Who?

My name is Jordan. I’m a proud member of a loving family. I have many great friends and a girlfriend, all of whom I care for dearly.


I live a structured, secure life. Growing up I knew if I worked hard enough I would graduate high school, attend university, have a family, and provide for them like my parents did for me. Obviously I cannot predict the future, but I know I am fortunate to have been brought up in a household that gives me the opportunity to lead a happy, prosperous life. I consider myself very lucky.


I plan to pursue a law and/or business career after graduation, not necessarily because I love either, but more as a result of their credibility as successful career models. Some would call this conformity, others would call it predictably boring, but I call it structure and security.


Its this structure, family and friends that I will leave behind when I embark on the journey of my life. A journey around the world. As cliché as it sounds, its true. The comfort of home (financially and socially) will be replaced by the uncertainty, impulsiveness and unpredictability of traveling. The absence of the things I take for granted (the aforementioned) will force me to appreciate what I have. As Joni Mitchell once eloquently put, 'You don't know what you've got till its gone.’ This essentially leads into the next category. ‘What?’


Source:

• Picture: http://www.aishcampus.ca/uploads/images/toronto.jpg

What?

My trip around the world is more about discovery, independence and appreciation than about sightseeing or touring. I will travel by myself to different countries and temporarily reside in one central location within each, for an extended period of time. The length of time I plan to spend in each country varies from one to three months, with a lot of flexibility. At the same time, I hope to find work locally in order to help finance the trip. This will help me integrate into local society. 

The tourist side of me will visit popular sites, cities and attractions in the surrounding area of each of my destinations. This regional traveling/ site seeing will be done during my free time from the jobs I will hopefully be holding within each visited country.

I will have a vague time frame for the length of my stay in each country. If I decide to quit a job, travel to another country and look for a new job, I will have the freedom to do so. At any moment I will be able to leave or extend my time living in each location. My stops in order will be Europe, Middle East, Asia, Oceania, Africa, South America and finally the United States, before I return home to Toronto. I will have traveled the world in a counter clockwise motion, living in 6 of the 7 continents.


Source:

• Picture: http://www.travelportal.info/general-travel-info/maps-route-planners/maps

Why?

Why trade everything you love, care for and appreciate for the uncertainty, impulsiveness and unpredictability of traveling? Because people, in specific myself, often get caught up in their monotonous lives. The uniformity of daily routine starts to wear one down. Living in a world with so much diversity (culturally, physically and naturally) it is a sin not to experience everything that the planet has to offer.


Life is a beautiful thing. To live it narrow mindedly is a waste of the precious time we have on earth. Living and traveling around the world is the best way take advantage of it.


My trip around the world is designed to make me live from different perspectives. I want see new sights, meet new people, eat new foods, and gain new experiences. In doing so I hope to enlighten myself and become more appreciative of everything I oft take for granted.


Source:

• Picture: http-//brandstrategy.files.wordpress.com/2008/09/world-in-black-and-white-hands-1

Where?

Part of the challenge of finding good places to live within each continent has to do with language barriers, proximity to tourist attractions, cost of living and job opportunities. Locations that can fulfill all four components are viable options to live, work and tour.


The problem with planning a trip over two and a half years in advance is that it is nearly impossible to find accommodation and job opportunities. In the slight chance that arrangements can be made, they will almost surely fall through. A lot will change in over two years, and during the course of the trip, as this adventure is designed to have minimal structure. Finding rental apartments, jobs and transportation will be sorted out closer to my date of departure, or upon arrival at each location.


In addition, working out job opportunities and places to live last minute will only add to my experience and make my trip more memorable. I’m not interested in being homeless, but what I am interested in, is an adventure.


Source:

• Picture: http://articles.theglobalguru.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/Greece06-36.JPG

When?

The context of this trip in my life is vital. During my final year of undergraduate studies, I will have applied for law school and if accepted, will defer a year.

After finishing my final undergraduate exams, I plan to spend all of May 2013 making last minute preparations for my trip. I will look into lodging, transportation and job opportunities at this time.

The trip is planned to last from June 2013 until May 2014. These dates provide a general guideline but are not written in stone. If I decide to come home early or travel a couple months longer, I can do so. The only time restriction I have is that I must return home before September 2014, when I plan to start my first year of law school.

This trip will be a great break from reality. After finishing four years of university filled hard work and stress, I will be in need of time off. On this journey I will have little to no responsibilities, other than survival. Knowing that after my trip I will be starting law school and soon entering the ‘real world’ will force me to cherish my time traveling. This trip will surely be one of my last chances for complete freedom and autonomy, in a life so chained down with structure and routine. 


Source:

• Picture: http://www.k12alerts.com/main/imagemanager/img/221/graduation%20cap%20in%20air.jpg

How?

The intention of working while I’m traveling is to help pay for associated trip costs. These jobs will be the primary source of funding for lodging, transportation, food, etc during my travels. Throughout high school and university I have been saving money for this trip. This sum of about ten thousand dollars, will be used as a source of reserve funds, for whatever the need may be. If I struggle to find employment abroad, I will use this money.

I plan to spend as little as possible to ensure the nomadic feel. Having said this, cost is not a deciding factor. My jobs abroad, reserve funds, and nervous parents will guarantee economic security.

My method of transportation from Toronto to the first stop of my journey (London, England) will be by plane. Other than this flight, it will be my intention to find the cheapest forms of transportation from one destination to another. Whether it be by train, hitchhiking, boat, etc, I will aim to spend the least amount of money possible to get around. 

The next how, which often gets overlooked, is very relevant for a closely knit family like mine. How will my parents allow me to leave home and travel the world with little direction or agenda? My response to this will be that both my mother and father spent time backpacking through Europe at the tender age of 17. So, as a 22 year old I will be more than capable.


Source:

• Picture: http://www.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/940731/2/istockphoto_940731-canadian-dollars.jpg

Stop 1: London, England (June 2013 - August 2013)

I will use online travel agencies to find flights from Toronto to London, closer to my time of departure. Ideal cost would be less than $500. As a world renowned city, London will be a great place to start my trip. With culture similar to that of Canada (after all Canada was a former colony of Britain's), starting my trip in London will help acclimatize myself for the rest of the trip. I plan to search for a job upon arrival in London. I'm not worried about finding work, due to the similarities and good reputation of Canadians in Britain. Minimum Wage in Britain is (8.2 CAD/hr) x 8 hrs/day x 5 days/wk = $328/wk. I plan to live in shared flats, which are cheaper and more economical than hotels or rented apartments; especially since I plan on staying for an extended period of time. 

Some Things to Do:

• Premier League Soccer Match - a dream in itself since childhood, soccer defines British culture
• Double Decker Bus Tour - a staple for all tourists in London
• City of London Festival - held in June; British music, art and dance 
• Queens' Birthday at Buckingham Palace - the parade is a national holiday celebrated in June
• Wimbledon Tennis Match - late June to early July; one of the four grand slam tennis tournaments 

Sources:

• Picture: http://www.photography-match.com/views/images/gallery/Tower_Bridge_at_Night_London_England.jpg
• Shared Flats:  http://www.flat-share.com/index.php 
• Minimum Wage:  http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/DG_178175 
• Currency Converter:  http://www.xe.com/ucc/convert.cgi?Amount=5.93&From=EUR&To=CAD   

Stop 2: Jerusalem, Israel (September 2013 - November 2013)

Having been to Israel three times throughout my life, I feel very comfortable in this country. On top of this I am semi-fluent in Hebrew, which will make my experience easier. My other trips were each only 2 weeks in duration. Therefore by staying three months, and hopefully holding a job I will be able to integrate into local society. For such a small country, Israel has endless historical, natural and technological wonders. As far as lodging goes, I plan to find accommodation and a job upon arrival. My aunt lives in Jerusalem, and will be there if I happen to need anything. As far as work goes the minimum wage in Israel is 1289.32 CAD/month, which should be enough to support myself. 

Some Things to Do:

• Tel Aviv - Israel's largest city; beautiful beaches, vibrant night life and stunning architecture
• Eilat - Israel's southernmost city; home to many resorts, a large boardwalk and thriving markets
• Maccabi Tel Aviv Basketball game - 5x Euroleague champions; former team of current NBA stars Anthony Parker and Omri Casspi 
• The Dead Sea - the lowest point on earth; water is so highly concentrated with salt that one cannot submerge; one of Israel's most popular tourist attractions
• Mount Masada - a famous ancient fortification is housed on top of this natural wonder
• The Wailing Wall - most holy religious site for Jews; apex of pilgrimage for over 3000 years

Sources:

• Picture: http-//www.magpro.org/photos/20050228-0524_IIPEE/WebGallery_Highlights_of_Highlights_of_Highlights/images/20050430_324_Israel_Jerusalem_Old_City_003_Wailing_Wall_(Kotel)
• Currency Converter: http://www.xe.com/ucc/convert.cgi?Amount=5.93&From=EUR&To=CAD
• Minimum Wage: http://www.globes.co.il/serveen/globes/docview.asp?did=1000561295&fid=1725

Stop 3: Jakarta, Indonesia (December 2013)

Since tourists from Western countries only have a 60 day travel visa, I will play it safe and limit my stay to 30 days. Since the Indonesian currency (Rupiah) is so highly inflated, the value of each Rupiah is very low in comparison to the CAD. This makes it very inexpensive for North Americans to live here. Of all the destinations to date, I would feel the least secure in Jakarta due to its high crime rates and locals’ inaccessibility to English. Therefore it could be difficult to find lodging and a job in Jakarta. As a result I have my accommodation planned in advance. I will stay at the Taman Rasuna Apartment for only 515 CAD/month. And due to the unlikelihood of finding a job, I plan to relax and travel around Indonesia for the month. 

Some Things to Do:

• Kalimantan Island - worlds second largest island, has beautiful vast beaches
• Sulawesi Island - diverse natural beauty (mountains, beaches, lakes)
• Yogakartas - Indonesia's most cultured city
• Sumatra Island - known for its pretty beaches and rich wildlife
• Bali International Jazz Festival - held in December, display of Indonesian music
• Borobudur Sunrise - ritual to watch the awe-inspiring sunrise

Sources:

• Picture: http://www.bestholidaydestinations.net/category/asian-holiday-destinations/
• Lodging Rates: http://www.ciptanuansa.com/rental%20price%20list.htm
• Currency Converter: http://www.xe.com/ucc/convert.cgi?Amount=4500000&From=IDR&To=CAD&image.x=0&image.y=0&image=Submit

Stop 4: Sydney, Australia (January 2014 – February 2014)

Australia, an English speaking country, will be a lot more welcoming for a North American tourist like myself. It will therefore be much easier to find a job and accommodation in the Land Down Under, due to my proficiency in English. Both will be sorted out upon arrival in Australia. Australia, a hot spot for North American tourists, will be an easy place to meet people. 

Some Things to Do:

• Great Barrier Reef - worlds largest coral reef; one of the seven wonders of the world
• Australian Open Tennis - held every January, as a sporting fanatic I will thoroughly enjoy this
• The Great Ocean Road - overlooks the breathtaking scenery of the Australian coastline
• Uluru-Tjuta National Park - displays the natural beauty of Australia's heartland desert
• Tasmania - known as the 'island of inspiration', the name speaks for itself
• Australia Day - January 26th, should be a crazy party

Sources:

• Picture: http://www.google.ca/imgres?imgurl=http://www.chinatownconnection.com/images/sydneyaustralia.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.chinatownconnection.com/sydney-australia.htm&usg=__OIkqO14enctUY8GMCBXzIn13UoM=&h=334&w=454&sz=50&hl=en&start=0&zoom=1&tbnid=Bdwcbxs3lVWW0M:&tbnh=136&tbnw=171&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dsydney%2Baustralia%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26safe%3Doff%26sa%3DN%26biw%3D1259%26bih%3D601%26tbs%3Disch:1&um=1&itbs=1&iact=hc&vpx=296&vpy=115&dur=331&hovh=192&hovw=262&tx=128&ty=109&ei=S__rTMCTL8mecb6P-fwO&oei=S__rTMCTL8mecb6P-fwO&esq=1&page=1&ndsp=16&ved=1t:429,r:1,s:0

Stop 5: Cape Town, South Africa (March 2014)

Like Australia, South Africa will be an easy transition for me as a North American tourist. This is due to the fact that English is South Africa's most commonly spoken language. Jobs and accommodation will be searched for upon arrival. South Africa is a great contrast between the developed world and the third world. Even though I plan to live in Cape Town, a beautifully developed city, I plan to see the natural beauty and under-development of the Rainbow Nation. In looking at all aspects of South African culture I should experience diversified travel, and live the most accurate representation of South African life. 

Some Things to Do:

• Kruger National Park - experience South Africa's natural beauty with a safari
• Durban - largest city on the east coast of South Africa, beautiful beaches 
• Winelands - get a 'taste' of South Africa
• Basotho Cultural Village - experience traditional African culture 
• Cape Town Festival - listen to popular African music

Sources:

• Picture: http://www.picturesdepot.com/places/208668/cape+town.html

Stop 6: Rio De Janeiro, Brazil (April 2014)

Brazil is a great combination of culture, urbanism and natural beauty. However, Brazil, in specific Rio De Janeiro, is known for its poverty and crime, most notably in its shantytowns called favelas. As a result, I plan to tour these locales in order to get a well rounded, unbiased experience of Brazil. But, I will do so at a distance and in the safest way possible. Since English is not widely spoken in Brazil, I expect for it to be slightly difficult to find a job, but will attempt to do so upon arrival. 

Some Things to Do:

• Christ the Redeemer Statue - world famous monument, symbolizes Brazil
• Harbor of Rio De Janeiro - one of the seven wonders of the world
• Iguaçu Falls - beautiful waterfall, most famous in South America
• Sao Paulo - Brazil's largest city, vibrant nightlife
• Amazon Rainforest - the worlds largest rainforest, a symbol of Brazil
• Rocinha/Cingapura Favela’s - Brazil's largest favelas, encapsulates true Brazilian culture

Sources:

• Picture: http://imgsrv3.perfspot.com/pics/f/dh/ac/5c63d9fe-c6aa-4f5f-ad80-f2b05f9f1012.jpg

Stop 7: Los Angeles, USA (May 2014)

The last stop of my journey will be in Los Angeles. After a long, eye-opening trip, I expect to be psychologically exhausted. Coming back to North America after a year long escapade will be a relief to say the least. Finding a job and accommodation should not be a problem considering I’m North American, speak English and have family in the Los Angeles area (who could support me if need be). 

Some Things to Do:

• California Mission Trail - learn about this historical site
• Golden Gate Bridge - experience the architectural marvel
• Alcatraz - witness America's most famous jail
• Hollywood - epitomizes American culture
• Yosemite National Park -  famous for its waterfalls and rock climbing
• Joshua Tree - landmark natural site

Sources:

• Picture:  http://www.teambuildinginc.com/images_cities/LosAngeles.jpg

The Bottom Line

My dream vacation differs from most in that I want to travel in the most non-institutionalized way possible. For me, tourism equals for freedom. The places I live, work, tour and methods of transportation are all subject to change. The destinations and dates mentioned are only loose guidelines. My primary intention is for this trip to be an adventure with minimal structure. I don't want to put myself in vulnerable situations, but at the same time I want to live spontaneously. I want to make decisions in the moment. Over-planning defeats the whole purpose. My greatest challenge on this journey will be to push myself so I don't fall victim to the temptations of structure.

In all, after a year long adventure, the structure and normalcy that I decided to run away from, will likely be the very thing I miss the most about home. Returning home for the start of the summer will be perfect timing. It will give me the opportunity to ease back into my regular life, before I start the first chapter of adulthood; Law school.  This journey will surely be a 'dream vacation' in every sense. It will never be forgotten. When I'm old and stuck at an office desk, feeling suppressed by routine, I will think back to this trip and will appreciate how lucky I am. I'm fortunate to have been able to embark on such an adventure, and am lucky to have structure and security in my life, which I so often take for granted.