I absolutely am loving having Dan along on this trip, but I have started to experience some of the new problems that come along with having a travel partner.

For one thing, it's a lot harder to find time to blog and write and think and process, and all of my normal processes are being disrupted.

For example, I usually find my way from the train to the hostel using written directions, because landmarks are usually more helpful than the elusive street signs. Dan, coming straight from the United States where street signs are always on display, pulled out the map to find the hostel using the streets, and suddenly I felt completely detached from the process. We also went the wrong way, and had to start back at the beginning using directions.

My moments of silents where I used to ponder and reflect are now filled with conversation, and I feel less creative than I did just 48 hours ago. Practically, it's a little harder to know how much money I'm spending since Dan and I have the tendency to do the "you get this time, I'll get the next time" thing.

So far on this trip, some of my best moments have happened because I followed a rapid instinct. With a partner in tow you can't just dive off the main street and chase after a photo, or an opportunity. In general, communication is becoming a more important tool than resourcefulness, and I am having to remember to discuss my plans before enacting them.

It's really interesting how with a partner some problems get solved - loneliness, fear, worry - but new problems arise. I am sure the next month will be really interesting as we learn to find a balance on the road.