These are observations in random order as they come to us throughout our 77 days of travel.

1. Don’t pack too much sh**.
2. See above.
3. If you think you want to bring that extra t-shirt, see above.
4. Bring a wine opener.
5. Ideally, pack or always have access to snacks the kids like or would at least tolerate.
6. Bring zip-lock baggies.
7. Having an open agenda is THE COOLEST way to travel.
8. Get your kids on probiotics.
9. Always have extra toilet paper on you. Don’t find out the hard way like I did.
10. Clothes can always be washed. Remind your 13-year old of this.
11. Charge your electronics overnight.
12. Make connections. Leverage them. Find a guide. Meet people.
13. Don’t bring books you think you’ll read if you’re not really a reader.
14. Never eat the lettuce unless you saw how it was washed yourself!!!
15. 36 hours on a bus is not for the faint of heart.
16. Don’t count on wifi ~ bring your Lonely Planet Guide book instead!
17. Buy insect repellent with DEET in it!!
18. Have an idea of the typical taxi cost before you get in and take the cab. I got hosed!
19. Don’t be afraid to go off the beaten path for a change. We asked our taxi driver to a recommend a restaurant and were at first terrified when he dropped us off at a cement + rebar special in the middle of nowhere. Turns out a famous fisherman namedJuan Ostros owned the place and the food was divine. Additionally, it had one of the cleanest bathrooms we’ve seen to date.
20. Always carry small bills and change!!!