For the last several years , I have traveled  alot.  Probably to make up for the last twenty years that I have not traveled at all.  Sometimes I travel with friends and family and sometimes I travel alone. I dont know when I became this person who could travel alone. but Ive learned how to enjoy it and make friends along the way(mostly virtual friends when I return)

I usually write  about the things Ive learned to my friends and family. People have been telling me for a while to be a travel writer, so I thought Id start out here.  Ill go anywhere that I havent been.  I always have anxiety before I go on a trip alone. Sometimes when I get to a place, I wonder what possessed me to pick this. This is the strangest place I have ever been.  But the next day, it doesnt feel so strange anymore.

I can eat anything raw.  I can go to the bathroom standing up. I am fluent in hand motions and can speak Spanish  in the present tense only..  Though directionally challenged, I can find my way  in any airport  to the gate and the luggage terminal. I must be an airport savant.  I can cram more things into a suitcase than it is supposed to hold.  If I have a few drinks, I forget that I cant speak the language of the country i am in.  I still carry travelers checks for an emergency thought no one will cash them anymore.  I make sure to learn how to say coffee with milk and no sugar  in every language.  I have accidently used tap water to brush my teeth in countries that you shouldnt and I am still here to write this. I have been to the gynecologist in Greece,  the dentist in the Kyushu Islands in Japan and the emergency room in Edinburgh twice ( that trip was with my kids).  Heels are my walking shoe of choice. (though I always have the appropriate shoes with me in case I need them)  Ive perfected speed shopping and no matter how many bracelets i buy as gifts, it is never enough. Im afraid on small planes.  I always have another trip planned (even if it is just in my head) before I return from the one I am on.   Those are my credentials.

                                                                                                                     Fly Safe,

                                                                                                                        JAZ