Picture this: You’ve finished university, you’ve ditched your stuff in a storage facility and you’ve said your soggy goodbyes to loved ones. Indeed, it is time to embark on a year of thrill, adventure, and adrenaline known as backpacking.
Some might ask, “Why on earth would I drop everything and go bonkers in far-flung places?”
The straightforward answer would be that you’ve got the world in the palm of your hands and complete independence at heart. So bring out your maps and hiking boots for the rough and tumble of five saucy backpacking destinations.
1. Peace-Keeping Ghandi – India
If you’re looking to find yourself spiritually, then India is the answer. What you will discover is that you’ll either love it or hate it. The crowded, polluted, and fast-paced environment can be overwhelming. Yet the sheer culture shock you’ll experience upon arrival is reason enough to go and experience something completely new. The people are incredibly warm-hearted and the country has tons of riches in culture, art, and food. The beaches of Goa, Varanasi and Kerala are all must-visit spots along with the Taj Mahal of course. If you’re the sporty type then good news; India offers easy access to trekking routes in the Himalayas.
And I haven’t even mentioned that the curry is fabulously delicious, and accommodation, food, and transport are dirt cheap. It’s also a country that’s been trodden on many times before, so backpackers will be able to give you lengthy advice for further hotspots. As India is a huge country, try not to rush into experiencing it all at once. India demands your full attention, so don’t be afraid to lose yourself in its spirituality and colourful history.
Rajasthan, India
2. The Land of Mulan – China
China is definitely a jaw-dropping country to visit. If you’re looking to gain celebrity status, where people will keenly snap photos of you and chat to you excitedly, then highlight China as a must-see backpacking destination. Its plentiful history, art, and theatre will keep you on your toes, and its range of off-the-beaten-track routes will make you giddy with adventure. Eat what another 1.4 billion people eat every day and expose your stomach to delicious sweet and sour pork chops. Why not take it a step further and succumb to the challenge of using chop sticks to grasp slippery noodles and sticky rice?
Yet, China isn’t all easy. Mandarin is a tricky language to learn, but fear not, your hands will speak for you. The traffic laws are nonexistent and every car ride gives you a heart attack. There is also a whole other level of random in China that you can’t find anywhere else. But what it will undoubtedly do is provide you with a bundle of adventures you will never forget. Whether you’re looking to practice some serious Kung Fu art in the beautiful mountains, watch Pandas and eat real dumplings, or do a cycling tour around the Great Wall, China has it all. Just make sure you master your peace sign for the photographs!
The old city wall of Xian decorated with lanterns and flags, China.
3. Salsa and Mojitos- Latin America
From the rainforests of Brazil to the volcanoes of Ecuador, and from the coral reefs of Belize, to the iconic Machu Picchu ruins of Peru; Latin America has it all. Backpacking here is a true eye opener; colorful, exotic, and busy, you’ll never run out of things to do. The Iguaza Falls are stunning, and if you fancy bordering Brazil and Argentina whilst taking in the breathtaking view of the waterfall then pack your bags right now. The good news is that your purse will be zipped up most of the time as Latin America is catered to low-budget food and accommodation. You’ll also be meeting fellow backpackers at all times as it’s a hotspot for travellers.
A must-do is to get involved in either, Tango, Salsa, or Merengue. There’s nothing better than experiencing Spanish culture whilst moving to the Latino beats. Even better, give Tango street dancing a go in Buenos Aires. Lastly, meat should be at the top of your food list. The notorious Piccanha will leave you drooling for more. Don’t be afraid to indulge the meat-lover side of you. Sadly, for vegetarians, Latin America doesn’t cut it.
Iguaza falls, Bordering Brazil and Argentina
4. Culture Hub – South-East Asia
South-east Asia casts an allure like no other. From pristine beaches, to vibrant cities and buzzing nightlife, this magical part of the world is hugely popular with backpackers. Firstly, Asia has food to die for, which is the only reason you need for scheduling a visit to the Far East. From the street snacks in Bangkok, to Vietnamese banquets and Malaysian curry; there’s a lifetime of happiness in the delicious quality of food. Secondly, South-Asia is cheap. Particularly in Laos and Vietnam you can easily get by with 15 dollars per day. Expect to be paying 20 pounds worth for 4 star hotel, and meals as cheap as 30 cents.
South-East Asia is the definition of summer heaven. Since the beach season never ends, ditch the coats and long sleeves and opt for comfy sandals and summer clothes. Year round you can brave out the crystal waters off of Bali, Thailand, or Malaysia, and go snorkeling or scuba diving. Another ‘do not miss’ is Thailand’s full moon party. It’s a rite of passage for young backpackers, with a throbbing mass of DJs and dancers decked out on the beach. What could be cooler than having raucous, drunken fun?
Boarding long-tall boat from Thailand’s Ko Phil Le, near Phuket
5. The real off-the-beaten track – New Zealand
Lord of the Rings has a fabulous setting for a reason. New Zealand is a place where the outdoors is celebrated; where you can take off on solo hiking routes, or bed down at camping spots along stunning, natural scenery. New Zealand is addictive. Be it the quality of life, the miles and miles of untouched, remote and natural surroundings, or the friendly, helpful locals; something about this country will grab you and not let you leave. In a country the size of the state of Colorado, you have less than 4 million people, 40 million sheep, and every possible landscape you could imagine.
Queenstown from above, New Zealand
So whether it’s tropical cocktails that tempt you, awe-inspiring scenery, or a spiritual journey; just remember there’s something out there for everyone, so don’t be afraid!
Image sources:
http://www.odintours.com/destination.php?id=20&type=sub
http://www.guardian.co.uktravelblog2010jun09ask-tom-china-backpacking
http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/brazil+backpacking
http://www.nationalgeographic.comadventureadventure-travelasiathailand-m…
http://www.newzealand.com/travel/about-nz/features/backpacking-new-zeala…