Solo Backpack: The Interesting Adventure of Davide Longhi

In this exclusive solo backpack interview “Solo Backpack: The Interesting Adventure of Davide Longhi”, we delve into the captivating story of Davide, a young adventurer, who courageously set out on a solo backpacking expedition to Vietnam.

With nothing but a backpack and a thirst for exploration, Davide shares his motivations, challenges and unforgettable experiences from his upcoming journey he will undertake in a few months.

Join us as we uncover the fascinating details of Davide’s decision to venture alone into the unknown landscapes of Vietnam, exploring its rich culture, diverse communities and breathtaking scenery.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to gain insight into the mind of a modern-day explorer, as Davide Longhi opens up about the joys and trials of solo travel, the profound connections made along the way and the transformative power of embracing the unfamiliar.

Get ready to be captivated by Davide’s story of self-discovery, resilience and the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to chase their dreams, one step at a time.

Tell us a bit about yourself, your life, and what led you to choose the backpacking project.

Hello everyone, I am Davide. I am a 34 years old guy who has been living in London for five years, where I work as a Transport Planner.

From the title of my job it may sound like I’m great at travel planning, but that’s not really the case 😊.

I moved to London in 2018 after a rather unsatisfying relationship and with a desire for a change of scenery and new experiences.

Actually, I am comfortable in London and although it is a big city, I have found my rhythm and routine.

However, it is this routine that made me decide to take this trip. I consider myself a bit insecure and my strategy to feel more secure is to do things I have already done and not venture too far outside my comfort zone.

However, from time to time (as happened when I moved to London), I feel restless and decide to break the chains I have put on myself and step out of my comfort zone!

So, after five years of fairly predictable days, I needed an adrenaline boost.

After a long talk with a dear friend who had been to Vietnam a few years ago, I decided to take a month off and book a backpacking trip from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh.

Have you had similar experiences before?

Yes and no… I went to Sri Lanka in 2016, but it was not a great experience for several reasons: I had planned that vacation poorly, I had not anticipated various “inconveniences,” and I only had 12 days 😊.

Then, in recent years, I’ve taken backpacking vacations, but I wouldn’t consider them adventurous: I spent a couple of summers backpacking in Sardinia and Corsica.

What is the most challenging thing you are facing during your preparation?

Oh, maybe the most challenging thing is that I don’t prepare enough, so I see days go by without organizing myself well.

I would say that the psychological preparation is the one that is challenging me the most.

Mainly because, as I said, I am a little bit afraid to step out of my comfort zone.

Also, as often happens in these cases, I have had other problems that have kept me quite busy.

What will you do when you are on your journey?

I hope nothing! 😊

But jokes aside, I want to explore new places, especially in northern Vietnam.

I really enjoy trekking, and I’ve seen that there are some interesting trails! I also love oriental cuisine, so I hope to indulge in some excellent street food.

Have there been significant changes in your family as a result of this life choice? How did your friends and family react?

“Significant” changes I would say no.

However, it was interesting how my parents reacted to the news: my mother was very happy for me.

My father did not take it very well. He thinks I should first “settle down” and then embark on this kind of adventure.

To which I asked him, “Have you settled down? Have you ever had such an experience?” He did not appreciate the question 😊.

Apart from them, my friends are very happy and proud of my choice.

How will you choose the stops on his trip and future destinations?

I have created a tentative itinerary for myself.

I have a list of places I definitely want to visit and others I would like to see.

Since I will be staying in hostels, I imagine (and hope) to meet new people, which may result in changes in my itinerary.

So I have tried to keep a relatively flexible schedule. In any case, I know that I will leave from Hanoi and have a month to reach Ho Chi Minh.

There will be setbacks and detours, and that is part of the adventure.

Will you be traveling alone or do you have travel companions who will join you on this adventure?

Alone, but there is a possibility that a couple of friends will join me in the last week.

What advice would you like to give to a family or someone who would like to embark on a similar journey and embrace this lifestyle?

Before deciding on a destination, think about what you want to “bring home” or what motivates you to embark on this journey.

There may not necessarily be a specific reason-I know that some people travel just for the pleasure of it, but often there is something deeper driving these choices.

Another tip (especially for office workers): imagine that tomorrow is your last day.

Would you spend it doing what you are currently doing?

If the answer is yes, fine, no problem.

If, like me, the answer is no, no problem. Then ask yourself what you would do, where, and with whom!

Thank you Davide!

Your words and your courage are very motivating. We at lifestylemind.com will follow you on this magnificent adventure and hope to hear from you again so you can tell us all the details!

It will surely be an exciting adventure full of surprises, we are sure!

We hope you enjoyed this solo backpack interview “Solo Backpack: The Interesting Adventure of Davide Longhi”!

You can leave us a comment if you like, especially if you also want to embark on a solo backpack journey!