I am new and maybe just a whale in terms of life experiences. I invested in travel experiences that are saved in a vault somewhere down my mind, and now steemit has given me the key to unlock it. That’s 4 years of crazy, dangerous, happy, sad, exciting experiences in different parts of the world worth writing about. I only wish I have all the energy to write more posts every day.
I was a Reports/QA Analyst for like 7 years, but I didn’t find meaning in this earn more, buy more, work more anymore. Now I am more into work less and live more. Friends are getting married and I’m still that crazy woman-child who is not taking life seriously. I read a book about this artist who sketches and travels with less money, and he inspired me to travel. Che Guevara's’ Motorcycle Diaries and Into the Wild also motivated me to get out of my comfort zone and defy society.
I booked a one-way ticket and only had around $800 me. That was not really enough to travel the world actually, but during those years I met some friends along the way who helped me big time. I also had some jobs and volunteering opportunities that helped me fund my trip.
I had nothing but courage. I just trust the universe will conspire to help me achieve my dream.
I don’t think I will go back to the corporate life, a lot of things have changed and I don’t think the same anymore. I prefer to work on a start-up project however difficult, and just be my own boss someday.
Long-travel is really life-changing for me, as it has broadened my mind, gave me new ideas and meaningful experiences. Below are the reasons I can travel and live off steemit at the moment.
I live simply
Minimalist life is the number one thing for me, and it was not an easy lifestyle at the beginning. Gone were the high heels, compulsive shopping and party days. I packed my life in a 32L backpack, and after a couple of years, I was surprised how I was able to live just with that. But of course, there is this constant adding and eliminating of stuff along the way. I always remove the extra weight as I prefer to be able to walk freely for a long time and run quickly when I need to. It is true when they say that ‘less is more’. I realized that I don’t really need that much in life, but I’m willing to invest in things that will give me some return like a laptop (I used this for writing and freelancing), camera (travel photos) and a cellphone (for useful apps). But these are not expensive brands because I always lose stuff when I travel anyway. I just make sure I have what I need.
When I removed all the clutter in my life, I was able to give more space for those things that matter to me.
I choose how to spend my money
Rather than buy a lot of shoes, expensive bags, and gadgets, I choose to spend my money on things that are more important to me or those that will give me some return on investment. I wouldn’t hesitate to pay the national park entrance fee or some nature activities. These are writable experiences. I will also treat myself with good food and drinks. Traveling on a budget does not mean I will deprive myself of good things, I just learned what are the things worth spending on.
I prefer a good conversation over a beer
Instead of spending money on things that I will only lose in the end, I’d rather buy you a beer, sit down on the sand and have an enlightening conversation while gazing at the sunset. We can talk about existentialism, computer, life in general or even stupid things. I’d rather spend my money to listen and learn from others and have a more human connection. I learned a lot from people I’ve met during my travel, those who gave me ideas and changed my outlook on life. And they all contributed to that vault of knowledge.
I try to be resourceful
I don’t travel with a lot of money but there are many ways that help me minimize the costs. I usually stay with the locals through Couchsurfing, and I also found volunteering opportunities through workaway. This is helpful especially when I am traveling in expensive countries. Accommodation is one of the biggest fixed costs travelers have and the good thing is that there are now tools and communities online that can reduce the expenses. If you are not so keen on staying for free with strangers, there’s also hostelworld, airbnb, and booking.com. I also use these especially when I needed a break from people.
I don’t have to wait until my savings run out, I try to look for jobs to further fund my trip. I usually prefer to work in scuba dive shops or travel agencies as these have the perks of having free tours while earning money at the same time. I even crossed off items on my bucket list through this way. These companies sometimes don’t advertise their job openings, so I just check trip advisor and just message all of them. I get lucky when out of those messages, one will respond and accept me. It’s all about being proactive and resourceful.
I am a learn-it-all than a know-it-all
I believe that I am still stupid, and that’s why I try to learn as much as I can. My problem is that I doubt myself all the time, even though I know that I can do something. When I am traveling, I try to see what I can learn from any situation - good or bad. I like to learn from people and from experiences. I'd rather have more books than clothes, as I prefer to invest in things that will remove my ignorance and enrich my mind.
I try to set aside some time to read every day wherever I am. I believe that if I don’t have time to read then I don't have time to write.
You are a true travel, most of the other people you call celebrity travelers that post about Atlantis hotel or their 5-star meal are tourists and there is a big difference between the two. Well done!
Hahaha @digdaga, yeah I'm not getting paid by Atlantis hotel or some resort. I wish! But no thanks, I really don't travel that way. I will probably promote my story of how I slept outside in the cold lol. I want people to learn from my own experiences, and make it possible for ordinary people like us to travel.
I just started following because you are a true traveler and hope you stay that way! We have plenty of tourist on this platform but few like you! Would also love to drink a beer with you if we cross paths, Let me know if you reach Dubai someday.
I am following you back! I will stay that way even if I earn more here in steemit, you don't have to worry about that. I'm not used to comfort and having things anyway, makes me feel guilty and conscious.
Beer would be nice!
I agree to that too. I'm more like a backpacker as well, but I have struggled with funding the trip so I always go back to home and get a job.
@diabolika It would be great if you post about how do you manage your fund and resources that support you throughout this 4 years. Cheers!
I have posted these in the past, those were just undervalued haha. But no worries, I'm gonna repost the links soon. Thanks @travelingtaka ! :)
Exactly why I follow you too!
Awww, thanks as always @abh12345 ! :)
I agree! It is difference between 5*tourist and traveler... I'm also backpacker and prefer to sleep outside luxury... But actually this is for me luxury! Those who sleeps in Atlantis hotels and eats 5-star meals are actually not exploring beauty of world and nature, but staying in comfort zone! May you travel well!
Please follow me, I'm new here @mateyav
I am not a traveler, while I do it only once a year for my annual leave and wish I can do it more. But at the same time, i can tell whats is real and what is fake, and nothing is more real than the things that attract the heart.
Thanks! :)
you're post inspires me! I have done a fair amount of traveling, but only manage to do it in small burst. When the money runs out. It's a desire to figure out having the courage to keep the adventure going for as long as possible.
May you have the courage to keep the adventure @arqetype !
I understand that the idea that money will run out gives some anxiety, but now steemit could help! ;)
I envy your just do it way of life. Into the wild was also a big inspiration in my life ;) , and I'm hoping in the future to meander where the wind might take me. Your pictures and stories of travels make me want to start today! Keep writing and traveling. Love the book in the last pic too.
May the wind take you where your heart wishes to be!
Thanks! :)
Thanks for your wonderful posts. I am on a hiatus from traveling in SE Asia for 4 years, in much the way you describe. I aim to be back on the road again within a year.
I just joined Steemit last week and have added 2 posts on two of my destinations in China.
That's cool! I'm gonna check out your posts soon. :)
Thanks for dropping by!
Such a great post! I'm really happy for you that things turned out this way.
Thank you. I'm happy too! :)
'Reports/QA Analyst for like 7 years' didn't realise that! Maybe I should be asking you about investing in steem power / bitcoin / etc😆
You didn't realize because I was asking you the most stupid things lol. You know better @xaero1 ;) with regard to crypto analysis, I'm just getting into it.
Besides, that was a long time ago, but I still keep track of my 'own data' like posts, profit, # of upvotes haha, time posted, ..with pivot table and all. and then I'll analyze!
But now it make sense a bit more, haha!
(I was a computer programmer ... but techniess is probably not that usual for a travel writer / creative writer 😄)
Believe it or not, I studied computer science lol. I just didn't take programming seriously. But I'm more into data, queries etc., ;)
Not as techie as you lol. I think you should write more too... Lots of tech topics, people are into that.
Thanks v much😄
Anyway, I think you made right choice!....I'm not going back to programming😉 (Maybe my own project' or alternately just hire someone instead!)
But Just like in your post..... even if I don't make any more from trading, I can still earn something like $400 per week on steeeeem right now by upvoting some random posts😂 (though don't know how long it will last!). So maybe enough to get by on🙃
Programming takes so much time for me, I don't know. Maybe because I'm not good at it. I like solving problems but I get consumed sometimes lol. It's like I'm just confined in my room and have no life anymore.
Also, that's why I' m studying crypto trade and maybe also invest here on steemit, then write. Then some other project about travel...
Yeah, or write. What are you doing, just write more lol. Yeah, hire someone who will do the job. So you can chill on the beach. ;)
Hah...😀
This is how life should be! True freedom! Wishing you all the best to your journey :) followed you and looking forward for more posts. Cheers from your fellow travellers
Thanks! :)
Very cool! good luck with your travels.
Thank you! :)
That book atlas shrugged was icing on the cake for me 😬😂🙌🏼
Haha. It was not easy reading that book while relaxing on the beach... lol. ;)
For many years, I tried and Ipad or even audio books... but nothing is better than a physical book ... I'm so old school :)
Call me weird but I love the smell of the old pages of a book lol.
Same here haha ... love your blogs, will be following them from now on :)
Following you too!
This post received a 4.5% upvote from @randowhale thanks to @diabolika! For more information, click here!
Execelent post @diabolika thanks for sharing.
No worries! :)
Exchange money for experiences = priceless
Exactly!
Wonderful post! I love your style of writing! Be proud of what you can achieve in life- big or small. Adventures and simply living life can give you all of the tools you need to become a succesful writer- keep it up!
Thank you! I agree.
May you find your own path through writing! I wish you all the best. ;) @meganvera-here
I've got same drive as you darling. Keep moving.
Thanks! :)
que bellos paisajes
Gracias por leer!
nice read
Thanks!
Well done... sometimes when people go overseas they feel it gives them a licence to get drunk, spend money and be disrespectful towards the locals.. but you have shown you can be wise and simple and still enjoy travelling!
Exactly, we are free to do anything as long as we don't cause harm to anyone. :)
A very inspiring post. I also loved travelling and my next big adventure is the Trans-Mongolia Rail where I travel from Beijing to St. Petersburg.
That's pretty cool @positivesteem! I'd be waiting for your posts about Trans-Mongolia trip! :)
Sure I will post about my Trans Mongolia Trip. Just make sure you follow me.
Already following you! :)
Following you as well. I want to read more about your adventures.
I got a bellyRub and this post has received a 55.56 % upvote from @bellyrub thanks to: @diabolika.
Yet another minimalist. Cool.
Thank you! :)
This post has received a 48.68 % upvote from @booster thanks to: @diabolika.
Great tips! Especially about the one about good company over beer. I agree, drinks get expensive, plus good conversation is why better and healthier! :)
I agree, but I can only buy one beer for you if it's expensive haha!
hahaha... save the money, and use it toward other travel adventures! :) Love your posts and what you are doing with your life!
Thanks as always! :)
OMGsh! Thanks for the upvote boost just now. Totally sweet and unexpected! :) You just made my day.
I am recovering my sp (noob upvote spree lol!). No worries!
you are awesome! :)
Very cool. If only there was a travel challenge going on on steemit right now... hint hint!
Thanks @goldmatters! With w/o Steemit travel challenge, I must move on... ;)
If you are interested, look at the top of the promoted page :):)
Wow, that's a pretty cool challenge you're doing for steemit! I would have to go out and find a very nice place for that! I'll see, ;) Thanks!
Let me know :)
I am reading Fountainhead right now!! Eep, and I love it. I love Ayn Rand to death. I loved your post on travel, especially the point about minimalism. That's what I focus on as well, to be able to do all of the different things that I do - I am living in Chiang Mai, Thailand, right now. If you come down this way, let me know.
I read the Fountainhead before I traveled. It inspired me to travel, follow my dreams, defy the majority and get some start-up ideas during my journey. I was also reading Atlas Shrugged while I was traveling, but I couldn't seem to get past Galt's boring speech lol, that I left the book somewhere in Brazil. Freeing up some space in my backpack!
Finishing this book is part of my bucketlist now lol. I promise to finish it this year, and I also love it!
Sure, I might revisit Thailand! :)
Excellent post @diabolika, I liked the narrative, beautiful images, I follow you, we must support ourselves as a community, I would appreciate it if you give me a look at my last post and give me your opinion, greetings and success in everything! :)
Thank you, following you back. I will check your posts and see what you've got there! ;)
Thanks :)
Hey @diabolika true a free spirited post and gets me in the spirit to travel myself. Would love to emulate and follow in your steps. Travel Far and Be Safe.
I would be following your blog
I'm happy that my post encouraged you to travel! :)
Thanks, don't forget to share your stories.
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STOPThis is great! I am so excited to get on the road to promote Steemit.com!
Yeah! That's also one good purpose, to travel - promote steemit! :)
Interesting @diabolika. You certainly have invested in your education and growth in the world. Good for you! Look forward to more of you posts. I followed and resteemed for you.
Thank you very much @sallykwitt! :)
Nice.
Yes, you are a traveller and not a tourist. Backpacking is great and even if life gets in the way with kids and house and everything, the colors do not wash off... the constant urge to hit the road is always there.
I have a ton of slides from my south east asia trip back in 1986-1987, that will eventually turn into an travel story here on steemit. I am slowly learning how to do this and collecting followers along the way. Here is an example of my (tourist) trip to central europe part 1 of 4: https://steemit.com/travel/@lazzelazer/the-grand-central-european-road-tour-part1-budapest
I don't want to miss anything you write so I'm following you ;-)
Wow, I'm gonna check out your posts as soon. Even though backpacking has gone mainstream now, it's still the best way to find our purpose and to live life to the fullest!
Just keep writing your adventures and you'll gain followers in no time. :)
I'm following you back @lazzelazer !
This is a great article summarizing the basics of travel.
I really think that one is essential. However, 32l doesn't seem that much. How much of everything do you carry along?
My story has yet to begin, and articles like these only make me more eager. After I am done with my world trip I would love to kidnap my girlfriend and take on the world together.
Thank you so much for sharing.
I agree, not that much! I might a bigger backpack soon. I was carrying a longboard and a small backpack for my laptop and other stuff.
I really hope you travel soon @sjennon. It's also nice to travel with a friend, you are lucky! My friends are not really travelers...
Which one do you have now and which one are you planning to take? I was looking at the Osprey 40l ones, however not sure if that'll suffice. I also need to start looking at daypacks yea.. However, I might just take my simple Decathlon 10l bag :)
Yes! Leaving next January for 6 to 7 months. Then come back and hopefully travel more after that.
I just have the Deuter backpack, very durable! Worth the investment I guess.
Wow, good luck, can't wait to read your posts about your travel! :)
I'll look it up, thanks!
Haha, thanks! I can't wait to travel :D
Good for you for following your own path. This leads to self-discovery and a generally better life.
This deserves an upvote ;-)
I appreciate the upvote! :)
Thanks!
great post, " doubt yourself all the time" true, but we gotta keep in mind the cliche words" believe in yourself". and great tips .
Thanks for the advice. Thanks a lot! :)
Work less live more sounds like an awesome motto- nice post !
That is the dream! But we'll slowly get there ... Thank you as always @dandesign86
A good conversation over a beer, thats the stuff diabolika! Nice post, followed!
Haha, thank you. Cheers! ;)
@diabolika
please estimate my travel to India
https://steemit.com/travel/@goshawalker/travel-to-india-gokarna
Tank you @diabolika
that is the true way to traveling. Also moustly what I do when I travel. The life is much more then working 8 hours every day! you are a great inspiration for the People outside. TAKE A RISK AND TRAVEL, no matter how much money you have.
I post also about my Trip without any plans https://steemit.com/travel/@thehipsterguru/traveling-without-any-plan-with-special-travelclip
@thehipsterguru
I agree, it's nice to meet a fellow traveler here.
I'm going to check your post when I have recovered my sp!
great post!
Wow !!!
You said it all loud and clear. I wish you all the best on your journey. It is inspiring and beautiful. To live is to aspire for less. that is the key to happiness. Thank you for sharing your insight.
Peace and love !!!
Thanks as always! :)
You are such an inspiration! I always loved traveling and exploring new places around the world. I write about my travels, but I'm just a newbie here on Steemit. I hope that one day I'll be able to travel and live off Steemit like you!!
Followed you and looking forward for more posts
Thank you. Just continue writing and don't give up! Anyway, it's a fun community here.
Following you back!
Thank you! I really appreciate it
Very much wanted to like you, enjoy life and travel wherever you want ... Very inspiring ... Hopefully, later on you can also pay a visit to my region, namely Aceh, Sumatra.
I've been to Sumatra, Bukitinggi, Padang and the South. :)
Wooww ... It turns out that you have a lot of exploring the world.. Really good work. Applause!!
Thanks! :)
What I find the most interesting is the reference "I’m still that crazy woman-child who is not taking life seriously" because to me it's the complete contrary. You're living responsibly because you are living fully. You're doing the right thing because you're going with your gut, and that is scary and real.
When I see people playing it "safe" all their lives, I don't see them taking THEIR lives seriously.
People used to think I wasn't taking life seriously because I was always broke while pursuing my dreams. Nowadays those same people come with all the questions of how I am able to live my lifestyle (not just in terms of affordability).
Chapeau and keep living your truth! Your spirit is in the right place and your actions are following. I have a ton of private Facebook groups I can invite you to if you're looking to become a digital nomad. Great networking opportunities.
P.s. You are DEFINITELY not stupid and we are all learners until we die!
@naomibowler, thanks I appreciate your kind words.
Yeah, I know I've been judged many times for my chosen lifestyle but it's ok, I'm not living up to anyone's expectations, so I don't really care.
People will always have something to say anyway, so just follow your heart and do whatever you think is best for you! ;) As long as we are not causing harm to others.
Ok, I'll let you know. Following you back! :)
Yay! Glad I found you!
:)
Good stuff, ya gots another follower.
"The good traveller doesn't where he's going, the great traveller doesn't know where he's been" Chuang Tzu
Also if you haven't already, find and read some Martha Gelhorn.
Cheers and happy trails!
Thanks for the words of wisdom. :)
Ok, I will check now. Thanks!
Great Post :)
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STOPI love what you said about keeping a vault of memories from your Travels. Such a great approach.
Thank you for this post makes me want to go somewhere today! This is so exciting.
No worries! :)
Madam, you are living the dream 👍
Thanks! :)
I agree. People by definition are just great and talking to a stranger can be a fascinating experience. You never know what to expect, right? Especially if the person you’re talking to comes from a completely different and unique cultural background. They show you how we human beings really are; so different and yet so similar at the same time. There’s so much we could learn from others if only we took the time to try it. Some of the facts are simply mindblowing. That´s why embracing ˝different˝ is so important. The time we live in is the safest in the history of humankind, so we need to stop escalating the negative and start to learn from each other. Learning and listening will give us the knowledge to accept the good in people. To transcend the fear from unknown and be able to look for solutions that will someday bring us together and not tear us apart. Hopefully. I have to say you truly are a courageous and inspiring individual. Go, girl!
Thanks for your wise words. I agree that embracing different is really important, opening ourselves to changes is essential for our own growth.
Steem on!