Author: Inquisitive Society

Hey there, I’m gearing up for a pretty epic trip to Japan, China (specifically Beijing and Tibet), and Nepal this November. I’ve been thinking about getting e-sims for my adventure. Now, the big question on my mind is whether I should go for a nomad e-sim that covers all three countries or get separate ones for each. I’m curious about how easy it is to switch between them and if there are any tricks to it. Speaking of China, do I need a VPN if I have an e-sim? And if so, what’s the best one to use right now?

Now, let’s talk cash. I know I’ll need a mix of currencies for my journey – USD for Tibet, Yen for Japan, RMB for China, and Nepali rupees for Nepal. I’m thinking it might be simplest to just withdraw all the cash I need before I jet off, but man, that’s a lot of dough to lug around. Is it even easy to get USD in China, and where’s the best place to swap currencies – airport or ATMs?

Also, I’m all about making my life easier with apps. Right now, I’ve got Tableog and Smartex for Japan, Alipay and WeChat for China, and Pathao for Nepal. Any other app recommendations to streamline my journey would be totally appreciated.

So, here’s the deal. After years of full-time nomading, living in different places for 3 to 4 months at a time, I’m starting to feel the need to slow down a bit. I’m thinking of settling in one city for most of the year, but don’t worry, I’ll still be hitting the road now and then because, let’s face it, that travel bug never really goes away. One thing I’ve really grown accustomed to is the sweet deal of paying lower taxes under the US Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) and enjoying the generally lower cost of living in the spots I’ve been crashing at.

Now, here’s the kicker. While cutting back on my nomad lifestyle will definitely simplify things and save me some cash (goodbye, expensive flights), it also means taking a hit on the financial front. I’ll have to start shelling out taxes in the country where I decide to set up camp, and let’s not forget about the cost of living in that new spot (which, by the way, happens to be pricier). It’s a bit of a tough pill to swallow, but I figure it’s time to make the sacrifice for a bit more stability in my life. I’m looking forward to having a home base, a solid group of friends, better chances at finding a special someone, and, of course, my very own space to call home sweet home.

I know, I know, being able to live the nomad life is a real privilege, and I’m totally aware of how lucky I’ve been to experience it. So, don’t get me wrong, I’m not complaining. I’m just curious about how others who’ve been in my shoes felt when they made the switch and how they see things now. It’s all about finding that balance between adventure and stability, right? And hey, maybe this new chapter will bring a whole different kind of excitement to my life. Who knows, right?

I recently came across a fascinating tale about a remarkably sturdy leather rucksack with a rich history. In filmmaker Werner Herzog’s memoir, he recalls receiving this bag from travel writer Bruce Chatwin, who passed away from AIDS-related complications in 1989. Chatwin had originally described himself to Herzog as “*tall and blond and look like a schoolboy*” carrying a leather rucksack. Despite Chatwin’s demise, Herzog continues to use the bag regularly, valuing it above all his possessions. The rucksack, crafted by a saddler in Cirencester, had already traveled thousands of miles with Chatwin before becoming Herzog’s cherished possession.

The significance of this bag is not merely sentimental; it played a crucial role in Herzog’s own survival during a perilous mountain ordeal. In the film *Scream of Stone*, inspired by Chatwin’s rucksack, Herzog depicts a harrowing experience where he and his companions faced near-death circumstances in freezing mountains. With minimal supplies and harsh conditions, Herzog, using Chatwin’s empty rucksack, huddled in a makeshift shelter to endure the freezing temperatures. While some claim the rucksack saved his life, Herzog acknowledges that it was the collective body warmth that kept them alive.

Herzog’s connection to the rucksack runs deep, leading him to dedicate a documentary, *Nomad: In the Footsteps of Bruce Chatwin*, to Chatwin’s memory and the significance of the rugged bag. Through this film, Herzog shares his experiences with the rucksack and the poignant story of how Chatwin entrusted it to him before his passing. This bag, though heavy and not particularly modern, symbolizes resilience and endurance, making it a tangible link to the adventurous spirit of Chatwin and Herzog.

In conclusion, the leather rucksack embodies more than just a functional item; it represents a lasting bond between two extraordinary individuals and their shared experiences of survival and exploration. The bag’s enduring legacy serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of adventure and the profound connections that can be forged through shared hardships and cherished possessions. This story serves as a reminder of the power of objects to transcend their material value and carry profound emotional significance.

Hey guys, just got back from my awesome five-day adventure in Lisbon and wanted to share some quick thoughts with you. The city was absolutely stunning, and the weather was surprisingly pleasant, especially compared to the scorching heat I endured in Rome last summer. Lisbon was bustling with tourists, but once I strayed away from the main areas like Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Chiado, the crowds thinned out significantly. Exploring the quieter streets of Estrela, Alcantara, and Misericordia was so peaceful, with only a few tourists crossing my path until I hit LX Factory.

As I wandered around, I couldn’t help but notice the many rundown and abandoned buildings scattered throughout the city. It got me thinking about the city’s plans for them – are they going to be demolished, or are they simply not a priority for the local authorities? Personally, I found them charming, yet they did take up quite a bit of space.

One of the highlights of my trip was stumbling upon a live fado performance at the Fado Museum. It was such a magical and unexpected experience that I highly recommend checking out. Now, I’m not sure if they have live singing every day, but it’s definitely worth looking into.

On the flip side, my first day in Lisbon had a bit of a sour moment. Shortly after leaving my hotel, I was approached by a guy offering to sell me marijuana or cocaine, right in the midst of a crowd of tourists. Another person later tried to sell me marijuana with hand signals at Praça do Município. It was a bit uncomfortable, to say the least.

Let’s talk about the metro – Lisbon’s public transportation system is a dream. The metro is super easy to navigate, quick, and dirt cheap. I hopped on from the airport to the city center for under 4 euros total – no need for pricey taxis or Ubers.

Funny thing though, I couldn’t help but wonder why the locals pegged me as a tourist right away. In Turkey, Italy, France, and Spain, I managed to blend in, but in Portugal, I stuck out like a sore thumb. What did I miss or do differently here? Guess I’ll have to work on my undercover skills for next time!

Overall, Lisbon was a fantastic destination, especially for solo travelers like myself. The mix of history, culture, and vibrant atmosphere made for an unforgettable trip. If you’re planning your next adventure

Hey there, folks! So, I recently bid farewell to my trusty Fjallraven Raven backpack, which has been my go-to since the end of 2019. Why the switch, you ask? Well, I snagged a sweet deal on the Herschel Kaslo a few days back and couldn’t resist. But before I part ways with my old faithful, I wanted to share some thoughts in this little review.

Let me start with what I absolutely love about the Fjallraven Raven. First off, the sheer number of pockets is mind-blowing. The laptop compartment is top-notch, snugly fitting my 14-inch MacBook and 11-inch iPad with ease. I even managed to squeeze in two 14-inch MacBooks and my Switch at times, and everything felt secure as Fort Knox. Plus, the bonus of slipping in loose papers without a single crinkle? Priceless.

Then, there’s the easy-access top compartment, a real game-changer. Surprisingly spacious, it doesn’t encroach on the main compartment’s space – perfect for stashing all sorts of goodies. Speaking of which, that main compartment is a black hole of storage potential. I once survived a week-long trip using only this bag, and it aced the grocery-hauling test too. The inner pocket is a handy touch for quick grabs, like my precious sunglasses, which miraculously survived the brim-filled bulging.

Let’s not forget the second front pocket, unzipping all the way down for easy access even when the bag’s bursting at the seams. The organizational wizardry inside keeps my random knickknacks like pens, bandaids, and the like in check. Although, a slight hiccup with the stitching in one of the pockets over time.

The main front pocket serves its purpose, housing essentials like my wallet and hand sanitizer, though a tad tricky to navigate when the bag’s crammed full. And can we talk about the classy leather handle and logo aging like fine wine over the six years we’ve been through together?

As for wear and tear, the bottom took a beating in the last couple of years, understandably from rubbing against my back. But hey, the zippers are still going strong, so no biggie.

Now, on to the niggles. The backpack’s eternal struggle to stand on its own – a common gripe that I’ve learned to live with. The side pockets are a bit sting

I’ve been into one-bagging for a couple of years now, mainly for work trips lasting around a week. I initially tried out some cheap compression cubes from Amazon to keep things organized and fit more into my 40L backpack with minimal effort. The first set I got was a bargain at 15 bucks for six pieces, and they did the job fine in the beginning. However, after a few flights, the zippers started acting up, and one even tore at the seam when I packed too many socks. It was a hassle to tape it back together, especially when I was stuck in a hotel room without proper tools.

I then switched to a different brand, possibly knockoffs of Eagle Creek cubes, but those quickly lost their shape and failed to compress well after just one wash. Now, they’re just floppy bags taking up space in my drawer. Since I travel every couple of months, I’ve decided it’s time to invest in something more durable that won’t break the bank. I’m looking to spend around 40-50 bucks on a set of four or five cubes that can compress layers effectively and prevent odors from dirty laundry.

I’m seeking recommendations for compression cubes that can last a season or two without falling apart. I’m particularly interested in insights on materials like nylon versus other options that might make a difference in terms of durability. Additionally, I’m curious about the best way to clean these cubes without damaging the zippers. If you’ve had experiences with seemingly good cubes that turned out to be duds in the long run, please share your insights so I can avoid making the same mistakes and save myself from having to repurchase every year.

Hey there! So, I just got my hands on this bag that arrived in the mail today. Another user shared some pics, but I don’t have more to add right now unless you have something specific in mind. I just want to share a few thoughts in case you’re on the fence about trying or buying this bag. Let me compare it a bit to the Mini MLC I had before.

First off, let’s talk about the laptop/admin panel. Unlike the Mini MLC, the laptop space in this bag isn’t separate. It’s in the main compartment and has less organization. The 14″ MacBook Pro might slide around a bit in there, but it’s padded on both sides. There’s a bit of padding on the back panel that’s missing on the front, and the top cover has some padding too. While the laptop may feel loose, you can squeeze in a laptop sleeve for extra padding, although it takes up more space. I managed to fit a Cotopaxi 14″ laptop sleeve in there by bending it a bit.

Moving on to the admin panel, it surprisingly offers decent organization with pen pockets, slip pocket, zip mesh pocket, and a large zip pocket. Just be cautious with bulky items pushing into each other. The main space is roomy, similar to the Mini MLC, with a mesh that zips around. You can stuff a bunch of items in there, and the front outside pocket is expandable, though it gets snug when the main compartment is full.

The external lash loops can be attached across the front or back panel, but they might block zippers. The backpack shoulder straps are comfy, and there’s space to add a hip belt for stability. The messenger strap is basic, with no padding. The bag’s material is a mix of rubberized and standard, with the rubberized part possibly aiding in waterproofing.

One thing I found unnecessary is the two small handles on the front. They could have been replaced with a cup holder. I plan to use this bag for a test run and then possibly for travel. The noble grey color is a nice balance of subtle and colorful, and the logo isn’t too flashy.

Overall, this bag seems versatile and spacious, though a bit bulky when fully loaded. If you have any specific questions or need a closer look at any part, feel free to ask. The online images don’t do it justice, so happy to help out!

So, I finally hopped on the one-bag bandwagon, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer. Recently, I went on a trip with my 11-year-old and his dad. Each of us had just one bag to our name. Here’s the lowdown on what I packed: 1 jumper, 1 dress, 1 pair of jeans, 2 t-shirts, and 2 sets of undergarments. I made sure to include PJs for both my son and me, as well as an outfit for him. His dad matched up with the same items, minus the dress. Oh, and we didn’t forget the essential toiletries, except for shampoo and conditioner which we picked up at our destination.

In our son’s bag, we loaded up on all our in-flight essentials – books, chargers, power bank, you name it. Let me tell you, it was smooth sailing. Initially, I was all about saving some cash, but the convenience of traveling light has won me over. We lucked out with a place that had a washer-dryer, which felt a bit like bending the rules, but hey, I’ll take it.

My trusty bag only set me back £5 at Decathlon, and those two nifty packing compression cubes were part of a set I snagged from a TikTok shop. They doubled as handy extra bags during our trip. Can I just say, I am over the moon to officially be part of the one-bag club. It’s all about making life simpler, and boy, does it deliver.

Hey, so I’ve got this crazy goal of hitting up every single country on the map. Yeah, I know, it’s gonna cost me big time, but I’m all about being savvy with my travel budget. My go-to tool for sniffing out those sweet, sweet deals has always been Google Flights. It’s a game-changer, man. You just punch in where you’re flying from, keep your dates and destination open, and boom, you get this cool map showing you round-trip prices to tons of places. And get this – you can set a max price limit too!

But here’s the kicker – Google Flights kinda drops the ball when it comes to flexibility. Like, sure, you can choose between a 2-day, 7-day, or 14-day trip, but what if you wanna mix it up? Airlines work in mysterious ways, and sometimes tweaking your travel dates can land you a killer deal. So, I decided to branch out and test the waters with Skyscanner and Hopper today.

Skyscanner is almost there with its open-ended trip duration feature. I mean, being able to select any number of days for your trip is pretty sweet. But here’s the catch – you can’t filter your search results until after you’ve picked a destination. Talk about putting the cart before the horse, right? Plus, it seems like Skyscanner might miss out on some of those dirt-cheap international flights that Google Flights snags, probably because they’re tapping into a different data pool.

Now, Hopper, on the other hand, didn’t quite hit the mark for me. I couldn’t seem to find a way to explore destinations flexibly, which is a bummer. I mean, what’s the point of having a fixed destination in mind when you’re all about that spontaneous travel life?

So, here I am, on the hunt for new tools to fuel my wanderlust without burning a hole in my pocket. If you’ve got any hot tips or favorite apps that you swear by for scoring budget-friendly flights, hit me up. I’m all ears! Cheers to cheaper travels and exploring every nook and cranny of this beautiful world.

I recently embarked on my first solo adventure at the age of 26, and let me tell you, the nerves were real. The day of departure, the reality sunk in that there was no turning back. Despite the initial apprehension, this solo trip turned out to be a game-changer for me, though I won’t deny that there were moments of loneliness, especially when surrounded by groups or couples. Originally, this journey was meant to be shared with friends, but when they bailed last minute, I made the bold choice to go solo. And looking back now, I couldn’t be happier with that decision.

My destination was Patong in Phuket, a place renowned for its vibrant party atmosphere. However, I only hit the town once. The rest of my time was dedicated to immersing myself in the local culture, forging connections with the community, and bonding with fellow solo travelers. The hospitality extended to me by the locals was overwhelming—they treated me like one of their own, offering free meals, discounts, and genuine warmth. There was a shift within me during this trip, a change that I’m still processing, but one thing is clear—I returned home a transformed individual.

If you’re contemplating a solo travel experience and feeling hesitant, my advice is simple: go for it. Push past the fear and take the leap. You might just discover a side of yourself that has been waiting to break free.