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What qualities make for a good travelling companion?
Barring the solo travellers, what top three traits (there are lots, I know) make for a good travelling companion? One that you don't want to strangle, or "fix" their front brakes after a long and trying day/week/month/year?
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Easy going, doesn't take things too personally, flexible.
When I planned a little expedition to the Gambia I was only interested in taking guys from the military. They are used to having to live in each others pockets and are used to working under stress, and understand that everyone will throw their teddy out of the pram sometime and don't take it too personally. This was after my experience travelling with others. I travelled with my dad and had to be stopped by others from putting a shovel through his head, he just didn't know when to leave someone alone! I also saw lots of teams who were best mates who after a week couldn't bear being in the same car together! I'm sure lots of us have done house shares with best friends and ended up hating them! Most people simply don't have the experience to be able to adjust to that kind of living. Thats why a lot of people, myself included, prefer to travel alone. I enjoy travelling with others, but in every group there's always at least one who really shouldn't be there and spoils it for the rest. |
For me;
Paul |
Flexibility.
The wisdom to know when to call it quits and split up. Knowledge of bike mechanics. An easy going attitude...but not too easy going. |
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Oh and the quality, just being able to trust in your companions judgement. |
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IMHO over the years, it is this! always ready to go when you are happy to eat anything especially what's in your bowl never complains never a prima donna will jump in any water for a shower never wrecks your plans always happy to be with you wherever you are and want to go! |
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1. Shares their idea, view or opinion but isn't hell bent on achieving it 2. Knows how to have fun and enjoy the trip without riding or behaving like an imbecile or taking unreasonable risks 3. Is calm and resourceful, not getting stressed under pressure or when plans have to be changed |
I look for someone who says what he/she is going to do and does it.......
Not people who say what they are going to do and then pull out ! I avoid anyone that says: " I'm not fussed" or " I don't mind" or "I'm easy" ( I may adjust my thoughts on the last one, should the facts dictate it may be in my best interest to do so ) So I either go alone, or take the wife ( which has been great.......... so far) :innocent: |
It has to be...
Compatibility. Obviously ! I've made some great life long friends from travelling partners and also wanted to bury some travel partners within days of leaving home... For me........ 1) Same sleep patterns. There is NOTHING more irritating than being packed up, fed and sweating in your riding gear your travel partner is still snoring at midday. Especially when you have arranged an early dart in the morning for a border crossing etc etc 2) Easy going. The ability to just go with the flow. I've traveled with one or two people who are such bullies in where to stay, what to eat and how long to ride. I'm happy to be led... But not dragged ! 3) Patient We all have our moments when we're less than desirable. Long term travel can be stressful, lonely and difficult. You need a travel buddy who can bite their lip at times when you're having a bad day. 4) Helpful. We all need help at times. A good team is essential. 5) The MOST important of all.. Sense of humor... If you can't 'laugh it off' or find the funny side of a bad situation, you're lost in my books. |
My Wife .
I'm lucky that I get to spend each and every day on the road with Her. We work through any problem's that come our way. I don't think I could have done it without her and who better to share all the fantastic things that you see on on your travels . :mchappy: |
I see several have referred to taking their wives.
When I take mine we go by car. can carry more, bigger tent, camp beds etc. also car has longer range and is easier to stop for a meal or brew up as I keep the boot as a kitchen. In fact seriously considering getting a little diesel hatch back or similar. They will do more mpg. more comfy than any sidecar rig. |
Easy going, common sense are the primary things ... then in rough order
The ability to disagree, but not take it personally! Similar ability/attributes; in riding in camping Preferably different knowledge (so as to cover areas I'm not proficient in! doh). You only find theses thing out after a while .. so always a gamble on a new comer .. but worth taking the risk for the good ones. :thumbup1: |
Good travel partner
Able to try and make the most of any situation.
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Agree with many who have already posted, but also need:
- someone who is happy to do things on their own (not tied at the hip!) - the ability to make / share decisions (not just leave things to me) - someone who can be relied upon to act accordingly (especially in difficult or dangerous situations) I like the idea of a Dog! :) |
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Cheers! |
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