fbpx

Go Backpacking

Round the World Travel Guide

New York State of Mind

By

I made it…..to New York City! One small step today, in preparation for one giant leap tomorrow. I estimate from the time I leave for JFK airport, to the time I arrive at Chez Nelson on Moorea, I'll be in transit a good 20-24 hours (if no delays).

I thought I'd need to reach Tahiti to feel relaxed, however it happened when I was waiting in the chilly morning air on 15th and K St in DC, watching all the nicely dressed professionals walk to work (via Starbucks). My anxiety switched to living in the moment, and all I can say now that I'm in my friend's apartment is “wow” this feels weird (that I'm the guy doing it, not some random other guy/gal) and exciting.

On my first travel day, I was quickly reminded of a few good rules of thumb:

  • Be patient (the bus was 40 minutes late, and all I've got on is a t-shirt and windbreaker)
  • Bring food on the bus (since the bus was late, it didn't make a pit-stop as usual)
  • When evaluating what to pack, walk for an hour in a city, because 20lbs feels a lot lighter on a carpeted bedroom floor

I'd post a dreary photo of NYC's skyline, however I can't figure out how to work this MacBook very well. You'll have to imagine it, and I'll make up for it with a few photos from French Polynesia.

Last Updated on

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Yea New York how did your pack fit in the airplane did you carry it on or check it? Thats one airplane ride down 78 more to go haha..

  2. Yea New York how did your pack fit in the airplane did you carry it on or check it? Thats one airplane ride down 78 more to go haha..

  3. wth you thinking?! going on a trip and you dont know how to use your electronics and you didnt pack a snack?? :oops:

  4. wth you thinking?! going on a trip and you dont know how to use your electronics and you didnt pack a snack?? :oops:

  5. Outstanding Dave!!!

    So glad to see the adventure begin, and you are relaxed right off! I can’t believe it is here already! behind ya all the way!

    best regards, and enjoy
    -skip

  6. Outstanding Dave!!!

    So glad to see the adventure begin, and you are relaxed right off! I can’t believe it is here already! behind ya all the way!

    best regards, and enjoy
    -skip