Welcome to Around the World in Seven Questions, a series where I interview bloggers from around the globe about their travel aspirations and inspiration! Today’s featured blogger is Maggie, from Dakota Gypsy.
Tell us about yourself! How did you get started traveling?
My parents were in the US military so I was actually born in Japan and had my first passport at just a few weeks old. We also lived in England for three years. I’ve taken a lot of road trips through the US and Canada, and I’m currently backpacking solo in South America for 3 ½ months.
What is your favourite destination, and why?
Of the places I’ve been, I think Colombia is my favourite so far. There are so many misconceptions about it being dangerous or third-world, but I found it to be beautiful and welcoming, and I had an amazing time. I will definitely go back.
What is your ultimate travel destination? Have you been there, or do you have plans to go there anytime soon?
I’m not sure I really have one! I guess I’m kind of a weird traveler in that I don’t really care too much about what I see, as long as it’s something new and different! Some places on my list for the future are Eastern Europe and Russia.
What is the craziest travel-related thing you have ever done?
Oh, definitely caving in Colombia. It was so scary. It was dark and I had to swim underwater through muddy water with just a rope to guide me through parts of it. It was the only time that I actually froze in my tracks and thought, “I can’t do this.” I would have turned back but luckily I had a really patient guide who talked me through it, and it ended up being a lot of fun and a big self confidence boost.
Do you prefer to travel solo, or with someone? why?
I prefer to travel by myself. I feel like I meet more people that way. People see me alone and invite me to hang out with them, whether it’s locals or other travelers. I don’t think this happens as much when you’re traveling with friends or a significant other.
If you travel with friends, do you think your friendship is stronger for that reason?
I don’t travel with my friends, but a lot of my friends travel solo, and I think our friendships are stronger because we encourage each other. One of my best friends has been all over the world by herself and she has been a huge support for me on my first big solo backpacking trip – we chat a lot and she gives me advice and is just generally a listening ear when I need to talk to someone.
What’s on your travel agenda for this year?
I’ve got two more months here in South America before heading back home to Oregon. I’m hoping to make it to Alaska this summer because then I’ll have been to all 50 states! And I’m planning a trip for this fall but I haven’t decided where I’m going yet. Maybe South Korea.
You can follow Maggie on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest. She’s also on Snapchat @dakotagypsy. Thanks for sharing, Maggie! Do you want to be a featured blogger? Email Sarah for details!