Traveling with Steph

Traveling (backpacking) with Steph is eye-opening, and not entirely smooth, mostly due to my own shortcomings regarding the ‘ideal’ relationship. Ideally, I’ve always believed that two people in a relationship should share all responsibilities equally, regardless of who is the man and who is the woman. And, when traveling with backpacks by train, and sometimes covering large distances in a short time, experience is of the essence. Stephanie? She loves the thrill of me doing it all, or at least that’s what I think she’s thinking.

A key ingredient to successful international travel (I believe any seasoned veteran of international experience would agree) is effective and efficient communication with the locals. Knowing when to ask questions, like when you’re lost, is of course helpful. Having knowledge of a second language? Extremely helpful. And, it’s just as important to have confidence not to be afraid to approach someone on the spot. A smile and a greeting in their native language always goes a long way, even if those are the only words you know.

In Steph’s defense, it’s no easy task simply ‘gaining’ experience quickly in areas where you originally had none or very little. If one hasn’t traveled the world, for example, it’s tough to know what to do ‘naturally’ to make the trip go more smoothly. That’s all experience really gives you when traveling.

Seems simple enough, right? I’m thinking Steph may not agree with me.

Of course, after all, I’m only a man, so who really knows what these ladies are thinking. I know I sure don’t most of the time.

Keep the faith.