[Travelandtourism] Traveling Light

[Trevor Attenberg]

Hi T&T gang,

I wanted to share an article that talks about low tech travel, obviously
intended for fully sighted individuals.

http://www.lonelyplanet.com/themes/gear-and-tech/how-to-go-off-the-grid-when
-you-travel/?affil=EML_EDITORIALNEWS_53

Over the past couple of years I’ve gotten quite used to carrying my laptop
and cell phone with me when I travel. The IPhone I purchased in 2012 has
been very convenient, allowing me to find  restaurants and other businesses
I would otherwise need another person just to know about. Now a days I am
worried that I’ve become too attached to these items. Would I be able to
function properly without these items? Obviously I would be asking more
questions to actual people. 

An additional fact is I cannot use regular maps, and I cannot at this time
expect to barge into an internet café and use any old computer if I want to
get on line—not that I should need to while on a relaxing voyage. Also I
will “need” reading materials, and this will mean a bulky Braille book—maybe
one—and probably some device to carry and play audio files, text files  or
the like. All electronics need either a battery supply or adapters for
recharging, and probably a converter for local power outlets. This has
always been an issue for me when traveling for more than a few days.

                Indeed there seems to be some unique constraints on a blind
person’s ability to go off the grid as it were. It’s nice to see that tools
are getting smaller and more integrated, but this seems to be coinciding
with a rise in demand for digital traveling companions.

But I fancy the thought of putting all this stuff behind me for a while, and
maybe go unplugged somehow for an extensive period of time. Outside of a
camping trip perhaps, it is a little difficult to picture it. It seems like
a good idea for one to anticipate not being able to access these modern
conveniences while on the road. What’s the backup plan? Of course I’m kind
of talking about solo travel.

I suppose I don’t have a real question in this message; just some thoughts
for you savvy travelers that might be of interest.

Be well,

Trevor A