International Travel Plans

The itch to travel has always been a part of my personality, and so too has been a tendancy to plan the associated detail.

For the past 20 years in particular, that’s meant meticulously planning many details of my overseas adventures. I’ve always been drawn to the challenge of creating the perfect itinerary, mapping out each day and anticipating potential hiccups. I really like the research aspect of travel, learning as much as I can about the activities I could participate in, and learning a few words of language (for example). I’ve never been obsessive about having a bucket list to tick-off, but I do like knowing what some of my options might be ahead of time.

The only packing mishap I can recall was forgetting a new camera on a 2008 trip—a regret that lingers even though my phone now captures all the memories I need.

Eighteen months ago, my travel plans took an unexpected turn when I had to have a lower-limb amputation. It happened after a trip to Vietnam and Cambodia with friends; an infection I picked up during the trip became serious upon my return. Though the experience was difficult, my love for travel has never waned. Even when I was in hospital (on serious pain relief) I was dreaming of new adventures.

When the serious possibility of post-COVID/post-amputation international travel started to become a reality, my initial thoughts were of nearby destinations like Japan and New Zealand. I have also spent some months researching a return trip to some of my favorite European haunts: Paris, Berlin, and Stockholm. https://jamesobrien.id.au/2024/09/travel-plans-wanderlust-and-stumpy-charting-my-european-adventure/

But then, fate intervened. A friend saw an exceptional TripADeal tour of China. I’ve been to China twice. First when my friend Kate was living and working then, and then a few years later when my friend Sue and I did a 10-day package tour. https://jamesobrien.id.au/2014/05/nexus-holidays-china-sampler/

This new itinerary is slightly shorter but significantly cheaper, even with the single supplement. https://www.tripadeal.com.au/deals/5364-incredible-china After a few days of deliberation, a couple of friends convinced me to seize the opportunity.

I feel confident I can handle the physical demands of the trip. I am also conscious of not over-taxing myself, and making sure I can take rests along the way.

Although the idea of a group tour sounds stressful, I know most of the people who do these tours are often older, and so the pace wouldn’t be as stressful as an 18-35 group tour. I know the Great Wall can be steep in sections, but I also know I can likely manage some of it at my own pace. And if I can manage it, I can still experience things at a slower pace, knowing I’ve walked the wall previously.

The familiarity of the itinerary has given me confidence to know what to expect.

But the clincher? The price: $888, all inclusive (plus $500 single supplement) which includes international flights, accommodation and lots of meals was an offer I couldn’t refuse.

So in a few months time, I’m heading back to China for the first time since 2014, retracing some familiar steps. This time, it’s less about discovery and more about rediscovering a country that has undoubtedly changed in the past decade. And maybe having a “deeper” experience at the slower pace my physical condition demands.

As always, I’m diving deep into the details. I’m researching the hotels (a couple of which I’ve stayed previously), scoping out public transportation options, and identifying potential rest stops along the way. I’m also brushing up on the nuances of modern China, like its transition to a cashless society. I’ve loaded up a travel card and established some Chinese pay services, ensuring I’m prepared for any transaction. With a local e-SIM card for my phone, I’m feeling confident and equipped for this new adventure. I already have some of my travel things packed!

This trip feels like a gateway to reigniting my passion for international travel. It’s a chance to prove to myself that I can still navigate the world, embrace new experiences, and create lasting memories, all while adapting to my new physical reality. I’m excited to see where this journey leads.