Shifting Gears Journey: Weeks 1 & 2 in Mexico
Welcome to the first update on the Shifting Gears Journey!
This project has been a long time coming, fueled by my desire to explore more of the world. Below is a recap of my first two weeks in Mexico.
At the start of the year, I was an Instrumentation Engineer at a refinery in Edmonton – a great job, surrounded by a great network of family and friends. While I loved many aspects of my life, I craved change—radical change.
I’ve sold most of my belongings and stored the rest with my parents (thanks mom and dad). Embracing a minimalist lifestyle, I’m proving to myself that happiness comes from within, not from material things.
Now, I’m writing this from an AirBnB in Tlaquepaque, Mexico! The first few weeks have been eventful, and although I don’t know where this journey is headed, I’m learning to trust my instincts and embrace the uncertainty.
Reflections From a Backpack
Two weeks in, I’m still adjusting to this new chapter. Part of me feels like I’m on vacation, but another part knows it’s more than that. There’s no job or ‘home’ to return to, and everything I own fits into two backpacks.
My motto: “Burn boats, but don’t burn bridges.” I want to maintain my relationships but make it difficult to return to my old life easily. I’m determined to face challenges head-on instead of turning back.
Solo travel has always been my preference. It’s liberating to decide where to go and when. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to meet people while traveling solo—hostels are ubiquitous, and people are almost always friendly.
This isn’t a vacation where I can abdicate responsibilities. I still need to handle the logistics of life—paying bills, staying healthy, and now learning Spanish, while also staying safe and figuring out my next steps.
Discovering New Places
Puerto Vallarta
The beaches were beautiful, the people friendly, and the beers cheap, but the heavy tourism and plentitude of resorts weren’t my style. After a few days, I moved on to Yelapa.
Yelapa
Though focused on tourism, the low season made Yelapa feel almost empty. I joined a Temazcal ceremony, hiked to waterfalls, and found time for solo reflection thanks to the unreliable internet.
Sayulita
Though popular, Sayulita is quiet this time of the year. Staying in a party hostel reminded me that I prefer sunrise runs to late-night beer pong, though I got a bit of both and was able to remind myself that it’s okay to let loose sometimes.
Guadalajara
A four-hour bus ride brought me to Guadalajara, a step into more authentic Mexico. Street food is cheap and delicious, and the culture lively. I plan to stay here for another week as I’m taking a Spanish school and there is a lot do and see in one of Mexico’s largest cities. I also took a day trip to Tequila, where the spirit is exclusively made, though some rain cut it short.
One Interesting Story…
A series of lucky coincidences unfolded on my way from Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa. After my boat was canceled, I took a bus instead, saving $20. In line, I met Will, a Californian who’s been coming to Yelapa for over 20 years; he shared some valuable tips.
Upon arrival, the first person I met on the beach was Michelle, the owner of my AirBnB. A mispronunciation led me to ask about a Temazcal, a traditional sweat lodge I’d wanted to try. To my surprise, one was scheduled that night—the first in two months. To top it off, the slow season led to an upgrade to the largest room, complete with A/C.
Plans for Next Week
Next week, I’ll stay in Guadalajara to continue attending Guadalajara Language School and working on my Spanish. Mi español es básico ahora, pero necesito practicar si quiero mejorar. (My Spanish is basic right now, but I need to practice if I want to improve.) Learning Spanish is important to me because it helps me connect better with the people and culture here.
Reflections
VulnerabilitySometimes, the uncertainty and endless options feel overwhelming. At night, I question whether I’ve made the right choices. But instead of discouraging me, it reminds me that self-doubt follows us no matter where we go. |
A LessoneSIMs are convenient but pricey. I paid $30 for a month of data but could have gotten the same at a local store for $15. |
A Quote“My city and state are Rome—as Antoninus. But as a human being? The world. So for me, ‘good’ can only mean what’s good for both communities.” |
What I’ve Been Eating
Enchaladas I found these wandering the streets of Puerto Vallarta. The meal, which included two tacos and a cup of jamaica, cost about $5. |
Pollzo A traditional stew made from hominy (corn), meat, and vegetables. Hearty and flavorful! |
Tacos Street tacos are everywhere and usually only $1 or $2 each. |
Recent Post
From Engineer to Vagabond: Why I Quit My Job to Travel
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Recently, I left my career as an engineer to begin a journey of backpacking through the world. After nine years of studying and working as an engineer, I found myself losing passion for what I was doing. There was a growing sense that the work I was doing wasn’t aligning with … |
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Final Thoughts
Thanks for reading my first travel update. I’m still ironing out the details, so feel free to share your thoughts or feedback!
If you’d like to follow my day-to-day adventures, I’ll also be posting on Instagram and Facebook. Join me there!
With love,
Adam