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Finance

We have been asked over and over, "but how can you guys afford to travel for so long?" The answer is simple; it's basically about setting your priorities. Most of the people we know would be able to travel for extended periods of time if they really wanted and if they made it a priority.

Making the choice to travel and leave behind the perceived world of stability and predictability is not an easy task and is therefore often masked with the excuse of financial inability. It's a quick answer allowing individuals to dismiss the realm of possibilities lest they allow themselves to pursue their dreams.

To us, world travel is more important than living in a large house furnished with the trendiest stylish decor or driving the newest model vehicle or wearing designer clothes or dining in the finest establishments or partying away life while consuming copious amounts of alcohol. Conscientious decisions, goals and sacrifices certainly need to be made.

Of course the type of travel also plays a large role. Most people assume travel to by synonymous with vacations. Unless you are independently wealthy, this assumption could not be further from the truth. A vacation is what most have adopted as their short lived break away from the monotony of their daily routines. During a vacation you can afford to pamper yourself. A vacation is about luxury. Stay in five star hotels. Indulge in the finest foods. Find yourself at the bar at nine in the morning. Money rapidly evaporates.

Travel is different. The most rewarding travel is accomplished by submersing yourself into the local culture. Get to know the people. Live with the people. Eat with the people. The majority of the world is significantly less expensive to live in than North America, so your dollar will go a long way and your experiences will be unique and remain with you forever.