These days, it is easy to think that just by following someone’s Instagram page, you can live vicariously through them while living our “normal” lives; working 9-5 with steady paychecks, mortgage payments and all things that involve life as we know it. Well, think again! Be that person on Instagram that other envy, see places with your eyes that pictures cannot do justice and meet people from all over the world… TRAVEL!
The common age of travelers I have encountered and met along the way, was typically around 24. Being 27 myself, it had me thinking, am I too old to continue traveling the world, going new places, or even putting myself in situations I am not use to, to experience life the way I intended? Then I met Gina… who changed my entire perspective.
Gina, is a 57 year old woman who had her sights set on not just traveling, but figuring out all the details about this sport called surfing. So not only did she book a retreat at Chica Brava for just one week, but she booked 6 weeks in a row and man, was it fun! She taught me “We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.” Now, Gina is almost retired and wondering where to go next.
I consider myself the lucky one, as I was given this wisdom at such a young age. Then, I couldn’t help but think about what would of helped her, and other women around her age, catch the traveling bug a bit sooner?
To travel is to live. No matter what age, physical level or situation…adventure is for everyone; with some prep work of course!
1. Do your research!
Not sure of where to go, what to do or where to begin… Research it! The internet is now, literally, in the palm of your hand with most iPhones and smartphones. Buy tickets now for places you know you want to visit or see. For most adventurers, this is the most fun part. So enjoy it!
2. Check-in with your doctor and insurance carrier
Double check and make sure that you have all of the proper vaccinations and that you have renewed all essential prescriptions. Also, ask you medical insurance provider if your policy applies overseas for emergencies. If not, it is highly recommended to look into travelers insurance.
3. Volunteer (Camp Bella)!
Get involved wherever you go! Each year, here in San Juan del Sur, we host a charitable surf-empowerment program for underprivileged young women in Nicaragua. Help us make a difference in these young women’s lives and support us as we host Camp Bella 2016! Check out this link to find out how you can get involved today! https://chicabrava.com/category/staff-appreciation-volunteer/
4. Get guidebooks
Guidebooks usually include maps, key words or phrases, and give you enough detail on certain sites that you won’t need to purchase the pamphlet once arrived to the location or even download apps before you travel. A good app I use is Maps.me where you do not need internet to see a large scale map around your current location. Check it out here!
5. Money/Currency $$
Look up the monetary conversion before you go. Make sure you do your math before you travel to get a sense of where the conversion rate is. As well as alert your bank that you will be traveling, so they do not cancel your cards while overseas. And make sure you check your expiration date to ensure it does not expire through your travel dates.
6. Bring snacks
Traveling abroad is fun, but eating in a foreign country can sometimes become a task. Bring small snacks that will hold you over until you find a recommended restaurant or cultural food cart.
7. Prepare for the worst, but wish for the best
Have copies of all documents in multiple places (medical information, passports, driver’s license, etc.). Store secret cash that you would use only for emergencies. Keep copies of important phone numbers/emails of loved one’s for contact.
8. Spend the Extra Money on Staying Safe
A bit sketched out about taking a taxi at 2AM from a city you do not know anything about, use the extra bit of money to ensure your safety by booking the majority on your trip with reputable companies. Back to #1, do your research!
9. Book your next trip to Chica Brava!
Traveling to an all-girls camp is ideal for women traveling alone because they’ll all instantly have something in common: they’re women traveling alone. We welcome adventurous women who want to travel on their own without having to worry about safety can feel secure in traveling to Chica Brava. We are a girls-only surf and yoga retreat is perfect for women who need a break from the mundane monotony of everyday life but who don’t have a travel companion to accompany them. From the moment we greet you at the airport in Nicaragua until we send you off in style, our lively staff is committed to making sure that your journey is both amazing and unforgettable! The CHICABRAVA team, glassy waves and the majesty of Nicaragua awaits you!
Check us out at https://chicabrava.com
Annaleigh Jaildagian
Camp Operations Manager