Taking Beds For Granted.

Friends and Family;

I wanted to address a topic that had been closer to my heart ever since I started my trip in South America.

I have found in my trip that it’s the little things that count. Take a look at this list:

• Hot water
• Internet
• Cell phones
• Cell phone chargers
• Public transportation
• Towels
• A bed

The presence of any or all of these things can make or break a trip for some people.  I met four people travelling together that refused to stay in a hotel on account of a light flickering too much.  It just seemed so petty to me.  It can be difficult for some people to comprehend my method of travel; I brought no device with ready access to Wi-Fi, nor did I bring a computer despite my dedication to blogging during the trip.  The most common reaction I get when people learn this is one of confusion, rarely (but I am sometimes pleasently surprised) do I get one of respect. I’ve met one other traveller that did the same thing.  After this trip, I don’t think I will travel any other way.

And now, to the point of this blog. The last bullet point above is something I’d never even thought about, despite the presence of many homeless people in the areas I’ve visited. I shall never take a bed again for granted. You see, last night I slept on a park bench.  Despite the fact that it was only for two hours of sleep, and after my night bus from Cochabamba, it was still a kind of reality shock. I spent the hour after my arrival looking for a place to crash, but everywhere was closed and not answering the doorbell.  The one spot that was open was charging twice my daily budget.

I have an new appreciation for beds, and the comfort and security they offer.  Please, never take your bed for granted.