My trip is just a few weeks away and as it gets closer I’m finally getting my crap together for my trip. For context I’m arriving as a tag-a-long as my partner is a massage therapist and going for continuing education and training (I see SO much massage stuff in Chiang Mai it’s mind boggling, and can’t wait to learn why such focus on this industry organically). In the grand scheme, it’s her trip and I’m along for the ride with a bunch of free time while she’s in class.
For me, it’s elative as there’s still no *major* drive or excitement. This for me is exciting as I have no expectations and can experience a whole part of the world and culture with fresh open eyes. I would say this is akin to what others hope for when “backpacking” minus the actual stress of it all lol.
I’m no stranger to international travel, and as an American it can be met with different experiences. I’ve had to hang my head low and tread softly. I’ve seen places where Americans along with the culture is met with wonder and desire. And I’ve been in between where being American means being subjected to higher rates, borderline taken advantage of, being the butt end of a joke, just for it all to be turned around by giving a small bottle of Maple Syrup or one time, exchanging my hat. After those experiences I’ve learned to never leave without something that is needed or desired where I am traveling to. Whether as a gift of appreciation, bartering item, or just making a strangers day I strive to bring our suitcases as heavy as I intend to leave (we’re already packing a bunch of childrens books to donate).
From what I’ve been reading in this subreddit and small amounts of research I am happy to see that my partners first international trip will be somewhere safe and welcoming from what I can tell. But sometimes no blog or youtube video can cover what it is actually like for an American to travel to specific areas in the world. So aside from being a respectful, courteous traveler what is the true, no sugarcoated opinion of yankee travelers?
And if I want to make someone’s day, is there anything “neat”, “cool”, or “desirable” from the states that is a good gift?
And as mentioned, if there’s anyone reading this that is craving or desiring something from the states just shoot me a PM. Not looking to make any cash or obligations, just make someone else’s day better. But would gladly take a drink/coffee or just a good conversation in return.
