My Asian Big Tour

In February 1999 my savings were minimal, airplane tickets to Melbourne expensive and my plans for Asian trip ambitious.

Australia was a perfect country to work and save money for further travels to more affordable destinations that I intended to explore in the following year.

During my three months in Australia, I worked for two months. I used the rest of the time to travel around the country while keeping a close eye on my budget. By camping, sharing rides, working and cooking by myself, I was able to explore Melbourne, Sydney, the Golden Coast and Alice Springs, including Ayers Rock.

This experience helped me grow fond of the Australian way of life and the opportunities the country offers. I also came to appreciate the relaxed nature of its people.

My first encounter with Asia took place on the captivating island of Bali.

In 1999, Indonesia was facing severe political and economic challenges that dissuaded many travelers. Nevertheless, the intrepid visitors were able to relish in the comforts offered at greatly reduced rates, accompanied by the warm hospitality of locals in need of financial support. I experienced a sense of freedom and tranquility.

The beautiful islands of the Philippines, the adrenaline-filled jeepney rides, the historic rice terraces, and the big Western shopping malls in Manila made a strong impression on me. They easily overshadowed any dangerous situations I faced in the south or in the capital. These were the only dangerous experiences I had in the whole Asia.

Hong Kong and China were still separated countries that couldn’t be more different in 1999. My fear of China was heightened when a consular official questioned me about my financial readiness to visit his powerful homeland.

China was gradually opening its doors to tourism, English was rarely encountered outside of a handful of tourist-oriented staff in major tourist destinations. As a result, I found it necessary to learn basic words, create a list of useful expressions and improvise in remote areas. I savored some of the most delightful dishes in the most basic dining establishments.

I couldn’t find better moment to wander around Southeast Asia. Laos and Cambodia started to open to foreigners after decades of self-isolation, internal conflicts and war.

Thailand was a destination that was both easy to navigate and budget-friendly. With persistent effort, I managed to journey to the beautiful Myanmar, where the kindness of the locals, the stunning pagodas, the spiritual Buddhist practices, and the long, difficult overnight trips left me in awe. Lastly, I encountered India, a country of stark contrasts and extraordinary cultural depth.

India, a country of stark contrasts and extraordinary cultural depth, was the last stop of my Asian Big Tour. Although I enjoyed it immensely, it often made me feel deeply saddened by the sight of so many people living in poverty or suffering from serious illnesses.

Asia is very different than Latin America, but my trip finished with similar timing and for the same reason. 15 months were enough, and I was broke.

At the end of my Asian Big Tour, my head was full of impressions, while my pockets were completely empty. Although I experienced joy in returning home, I also harbored fears about starting over and the possibility of slipping back into a tedious work routine.

Shortly thereafter, I was fortunate to receive an excellent job opportunity that arose from my proficiency in Spanish, with my experience in Latin America serving as an additional advantage. As a 28-years old young manager without any experience I was named a CEO of a power tools company in Quito, Ecuador.