Dear Reader, journeys these days take just as much planning as they did in the days of Anne Radcliffe. Some lucky souls just plunge into adventure like they’re going to make it back to the Shire the next day, no need to worry about packing up, tapping their pockets or bothering about who will water the plants. Probably a remote friend, or a friendly ex, or divine providence – if one has a balcony – otherwise they’ll end up like my two lavender plants…a memory. Alas, as I digress, I shall return upon the main track and declare: I am not one of the brave Tooks or the jolly Brandybucks; I cannot simply…walk into adventure like that.
I read The Odyssey, Candide, and R. Crusoe while still impressionable, and I appreciate the importance of a plan, and the futility of it in the face of powers beyond our control. Having a destination I mind may not be enough to steer you towards it, and often you find yourself battling the waves, between one island and another. When you finally reach the end of your journey, you’re all chaffed, and puffed, dehydrated, sporting a headache, and as wilted as a badly done flower arrangement. Nowhere near the strapping young individual you were when you set off, you know, the one with dreams and energy and potential.
This means, dear Reader, that you should attempt some planning. Pack hand cream, a face mask, warm socks, noise-cancelling headphones (no need to listen to the Sirens), and have at least one bottle of water, of the 750ml variety. And this is only for the flight.
From, this, you are to surmise that it takes time, effort, means, opportunity, and the intention to accomplish the act of travelling with or without companions.
“One’s destination is never a place, but rather a new way of seeing things.”
Note to self:
You may want to cut the number of activities and places you’ve added to that daily list to 1/3. Ok, at least 1/2. I think you’ve forgotten to factor in travel time, and anticipate that being in a fast train is akin to teleporting. It isn’t. So make sure to sleep well the night before a long trip, so you can enjoy the views, and sit on the right, if you’re travelling to Kyoto from Tokyo. Blink and you’ll miss Fuji-san.
Remember that eating and digesting require some well deserved time, and it is not something you can fit on the go. First, cause walking and eating is prohibited, and second, cause you’ll miss out on how good the egg sandwiches are, if you don’t chew.
Get cash out. Get your Suica. Don’t forget your pocket wi-fi. Oh, and don’t forget to send your luggage via courier. Ok, now I’m just issuing orde-reminders. がんばって!
Fabulous blog, I can’t wait to read more!
Thank you for reading, Emily 🙂