Backpacking
Sure, see the world. I can dig that. See the bits that are off the beaten track (because they're 'more authentic' apparently).

But seeing all that from a backdrop of hostels full of twatting-around-for-a-year students, airports and third world buses?

Why? Just why?

Hotels. Hire cars. Restaurants*. If you're going to visit a country that's poorer than you, then why the hell would you not do it 5-star? It's the only opportunity you're going to get 'cos it's all back out the window when you get back home.

*admittedly, I do fancy hitting east asia and living off food from market stalls, even though I guess it's the east's answer to a burger van
(Benjimawoo, Sat 17 Oct 2009, 8:03, 2 replies)

There are multiple reasons for backpacking.
For me, mostly it's financial. Not everyone can afford to travel five-star, but that shouldn't exclude them from traveling. I'm heading to Europe next year, and when I could afford either maybe a month or six weeks in five star hotels, seeing maybe two or three countries, or five months in hostels, seeing ten to twelve countries, it's not a hard choice to make.
As a solo traveler, it's also a nice and easy way to meet new people. There have been places where I wouldn't've been too keen to go out alone at night, but it's fine when you're with a few other people.
(teff, Sat 17 Oct 2009, 14:12, closed)

I don't disagree with anything you've said.
I just can't get excited about it.
(Benjimawoo, Sat 17 Oct 2009, 17:05, closed)