Mikes Travels abroad

Turning point in my trip

2010-03-13T09:21:00.000-08:00

Well I'm back in London now. After a good week and a half in a 17th century French Chateau I was told that I wasn't suitable for a summer job and was sent back to London later that day, in very much a reality TV show kind of way....

The weeks leading up to going away were pretty busy and stressful. Trying to find somebody for my room as well as worrying about the financial aspect of having to pay for a deposit for the trip and get any gear that I needed to go away with. But in the end it all worked out well, and the 5 weeks since my last post went by pretty quickly.

The training trip was an interesting experience, and certainly a learning one. I was pleased that my first French trip was in the heart land of France, and was very authentic. Exactly the kind of place that I had dreamed of every time I was sitting in my college French class! It was just a shame it was winter.

A couple of times I went up to the local village that consisted of a church, school, bar and bakery/ small store. On one occasion I managed to get some cookies using my best French. However I found out when I got back to the chateau via the chateau groundsman that the bakery girl actually spoke English! But it was still a good experience to try to speak French. It was the same in Lyon, I managed to get by with asking if people if they spoke English and a lot of pointing. And as usual for some reason when my French lacked my default foreign language of Spanish came out....

As for the rest of the training trip, I felt pretty early on that I might not get a job. I was on the back foot to begin with not having worked for the company or done a tour prior. I tried my best to get to know people in other ways (outside of company experiences) but evidently that wasn't enough as I just didn't click with the group... Early on I was talking to one of the managers who advised me to just be myself. And I was, so love me or hate me at least I was true to myself. If I don't fit the company thats fine. I know I'm not doctor material either!! So while I didn't get the job, I'm not angry or upset. Disappointed for sure, but I totally respect their decision as they would have seen plenty of people with different personalities and would know the out comes. They told me that I would probably get bored after a few weeks. Maybe, maybe not. But either way it doesn't matter.

Sitting on the plane on the way back to London, after being ejected from the training. The thought of coming back to London just wasn't as attractive. Esp after the dream of working in Europe for the summer. So I've been trying to decide whether I want to stay in London or head home. The more I think about it the more I think I'm ready to go. But its still a hard call.

I think the main reason I want to stay is to travel, but to be fair no matter how much one see's there's always more to see. And I feel that now that I'm set up here, if I ever want to come back it is literally just a flight. Also if home isn't as good as I remember or if things are too different then I can always go to Australia for a few months, which I think I might have to do mid winter anyway just to get some sun!!!

So stay tuned for my next post, for the 10th time in 1 year I could be putting my life back in my travel bag and heading to another location!.....

If a picture says 1000 words...

2010-01-28T12:08:00.000-08:00

In light of the recent devastation of Peru, and especially Cusco. Where I stayed. I have been looking through my pics (and there must be well over 1000) to try and find my favorite pics that appealed to me.

This was a hard pick. Obviously Machu Picchu should be included, but out of the 280 photos that I kept this is one that reminds me that while the builders have long gone M.P is still a home to some.
I just like this, unfortunately i didn't keep the photo I was taking! it reminds me of Charlie Brown for some reason...

This one reminds me of the best long weekend away that I had. Awesome location and great friends. To me this sums up my time the most.

I have an issue with the minimum wage!

2010-01-27T05:44:00.000-08:00

On stuff.co.nz today they have this article.

http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/3267624/Minimum-wage-goes-up-by-25-cents-an-hour

Now I take strong issue with this constant quest by unions for the continual raise of the minimum wage.

Sure I'm no economist, but lets be fair. The wage increase isn't across the board. I worked for 4 years before achieving my trade cert to be paid $18 (in fairness recession didn't help this change). Yet the union quoted wants a minimum wage of $15! I don't see why the unions are trying to debilitate the work force by keeping them on the minimum wage.

It should be a steeping stone or in between, not a life long career path.

Perhaps the govt should put more effort into up skilling the work force and let the market decide their pay rate, should they need unskilled labor. Supply and demand...

New adventures await... in 5 weeks

2010-01-25T09:43:00.000-08:00

I had an interview last Thursday, with Contiki. It was for a job that I applied for after being here for about 3 weeks. So way back in Sept.

When I walked in the other 2 guys (the other 8 were girls) were dressed as though they were going for a sales or accounting job. I was thinking "crap, either I've missed the mark coming in tidy casual or they have". When we eventually had to give our 5 minute presentation on some thing of interest to us in Europe, I ended up going first. From emails and from what was said prior to the presentations I felt that it wasn't so much what we said but how we said it.

I have to admit that when I got up I was more nervous than I would have liked, but gave my ad lib talk on where I have been, what I'm doing and where I hope to go. I tried to be jovial as well as include the other interviewees who were stone faced. (I guess they didn't want to laugh and support me) I don't think I hit 5 mins, but I felt I gave a fair representation of me. Once every one was done, we had to leave and call back at 1.15 to see if we had an interview. As I left I shook hands with one of the interviewers who said "we'll see you this afternoon" which made me think, either thats a generic throw away comment or I'm trough to the next stage....

So I had lunch with 6 others. 2 didn't get an interview which was awkward! but unsurprising, one girl was so nervous she had massive troubles thinking on the spot let alone talking.

So I went back for my one to one interview, I thought it went well.

And that was confirmed when I got home to find that I had been 'invited on the training trip'.

If successful then they offer you a job after, I'm sure this is just to cover them in case you leave every thing here (job, flat etc) then they find out that your crap and dont want you. You have no come back on them. Considering they have 30 positions and they take 30 people. Further more, there wouldn't be much time to retrain more people. So as long as I can do the required I think I'll be fine. Which thanks to camp and my work history shouldn't be hard to achieve.

So on the 26th of Feb (which is 3 months earlier than I thought it would be!) I'll go on the training trip to France for 2 weeks. Then come back to London for 10 days before taking placement in either France, Italy or Switzerland. ( I think) until Sept or Oct. When on return to London and budget pending I plan to do any more trips to see things in Europe. And hopefully a trip to Morocco. Before coming home!

So exciting times ahead, no doubt hard and challenging times. But I'm sure a learning experience all the same. Now I have only 5 weeks left in London (as a resident), so much to do and so little time!

Christmas and New Years re-cap

2010-01-04T09:51:00.000-08:00

Well, my first Christmas and new years overseas is now behind me. And what great times they were.

Christmas got off to a good start on Christmas eve. I went to a friends c'mas party at a bar in the city. But due to the trains being shut down and fear of falling asleep on the tube again I had to leave while the hours were large.

C'mas day was started by a friend (1 of 4) coming over for breakfast. We had a good ol' English breakfast, but it turned more into a brunch. So by the time we switched to his place for lunch it was after 12. But a late lunch of NZ roast lamb with roasties and the classic cauliflower cheese was well received. Topped off with a late afternoon / early evening C'mas pudding and custard.

We moved onto a house party in the area, that had we not known each other possibly would have ended up at in different ways anyway. So more celebrations were in order with fellow expats. But before we became too lethargic it was off to a bar/ dingy club/ common Kiwi and Aussie hot spot. To dance the night away. So all in all a very fun night.

The days in between c'mas and leaving for my New Years trip seemed to pass fairly quickly and uneventfully. My goals of continuing running were dashed by the icy weather, or maybe that was just an excuse!

After a long 10 hour bus trip I arrived with 30 other fresh faces to see 2010 in with. Ironically 95% were either Kiwi or Aussie. On the 31st we braved the cold and at times snow to cycle around the area. Which while it wasn't too bad I'm sure must be more enjoyable in the summer! also a bit more scenic. But we were all relieved to make it to the covered boat for a canal cruise, which revealed some good views of the strange angles of the buildings!. Which have sunk in different directions due to the pile foundations rotting.

The new years party in one of Amsterdam's many squares was a blast. I don't know what the singers were saying but the music was great!

My mother has always told me that 'what ever you do on the first day of the year, you will do for the rest'. Well I hope that's true as I spent time exploring a new city and taking photos. It was planned for the group to visit the Anne Frank house, but because this was one of 2 museums open on new years day the line was massive. The guide gave an estimate of 1.5 hours wait. So I decided to check out the city. However my trip was a little longer and the wait was shorter so I didn't get to go to Annes house this time. But that meant time for another museum, of which Amsterdam has many. I'm surprised there isn't a museum for museums there.

Our last evening in Amsterdam was spent watching an improv show, which I felt was fairly average slow and dry compared to the shows that I have seen in Wellington.

But before to long it was back on the bus for London. Another trip to Europe and another city ticked off the list. Hopefully 2010 brings many more opportunity's to see more!!!

But for now its back into the working world tomorrow. Which will be a bit of a shock after over 3 weeks of the relaxed life!! But also good to get money again!

Winter Chills and German Thrills

2009-12-20T05:45:00.000-08:00

Well, Christmas is almost upon us. I find this to be a bit odd, due to the differences in seasons. This year feels like it has gone exceptionally fast. Considering that I left home in a summer, Peru was very much like an early NZ summer. And then into an American summer. So when I was in America because it was hot my body was telling me it was February even though I knew it was July. Now that its snowy and cold everyone is talking about C'mas, but to me it feels like mid year. Certainly not the end of it!

I have managed to get out of the city a few times now. The first time was to visit some family up north. Which was a great trip, and esp good to meet the family of my mothers cousin - who visited us when I was very young. It was also great to get out of the city and into the country for a weekend.

The following weekend which was at the end of Nov, a friend and I went on a day trip with the local bus company to some Christmas markets in a northern town. It was quite funny because the average age of every one else must have been about 50. And that is only so low because of us two youngins! otherwise it would have well been easily 60.

But the most interesting trip so far was my recent travels to Munich. It started as most of my trips do with me underestimating travel times and becoming concerned that I might miss my flight. But as it turned out the plane was late this time. As we came to land through the low cloud my first impression of Munich was seeing the snow dusted pine trees. Coming into land on an old air force base (easily WW2) I was instantly reminded of just how much history there is in this part of the world. I know its the same with London, but I guess after living here for only a few months the gloss wears off.

There were lots of great things about my Munich trip, but I guess the best thing would be spending time with friends again. One from Peru and one from home. I chuckled to myself at the time because for the second time in a new city I arrived on one of the Smith brothers front door step. Although this time much more organised! and due to the -4 temperature, I'm glad I wasn't waiting for hours on the street!
But the weekend was fairly busy sight seeing, we managed to see some Christmas markets, parts of the city, go ice skating in the snow! which was extra cool for me. As well as the BMW museum and BMW world which is basically a huge car shop but both were really cool.
We also visited a Bavarian Beer Hall, which was extra special because it was only on arrival that I noticed the logo. It was the same logo that I have seen for years on a beer mug (that has always had pens in it), I always thought the said mug was from England. So I thought it was cool that someone form my family had been to the same beer hall. Only to find out later that my parents brought that mug in Arther's Pass! However my mother had been to the beer hall many years ago.
Monday and half of Tuesday was spent catching up with a friend (the oldest Smith brother) that I haven't seen in years. So time went by very quickly indeed. And before I knew it, it was time to get back on the bus and go to the airport.

So now I am out of work for the time being, and have been since I got back mid last week. But I'm trying to make the most of the opportunity by seeing as much of London as I can. And possibly fit in a day trip somewhere up north perhaps to Oxford. But given its so close to C'mas short notice trips seem to be quite expensive.
I do have work lined up in Jan, working for an expat Kiwi. Who does some pretty interesting work for the best kind of clientele -the ones with money. One of the jobs I should be on is by the Tower Bridge. So hopefully I will start in the second weekend of Jan. But until then I'm just chillin, both literally and figuratively!

I will spend C'mas with my friend down the road who is also an expat and who has been here a little longer than me. I think we will have a good ol NZ lamb, it seems only right!
And then shortly after I will be making my way to Amsterdam for New Years!

So I hope you all have a great C'mas and New Years.

London - where a common can still wear a 70,000 pound watch

2009-11-25T13:32:00.000-08:00

Wow, I have now been in London for almost 3 months! and it was 2 months since my last post. Its truly amazing how quick the time goes.

I always knew being in London would be the hardest part of my trip. From day one when I decided to leave NZ, I knew I would have no set plans on arrival. I had no job lined up, a small amount of American $ and I knew 2 people. There have been times when it has been harder (than it would be if I was at home) or stressful. And the constant uncertainties are not always helpful. But I have made it this far, so I'm sure the hard part is over,(fingers crossed) hopefully I leave in a very different way to arriving!

I had asked a friend if I could stay with him for the first night on arrival. Which he was OK with, however there was a communication error. And when it occurred to me to write down his cell I couldn't get on line to do so. (You'd think I would have learnt after my Peru panic attack when on arrival I had no idea if anyone was picking me up or a ph number or an address. Now that was stress!!) After waiting for hours outside what I hoped was Jonnys apartment stressing that I had the wrong address, because I couldn't remember if it was a 3 or 5. He eventually showed up and was surprised to see me. The funny thing was that his sister was in the flat, we had seen each other. But it didn't occur to me that she'd be there (even though I knew the whole family was over for a wedding), and I'm pretty sure I'm the last person she would expect to see outside her brothers London flat! Which is why neither of us clicked in the 3 hours I was waiting on the street.
I was very fortunate that the brothers (Phill and Jonny) helped me out by letting me dos at their perspective flats while I started to get things sorted. I had prearranged an interview (with a temp agency) for the day after arrival, and had work offered on Thursday. But had underestimated how tired I would be so started working on the first Monday after arrival. The work was fairly average, but at least it was start! For the first month work was fairly sporadic. But it kept me off the streets.

After 2 weeks of dosing and then two weeks at a backpackers, I went back to dosing with the Jonny and Phill who had just moved into a new place. So I went from a crumby backpackers to the luxury of a leather couch (thanks immensely boys). Where I stayed for a month until I had the money to get into a flat. Which as it turns out, isn't easy. Theres a lot of competition so I was fortunate to get the place I'm in now. Its in the north (Dollis Hill tube station) about 15 -20 mins from Oxford circus. With a great big park behind us. I like to think of it as our back yard- the Queen has a big one why cant we?

For the last 7 weeks or so I have been working with a guy whom I met in America, predominantly decorating.Which has been really good. An hour on the tube each way has caused me to have an odd sleep pattern now. As I snooze in both directions, I seem to be going to bed later and later.
But I'm about to be on the search for a new job soon. So hopefully I will be fortunate once again and find a job closer to home.

There have been times over the last couple of months that for what ever reason I have been disheartened, or momentarily depressed (?). But I have found the remedy to be going for a walk around the city and seeing things or being in places that I have always heard of or that are icons of London. Like the Tower Bridge , Westminster or even just Piccadilly Circus. On one Saturday afternoon adventure I stumbled into Harrods Knightsbridge, where I tried on a £70,000 watch (almost $200,000 NZ). I saw one there for £170000!!!! (almost half a million NZD). I was impressed at the friendlessness and unpretentious of the assistant. Clearly I was not the type of person to be buying such a watch, but I wasn't made to feel like I shouldn't be there.

I have started going to a church so hopefully will meet some more people. This weekend just gone was the first out side of the city. Which was a very nice change to head up into the country and see more trees than people for a change! And I am slowly starting to explore the city and surrounding area. I'm trying to make the most of my time here. I am going to Amsterdam for New Years and hopefully will be able to go to Germany before Christmas. As well as a few day trips out of the city along the way.

So for now things are going well. I'll try to update a bit more regularly now!

Hope your all well out there in blog land.

Arizona- Gunsligners and Cowboys

2009-09-22T10:06:00.000-07:00

After what seemed like a pretty quick flight I landed in Tucson, Arizona. As usual my trouble to sleep on flights didn't let me down. But when I steeped out of the airport a wave of warm air hit me. However after walking into sun it felt like I was walking into an oven! I have decided that Arizona must be the venting area for the fires of hell. It was phenomenally hot.
After the usual procedures for exiting an airport, my friend decided that a quick immersion and introduction to the Arizona desert was essential. So it was a quick dash to the desert museum where due to the pending closure we had to run around checking all the animals and fauna as we possibly could. It a pretty cool landscape of desert filled with Cactus, and mountains. Very much like what you see in the old westerns most of which were filmed in the Tucson area apparently.

After almost 3 months in Michigan I have to admit it was great to see mountains again!.
I once heard that NZ 'ers find it hard to be in parts of America due to the lack of mountains, and I was certainly anxious that the lack of would enhance any 'home sickness'. At times it was frustrating because there was no points of orientation. However I didn't miss the mountains so much as tree tops were a substitute to block the vastness. But it was great to see Arizona mountains that kind of reminded me of the type in the Queenstown/ Otago area.
After the almost frantic run through the desert museum, I was shown the local university that my friend attends. It was quite nice. Very big, but reminded me more of a high school rather than a university. It became an interesting sight to see green grass in the desert area. As though it didn't really belong considering that every thing else was dry and mostly baron of greenery. A quick tour of the area brought us to the house. Which provided a great opportunity for a shower etc, before our dinner at a 'very nice restaurant' where one is expected to dress nicely. So after being loaned a pair of black shoes and a tie. I felt like I was heading to a business meeting but was pleased that I could finally use my shirt and formal pants that I have carried around the world!!!
The restaurant was a very well themed steak house, and some what of a local attraction. But it was only when a I noticed (mid conversation) the cowboy standing behind me that I also noticed the myriad of ties decorating the rafters. The look on his face and scissors in hand brought me to the realization that I was the only one in the place wearing a tie!! even my friends father had slyly removed his at some point before entering. The cow boy was dead set on cutting my tie. No matter what excuse I gave, I tried the “it was given to me by my dyeing grandmother, and is an air loom” and “I have just come form New York business meetings and this is how one dress's for dinner”. But no matter my argument I was set up to fail no matter what battle I brought. This cowboy had won many tie fights before judging by the decorated rafters.
The next day we went out to 'Tombstone' an authentic gun slinging wild west town. Home of some of the cowboys and gunslingers that have been immortalized in movies, like Doc Holiday and …...ahh others. We even visited a burlesque house (now a museum) that had seen many gun fights the evidence was still lodged in the bar posts or walls. It was good to see people (locals I presume) dressing up in the period theme to enhance the atmosphere.

On the way back we passed the plane grave yard, and the stock pile of U.S military planes which was huge. The vast fleet of planes ready to go was huge. Put out 10 (or whatever) stock piled planes to shame. It was impresssive to see the stock pile of big military cargo planes.
The rest of the weekend was spent socializing and church which was again pretty big. But as usuall before to long I was back at the airport ready to go.

The flight to London was uneventfull, as seems to be the case in Chicago (for a connecting flight). I almost missed my flight again. But by the time I landed in London I had been through so many different time zones I had no idea what the actuall time was (body wise) I wasn't sure if I should be eating breakfast lunch or dinner! But once I got to my friends house (in London) all the stress melted away...........

Fo' ged abou'd it...

2009-09-12T12:38:00.000-07:00

On arrival any previous confidence I had gained with the subway and New York was shattered with a couple of wrong subway stops and walking the wrong way once out of the subway. But after an 11 hour train ride, we eventually found our (My montreal friend Sebastian and I) way to where we were staying.
On saturday my friend form New Jersey (Ciana) came to pick us up, and we made our way down to Philadelphia, where after a spot of window shopping and a 'Phily cheese steak'. Which was a little disappointing as I had had a better one in L.A. But I didn't say that too loudly since the line went out the shop door!! After which we found the Museum that was featured in the 'Rocky' series. And of course after running up the steps just as Rocky had done in '76 I too did it. Which full filled a long time dream of mine. Along with getting photos by the statue of the man him self. It was a walk back to the car and back on the road.
By the time we got back to Jersey it was well past dinner time, so a stop for pizza was the answer. And what a pizza! before eating we were all adamant that we could easily eat alot. However due to the size of the pizza after 3 of us had had enough there was still half left over! Although I have to admit that we did have an entree of Calamari.

The next day we went out to one of the beach's in New Jersey, it was a very nice beach but I couldn't believe it when I had to pay $6.50 to get onto the beach!!. It was a 2 hour drive, but the sunny day definatley made it worth it. Due to the severe surf that suggested a very step drop at the shore line. We were unable to swim, and at the life guards authority could only go knee deep. But there were certainly enough people enjoying them selves.
The ride home proved that every man, dog and dogs family took advantage of the sunny day and went to the beach. As the drive had growen an hour, due to a small accident.

The rest of the week Sebastian and I checked out some of the sights in NY, the Museum of Natural History and The Met. Along with 'winning' (so they call it) tickets to the filming of "The Late Show" with David Letterman. Which was a faily well polished show, it felt like they were putting a show on for us that was being filmed rather than we were watching a show being filmed. Interestinly enough they filmed it in one take. After I left I thought I should have also tryed to get to see a 'Saturday night live' filming.

On my last day I went on to the 'Intrepid' a WWII air craft carrier. Which was really interesting. I also went into the submarine that they had there. Along with one of the Concords. Being on the aircraft carrier was another thing that I've always wanted to do.
NY is a great town, reminds me of Wellington but in a much much much bigger way. In regads to the corperate areas, arty areas, park and water front areas. Some of the buildings were impresive, but many of them were lost amongst the rest. Had they been trasported to say Masterton they would certainly be outstanding structures on every level.
Its an awsome place to visit however due to the massive size of the city, I was ready to leave once my time was up. It just takes so long to get anywhere. And theres sooo much of nothing usefull. Just office buildings.
I was initially quite intimidated by the fact that there NY is so big and was expecting to get mugged at every corner, but where we were was not the case at all. It actually felt quite safe, while staying vigilant of course. Also, while I know that there are so many more people here, I didn't feel like the millions of people in the city. It almost feels like the buildings are abandoned. As I haven't seen a mass exodus at 5pm that you do in Welly. Possibly partly because NY is always busy. And quite possibly because I'm not standing in the street at 5pm. I would love to have a teleporter to go back to U/H or even Wellington for just 1 hour and then go back. Just to see if my opinion of either has changed after spending time in NY. But thats not possible.... well yet anyway!

The French connection

2009-09-12T12:26:00.000-07:00

I am now out of the U.S after my 3 month stint. And I am also past the 6 month mark since leaving home. When I landed in the U.K it was pretty much 6 months to the hour since I left Mums house!
The last 2 weeks in the U.S went by fast. And I feel I made the best of my time. After camp it was a rushed trip to the airport, for a destination of New York for the weekend. It was great to catch up with some good friends again. And especially good to meet up in the other side of the world!! We managed to make the most of our time by visiting the Statue of Liberty, Wall Street, Times Square and of course Central Park to name a few.
But before too long as is always the way, it was time to move on again. This time to Niagara Falls which takes my “wonders of the world' visits to 6 now, only 64 more to go. (from my book of wonders of the world). Due to the train station being much further from the falls than I had anticipated (like an hour walk more) and the train being 1.5 hours late. I didn't get a chance to go on the 'Maid in the mist' or the viewing deck. Where you can pretty much stand under the falls. And because I got there so late I was so frantic trying to take photos before the sun went down, that I didn't get to eat until midnight that night. That day I had only had Mc Donald's so I was pretty hungry! But I got my photos all the same. Crossed in to Canada, (which is much much nicer). To get wider shots. But by 10.30 I had had enough and was ready for dinner! So thankfully there was a Dennys which was actually pretty good. Especially at midnight! Because I was by myself the staff thought I was waiting for someone else so it took over half an hour before I had to ask them to take my order. Which I didn't mind because the train station that I had to go back to seemed pretty scary during the day. So I wasn't too keen to stay there after midnight. To prove it wasn't just me, when I asked a cop how safe the train station was at 3am he responded with “How many guns do you have?”. So I was able to stay at Dennys for a few hours until it was time to take a taxi to the station. And on my way to Montreal.

When the train crossed the border it took a long time before the customs cleared us. And I wasn't sure if I would get through as I didn't know if I needed a visa. But no problems and we rolled into Montreal at about 8.30. Its a really nice city, I was quite surprised at how strong the French influence is. I found it odd that when I started learning Spanish, all my college French started coming back to me. But when I tried to speak French my Spanish came back to me. But more often than not, when ever I tried to speak French they would answer me in English!! So sometimes you just cant win. My favorite part of Montreal would be the massive church that we visited, although I'm not sure of the name. The french influence is much stronger than I thought. And I did like the French pastries and tasty tretas! But after 2 busy days of seeing Montreal is was back onto the train and heading to New York again.............

Times up!! Its over, snap back to reality.....

2009-08-21T06:34:00.001-07:00

Well, I was warned. And as much as I tried to resist it the last 11 or 12 weeks has abosolutly flowen by! I am now on the last strech of my time in Michigan and at camp. What a great summer it has been. Especially since it was 10 months long and counting! I guess I havn't really given justice to the time at camp via this blog. Perhaps I never will as there are so many experiances that I cant translate into writing. Or perhaps later on I will get a chance to share some stories or experiances as they filter through.

I have to say that right now this certainly was worth doing and I have definately growen through it. I guess the full extent wont be realised untill much later on, but there have been times when I have been pushed like never before.

As the hours wear down, my anticipation grows. I am really excited about this next stage. Over the next two weeks I will get to have some great experiances as I travel around the U.S (or parts of at least) And more importantly get to meet up with some great friends again. Starting with tonight where I will meet up with one of my oldest friends. (as in almost 20 years of knowing each other) So I am really amped about that.

I am still highly nervous about moving to London, and right now it could possibly be one of the scaryest things I've ever done. But if there was ever a time for a 'leap of faith' this is it! And I am sure every thing will work out for the best.

But for now its time to finish up at camp and go and have fun with the kids and crew for 1 last day!!

Switch

2009-08-09T16:56:00.000-07:00

Well life as a residential camp councilor came to an and about 3 weeks ago, when I was transferred into day camp. Which is pretty much day care.
The last residential camp feels like such a long time ago, its hard to remember much about it. But I have to admit the greatest compliment I could have got was when campers would ask if they could be transferred into my group. Or when they jump out of the vans and say 'Am I with you?!' I had some pretty good times with the residential campers and I hope I served them well.

I had applied to stay at camp as an intern, which meant I would have been here for a year. While it would have been a great experience. Its not meant to be this time around.
However day camp is great fun, and much more laid back. Instead of 7 or 8 - 11, I now work 8.30- 4.30 or there abouts. Depending on the weeks and what needs to be done. So for the first week it felt like I was on holiday, and some times felt like I should have been doing more. Most days we spend around 2.5 hours at the pool. Another thing that always surprises me is that I can swim topless with out any sunscreen on my back, without fear of getting the worst sunburn of my life. That could not happen back home!!

However it took most of that time to get my travel sorted out for after camp. So now with that sorted out I feel a lot more relaxed. On the 21st of August I will finish work at 3 and pretty much go straight to the airport to take a 6pm flight to New York to hang out with some friends for the weekend. Then on Monday take the train to Niagara falls, arriving at 4.30pm and leaving at 3.30am the next morning to head to Montreal, where I will spend 2 days. On Friday go back to NY on the train to meet up with another friend where we will head down to Philadelphia so I can go on the 'Rocky steps'. (which I am sooo looking forward to!) Then I pretty much have 5 days in NY sight seeing. Then on Friday the 4th I'll go down to Arizona to see a friend from home for the weekend, then on Monday head back to JFK airport at 4 ish, to depart again for London at 9.30. So its going to be a pretty full on trip but a great one no doubt!

While I don't have any set plans for the U.K just yet, I'm sure things will work out for the best. And the good Lord won't leave me hanging.

So as I enter into the last 2 weeks of camp, I find myself reflecting on what I've learnt and the experiences I've had. I'm sure the full effect of my experiences will become apparent as time goes on. But there are more things that I've come to appreciate as I watch the kids. I am reminded of many of my child hood memory's. Most good, not all. But one that I always think of when I'm at the pool. Is when Catherine and I were young, and for some reason Cathrine wanted to stand on my shoulders. Of course the water was too deep for me to stand in so I almost drowned!
I somehow ended up teaching (or trying to teach) some of the kids how to swim. Only from what I know, but it really made me appreciate how many kids don't have the opportunity to learn to swim. And possibly don't have regular access to a pool. Even though I'm not a strong swimmer I can swim to save myself. And for that I am grateful.

I think I have more to say. But for now I cant remember. So roll on the next entry!

The re-cap. Just like on LOST

2009-07-12T12:58:00.000-07:00

So because I normally am running out of time to update I tend to miss a few things. So I thought I would do a re-cap to let you know about any thing that I havn't yet covered.

Maybe I should start with an average camp day at camp....
Well I share a room with 2 other guys, we have our own bathroom. Which I am very thankfull of as there is only 2 showers for up to 40 people up stairs. Downstairs is the same but for more people (if our building is full, which has only happened one camp so far). Our building is seperate from the rest of camp, but to be fair its a very spread out venue. The difference is that the boys building is one big building, where as the girls have 5 or 6 smaller buildings that each have 10-14 people and 1 or 2 showers per building (I think).
So once I wake up (time will depend on schedule but somewhere between 7 and 7.40) I have an hour or so to get ready, and make sure my guys are getting ready to be at flag on time. Once there the flags (U.S and Salvation Army) are raised, a prayer is said for breakfast and we are dismissed group by group to the dinning hall. After which there may be a camp meeting in which we have worship. Then the kids go to a class or activity, I will either go with them or go to where ever I am scheduled. Following that it could be free time, which means campers can pick an activity thats open that they want to do. Which could be archery, pool, climing wall, high or low ropes course etc. I will either be assigned to help facilitate an activity or be able participate and have fun. Flag pole and lunch, then the cycle is repeated give or take. Some times there might be a camp wide activity etc. Dinner and usually (not nessecarily in this order) another activity/ class, worship service, free time, call to cabins, cabin devotions and lights out around 11. Which means if its a good camp I will go to bed shortly after if not I have previously been still up arround 12-1 waiting for every one to go to sleep. or at least quiet down.

Points of interest-
I really like seeing the wild life in the forrest, like squirels, chipmonks, deer, etc. Its just like Bambi. The deer here are comfortable enough to be grazing quite close to humans. We had 2 a week or so ago about 40-50 meters from my room window, unfortunately there is a hunting season in which you can hunt the deer. When I was at my friends dads house last weekend I heard a wood pecker which was quite cool, well maybe would have been had it not been 6am!
I also have seen turtles which were quite cool.

I've gained about 6kg back while being here , so I am going to try and loose that again.

And I dont really feel out of place here, as the outdoors life style is very similar to living in Rotorua or another area where there is lakes. Some times I forget I'm in the U.S. The only thing I occasionally notice is the lack of hills. When we were driving the other weekend I kept on thinking I would see the ocean or a big lake because of the lack of hills. I was assured that there was just plenty more of the same.

The weather is very much like home, I'm not sure what time it gets light but it doesn't really get dark untill about 10pm. This week we were playing soccer untill 9.45 which is pretty sweet.

thats all i can think of right now, but feel free to ask questions. If theres spelling errors, its because I'm out of time!

Im glad I have travel insurance....

2009-07-12T12:24:00.000-07:00

This week was Ranger and Girl Guard Camp that just finished. (Ranger is the equivilent of Scouts) So far this was my favorite camp. The organiser had some great ideas (that I havn't seen before) and wasn't afraid to get involved with the fun. Weather it was shaving cream in her hair or being throwen in the pool fully clothed with cell phone by some people that had kidnapped and ransomed her dog! I should point out that the organiser took the role of "Camp Sheriff" and would arrest people for various things, the punishment was always fun and normally resulted in some form of challenge. To the point where it wasn't an uncommon question from a camper to ask 'Will I get a warrent tonight?'. The sheriff would usually do arrests after lights out (so about 11.30). One night 2 of my guys were issued with a warrent for 'being wimps' their punishment- To do a night zipline/ flying fox, which is pitch black!. The other time the other 2 of my guys and I were warrented (im not quite sure for what) but the punishment a midnight pontoon ride out to a spot on the lake for a midnight swim.
That was actually one of my favorite times of that camp, as after that we helped the Camp director escape from a pack of volunteers who he had double crossed. (they were going to get a group with water guns etc, but the director warned the first group who in turn ambushed the ambushers) We (the organiser 2 other staff and 4 campers) approached the ambushers in a van (we were obstructed by tinted windows) they thought they were being picked up in. Untill we piled out with water ballons and ambushed them. However due to their superior water guns we came out worse off.... Untill they decided to form a human chain in front of the camp gate, lets just say when I'm driving it dosen't pay to sit in front of a van. Heavy vechiles will always win. One person had to learn the hard way, although he walked away in the end.

But while were on the topic of vehicles and people, the other funny thing that happened on monday was that I ran out infront of a car. 1 second earlyer it i probably wouldn't be writing this now. Earlier in the day I had stressed to my crew the importance of being at the flag on time. However because I was at the pool prior to flag I thought I was going to be late. So when I saw 2 of my guys standing by the falg pole not knowing where to line up I started running and went a way that is slightly faster, but requires cutting through some trees and onto the camp road. Because of the trees you cant see to the left. So as i stepped out onto the road imagine my surprise when all of a sudden there is a van right there. So I slowed down as much as I could but still hit the side of the bonnet and rolled with the car. Once I regaind my composure I appologised to the driver who now has a small dent in the side panel of her van. She was happy that I was ok. And because of flag I had to leave, walking away with a slight grase on my elbow and a brused shoulder. Im starting to wonder if that is how my life will end, because thats the second time in 3 months that I've almost been seriously injured by a car! - Im glad I have travel insurance!
Once there i found out that 2 of my guys saw it and thought it was hillarious. So I stressed that even though I was hit by a car I still wasn't late to flag!!!

4th of July Celebrations

2009-07-05T18:54:00.000-07:00

Music camp and kids camp are now done and dusted. And what a difference in kids!, for the music camp my crew was mid teens and for the kids they were either 10 or 11.

Prior to music camp I was talking to another staff member about weather or not I would prefere young kids or older kids. Well after having both now I have to say that I definatly prefere the older groups they are definately less needy. The younger kids constantly felt the need to bring everything to my attention even the things that I have no control over, like "I lost my shoe"....

The one thing I didn't like about kids camp is how one of the guys decided it would be a good idea to pee in the trash can. I couldn't work out why the room smelled and thought one of the kids had wet the bed, however when I went to empty the trash can I found out the truth the hard way. I was sooooo annoyed. Older campers definately dont have those kind of issues..

During music camp we had a massive storm which was so exciting, because there was a tornado warning. The thunder here is insane, it was s cool untill the power cut. Which at first was fun but when I found out that with out power there was no water (because it turns out water pumps need power) and with no water there were no flushing toilets. The novelty soon wore off especially with over 200 people on site. It wasn't untill the next day that the power was back on and we were back to normal.

Also I should mention - on an unrelated note- that from my room to the dining hall its a good 4 minute walk. So hopefully that might give you an indication of how big camp is.

Yesterday was the 4th of July, because we had a 3 day weekend I went with a friend to his dads house a little further north. Because we (his dad) had an invitation to a party. But for me the conection was...my friends dads girlfriends sons wifes parents (truth not cliched) were the host of the party. And what a party, this guys house was massive. He had an attached gagrage just for his rock star/tour bus on one side of the house and a 4 car garage on the other side. Which had a Dodge Viper parked in one of the spots. Apparently he invited 250 people but there definatlely wern't that many people at any one time. And no one knows how many people came between 2 and 10 that it was going for. He had to inflateable attractions, a normal buncey castle and a slide. Not to mention the slushy machines and a cotton cany machine. Along with the generous amount of dinner at 7.30 20 pizzas turned up! And who knows how much soda and alcohol there was. But the pinacle of the party was the 25 minute long fire works display. Which now I'm dissapointed I didn't take my camera, because with a full moon behind the fire works there would have been some majic shots!

But now I am back at camp ready to face another bunch of campers tomorrow, but for now once agian it is kurfew time so I had better go.

Love to all, and all to love. (it that Brian Adam?

2 Camps down, roll on the next

2009-06-19T19:48:00.000-07:00

Just before we got to camp I decided to give Subway once more shot at redemption. And I have to admit the northern version of Subway is much better and more like home than my previous experiance in L.A.

After a week of orientation and getting to know every body, we then had a few days of senior camp. Which was actually good fun, most of them were good for a laugh and always a good chat.

We have just had the first 'real' camp this week which was teen camp. Mostly kids from the Detroit area. I had 10 kids 16-17 yrs old, 8 of which were from Detroit. I have to admit going into the camp I had been told told a lot of previous bad experiances so I was highly nervous. And by monday evening I was very nervous that my group would implode as there were a few minor conflicts that I thought might esculate. Tues morn I was questioning what I was doing here and thinking that I'm not cut out to deal with the kids due to how different our life experiances were. how ever at Tues devotion time I told the crew about my upbringing etc, and what I had experianced. After that (not nessecarily because of) things got much better. And by the end of the week I was/ am very tired but so pleased how it went. No incidences or dramas. I must admit though I did have help from lots of people in the camp team.

So tomorrow we have a new camp that starts, I feel much more comfortable to be here now. So hopefully all goes well.

Well I'm now going to have to run to my room as even we have a curfew of 11.

We dont get much time for emails etc, which is why any news / updates will be slow.

Hope all is well!

5 Airports in 2 days

2009-06-19T19:29:00.000-07:00

Wow, so little to write and so much time..Wait scratch that and reverse it. So much to write and so little time.

Long story short, when I left Peru I didn't have the card that they give you on entry so I was delayed more than I would have liked. But after they scamed me for another $5 U.S I was on my way. I was fortunate enough to have an empty seat next to me from Lima to Miami which ment that I had the advantage of a window and leg space!
How ever once in Miami at customs i couldn't find the paper work for my visa so was very nearly bounced out of the country. But thank fully I had it with my other paper work it was just hiding.....wow theres an awsome thunder storm right now. we just had the loudest thunder I have heard in a long time. But I digress, So from Miami to Chicago for the night. After a bit of walking around with my 25kg bag I forund the accomodation and started a quick tour of Chicago. I managed to get to the Sears tower which is another 'wonder' off my list. And see a few other places before it was too unsafe at night. Chicago is a very nice city and would quite like to go back one day. I couldn't get over how many 'Dunkn Doughnuts' there were, seriously like 1 every 100 meters.

The next day was an early start and a train ride to the airport. Because Chicago airport is sooo big (the American Airlines terminal alone is prob 3-4 times if not more, the size of Wellington airport) I spent a bit of time walking around. But under estimated the walk back to the gate. Along with the flight leaving 10 mins earlyer than on my itinerary, so when i got to the terminal the gate was actuyally closed!!!!! I had missed it by a couple of mins. I was spewing, but after explaining the previous reasons, I was allowed to board the plane and very releived to do so!.

A short flight later I was in Flint where I had to wait a couple of hours for an Irish couple and the person to pick us up. So i decided to get some sleep and was eventually woken by being jumped on by the guy that I would be sharing a room with.
And once the couple turned up off we went to Camp!!!!!!!!!!!!!.........

The countdown is on

2009-05-24T09:33:00.000-07:00

So I have 3 more days after today, and cant wait. I've had a great time here but certainly looking forward to my next adventure in the U.S!!

Since the jungle which was around 3 weeks ago, my time here has just passed with a couple of mountain biking days, sight seeing and shopping. I guess its still a little too early to start reflecting on my time here. But I have certainly had some great experiences and met some great people. There are some things that I wont miss of course, like being sick often. I think that I have been more sick here in the last 11 weeks than I have in the last 2 year plus! I woke up this morning with an upset stomach and dreaded that I might have another bout of sickness so close to my flight. But as I write this I think the worst has passed.

As much as I am looking forward to the states, it is starting to play on my mind what might happen when I get to the U.K in regards to work etc. But I'll cross that bridge when I get there!

But for now, I am just enjoying my last 3.5 days in Cusco!!

Its a jungle out there

2009-05-18T10:46:00.000-07:00

Manu Jungle, its part of the cloud forest on the outskirts of the

Amazon. We stayed at an "Eco" lodge. Which Im now sure "Eco" is just a good way to charge a high rate but give a low product/ service. Considering that there was no power there fore no hot water! It was an interesting experience starting with the bus ride!

Leaving the house at 4.30 the day after Macha Picchu was a big ask. Because I didn't get home till around 10 the night before and by the time I had packed for the jungle, I probably only managed around 3 hours sleep. I didn't think it would be an issue given that I was staring down the barrel of a 10 hour bus ride.

However due the the first half being ridiculous cold and the 2nd half being a 4wd track that was not suited for bus's of any kind. Before we hit the gravel I decided to try and lie down on the back seat. However the road was so bumpy I felt like I was back on the Indiana Jones Ride at Disneyland!

I was dropped off a couple of hundred meters up from the lodge, and give 2 box's of food a 20 liter bottle of water as well as my gear. Well not all the water made it, I put the bottle down too fast and on the wrong angle and cracked it. Oppps....

Once I found the place and tried to explain who I was and checking if it was the right place. I went back for the water only to have lost a small amount. Well maybe a 1/4 but the glass was still over half full!

I was there to volunteer to plant trees which we only ended up doing twice. But it was quite draining having to do physical work again. Which was either because of the vegetarian diet, the fact that I haven't worked physically in 2 months or due to the humidity. What ever the cause it was more taxing than I would have liked.

I have to admit that by wednesday I was going a bit stir crazy there's only so much reading one can do. I decided not to wear my watch so I found it interesting when after dinner (which we would have when it was dark) my body would tell me to go to sleep. And on the occasion that I looked at my watch it was only 7.30!

One of the highlights was repelling down a water fall without any safety gear of any kind. The rope was more of an aid so that you had to have something to hold on to.

But the monkey was just cool, now I want one as a pet!

It really is a wonder!

2009-05-18T10:04:00.000-07:00

So finally the email is working long enough to update on my adventures!

Going to the town below Macha Picchu ( Im not even going to try and spell it but the english translation is "Hot water'') was an experience, it was the first trip out of Cusco that I have done by myself. Which was a little intimidating given that my spanish is so limited. Even after a few calls to a friend to check that I was on the right bus at the right time heading to the right train station. But I made it there in the end, to meet my Peruvain friend Hans.

The next day was an early start to get on the bus's early so that we could get tickets to Huayna Picchu, (the mountain in the back of the picture) however we were to late and didn't get the tickets as they only let 400 people up per day. We got there at about 7 and for the next few hours the place was covered in low cloud. It wasn't until around 10am that the cloud started to lift. And the sun came out. But crikey when it did come out it was intensely hot.

After walking around, up and down the site for a few hours and taking many photos along the way. We had still only seen part of the site. It really is quite big.

We also walked out to see an Inca Bridge that was built for a second access, but was destroyed to avoid enemies attacking. And then of course reconstructed for the tourists benefit.

I now know why its one of the wonders of the world - Its a wonder why they built such a big village/settlement on such a freak'n steep mountain top!

But all the same I am pleased to have gone and tick off one of 42 Wonders of the World that I have to see. ( I have a wonders of the world book, I would like to see all of them before I die)

So thats one down....

I'd like to say my life flashed before my eyes..

2009-04-21T10:36:00.000-07:00

So late last week, I went to see someone at the international office for information on volunteering in the jungle. I was given a form for my name, D.O.B and when I wanted to go. I took a stab at dates (next monday to friday). He made a call and told me that it was all arranged. So I basically went in for information and got signed up, with out getting much information!

So on monday the 27th I head to Manu, to volunteer to plant trees for four hours a day and have the rest of the day for walks and bird watching. So I am very excited about that. And the best thing is that it should only cost me $20 Us, where as to do a tour it could cost up to and above $300 US!

Also this Sunday I will go to Machu Picchu with Hans (not a very Peruvian name I know) my tandem language partner. He's studying to be a tour guide so I will get a personalized tour of 'The Piche' and because I wont be booking through an agency I should be able go go for considerably less. Which suits me just fine!.

On Saturday after a walk through a valley, I was walking down a street near the center of town. And turned to talk to someone behind me, however due to the slippery smooth stones on the streets and roads. I slipped on the curb and fell on to the road, so the sound of many screeching brakes. I was luckily enough that the driver of the car hurtling towards me was paying attentions and quick to stop as the car literally stopped less than an inch from my shoulder. Had either one of us been a second late and a different result could have occurred. I'd like to say my life flashed before my eyes, but if it did I need to live more!

On Sunday (past) two guys from project took me and another house and volunteer mate out to a lake. They talked about how beautiful this lake was however they have not seen the lakes we have. But I got back in time to head over to Pisac market again.

Today the coordinators from GVN (the organization I came through) were here, it was funny to hear such a strong kiwi accent again!

3 city tour of duty in Peru

2009-04-15T11:15:00.000-07:00

So after Puno, plans were set to head to the south and visit Ariquipa. Due to holy week most of the house didn't have to go to projects so it was a great opportunity for another trip. This time is was the same crew as last time plus one that we met in Ariquipa.

We planed to leave on wend night, however as luck would have it on tuesday I began to feel very ill. Another friendly welcome from Cusco. Tuesday night I had serious doubts that I should go, and being woken every hour with an urgency for the bathroom did not help. However by tuesday afternoon I decided to take the gamble and go. So I went to my project which I had to leave early and head straight to the local version of Mc Donalds as I hadn't eaten much in the last 24 hours plus. I know fast food isn't the best idea but I had cravings. So a mad dash back to the house and then a taxi drive that went the long way around. The bus station is 5 mins walk but we thought it might be quicker to take the taxi, given that we had to be there at 8.30 and thats when we left the house. We were wrong the taxi took longer.

So once again we boarded the bus looking down the barrel of an 8-9 hour bus ride. We arrived safe and sound at about 6.30 met up with our friend, had breakfast and started to walk around. We found a massive monastery that we had been told about and spent literally 3 hours walking around. It was pretty interesting but after couple of hours all the rooms started to look the same.

After that we found another church to visit, but after it was time for a pizza lunch and then a relax in the square. Being holy week there were plenty of Peruians just loitering but soon enough the church's started opening up for Easter celebrations and all of a sudden the town came alive. For some reason Spider man, Barney and plenty of others also turned up which made for great pics.

We caught up with the two other volunteers from my project and had a drink with them, which was harder than it sounds as they don't sell alcohol on holy days. But sure enough it was time to get back on the bus for another 12 hours!

This time my stomach was not being friendly which meant that I had another sleepless night, the third in a row. But before to long we arrived in a very hot Ica. We took a cab out to Wachachina a lagoon town found a backpackers with a pool and relaxed until lunch. The restaurant we went to had such service was soo slow I was the last to get lunch and turned it away when it came 25 mins after the others had theirs. We had to go to a wine tour anyways. The tour was interesting we saw how they make Pisco a local sweet wine. And went to a chocolate place.

But it was soon time for a dune adventure and sand boarding! the reason for almost 40 hours of bus trip. It was amazing and so worth it!

That night despite the loud bar music at the pool I had a great sleep, just a shame it was so short! We had to be up at 6.30 to head out to the coast.

On saturday we went out to the 'Poor mans galapagos' which was great to be at another coast in the world and it was crazy hot. The rest of the day passed quickly back at the lagoon. We missioned up to the top of one of the sand mountains for the sun set. And then back to Ica for another 15 hour bus ride!

The 15 hour bus ride turned into a 17 hour bus ride which by the end we were all getting a little stir crazy. Especially me as my Ipod and my phone were both flat!! But we made it home eventually!

So now I'm back at Cusco and in my new room on the other side of the house, so I am finally getting some unbroken sleep! And for a change Cusco sky is blue, so I'm heading out to see the sun!

Travels around Peru- Puno

2009-04-14T08:50:00.000-07:00

So this is the third time i am writing this as the last 2 times the computer froze after I tried to load a picture on here from my flash drive. So here goes again...

Time is passing so quickly here. On thursday I will be at the half way mark. 5 weeks passed and 5 weeks to go! I'm already looking forward to going to the U.S for things like cold drinks, cleaner public toilets and K.F.C!

So since my last update I have started a tandem language exchange, it has been really good and my spanish is slowly getting better. However due to sickness, travel and now strikes we have only met for half the time.

On the first weekend of the month we had tickets to see "The Village People" however for what ever reason they canceled around lunch on friday. So by 4 on friday a plan was being hatched to go to Puno to see the reed islands. And by 10 we were on a bus, a sleepless night a bumpy road and 8 hours later we arrived in Puno. As soon as we left the bus we were hounded by lots of people selling tours, taxi's or a countless amount of other stuff that just wasn't necessary at 6am!.

So after an average breakfast at gringo prices we went to our company who eventually took us to the dock. A 45 min boat ride to the islands was nice, we made land fall. The islands were actually quite interesting, I had heard that they were quite touristy. I wasn't misinformed, after the guide gave the talk on life on the island all the trinkets came out, and locals tried to sell almost anything. I considered buying a house as the view is quite nice, but its a long way to go for a holiday house. We then moved onto another (actual) island however it was a 2.5 hour boat ride, and a very slow ride at that. I was good to catch up on some sun and finally see a blue sky again. When we made land fall we steeped onto an island that had a very mediterranean feel. But the steep walk up to the village for lunch was not appreciated after a sleepless night, 2.5 hours of lying down and being at altitude. However after we walked around the village and had a lunch of trout (which was very nice) there was a performance of traditional dance by the local people. And then a walk back down the other side of the island to another 3 hour boat ride back to port. I have to admit I wasn't too keen on going to the islands but now I'm glad I went, it was worth it.

But once back at port we found a place for dinner, had a walk around Puno and jumped back onto the bus for an 8 hour bus ride home! We arrived at 5 am and it was straight to sleep, only to be woken by a new room mate coming in at 7.30.

On Sunday we went to a local soccer game/ peruvian bbq that was a fundraiser for someone who was pinned for crime he didn't commit. Here you are literally guilty until proven innocent and given that to get innocent you need a lawyer, which is hard given the average wage. Most people are left in jail.

On Monday I went mountain biking to see some ruins in the Sacred Valley, the up hills were average and harder than I had expected with the altitude but the down hills were awesome. It turns out we were slower than the guide would have preferred as we were late for the bus we were supposed to be on. But no stress there are plenty more, we got back into town just in time to head to the square to meet some others from the house for the procession of Jesus. An even that marks the start of Holy week. There were soo many people we literally couldn't move, and lots of short old Peruvian ladies gave me wicked looks because I was tall. Its not my fault their short. It was only on the way home that I found that despite my bag being on my front it still got slashed on the side. Luckily it was just my jersey (that I brought here) that suffered, I'm not fixing it as a souvenir from Cusco.

So thats enough for now, I'll update last week soon.

Love to all

I'm sure I speak english!

2009-03-31T14:23:00.001-07:00

In the year before leaving home, I was asked 3 times where I was from because I sounded American, here I have been asked if I am English and South African....

I've always thought that I don't have a 'typical' NZ accent, or if I do its certainly not a thick one. So I find it quite odd when living in a house of Americans, Canadians, Germans an Australian (and one other Kiwi) that I occasionally have to get translated!! what's with that??

At the project they are taught things that I don't recall learning at school, in English we were taught Shakespeare and poetry etc, not past perfect particable.... So occasionaly I get stuck on which sentence is past perfect ect. To be fair I'm not the only volunteer thats been confused.

Funny story - one of the guys I tutor was stuck on pronouncing 'Romantic' we broke it down and went over and over it. But by the time he got it he was totally saying it with a Kiwi accent- not my intention!

This weekend I went with some other house members to Ollyntambo a ruins town in the Sacred Valley, we took a taxi (which was actually very new) there which only took an hour and a bit. However on the way back we had to take the bus which was not nearly as comfortable and much slower. So the hour there turned into 2 hours plus return trip. But it was still worth it.

Tomorrow I start with a tandem language exchange. So that should be good, it will force me to work on my Spanish. When I got out my books today I found that I had left me dictionary at the project. I hope its there when I get there soon!!!

The real Cusco...

2009-03-27T12:59:00.000-07:00

So this week didn't quite pan out how I had thought....

Long story short I didn't sign up for a tandem language exchange, and due to having no Spanish classes this week I decided to have a laid back week. Which was actually GREAT! It felt like the first time in a while that I could just hang out, (holidays are a different kind of 'hanging out' as there are still things to be done, cooking, places to go etc) I didn't have to worry about cooking or cleaning or doing dish's. Its been awsome.

However I haven't just been sitting around watching DVD's....well I have watched a few. On Wend I went (with some other people from the house) walking around town and into the suburban hills of Cuzco. It was great we got some awsome views of the city. As well as visiting one of the Cathedrals which was really quite spectacular. Yesterday there were plans to go white water rafting but due to weather it didn't go happen. And today we went out to one of the ruins in the outskirts of the city. Those Incas had some pretty amazing skills when it came to stone masonry. We also visited a town that is famous for bread. And I can see why. It really does have nice bread! And for about $2.70 I brought a wheel of bread that is literaly about as big as a steering wheel. Crispy on the out side, sweet and kind on aniseedy on the inside.

So it occured to me that while I've been writing a lot about my adventures. I don't think I've really said much about Cusco itself. My initial impression of a city either half constructed or half deconstructed still stands. There are lots and lots of stray dogs running around the city. Some are more scared of humans, some bark worse than they bite, but the rest actually want to bite! And considering I didn't get a rabies shot, I try and avoid all dogs at all cost!

The town square (Plasa de Armos?) is very safe even at night. It may be because of the strong security presence though. We have a few security guards that roam the neighbourhood as well I'm not sure what would happen it the event of needing help though. Im pretty sure the two largest forms of employment here is security and taxi drivers. There's thousands of them, and they all drive cars that were built in Korea for use in factories only. They are similar to a Dihatsu Chirade, small boxy and no suspension, which you really notice on these streets that are half ruined or half constructed. Occasionaly a nice car comes along, usually its a new/ newish Hilux that is part of a security company or police.

The polution is really thick here, so bad you can taste it. When walking around town I often have a burning sensation in my nose (which I hope is from pollution).

Before coming here I was warned about the street kids pick pocketing. Well I'm glad to say that no such thing has happened (Yet!) There defenatly arn't bunch's of kids trying to rip off the gringos. But I'm still cautious. However 'gringo tax' is prolific - where gringos are charged more than a Peruvain would be, my spanish teacher taught me how to say 'Please, my father is Peruvian'. It hasn't worked yet... but I'll keep trying.

There are plenty of homeless people who literally live on the street or where ever you might go to spend money resturaunts ect. I find it a constant battle every time I pass someone who has their hat out. On one side I struggle with the fact that I will go home to a warm house, dinner on the table and clean cloths and money in the bank/ pocket. But on the other hand, I cant save the world and I certainly cant help every one that has their hand out.

Well I better get ready to go to my project. Have a good 1

The Highs and Lows of Cucso

2009-03-22T16:08:00.000-07:00

So on Thursday I and another house member went for a walk up to one of the hills behind the house. It was a fair walk and still quite hard given the altitude. I think that at the top we were either higher than or very close to being higher than the highest mountain in NZ!. Once we got to the top there was a great view of Cusco (see profile pic), it was good to put things into perspective and see how the city is put together. It helped me to understand why I get woken every morning by what I now know are planes given that the airport is so close!!

So that was the up, now for the down... I came down with some form of sickness. It was not pleasant at all. I'm told its an 'initiation' to Cusco. However I can think of many more enjoyable initiations. Thankfully it passed relatively quickly, someone else had something for 4 days!! So by last night I was 95% which was good as we had our international party at the language school. Which was a bit of fun.

Today I went out to Pisac market which was about 45 mins outside the city. It was nice to get out into the country and get a taste of the more local/real Peru. Well at least away from the heavy pollution!

So now I head into another week, a more settled week. At this stage I only have night project. But I will sign up for a tandem language exchange, where I meet up with a Peruvain who's learning English and we help each other learn the opposite language.

Have a great week

Its a Peruvain life for me

2009-03-19T09:40:00.000-07:00

So its now about midday on Thursday.
And I have to admit that after a few days here I am in a much better place (mentally/ emotionally) than i was last time I updated.

Now that I am familiar with the area (well more familiar) and know a few people things are going well. After orientation on Monday I went to my project that night. At first I wasn't that happy with it as we had about 5 volunteers to about 10 students and we start at 6pm and finiah at 9pm. And considering that the class is all much older than me its not quite what I expected. On the first day our role was to assist the students with learning. They pay a small fee which goes towards the ´kids shelter´where the classes are held. The shelter is for street kids from 6 or 7 to maybe late teens. Where they pay half a sole per night to sleep on the floor (which I think is about NZ$0.25)
But the last 2 nights we have been doing tutoring which has been alot more interesting. So its more 1 on 1, and so far the students have been reading from a provided book and I help with pronounciation which in some words when they dont have the same sounds is very hard for them. But probably no different for an English speaker trying to pronounce Spanish words.
So far I have been walking to school for Spanish class and then home (20 mins each way) and then home to project (40 mins) however due to the darkness I take a taxi home at night for about NZ$1.50. So its pretty good.
At first I wanted to change the project as it wasnt quite what I had in mind and was a little inconvienient, given that at the house dinner is served at 7. But after consideration I decided that an attitude like that was probably a little selfish. And now have the previous nights dinner before going to project. Now I am considering doing a second project in the after noon. But I will see how my days are next week when I have no more spanish class's.

The house- man sometimes I feel guilty I wake up and breakfast is on the table, a chef cooks me eggs. And I have a bowl of fruit. The house keeper makes my bed, even though I make it she always remakes it!! At one point I tryed to ask her not to worry, but with her limited English and my limited Spanish, I couldn't get my point across. So just left it.
After class i come home to a waiting lunch, and like yesterday watched T.V in the afternoon while the chef cooked dinner!! - but to be fair, I have paid a lot of money to be here when you consider local rates. However on consideration I dont think I´d want to live with a local family.
Its really cool in the 'family house' to have other volunters to hang out with or just talk to in English!

So I think its time for me to walk home to my waiting lunch!!!

Hope your all well

WHY DIDN"T SOMEONE TALK ME OUT OF THIS AHHHH!!!

2009-03-15T18:30:00.000-07:00

Well at least that was what I was thinking as we came in to land!.....

Flying over Cusco was very beautiful most what you might expect from Tuscany or something. But a lot more hills and mountains! As we came into land it was a completely different story. My first impression was a city of either heavy deconstruction or reconstruction. Buildings looked half finished roads were either being rebuilt or never built in the 1st place piles of rubbel everywhere and mangie dogs all over the show.

You know how sometimes you get 'butterflies', man I had like Eagles flying around as we came in to land. I had no idea where I was heading, I didn't have an address or a contact. (I didn't get a chance to print it before I left) I didn't even know if any one was going to pick me up!! So by the time we landed I was very tired and 'frasseled' maybe to say the least.

After getting my bag my tension went through the roof when there was no one to meet me. And wether it was related or just the altitude but my heart was beating pretty fast. So after a few minutes of probably looking like a possum caught in the head lights. I asked someone in the best Spanish I could muster and was told to go out side.

When I saw a guy with my name it was like a mountain lifted off my shoulders. So we jumped in a cab which was pretty rustic and probably wouldnt get a NZ W.O.F. Its probably like a Diahatsu Chirade.

As we drove through the streets to the language center i was in a constant roller coaster of "What have I done" and "this wont be soo bad".

So we made it to the language center where I was overwhelmed with names and information, and as we traveled through town I was on another rollercoaster. For some reason we went through the longest way and every turn I was stoked with the hice houses, we'd turn a corner and hit rough houses and i'd freak again. That happened like 5 times.

Once we got to the house I had breakfast and pretty much fell straight asleep for a few hours.

So once i was rested and met a few other people at the house. Things looked alot brighter.

On my first day, I pretty much rested all day just adjusted and now i'm so glad I came here early to adjust. Yesterday we went to a few markets and to day we saw a local soccer game and the town center. But I was still pretty washed out and a mild headace from adjusting to the altitude.

So now I feel much happier and comfortable with where I am. And tomorrow I have orientation day.....

Hope your all well.

WHAT AM I DOING!!

2009-03-13T01:06:00.001-07:00

So I'm now in Lima (I actually have been on the last 2 blogs - i just broke them up for eaiser reading) But I landed at like 12 (local time) and leave at like 5. its 3 now although I think my body says its 12 (L.A time). Its all very confusing especially when I tryed to work out the NZ time.

The flight was fine. Except the attendants didn't like to speak english very much and had a lot of attitude. Once I got to Aneheim and realised how many Spanish there were I thought I should have practiced more. Its funny how they would almost look down on you for not speaking Spanish. HOLA TURISTA TOWN!!
So it was only when I started seeing the lights of Lima that I started freaking out (slightly) I was like 'what am I doing!!??' I dont speak spanish and I dont even know if ill be picked up in Cusco. Which reminds me I should probably find the contact for them....
Once cleared through customs (for a moment I thought I was going to get bounced for not having some information, turns out they are pretty laid back and I was over reacting) I had somthing to eat and calmed down. Now I feel a little more confident about the next leg of the journey..... i just have to stay awake for another 2 or 3 hours....

update soon.

hope your well

L .A

2009-03-13T00:48:00.000-07:00

Man, what a big city.
I kind of agree that Disney land could quite possibly be 'the happyest place in the world' or maybe I've just been brainwashed by hearing it a thousand times a day at Disney.

After getting to the hotel, the room wasn't ready so i went to try and find lunch. I found Subway (eat fresh..) but never again in the U.S it was Gaustly (as Mr S Turner would say). And soon enough went to DISNEY!!! what a cool place. Because Sunday was busier i just walked around and took a few photos. I dedcided to wait untill monday to do the rides when the lines would be smaller. It was a good plan. Although I got there later than I would have liked on Monday i went to as many rides as i could. However I thought that it would close at 12 like the previous night so planned my day around that. But it actually closed at 10! talk about being ripped off. I didn't get to go on the ' Small world ride' it will have to be next time. But it turns out being a 'solo rider' has its advantages. On the Indiana Jones ride I went from the gate straight to the front of the line and onto the next ride. passing people that had probably been waiting for half an hour.

Tuesday was Universal. now thats an interesting place, its funny how things look in real life compared to film.

Wensday was a city tour which was soo cool to see a few movie places. Like the hotel that Arnie rides his horse down the elevator in True Lies. Or go to Hollywood. Which I thought was a little disapointing. quite run down. the only nice bit was where they have the Oscars. Rodeo drive = avarage. theres a few empty shops which makes it too look pretty run down. Saw Johnny Depps house which was cool. And Santa Monica Beach- wow thats a beach, for those playing at home you may recognize it from Baywatch. I even did a little life guarding there with tips from the 'Hoff' (via baywatch)

And today has been prety much traveling to Peru.

Leaving home

2009-03-13T00:36:00.000-07:00

So I'd like to thank mum for the party, Laurna for the help and everyone for coming. Although i initially didn't want one. Now i'm glad I did.

Sunday turned out to be pretty busy, but we got to the airportin the end. And obviously i made the flight! Thanks to all those that came to the airport it was great to have soo many great friends to see me off. I really thought there'd be more tears mainly from me though....

The flight to L.A was nothing special I did have a few panic/ anxioty 'attaks' where i was freakin out thinking 'what have i done' but once i landed and was at the hotel all was well.

Before leaving people kept asking ' Are you excited to be going?' and to be honest for the most part I really wasn't. More nervous about losing something (like a passport) or getting lost. But i think thats just the throws of travel.

What I am expecting though is:
To have my boundaries/comfort zone pushed
To have some very different experiances
meet all sort of interesting people
to have a lot of fun!

The Day Before

2009-03-06T11:26:00.000-08:00

So its Saturday (7Th March) morning, I have just started this. And need to get on and finish packing!!

No time to blog now!