Kuala Lumpur

Yes, folks. This is where preparedness comes in handy.

My connection in Seoul was too short. And, as much as I enjoyed the Korean Air attendant racing us all through Seoul International Airport screaming, "KUALA LUMPUUUURRRR," at the top of his lungs, I miss my luggage.

The Backpacker's Traveller's Inn is only for the most hardened backpacker. Yes, it is cheap (without adding the expense of toilet paper). Yes, it is air-conditioned (between 9pm and 7am). Yes, the staff is friendly (during the day shift). However, it not clean and frankly, reminds me of a squatter's in Cape Town. Needless to say, I have a bone to pick with you, Mr. Lonely Planet Guide.

I am simply happy, that I had my own wonderful permethrin'd sleeping bag and super squishy pillow to cocoon myself into until I could emerge somewhat recuperated from my multi-day multi-flight ordeal. Then, my shammy and solid soap bar (that not only survived the liquids check) saved me from that film of pressurized, recycled people germs that must congeal after the 11th hour or so of an International flight.

The only thing I am really missing, is a sarong.
Next Stop: The Central Market on Jalan Kasturi.

Preparation

My mother likes to refer to my state of being before any lengthy international trip as "catatonia."

I lose all responsiveness, facial expression (- even the famed "Hiestand Grimace" which, if you've ever seen any of our extended family portraits, is so pervasive, we'll probably all wrinkle the same way too) or sense of humor.

Personally, I prefer to think of it as maxing out my processor. Figuring out the delicate balance of preparedness vs. over-packed paranoia is no easy task. For example, reading guide books is a double-edged sword. Some of it is useful, good ol'fashioned advice, but most of it is constant, rattling of bones until you have that, "Gosh, I'm sure glad I bought this guidebook!" moment that makes the $23.99 price tag worthwhile.

However, the general rule is that you never really know until you get there.