THE TRAVEL BLOG OF TROY HENDERSHOTT, GLOBAL BACKPACKER FOR ALMOST 3-YEARS CONTINUOUS, SINCE 2012

SATURDAY NIGHT FIESTA

8/12/2012

Food is our common ground, a universal experience.
— James Beard

Saturday, August 11, 2012 (DAY 160)
It’s a Saturday night fiesta. Marc and I are two crazy party animals as we’ve decided to indulge in irresponsible behavior of the highest level of gluttony. Beginning with ordering an entire pizza, with a previous appetizer of two chicken gyros, dual tubes of Pringles, and our drink of choice is an entire liter of Coca Cola, not just a large but a liter of cola. Our magnificent loco fiesta as we stuff our faces while watching the comedic genius of Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby, please, don’t judge us for our insane lifestyle, even as we can hear the numerous pounding beats of the nightclubs in town below us. Our contentment in our decision for a quieter movie night with more junk than I have consumed in months reminds me of Saturday night date nights with Andrea as we would order massive amounts of sushi with a bottle of red wine before falling into food comas while a movie is barely half way through. I do miss all the laughs and deep conversations that we have shared since we have known one another for more than most of the years we have been alive; the countless hours spent on the patio of Old Chicago under warm summer nights, the infamous garage sessions that is a staple of the 4020 house which were always full of laughter, treasure hunting trips on Saturday afternoons at some of the most ridiculous thrift stores around Denver, rewarding ourselves for nothing in particular with forty minutes drives to Pink Berry or the nearest source of ice cream (yes, this is my secret shame), her homemade cooking that I failed her when choosing her mother’s pumpkin pie over hers in a blind taste test (oh, Debbie), and all of the other wonderful times I have had with such a wonderful lifelong friend. Miss you boo! I still can never thank her family enough for all that they have given me through their generosity; from the friendship of her brother Jeremy to the mentoring of her dad, and all of the hospitality and love that made me feel as much a part of their family as my own. The Vlads truly are genuine in nature and I miss them all dearly, especially the food comas that I left with each and every time I was graced with a place at their dinner table. Oh, how this single blog entry had to revolve much around food as I sit here with only coffee in my tummy, so with that, I am now on a mission to find something to replace this hunger even though it will never compare to the infamous made-from-scratch meals that cause my taste buds to water each and every time I think of it.

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LIFE BEST LIVED

8/10/2012

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My friends, may we never take for granted the many blessings we have in this life. Be grateful for what you have and remember, this life we live is best lived when not lived for us. — Jeremy Vlad

Thursday, August 9, 2012 (DAYS 158 & 159)
Hot and humid, the consistent forecast for SJDS that I have grown accustom to over the past few months is no longer an uncomfortable thought, but has become an accepted part of living in Central America. While Skyping with my cousin Mike, I told him several of the differences, or rather inconveniences of both traveling and living in Third World conditions. The first, is the bathrooms. The analogy that I gave him that caused an eruption of laughter was explaining to him that the outdoor bathrooms, which while they have proper toilets, is equivalent to trying to take a dump while sitting in a sauna. From the moment you enter the small stall that has your knees practically touching the door, beads of sweat begin to roll down every part of your skin. Jealous? Envious? Try to hold back those feelings because I have plenty more experiences that make the joys of travel, adventures all their own in the daily practices that have been taken for granted. Each morning, I typically begin with a cup of a coffee in spite of the thickness as the liquid drips out with the texture of toxic sludge than that of the caffeinated fuel to begin my day. Even after being told that, Toro, the cheapest yet best brand of coffee in Nicaragua is used, I could not long more for even a cup of instant Kroger brand coffee that is four days old, that’s how delicious this black liquid is as it hits my taste buds. Sleeping is a game of Russian roulette, as you never know what type of bed you may be not finding a comfortable nights sleep in; from the death bunk at Caye Caulker where I was certain Char would be crashing through the removebale wooden slates that shifted with even the slightest movements she would make, to paper thin foam mattresses that carry the thickness of a Ritz cracker, to locating the birthplace of Aids at the hotel in La Ceiba, Honduras that made me ever so thankful for the sleep liner that I wisely purchased from REI and has probably saved me from a variety of diseases, both known to man and those that have yet to be discovered, sleep, however, has still been found in all of these various conditions and for that there is proof that miracles exist. The roommates that I have shared sleeping spaces with inside various dorm room hostels is another dangerous game, quite possibly even more dangerous and always carries with it stories that you would never hear of on a regular basis back home. The night that sticks out above all of the others in the past 158 nights, was when I was laying in bed attempting to fall asleep, and another backpacker in the bunk adjacent to mine thought it would be a great idea to bring back not one, but three local prostitutes. Mortified and exhausted, I rolled up even that much tighter under my sheet after expressing to him my frustrations for his actions, but thankfully this guy was declined because of his lack of funds and the three girls left. Thanks God for this because I really didn't feel like unknowingly awaking to an unwelcome bedmate in my unconscious state with missing belongings or even worse laying in a bathtub full of ice with missing kidneys. These are just some of the insane things that I have witnessed, and the sadness of the conditions that is socially acceptable. But, even as sad as this is, it still occurs in places outside of Central America, as I have seen it even during my travels to Sydney, Australia two years ago while visiting just walking around the street being propositioned on busy downtown blocks, as well as spotting these women numerous times on Colfax, just blocks from my old office in Denver. But, above all, the most annoying nonsensical and absolutely irritating noise of the Latin American form of advertising that is used throughout each of the countries I have visited thus far and has got to be one of my favorites points to knock on. You can begin hearing the noise blocks away and if you have the unfortunate timing of having a visual of your target, it is already too late my friend, because the massive speakers that are bungeed in the back of the truck bed generated distorted ramblings by the insane decibel level of the music or talking, or often both, as bystanders cover their ears from the advertising pitch that is being screamed at them while bleeding ears hemorrhaged out what is left. I want to know who first introduced this as an effective method for advertising, and give them a solid slap them to the face. While, these are just some of the obstacles that you learn to live with and accept, especially after growing up in the safety of the suburbs in Westminster, Colorado, I still would never change what I have experienced and the decision I have made to lead a life that has more purpose and freedom than I could have ever imagined. I have learned that there will always be things in life that you wish you could change or make different, and while this thought can be daunting and overwhelming, I have seen that it is even the slightest things you can do that can make a difference for someone else whether you realize it at the moment it occurs or if it is something for that person to realize later on in life, and for me, that is all I can hope for with each day of my great journey.

The beauty of what I have seen and the experiences that I gain daily certainly outweighs the discomforts of what we–as Americans, have been blessed with in the prosperity of the conditions many of us have grown up with. I hope my experiences encourage you to travel and see how other people live with your own memories and feelings that are outside of television documentaries or emotional infomercials describing the poverty of areas around the world, but come and meet the people and experience the beauty of their culture and the happiness they carry on their faces even without large flat screen televisions, brand new cars, and all of the other materialistic items that we are told will bring fulfillment upon obtaining them. Ignore the idea of a status symbol that must be gained in order to feel a level of achievement in life, but live life now. Find the happiness that may be missing in your life by searching long and hard in the constant voids that you might have chased after only to be let down. I’ll continue to tell you, that the happiness and peace of mind that I have gained has been part of the reward of venturing out and taking the risk of leaving behind a life that was what many would call successful–a long standing career in broadcast television, a 2200 square foot home, carrying zero balances on my credit cards, a padded savings account, an excellent health insurance plan, and the list continues. I, however, did not want to be one of those people that had an opportunity and a dream that was given to me that I squandered and let pass me be, because I wanted to “play it safe” only to realize later in life, that this dream was meant for me, and I chose to ignore it only to regret it later when it had become a fleeting memory. For those that may have missed their opportunity to live their dream, I am doing this for you as well and that is why it is not about me, but it is about joining me–helping to make you feel as though you are right there with me on every step of this incredible life I am blessed to live, and I hope that you are motivated and encouraged to take action in your life towards a more rewarding life if you are discontent with where you are.

The few that I have told are amazed that I have spent just over $3,000 in the past five months. When I tell them of all that I have seen and done, they cannot believe that this is achievable without travel agents and clear-cut itineraries, but long-term, or short-term travel while on a budget is possible. From the beginning, arriving in Belize and spending an entire day snorkeling the reef as giant sea turtles pass within touching distance of Valentina and I, my first traveling companion from London, to hiking through underground caverns in San Iganacio that ended with cliff jumping over a waterfall, the early morning trek through the ancient Mayan site of Tikal, swimming in the crystal clear emerald pools of Semuc Champey, obtaining my open water diving certification in Utila, Honduras, traveling back across Guatemala to the serene setting of San Pedro La Laguna on Lake Atilan, exploring river caves with headlamps and candlesticks deep underground, surfing the black sand beaches of El Salvador, taking a shuttle through three countries to Nicaragua with an international traveling family, and the endless stretch of landscapes from dense jungles to oceanic views of the coastline. These are the magnificent places my eyes have witnessed along with the incredible friends and traveling families I have grown to be a part of as well. This is why I am forever grateful in risking little to have gained so much in just half a year. And, while Lonely Planet has been an excellent resource, nothing compares to throwing much of the detailed information out the window and comparing notes with other backpackers as you cross paths and intertwine between countries and overland boarder crossings for the most recent suggestions of places to visit, excursions not to miss, and introductions to new people that have welcomed one another with a growing list of acquaintances that developed into friendships. So, be not afraid to sail away from the safe harbor, but explore the endless possibilities of what life has to offer in ways that will easily change your life and perception of what is truly important regardless of where you may become permanently settled in life.

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SON, YOU'RE ABOUT AS USEFUL AS A POOPIE-FLAVORED LOLLIPOP

5/15/2012

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You don’t choose the day you enter the world and you don’t choose the day you leave. It’s what you do in between that makes all the difference. – Anita Septimus

Saturday, May 12, 2012 (DAYS 69 & 70)
My day of rest is a welcome sight as I wake up to the sun shining on my face from the slightly open window across from me. A quick glance around the room and I notice that I am the first person awake in the six-person dorm room that now consists of all guys. Prior to beginning this amazing adventure that has brought me to day number 69, I had always imagined sleeping in daily, removed from the grind of a more structured lifestyle, yet I find that not only do I have more energy and am well rested, but that I tend to begin my days with the early morning sunrise that is typically before 7am. After a quick shower I am headed down to the restaurant area of Zoola’s for my daily routine cup of complimentary coffee when I find Lindsay sitting outside her room. Debating the possibility of splurging for a notoriously rumored all-you-can-eat brunch, I am still uncertain in my decision. While contemplating my options, Michelle joins us and it is only after more than an hour of pleading and begging in a rather embarrassing manner that may have involved tears and blackmail, I am finally invited to join the Canadians for brunch. Score another one for Team Merica.

As we are leaving the hostel, my swagger is noticeably strong as I have a girl on each arm while wearing my extremely soft purple fur coat with matching crocodile leather boots, a gleaming diamond-studded glass cane is permanently fixated in my right hand careful not to distract from the numerous oversized platinum rings on each of my ten digits, and as I walk with a jaw-dropping limp I smile as we exit exposing my 24-carat gold grill that completes the ensemble, and, in our nonchalant method of exiting there seems to be unnecessary attention directed towards us and this of course causes the only guy from Brooklyn worthy enough to receive an invite to our morning feast. I might have exaggerated just a little. Forgive me, but I actually think it was snakeskin leather boots not crocodile. Apologies, I know I can be a bit of a storyteller. I just hope you don’t think too poorly of my character for that miniscule oversight. And, despite what you may think, the photo is not an accurate depiction of my memory frozen forever in time, but since I am an expert in Photoshop I didn't want to appear deceptive.

Walking the narrow streets that are more like alleyways, we are forced in to a single-file line as half a dozen horses swing around the corner and, I cannot help but laugh at the unique situations I experience on a daily basis. Gorging ourselves in true North American fashion, we have hidden our gluttony in the back patio of El Barrio that will forever be our place of shame. Unable to move from the most delicious breakfast I have had thus far, James and I still cannot believe that the five-star buffet was only Q40 ($5). I can truthfully say I have never experienced a better quality of an all-you-can-eat meal for the price. A close-second would have to be a meal I shared with the guys at Golden Corral before I left, where I think I only had explosive diarrhea eight or nine times that afternoon, not including the evening or late-night sessions. Thanks again to Mr. Kristopher Tuller, Jeremy Vlad, and Milk Chocolate for a day that my bowels will never forget.

My day of rest continues poolside digesting our expansive meal that would have any fat kid green with envy. The four of us spread out around the edge of the pool as a clear panoramic view of the volcanic mountains on the other side of Lago de Atitlan is visible between bouts of sunshine through the low hanging clouds that pass over head. Our lazy afternoon of peace and tranquility creates the perfect environment for reading and intellectual conversation, that is, until a heated debate is spawned over whether Helen Keller would be the perfect candidate for Terminator 4: If I find you…I’ll murnt da durnt burnt. Before a logical conclusion could be reached, both security and the militant forces of Guatemala had to intervene to bring back civil order to the once peaceful location that precluded the shenanigans of the raucous misfit that is known as, Helen Adams Keller. Serenity now. SERENITY NOW! Pausing to calm our egos in the cool waters of the pool, a new trend is developing as naps are beginning to be the popular choice. Being a gentleman and supporter of equal opportunity for gender rights, I let Lindsay lug over the large black body pillow in the heat of the afternoon and before she has properly set it down my head has already claimed the prime real estate. You’re welcome feminists.

As night falls on San Pedro, our group begins to grow in the form of an international collectivo that has become the standard practice of my new life. We are joined by a hilarious group, all from Common Wealth countries–Canada, Australia, and of course England, that brings our energy level up for the evening after the stereotypical fancy spot of tea and before I know it we parading through the streets only to return to the place that fed us our magically delicious brunch. Man, I really hope that little green leprechaun isn’t a nasty sue-happy money grubber just looking to add to his pot of gold, otherwise I’m going directly to the black market to hire Count Chocula to take him out, just like he did that infamous tiger with his flamboyantly fancy handkerchief that will, for security reasons, continue to be nameless. Savoring the moment of a dinner that has no limitations on time and is absent of curfews or following appointments, our Saturday night has brought the quiet restaurant to life, but before the meals arrive James quiets our group with a very sincere toast to begin the night’s festivities. The dinner should be sponsored by Kleenix with the amount of tears that are produced, but I assure Lindsay and Maf that we will all be friends forever, and before you know it the entire table and then, all of San Pedro is holding hands singing the famed Vitamin-C jam, “As we go on, we remember, all the times we had together. And as our lives change, from whatever, we will still be, friends forever.” Sorry, that gets me every time.

After wiping away the dribbling snot from our faces and pull our clenched arms from around one another, we recompose ourselves and head back to Zoola’s for a good ole fashioned Saturday night movie night where we learn the five D’s of Dodgeball–dodge, duck, dip, dive, and dodge. Unfortunately members of the once-proud British Empire retire for the night leaving the majority of the faithful red, white, and blue to console one another amid two maple leafs and our quiet Dutchman, Kenneth.

Sunday, I have reached the milestone of 70 days of travel, and yet, it feels as though I’ve only been gone for a few weeks. When I look back on the past few months, I think about all that I have accomplished, the places I have been to, the friends that I have made along the way, and while the perception from this perspective is grand, I also think about where my life would be if I were unable to have the courage in taking this leap towards a life I am fortunate enough to continue to experience daily. I have never pushed myself so hard, removed myself so far from my comfort zones, and have seen that I have more within me than I could have ever imagined if I would have sided with the security of my current life for one of adventure that pushes me to the limits of the person I am sure I will become when this great journey comes to an end. However, I worry not for the day that this may happen, but continue to live within the present, because tomorrow has not happened and there is plenty to worry about today.

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SATURDAY NIGHT FIESTA

Food is our common ground, a universal experience.
— James Beard

LIFE BEST LIVED

My friends, may we never take for granted the many blessings we have in this life. Be grateful for what you have and remember, this life we live is best lived when not lived for us. — Jeremy Vlad

SON, YOU'RE ABOUT AS USEFUL AS A POOPIE-FLAVORED LOLLIPOP

You don’t choose the day you enter the world and you don’t choose the day you leave. It’s what you do in between that makes all the difference. – Anita Septimus

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© 2011-2017 of rtwexperiences.com All rights reserved unless otherwise noted.

SATURDAY NIGHT FIESTA

Food is our common ground, a universal experience. — James Beard

LIFE BEST LIVED

My friends, may we never take for granted the many blessings we have in this life. Be grateful for what you have and remember, this life we live is best lived when not lived for us. — Jeremy Vlad

SON, YOU'RE ABOUT AS USEFUL AS A POOPIE-FLAVORED LOLLIPOP

You don’t choose the day you enter the world and you don’t choose the day you leave. It’s what you do in between that makes all the difference. – Anita Septimus

About the Author

Archives

Categories

All content is © 2011-2017 of rtwexperiences.com All rights reserved unless otherwise noted.

Food is our common ground, a universal experience.
— James Beard

All content is
© 2011-2017 of rtwexperiences.com All rights reserved unless otherwise noted.