Lessons Learned

Here are a few lessons I've learned while on the road.  Some of these came from a surf magazine I came across in Indonesia and that I've found to hold true so far:

1.) Smile - It's the first word in any language. 

2.) Say Yes - to everything (well, almost everything) and just watch what happens next.

3.) Be Patient - There's no reason not to be.  Find a way to enjoy where you are.

4.) Don't Panic - Rule #1 from "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy," and perhaps the most important travel advice of all time.

5.) Show Respect - Don't just BE respectful, show respect.

6.) Be Helpful - Karma works faster than travel insurance.

7.) Taste Everything - You don't have to like it, but you do have to try it.

8.) Share - You're actually better off just giving things away.  The results are often surprising.

9.) Learn - Tourists observe.  Travelers participate.

10.) Slow Down - Do less and you'll experience more.  Traveling is not a contest.  (This is easier said than done).

11.) Pack Light - You need to travel.  Your stuff doesn't.  (Possibly one of the best decisions I've made thus far.  You should see the people with massive backpacks on both their fronts and backs...what a joke!)

12.) Go Solo - A few days or weeks, everyone could benefit from a little time to themselves in a foreign environment.  (I've met the most people so far when traveling alone.)

13.) Always, Always, Always - Carry toilet paper.