Jesse and Brie

Names and ages

Jesse Weinberg, 29 & Brie Pinkerton 26.

Hometown

Seattle, WA

Why did you decide to drive

We love the independence that driving allows you. You can go where ever you want when ever you want. You aren't stuck on the heavy tourist trail that often happens when you take a bus or public transport.

Pets

We have two dogs along with us, they are really cool cocka-poos. Their names are Shooter and Jazz.

Type of car 

We are driving a 1986 Toyota Van

Modifications made to the car

We did a few things to the van, tinted the driver and passenger windows (which was money well spent), I built a bed/ storage system in the backend put curtains up. We also bought some fake alarm blinking red lights.

How did we save to finance the trip

Brie and I busted our asses bar-tending and saved up.

How long do you plan on traveling

6 months to a year.

Reactions of family and friends

Half the family was supportive, and half was totally freaked out. Most people couldn't beleive we were going to do it. They thought it was too risky and dangerous. Most of these people have never traveled in Mexico or abroad.

Did you speak Spanish before you left

Brie speaks Spanish very well, I do not. We took a week long language school in La Paz.

Favorite place or country we have visited so far

San Miguel De Allende, and Puerto Escondito

What is the weirdest thing you have experienced?

Being asked for fish as a bribe by a Mexican police officer, instead of money. We didn't have any fish so he got a little money.

What was the worst border crossing?

Well its not a border crossing, but Mexico City was the worst so far. We were stopped by corrupt "police" groping their large automatic weapons and forced to pay a large bribe or go to prison. Something to do with our license plates and the fact that we are gringos.

Advice for others traveling this trip

Bring an I pod, lantern, oil filters, your doggies, and enjoy!

Would you do it again?

Yes, but there are so many other great places out there to see.

Do you have a website?

Yes, SpiritVanimal