So this time next week I will be in Cartagena in Colombia at the start of my 100 day South America trip. I am really excited but also pretty scared about it. But I think at the moment the excitement out weights the nervousness. And there is the attraction of warmth and sunshine too!

Its the first time I’ve ever travelled completely on my own, doing all my own organising and booking hostels and trips. I’ve got to say, without the internet I would be at a complete loss, HostelWorld has proved invaluable.

Lots of people are giving me tips on where to go and what to see – some are telling me horror stories which is not really what I want to hear right now. But everyone who has been there says what a beautiful place it is, really diverse and on the whole the people are welcoming and friendly.

I’m thinking about what I need to pack – trying to fit everything I think I will need into a 40l and 20l rucksack is not going to be easy but I intend to travel light as I’m the one who’s got to carry it all!

There’s a lot to do before I leave – like pack up my room so I can rent it out, sort out all the finances so the bills are paid when I’m away, finish off all the odds and ends at work (last day this Friday!!!) and sort out what I am actually going to take with me.

I’ll keep you posted on how I get on as I travel around.