June 19, 2004

The backpacker cycle

Everytown, Everywhere

It happens every time. You land in town and don't know which bus station you are at. You shrug off rapacious taxi drivers and start walking down the street, not knowing which direction you're going. All the street signs have disappeared and no-one knows where your hostel is.

Two days later: you know where to buy your water and where to do your laundry. You've sussed out three cafes and a great market for cheap meals. You know which buses go where and how to pay the fare. You know everything there is to know about this town. You're the king.

You see someone walking down the street with full backpack, looking around a little unsure and you look on with sympathy for their naivety. Then you get on a bus and go to the next town and it starts all over again.

Posted by David at June 19, 2004 07:51 PM