This was my first extended trip, and I backpacked through Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua, and back again. Along the way, I improved my Spanish-speaking ability greatly, I met dozens of people from countries throughout the world, discovered my love for observing animals in the wild, dived into the world of Scuba for the first time, stayed in accommodation of varying standard, and created memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life.

This was my first experience as a backpacker. As a relative novice I made mistakes along the way, but I learned from most of them. I discovered the aspects of travel I love the most, what I liked the least, and I picked up tips on how to get around and stay safe. Most of all, it ignited a passion for exploring. This trip helped shape many future travels.

In recounting my trip, I want to emphasise the diversity of opportunities available on an extended trip such as this. I also want to highlight the most amazing thing about travel; how it can make you feel. It can inspire you, challenge you, disappoint you, and enrich your life – all in one journey.