surfing itself! For some reason, it seems like the thing to do outside this country, but why not within it? Hmmm.
Re: Greyhound–thanks for that information. Also, it’s sort of sketchy anyway, I think. I took one of their buses in California once. It was full of lots of characters, let’s say. Bordered on unpleasant. Was happy to arrive. Having said this, it did serve its purpose and the price was fair.
Looks like your list and mine have some in sync– want to do a cross country trip too and visit Indonesia for sure! Hope your dreams come true in 2012
Really, Charu? That’s so cool. I hope we both get to do both! Thank you…
So glad I stumbled on your blog. This post spoke right to me as Bhutan, Namibia and Indonesia are also the places I would like to travel to most. Two years ago, I was on safari in South Africa, and heard many times from the rangers and guides that Sossusvlei is one of the most spectacular deserts in the world. Wishing you safe travels during the upcoming year!
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Hi, Maria. Glad you did, too! (Like your blog, by the way.) Awesome that you’ve got some of the same countries on your list. As for Sossusvlei, that sounds amazing!
PS: I went to S Africa a while back and loved it. Nothing quite like a safari. I consider it one of life’s peak experiences!
I would actually like to go back to Namibia so that I can see the desert. I was actually there but didn’t get a chance to go desert. Sigh…It’s a country with a very interesting landscape. Combine it with a trip to South Africa if you have not been there.
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Hi, Terri. You went to Namibia? Shame re: missing the desert. Hopefully, you’ll do it next time. Great idea for a combo trip, by the way. I’ve been to S Africa, but I’d love to go back!
Hey, I’ve spent time in Bhutan (several months). August can be quite pleasant, actually. Very green and misty. Not the best for viewing the peaks, though. I also have serious asthma – I was fine, I just took it easy on hikes but I never did overnight trekking because I am not comfortable being a day’s walk from medical help if I need it.
As for the cost… well, you just have to be really motivated to save your money to go there. It is worth it. Also, about $70/day of that fee goes to fund Bhutan’s free education and health care. The rest covers your actual expenses.
You can fly in from Nepal to Bhutan but there is no way to go into Tibet from there, you are right.
Anyway, I have blogged a lot about Bhutan, if you are interested: http://www.greentea.tk/search/label/Bhutan
Hi, Andrea. You’ve been there? Awesome. And thanks so much for the information re: the weather and asthma. I wonder how June would be–maybe a little better? Re: the cost–it does sound like it’s worth it in the long run. Good to know about Nepal, too. Thanks again!
My good friend went to Papua New Guinea as part of a mission trip with her parents. They met each other (both from the Midwest) there while on their own mission trips. Not sure if that would be your thing, but it makes it much less expensive.
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Thanks for sharing that, Erin. I’m more of a spiritual type, but that’s good to know for other people who might want to combine the trip with a mission, etc.
This is a good list. I had a chance to go to Bali last November with friends. It’s on our (Roland and I) list and if I went without him, he’d be semi jealous, and I’d spend 50% of the time thinking, “aaaah that’s lovely. I wish Roland could see this, ” so I didn’t go. 🙂
The most appealing out of the ones you listed would be Tibet. Simply because I have a strong interest in Tibetan Buddhism. It’s just one of many places on my list of places to go.
I love a road trip, but I’ve done the cross country a couples times with family when I was younger (RT from California to Virginia where my mother is from) so not so much interested in a cross country road trip, but a regional one I’m always open up for. Thinking of driving from San Diego to Santa Fe in November this year, if I can fit it in.
My fantasy trip is to the Maldives or the Seychelles. Money is the issue, I can’t swing it, it’s damn crazy expensive.
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Hi, Terri. Shame re: Bali, but I can see how you might have missed sharing certain things with Roland (your husband?) there. You’re also interested in Tibet? Very cool. And awesome that you did CA to VA–very nice. Actually, I think I like your idea of a regional trip. It sounds more manageable to me!
Too bad some of the places on my list–and the two that you mentioned–are so expensive! Let’s hope them come together for both of us somehow…
Yes, Roland is my husband. I’m making an effort to stop saying, “my husband” as he is his own person and more than “my husband” which has a ring of possessiveness to it. IDK. That’s just my deal. LOL
I’m going to cross my fingers for both of us to reach out dream destinations. 🙂
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Hi, again. I like/respect that you don’t say “my husband” and get your reasons for not doing so. Very cool!
Yes, let’s keep our fingers crossed re: this trip possibilities!
I think there is fair number of people with the same list. A friend of mine is always trying to convince me to go to Uganda with him and would love to. Africa I’d love to tackle one day. I’ve always been enchanted by the music but not too knowledgeable about the individual countries. Meanwhile the States are wicked to travel through being close to the Montana and Idaho border I’m a stone’s throw to some of the most amazingly scenic places on the planet. While everyone wants to come to Canada I’m always heading the other.
I would certainly recommend Nepal. I thought I was late in getting there 20 years ago…. the speople are super the energy is palpable and it spoiled me
and the bar has been set very high ever since. Certainly a life defining trip for me. Maybe I need another one?
Hi, Neal. Africa does sound cool, doesn’t it? Imagine listening to the music–live–and/or playing along! That would be especially awesome in West Africa. I used to want to do that until I hurt my wrist.
I forgot that you went to Nepal–that’s so awesome! I could see how the bar would be raised by that type of trip–totally. And yes, it sounds like you need another one of those life-defining trips. Perhaps it’s time! 🙂
Oh and another thing don’t forget a bicycle as I know you ride. It’s a great way to stop and enjoy the scenic impact of the States and get some exercise if you be afraid of bears and cougars. Yikes!
Good idea re: the bike. And eek to the bears and cougars. I’ve seen some bears in NJ over the past couple of years for the first time in my life. Scared the hell out of me! I know they’re not such a big deal, but when you haven’t grown up seeing them, they can be a bit startling. 🙂
You and I must be on the same page. I’m also doing the same thing right now. There are too many places to choose from!!! Why don’t you and I go to Nigeria? How fun would that be? Although the thought of eating a big snail makes me sick. Africa is really the coolest at its cool points and bad at its worst. Indonesia is also a rough place, but it’s beautiful. Great places and I like your number 1 choice the best.
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Hey–hi–and very cool! Nigeria? Hmmm. You never know. Is it stable right now? Could be really cool. Let’s chat! I do agree re: Africa’s extremes–and that’s probably what makes it appealing on some level. Have you been to Indonesia? Looks intense, too. I must get there over the next couple of years.
You know you don’t have to drive across America… we have this thing called a train. I’ve driven it a couple of times, flown a gazillion times and taken the train a couple of times and I’d highly recommend the train. You can get a 30 day pass on Amtrak and go wherever you want. I met Jewel (the singer) on the train from Seattle to Chicago once. It’s definitely an experience in itself and you meet a lot of people. I’ve ridden trains all over the world and the Amtrak experience isn’t like any of those. People congregate, play cards, chat about everything etc… You can match your itinerary very close with the train and you don’t have to pay for accommodations. I won’t gaurantee a good nights sleep though without a sleeper which costs more. I would recommend though to go to Vancouver BC and take their train across Canada then come back across on Amtrak. Definitely worth the effort.
Hi, Grant. Oh yeah–trains! 🙂 Not a bad idea. The only problem with Amtrak sometimes is that it’s not convenient in terms of where it’s stations are located. Still, that could be very interesting–especially with a sleeper train option. Perhaps the idea setup would be a combo of the train and some rental cars which would allow for drop-off in certain places. Hmmm. I must admit I do enjoy the social aspects of being on trains. I’ve loved traveling that way in other countries!
Cool that you met Jewel–must have been a fun time. Thanks for the ideas!
A couple of Amtrak trains track your itinerary pretty close. Your northern route can’t be duplicated in it’s entirety because there’s no train in through South Dakota/Wyoming anymore but the Empire Builder goes through Seattle, Spokane, Glacier Park then across to Minneapolis. Te Portland to Salt Lake train is no longer but a group of people are lobbying to bring it back. A lot of your eastern itinerary can be mapped to Amtrak routes but they have a tendency to go north and south in the eastern US. The California Zephyr (Chicago to LA) , Empire Builder (Seattle/Portland to Chicago) and the Coast Starlight (Seattle to LA) are all iconic double decker Amtrak trains. Sleeping quarters are downstairs and coach seats upstairs. The Coast Starlight has a theater only for 1st class. I’ve never seen it but I’d like to. I love the observation cars and spend the majority of my time there reading, socializing and just staring out the window. Passes are available in three travel durations and travel segments (15 days/8 segments, 30 days/12 segments and 45 days/18 segments) throughout the entire United States.
Jewel and about 5 other people (myself included) were in the dining car after hours when the rest of the train was asleep and she played the guitar and sang. This was before she became a mega star…
I personally recommend Amtrak. In one week of traveling you’ll have enough blogging material to fill a book. I honestly considered doing the Seattle to Portland Cascades train once a week for no other reason then to blog it. Amtrak is not the same thing as European trains and isn’t what it could be but for a writer it’s wonderful.
Hi, again, Grant. Awesome that you know so much about Amtrak–very cool as the information is very useful. I didn’t know about the durations/segments; good to know. I will keep it in mind. I actually took the Seattle to Portland route several years ago; unfortunately, it was during “rainy season.” Still, I enjoyed it in some way.
I agree re: Amtrak not being like the European trains and that’s a shame. Still, I’m glad we have it. I wonder if they’d let me ride for free or for a serious discount if I blogged about it. Hmmm…I’m getting ideas now. 🙂
Thanks, again!
I think I should qualify my statement that Amtrak is not like European trains. This is both good and bad but I think it’s a distinction worth making. In Seattle we have the Cascades train which is a Spanish designed tilting high speed train (unfortunately on freight train tracks with diesel locomotives but I digress). It’s a single level train with a bistro car and not much else very much in the same style as the TGV or ICE trains in Europe. This is not a bad thing as corridor train. You could group the Accela in the same category.
This is not the traditional Amtrak style trains which I really really hope don’t go away. I think the Canadian VIA rail has preserved the 1930s train experience the best with observation cars, dining cars, wonderful vistas etc… It’s designed to be a vacation in itself, NOT a mode of transportation. Amtrak is somewhere between transportation and vacation. It’s not as fancy as VIA but not as expensive either. I can’t stress enough that riding Amtrak is not an experience you will get anywhere else. Maybe the Trans-siberian, I don’t know….
With the rail pass you average about $50 per segment. Seattle to Chicago is ONE segment. Let’s pause to think about that. You’re going 2000 miles for $50 and you get to meet a lot of people, see tons of scenery and have plenty of time to read a book or two – for $50. Now I’d probably recommend spending equal to the price of the rail pass in sleeper cars where necessary though so in the end you’ll spend about $100 per day but that’s accommodations and transportation included.
There’s a time and a place for everything and I love the TGV but I don’t want that style to kill off the restful lumbering double decker Amtrak trains with sleeper cars and full dining facilities. I really like that experience and I recommend it.
Interesting info, Grant. You really know a lot about these trains–and I appreciate that you’ve taken the time to share it! So Amtrak is somewhere between transportation and a vacation? Hmmm. I like the way the pricing on the rail pass sounds–better than I realized. I also like the idea of viewing the scenery and reading, etc. It sounds like a great way to go.
I’m going to think about all of this (the cross-country trip vs the other options) over the next few months and then decide what I’m doing. I’m quite sure I’d like to take a very long trip next summer. I often travel for 5 or 6 weeks. Next time, I’d like it to be 2 or 3 months if possible. I do know a lot of people in this country, so I would have some places I could stay along the way. That would especially true in the West.
Anyway, thanks again!
I’ve already taken a couple of my dream trips through Asia. It was an amazing trip that I will always be thankful for taking. So I think I’m done with that area of the world for a few years. My next big trip I want to take is through Peru. I haven’t had a chance yet, but I’m hoping next year will be the year to do it. I guess time will tell.
Hi, Steve. You’ve been through Asia? That is wonderful!
I’ve been to Peru. Awesome place! I was there about 15 years ago and flew over the Nazca lines and did the Inca Trail hike, etc. It was amazing watching the sun rise over Machu Picchu.
Let’ hope we both get to do the trips of our dreams in 2012!
Bhutan is up there for me, however I am now outside of the range of “student discount” and we are fastly approaching the rate increase of 2012.
I would be more open to spending $500 for a visa and paying for it on my own than the normal rate. Next year it’ll be $250/night plus something like $40 for a single supplement or $30 per person if 2 people in the group as a supplement.
Do not like! But I love this post! Good luck on getting to the goals of the destinations soon!
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Hi, Jeremy. Cool that you’ve got Bhutan on your list, too! I hear you re: “do not like” on that price. Ouch. $250 plus $40ish for a single supplement? That’s mucho. Well, I guess we’ll all see what the options and hopefully, find a way. Thank you for the visit!
i wanna go to all the places that you mentioned especially bhutan 🙂 im going to indonesia next month yey!!! you should visit the philippines too 🙂
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Hi there, Fllip. So cool that you want to go to the same places. Awesome! you’re going to Indonesia? Wow. Can’t wait to read about it! I am interested in the Philippines–definitely. Is it easy to get off the beaten path? I sometimes think it would be hard to. Perhaps I’m wrong. I was wrong about Panama in that respect, after all.
Lisa, these are a great list of places to eventually visit. I’ve been to Indonesia but only scratched the surface. It’s definitely a country I want to re-visit again in the future and explore more in-depth.
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Hi, Samuel. Glad you like the list! You’ve been to Indonesia? Nice. I can see how it’s easy to just see some. Many people add it on to a Southeast Asia trip or just do Bali. I hope to go to Sumatra, too, and maybe elsewhere. Hope I get to go and that you get to go back! Thank you!
I love travelling solo but having someone along with you would make the domestic tour more affordable, right? It’s funny, but I think the USA is so cheap to travel in. (But I’m British and live in Asia, so it is that way to me.)
I agree–traveling with someone else could make this affordable. I am thinking, though, that I would combine Amtrak and couch surfing, etc. to make it happen. Also, I have some friends in different states. I think that I could stay with them, too.
You’re lucky that it’s cheap to travel here for you!
Why not travel x the US with a small group of friends who are experienced campers? $25 per night split between, say, 3 people -a very affordable way to travel. To me a trip to the Himalayas is a must…don’t worry about the logistics-be zen about it:)
Indonesia (Bali!) is spectacular and food is just incredible. I would certainly stay away from Uganda, Kenya and Somali…
Hi, Charu. That’s a possibility. I’d have to choose carefully, though, because I’m so used to solo travel. With others, it could get tricky. That price tag is very appealing, though. I wonder if Honda would rent me an Element to travel in? I could tweet about the trip of course, so it would be win-win. 🙂
You’ve been to Bali? Awesome! As for the African countries you mentions, unfortunately, it probably is best to avoid them for now. 🙁
Well, I’ve just read this post for the 2nd time (this time I read the comments too, which I didn’t have time to do before!). I know Uganda has been unstable for a while, but I didn’t realize that it was especially so at the moment, otherwise that would be top of my list – for the gorillas too. I am aching to see them in the wild.
Re: Indonesia, my friend, Maria, has traveled there twice in the last couple of years and adores it. She’s traveled widely in Asia, so that’s saying something, and not just for Bali, either. She traveled solo a lot of the time, and never felt unsafe in any way.
Re: Namibia – you could combine it with other West African countries. I know a lot are in turmoil at the moment, but I am hoping to go to Senegal and Gambia before too long, and also Mali (though cautiously there).
I’ve been making notes from the comments you’ve received! A US road trip has been a dream of mine since I was in my teens (a looong time!), but I was torn between road and train! When I was traveling with my kids when they were young we used Days Inn. I have no idea whether they are still as cheap as they used to be?
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It’s a shame that Uganda is unstable–would be amazing to see the gorillas. Perhaps in a few years. Glad to hear that your friend had a good experience in Indonesia. Coo! If I go, I may do some volunteer teaching in Sumatra, which I think would be a great experience, and then go to Bali to chill. We’ll see what happens.
Re: the US road trip idea…awesome that you’ve had that dream, too! Great comments in this post, right? People really shared a lot. I don’t think the Days Inn is as inexpensive as it was. Now, of course, there’s the Motel 6 (or 8?). Not too bad.
Here’s to a great 2012 and both of us taking cool trips somewhere on our respective lists! 🙂
That’s what Maria did, although unintentionally! She just met this guy one day who turned out to be a teacher (he struck up a conversation to improve his English!) and she ended up teaching in his school for a while. She says it was one of the best experiences of her life, and they are still very much in touch. I helped her sift through some letters the entire class had written to her. Very rewarding – but no need to tell you that!
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That is so cool. Love stories like that! I would imagine some very sweet/heart-warming things were said in those letters. The woman I’ve been in contact with, Eti, I met through someone on Twitter. She and I are now Facebook friends and she keeps saying, “When are you coming? I hope we see you…” From what I know, she’s in a very rural area a few hours from Padang in Sumatra. I think it could be a really cool experience. Perhaps it will happen!
I love the idea for this post (and may steal it, if that’s okay)!
If you ever want a companion for the road trip, I’m your girl. I routinely drive 12-14 hours a day without issues, and I have a lot of experience with cross-country trips. One of the keys is couchsurfing, or sleeping in the car. It helps keep costs low.
Hi, Kelsey. No prob–go for it! Jeremy from Living the Dream also “borrowed” the idea. I’m totally cool with it!
PS: You’re tempting me with your offer! I can’t drive more than a few hours without losing my mind. I could entertain you with stories re: my life and traveling for hours and hours, of course. I’m an extrovert. Are you an introvert by any chance? 🙂 We’d need the right vehicle, I think. I just checked on the Honda Element (had fantasized about asking for sponsorship). Turns out they’re discontinuing it. 🙁 Still, some other type of car could work, I suppose.
I think Indonesia would be really cool! Since I haven’t been many places, everywhere is calling my name. Some of the top places on my list are Atlanta&California, Peru, Brazil, Cambodia, and Ghana. Hopefully I’ll get to some of those places soon!
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Hi, Sky. I like your list. Looks great! Especially Cambodia and Ghana….I’m sure they’ll make for incredible trips. I see you’re going to Panama? That’s awesome. I was there last summer. Enjoy!
Hi Lisa,
I totally get your list. I’d love to do the great American road trip, and Bhutan is on my bucket list too. Indonesia is awesome, I’ve been what 6 times now? It’s got so much to see and dirt cheap outside Bali. Except West Papua, which is actually very expensive. I would love to go to Namibia, and I think Uganda isn’t so bad for security these days. I mean it’s not like the Idi Amin days.
As much as I’d like to go to Tibet the whole permit system seems too much hassle for me. So I’m off in September to western Sichuan and Yunnan which is still ethnically Tibetan, and has spectacular scenery to boot. You’re welcome to join me/us but I know how you feel about camping…. LOL.
feel free to quiz me about Indonesia, I’ve covered a fair amount of ground there, including off the tourist trail.
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Naomi–So cool we’ve got similar taste! I’ve heard that Indo is cheap (except West Papua) and think it looks incredible. You’ve been there 6 times? Wow. I guess it’s sort of close, right? Anyway, I’m glad to know that you have some much experience with Indo. I will definitely hit you up with some questions if/when the time comes. Thank you!
Meanwhile…your September trip sounds great. Thanks for the invite! And believe me, if I could, I’d consider it. But I’ll be back to work (teaching) then. I’m only off in June, July and August.
Thanks for all–and I look forward to learning more re: Indo if I end up going.
those months are perfect for Indonesia (dry season). Might be peak season everywhere else but so much of Indo is off the tourist radar with most people only visiting east Java, Bali and Lombok. Go on, start planning now 😉
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I am so glad that it’s dry season there! I’ve been to a bunch of countries during rainy season and it’s worked out OK mostly. I just don’t think I’d want to deal with it in Indonesia somehow.
I think I’d focus on Sumatra and Bali, but for the latter, I’d have to do my best to get away from the real tourist traps.
I would also like to see Borobudur (Central Java?)…looks cool!
Bhutan is on my radar too, and thinking I could add it to a trip for this time next year….hopefully!
I have a friend currently living and working in PNG, so I think that is the way for me to get there, on a visit and experience the world she is living in right now….I think it might be my only real opportunity to get there!
Good luck with work on your list – love wanderlust lists!
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Hi, Tash. Bhutan for you, too? Nice! I hope you make it there this year–that would be fantastic! I don’t know when I’ll get to do it. I’m a teacher, off in the summer (and the winter, but just for 1 month). I’d want to be sure I’m not there during rainy season. A little rain and mist would be nice, but not too much.
You are SO lucky to have a friend over in PNG. Wow! If you can pull that off, go for it. I think it would be ideal!
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I’m definitely going to do the USA cross-country one day, preferably in a red convertible. I’d love to go to Tibet, too, someday – but that one would take a little bit more planning. The appeal for me of the US trip would be to make no plans – just see where the road takes me (provided I do actually make it across the country, of course!).
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Hi, Si. Cross-country looks like fun, doesn’t it? A red convertible…ooh! 🙂 I’d love to go to Tibet, but you’re right–that’s a different kind of trip, for sure. Happy travels to you the rest of this year and in 2013!
I would love to see Nepal too, and do a cross country drive of the USA (I have done Canada and loved it). Another top to-do for me is Egypt!
You’ve driven across Canada? Very cool!
I’ve been to all those places apart from the USA cross country (which would be an epic trip!) and they all lived up to the fantasy – with the exception of Bali in Indonesia! It doesn’t matter where on your list they are, you will get to them eventually!
My ultimate fantasy trip is an expedition across Antarctica. The ultimate bucket list item! The logistics and cost are stopping me at the moment, but only because I am concentrating on my other ambitions of travelling through every country on the planet! Almost there! Once that is done, Antarctica baby!
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Hi, Mike. I went to Indonesia last summer and loved it–except for Bali. Way too many tourists. I did, however, like Amed. After I left, I went to Gili Meno, one of the tiny islands near Lombok. For me, that was the real paradise!
Antarctica sound great!
Strewth! I can’t believe Australia’s not on that list?! I know despite having plenty of beaten tracks, we don’t have a lot of places off the beaten track anymore, and out indigenous culture has been greatly damaged. And where it is well preserved can be nigh impossible for a white fella to get into.
But there’s still a lot of weird shit down here to see.
Strewth? What dat mean? LOL
Australia is one my ‘secret list’… I want to see that weird shit–definitely. If I come visit, maybe we can work on my blog in person? 🙂
Well, my #1 fantasy trip is Namibia. I hope I will add it to my trip list next year!
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Nice! I think Namibia will amazing!
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