And reality sets in...

So I am all packed and ready to head back to Ottawa after the holidays. I had a great time at home with the family... it was great to spend some time relaxing with the people I care about. I moved all of my stuff back home and I am going back to Ottawa with my backpack for my trip and a few pairs of jeans to wear to work. Haha, I packed my bag today and really wish that I bought a 65L but I know that once I'm on the road I'll be glad that I stuck to a smaller bag. Pretty much everything is set to go... I got all of my shots, sublet my apartment, have my tickets and travel insurance, etc, etc. I still have a bit of shopping to do but I'm sure I'll fit it in before I go. The buses are still on strike in Ottawa which is a bit of a pain in the ass but what can you do?

This week coming up should be super busy with work, New Years festivities and saying goodbye to everyone. I know its a short trip but there are definitely a lot of great people in my life who I am going to miss. I know that a lot of people probably think I am crazy for doing this but really, you only live once right?

Heading to S.A.

Hey!

So this blog will be devoted to my travelling adventures of this winter. First of all, if you are reading this I'm impressed... this part is boring so you must like me a lot to be reading about it!! So I am leaving for South America on January 5th, 2009 and flying back home on April 22nd, 2009. I am landing in Santiago Chile and plan on visiting Argentina, Chile, Peru, Ecuador, Brazil and Venezuela.

It has been a lot of work preparing to go- making housing arrangements, getting vaccines, booking tickets, etc. I have recently realized that despite the fact that I work at a backpacking store I actually own zero equipment so I have had to do a lot of shopping.

I would love any travel advice or tips from people that have been. I plan on keeping this fairly up to date while I'm away so if you are interested check back.

Chels :)