Tomorrow I will finally cross the International Date Line. So I will fly to the past – departure at June 12 and arrival at June 11. Weird feeling 😜
Find a lost parcel all over the world
When I had been in Kuala Lumpur, I sent a parcel with some personal belongings and souvenirs to Germany. I had no permanent address in Malaysia, so I declared my home address as sender, too. Luckily I had a tracking number.
After a few weeks my parcel turned out as lost as there was an issue at the customs and it was returned to sender. I contacted the customer service of POS Malaysia, which was an exhausting, annoying experience with no result. But I could find out the phone number of the post office where I gave my parcel away. And after a few calls, I get in touch with a helpful employee of POS Malaysia.
As the phone connection was quite bad, we exchanged phone numbers to communicate via WhatsApp. And actually he found my parcel! So it was definitely in Kuala Lumpur now.
Well, and I was looking for a cheap flight connection between Japan and Auckland for my further travels, and the Air Asia flights via Kuala Lumpur are usually the cheapest. But I could only made it on a Saturday, when the post office closes at 01 pm. I found a flight with seven hours stopover in Kuala Lumpur, but with an arrival time in the late afternoon. He really offered to wait until I arrive! So we arranged an appointment.
And I went to Kuala Lumpur, I got my parcel back and he invited me for dinner, too. It’s such a nice, helpful and altruistic manner! It confirmed my first impression of the lovely people in Kuala Lumpur.
Nara
Nara’s main attraction is the Nara Park, a park with lots of ancient temples and pagodas, and full of friendly deer. There are feed by the visitors (you can buy a special deer cake, “shika-senbei”), so they are used to it and posing with the visitors obligingly. Well, I haven’t feed them. The other group in the park had been hundreds of kids from primary school. They interviewed the foreign visitors to practice their English skills, and gave them a handmade origami as present. So I went back with my rented bicycle and pockets full of origami.
Kyoto
Kyoto was a big recommendation of many travelers I’ve met on my way. Of course I had to go there! And I arrived at a pretty, cozy city, a nice place to stroll around without any destination, it will always be exciting. But without missing the main attractions, the Bamboo Forest next to the Tenryū-ji Temple (another UNESCO world heritage site in Japan) and the Fushimi Inari Shrine with its popular red gates (Torii).
Japanese cuisine: DIY Sushi
As I’m always looking for cheap but yummy food, I was happy as I discovered this Sushi Hand Roll in a convenience store. You get Nori (seaweed sheets) and the rice with various fillings separately and roll your ready-to-eat sushi by yourself. One roll is about 1,00 EUR – 1,20 EUR and you get six pieces of Maki Sushi. I would be happy if I could get that in Germany, too 😋 “Itadakimasu!”
Mt.Fuji (Fujisan)
The past few days I stayed in Fujikawaguchiko, which is a great place to discover one of Japan’s UNESCO world heritage sites, the Mt.Fuji. I rented an e-bike and drove along the local lakes, Lake Kawaguchiko and Lake Saiko, which offer an amazing view to the highest mountain of Japan. And I took the Hiking Bus to walk along the routes Oniwa, Okuniwa and Ochudo up to the Mt.Fuji fifth stage.
Tokyo
Tokyo is one of the most vibrant cities I’ve ever seen. Next to the ancient temples you see the futuristic architecture, the functional technologies and intriguing wonders.
9 million inhabitants share an area only twice the size of Munich. That’s why almost every café, restaurant, shop, even every location is extended over several floors. Smoking outdoors is only allowed at a few designated areas, but almost every location has a nice smoking area.
And Tokyo is definitely the best place to discover the geekiness of Japanese people. I’ve seen so many crazy, surprising, but still convenient stuff. I could stop every few steps and discover something I’ve never seen before. Being in Tokyo seems a bit like being in the future.
Palau
Usually I would set an amazing landscape scene as featured image when I publish a post about a beautiful place. And Palau offers a lot of magnificent views which would be really worth it. But the beauty of Palau’s islands are not my main memories. These are the people I’ve met there.
Whenever I saw this popular picture of the Rock Islands from a bird’s eye, the desire simply to get up and go came over me. Even it is quite expensive to go there, it was a must to travel to Palau when I’m nearby. The landscape is composed by hundreds of limestone islands, overgrown with tropical jungle. Surrounded by the turquoise water of the West Pacific, which offers a spectacular marine life. I’ve spotted reef sharks for the first time in my life (btw in Palau is the worlds first shark sanctuary), mantas, lots of turtles, giant shells (I guess up to 1 meter), diverse soft and hard corals. Only a few, but very special jellyfishes – unfortunately there are no more jellyfishes in the famous Jellyfish Lake. The most stunning spot was Big Drop Off, an endless vertical wall with thousands of small and big fishes. After snorkeling for two days, I booked a day trip at a dive center in Koror and made two dives at Dexter’s Wall and Blue Holes (Blue Corner). Last one was really spectacular as we dropped down in a hole and arrived in a huge cavern at a depth of 23 meters (my diving license allows to dive down only up to 18 meters, but my guide simply said: “That’s Palau. Sorry!”).
It’s not surprising that Palau is a popular destination for luxury holidays. That’s why the most accommodations are resorts for wealthy customers. I looked for a cheap alternative and had no idea what to expect when I booked at Apo680 homestay. It’s managed by Diane, an incredible Chinese lady, and her helping hands from China and Taiwan. Even there was a language barrier, it was not necessary to say what I want. They offered everything before I knew what I want. And even more: they organized the snorkeling trips for their guests, so it was much cheaper as the offers of the dive centers. We had been only a small group at a private boat and could stop at the famous spots when nobody else is around, and they showed us all underwater sights. But it was not only about our activities, they cooked delicious food or took us to great restaurants. They drove everybody to everywhere for free, even in the middle of the night. They lended towels, fins, even a professional underwater camera. I can’t imagine how much money I would have to spend if I had to organize everything by myself.
And it was the first time as I spent such an intensive time with people from Far East. Usually Asian and Western tourists are separated, for example dive centers are only specialized for one group or at least they separate the people at one boat. But at the Apo680 my hosts and most of the other guests had been from China, Japan and Taiwan. And we all became friends so fast and had such a great time. That was an amazing experience and an unforgettable memory, which I take from beautiful Palau.
Some thoughts about traveling (7 months)
Today it is exactly seven months ago that my dream became true and this “just half a world away” trip began. These subjects ruled my thoughts about traveling in the past month:
Safety issues
During my trip I always get information about potential risks, especially for female solo travelers, as well as travel warnings of natural disasters and terroristic attacks. This is limiting my travels at all and made me feel nervous as I arrived at the Philippines. Of course I won’t travel to no-go areas, but what about the regions with a potential risk? I had long discussions with locals and people involved in the safety problem, always with no result. Filipino people chat me up so often; always I was in doubt if I should tell everything about me as I could exposure information which makes it possible to get kidnapped. But at any point I just stopped making myself confused. I can be at the wrong time at the wrong place, that’s true. This place could be the Visayas, a remote area in India or the heart of Germany. I guess it’s more likely being seriously injured by a fallen coconut (this nearly happened to me twice).
Hospitality
I’ve met lots of hospitable people in Asia, but my latest experiences at the Philippines and Palau are just unbelievable. People who don’t know me before offer everything I could need, even before I knew that I could need it now. Whether it’s food, transfers, accommodation in various places in the world or travel tips. Without expecting any return. They only want to listen to my story. That’s a new level of hospitality I never experienced before.
Expectations
Expectations seem to be unnecessary at all. Of course I have a certain expectation when I travel to a desired place. Someone tells me amazing stories about that, my travel book shows breathtaking pictures, a travel blog describes it as paradise, my fantasy does the rest. A place is being glorified before I arrive. This has to result in disappointment. Even if a spot is heaven on earth actually, it’s not surprising anymore. So how can I keep my expectations as low as possible? I guess the only way out is not to inform about the destination at all, just pick a point at the world map and go there with a few necessary details in your mind. That sounds strange for a moment, but when I remember my trip to Nepal for example, I did the same. And it was one of the best choices I ever made. Otherwise the expectations could destroy the joy to discover a unknown place, which is certainly a wonderful piece of this earth.
The Visayas
Confused by several travel warnings, I was in doubt if I should go to the Visayas’ islands. Well, after I left Palawan, a travel warning for Palawan was issued, too. So I went to Cebu City (Cebu Island), Dauin (Negros Island) and Carmen/Chocolate Hills (Bohol Island). In Dauin I was super lucky to make a few dives next to the shore. This area is popular for tiny creatures living in the sand. Bohol’s main attraction are the Chocolate Hills, a wide area studded with more than 1000 hills shaped like molehills. The owner of my accommodation in Bohol was incredible. He treated me like a daughter and showed me around; even in the very early morning he woke me up and drove me to the hills to watch the sunrise, when they are covered by fog clouds and the area appeared in a mystic light. And the travel warnings? The most scary incident happened at my flight from Cebu to Dumaguete. A black unaccompanied suitcase was on board, but it turned out as harmless. That’s it.
Palawan and the Tao Expedition
The last days I spent in Coron, made a 5 days expedition from Coron to El Nido (Tao Expedition) and stayed in El Nido for a few days. It’s a fantastic surrounding for snorkeling at all, lots of colorful corals, various fishes and ship wrecks in the shallow water, so it’s not necessary to go diving, you can see all these things from the water surface. The Tao Expedition goes to remote islands between Coron and El Nido, where usually fishermen and their families are living. Tao built a couple of basecamps at these places, which are quite basic and offer an overnight accommodation in the pure nature. I awoke at sunrise, when the fishermen’s boats chugging away gently. Our fish was directly bought from the fisherman at the sea, so it couldn’t be fresher. They killed a pig on board too, but I really couldn’t eat it. My highlight was the Tao Farm, where the main campsite is located. Here I got lots of information about the life at these lonely islands, the possibilities and the problems to which the locals are confronted every day. The tour finished at El Nido, a quite touristic city, surrounded by the rocky scenery of the Bacuit Bay. There I spent some relaxing days before I made my way to the Visayas.
Flying over the Philippines
Boracay
I know what is Boracay said to be. But I wanted to make my own experience and booked a flight to Caliclan, which is next to Boracay. It’s true, I’ve never seen the ocean shining in such a turquoise color, the sand is brilliant white, and the famous White Beach is a great place for party, too. Of course it’s very crowded, especially with tourists from Korea. But I found some lovely spots, secluded and quite. Like the Puka and the Ilig-Iligan Beach. The Bulabog Beach, the spot for surfers and kiterboarders is not that beautiful. Here are the local kids playing and they will invite you to join them certainly. And I was very lucky as my host Douglas and his family invited me to a private sailing trip to Carabao Island.
Manila
When I arrived in Manila, I was really cautious and reluctant to the Filipinos. It is a dirty and poor city in fact. But it took only two days until their inhabitants infect myself with their kindness, hospitality and soulfulness. The people make it easy to feel comfortable. They chat me up and invited me to join them. They wish God’s blessing. No worries if I took the wrong way. No discussions with taxi drivers about the taximeter (a new experience for me in Southeast Asia). Everybody is very kind and treats me with respect.
Bali
As I left the Denpasar airport late at night, I realized how badly I missed Asia. As I heard the motorbikes hooting, smelled the fumes of the incense sticks, felt a warm breeze in my hair. Damn, it felt so lovely to be back!
You may recognized that it has been quiet at justhalfaworldaway.com. I took my time and completely charged my batteries. Spent the nights in luxury resorts (for the same price I paid for a campsite before). Spent the days in spas, ate delicious healthy food, rented a bicycle and drove across the incredible green landscape, made a sunrise trek at Mount Batur and enjoyed the sunsets watching the shining green rice terraces.
Yes, Bali was love at first sight. Bali is my paradise.
Some thoughts about traveling (6 months)
Today it is exactly six months ago that my dream became true and this “just half a world away” trip began. These subjects ruled my thoughts about traveling in the past month:
Enjoy the little things
During my travels across New Zealand and Australia, the little things became so much more important: a hot shower after a freezing night. Even the possibility to wash my hair completely as the shower doesn’t stop after 4 minutes automatically. A hot coffee in the morning, even an instant one. A cold water in the heat of the Australian desert. Some food left in the fridge of the campground when I came back from an adventurous day and all shops are closed. And every evening the view up to the sky, where I can see the milky way brimming. All these little things made me incredibly happy now.
Always on the run
All the time in New Zealand and Australia, I was in a hurry as I didn’t want to stay too long because of the high price level. Nevertheless I wanted to see as much as possible and I think it’s outstanding what I’ve seen during the seven weeks I’ve spent in Oceania. Because of all the hussle I had not enough time to enjoy every place I saw. I think you can see that in my pictures of New Zealand and Australia too – they became monotonous. Well, it’s an effective way of traveling and I’m happy for the experience, but I won’t do this again. The better way to discover an unknown country seems to choose just a few places and stay there for a while. Or, simply travel to affordable countries and take your time.
It’s all about the money?
The latest experiences made me thinking about the modern “western” societies at all. At the beginning I thought it’s because of my backpacker style, so the locals in New Zealand and Australia are reserved and a bit ill disposed towards me. But here in Bali I can dress neatly, I can afford luxury accommodations and dine in fancy restaurants – but the tourists from Australia? I don’t get a smile or at least any attention. Don’t get me wrong, its not completely everybody. But the very big majority. They seem to be arrogant, less helpful, selfish.
There are lots of beggars in Asia, but they are really poor people. In Oceania are the worst tramps I’ve ever seen. And they are totally wrecked, isolated in their rich environment.
A child smiling and waving to me when I’m cycling around? In Australia unthinkable. In Asia? I’m always annoyed with myself as I didn’t provide any fruits or candies.
Anybody asking how I feel? In Australia a phrase nobody expects an answer. In Asia people asking me and I can feel how they care about me.
Is this really the result of the material wealth? I don’t want to believe that. There must be another reason…
The final days in Australia
I was seeking for a final adventure in Australia as I requested to stay at a sailing boat via Couchsurfing. The acceptance came promptly, so I made my way to Airlie Beach/Whitsunday Coast. The “Wharoonga” is a nice boat at all, but in a bad condition, messy and cramped. Their owner Tim is living an alternative lifestyle as he’s sailing with his son around the Whitsunday Islands, hiring their sailing crew via Couchsurfing.
Here I could learn some general things about sailing, but I found the absolute limit of my personal comfort zone, too. Not only because of the conditions at the Whanroonga, also because of the conditions at the Whitsundays at present. After cyclone Debbie it is still a disaster area. Many sections are still without electricity, almost every shop (including food shops) is closed, as well as hostels and other vital services, the ATMs are out of order. Many roads are blocked by fallen trees, the remaining trees seem dreary as they have almost no leafs anymore. You can see the masts of the sunken ships in the marina and the remains of completely destroyed ships at the coast. The sea is badly polluted by rubble, the former beautiful beaches are not existing anymore as the sand was blown away and the water is badly turbid. The underwater world of the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef seems to be badly damaged.
While it is definitely no area to spent some pleasant says, the tourism services still promise that everything is fine and they are still selling their trips for hundreds of dollars. I really understand that the region needs the income from tourism now more than ever, but I have no understanding for cheating the travelers, get their hard earned money off, for trips that are totally disappointing – everybody who booked a trip was totally angry. And I have really no sympathy for taking the risk that the travelers get serious problems because of the local situation. The few unclosed hotels start from $300/night, the possibility to get some food are rare, the mobility is badly limited.
Unfortunately I haven’t shoot any pictures of on-site situation as I just wanted to go away. I left the area directly when I could leave the ship. But I have met outstanding helpful travelers from Germany – as well as in other parts of Australia, too. It seems to me that the German traveller community is the best item of Australia at all.
So, actually Australia is the first country where I felt a bit homesick (only a little little bit, Mom!). Now I’m already at Townsville airport, waiting for my flight to Bali eagerly. It is only a stopover before I will continue to the Philippines. As the nonstop connections between Australia and Manila are badly expensive and the connections to Bali are pretty cheap, I decided to pause at that beautiful island to make a short vacation from traveling 😎
A journey along Australia’s east coast
Guess what, I rented another vehicle 🙂 It took me along Australia’s east coast from Sydney to Brisbane. During this road trip, I’ve spotted a wild koala for the first time. And of course innumerable surfers and lots of aged hippies. It constantly rained and some areas are flooded as consequences of cyclone Debbie.
Finally yesterday was the last night I’ve slept in a car for that time. Now I know all positions and tricks to make it comfortable, just in case you need some advice 😉
Sydney
Out off the desert at Ayers Rock, I flew to the biggest city of Australia, Sydney (due to heavy turbulences one of my most terrible flights ever). I was very lucky to had my first real Couchsurfing experience as I could stay at the cozy apartment of Peter, a very congenial guy from Rio de Janeiro. Unfortunately I couldn’t make more good experiences in Sydney. While the city has a great surrounding next to the coastline of New South Wales, their inhabitants don’t seem to be happy. I’ve met so many unfriendly persons than in no other place. And I really tried not to be biased, but my first experiences were reconfirmed continually.
Ayers Rock/Kata Tjuta National Park
I think the Ayers Rock is the best-known landmark of Australia. It was the first thing that occurred to me when I’ve heard “Australia”, too. Initially I was a little uncertain whether or not to make myself on the way, as it’s far away in the middle of nowhere and the expenses of a journey to there are enormous.
Well, now I’m here. Unfortunately it is not only the costs of the journey which are enormous, it is everything you need. I got the most expensive rental car I ever had (also due to a failing of a car rental service). A bottle of water is up to $5, while it’s recommended to drink 1 liter/hour. Fuel is almost twice the price as in other Australian areas. And I could even list more annoying things…
But: It’s an incredible feeling to cruise across the Kata Tjuta National Park in a SUV. To see the giant rocks appearing in the flat desert of Central Australia. Tap water is not delicious, but you can drink it and it’s free. And you don’t need that much fuel as the distances are quite short. A refreshing jump in the pool couldn’t be better as here. And mosquito nets are available almost everywhere (you really need it for protecting your face from the flies around).
So it’s all about you make out of it. I really enjoyed the three days I spent in that remote area. I saw a beautiful sunset while the Uluru is brimming in a strong red color. A thunderstorm over the National Park. And again a phenomenal starlight sky, not damped from any other light around.
The Great Ocean Road (B100)
Finally I made a road trip along the famous Great Ocean Road in Victoria, one of my awaited highlights of my trip. As I got a free upgrade for the rental car, I even could made it with a quite comfortable vehicle. So I didn’t worry about sleeping in the car again.
The Great Ocean Roads meanders along the beautiful coastline of West Victoria, topped with the amazing Twelve Apostels near Port Campbell. Besides the spectacular shore, the nature surprised myself with the most giant trees I’ve ever seen in my life (in Maits Rest). Near the lighthouse at Cape Otway I’ve spotted a free-living kangaroo at very first time. And in the early morning I was woke up by the noisy cawing of cockatoos.
When I left the B100 behind me and went on my way to Adelaide, I’ve seen some disturbing things in the monotonous countryside too. Dead Kangaroos at the roadside, sometimes only a half carcass left. Huge combine harvester vendors in tiny villages where’s not even a food store. And drive-in liquor shops. Are you serious?!
Phillip Island
Since yesterday I have a rental car again and I made a daytrip to Phillip Island. There you can watch the “Penguin Parade” shortly after sunset, when the penguins returning from the sea. Unfortunately it’s not allowed to shoot pictures of the parade, but trust me, it’s super cute when these little penguins form groups and waddle up to the beach together 🐧🐧🐧
Melbourne and St.Kilda
Melbourne was my first destination in Australia. I was super happy to see my friend Jana and to spent a couple of days in her apartment in St. Kilda. And to met her adorable dog, Hugo 😍
Melbourne Fashion Festival
From the campsites in New Zealand I directly went to the Melbourne Fashion Festival. I wasn’t well prepared for such an event, but I borrowed suitable shoes from my friend Jana.
Some thoughts about traveling (5 months)
Today it is exactly five months ago that my dream became true and this “just half a world away” trip began. I can’t believe it!! Already half of my trip is over! When I scroll through justhalfaworldaway.com and remember all my experiences, I know there is definitely no better way to spent five unforgettable months.
Since I arrived New Zealand I was badly confronted with my comfort zone. I’ve slept in the car, in dorms or creepy lodges. I changed the accommodations every night and the opportunities to clear my backpack had been extremely rare. Sometimes I froze at night, even if I slept in a down jacket, with two pairs of pants and a warm hat (I’ve learnt that protecting your nose under the hood if this should still covering your head is definitely impossible). I thought I would find the limit where my comfort is too low and traveling is not fun anymore, but I get used to the lower standard better and better. It was all worth it and I still don’t know where my limit is. And after a while I never remember the hassle, my mind only wants to keep the amazing memories. Nevertheless I admire travelers who have almost no luggage and feel comfortable everywhere with everybody. This is the best way of traveling.
Last month the days I travelled solo became more less. I still love it to be focused on myself and the new things around me. But traveling in company makes it often easier and it’s a pleasure not to think about and plan the next steps permanently. Maybe I will make a vacation from traveling soon and just relax at a beautiful place for a while.
The final route: Queenstown, Otago Peninsula, Christchurch
I rented a own car again as my german travel buddies took another route. At the eastcoast of the South Island I’ve spotted several seals, very close while they are sleeping at the beach or swimming next to me at the coast. And some penguins at Penguin Place, a conservative reserve at Otago Peninsula. Now I’m already in Christchurch to get my flight to Melbourne.
Walking, walking, walking
I never made so many walks in my entire life as here in New Zealand. Even if it’s cloudy weather, it’s an amazing nature experience and reaching the top is always such a good feeling.
Continuing the road trip
I’m still traveling across New Zealand with Anni and Dan, still sleeping in the car and every day I’m once more amazed about the gigantic scenery here, half a world away.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Two days ago we made the Tongariro Alpine Crossing track. With its 19,4 km it is a challenging day walk, but the magnificent views are really worth it.
Hahei, Tauranga and Wai-o-Tapo
Since a few days I’m traveling with a couple from Germany I’ve met in Auckland. They rented a car and now we take the same route and explore New Zealand’s natural spectacles together.
Northland, Bay of Islands and Muriwai Beach
Admittedly, New Zealand and I – this was no love at first sight. In my opinion, the people are rather reserved, everything is expensive and I can’t afford a private room, and I had a pesky flu. I was a bit bitchy. I rented a car, started a road trip and left Auckland behind me. Quickly I neglected my travel book and got wonderfully lost. Now I don’t care that I’m sleeping in my car since 4 nights, that I eat unhealthy convenience food “cooked” in a camping kitchen or a fast food restaurant and that I look completely messy. Every morning when the sunrise wakes me up I can’t wait for the next amazing places I will discover today. And every evening I can’t close my eyes because I can’t stop watching this breathtaking starlight sky.
Auckland
Auckland was my first destination here in New Zealand – finally I’m half a world away from Germany. It’s a very British city with a very comfortable climate. “Comfortable” might be the best description of Auckland at all – it’s cozy, clean, a bit bourgeois and not that exciting.
Kuala Lumpur
I couldn’t imagine a better final destination of my journey through Southeast Asia as Kuala Lumpur (it’s only a temporary goodbye, I will go to the Philippines later). I had no real expectations and I was overwhelmed by the kindness, open-mindedness and helpfulness of the inhabitants of Malaysia’s capital. It’s a melting pot of cultures, Chinese, Indians and Malay Muslims living tolerantly and peacefully together – Kuala Lumpur sets a very good example!
Some thoughts about traveling (4 months)
Today it is exactly four months ago that my dream became true and this “just half a world away” trip began. Last month I was exceedingly lucky to spent a couple of days with my friends from Munich. It’s a completely different way of traveling. Special moments and experiences become even more special when they are shared with people you love. You go to more parties and dance the night away. You are more focused on your friends as on the life outside your group. Now I’m traveling by myself again, make my own decisions and meet lots of new people. But I still can share my experiences here at justhalfaworldaway.com. Here are a few thoughts about the 4th month of my journey.
Finally I’m able to just live in the moment and completely think about nothing, my mind became calm and quiet. In the past it had ever been in motion and I thought nonstop about important and less important things.
Since I left Germany I’m living much closer to nature than ever before. Sometimes I had to climb because there had been no stairs. Sometimes I had to swim because there had been no bridges. Sometimes I had to be back home before sunset because the only light had been the daylight. Sometimes there had been no electricity, sometimes just cold or even no water. And sometimes I had to take care of free wild animals. I’ve learned to communicate with hands, feet and facial looks (a sheet of paper and a pen are very useful!). I never got nervous when I had no wifi for a couple of days. And – the most important item for me – I’ve improved the perception of my intuition and I act according to it.
And the recent challenges? I was still a little child when I made my latest ride on a big wheel. Because of my height phobia. Now I made it again. 165 metres high. The worlds second highest Ferris wheel. Alone. And I’m still alive 🙂 And I tried a durian chocolate – please don’t do the same 😝
Singapore
I’ve spent two days in surreal Singapore. Surreal because of its futuristic architecture, its linear and super clean visual impression, its high price level and its strict laws. I don’t felt as if I had been in Southeast Asia. But there are the colorful quarters Chinatown and Little India right in the middle. So it even seems more surreal because of this unsettling contrast.
71 days in Thailand
Today I left Thailand after 71 days altogether I’ve spent here. Thailand seems to be one of the easiest countries for tourists: it is safe, quite cheap and the (touristic) infrastructure is excellent. The mountainous landscape in the north offers lots of adventures, the heavenly islands and the beaches in the south make you feel like you are in paradise, as well as the marine life in the turquoise water. Thai food is super delicious and Thai people are mostly very friendly and funny.
Unfortunately all these benefits hold one big disadvantage: the millions of tourists and expats coming to Thailand every year (2015: 29 million tourists). Especially right now when it’s cold weather in the northern hemisphere and the people are hungry for the sun naturally. Lots of Chinese people celebrating their New Year at the nearby Thailand. Nowhere else I have seen how much tourism can destroy. The beautiful landscape has to make place for hotels, restaurants, wide streets and airports. The amount of waste is enormous (especially because everything is packed in plastic). And beautiful places could be so crowded that you can’t see how beautiful they are. Therefore I haven’t visit some places I really wanted to see, e.g. Phi Phi Islands and Phang Nga Bay (for the same reason I have decided not to visit Angkor Wat, also because I think nothing in the world can top Bagan since I’ve seen it with my own eyes). And finally a few individual tourists behave totally disgusting. To be honest, sometimes I spoke in English with my compatriots, just not to fraternize with them.
What I really enjoyed in Thailand was the simple life in a bungalow away from the mass tourism. Something like this is mostly occupied by relaxed people. Bungalows are usually a family business and sometimes they are not listed on any booking portal, so I often found a pretty bungalow to stay just by walking around. Yes, there could be some uninvited guests, but that makes the real nature experience. And an inviting hammock in front of your temporary home compensate almost everything! Here are my personal recommendations:
- Mark House Bungalow at Ao Klong Chao, Ko Kood
- Blue Sky Beach Bungalow at Hat Phra Ae, Ko Lanta
- Mai Pen Rai Bungalow at Than Sadet, Ko Pha Ngan
Happily reunited on Ko Samui, Ko Tao and Ko Pha Ngan
I was so super happy to spent a few days with my ladies from Munich ❤️❤️❤️
Mai Pen Rai Bungalows/Than Sadet
I never expected to find such a quite and remote place on Ko Phangan. Although we had been at Than Sadet for one night only, it was an incredible nature experience. A lonely beach with a smoker-friendly restaurant, the almost unspoiled jungle in the background, bungalows where you have to climb to get there and free big reptiles walking around. If you are looking for a place where you can really feel free and come down, I would highly recommended the Mai Pen Rai Bungalows – if available, choose bungalow #38!
My annual 23rd birthday
This year on Feb 04 was my very best 23rd birthday ever!! My ladies from Munich and I made a private boat trip around Ko Tao, had a sundowner in a beach club (and some more Mojitos of course), the best pizza in Thailand and a very very long night… Thank you so much for join me 😘😘😘
Ko Lanta
I just spent some really relaxed days at lovely Ko Lanta. Finally the rain is gone at the south of Thailand and I could shoot my favorite sunset pictures again. I hanged out in the hammock in front of my pretty beach bungalow very often, jogged at the beach in the evening, drove through the island by a rental bike and fetched my Bob Marley overdose 🎶
Some thoughts about traveling (3 months)
Today it is exactly three months and four days ago that my dream became true and this “just half a world away” trip began. Last month traveling became normal life finally. Everything works like I have never done anything else before. I have to pause to realize that I’m right in the middle of the greatest journey of my life. In these moments I can’t keep back the tears of happiness.
“Open your hearts and find your wild.”
To avoid living in routine I keep the adventures ongoing. I’m still seeking for new challenges continually. The last big one was the diving trip at Similan Islands. The hardest issue was to control all fears and panic from one exhale to the next. Now diving is my great new hobby. But it still takes me an effort to leave my personal comfort zone and to tread on unknown territory. Tough every time I made it, I was incredibly happy.
“Everything happens for a reason.”
That became my motto for relaxed traveling. It took me this world trip to internalize this sentence. I use it when I had to change my plans compulsory or I unhappily didn’t get the option I considered it’s the best. And the end I was always delighted.
“A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles.”
Now traveling is less about the places you see, it’s about your experience and the people you meet on the road. I became well aware of negative people who waste my energy and create a bad atmosphere. That’s only a short introduction and I focus on myself again. So it feels like my heart is fill up with more love and peace continually. Everything happens to us is just made by our innermost thoughts.
Open Water Diver Course at Similan Islands & Koh Bon
I just passed the PADI Open Water Diver Course at a four days liveabord trip. During the nine dives I did I already became addicted. It’s such an incredible amazing and peaceful world under the sea’s surface – just float in the water between the bubbles and the marine life. I love it!
Thai Wats
Temples! Pagodas! Buddhas! Tourists! And dogs 🐶🎀
These pictures have been taken in Ayutthaya, at Wat Saket in Bangkok, at Wat Rong Khun in Chiang Rai, at Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phan Tao and Wat Si Koet in Chiang Mai and at Phra Mahathat Napha Methanidon in Doi Inthanon National Park.
Thai markets
I love the entire variety of markets all over Thailand. There are special markets for several goods, night markets (expect live music), weekend markets, floating markets and so on, usually with a plenty of food stalls. These pics are taken at the huge Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok (where I’ve already spent two full days), the Maeklong Railway Market in Samut Songkhram, the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market (actually it’s more a souvenir shop instead of a market), the Pak Khlong Flower Market in Bangkok and the so called Sunday Walking Street in Chiang Mai.
HAPPY 2017 🍾
I wish you a fantastic new year with lots of joy, happiness and love!
Goodbye lovely Nepal (once is not enough)
As I left Germany more than two months ago, I had no intention of visiting Nepal. Though I’ve spent 25 adventurous days in that quirky little country now. A country where everybody is calling me “Ma’am” and makes me laughing just by being themselves. The lovely and funny people always gave me a warm welcome and shared their happiness with me. Warm-hearted and a bit curious are these young Nepalis (the average age is 23), and they lead a risky life. In addition to the almost inevitable risks occurred by nature, there are the risks effected by the disastrous traffic from hell. The conception of safety is basically different. That is precisely why all Nepali air carriers are banned in the European Union too. Life can’t be easy here. It seems like risking your life is part of it. But the people make it simple and are just happy.
Nepal has some crowded areas. It’s up to you if you sense the noise, the dust and the limited space, or if you are peaceful in yourself. It’s not surprising that smoking weed is a common practice.
And that travelers feel good, get lazy and might stay in Nepal for a very long time. There are a lot of things to discover so far. The landscape offers a wide geographic range from the high Himalaya with its snow peaks, up to the jungle plains in the south, with the colorful prayer flags everywhere. The range of outdoor activities is almost uncountable. The country is full of spectacular religious sites of Indian Hinduism and Tibetan Buddhism. And there is always one of these vibrant festivals ongoing. Lots of travelers will try to buy any German food in a so called German bakery. Might be better you charge a 24 hour Dal Baht power or get satisfied with a yummi Mo Mo.
But it’s not the landscape, the food or the adrenaline pumping adventures that makes Nepal unique. It’s the people with their slightly mischievous smile, their happiness and their calm manner that just make you feel comfortable. Nevertheless it is a poor country – expect that almost every Nepali will be happy to get your money. Dozens of so called guides will wait for you at every corner. If you need one and you are a woman, be prepared he could feel lonely quickly. And I don’t want to write about the shameless taxi drivers!
However, it makes me feel a bit sad that I will leave Nepal today. But I know I will come back as soon as possible. Once is not enough, there are still too many things I want to explore in crazy Nepal. Of course I’ve booked a flight with Nepal Airlines for today. My adrenaline is already pumping a bit 🙂
Chitwan National Park
Chitwan – meaning “Heart of the jungle” – is one of four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nepal. What a shame I won’t get all of them during this trip, though I’ve seen two.
In the National Park I experienced a jeep safari and a guided jungle walk, without the seldom chance to see a Bengal tiger close to me. Nevertheless I would been so scared in that kind of situation that I don’t know what would happened. Luckily I have spotted lots of deer, wild boars, rare birds, rhinos, indigenous crocodile species and the wild Ronaldo elephant from a save distance, and all together in the fascinating landscape of Chitwan.
Pokhara & around
I just left that cozy place close to the Annapurna range. The main activities for tourists are trekking, paragliding, maybe a mountain flight, visit the World Peace Pagoda and Sarangkot, relax at Phewa Lake or join a yoga class. My special highlights had been the spectacular rise of the full moon over the snowcapped mountains shortly after sunset, the Poon Hill Trek, getting lost in the dark mountain forest and the confusing feeling to be a photo motive for dozens of locals.
Poon Hill Trek
Just came back from my first trek so far, the Poon Hill or also called Annapurna Panorama Trek. It seemed to be one of the easiest treks in Nepal, but actually I don’t felt like walking in a park. I was happy to hired a porter-guide, Hari.
We began in Nayapul and walked to Tikhedhungga at the first day. The second began quite hard with climb a staircase for about two hours and ended on 2.860 meters in Ghorepani. Day three started early for the amazing sunrise on Poon Hill and continued with a long way down to Ghandruk. The last day we only made a short walk to Kimche and catched the bus back to Pokhara.
Although it wasn’t that easy and quite cold, it was an unforgettable experience. The trek features marvelous views to the Annapurna Himalaya Range, while the way meanders through beautiful ethnic villages, rice terraces, vegetable gardens, jungles and rivers with rushing waterfalls. Mountain people carry up heavy items although they always have time for a little chat. The stunning scenery provides a unique nature experience. And it seems like I had lost my height phobia in the mountains!
Some thoughts about traveling (2 months)
Today it is exactly two months ago that my dream became true and this “just half a world away” trip began. Meanwhile traveling became much slower, more relaxed and intense. Instead of making plans, I listen to my inner voice and stay where it is bringing me to. And getting lost sometimes. Actually I haven’t thought about making a trek before, now I just came back from a unforgettable journey through the Himalayas. I never felt at the wrong place, missed or regretted anything. I only have to pay attention of the visa, that’s it. I don’t feel like a tourist anymore, more like a traveller.