How I did it: I had always wanted to do a travel course at some point in my college career, but with the approach of my last year of college I was feeling like it was never going to happen. My wedding was in a few months, and I didn't see it fitting into my busy schedule or my financial future.

After a lot of consideration (and discussions with my future hubby) I decided it was time. A friend of mine finally talked me into taking the plunge, and I did everything I could to make it work. I rearranged my work schedule around the trip dates, got a second job to help fund it, and took out student loans for the spring semester.

I believe in keeping a low amount of debt, (which is why I am paying for my wedding out of savings)... but I felt like this was a time where I could justify the expense.

I am so, so glad I did! The experience was amazing, and it really gave me an appreciation for everything that is important to me in life. Being away from my fiance, my family was really hard. I know it was only two weeks, but home will always be home and it was the first time I had gone a day without talking to my fiance in three years. He was so supportive, and he pushed me to take the trip because he knew what it would mean to me. He is an amazing man. I have never been more relieved to be in his arms than the day I walked off that airplane.

And Ecuador... I fell in love with her. The majestic mountains, lush rainforests, historic architecture, archeoligical ruins, open culture, and rural landscapes enchanted me. She is a beautiful country, and I will always miss her. I kept a journal during my time there so I can always treasure the details of my experience. There was so much to write about.

We spend so much of our lives in inconsequential moments, and an experience like this crams every moment of the trip full of memory.

If you get the chance, take it. Live and love every moment.

Lessons & tips: Take lots of pictures, journal your experience, spend your money wisely, eat chocolate when you are moving through different altitudinal zones, and bring toilet paper and hand sanitizer. :)

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Feb 08, 2009, 04:03PM PST | 2 comments | 7 cheers