Welcome to our newsletter for June. Topic is traveling - backpacking.

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What's the difference between a backpacker and a tourist?

Tourists tend to travel in large groups, go on guided tours, and get around by a chartered bus.

A backpacker doesn't, they travel independently, use public transport, and stay at low budget accommodations.

The term "Backpacker," derived from the backpack. These are popular among travelers because you can carry a lot and you keep your hands free.

Tourists tend to take suitcases.  These are bulky, and a real pain trying to get on a crowded bus.

No matter if you're rich or poor, it is now possible for anyone to see the world.

Click here to watch video about backpacking in Australia.

Click here to watch video about backpacking in America.

Click here to watch video about backpacking in Europe.

Click here to watch video about backpacking in Asia.

Traveling to different countries and cultures, goes back to the time of the explorers. People such as Sir Samuel Baker, explored most of Africa in the 19th century.

The invention of steam powered ships, known as Steamers, increased tourism. Even though this was mainly for the rich, immigration also increased for the working class.

Click here to watch video.

A hobo is a person who travels from one place to another.  A hobo doesn't have a stable life, job or home, and lives a life on the road.

During the Great Depression, finding transportation from one place to another was costly. Many transients would sneak onto a freight train and travel for free. Click here to watch video.

Backpacking is similar, trying to get around the cheapest way possible.

In the 60's and 70's, the hippie movement began. People started to live an unconventional life, not wanting to work and wanting to live freely. They wanted to travel, but were not rich enough to stay in hotels, which were expensive.  So, they looked for ways to travel on a tight budget. Click here to watch video.

With the development of the airplane, people were traveling more frequently. Click here to watch video.

Now with the new Airbus double story plane, flights are becoming cheaper and cheaper. Click here to watch video.

Hostels: backpackers don't stay at expensive hotels, but prefer dormitory accommodations.

Hostels will have a communal kitchen, so you can cook your own meals and save money.

In some places in South America , the locals will hitchhike by getting a free ride from trucks. Part of the experience is to travel the same way as the locals.

Also when traveling over water, you will see and experience more.

Tuk-Tuks: also known as rickshaws, are the most popular transport.  They are cheaper than a taxi and quicker than a bus. Common in Asia, they have become so popular with foreigners that you can now find them in Holland .

Guide books are a backpacker's best friend, they help you find the hostel, get from one place to another, and provide tips on how to be safe.

The one thing people enjoy most about backpacking is the people they meet. Even if you travel alone you can make new friends.

Volunteering has become popular because of the satisfaction of making a difference.

On a shoe string

To see and do many things while traveling, you will need to keep to a budget.

"I will see Europe on a shoe string." To travel around Europe and only pay for the things I need and live the cheapest way possible.

Power converter: your electrical appliances are not going to match, the outlet will be different in other countries. This is very handy to bring.

LED headlamp: useful for going inside caves, but late at night when you want to read a book in the hostel, you won't disturb other people sleeping.

Passport holders: this attaches around your neck, so when boarding the plane you won't accidentally leave it behind.

Sleeping bag: hostels will supply bed sheets, but you never know where you might have to sleep next.

Space Bags: if you need to take a lot clothes, you suck the air out with a vacuum cleaner and create more space in your luggage.

Swiss Army Knife: small, compact and very useful. This will come in handy, for everything from cutting your finger nails to opening bottles.

Toiletry bag: for all your personal needs, such as shampoo and soap. This keeps everything organized and compact.

Security belt: don't carry your money around in your pocket. This goes under your clothes so thieves won't steal it from you.

Day bag: when settled into your hostel, bring a smaller bag for sight seeing.

First-Aid kit: you should bring this just in case you have an accident.

Cargo pants: originally worn by soldiers, people prefer to wear this for comfort and usefulness.

Thermal: keep your tea, coffee or soup warm.

Hydration pack and reservoir: rather than carrying a plastic bottle everywhere around with you, this stores water in the bag with a small hose to drink and walk.

"When in Rome , do as the Romans do."

This means to observe the customs of the places you travel.

"To stick out like a sore thumb."

If you dress or act very differently from the locals in the place where you are traveling, then you will be noticed. This is not always a good thing.  You should act and dress to blend in.