More American women than ever are traveling to what used to be referred to as "The Third World." (Actually, it used to be referred to as the "Undeveloped World" until that became politically incorrect. Then it became the "Developing World" although many folks claimed it really wasn't - developing, that is. So then it was "The Third World" which just begged the question, What makes you think you're the First World?, followed by, Which way to the Second World? So now, just go ahead and call it whatever you like, because, frankly, I can't keep up.)
Anyway, the point is, some of us are traveling to places without flush toilets or running water or reliable electricity. Maybe we're going there to work or volunteer, or to broaden our horizons or to show our kids the world. Heck, maybe we're going because the airfare is cheap(er), the beaches are still unspoiled and the thought of sleeping under those mosquito nets is oh, so romantic! No matter where you're going and why, before you sit on your suitcase in an attempt to be able to zip it closed and check for the sixteenth time, that yes, your passport is in your purse, be sure you’ve packed these essential items that no woman going to a lesser-developed country should leave home without:
1. Tampons and other sanitary supplies: You can’t assume that your preferred brand of sanitary supply (or in some very remote location, any recognizable brand of sanitary supply) will be available. And worse than getting your period on your trip, is not being prepared while getting your period on your trip.
2. Bandana: I can’t even begin to enumerate the many wonderful – and sometimes, lifesaving – uses of this item. Well, I can begin: help on a bad hair day, washcloth or towel in a pinch, indispensable first aid supply, protection for eyes, nose and mouth against tear gas . . .
3. Personal water filtration system and water bottles: Trust me, it is probably NOT safe to drink the water wherever you're going. But you should be drinking lots of water. Pump yourself some safe water and carry it around with you at all times.
4. Birth control: Condoms are widely available pretty much all around the world – which is a good thing because so is HIV and a whole host of sexually transmitted diseases. But while condoms are everywhere, your preferred brand of birth control may not be. If you’re going to be sexually active – be prepared!
5. A good book (or two): Planes are delayed, trains don’t run on time, buses break down. Translation: You will be waiting. Having something to read will help pass the time and keep you relaxed while you wait.
6. An English – whatever-language-they-speak-where-you-are-going-Dictionary: It’s a basic courtesy – and sometimes a necessity – to be able to speak at least a few crucial words or phrases in the local language. My suggestions include: “Please,” “Thank you,” “Another beer” and “Where is the bathroom?”
7. A Skirt: While women can go anywhere in America wearing pants, that’s not the case in the rest of the world. A skirt will help you fit in and wearing one comes in awfully handy for privacy should you ever need to . . . ahem, relieve yourself by the side of a road.
8. Good walking shoes: The world is a big place and walking is often the best way to see it. It’s hard to be adventurous – or happy – when your feet hurt.
9. A notebook and pen: You will want to write down some of the amazing things you are seeing, hearing and experiencing. And who knows? Maybe there’s a kernel of a book in it!
10. An open heart and a good attitude: Armed with this, you will be welcomed anywhere!
Eve Brown-Waite has lived and traveled all over the world (mostly in countries without electricity, running water, or tampons), and can tell you that sleeping under a mosquito net is not always as romantic as it seems. Eve is the author of FIRST COMES LOVE, THEN COMES MALARIA.
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