Hello from Costa Rica! It’s been a busy few weeks in the A Fresh Chapter world. From a fantastic first Elemental Odyssey program where we traveled from Los Angeles to the Grand Canyon to Phoenix to site visits in Peru and Costa Rica, we have travel on the brain. Today we want to bring you a little something from one of our Alum…

International travel can be thrilling, but everything from small creature comforts to a global attitude can have a large impact on your experience. India Odyssey Alum Morgan K lays out five essentials that contributed to a pleasant experience abroad in New Delhi, India with A Fresh Chapter.

1. Aeropress Coffee Maker.

It’s cheap, small, light, unbreakable, and makes a delicious cup of coffee. For a coffee geek in a country like India (with virtually no coffee culture), bringing it along was the best packing decision I made. Plus: no electricity required.

2. Good earplugs.

I’m a light sleeper and they come in handy when trying to block out a snoring roommate, car horns, barking stray dogs, and the morning vegetable cart seller announcing the day’s vegetables.

3. Universal adapter plug.

In 2016, if I can’t get my iPhone charged everything else is a challenge.

4. Curiosity and an open mind.

Travel is all about stepping out of my typical mindset and letting go of my habits in order to see the world through a slightly different lens. Most things don’t happen according to plan, so it’s helpful to have a laid-back attitude. When I’m willing, and even enthusiastic, about trying something new – whether it’s a new food, item of clothing, or a conversation with a local – the entire experience is amplified.

5. A sense of humor.

The best travel moments always happen when I least expect them. Sure, the Taj Mahal was an amazing sight. But I’ll never forget the quirky shopkeeper in Haus Khaz, New Delhi, who sold my friend luggage while offering us one of his masala sodas as the antidote to very unpleasant Delhi belly. He made our day!

Stay tuned next week for the highlights on our recent program and updates for the adventures ahead.

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