Glossary

The holy grail of backpacker mindsets: when a traveller embraces - and is embraced by - a country’s culture to such an extent they become as local as the locals themselves. A classic example is the state Carlitos de Jeffers describes in Castro’s Downfall, whereby he felt so at ease with Cuban life after only a few days and so accepted by the people that he achieved CCA in record time.Many backpackers believe they have achieved CCA simply because they enjoy a country’s culture so much. This is an error as it ignores the second requirement - that of acceptance by the locals. While in theory anyone can achieve CCA, only Carlitos de Jeffers is recorded as having done so - wilfully entering CCA in any country he goes to. If you believe you have achieved CCA you should outline your claims in an email to Carlitos at theglorifiedgypsy.com where he will be happy to point out the flaws in your submission.

FreeStyleTravel™

An extreme form of backpacking invented and pioneered by Carlitos de Jeffers. Eschewing hiking boots in favour of a pair of Dunlop Volleys and heavy backpacks for less heavy backpacks. It’s about giving back to the countries through which one travels. FreeStyleTravel™ is as much a spiritual movement as a way of life. What exactly is FreeStyleTravel™? A new book - currently in the early first draft stage - will explain the FreeStyleTravel™ manifesto in full. Until then allow Carlitos’s journals to be your guide.