On this trip I can’t be described as a back-packer. I have a large red case on wheels. The wheels move in any direction which make transporting it really easy when you’re in a modern country with smooth roads and wheel chair access.
Buses are a challenge. Usually the only way to stop the case’s free movement up and down the isle is me hanging on to it and hoping I’m strong enough for it not to take me with it!
When I was in Auckland I stayed on a hill. Going up was a test as I had to drag the case behind me, going down was like being taken for a walk by an over eager dog! I joked that I’d be rolling towards the harbour and land on a yacht. But I was told there was a fence I’d meet before that and get pinned to!
At the conference I mentioned to one of my coaching colleagues that I’m considering other names, perhaps a ‘wheelee’ or ‘free wheeler’. She told me I’m a ‘flash packer’, apparently there’s an official term! There seem to be some hostels specialising in flash packers. We like a private en-suite room but we don’t need lots of fancy restaurants and stuff. My room in Queenstown was pretty small and basic but had a wonderful view. With Mum coming we’ve upgraded and am now staying in the Millennium which does have a restaurant and lots of fancy stuff. The strange thing is, with last minute booking at rates to go, there’s only $11 NZ difference in price! Perhaps this flash packer wasn’t so flash!
