I was talking to a friend recently. I told her I was getting ready and preparing. When she heard that I had ALREADY mapped out my route, written down emergency numbers, scoured tons of websites, and read up on various force majeure situations and how to handle them... she said that NONE of our friends who have traveled or are planning to travel have prepared like that. They think the best vacation is improvisation and that everything was fine without such thorough preparation.

But I think the best improvisation is a well-rehearsed one. Or am I wrong? I actually enjoy preparing for a trip like this, reading and thinking... And I'm absolutely sure that a lot of things will still go differently than I planned, there will be plenty of funny situations and so on... But at least I'll be ready for some of what awaits me. After all, my parents or husband won't be there to call and say: "Pick me up, it's starting to rain." Instead, I'll know to bring an umbrella because clouds usually gather at that time. (Just to be clear, this is an abstract example. Author's note)

Anyway, I'm waiting for my interview at the consulate..)