Comments on: My (Non-Existent) South American Itinerary (and My Anxiety)

By: Ingrid L

Ingrid L — Wed, 13 Feb 2019 16:48:27 +0000

In reply to Bryony.

I love this comment. It’s just like any platform – you’re looking at everyone’s highlight reel. Nobody likes to include the negative in their lives, but it’s a reality for everyone.

By: Ingrid L

Ingrid L — Wed, 13 Feb 2019 16:47:09 +0000

As someone who is pretty guilty of not being able to say no, this article resonated pretty strongly with me. In the past I was very “itinerary” oriented.. Now, I’ve been learning to fly by the seat of my pants a bit more and just let things happen. It’s scary, but if you aren’t just outside of your comfort zone, you aren’t growing! Just have to make sure that you don’t get pushed into your risk zone and, if you do, that you get out of that zone sooner rather than later before damage is done. It’s hard to go from being incredibly busy to learning how to relax – I find that I end up feeling “lazy”, but I know that isn’t the case! I’ve been trying to embrace it as of late. Glad to see I am not alone on this one!

By: Danny

Danny — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 16:14:48 +0000

Great blog post, Matt. I can really relate with a WHOLE lot of what you’re saying!

By: Bryony

Bryony — Mon, 06 Mar 2017 23:56:31 +0000

The reason I love this post is because it’s human. I find a lot of the time travel bloggers try to glamourise things I do it myself. I read articles everyday because it’s simply my favourite thing to do when not travelling but I often struggle to connect with the writers. We are human and life does get in the way, anxiety is a very human thing and it’s important that you spoke out. Plus sometimes you just wanna be in one place long enough to wash your clothes.

P.S there’s absolutely no shame in binge watching a few episodes of a great series to wind down!

By: Nisha Jha

Nisha Jha — Mon, 05 Dec 2016 20:22:35 +0000

I did not comment on this one earlier (some stupid technical reason) but stumbled upon this again.

I know I\’m late in replying but also know that you are okay. You are fine and doing good. Sometimes you need to let go of many things to move forward with the things you want to continue.
All the best Matt for future endeavors. Hope to meet you somewhere someday in this world.

By: Kristin

Kristin — Sun, 18 Sep 2016 14:26:52 +0000

I really appreciate this blog. It applies to all of us. I especially like your thought about making each day count. Making each day better. I’ve been going through a tough year and saying no is OK too. Being kind to yourself is very important.

By: Anna

Anna — Fri, 13 May 2016 08:09:45 +0000

In reply to Merry.

Hi Matt,

It was lovely to read your travel blog and new found maturity in learning to say “No thanks” to all your requests.

It was also wonderful to read Merry’s response – at 69 of age you’re an inspiration to me. Thank you for reminding me to be “grateful” for all that I have. Regards, Anna.

By: William Stephenson

William Stephenson — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 16:06:42 +0000

I honestly dream of the day that I could do something like this. I guess the first step is to get over the fear of public speaking and then build on the travel blog.

This post has made me super excited for South America as well!

By: Trisha Velarmino

Trisha Velarmino — Thu, 18 Feb 2016 08:25:46 +0000

You picked the perfect continent for long term travel! I inadvertently did the same thing for three years! Travelling slow allows you build deeper and stronger connections! It allows you to experience things you otherwise would not have experienced if you are travelling fast paced and on a set itinerary. My destinations were based on word of mouth by locals and fellow travellers alike. I lived spontaneously and trusted my instincts. I learn to become prepared for any situation. I grew. I fully observed and immersed myself in the sociocultural practices and traditions whilst getting some projects and work done! South America is safe, friendly and accommodating for any traveller.

After a tough and whirlwind year in Asia and Africa, I took a gamble by booking that ticket to South America. I had no idea what to expect. It was my first time to consider travelling long term, afraid and alone in a continent I have never been to. The experience taught me so much about myself – my strengths, weaknesses and capabilities. It helped me to become honest with myself. I got to clear my head reorient my thoughts into what matters and what doesn’t. After three years, I became fluent in Spanish, discovered my look for cooking, conquered countless of fears, became more appreciative of nature, more romantic and I don’t shy away from breaking into song and dance anymore.

Enjoy as much as you can of South America, Matt!

By: John J Gentry

John J Gentry — Thu, 11 Feb 2016 02:56:42 +0000

Matt thank you for your continuous updates and great information. You always bring something useful to all of us who also travel, and have been following for for some time.