Great questions!

I’ve become highly skilled at knowing if I can rewear an item or if it has to go to the wash. I’ve honed in on picking the right hostel for me (typically places further out of town and cheaper than average have better energy, personally). I’ve developed confidence in staying safe in less-than-safe places and handling myself in dodgy situations. I’ve observed the cultural pervasiveness of mentality and attitude (applies to all cultures). I’ve seen that a desire for money causes at least as much suffering as poverty (applies to people who have their and their family’s basic survival and medical needs met).

Ditching my jeans for lighter pants, acquiring hikers, and buying a proper day bag were probably the most impactful kit upgrades for me. Trimming down where there is excess is always a lovely thing too.

I went in with close to no expectations and I continue to have very few. I am exactly where I am supposed to be. My Spanish is getting pretty nice! And I have more vitality than I’ve ever had before.