In case you missed it 2016 has been a pretty epic year for Expat Getaways. Check out our Top 10 of 2016! But life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows especially when travelling. Like most people, our Instagram feed is the highlight reel.
So here’s what you didn’t see…
1. Jess’s allergic reaction…
A mystery insect bite in the Cambodian jungle led to my neck and shoulder swelling. We had to cut our trip to Chi Phat short to return to Phom Penh in search of antihistamines.
2. Andrew dislocating his toe…
Whilst on board a dive boat in Ticao Island Andrew slipped and stubbed his toe. Unfortunately it was left at a rather awkward angle. With the prospect of cutting our trip short, missing dives, a 2 hour boat ride and a 1 hour car ride to get to a questionable regional Filipino hospital he decided to suck it up and take matters into his own hands – popping it back into place while still at sea! Talk about taking one for the team!
3. Bike accidents in Bali…
Anyone who has been to Gili Trawangan will tell you it is so relaxing. Part of that vibe comes from the lack of cars on the island. While that is lovely it does mean you have to traverse the island on a bicycle. We learned the hard way not to do this in the middle of a thunderstorm. You will fall off, it will hurt and to add insult to injury you’ll have to walk the rest of the way home in the rain.
4. Bed bugs…
I also managed to get eaten alive by bed bugs on Gili T. That island really didn’t like me! No it wasn’t a dodgy backpackers. We splurged on private villa with its own pool. Not happy.
5. Food poisoning…
A couple of bouts of food poisoning… Our previously famous iron stomachs were pushed to the limits. For Andrew it hit in the world’s food capital San Sebastian and for me it was Hanoi.
6. Being run over…
I don’t know what it is about Andrew’s feet but he also managed to have his foot literally run over by a car in George Town, Penang. How he came out of that one unscathed I’ll never know. I think I came out more traumatised. Visions of a Malaysian hospital, broken bones and insurance claims flashed before my eyes. He just looked a bit shocked, gave his foot a wiggle and we were set to continue on with our day.
Fingers crossed 2017 doesn’t bring too many dramas. But hey, makes for a good story!
What travel mishaps have you experienced with life on the road? Let us know in the comments below!