Dressed casually in a black T-shirt, khakis and black New Balance sneakers, the young Vivek Wagle could easily be mistaken for a veteran backpacker.
The coordinating author of the book Europe on a Shoestring -- a collection of travel tips and anecdotes -- addressed students, faculty and community members at the Penn Bookstore last night.
Wagle began by discussing different aspects of travel, such as logistics, potential problems and, most importantly, why people enjoy traveling.
"Essentially, there's this concept that it all ties into," Wagle explained. "When you travel, you're free. It's a freedom that you really can't get at home because when you travel, no one knows who you are. You have the liberty to reinvent yourself."
However, Wagle also cautioned potential travelers that with this sense of freedom comes a necessary counterbalance of obligation.
"The best trip is the perfect combination of freedom and responsibility," Wagle said. "When you visit somewhere, you need to make sure that you aren't detracting from the place and try to leave it even better than you found it."
The author noted that a good guidebook is essential for any traveler, as it contains information about topics ranging from finding good transportation and lodging to calling home from a prison in another country.
Furthermore, Wagle recommended items necessary when packing for a vacation, including a sturdy and comfortable backpack, daypack and money belt.
"It was really useful to hear what the best places to store your valuables are," said College freshman Jenny Stellar, who is planning a trip through Europe this summer. "It was also good to find out about what to look for when buying a backpack."
Aside from good planning and light packing, Wagle also noted that trusting one's instincts when traveling is crucial.
"If you're like, 'This town's a dump, and I really don't feel safe here,' then just move on," Wagle cautioned.
Following his address, audience members were given an opportunity to enter a drawing for a $50 gift certificate for airfare to Europe from STA Travel.
"I guess I just lucked out," said College and Engineering sophomore Alex Hsi, winner of the prize. "I'm planning to go to Europe with a buddy of mine this summer, so it was great to hear what [Wagle] had to say about some of the customs people have there, which are important to respect, such as learning to say 'good day' in the language of whatever country you are in."
