Travel often takes us to places where the natural world poses a serious threat that, although unlikely, is inescapable and with which we have little experience (e.g., venomous snakes, bears). Even though the risk may be smaller statistically than others we take daily without worrying (e.g., travel on a busy freeway), it can be difficult to accept this rationalization as a way of diminishing fear. Do you experience such fear, and how do you deal with it mentally so as to maintain enjoyment of the adventure?

Sincerely,
Stephen Yezerinac
smy656@anu.edu.au

Tim: Dear Stephen,

You know what's really scary? The unknown. Scares us more than anything. So ... if I was personally frightened of snakes I had heard about at some destination, I'd study up on them as much as possible before I went. I'd find someone at the destination who knew a lot about the snakes. I'd compare his or her advice with my reading and make my own decisions as to what chances I'd be willing to take.

But I'd know about the snakes, and knowledge, in my experience, has the effect of dulling fear to a bearable level.

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