Lately I have been thinking a lot about the mistakes I've made as a traveler. The times I was overcharged for goods and didn't realize it until too late. The time the taxi drivers convinced me that it was the same price to take a taxi than a shuttle (although, this has also been true in cases). The times when you get ripped off exchanging currency. The time you got robbed stumbling drunk home (while this hasn't happened to me, you know it happens).
All I can say to you is this: read the blogs, read your guidebook. But know this. YOU WILL MAKE MISTAKES. But you'll have a blast making them.
I'm not saying don't prepare yourself, but at the same time remember most people aren't out to get you. I have been helped by incredible people. People who gave me rides, advice, and food just because it was in the goodness of their heart.
Something I realized about two or three days ago is that the journey itself is an adventure. Whether you haven't slept for 72 hours, thought all your credit and debit cards wouldn't work, and had $20 US to your name (like it was for me this morning), life can still be grand.
Even with all the mishaps, lost pesos, and misadventures you will still likely have 1000 times more fun and be quicker to laugh, than that time someone cut you off in traffic back home.
So relax. You'll make mistakes, but it'll all be worth it.
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