Nap-packing

There's something new on the scene. It's a difference I'm noticing from my previous, more youthful backpacking trips - napping. 

Napping has now become an essential part of my daily schedule. And it's great because it costs me nothing, but mainly, it allows me to better experience the highlights across Mexico, Cuba and now Guatemala. 

The streets don't come alive in this part of the world until after 8.30pm. Heck, in Sydney I'd call that a good time to turn in, hit the hay and get a good night's rest before work. 

But not here. No way. If I tried my at-home routine in this part of the world I'd be at the matinee of meals with the grey-rise brigade. 

So I've turned to napping. Siestas if you would. Now I can stay up until all kinds of crazy hours, knowing that come 4pm tomorrow, I can nap for the best part of two hours before my next nightly prowl.

For nap-packer wannabe's, there are a few key ingredients required for the ultimate napping experience; a sunbed or hammock either by a river or the sea (I'm not fussy); a book to help still the mind before my immanent doze-session and a fresh juice upon waking up.

Nap-packing is taking off. It's free, it's restorative and it's helping me keep pace on this adventure-fuelled gringo trail. 

It's 4pm. Buenos tardes amigos.