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
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
Lake Toba, Sumatra, 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
Sand dunes of Namibia
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!