Proven Overland Magazine Issue One | Page 24

Would you recommend this trip to our readers? [Ernesto] Yes, definitely! We can say, without any doubts, that our overland trip IS the best thing we've done in our lives. This trip represents for us the quintessential definition of freedom. Somehow the world becomes a lot bigger as we realize how little we know about it. But at the same time it also becomes a lot easier to get out there and discover it. Anyone who dreams about hitting the road to do an overland trip can do it. Go for it! [Taisa] Absolutely! People have shown us so much warmth and generosity. So far, the food has been delicious, the na- ture diverse and the celebrations big and colorful. We believe that a lot of the mag- ical and humbling stuff happens when you make this kind of life change. Go see the world! What's one piece of advice you guys would give to someone who is planning a similar trip? [Ernesto] There're a million ways to travel overland. Some people do it on bi- cycles, others in motorcycles, vans of all sizes, 4x4s, sedans, unimogs, school bus- es, etc. There's no such thing as the per- fect overland vehicle. Make sure you en- vision the trip the way you want to do it, doing the things that you like to do. This will help you make the right decisions while outfitting your rig and purchasing your gear. If possible do not constrain yourself with itineraries. We’ve learned that planning as we go is the best way to travel, for us at least. There are lots of amazing places that are not mentioned in travel books and that ended up being hidden gems for us. You're about to embark on a life changing experience. As our friends of Life Remote- ly taught us – make sure you ease into it. Test your gear, go out on weekend trips as often as you can. Start traveling slow so you can adjust to this new lifestyle so you don't get burnt out. Ok, I guess that was more than one piece of advice. ;) [Taisa] Pack a lot of underwear and keep granola bars up front to stave away han- griness. Haha, I learned these key tips from our wise friends from Desk To Glory! Find the beauty, learn about the history and culture, step out of your comfort zone and mingle with the locals. Those are the moments that have deepened our experi- ence and understanding. Recognize that the trip starts before the trip. Your friends and family go along with you in spirit. I try to thank them often for their support and patience. Be kind to yourself and stay focused on your depar- ture. Leaving was the hardest part for us. Get excited about your freedom, once you are on the road, you can make every day Saturday! Ernesto and Taisa OverlandTheAmericas.com Instagram - @overlandtheamericas