I had a request for a picture of me carrying my load! Someone was curious about how I can carry two packs at once. So I took this picture after I packed up my gear for my flight in less than 12 hours. This is actually a common load for a “European style backpacker,” and actually distributes the weight better than if it were all in one on the back.
In the USA, the word backpacker brings to mind mountain trails, white blazes, and maybe even Boy Scouts. But to the rest of the civilized world, the word backpacker is used to describe budget travelers- usually college age people, but not always- who frequent the dorms in youth hostels for lodging, carry their belongings in 1 or 2 backpacks…like my load here, and roam the globe in search of adventure and the opportunity to expand their understanding of the world and people around them.
Many are women. Many travel by themselves. I’ve met LOTS of them during my wanderings, and have never had a bad experience. I’ve seriously met some really cool, interesting people during my travels, and when adventure vacationing, wouldn’t trade the experience for all of the 5-Stars out there. (I don’t have anything against 5-Star hotels…If I’m going to a business conference or a ministry conference- or just want to stay in one. But there’s just something special about traveling this way.)
I can see some of you shaking your head right now…and can even hear that, “Dear God, what are we going to do with Sandi?” come out of your mouth! I can’t help it…I’m just not “wired” like some of you! To ME this is normal! I bet Jesus would stay at a youth hostel…and hang out with all the cool people there… Hmmm maybe like he hung out with the publicans and sinners? ;D
Okay, enough of my soap box… Hasta luego!
Well ya look great, Sandi! It’s very inspiring to be able to “follow along” from afar! Thanks for sharing your experience. I’m with you in prayer! Happy travels to Ecuador… until next time…!
Natalie
Hi Sandi! It is so wonderful to be sharing your adventure with you. Sounds like you’re having a wonderful time! The pictures are great and I’m looking forward to more news from afar.
Love and Prayers
Sabrina
That is fascinating! I didn’t realize people spread the load they had to carry like that. I bet you get some very interesting conversations with people in hostel’s etc, It would be awesome if you posted some of those interesting conversations. I agree too that Jesus would most likely done the same.