I've decided to just skip my Japan wrap up altogether. Not because I don't want to do it, but because I am really freaking lazy! Or something like that.
Truth be told, in this post that looks back at the best and the worst of my trip pre Europe, Japan will he heavily featured, so it will be easy to cover any ground I may have missed. So let's get to it...the best and the worst of my trip so far.
Best Country: Japan
Why?: I've always wanted to do something like this trip, and it is because, I think at least, a certain level of need for adventure that exists within me. I always want to get out and do something great, something grand, something new.
And while every country I have gone to feels like that to a degree, going to Japan feels like something completely unlike anywhere else in the world. It feels like another planet! It reminded me of a JLA arc Tower of Babel written by Mark Waid, in which the minds of everyone on the Earth were altered so they did not understand language - it just looked like shapes to them. That's what a lot of Japan was - signs with shapes and the innate hope that I was going the right way and doing the right thing.
While that may not sound attractive to others, isn't that the basic component of adventure? Sailing off into parts unknown at its most all encompassing level can be found in Japan. Other countries cater to Western culture with signs in English and their home language, while Japan rarely does. It gets down to DIY traveling and communicating using whatever methods you have at hand. I found this to be an awesome experience.
Throw in the best food and lodging as well as the fact that it is so convenient to get around the country at a surprisingly inexpensive cost and you have an amazing place through and through.
Worst Country: Australia
Why?: I wrote a break up letter to this country. Do you need further explanation, really?
Best Major City: Melbourne, Australia
Why?: The first major shocker of the list! Ahh!!! How can my least favorite country house the favorite major city?! Well, it is quite simple - New Zealand had nondescript cities, Sydney kind of sucked, Brisbane was like New Zealand, Chiang Mai felt too small, and all of the Japanese cities were amazing but didn't stand out as much.
Oh yeah, and Melbourne itself is pretty amazing. Culturally robust streets, filled with artists and great food, top notch mass transit, fairly inexpensive (lots of free exhibits to take in), nice hostels, and great timing (Melbourne Comedy Festival and Supanova Pop Culture Expo were going when I was there) combine into an amazing time. It is beautiful, happening and one of the places I could see myself living.
Worst Major City: Bangkok, Thailand
Why?: Before I went there I watched a No Reservations with Anthony Bourdain in which he described it as a place that your clothes can't help but stick to your body. Good god he was so right - even though I was there just for a day, Bangkok is a place that is sickeningly hot. Humid, scorching and packed with 10+ million people crowding around you to sell you their knock off brand sunglasses and Manchester United jerseys, it was so intense that I felt the need to retreat to a local mall to survive. And that is not an understatement.
Best Non Major City/Town: Hiroshima, Japan
Why?: With regards to Chiang Mai, Thailand and Wanaka, New Zealand, Hiroshima was one of the best experiences I've ever had. Walking the streets, you find it impossible not to think of the fact that this city was once flattened by a nuclear bomb - and not that long ago. Hiroshima being a beautiful, lively place with the most peaceful disposition of anywhere I've been is a testament to the perseverance, honor and efficiency of Japan as a whole.
Throw in a great hostel, the best Okonomiyaki in the country, and the otherworldly greatness of nearby island Miyajima, and you have a plCe I will not forget any time soon.
Worst Non Major City/Town: Paihia, New Zealand
Why?: Just a completely nondescript beach town that doubles as a (near as I can tell) Frat boy resort on weekends. It was one of the few places I felt desperate to get out of. It's a shame this experience is attached to the flat out incredible Bay of Islands.
Best Food: Japan
Why?: At its worst (Takoyaki) it is remarkably interesting and occasionally good. At its best, it is consistently the best food in the world. The sushi tastes like a different version than what I get elsewhere, the ramen makes the name Top Ramen feel like a case of completely indecent copyright infringement, the katsu is crisp and delicious even at rainy baseball games, the tempura tries to bring tasty tears to my eyed, and everything else is somewhere between very good and delicious.
One of my favorite things to say about it is this: a very high percentage of the time I had little to no idea as to what I was eating, but I ate it anyways. Why? Because I was filled with faith to the core of me that not only would this not hurt me, but it would be absolutely delectable.
And it never let me down.
Worst Food: New Zealand
Why?: British food without the aid of the influence of millions of Asian implants. That is not a compliment. However, they did make wicked Eggs Benedict and their beer and coffee are universally good.
Best Living Situation: Japan
Why?: Every hostel was awesome. Decently priced, wifi EVERYWHERE, super comfy beds, good privacy considering the fact I sometimes shared a room with 7 people, fantastic staff, and the awesome touch of all of them sending me personalized emails after I left (including one that told me my warm greetings brightened the day of every staff member). I loved them, each and every one of them.
Best Hostel: Noosa Flashpackers in Noosa, Australia.
Why?: This is the best hostel I have ever stayed in. A warm environment that immediately turns disparate groups of people into a community, superb shuttle service, nice kitchen, a DVD library and huge TV on days that it rains (of which there are many in Noosa), WiFi, and free computers to write emails and upload pictures on. Plus, the staff was very personable and the cost was very reasonable.
Worst Living Situation: New Zealand
Why?: Besides Hogwartz in Dunedin (which was predictably amazing) and the YHA Purple Cow in Wanaka, I was fairly unimpressed with hostels in New Zealand. Could have been bad luck, but the places I stayed on the North Island in particular were pretty weak.
Best Experience (tie): Swimming with Dolphins in the Bay of Islands (New Zealand), Bungie Jumping in Queenstown (New Zealand), First Day of Songkran Festival in Chiang Mai (Thailand), Motorbiking Around Koh Samui (Thailand), Day One of Emerald City ComiCon (Seattle)
Why?: Each were amazing for different reasons, but all of them will stick with me for the rest of my life. I will never forget:
- swimming in the Bay of Islands, then going under to see two dolphins joining me, one on each side
- leaping off the Kawarau Bridge and reaching the bottom and immediately releasing the hardest laugh of my life
- running into a busy street of Chiang Mai and splashing two motorcyclists with a bucket of water, turning around to the bar I was hanging out at in the late afternoon to see a slew of people laughing hysterically and clapping for me - it was my stage of water based hijinks, and you better believe I took a bow
- roaming the circular path around Koh Samui by motorbike, gleefully being my own radio as I belted out Bobby Darin's "Beyond the Sea" at the top of my lungs, realizing a lifelong dream in the most ridiculpous way possible
- speaking to numerous well known comic creators I admire with my 4 Color News and Brews co-anchor Brandon at Emerald City ComiCon and not only being recognized but thanked, and following that up with an unforgettable evening featuring Brandon and I participating in a live art show with two big artists in the industry. Not bad.
Worst Experience: Animal conditions in Chiang Mai Zoo (Thailand)
Why?: Animal love (not in a weird way) has been a consistent theme of my trip to date, and to see the conditions a lot of animals live in and the lack of respect they are given by visitors and staff alike was really hard to take. Two things in particular stood out: seeing a woman throw a partially eaten corn dog at an ostrich - stick and all - which easily could result in the animal dying by choking on the stick, and then seeing a baby elephant chained around the ankles (or whatever you would say for an elephant) and left out for anyone to come up and do whatever they wanted to it.
It was disgusting, and the latter was particularly distasteful given the image Thailand pushes on their audience of them being so caring for their beloved elephants. Then why don't you show it?
Biggest Cultural Transition: Lack of Constant Data Feed
Why?: Slot this one in as sad but true. In Alaska, on my phone I always have data and there is wifi everywhere for my laptop and iPad. Elsewhere? Not so much. Not having the ability to always be connected took some adjusting, even though I would easily admit how sad that is. I'm a creature of modern culture, so to not have email access and Facebooks and things of that sort was jarring at first. It has gotten to be less of a deal, but it such a weird thing to happen at all. Hook it to my veins?
Best Transportation: Japan
Why?: This isn't even a contest. The Shinkansen bullet trains in Japan are the best in the world - incredibly fast, quiet and comfortable, every city has a mass transit system that rivals the best in the world, and it all is an easy answer to the question "how do I get from here to there?" Throw in the JR pass I had that I just had to flash to a rail employee to get on almost any train no questions asked and you have the perfect system.
I love mass transit and it is a shame everywhere doesn't have the idea as well conceived as Japan does. If they did, everyone would use it.
Worst Transportation: Australia
Why?: Would you like to take a slow and shoddy bus or a cramped and unfriendly plane? Take your pick because there is no cost advantage on either side. I suppose at least the plane is fast, but still, the Australian experience was hampered by the transportation issues.
Best Accessories: Day Bag, iPad
Why?: I would be so screwed without my day bag. Granted, it has turned out to really just be a second bag, but I rarely go anywhere without it and it provides peace of mind and comfort (simply by not being my other huge bag). Plus, it was inexpensive. Great buy.
My iPad hasn't been a perfect option (I wish it had a webcam so I could Skype with people and that it had a USB so I could upload pics), but it has been convenient and extremely useful whenever I need a connection or a brief respite of entertainment. Bonus points for keeping me connected to my beloved comic world (I could easily see myself buying comics digitally now), giving me access to sweet, sweet B.S. Report podcasts from Bill Simmomns, and for keeping me active in my Fantasy Baseball league - second place baby!!!
Best Idea to Date: Getting a JR Pass Before Japan
Why?: The JR pass is ridiculously cost effective (I can't imagine how much I saved, but I can only assume it is roughly infinity dollars), it makes the act of train travel SUPER easy, and, unlike with its European counterpart the Eurail Pass, reservations are free. Super awesome! This was the gift that kept on giving.
Biggest Mistake To Date: Packing errors aplenty
Why?: If I had the chance to do anything over again, it would be how I packed. Too many pairs of underwear, weird choices like a Leatherman and flashlight I've never used, only one button up shirt, no coat, terrible shoes, and forgetting a towel. The thing that I really wish I had, of all of those, is more button ups. They are an easy way to make yourself look presentable without having to try too hard. Instead I have a ton of t-shirts and 3 sweaters I rarely use. Sigh...
Favorite Anything: The Constant First Time Experiences
Why?: I have done so many things for the first time on this trip I can barely even remember them all. Bungie jumping, hitch hiking, riding a motorbike, growing a beard, you name it, I have done it. I love them, as I firmly believe everything should be tried because you never know what will be your next new favorite thing.
Best Collectibles: Photos and Stamps
Why?: When I was in New Zealand with former coworkers Paulette and Sharee, Paulette wondered what I would do to remember my trip if I wasn't buying souvenirs and what not. The most straightforward answer I had was "I will just remember it." Which is true. But I suppose if I had to have something to really remember my trip with, I will fall back on the thousands of pictures I have taken. I mean, if a picture is worth a thousand words, then I am well into the millions. That is quite a few books worth of books, so I am quite good on the memory front.
One thing I love though is the collection of stamps I have gotten so far. Obviously I have gotten New Zealand, Japan, Thailand, Australia, England and the EU, but my favorite surprise had to be China. For some it would be annoying to go through passport control just for a transfer, but it got me a stamp! Not only that, but a sweet, evil looking one that seemed like it actually came from the Dharma Initiative. Yes!
Things I Miss the Most: Comics
Why?: Just a note - this does not include people or places! So please no one get worked up over this category.
While it is true that I have not really completely lost touch with comics (thanks to comic company review copies my site gets and occasional visits to international comic shops), I still miss going to get comics every Wednesday and devouring them step by step. I even miss writing reviews of the comics (although I still do this from time to time). And I really miss Friday nights at Brandon's, talking comics and drinking beer on camera for our tens of viewers to witness. I miss your musk Brandon! When this is all said and done I think we should get an apartment together.
Things I Don't Really Miss Surprisingly: New Movies, Music, etc.
Why?: I saw someone tweeting about the awesome of the new Beastie Boys album and I had a quick thought pop in my head. Who cares if I listen to this new music or see new movies now or when I get back? They won't be any different in July as they are now...so what is the big deal? I can just catch them then. Sure, the same goes for comics, but for some reason it genuinely feels like I am missing out on something when I am out of touch with them. Maybe because I am actually part of a community that talks about them all of the time.
Weirdest Phenomenon: Losing Where I Am
Sometimes I will be reading a book or the internet and I will completely forget where I am. I will be completely zoned out. Then I will look up and realize I am entirely surrounded by Japanese people and get really confused. It's a very jarring experience.1`1111 1`
First Thing I Am Going To Do Upon My Return: Middle Way Breakfast Burrito...and You Are All Invited
Showing posts with label New Zealand. Show all posts
Showing posts with label New Zealand. Show all posts
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Saturday, April 9, 2011
"You Sound Like You're From London!"
For some reason, my entire life I have naturally tracked trends of things that happen. Everything, not just meaningful things. For example, at my previous job I was lucky enough to have an office right by the bathroom. This led me to start noticing who went to the bathroom the most (and I was good at it!). I couldn't help it. I did it completely without thinking.
Now that I'm on my trip, it still is impossible to not notice things. The thing that is the most constant though is the nationalities if fellow travelers that I meet.
In case you have never been in one, hostels are set up typically with dorm rooms with between 4 and 10 beds per room. Given that you are all obviously relatively like minded individuals, you get to talking and where the person is from is invariably the first question (note: names sometimes never even come into the picture - in Brisbane there were two girls who simply knew me as "Alaska").
That's where the trending comes in, and the first point of this post: I genuinely believe there is no one left in England. They are CLEARLY all traveling. So far, Brits are the dominant traveling nationality I have met, and it isn't close. I've met hundreds of them, and now when someone says they are from England my response is a quiet "of course you are." Granted, this makes sense given the ties of Oceania and the UK as well as the omnipresent strength of the British Pound, but still, it is pretty incredible when I can be in one 10 bed dorm and 7 of the 10 are from England.
Sure, there are a lot of Germans around. Canadiens pop up fairly often as well, and you even have the occasional squib that shows up (I've met a really cool Iraqi and an absurdly cool Dane). Interestingly enough though, I have only met 4 American Backpackers so far in my travels. The funny thing too is that amongst Backpackers, Americans have bad reputations, and based off my experiences so far with them, I tend to believe they are earned.
A lot of the younger American Backpackers I've met are needy, ethnocentric, not understanding and kind of jerks (cue jokes about me from readers).
Interestingly enough though, I have been exempt from the negativity from travelers. It turns out that Alaska is universally interesting, whether it be based around their bizarre fascination with Sarah Palin, the beauty of the state, or any other awkward fact (my favorite Alaskan comment was from a hostel owner in Paihia - "You must love it here. I heard there are no women in Alaska!" - after which he laughed like a hyena). Seemingly, everyone watches reality shows about AK too, as I had three gents from Manchester (fancy that) quiz me about the Alaska State Troopers show, a slew of people ask me about Deadliest Catch and Ice Road Truckers, and even a few about Sarah Palin's Alaska. They think Alaska is the most interesting place ever, thus, I am interesting (psyche!!!).
Back to the point though, with me heading to Thailand today, I'm sure the demographic splits will shift. Who knows what the next dominant nationality will be? I don't know right now, but I can guarantee you I will know in about 8 days.
Stupid robot brain.
Music of the day: Andrew Bird, all of his stuff
Monday, March 28, 2011
New Zealand in Retrospect
It turns out New Zealand is just as beautiful and amazing as people hype it up to be.
True story.
Not only that, but the people are uniformly friendly. It's kind of jarring actually, just how friendly the people are. Everywhere you go the people are mellow, forgiving of stupidity (which I bring with a vengeance), kind, generous and all around class acts.
Think of this: the only people who picked me up hitchhiking were Kiwis, and this only took place in tourist heavy areas. Not only that, but three times when I approached a local for directions, they saw my request for a pointing finger and raised with a ride to the location itself.
In many parts of America, I would get a finger, but it would point skyward (which is fairly useless when you are looking for somewhere).
It is a remarkable place, and one of the nicest ones I have been to.
But oddly enough, I don't find myself saddened as I depart there. Maybe because I have so much adventure left ahead of me, but one way or another I am excited as I fly from Christchurch to Sydney.
Before I get into writing about Australia (which will come a day or so into that section), I wanted to look at the highlights of my New Zealand experience.
Favorite Place: Waiheke Island
Beautiful, relaxed, natural, inviting, friendly and completely unique, when I felt most unsure about NZ, this island and its 8 interconnected townships made the awesome rain all over me. With the best blend of culture, culinary and Caribbean like environs (sue me, I reached for the alliteration), this place was living a dream.
Favorite City: Dunedin
I've always said I wanted to live in a place that blended a college town vibe with city like amenities. Never had I found it until the brilliance of this city. Nestled into the south island, packing a punch from the robust musical and cuisine scenes while also being near the fertile wildlife sanctuaries of the Otago Peninsula, this place has a little something for everyone.
Even a hostel called Hogwartz.
Least Favorite Places: Paihia and Christchurch
A bit of advice, visit the Bay of Islands, but try to get out of Paihia as soon as possible. Mediocre and overpriced food and accommodations, frat party like vibe, and generally unfriendly people (probably because they are overburdened by rabid tourists), I spent two nights here and would have highly preferred one.
Christchurch kind of gets a pass because of the devastation that hit it with their earthquake, but man, it is the most confusing city I have ever been to. Finding your way through the city as a newbie is incredibly difficult, as streets seemingly cross with themselves and even the GPS we had changed its routes trip to trip due to what I can only guess is the electronic equivalent of throwing your hands in the air and saying "that's it!!!"
Most Underrated Place: Wanaka
Very little hype in Lonely Planet or within backpacker stories, Wanaka was a soothing four day balm to my weary traveling soul. Loaded with quality cafes, top hiking tracks, and a superb hostel and movie theater (both the YHA Purple Cow and Cinema Paradiso come highly recommended from yours truly), this is a fantastic place to lay low for a few days.
Especially in Puzzling World's maze. No one will find you there.
Favorite Experience: It's a tie! Swimming with dolphins in the Bay of Islands and bungie jumping outside of Queenstown
Confession time: growing up I loved dolphins (well, all cetaceans really) and I wanted to be a marine biologist. Swimming with them was short, but completely and utterly exhilarating. When I exited the water, I quickly gathered with other swimmers and rapidly shared experiences with them. "Did you?!" "Yeah!" "So close!" "Yeah!"
Warning: non-sensical excitement based shorthand occurs shortly after this experience.
Bungie jumping I've gone on and on about, but I think this somewhat revealed to me that I am a bit of an adrenaline junkie. A low level one, but whenever I do something "extreme" I approach it with fear and experience it with a transcendent level of jubilance. The bungie jumping experience, for me, was truly special, and something I highly suggest to anyone to try.
Biggest Disappointment: The Food
I am not a foodie - I am a food enthusiast.
With that said, everyone knows I love food, but New Zealand's food had very little that was special about it. Certain towns and cities did food well (Dunedin in particular) and they handled some dishes well (hello Eggs Benedict!), but for the most part, I found that the food was at best solid and at worst cholera inducing (don't ask).
Silver lining: New Zealand can make a mean cup of coffee and their beer, particularly Speight's, is top notch as well.
North Island or South Island?: North Island
For me personally, I found myself sadder to leave the North Island than I was to leave the South Island. The northern section seemed to offer more variety to your experience and seemed to have more options for your wayward traveler. I have to admit, I may have just preferred the warmer weather, but it seemed that my time in the north was too short while my south time was too long.
New Zealand as a whole, however, is the type of place I could see myself going back to live at. Blessed with an overabundance of things to do and good bang for my American dollar, i could see myself returning after acquiring a work visa. But I doubt it. Who knows, maybe Australia will be even more awesome? The flight sure is - Emirates Airlines RULES.
Music of the day: The Black Keys - Brothers
True story.
Not only that, but the people are uniformly friendly. It's kind of jarring actually, just how friendly the people are. Everywhere you go the people are mellow, forgiving of stupidity (which I bring with a vengeance), kind, generous and all around class acts.
Think of this: the only people who picked me up hitchhiking were Kiwis, and this only took place in tourist heavy areas. Not only that, but three times when I approached a local for directions, they saw my request for a pointing finger and raised with a ride to the location itself.
In many parts of America, I would get a finger, but it would point skyward (which is fairly useless when you are looking for somewhere).
It is a remarkable place, and one of the nicest ones I have been to.
But oddly enough, I don't find myself saddened as I depart there. Maybe because I have so much adventure left ahead of me, but one way or another I am excited as I fly from Christchurch to Sydney.
Before I get into writing about Australia (which will come a day or so into that section), I wanted to look at the highlights of my New Zealand experience.
Favorite Place: Waiheke Island
Beautiful, relaxed, natural, inviting, friendly and completely unique, when I felt most unsure about NZ, this island and its 8 interconnected townships made the awesome rain all over me. With the best blend of culture, culinary and Caribbean like environs (sue me, I reached for the alliteration), this place was living a dream.
Favorite City: Dunedin
I've always said I wanted to live in a place that blended a college town vibe with city like amenities. Never had I found it until the brilliance of this city. Nestled into the south island, packing a punch from the robust musical and cuisine scenes while also being near the fertile wildlife sanctuaries of the Otago Peninsula, this place has a little something for everyone.
Even a hostel called Hogwartz.
Least Favorite Places: Paihia and Christchurch
A bit of advice, visit the Bay of Islands, but try to get out of Paihia as soon as possible. Mediocre and overpriced food and accommodations, frat party like vibe, and generally unfriendly people (probably because they are overburdened by rabid tourists), I spent two nights here and would have highly preferred one.
Christchurch kind of gets a pass because of the devastation that hit it with their earthquake, but man, it is the most confusing city I have ever been to. Finding your way through the city as a newbie is incredibly difficult, as streets seemingly cross with themselves and even the GPS we had changed its routes trip to trip due to what I can only guess is the electronic equivalent of throwing your hands in the air and saying "that's it!!!"
Most Underrated Place: Wanaka
Very little hype in Lonely Planet or within backpacker stories, Wanaka was a soothing four day balm to my weary traveling soul. Loaded with quality cafes, top hiking tracks, and a superb hostel and movie theater (both the YHA Purple Cow and Cinema Paradiso come highly recommended from yours truly), this is a fantastic place to lay low for a few days.
Especially in Puzzling World's maze. No one will find you there.
Favorite Experience: It's a tie! Swimming with dolphins in the Bay of Islands and bungie jumping outside of Queenstown
Confession time: growing up I loved dolphins (well, all cetaceans really) and I wanted to be a marine biologist. Swimming with them was short, but completely and utterly exhilarating. When I exited the water, I quickly gathered with other swimmers and rapidly shared experiences with them. "Did you?!" "Yeah!" "So close!" "Yeah!"
Warning: non-sensical excitement based shorthand occurs shortly after this experience.
Bungie jumping I've gone on and on about, but I think this somewhat revealed to me that I am a bit of an adrenaline junkie. A low level one, but whenever I do something "extreme" I approach it with fear and experience it with a transcendent level of jubilance. The bungie jumping experience, for me, was truly special, and something I highly suggest to anyone to try.
Biggest Disappointment: The Food
I am not a foodie - I am a food enthusiast.
With that said, everyone knows I love food, but New Zealand's food had very little that was special about it. Certain towns and cities did food well (Dunedin in particular) and they handled some dishes well (hello Eggs Benedict!), but for the most part, I found that the food was at best solid and at worst cholera inducing (don't ask).
Silver lining: New Zealand can make a mean cup of coffee and their beer, particularly Speight's, is top notch as well.
North Island or South Island?: North Island
For me personally, I found myself sadder to leave the North Island than I was to leave the South Island. The northern section seemed to offer more variety to your experience and seemed to have more options for your wayward traveler. I have to admit, I may have just preferred the warmer weather, but it seemed that my time in the north was too short while my south time was too long.
New Zealand as a whole, however, is the type of place I could see myself going back to live at. Blessed with an overabundance of things to do and good bang for my American dollar, i could see myself returning after acquiring a work visa. But I doubt it. Who knows, maybe Australia will be even more awesome? The flight sure is - Emirates Airlines RULES.
Music of the day: The Black Keys - Brothers
Saturday, March 26, 2011
New Zealand: A Land of Firsts
Today is my last full day in New Zealand, and I am spending the majority of it transitioning from Wanaka to Christchurch via Naked Bus (hopefully no nudity will be required for entry, but that will be revealed in about an hour and 15 minutes). This is unsurprising given the amount of bus travel I went through while here, but it was all worth it (more on that later in my NZ Revisited post).
What I wanted to talk about here are the firsts I went through while in Kiwiland, because I did a surprising amount of things for the first time while here.
- Perhaps most impressively (and most surprisingly) I bungie jumped for the first time ever in Queenstown at the AJ Hackett Kawarau Bridge jump - 43 meters of pure awesome
- I hitchhiked for the first time (as well as a few times after that) - I highly doubt that will be the last time either
- I went snorkeling for the first time ever
- Better yet, I swam with dolphins for the first time (and good god do I hope it isn't the last)
- I had my first frisbee golf hole-in-one on the 10th hole of the Queenstown course
- I grew a "beard" for the first time (two points: my beard is a patchy hodgepodge of randomness, and this isn't really a NZ experience but it is something I'm doing for the first time while here
- First time seeing a penguin in the wild in person
Not a ton of things really, but a fun list of very memorable experiences. My Facebook page is now loaded with pictures for those that are interested in that type of thing. There are only 54 pics on there but I can say this - I took over 1000 pics, many of which are not so good (I subscribe to the quantity makes quality school of thought in photography).
Today New Zealand, tomorrow Australia. Here is hoping my first I get there is getting MDK'd by a massive spider as I sleep in the Outback.
Music of the day: Eluvium's "Copia" (the salve to my insomniac woes when my room is an oven and a girl is snoring something fierce)
What I wanted to talk about here are the firsts I went through while in Kiwiland, because I did a surprising amount of things for the first time while here.
- Perhaps most impressively (and most surprisingly) I bungie jumped for the first time ever in Queenstown at the AJ Hackett Kawarau Bridge jump - 43 meters of pure awesome
- I hitchhiked for the first time (as well as a few times after that) - I highly doubt that will be the last time either
- I went snorkeling for the first time ever
- Better yet, I swam with dolphins for the first time (and good god do I hope it isn't the last)
- I had my first frisbee golf hole-in-one on the 10th hole of the Queenstown course
- I grew a "beard" for the first time (two points: my beard is a patchy hodgepodge of randomness, and this isn't really a NZ experience but it is something I'm doing for the first time while here
- First time seeing a penguin in the wild in person
Not a ton of things really, but a fun list of very memorable experiences. My Facebook page is now loaded with pictures for those that are interested in that type of thing. There are only 54 pics on there but I can say this - I took over 1000 pics, many of which are not so good (I subscribe to the quantity makes quality school of thought in photography).
Today New Zealand, tomorrow Australia. Here is hoping my first I get there is getting MDK'd by a massive spider as I sleep in the Outback.
Music of the day: Eluvium's "Copia" (the salve to my insomniac woes when my room is an oven and a girl is snoring something fierce)
Friday, March 25, 2011
The Power of Twitter
Update: Patagonia said they cannot get me new shoes until I send my current ones back AND that they cannot send shoes internationally (which seems a tad contrary to their origins). So I guess I will be buying new shoes and throwing these ones in the trash. REI is still cool, but I officially will never be buying a Patagonia product again.
After just three weeks, my brand new Patagonia slip-on walking shoes are nearing their last rites. Given that I dropped $80 dollars for them at REI, I kind of feel like they should last just a bit longer, so my frustration was palpable last evening.
TO TWITTER I GO!!
For a wayward pacifist such as myself, instead of just buying new shoes or something of that sort, I passive aggressively tweeted lamentations about the quick death of my almost absurdly comfortable shoes. @ messaging Patagonia and REI in the process (I wanted them to be aware of my frustration - or at the very least their bots or PR firm), I awoke to a surprise: both REI and Patagonia responded.
It's a little early to tell, but it looks like papa is getting a new set of shoes - on the house of course. This was unintentional of course, as well as wholly welcome. Bravo to both companies for going above and beyond in customer service and turning my negative experience into a positive one.
Music of the Day: The 88 - Over and Over (pure pop for blissful sunny days)
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Gone Fishing...
Slow on the blog lately everyone, sorry! I'm hiding out in Wanaka, New Zealand for a few days at the end of my NZ trip to relax and get a vacation from my vacation. That means cooking, movies, sleeping in, hiking and being boring for a few days. So for those looking for exciting tales from Kiwiland, you won't be getting them from me for a bit.
There are stories to be told from days past, namely the superb frisbee golf course I found in Queenstown (and the hole in one I made), the impossibly cool movie theater here in Wanaka (google Cinema Paradiso), the Lord of the Rings tour Sharee and I took, and the sadness that comes from my phone no longer working. But you will get none of that until later my friends!
You also sadly will not be getting pictures (sorry Sara!). I cannot load pics on my iPad, thus I cannot share with you...yet. But my apologies, as I would very much like to share my journey with you. I just cannot yet.
Share comments with me people! I miss everyone something fierce (especially with my phone being a brick) so cheer me up with entertaining commentary.
There are stories to be told from days past, namely the superb frisbee golf course I found in Queenstown (and the hole in one I made), the impossibly cool movie theater here in Wanaka (google Cinema Paradiso), the Lord of the Rings tour Sharee and I took, and the sadness that comes from my phone no longer working. But you will get none of that until later my friends!
You also sadly will not be getting pictures (sorry Sara!). I cannot load pics on my iPad, thus I cannot share with you...yet. But my apologies, as I would very much like to share my journey with you. I just cannot yet.
Share comments with me people! I miss everyone something fierce (especially with my phone being a brick) so cheer me up with entertaining commentary.
Friday, March 18, 2011
To Dunedin and Beyond
Arriving into Dunedin late last night, I didn't get much of a feel for the place save for a few simple facts.
1) It had better architecture than everywhere else I had been I New Zealand to date
2) People love to party here (this is not derived from the fact I heard Eddie Murphy's "Party All The Time" playing in a the supermarket but from the fact St. Patrick's Day was welcomed by fleets of green wearing and beer chugging people of all ages)
3) It is a bit dirtier than most NZ cities as well
My evening did have the benefit of meeting some really cool people at a local bar and hearing some very interesting and fun stories, but for the most part it was calm and I didn't really get a good feel for the city at all.
Today on the other hand was like a Lonely Planet one-day itinerary from heaven for people traveling in Dunedin and the surrounding area. I went straight from the guidebook on this one and it led me to perhaps my favorite day yet in Kiwiland.
Highlights included:
- a ridiculously great breakfast at local haunt Governor's - I had the God's Benedict (eggs benedict) with bacon and hash browns and a latte. My best meal in NZ to date
- meeting an incredibly cool local musician named Matt Langley on the bus who told me all about the surrounding area and the New Zealand music scene
- honest-to-god hitchhiking (with the thumb and everything) for the first (and second (and third)) time in my life (I loved it)
- checking out the only Royal Albatross preserve in the world and catching two in flight and three fledglings chilling
- going to a Yellow Eyed Penguin preserve set up by an organization designed to stabilize and stimulate the endangered species population
- enjoying the weather in 6 to 8 kms of walking, taking in beautiful vistas as I go while also almost tripping on a sea lion (which likely would have resulted in my death)
- a superb dinner at local Vietnamese eatery Saigon Van, taking in crispy spring rolls and a braised pork and egg entree that replenished my diminished energy cells
Not a bad day, and if you throw in the fact that I am writing this from the best hostel I have ever been (that just so happens to be named Hogwartz) in an incredibly comfy bed in a room filled with delightful people and you have one guy who is an unhappy camper because of his pending departure from Dunedin.
This city bridges my favorite elements of college towns and major cities, giving it a feel that sends it skyrocketing up my list of favorite cities I have ever been to. The fact that tomorrow could have given me the chance to see my first rugby match AND a six act show of Kiwi bands on the relative cheap just makes me all the more bummed out to leave.
Dunedin, I will be truly sad to depart you come tomorrow.
Music of the day: Katrina and the Waves - Walkin' on Sunshine (whoaaaaaohohhhhh!)
1) It had better architecture than everywhere else I had been I New Zealand to date
2) People love to party here (this is not derived from the fact I heard Eddie Murphy's "Party All The Time" playing in a the supermarket but from the fact St. Patrick's Day was welcomed by fleets of green wearing and beer chugging people of all ages)
3) It is a bit dirtier than most NZ cities as well
My evening did have the benefit of meeting some really cool people at a local bar and hearing some very interesting and fun stories, but for the most part it was calm and I didn't really get a good feel for the city at all.
Today on the other hand was like a Lonely Planet one-day itinerary from heaven for people traveling in Dunedin and the surrounding area. I went straight from the guidebook on this one and it led me to perhaps my favorite day yet in Kiwiland.
Highlights included:
- a ridiculously great breakfast at local haunt Governor's - I had the God's Benedict (eggs benedict) with bacon and hash browns and a latte. My best meal in NZ to date
- meeting an incredibly cool local musician named Matt Langley on the bus who told me all about the surrounding area and the New Zealand music scene
- honest-to-god hitchhiking (with the thumb and everything) for the first (and second (and third)) time in my life (I loved it)
- checking out the only Royal Albatross preserve in the world and catching two in flight and three fledglings chilling
- going to a Yellow Eyed Penguin preserve set up by an organization designed to stabilize and stimulate the endangered species population
- enjoying the weather in 6 to 8 kms of walking, taking in beautiful vistas as I go while also almost tripping on a sea lion (which likely would have resulted in my death)
- a superb dinner at local Vietnamese eatery Saigon Van, taking in crispy spring rolls and a braised pork and egg entree that replenished my diminished energy cells
Not a bad day, and if you throw in the fact that I am writing this from the best hostel I have ever been (that just so happens to be named Hogwartz) in an incredibly comfy bed in a room filled with delightful people and you have one guy who is an unhappy camper because of his pending departure from Dunedin.
This city bridges my favorite elements of college towns and major cities, giving it a feel that sends it skyrocketing up my list of favorite cities I have ever been to. The fact that tomorrow could have given me the chance to see my first rugby match AND a six act show of Kiwi bands on the relative cheap just makes me all the more bummed out to leave.
Dunedin, I will be truly sad to depart you come tomorrow.
Music of the day: Katrina and the Waves - Walkin' on Sunshine (whoaaaaaohohhhhh!)
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Money for Nothing and Your Chicks for Free
I think one of the biggest misconceptions about vacation and my trip is that there is the prerequisite attached to it that it needs to be expensive. Sure, flying around the world has a lot of inherent cost to it, especially if you aren't going to places that are dirt cheap to begin with.
And let me tell you, my itinerary pulls no punches when it comes to savings. Europe, Australia and Japan are some of the most expensive places you can visit, and by god, I am making them happen.
But still, the past couple days proves that really memorable experiences can be had for free.
The last few days I have been traveling with former coworkers (and friends) Sharee and Paulette. They had already planned on being here well before my trip was announced, so the three of us are meeting up in New Zealand and Australia for some team traveling and good times.
The first day, we joint ventured our way to Christchurch on the South Island of NZ. Because of their recent earthquake, the city itself is in disarray, with many Kiwis left without homes and the entire city being found without potable drinking water from the tap (well, without boiling that is).
We quickly ventured off to gather supplies for our time in this city, before we ran into the city centre accidentally. This is the area that was most heavily affected by the quake, and I have to say that this place was the closest in feel to being in a zombie apocalypse I have ever been and likely ever will be (presuming an actual zombie apocalypse does not strike, in which case I will be ready and willing with my Louisville Slugger). The streets were dead - not undead - and every conceivable waypoint into the famed core of the city was blocked off by fatigue and beret wearing soldiers backed by APC's.
It felt like a scene from Cillian Murphy's early walk through London in 28 Days Later inserted into my life. It was eerie, chilling and really intriguing.
It put into perspective what I will likely be facing in Japan, but amplified to a significant degree.
Regardless, my mind kept going back to that experience as one that was completely unlike anything I had ever done. I wouldn't say I loved the experience because that would be uncool, but I did find it to be intensely memorable.
Because the city was pretty much shut off, I convinced the ladies to take a day trip to nearby Kaikoura the next day, a city famed for its marine life and bevy of excursions available to incoming tourists. Having just missed out on the whale watching tour, the three of us split: Sharee and Paulette shopped and lunched while I went off on my own to go on the 3.5 hour peninsula hike that was, you guessed it, free.
What followed was one of the best nature days in my life, as I explored New Zealand's coastline on a gorgeous day, checking out a couple seal colonies, observing some of NZ's incredible avian life (namely the Tree Penguin, or the more apt term, Shag), and, oddly enough, roaming through a field of cattle (all of whom seemed as surprised to see me as I was to see them).
It was a superb day, and one that really showed a lot of what people envision when they think of New Zealand.
Both experiences quickly leapt up my travel list in terms of favorites, especially with the added weight tied to the fact they were free and really unique.
Today though brought more money to be spent, as I left Sharee and Paulette for Dunedin in the south. I'm on a bus as I type headed to experience the famed Dunedin nightlife on St. Patrick's Day, visit nearby Albatross and Penguin colonies on the nearby Otago Peninsula, and potentially checking out the Cadbury factory (where I could see the Cadbury Egg you eat on Easter be crafted!!). Plus, I am staying the night in a hostel named Hogwartz.
Seriously. How could that be not amazing?
The only thing ruining my good mood is the first appearance of dismal weather, as windows of the bus are streaked with rain and the blue sky and sunshine that highlighted my first 8 days a thing of the past.
Here's hoping I wake to a return of beautiful weather, and my travels continue to be as memorable and inexpensive as they have been to date.
Music of the day: Spoon's discography
And let me tell you, my itinerary pulls no punches when it comes to savings. Europe, Australia and Japan are some of the most expensive places you can visit, and by god, I am making them happen.
But still, the past couple days proves that really memorable experiences can be had for free.
The last few days I have been traveling with former coworkers (and friends) Sharee and Paulette. They had already planned on being here well before my trip was announced, so the three of us are meeting up in New Zealand and Australia for some team traveling and good times.
The first day, we joint ventured our way to Christchurch on the South Island of NZ. Because of their recent earthquake, the city itself is in disarray, with many Kiwis left without homes and the entire city being found without potable drinking water from the tap (well, without boiling that is).
We quickly ventured off to gather supplies for our time in this city, before we ran into the city centre accidentally. This is the area that was most heavily affected by the quake, and I have to say that this place was the closest in feel to being in a zombie apocalypse I have ever been and likely ever will be (presuming an actual zombie apocalypse does not strike, in which case I will be ready and willing with my Louisville Slugger). The streets were dead - not undead - and every conceivable waypoint into the famed core of the city was blocked off by fatigue and beret wearing soldiers backed by APC's.
It felt like a scene from Cillian Murphy's early walk through London in 28 Days Later inserted into my life. It was eerie, chilling and really intriguing.
It put into perspective what I will likely be facing in Japan, but amplified to a significant degree.
Regardless, my mind kept going back to that experience as one that was completely unlike anything I had ever done. I wouldn't say I loved the experience because that would be uncool, but I did find it to be intensely memorable.
Because the city was pretty much shut off, I convinced the ladies to take a day trip to nearby Kaikoura the next day, a city famed for its marine life and bevy of excursions available to incoming tourists. Having just missed out on the whale watching tour, the three of us split: Sharee and Paulette shopped and lunched while I went off on my own to go on the 3.5 hour peninsula hike that was, you guessed it, free.
What followed was one of the best nature days in my life, as I explored New Zealand's coastline on a gorgeous day, checking out a couple seal colonies, observing some of NZ's incredible avian life (namely the Tree Penguin, or the more apt term, Shag), and, oddly enough, roaming through a field of cattle (all of whom seemed as surprised to see me as I was to see them).
It was a superb day, and one that really showed a lot of what people envision when they think of New Zealand.
Both experiences quickly leapt up my travel list in terms of favorites, especially with the added weight tied to the fact they were free and really unique.
Today though brought more money to be spent, as I left Sharee and Paulette for Dunedin in the south. I'm on a bus as I type headed to experience the famed Dunedin nightlife on St. Patrick's Day, visit nearby Albatross and Penguin colonies on the nearby Otago Peninsula, and potentially checking out the Cadbury factory (where I could see the Cadbury Egg you eat on Easter be crafted!!). Plus, I am staying the night in a hostel named Hogwartz.
Seriously. How could that be not amazing?
The only thing ruining my good mood is the first appearance of dismal weather, as windows of the bus are streaked with rain and the blue sky and sunshine that highlighted my first 8 days a thing of the past.
Here's hoping I wake to a return of beautiful weather, and my travels continue to be as memorable and inexpensive as they have been to date.
Music of the day: Spoon's discography
Monday, March 14, 2011
Day Six: North Island's Last Hurrah
My last full day on New Zealand's North Island was spent in the smelly but oddly charming Rotorua. A locale that alternately earned praise (from my friend Kellie) and derision (from Paihia hostel mate Karis), I went there for one purpose: to get my hobbit on.
Yes, I went stereotypical on my last day, as I went and did a tour of Hobbiton in Matamata. Unsurprisingly, this is where I met the most Americans (had only met one in the previous 5 days combined), but it was definitely an entertaining time and fit the theme I started in Europe2K9 of going on ridiculous movie tours. I cannot go into detail about what I saw/heard (Peter Jackson laid down mandates about social media and blogging by visitors), I can say it was a dorky delight for me.
Plus, it was just a great way to spend a beautiful Monday, and randomly threw in a hugely entertaining sheep shearing demo and the ability to feed young lambs. Fun!
I went back to Rotorua and had a couple hours to kill, so I hopped off at Te Puia and quickly learned a lot about local Maori culture and observed some superb geyser action. The area is known for its geothermal geysers (hence the reason why it smells like Nightcrawler just bamfed out always - only Brandon will get that), and the one at Te Puia - Pohutu - is particularly renowned. Definitely a good and informative way to use the afternoon.
After that, my favorite parts of the day took place. First off, I asked for directions from - wait for it - an old woman who quickly offered to drive me to the town's I-site (convenient information centers that exist everywhere in New Zealand) just because. Her name was Anne and she was quick to offer ideas of ways go use my time while in Rotorua and beyond. She didn't offer me a place to stay the night, but she was extremely friendly.
Then, at the I-site, I asked for restaurant advice from an employee of the bus section who quickly suggested a cafe named Zippy's.
As many of you know, I am a freak about my food. I am not a foodie though - I prefer the term food enthusiast or, if you've seen me eat, a food exhibitionist. This little joint nearby offered my wayward soul a brief respite in the form of a perfect tuna melt (with complimentary avocado when I asked for it), the best coffee I have had in New Zealand and phenomenal atmosphere from the staff, decor and music (more on that at the end). Plus, free wifi AND a place to plug-in (which has been an eternal struggle got me). In short, I loved it.
All in all, a very nice little day to close out my North Island adventure. I mean, come on, I am writing this on a bus to Auckland staring at open farmland, mountains and the sun. Not too bad. I am definitely a fan of it, and hope the South Island and my time with Sharee and Paulette can live up to it.
Music of the Day: The Naked + Famous (heard them for the first time on KRUA in Anchorage, heard them a second time in Zippy's, seen their name around a lot lately...I have to say I am very impressed)
Yes, I went stereotypical on my last day, as I went and did a tour of Hobbiton in Matamata. Unsurprisingly, this is where I met the most Americans (had only met one in the previous 5 days combined), but it was definitely an entertaining time and fit the theme I started in Europe2K9 of going on ridiculous movie tours. I cannot go into detail about what I saw/heard (Peter Jackson laid down mandates about social media and blogging by visitors), I can say it was a dorky delight for me.
Plus, it was just a great way to spend a beautiful Monday, and randomly threw in a hugely entertaining sheep shearing demo and the ability to feed young lambs. Fun!
I went back to Rotorua and had a couple hours to kill, so I hopped off at Te Puia and quickly learned a lot about local Maori culture and observed some superb geyser action. The area is known for its geothermal geysers (hence the reason why it smells like Nightcrawler just bamfed out always - only Brandon will get that), and the one at Te Puia - Pohutu - is particularly renowned. Definitely a good and informative way to use the afternoon.
After that, my favorite parts of the day took place. First off, I asked for directions from - wait for it - an old woman who quickly offered to drive me to the town's I-site (convenient information centers that exist everywhere in New Zealand) just because. Her name was Anne and she was quick to offer ideas of ways go use my time while in Rotorua and beyond. She didn't offer me a place to stay the night, but she was extremely friendly.
Then, at the I-site, I asked for restaurant advice from an employee of the bus section who quickly suggested a cafe named Zippy's.
As many of you know, I am a freak about my food. I am not a foodie though - I prefer the term food enthusiast or, if you've seen me eat, a food exhibitionist. This little joint nearby offered my wayward soul a brief respite in the form of a perfect tuna melt (with complimentary avocado when I asked for it), the best coffee I have had in New Zealand and phenomenal atmosphere from the staff, decor and music (more on that at the end). Plus, free wifi AND a place to plug-in (which has been an eternal struggle got me). In short, I loved it.
All in all, a very nice little day to close out my North Island adventure. I mean, come on, I am writing this on a bus to Auckland staring at open farmland, mountains and the sun. Not too bad. I am definitely a fan of it, and hope the South Island and my time with Sharee and Paulette can live up to it.
Music of the Day: The Naked + Famous (heard them for the first time on KRUA in Anchorage, heard them a second time in Zippy's, seen their name around a lot lately...I have to say I am very impressed)
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Interlude: Harbinger of Doom
As you may or may not know, my trip was going to be big in Japan come April 19th. In true me fashion though, disaster struck as a huge earthquake, tsunami and nuclear plant related issues all befell northern Japan in recent days.
Why is that in true me fashion? Well, I have recently described myself as the Harbinger of Doom (fittingly given the fact my friend Brandon compared my one comic appearance to one by Terrax, one of Galactus' harbingers), as my trips are always timed around natural disasters that directly affect my trip and precede my arrival by a few weeks.
That list includes:
- Italy 2009: huge earthquake in the south of Italy
- Coachella 2010: Icelandic volcano strands many bands from appearing at festival
- Christchurch 2011: weeks before my arrival, it is flattened by an earthquake
And now this.
Maybe there is something to this idea.
The last three days have been a sandwich composed of unremarkable bread and delicious dolphin meat (not a perfect visualization, but work with me). Two travel days sticking me in okay places for a time (namely the wholly okay Paihia, a beachfront town that acts like an expansive Kiwi frat) just so I can go visit the Bay of Islands, swim with dolphins and get my hobbit on in Hobbiton.
That last item is what I am doing tomorrow and the previous ones are what I did on Saturday and HOLY crap was that amazing. Swimming with dolphins was easily one of the most memorable things I have ever done, and I immediately want to get to snorkeling more often. The Bay of Islands themselves was some of the most breathtaking visuals I have ever experienced.
It has been an amazing time so far but I have quickly made some realizations about this trip. Let us look at some random notes so far:
- I should have spent more time in less places (I need a lot more time on the North Island of New Zealand)
- Free WiFi is a myth in New Zealand
- I may actually be able to pull off a beard (yes I am growing one, but mostly out of laziness and not out of desire of hipster appeal)
- "What's New Pussycat?" is somehow the theme of the trip, thanks to Brianna and Ivan in Seattle, an odd Spanish cover on a bus to Paihia, and 20 acapella singing German girls who did not know anything besides the chorus but decided they wanted to sing it over and over for 10 minutes at 2 am Friday night at my hostel in Paihia
- Older people love me, as every older person I meet invites me for rides, meals or staying the night in their home
- Traveling is a small world - I stayed the night with the same girl two times in three nights in two cities, and a second I stayed with is going to be in Thailand at the same time as me
- Visualizing Godzilla coming out of the water while on the open sea is one of the quickest ways to freak me out
- I am AWFUL at snorkeling
- My interviews from Emerald City ComiCon are up
That is it for now. My temporarily free WiFi from the coffee shop I am in near the bus depot nears its conclusion, so conclude I must. The trip continues on, and the next week should be an exciting one on a brand new island (that seems to be very Alaskan in many ways). Here is hoping it goes as well as the first island.
Music of the day: The Postal Service - Give Up
Why is that in true me fashion? Well, I have recently described myself as the Harbinger of Doom (fittingly given the fact my friend Brandon compared my one comic appearance to one by Terrax, one of Galactus' harbingers), as my trips are always timed around natural disasters that directly affect my trip and precede my arrival by a few weeks.
That list includes:
- Italy 2009: huge earthquake in the south of Italy
- Coachella 2010: Icelandic volcano strands many bands from appearing at festival
- Christchurch 2011: weeks before my arrival, it is flattened by an earthquake
And now this.
Maybe there is something to this idea.
The last three days have been a sandwich composed of unremarkable bread and delicious dolphin meat (not a perfect visualization, but work with me). Two travel days sticking me in okay places for a time (namely the wholly okay Paihia, a beachfront town that acts like an expansive Kiwi frat) just so I can go visit the Bay of Islands, swim with dolphins and get my hobbit on in Hobbiton.
That last item is what I am doing tomorrow and the previous ones are what I did on Saturday and HOLY crap was that amazing. Swimming with dolphins was easily one of the most memorable things I have ever done, and I immediately want to get to snorkeling more often. The Bay of Islands themselves was some of the most breathtaking visuals I have ever experienced.
It has been an amazing time so far but I have quickly made some realizations about this trip. Let us look at some random notes so far:
- I should have spent more time in less places (I need a lot more time on the North Island of New Zealand)
- Free WiFi is a myth in New Zealand
- I may actually be able to pull off a beard (yes I am growing one, but mostly out of laziness and not out of desire of hipster appeal)
- "What's New Pussycat?" is somehow the theme of the trip, thanks to Brianna and Ivan in Seattle, an odd Spanish cover on a bus to Paihia, and 20 acapella singing German girls who did not know anything besides the chorus but decided they wanted to sing it over and over for 10 minutes at 2 am Friday night at my hostel in Paihia
- Older people love me, as every older person I meet invites me for rides, meals or staying the night in their home
- Traveling is a small world - I stayed the night with the same girl two times in three nights in two cities, and a second I stayed with is going to be in Thailand at the same time as me
- Visualizing Godzilla coming out of the water while on the open sea is one of the quickest ways to freak me out
- I am AWFUL at snorkeling
- My interviews from Emerald City ComiCon are up
That is it for now. My temporarily free WiFi from the coffee shop I am in near the bus depot nears its conclusion, so conclude I must. The trip continues on, and the next week should be an exciting one on a brand new island (that seems to be very Alaskan in many ways). Here is hoping it goes as well as the first island.
Music of the day: The Postal Service - Give Up
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Day Two: Waiheke Boogaloo
I think I am in love.
The fact that my love is for a 28 km land mass is inconsequential of course. That land mass is Waiheke Island, the locale I spent almost my entire second day at.
Waiheke reminds me of what Hawaii would look like if it had a lovechild with Cinque Terre in Italy. It is a marvelous place filled with enough character and charm to make me want to live there right now! (seriously, who is coming with me?!)
The island connects 8 different small townships, many of which are beachfront locations, into a truly unique and natural feeling place. It may be an hour away from Auckland but it feels like a while different world.
Every town seems to have a little niche of their own, but my favorites were Oneroa and Onatangi. Both I had phenomenal dining experiences in as well gorgeous beach ventures.
The former's restaurant of choice was the Lazy Lounge, a vivacious cafe with tons of coffee, beer and liquor choices as well as a menu that bridged the gap between meat fearing hippies and seafood craving doodies. Plus, they had a collage on their counter of various famous people, including a section that appeared to only be famous people wearing Hawaiian shirts (which I found to be spectacular).
Sadly, Oneroa also had an awful dining experience, as a recommended Turkish joint named Delight served mediocre and over priced Lamb Kebab while pairing it with villainous service (I was told I could not eat in because they had reservations...when there was literally no one else in the restaurant).
Salt Seafood Restaurant and Art Bar was a charming place that I had a lovely plate of breads with assorted sauces and dips along with some ridiculously good wine for a reasonable price. Throw in a super cool waiter, great tunes and free wifi from a neighboring restaurant (as well as an Oceanside view) and you have a pitch perfect snack place.
While this network of villages would be worth a visit just with the artistic vibe and foodie culture that proliferates it, I would say the thing that made the day standout so much are the residents of the island. I met two people - Carol and Syd - who offered me a place to stay and a ride separately after only a short time of knowingn them. They also walked me through the political, geographical and social history of the island, and it made the experience as a whole so much more special.
To me, Waiheke Island is the New Zealand I always wanted, quite like Cinque Terre was the Italy I always wanted. To have found it on my second day was a remarkable thing indeed, and I was truly sad to leave at the end of the day.
Of course, my day concluded at a table in my hostel, drinking Duvel and eating Borsch and befriending three Brits, a French girl, a Ukrainian man, and two Germans over topics ranging from Black Swan to the pairing of Ugg Boots and micro skirts to the visitation of dingoes in their natural setting.
If anything can be learned from my second day, it is this: going into a situation with expectations can lead to disappointment, but going into one open to anything can lead to magic. Did I expect to spend my day with a frail woman from Waiheke talking big businesses invasion of their land or to spend it with a Borsch pushing, beefy Ukrainian man? No way.
But I would never want it to be any different than it turned out.
Music of the day: The Pixies - Doolittle
The fact that my love is for a 28 km land mass is inconsequential of course. That land mass is Waiheke Island, the locale I spent almost my entire second day at.
Waiheke reminds me of what Hawaii would look like if it had a lovechild with Cinque Terre in Italy. It is a marvelous place filled with enough character and charm to make me want to live there right now! (seriously, who is coming with me?!)
The island connects 8 different small townships, many of which are beachfront locations, into a truly unique and natural feeling place. It may be an hour away from Auckland but it feels like a while different world.
Every town seems to have a little niche of their own, but my favorites were Oneroa and Onatangi. Both I had phenomenal dining experiences in as well gorgeous beach ventures.
The former's restaurant of choice was the Lazy Lounge, a vivacious cafe with tons of coffee, beer and liquor choices as well as a menu that bridged the gap between meat fearing hippies and seafood craving doodies. Plus, they had a collage on their counter of various famous people, including a section that appeared to only be famous people wearing Hawaiian shirts (which I found to be spectacular).
Sadly, Oneroa also had an awful dining experience, as a recommended Turkish joint named Delight served mediocre and over priced Lamb Kebab while pairing it with villainous service (I was told I could not eat in because they had reservations...when there was literally no one else in the restaurant).
Salt Seafood Restaurant and Art Bar was a charming place that I had a lovely plate of breads with assorted sauces and dips along with some ridiculously good wine for a reasonable price. Throw in a super cool waiter, great tunes and free wifi from a neighboring restaurant (as well as an Oceanside view) and you have a pitch perfect snack place.
While this network of villages would be worth a visit just with the artistic vibe and foodie culture that proliferates it, I would say the thing that made the day standout so much are the residents of the island. I met two people - Carol and Syd - who offered me a place to stay and a ride separately after only a short time of knowingn them. They also walked me through the political, geographical and social history of the island, and it made the experience as a whole so much more special.
To me, Waiheke Island is the New Zealand I always wanted, quite like Cinque Terre was the Italy I always wanted. To have found it on my second day was a remarkable thing indeed, and I was truly sad to leave at the end of the day.
Of course, my day concluded at a table in my hostel, drinking Duvel and eating Borsch and befriending three Brits, a French girl, a Ukrainian man, and two Germans over topics ranging from Black Swan to the pairing of Ugg Boots and micro skirts to the visitation of dingoes in their natural setting.
If anything can be learned from my second day, it is this: going into a situation with expectations can lead to disappointment, but going into one open to anything can lead to magic. Did I expect to spend my day with a frail woman from Waiheke talking big businesses invasion of their land or to spend it with a Borsch pushing, beefy Ukrainian man? No way.
But I would never want it to be any different than it turned out.
Music of the day: The Pixies - Doolittle
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Day Zero: San Francisco to Auckland
On my first international flight of my trip writing my first official post for this blog and I have already learned an important lesson: always use air miles. Or at the very least collect them.
Thankfully, I am collecting them (due to some remarkably good selling by the United Airlines employee at the Sea Tac Airport, but I really need to start doing so going forward.
The other lesson I learned was always fly Air New Zealand when given the chance. Comfortable, spacious seats, free movies that you get to choose from (I went with the last Best Picture nominee I had not seen yet - the excellent Winter's Bone), and tasty food that came with the flight instead of having to be paid for separately.
In short, it's the exact opposite of Alaska Airlines.
The trip besides the flight has started out remarkably well. Emerald City ComiCon was a huge hit, as my podcast co-host Brandon and I were recognized somewhat regularly by comic creators. While we did have a bit of a fiasco with our camera situation, we still were able to swing 4 interviews and make some superb contacts with comic folk as well.
It's tough for me sometimes because of how difficult it is for me with "celebrities." Sometimes I act like a complete crazy person around people I idolize (see: how Troy acts when he meets Levar Burton in "Community"), but I think I managed to do a good enough job this time.
Besides that, my friend Erik came up to visit and we ended up making some rather unforgettable memories with his friends Marcie, Brianna and Ivan. It was one of the best weekends I've ever had in terms of sheer fun, and I'm already excited for next year and hope everyone will join Brandon and I once again.
5 days in, traveling from today to two days from now. My trip is off to a remarkably good start. It's time for rest, and when I awaken I will be in a place that is over 10,000 miles from my home. It's a scary thought, but I think a little uncomfortableness is good for a person from time to time.
Music of the day: anything and everything Celtic Thunder.
Or, more seriously, my favorite mix ever, but especially the Nina Simone jam off it ("men cluster to me like moths around a flame/and if their wings burn I know I'm not to blame") or the Jeff Magnum cover of a Phil Spector song ("but darling most of all/I love how you love me"). Pretty much perfect.
Thankfully, I am collecting them (due to some remarkably good selling by the United Airlines employee at the Sea Tac Airport, but I really need to start doing so going forward.
The other lesson I learned was always fly Air New Zealand when given the chance. Comfortable, spacious seats, free movies that you get to choose from (I went with the last Best Picture nominee I had not seen yet - the excellent Winter's Bone), and tasty food that came with the flight instead of having to be paid for separately.
In short, it's the exact opposite of Alaska Airlines.
The trip besides the flight has started out remarkably well. Emerald City ComiCon was a huge hit, as my podcast co-host Brandon and I were recognized somewhat regularly by comic creators. While we did have a bit of a fiasco with our camera situation, we still were able to swing 4 interviews and make some superb contacts with comic folk as well.
It's tough for me sometimes because of how difficult it is for me with "celebrities." Sometimes I act like a complete crazy person around people I idolize (see: how Troy acts when he meets Levar Burton in "Community"), but I think I managed to do a good enough job this time.
Besides that, my friend Erik came up to visit and we ended up making some rather unforgettable memories with his friends Marcie, Brianna and Ivan. It was one of the best weekends I've ever had in terms of sheer fun, and I'm already excited for next year and hope everyone will join Brandon and I once again.
5 days in, traveling from today to two days from now. My trip is off to a remarkably good start. It's time for rest, and when I awaken I will be in a place that is over 10,000 miles from my home. It's a scary thought, but I think a little uncomfortableness is good for a person from time to time.
Music of the day: anything and everything Celtic Thunder.
Or, more seriously, my favorite mix ever, but especially the Nina Simone jam off it ("men cluster to me like moths around a flame/and if their wings burn I know I'm not to blame") or the Jeff Magnum cover of a Phil Spector song ("but darling most of all/I love how you love me"). Pretty much perfect.
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