Let’s Get Lost!
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Posted by Girlosophy on Wed 2 November 2011
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If you are the type of person who has an in-built compass in their brain and confident enough to wing it in a new place with even a basic airport map, then you are probably the type who never gets lost. For the rest of us, however, sometimes getting our bearings isn’t as easy as we’d like it to be.
Some cities naturally lend themselves to orientation – New York is one, Paris is another – as they have well laid out streets and identifiable landmarks by which to navigate. Many other less developed locations don’t have these advantages. When all the buildings in a place you have never been to before look the same or the lack of landmarks by which to orientate yourself becomes a problem, it’s time to narrow the focus.
Start locally with where you are staying. What major road is it on or near? Can you work out where the sun comes up or where it sets? Is there a tall building or mountain or any other geographical point (body of water, beach etc) visible? Getting lost can be fun or it can be a challenge. It all depends on your state of mind. However, if you’re not having fun and you’re starting to worry, things can take on a bit of an edge. So, if you find:
You’re in a strange place
You’re lost at night
You’ve lost your sense of direction
You’ve forgotten your address
You need to think clearly and slow down.
Don’t rush off in any direction in a panic – try to logically work out how far you have come and how long it took you to get there. Check your street map – if you have mobile reception check Google Maps! Perhaps you just need to find a street sign and work backwards to figure it out. Look for obvious shop signs or road intersections.
If you are out at night and lose your way, be cautious and try to stay near bright lights, people and busy places. Sit down at a café, buy a cup of tea or a drink of some sort and take a deep breath. Study your map calmly. Maybe the waiter can help you. It’s better to ask someone who is attached to a place (i.e. working), as they will be more helpful and truthful.
Whatever you do, don’t panic. You could always find a phone and call the hotel. They may even send a van or car for you. If not, they may be able to help you get back there. Hopefully you have your hotel or accommodation business card with you so if you are able to get a taxi, the driver can understand where it is you need to get back to.
If language barriers arise, simply hand the phone to the waiter if you have to – and don’t forget to tip!
Be intrepid and be brave, you’re only lost, and it won’t be for long.
Photographer: Anthea Paul
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