When I read about this contest via Nomadic Matt’s Twitter feed (@nomadicmatt), I was intrigued, but chicken. I mean come on, how on earth would I ever win? But, the more I’ve thought about it, the more I’ve wanted to at least try. After some family tragedies in December 2009, I vowed to stop sitting by and watching life going on around me. For years I’ve planned trips and vacations, only to get caught up in the corporate humdrum and the world’s sense of responsibility. Well, no more. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, 2010 will be my year!
Here’s the deal: Nomadic Matt and GAP Adventures are giving away a FREE 2 week trip to Costa Rica and they want to know why I want to win and what I hope to get out of it. So let’s get to it!
In 2008 I went on a 2 week backpacking trip in China. While in Xi’an I wandered through the alleys in the Islamic Quarter and found myself at the entrance to the Great Mosque. While I was there I was invited by a group of locals to sit with them. At which point they took out their cell phones and started taking my picture- it was a tad surreal. But after “photo time”, I was given what seemed like never ending cups of Jasmine Tea and stuffed steamed buns. I had no clue what they were saying and they had no clue what I was saying- but I loved it. I left that experience as a changed traveler. I was no longer interested in moving from sight to sight, I wanted more. I wanted the local experience and connection.
Costa Rica has been on my travel radar for a couple of years now, mostly due to reading blogs and flipping through photos taken by friends. I’m drawn to the lush, vibrant scenery and curious about the local culture. I want to make a connection with the country and its people. I want to understand their way of life and their history. I don’t want to change their world, but improve my own.
With my Asian trip scheduled for August 2010, a trip to Costa Rica would be a great stepping off point- not only from a personal perspective, but in terms of my blogging and photography goals. I love the person I become when I travel; I want that feeling all the time, not just once a year. Hence, Spunky Girl Monologues. This blog is my attempt to ditch the corporate humdrum, and to find a way to pursue my passions- travel, photography and history.
What if I don’t win? Then I pursue my passions and fulfill my goals for sustainable travel with a different starting point. I’m not looking for a short experience. I’m looking for a lifestyle change. I’m looking at doing my part to make this world a better place to live. 2010 will still be my year whether I go to Costa Rica or not. But going to Costa Rica would give me the inspiration and motivation I need to continue on the path I’ve set for myself and to keep myself from getting snared in the corporate humdrum.
In closing, I’d like to thank Nomadic Matt and GAP Adventures, for some much needed self reflection.
Spunky Girl Monologues 