Backpackers Guide 101: Sex, Drugs, & Partying
Going abroad will be fun in all kinds of ways. These three will make your trip mind-blowing. You will be hooking up with a whole slew of internationals and you will have a damn good time doing it (safely, of course). If some drugs are on the menu, we won’t judge. Moderation is always key (nobody likes a crackhead). As for partying, there are beach parties, club parties, hostel, hot tub and pool parties for the taking abroad. Here are a few things we have learned along the way that should maximize your fun times:
Sex
The conditions abroad are perfect for getting laid. Everyone is excited in every way when they travel so they let go of their inhibitions. Hooking up with fellow backpackers should be fairly easy as they are in the same boat with you mentally (and sometimes, close to the same bed). Check out our Hostel Sex article for advice on how to seal the deal with hostelmates.
As far as hooking up with locals, there are a few factors to consider that will increase your chances:
- Looking your best abroad may be hard. Groom, shower and primp if you plan to get laid. Go grungy when you’re in between places. Balance is key.
- Culture matters when it comes to sex. Some places, like Jamaica, are very lenient on the sexual liberation front. Other places, like the Middle East, have very strict hook-up rules and pre-marital sex may be out of the question all together. To get in the know, check out the Top Ten Horniest Countries according to askmen.com.
- Buying drinks or playing dumb will not get you laid everywhere. Modify your tactics based on location.
- Smile often. Brush your teeth.
None of this working out for you: Here are the prostitution policies of 100 countries around the world.
Drugs
Amsterdam comes to mind instantly, right? It is known for its liberal drug laws and partaking in some pot smoking (or brownie eating) is allowed and normal. There will be cafes that sell marijuana; all different kinds, in varying forms for different types of consumption (on premises). You will be tempted to get stoned out of your mind. Just keep it fun and don’t overdo it for risk of sleeping through your whole trip to Amsterdam. Also, great greasy food will be available everywhere to cure those munchies.
Colombia is where cocaine lives. It will be cheap ($5 a gram), varies in form and will be available all around you. We’re not suggesting you go out into the streets of Colombia and start asking everyone for cocaine, we’re just saying there’s lots of it out there. Keep in mind that the drug wars here have been raging since the beginning of time. Stay sober enough to be careful and don’t let it become a reason to stay in Colombia.
All kinds of drugs will be available everywhere and their legality will vary from place to place. Here is a tool to find the drug policies in the places you want to visit so you can know where to smoke, snort and shoot up (we really hope it doesn’t get to this) abroad.
Partying
A party is to be had anywhere in the world. You can find something that fits your partying moods and needs in every country. Some will be organized annual celebrations, some impromptu park and house parties, there are clubs, bars and costume balls (during the day, night, morning and any time in between). A taste of what’s available:
- Oktoberfest in Germany (September 20 to October 10, annually) is dedicated to beer consumption and messiness. Here are some photos from last year’s party to call your taste buds to attention.
- Carnival in Brazil (February 22-28, annually) is known worldwide for their elaborate costumes (with built-in nakedness) and wild celebrations. A couple of photos for your viewing pleasure.
- Botellons in Spain: these are organized park drinking parties. You bring booze, everyone else brings their booze and you share. Most large plazas in Spain will hold one around 10pm every weekend night!
- Australia Day: January 26th. The whole country (well continent) celebrates the discovery (through European settlement) of Australia. It’s all about beers, barbecues and beaches.
Read Matador.com’s list of top ten parties for more inspiration.
When it comes to sex, drugs and partying, the same precautions apply abroad as they do at home. Keep an eye on your drink at all times (roofies are roofies at home or while traveling), don’t get belligerent (you’ll look stupid and possibly get robbed and/or raped) and know your limits.
