Enga mellom fjella

Stress and need of micro-planning my trip.

Traveling can be stressful for some of us. There are many who simply couldn't travel like I do (hostels, long periods of time, tight budget). Plane flights are one issue. A place to stay is another. It's possible to show up in a strange town and find a place... when any place will do and comfort or price isn't the issue. But... I'll be in at least 7 countries during national holidays and Spring, Autumn and religious events.

If I don't reserve places to stay... soon...

1. I'm staying in Ueno, Tokyo for $86/3 nights. Dates: March 6,7,8. It's near Uguisudani station. Not sure which train line that is but it will be easy to get to from the airport. There are good connections north from Ueno station to Mito, to Sendai, to Tohoku.

2. Ireland is an issue. I'll be in Listowel May 28,29,30. I don't know how the Writersweek goes though. Big opening on the 27th? Big finale on the 31st? No clue. I'm signed up for a workshop on travel writing (with Mary Russell) but have no idea what else is free, open to the public, et cetera. Is there an open mic? In any case, there will be no place to stay if I don't act soon. Did find out that the buses run on June 1st, a bank holiday. So much to learn about a place I've never been.

3. Key places: Dubai U.A.E. April 21,22 (like only one reasonable place to stay), Coimbra, Portugal May 8,9,10 (university festival); Lisbon, Portugal April 23,24,25 (national holiday). Kansai, Japan (Osaka, Kyoto, Nara) may be decided because when the cherries bloom (hanami) it will be crowded.

4. Coming and going... First and last nights in Japan (Narita, Fukuoka), in Australia (Brisbane, Melbourne), in Portugal (Lisbon both times), in Norway (Kristiansand on May 15th is reserved but May 24th is not)... you get the picture. Over 4-5 months there will be dates when it doesn't matter but I like to know where I'm going when I arrive. And having a place to stay before I get on a plane to my next destination is essential as well.

5. I realize that I should just let go. Depend on being flexible and the kindness of strangers. Go with the flow. But my finances and high anxiety won't allow me. Next trip? Maybe just couch surf... play it by ear... make it open-ended like a friend Paula did. But NOT this trip. Not me.

My goal today is to tackle this.

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