Day 1 - Travel - Devon

 Today was the easiest I think I have ever been able to wake up. The day started at 2:45 AM when I eagerly got up. I hadn’t gotten much sleep because I was too excited for the day ahead. It has been over a year since we started planning our trip.

Going back to my goals, I want to travel independently. We started our trip with a ride to YVR from some of the scout's parents. We excitedly went through security and the check in, ready to set foot in Costa Rica. It was much easier than I anticipated. All we had to do was show our passports, unload our bags, and we were ready to go! That sounds too good to be true, but honestly the experience was easy - especially with my travel experience. 

I led my troop through the airport to find our gate,and that was an enjoyable experience. 

Typically, people think airports are hard to navigate through, but this time it was enjoyable!

After that, we were on our way to Dallas for our 6 hour stop over - that’s where I am now, when I’m writing this.

I remember a year ago when we were first thinking of the idea of travel as scouts. We were considering Australia for the world jamboree being held there. We had many meetings, but we realized we would be better off planning our own trip to give back. This trip was even harder to plan and create itinerary because of scouts rules and regulations, going as a large group, and budgeting tight. The donations we received were very helpful for our trip. With our countless hours of working with companies and groups back home and endless meetings, we were able to fully plan this once in a lifetime experience.

As much work as one can put into planning, there will always be some hiccups. We had to change one of our accommodations at the last minute, changing activity plans due to a volcano eruption, then change back again, after the Volcano was deemed safe. I have learned that it’s always a good idea to have a back up plan!

-Devon