Lesson Seven: Driving Yourself in South America

You know you're on South American roads when

1. Gravel roads become your new home

2. Your spine still takes on a lot of bouncing function

3. You should refuel at EVERY opportunity because the places are very far apart

4. You call a simple, uncovered fuel pump with an attendant sitting on a plastic chair next to it as a gas station. There's only fuel. Max's dream job

5. It's normal for a gas station to be out of power or fuel

6. You're grateful for the opposite lane because it's the only way to avoid the wide and 40cm deep potholes

7. You're not worried when a truck is coming towards you at this exact moment. One of three vehicles all day

8. That's why you're looking forward to the gravel roads again

9. Your car gets so dirty from the dust every day that cleaning it is no longer worth it

10. The ubiquitous dirt also covers the interior of your vehicle with a fine layer

11. Every road sign reminds you to drive slowly and indicates every obvious turn, but does not warn you of potholes the size of a swimming pool

12. Border officials stamp your car documents incorrectly. Doesn't matter, as long as there's some stamp

13. You constantly give rides to interesting temporary passengers