As budget backpackers, we have become accustom to slow, crammed in, uncomfortable and downright horrific modes of transportation. Not only do we choose to travel this way because it’s the affordable means of getting from point “A to “B”, but it’s also the best way to mingle with local people, see the beautiful landscapes and have memorable experiences along the way. What’s that old saying?…”it’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey”. Well, let me tell you, we’ve had some very long and interesting journeys during our travels. Some of them good, some of them bad and some of them very, very uncomfortable! We’ve been in every mode of local transportation you can imagine.
Here are some photos of the unique and sometimes sketchy transport we’ve found ourselves in.
If nothing else, these odd forms of transportation make for a good laugh and a story around a hostel dinner table! Every traveler we’ve met has had some sort of interesting tale of transportation from abroad.
Have you found yourself in any hilarious contraptions considered to be modes of transportation? If so, please tell us about it below!
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A few means of transport may be too rugged, such as hitch-hiking or riding on top of the bus, (read that as I am a bit of a coward) for this senior citizen, but riding the camels for four days sounds thrilling. How did you arrange that and would you recommend it/do it again?
We would definitely recommend the camel safari! It still remains as one of our favorite travel experiences. If you’re planning to go to Jaisalmer (or any place that is famous for camel rides) it will be very easy to set up. Most hotels and guest houses in the area will have tours. We recommend going with just a couple people, not a group. It makes it easier to talk to and learn from your guide! Good luck and enjoy!
Whats the best, fastest, and most economic way to get around in a city relatively small but always busy and lively and crammed like Beirut?
In Beirut we did a lot of walking. Walking is the best way to see everything…and not miss out on anything! But, if you need to go longer distances, then taking a local bus or mode of transportation like a rickshaw (in India or Asia) is a good idea. You could also rent a bicycle in other cities, navigating through the traffic is always fun 🙂
Cheers.
Love the website, and what do you think is the coolest way to travel across water?
Local boats 🙂
I think the sketchiest ride I’ve been on was from Tijuana to Rosarito. A couple in a pickup picked me up and there wasn’t room for me in the cab so I had to ride on the back, which would’ve been easy enough if there had been a bed. I ended up clinging to the frame for dear life but it was better than walking through the desert.
Much better than being in the desert!