This morning I went to Checkpoint Charlie. It is a very ugly and badly put together museum but holds loads of information on the Berlin Wall. The highlight of the museum is all the escape stories and the radical ways that people crossed the border from east to west. After reading all these heroic stories of survival and courage I was really touched. People were doing so much to get the freedom they deserved.
After that, I went to the Jewish museum. Don't go there. It's expensive and and analytical. To the point where I was really disgusted. It was a poor excuse to say sorry to the Jewish population who was persacuted here. The building had cool architecture and some beautiful symbolism to it. But that's where it ended. It's high time that Germany fess up and say they are sorry. The museum told the cute little history of Jewish people. My arse. Basically analyzing them like they were a species or something. The smallest part of the whole exhibiton was the part on the Second World War. I didn't see a single photo of a tyrant named Hitler or a single swastika. Ok, cool, if you don't want to be offensive. But they hardly even wrote anything down about that troubled period either. Completely turning a blind eye to the situation and diluting the truth. First of all Hitler was Austrian and second of all the Nazis are hated practicaly world wide. Museums are allowed to show the truth in print and phtoography. Thats what they are there for: To help us document history in accuracy and get the facts straight.
After that I went to the Bauhaus Design School expo. Pretty darn interesting. It was one of the most influential art schools of the 20th century to the point where even IKEA got pointers from them. The likes of Klandinsky and Klee tought there. Although the art was pretty cutting edge for their time, it was all too similar. The work was new for the 1920's but within the school it was basically one body of work made by different wannabe artists. And that is where they missed their mark. A lot of art and architecture that we see today is thanks to Bauhuas.
To end my day I went to the East Side Gallery in east Berlin. This is where 1.5 km of the Berlin Wall still stands and have been transformed into paintings depicting peace. Even when the Wall was all still standing artists were flying into Berlin to paint in protest against the wall and its seperation. There is one painting by a Quebec artist but it really sucks. Im glad that some of the Wall still stands because it is a reminder of how greed over people and eventually world power makes some go mad and crazy. And thus, creating inhuman and disturbing oppression. There is nothing more evil then greed and power.
Well goodbye, after the bank I'm off to Lunebourg ( half an hour south of Hamburg) to see the cousins.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Chapter 2: Day 2
This morning I went to the Helmut Newton museum and exposition. I want to be a photographer! (among maney other things) His photography is a fetish and so provocative that it is nearly pornography. Yet, is not because it is only suggested. The intersting thing about his work is that he would take color photographs and only then before developing them turn them into black and white.
During the afternoon I went on a bicycle tour of Berlin. I was riding this real nice Hawaiin beach cruiser and the tour guide was so funny. Im pretty sure I was the only once who understood his mocking sarcastic humor. I kept bursting out laughing and everyone else was just insulted or too afraid to laugh. haha. But the tour was pretty sick and I saw loads of monuments. We also biked through Tiergarten, which would be their Central Park. Yet, only half its size.
During the evening I met up with my reflection. Crazy but true. Imagine me one year older and that would be Macey. She lives in T.dot. And for some strange reason is so alike to me physicaly but more psychologicaly and interest wise that we actually get along really well. We went to this lounge in their 'Plateau Montreal'. The interiour decor of the place was really cool. Set up like a 1950's livingroom and full of 30 year old intellectuals smoking and disgussing. I was in awe of the place. There are a few places like that in Berlin that were created out of Anarchy. It was a movement were people didn't care for the government and continued on with their lives but more or less in secret. Thus, creating pubs out of their livingrooms in order to not conform to Capitalism and propaganda. It was completely independant.
During the afternoon I went on a bicycle tour of Berlin. I was riding this real nice Hawaiin beach cruiser and the tour guide was so funny. Im pretty sure I was the only once who understood his mocking sarcastic humor. I kept bursting out laughing and everyone else was just insulted or too afraid to laugh. haha. But the tour was pretty sick and I saw loads of monuments. We also biked through Tiergarten, which would be their Central Park. Yet, only half its size.
During the evening I met up with my reflection. Crazy but true. Imagine me one year older and that would be Macey. She lives in T.dot. And for some strange reason is so alike to me physicaly but more psychologicaly and interest wise that we actually get along really well. We went to this lounge in their 'Plateau Montreal'. The interiour decor of the place was really cool. Set up like a 1950's livingroom and full of 30 year old intellectuals smoking and disgussing. I was in awe of the place. There are a few places like that in Berlin that were created out of Anarchy. It was a movement were people didn't care for the government and continued on with their lives but more or less in secret. Thus, creating pubs out of their livingrooms in order to not conform to Capitalism and propaganda. It was completely independant.
Chapter 1: Day 1
Today I went to the Hamburger Bahnhof museum. It is filled with works by the likes of Andy Warhol and Jeff Buey. It tends to hold really impressive large scale works. Only photography could explain this 'contemporary' (more like modern under my impression) art.
On a whim I got a haircut. I just popped into a salon and paid 10 euro. I asked to chop off my stringy split ends and crown my forehead with thick bangs. Its different but I think it just might work. Im tired off always looking the same since I was seven. Besides I don't have to be pretty for anybody because I'm pretty sure I'm 'pretty' in the inside. Someone did tell me I looked like Janis Joplin though. haha
And after that I went to see the new Harry Potter. Because its a must. Man I actually was laughing alot. Its pretty funny to be honest. Real good British Humor.
On a whim I got a haircut. I just popped into a salon and paid 10 euro. I asked to chop off my stringy split ends and crown my forehead with thick bangs. Its different but I think it just might work. Im tired off always looking the same since I was seven. Besides I don't have to be pretty for anybody because I'm pretty sure I'm 'pretty' in the inside. Someone did tell me I looked like Janis Joplin though. haha
And after that I went to see the new Harry Potter. Because its a must. Man I actually was laughing alot. Its pretty funny to be honest. Real good British Humor.
Berlin Babe
Berlin is a spralled and stretched out city. It isn't huddled together like Dublin or Montreal. It also happens to be a city 60 million euro in debt. Thus, they hardly even noticed the recession. Because of all the previous attacks on Berlin, the city is constantly reconstructing itself. And because there is a lack of money alot of reconstructed 'building' are plastic printed sheets stretched out on blocks. Yes, pretend buildings to give a sense of the city.
But Berlin is also a city with so much to do.
I have mingled in the city for 3 full days and I'll tell them all in chapters. enjoy
But Berlin is also a city with so much to do.
I have mingled in the city for 3 full days and I'll tell them all in chapters. enjoy
Just a thought on a year off
I highly recomend to take time off from the scholarly institution.
As a witness to my own life, I can attest that you will learn things that school does not have the capacity to teach you. The 'class' will be on yourself. Life will be your teacher for once.
In the past year I have learned more about myself then I have growning up during all my teen years. I have seperated it into three concrete and seperate parts all dealing with location. Because location has actually had a tremendous influence on my learning process.
1- Tofino
-Learned who I was
To a certain degree. But I figured out both good and bad things about myself. What I should change about myself and what I should grow and continue to do. I would say this was sort of like a 'comming of age' because I was not influenced by anything really other then myself. I was away from the media and submerged into nature. I could breathe again and because I wasn't distracted I had time to analyse myself and realise things and patterns about my personality.
2- Dublin
-Learned who 'They' were
This part had nothing to do with me at all. It was strictly about the 'others'. I was learning about a culture and people with whom I was becoming apart of. I was watching and learning. Adapting to a new lifestyle and figuring out how another society works and functions.
3- Europe
-Taking a course in Cultural history
Not that I chose to. But boy am I learning loads. For once, I am surely the outsider. Communicating in foreign languages and quickly adapting to their systems only to be replaced in another foregin situation. Truly thrilling.
You can't learn any of this in school, atleast not in a hands-on level.
As a witness to my own life, I can attest that you will learn things that school does not have the capacity to teach you. The 'class' will be on yourself. Life will be your teacher for once.
In the past year I have learned more about myself then I have growning up during all my teen years. I have seperated it into three concrete and seperate parts all dealing with location. Because location has actually had a tremendous influence on my learning process.
1- Tofino
-Learned who I was
To a certain degree. But I figured out both good and bad things about myself. What I should change about myself and what I should grow and continue to do. I would say this was sort of like a 'comming of age' because I was not influenced by anything really other then myself. I was away from the media and submerged into nature. I could breathe again and because I wasn't distracted I had time to analyse myself and realise things and patterns about my personality.
2- Dublin
-Learned who 'They' were
This part had nothing to do with me at all. It was strictly about the 'others'. I was learning about a culture and people with whom I was becoming apart of. I was watching and learning. Adapting to a new lifestyle and figuring out how another society works and functions.
3- Europe
-Taking a course in Cultural history
Not that I chose to. But boy am I learning loads. For once, I am surely the outsider. Communicating in foreign languages and quickly adapting to their systems only to be replaced in another foregin situation. Truly thrilling.
You can't learn any of this in school, atleast not in a hands-on level.
Fate
Funny how Fate makes her mark. She makes herself known. And won't allow herself to be forgotten. No matter how hard you try to run away from her, she'll make sure she's there to stop you and make you go on with her plan.
I came to Berlin by fluke. My Opa really wanted me to go. I didn't really care for the city (now I do) and was being a bit of an absentminded teenager. Well, that was one plan altered and for some strange reason I hadn't planned on being in Berlin long enough. Because on Saturday the instateller ate my debit card. Luckily, I had pulled out a hundred euros to survive just before hand. So, I now spend more time in Berlin until the bank opens again. I'm not calling the shots here! But I do not mind at all. Because folks, Berlin is a city with a lot of history (duh) and therefore loads to see. And now I can leave after really appreciating and understanding this contraversial and influential city. the end.
ps. Thank you Fate
I came to Berlin by fluke. My Opa really wanted me to go. I didn't really care for the city (now I do) and was being a bit of an absentminded teenager. Well, that was one plan altered and for some strange reason I hadn't planned on being in Berlin long enough. Because on Saturday the instateller ate my debit card. Luckily, I had pulled out a hundred euros to survive just before hand. So, I now spend more time in Berlin until the bank opens again. I'm not calling the shots here! But I do not mind at all. Because folks, Berlin is a city with a lot of history (duh) and therefore loads to see. And now I can leave after really appreciating and understanding this contraversial and influential city. the end.
ps. Thank you Fate
Tuscany
I am so dissapointed because I wrote a tale on Tuscany. It was a beautiful and picturesque story about my days in Tuscany. For some reason she chose not to inscript herself into the blog. And vanished.
Now I just dont feel like repeating myself. So this part of the journey will be a little less known and a little more mysterious. But I can tell you that my body is painted with freckles and I swam everyday. My aunt owns a real nice country villa and I babysat my adorable cousins, all 4 of 'em. I even changed a diaper (while the kid chose to stay standing- v difficult procedure) , and nearly fainted.
But the highlight of all this country and rolling hills talk was when my two Aunts brought me to the Opera. It was La Boheme by Puccini. Although it was in Italian I was completely mesmerized. The event was outdoors and super classy. Italians are very extravagent dressers.
Now I just dont feel like repeating myself. So this part of the journey will be a little less known and a little more mysterious. But I can tell you that my body is painted with freckles and I swam everyday. My aunt owns a real nice country villa and I babysat my adorable cousins, all 4 of 'em. I even changed a diaper (while the kid chose to stay standing- v difficult procedure) , and nearly fainted.
But the highlight of all this country and rolling hills talk was when my two Aunts brought me to the Opera. It was La Boheme by Puccini. Although it was in Italian I was completely mesmerized. The event was outdoors and super classy. Italians are very extravagent dressers.
Friday, July 24, 2009
so you missed your plain, eh?
I spent a few hours in Milano and hated it. I dont care if its the fashion city mecca or not. To me its an industrial and ugly city. I call it Shitilano. The only good thing about that city is the really good looking boys.
And then I missed my plain. Whatevs. So I chilled in the airport forever until I could catch a flight to Berlin instead of Hamburg.
And then I missed my plain. Whatevs. So I chilled in the airport forever until I could catch a flight to Berlin instead of Hamburg.
I have loads to say but so little time
...and these keyboards are so confusing.
K folks Ive been in Tuscany. And I will elaborate in the very near future.
But cooler then that is I missed my flight to Hamburg. I woke up at 4:45 am and still missed it. The metro and bus were late. I forgive them.
You see, I believe in a little theory called Fate. I booked my flight to Hamburg and then my credit card cancelled the purchase. So then again I bought a ticket and then missed the flight. I wasnt suppossed to be in Hamburg,... yet. So I took the next flight to Germany which led me to Berlin. My Opa wanted me to go here and I need to realise where I come from and step up on my social-political knowledge. Its time to try and figure Germany out.
And the best part is, I didnt loose a dime. So it was meant to be. Im letting life call the shots and my history is writing herself down.
K folks Ive been in Tuscany. And I will elaborate in the very near future.
But cooler then that is I missed my flight to Hamburg. I woke up at 4:45 am and still missed it. The metro and bus were late. I forgive them.
You see, I believe in a little theory called Fate. I booked my flight to Hamburg and then my credit card cancelled the purchase. So then again I bought a ticket and then missed the flight. I wasnt suppossed to be in Hamburg,... yet. So I took the next flight to Germany which led me to Berlin. My Opa wanted me to go here and I need to realise where I come from and step up on my social-political knowledge. Its time to try and figure Germany out.
And the best part is, I didnt loose a dime. So it was meant to be. Im letting life call the shots and my history is writing herself down.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Now, I'm not saying I'm an art critic or anything...
Well Rome is a place of Art History, yes. But not contemporary works. Montreal is.
I went to the MACRO today, which is Romes' Contemporary Museum of Italian art. Boy, it wasn't that good. Only two pieces were kinda cool. I guess I'll just have to wait for the TATE Modern in London. The pieces were all Italian and all looked unfinished and like they had been done by second year college students. Nothing was meticulous and nothing was rendered. Fine, that's okey. But nothing was interesting either. They didn' push any bounderies.
However, I also went to two art galleris which were pretty darn intersting. The first one was way cool because it had works by artists exposed in Juxtapoz. So I saw original prints by Banksy (overated artist), Shepard Fairey (political OBEY artist), Supakitch and Audrey Kawasaki. The prints were all really cool but the one thing that sucked was how the weren't mounted properly. They weren' even flat! Art is practically sacred! Especially when it's good. And these are good works!
I want to be an Artist soooo bad. As soon as I get to Montreal I'm gonna submerge myself back into the scene.
I went to the MACRO today, which is Romes' Contemporary Museum of Italian art. Boy, it wasn't that good. Only two pieces were kinda cool. I guess I'll just have to wait for the TATE Modern in London. The pieces were all Italian and all looked unfinished and like they had been done by second year college students. Nothing was meticulous and nothing was rendered. Fine, that's okey. But nothing was interesting either. They didn' push any bounderies.
However, I also went to two art galleris which were pretty darn intersting. The first one was way cool because it had works by artists exposed in Juxtapoz. So I saw original prints by Banksy (overated artist), Shepard Fairey (political OBEY artist), Supakitch and Audrey Kawasaki. The prints were all really cool but the one thing that sucked was how the weren't mounted properly. They weren' even flat! Art is practically sacred! Especially when it's good. And these are good works!
I want to be an Artist soooo bad. As soon as I get to Montreal I'm gonna submerge myself back into the scene.
Vaticano and the Basilico
Today I went to Vatican City! It was cool enough of a city since it's walled and they have their own currency but the coolest part was the Basilico. My goodness what a cathedral. If you want to be practically mesmerized this is the place to knock your socks off. It's both glorious and beautiful. The Oratoire St. Joseph is nothing compared to this.
I climbed all the way to the top. It took forever and I was really dizzy from walking up the spiral stairs but in the end it was really rewarding. The view of Rome is phenomenal. Rome looks uptop just like it does in all the illustrated ancient Rome books I use to read back in the day as a kid.
The Basilico is huge and beautifuly ornated. The frescos are made with tiny pieces of ceramic, glass and gold paint. Thus, giving off an illuminated effect. The mosaics even showed degradation and shadowing. The paintings and statues were immense. I wonder how long the whole process of making this church was. I'll have to get back to you folks on that one. But I'm guessing, a really long time.
But the part that stunned me that most and humbled me was when I saw Michelangelos' Buonarroti (Saint Mary holding the decieved Christ). The statue is of a medium size but is encased in glass. I have never seen a more intricate and polished statue in my entire life. I now understand why it is one of the most famous pieces of art on our planet.
I also saw loads of monks and nuns, in case you were wondering...
I climbed all the way to the top. It took forever and I was really dizzy from walking up the spiral stairs but in the end it was really rewarding. The view of Rome is phenomenal. Rome looks uptop just like it does in all the illustrated ancient Rome books I use to read back in the day as a kid.
The Basilico is huge and beautifuly ornated. The frescos are made with tiny pieces of ceramic, glass and gold paint. Thus, giving off an illuminated effect. The mosaics even showed degradation and shadowing. The paintings and statues were immense. I wonder how long the whole process of making this church was. I'll have to get back to you folks on that one. But I'm guessing, a really long time.
But the part that stunned me that most and humbled me was when I saw Michelangelos' Buonarroti (Saint Mary holding the decieved Christ). The statue is of a medium size but is encased in glass. I have never seen a more intricate and polished statue in my entire life. I now understand why it is one of the most famous pieces of art on our planet.
I also saw loads of monks and nuns, in case you were wondering...
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Hiroshige
I don't like the food in Italy.
Today I went to see an exposition on the world famous Japanese print artist, Hiroshige. It totalled to 200 of his works. They were so small but beautiful. I would like to try this technic.
They were prints created with watercolors placed ontop of a carved cherry blossom block. He depticted mostly nature and Japanese culture. I think he was an enthusiast of his country. He really makes Japan seem like a beautiful place. I forgot that it snowed in Japan! I prefered his prints with less color, even though he is known for his fluid ways with ink.
Today I went to see an exposition on the world famous Japanese print artist, Hiroshige. It totalled to 200 of his works. They were so small but beautiful. I would like to try this technic.
They were prints created with watercolors placed ontop of a carved cherry blossom block. He depticted mostly nature and Japanese culture. I think he was an enthusiast of his country. He really makes Japan seem like a beautiful place. I forgot that it snowed in Japan! I prefered his prints with less color, even though he is known for his fluid ways with ink.
traveling solo
I really like traveling solo. I know that a lot of people wouldn't even think about the idea but a true adventurer wouldn't mind. I'm here and i'm doing my thing. I can do watever I want, whenever I want. Not being selfish at all but honeslty there are no bounderies to what I do and see. And while being solo I can just make up my plan as I go. I happen to be on the no-plan-plan. But one interesting thing is that I keep bumping into kids from previous hostels, from Montreal, from Dublin and from SWAP. So it's pretty cool that life keeps bringing me suprises. I'll have to thank her sometime soon...
A Dash of Ruins
Today I went into the Coluseum. The structure is amazing and once you enter the building you can really imagine what went on in the ampitheatre once upon a time. It has survived centuries and countless earthquakes that would of demolished our North American buildings. The grandios building is breathtaking to say the least. But I think the best was to describe it across the pond would be by photography.
I have also seen the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps.
The Pantheon is just big. Theres a cool dome inside of it though. The Spanish Steps are warmed by the sun and because they are so polished are really comfortable to sit on. The Trevi Fountain is gorgeous. It's like a ginormous beautiful bath filled with light aqua water and adorned with multiple statues and mini-pools.
One interesting thing about the Roman fountains is that all the water is drinkable. Literally, you can just fill up your water bottle in the fountains.
I have also seen the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps.
The Pantheon is just big. Theres a cool dome inside of it though. The Spanish Steps are warmed by the sun and because they are so polished are really comfortable to sit on. The Trevi Fountain is gorgeous. It's like a ginormous beautiful bath filled with light aqua water and adorned with multiple statues and mini-pools.
One interesting thing about the Roman fountains is that all the water is drinkable. Literally, you can just fill up your water bottle in the fountains.
welcome to the strangers
On my first day in Rome I got lost and hopped into a car with a 45 year old Egyptian man.
Normally I wouldn't do this. But I was feeling extremely adventerous and the intense heat probably degraded my conscious side. I felt that he was safe. He was nice. I did't get attacked. He owned a garden shop, my dad loves gardening. So I gave it a thunbs up and hopped in to the car. And then arrived safely in the hostel. the end
During the day I witnessed this artist making paintings out of spray paint. It was definately performance art to say the least. He knew he had a crowd and thus he painted with vigility and almost anger. He was pretty cool and boy did he know how to spray paint! The paintings ended up looking highly polished. I bought one for my brother.
And that evening I ended chatting it up with a homeless man. He was pretty cool. And he was chilling with his two bunny rabbits.
Normally I wouldn't do this. But I was feeling extremely adventerous and the intense heat probably degraded my conscious side. I felt that he was safe. He was nice. I did't get attacked. He owned a garden shop, my dad loves gardening. So I gave it a thunbs up and hopped in to the car. And then arrived safely in the hostel. the end
During the day I witnessed this artist making paintings out of spray paint. It was definately performance art to say the least. He knew he had a crowd and thus he painted with vigility and almost anger. He was pretty cool and boy did he know how to spray paint! The paintings ended up looking highly polished. I bought one for my brother.
And that evening I ended chatting it up with a homeless man. He was pretty cool. And he was chilling with his two bunny rabbits.
Bonjourno Roma
Well right now I am in Rome and I have to say that this is a pretty cool city. I actually prefer it to Lisbon. Rome is a city that is highly entertaining in the fact that it's a city filled with ruins. And boy are they massive! They ancient buildings are magnificient not only in their structure and in their detail but also their incomparable size. I can hardly imagine how long it took to make the sculptures and to erect all the buildings. I now understand how Rome was a super power. They knew exactly what they were doing. They must have been excellent architects.
One thing about Europe is that the people here made things to last a lifetime. They made their mark by a legacy in which they created unephemeral products to mark their place in history. This is one thing that I really appreciate. In North America its cheap'n'quick. I can notice that people in Europe took time and effort to make things beautiful. And because of this, the city is bathing in architectal and art history.
One thing about Europe is that the people here made things to last a lifetime. They made their mark by a legacy in which they created unephemeral products to mark their place in history. This is one thing that I really appreciate. In North America its cheap'n'quick. I can notice that people in Europe took time and effort to make things beautiful. And because of this, the city is bathing in architectal and art history.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Lagos is where it's at
Well Portugal is coming to it's end. Already a week gone by. Boy, does time fly!
So the last two days I have been spending in Lagos, which to me is pretty near to the ideal summer spot. I would say it's Portugals' Tofino. Lagos is in the south of Portugal. If you go any more south you hit Morrocco.
I took a bus to Lagos from Lisbon. It was so beautiful and the scenary felt like it belonged in Africa. I saw skinny brown cows grazing in the grass, except the grass wasn't green? Maybe thats why they were so skinny.
In Laos I went on a dolphin excursion in the channel of Atlantic water between Portugal and Morroco. It sounds so cheesy but I really wanted to see them and I haven't ever seen dolphins up close in the wild before. I was so excited when they came to the boat. I wanted to jump off the boat so badly. They were common dolphins with white bellies. They probably were probably between 5 and 6 feet long. They would follow the boat and surf the waves. They were jumping and having a good time. I think they know that they are liked and then they get really excited to see humans.
Lagos is hot. It was 30 degrees when I was venturing but the locals told me it normally should of been between 40 and 45 dgrees celcius. Suprisingly, the water isn't that warm.
Then today I went on a kayak trek which was also fun. I went through some caves and explored a lot of the south of Portugal gravitating towards the Atlantic ocean. There are so many interesting rock formations and caves. The coast is an accumulaiotn of pourous cliffs. They are tan and the layers of formation are more than evident. We also saw some ancient ruins from three hundred years past of a temple that fell because of an earthquake.
After that I hit the beach with some friends I made. I have decided that my body looks like uncooked white chicken with a burnt Malta meatball for a head. And now, I load on the SPF.
Well, next stop: Rome
So the last two days I have been spending in Lagos, which to me is pretty near to the ideal summer spot. I would say it's Portugals' Tofino. Lagos is in the south of Portugal. If you go any more south you hit Morrocco.
I took a bus to Lagos from Lisbon. It was so beautiful and the scenary felt like it belonged in Africa. I saw skinny brown cows grazing in the grass, except the grass wasn't green? Maybe thats why they were so skinny.
In Laos I went on a dolphin excursion in the channel of Atlantic water between Portugal and Morroco. It sounds so cheesy but I really wanted to see them and I haven't ever seen dolphins up close in the wild before. I was so excited when they came to the boat. I wanted to jump off the boat so badly. They were common dolphins with white bellies. They probably were probably between 5 and 6 feet long. They would follow the boat and surf the waves. They were jumping and having a good time. I think they know that they are liked and then they get really excited to see humans.
Lagos is hot. It was 30 degrees when I was venturing but the locals told me it normally should of been between 40 and 45 dgrees celcius. Suprisingly, the water isn't that warm.
Then today I went on a kayak trek which was also fun. I went through some caves and explored a lot of the south of Portugal gravitating towards the Atlantic ocean. There are so many interesting rock formations and caves. The coast is an accumulaiotn of pourous cliffs. They are tan and the layers of formation are more than evident. We also saw some ancient ruins from three hundred years past of a temple that fell because of an earthquake.
After that I hit the beach with some friends I made. I have decided that my body looks like uncooked white chicken with a burnt Malta meatball for a head. And now, I load on the SPF.
Well, next stop: Rome
Friday, July 10, 2009
SURFING in Portugal
Today I woke up bright and early and I hopped onto a Moped and drove to the nearest town to pick up some cash ( our town is so . Actually, I was just sitting in the moped behind some guy from the hostel. But it was my first time and it was really fun. We were wizzing down the highway. I wanted to drive but you need a drivers' permit.
After that I headed to the beach and had an amazing surf. Absolutely wicked. The waves were great and of a light turquoise color. I caught some 'greens' and even glided my thingers through the waves. I was on such an adrenaline high. And I was so happy that I was singing in the waves. Making up my own lyrics to songs I only know of the melody...
Then I relaxed in the sand dunes. And got burnt. Disgusting creature I am for not pounding on the SPF. I didn't even think about it. The Portuguese sun is waaay stronger then the Canadian sun, I'll tell you that. The owner of the hostel has been taking care of me with his giant aloe vera plant. My skin is the same color as my lips.
This is the sickest hostel I've ever been in. It's so cool. It's kinda like a house ontop of a hill overlooking the Atlantic ocean.
After that I headed to the beach and had an amazing surf. Absolutely wicked. The waves were great and of a light turquoise color. I caught some 'greens' and even glided my thingers through the waves. I was on such an adrenaline high. And I was so happy that I was singing in the waves. Making up my own lyrics to songs I only know of the melody...
Then I relaxed in the sand dunes. And got burnt. Disgusting creature I am for not pounding on the SPF. I didn't even think about it. The Portuguese sun is waaay stronger then the Canadian sun, I'll tell you that. The owner of the hostel has been taking care of me with his giant aloe vera plant. My skin is the same color as my lips.
This is the sickest hostel I've ever been in. It's so cool. It's kinda like a house ontop of a hill overlooking the Atlantic ocean.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
SURFING in Portugal!
Yup today was a good day. I'm in the countryside beside the best surfing beach of Portugal. I really like this.
So I changed hostels and towns and am getting way more used to this traveling-solo-in-a-foreign-country thing.
So today I went surfing. The water is light and warm but you still need a wetsuit. But it was sooooooooo windy. To the death of me! This ain't no Tofino, folks. No beach break. Just huge waves crashing. Never a break and no sets. I was on a 6.8 almost-funboard and I only caught about five green waves.
However due to the wind... the kite surfers and wind surfers were having a blast. They are so cool. I was mesmerized while watching them do flips ontop of the waves. They really get a lot of air!
I don't look anything like I normally do. No make-up and I've stopped brushing my hair all together. I'm looking more and more like my position as homeless. haha! But people here in Portugal are way less image contious and I really appreciate this of the people. Everyone is just so relaxed.
So I changed hostels and towns and am getting way more used to this traveling-solo-in-a-foreign-country thing.
So today I went surfing. The water is light and warm but you still need a wetsuit. But it was sooooooooo windy. To the death of me! This ain't no Tofino, folks. No beach break. Just huge waves crashing. Never a break and no sets. I was on a 6.8 almost-funboard and I only caught about five green waves.
However due to the wind... the kite surfers and wind surfers were having a blast. They are so cool. I was mesmerized while watching them do flips ontop of the waves. They really get a lot of air!
I don't look anything like I normally do. No make-up and I've stopped brushing my hair all together. I'm looking more and more like my position as homeless. haha! But people here in Portugal are way less image contious and I really appreciate this of the people. Everyone is just so relaxed.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Portugal
This morning started bright (not literally) and early. I woke up at 2:30 am and was out by 3:00 am. I was a bit on a mental high while walking through the shady streets at that time of night with all my luggage. The last drunks were hopping into taxis and my adventure was yet to begin. I was waiting at the bus stop when a taxi dude came up to a bunch of us and offered a ride to the airport for the same price. We submitted.
I was the first to arrive for my flight. I forget how here international flights aren't as international since were in the same continent.
Upon arrival into Lisbon the heat was the first thing that woke me up. A whole whopping 31 degrees celsius. I guess summer never hit Ireland.
Lisbon is beautiful but weird. I have never ever been in a city like this before. Obviousely and duh. The streets are made up of tiny white squares of rock that make up something of a mosaic. The whole city is of cream tones and is on slant. You either are walking straight up a street or sliding down another. It's almost as if the city is placed on tiny little mountains.
Right away I figured the city wasn't right for me. I needed the country, I needed the beach. I needed color. So I peaced off and took a train to Cascais. Cascais is paradise. A beautiful seaside town full of beachbums. Everyone looks like toast. I've never seen so many grannies in string bikinies in my life (or in just the bottems). The water isn't as hot as you'd think but the air is boiling. Except, I forgot my bathing suit. So tommorrow I'm gonna try and go for a surf.
Needless to say during this day a weiner dog tried to mull me and some old guy was trying to sell me weed buds.
And to conclude, it is so hard to speak over here! I don't know anything in Portuguese. And vice versa.
I was the first to arrive for my flight. I forget how here international flights aren't as international since were in the same continent.
Upon arrival into Lisbon the heat was the first thing that woke me up. A whole whopping 31 degrees celsius. I guess summer never hit Ireland.
Lisbon is beautiful but weird. I have never ever been in a city like this before. Obviousely and duh. The streets are made up of tiny white squares of rock that make up something of a mosaic. The whole city is of cream tones and is on slant. You either are walking straight up a street or sliding down another. It's almost as if the city is placed on tiny little mountains.
Right away I figured the city wasn't right for me. I needed the country, I needed the beach. I needed color. So I peaced off and took a train to Cascais. Cascais is paradise. A beautiful seaside town full of beachbums. Everyone looks like toast. I've never seen so many grannies in string bikinies in my life (or in just the bottems). The water isn't as hot as you'd think but the air is boiling. Except, I forgot my bathing suit. So tommorrow I'm gonna try and go for a surf.
Needless to say during this day a weiner dog tried to mull me and some old guy was trying to sell me weed buds.
And to conclude, it is so hard to speak over here! I don't know anything in Portuguese. And vice versa.
to finish up
After all the shannanigans my life went back to half normal. I had been living with Chara (new flat) and Stephanie. And as fate would tell her story.... Chara inherited my job. No joke. It was pure destiny. So she's staying atleast a little longer and working at the organic resto nestled in the heart of my beloved Phoenix Park. I continued on my life and trained her how to make a killer latte. We would walk all the way to work because we were that much closer. Then I had two days off and I said my goodbyes and peaced off. I was really sad about leaving because I am really gonna miss everybody and quite frankly I'm a bit nervous about this traveling thing. Especially since I have NO PLAN! So... behold, the next month is a non-plan-plan adventure.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Electrified
It has now been two days since we have been evicted. The first night we were evicted I slept in our appartment anyways. With no bedsheets or anything. Just the empty appartment. Chris did the same in his own room. It just sucked to have the bomb dropped upon you and then be evicted from your home the day off. Human rights just aren't as strong over here.
Last night I slept over at Teresas'. She kindy took me into her home and happens to live on the same street. However my continous disrupting of a normal life was not in short order. Everytime things settle down in Ireland and you feel at peace, something drastic brings you back into perspective and out of ease. This time is was through lightning.
There was a major storm on Canada Day evening here in Ireland. At about three in the morning Theresa and I were woken up by the sounds of 'a crashing airplane'. This is honestly what we thought. The sound was horrible. We were screaming and holding onto eachother. Rain was crashing down in Dublin. And lightning and thunder was on the prowl. Just right underneath the bedroom window in which I was sleeping next too, a lightning bolt penetrated into the wiring system. The building was constantly being struck by lightning because of the phone wires hugging the faced of the building. The alarms were going off like mad.
It was not safe to go outside at all. I called into work at 5 am stating that in no way was I going to walk an hour through the storm through an open park filled with telphone poles and trees. It was not safe. Phoenix Park is now flouded and some building in Dublin have recieved serious damage due to the storm. This is now my cue: leave Dublin. I'll be back in August. But my time here for now is done.
I really, really like Dublin but the time I was suppossed to spend here has expired.
Last night I slept over at Teresas'. She kindy took me into her home and happens to live on the same street. However my continous disrupting of a normal life was not in short order. Everytime things settle down in Ireland and you feel at peace, something drastic brings you back into perspective and out of ease. This time is was through lightning.
There was a major storm on Canada Day evening here in Ireland. At about three in the morning Theresa and I were woken up by the sounds of 'a crashing airplane'. This is honestly what we thought. The sound was horrible. We were screaming and holding onto eachother. Rain was crashing down in Dublin. And lightning and thunder was on the prowl. Just right underneath the bedroom window in which I was sleeping next too, a lightning bolt penetrated into the wiring system. The building was constantly being struck by lightning because of the phone wires hugging the faced of the building. The alarms were going off like mad.
It was not safe to go outside at all. I called into work at 5 am stating that in no way was I going to walk an hour through the storm through an open park filled with telphone poles and trees. It was not safe. Phoenix Park is now flouded and some building in Dublin have recieved serious damage due to the storm. This is now my cue: leave Dublin. I'll be back in August. But my time here for now is done.
I really, really like Dublin but the time I was suppossed to spend here has expired.
Newgrange
On the same day we were evicted, Chara and I were already going on a tour to the Hill of Tara and Newgrange.
Hill of Tara really isn't much. Basically a hill giving a great view. The hill is covered with sheep that chill next to you and also happens to be the ancient ruling area of the Celts. But now it isn't much.
Newgrange however is way cool. It is a UNESCO World Heritage sight and predates the Pyramids and Stone Henge. It dates back to the Neolithic period. Newgrange is still a mystery but because it has been so well conserved, it is believed to have been an ancient buriel sight as well as a base for early astronomy. The huge rock and grass mound-stucture works directly with the eclipse of the summer and winter soltice letting the sun penetrate for a few minutes a year into the human made cave. The large earth dome is also covered with ancient art inside and out in the form of engravings.
When I was inside of it, it felt very magical and unreal. Being made in the BC era, one can only imagine what has happened in Newgrange thorugh all these thousands of years. I really want to get to the bottem of this enigma but nobody has all the answers.
Hill of Tara really isn't much. Basically a hill giving a great view. The hill is covered with sheep that chill next to you and also happens to be the ancient ruling area of the Celts. But now it isn't much.
Newgrange however is way cool. It is a UNESCO World Heritage sight and predates the Pyramids and Stone Henge. It dates back to the Neolithic period. Newgrange is still a mystery but because it has been so well conserved, it is believed to have been an ancient buriel sight as well as a base for early astronomy. The huge rock and grass mound-stucture works directly with the eclipse of the summer and winter soltice letting the sun penetrate for a few minutes a year into the human made cave. The large earth dome is also covered with ancient art inside and out in the form of engravings.
When I was inside of it, it felt very magical and unreal. Being made in the BC era, one can only imagine what has happened in Newgrange thorugh all these thousands of years. I really want to get to the bottem of this enigma but nobody has all the answers.
Sudden Change
Life was perfect in this saga till on my day off Chara and I bumped into our Landloard. He told us to get out of the Appartment ASAP. It's a very long story but in the end: I am homeless. Chara has a new flat. Heeun and Chris are bumping at friends places. (I'm doing the same)
It's just such a long story that I don't even wan't to remember it. He is an aweful and untrustworthy man. In the end we have all learned something very important: sign contracts.
We were all evicted in 22 hours.
I am very tired right now and not having my own flat really sucks. I feel like I have already started my traveling journey. A week too early. I like it when I am established. Now I am just lost. But I'm fine at the same time because I have good friends taking care of me.
It's just such a long story that I don't even wan't to remember it. He is an aweful and untrustworthy man. In the end we have all learned something very important: sign contracts.
We were all evicted in 22 hours.
I am very tired right now and not having my own flat really sucks. I feel like I have already started my traveling journey. A week too early. I like it when I am established. Now I am just lost. But I'm fine at the same time because I have good friends taking care of me.
bits and pieces of a daily life
I keep forgetting what has happened over the last two weeks. It's fun and then slips my memory.
I know for one thing, I was hanging with my pals (Linda, Theresa and Chris) and then by fluke managed to get tickets to the premiere of the film Bruno. Which is hilarious and not recommened to be watched with the faint at heart. We were front row and laughed louder then the whole auditorium. It was just sooooooooooooo funny. There where some Irish celebrities there too but I had no clue who they were.
I have been hanging out with friends and doing things. But I honestly can't remember.
A week ago, Chara and I bumped into and artist in Temple Bar. He's a street artist and I ended up purchasing two of his works. They weren't pricy and depict seagulls in a Low-Brow formality. Very Juxtapoz. Dublin is FULL of Seagulls.
And a few days ago we had a flatmate night that we planned. Chris, Heeeun, Chara and I went to Govinda's (the Indian Veg resto). Chara and I wanted them to try something new. They really liked it. We bought two huge plates of food and splited them. After we were walking through Temple Bar to go to a pub before heading home when I bumped into my former manager from the Button Factory. He let us into that nights show for free. It was sooooo good. It was jazz night. I haven't heard that good live jazz music ever! The lead singer was very sassy and down to earth but her voiced ressonated sultry meloncholic lyrics. The Button Factory is a very cool place to be.
I know for one thing, I was hanging with my pals (Linda, Theresa and Chris) and then by fluke managed to get tickets to the premiere of the film Bruno. Which is hilarious and not recommened to be watched with the faint at heart. We were front row and laughed louder then the whole auditorium. It was just sooooooooooooo funny. There where some Irish celebrities there too but I had no clue who they were.
I have been hanging out with friends and doing things. But I honestly can't remember.
A week ago, Chara and I bumped into and artist in Temple Bar. He's a street artist and I ended up purchasing two of his works. They weren't pricy and depict seagulls in a Low-Brow formality. Very Juxtapoz. Dublin is FULL of Seagulls.
And a few days ago we had a flatmate night that we planned. Chris, Heeeun, Chara and I went to Govinda's (the Indian Veg resto). Chara and I wanted them to try something new. They really liked it. We bought two huge plates of food and splited them. After we were walking through Temple Bar to go to a pub before heading home when I bumped into my former manager from the Button Factory. He let us into that nights show for free. It was sooooo good. It was jazz night. I haven't heard that good live jazz music ever! The lead singer was very sassy and down to earth but her voiced ressonated sultry meloncholic lyrics. The Button Factory is a very cool place to be.
The Aran Islands
I have been up to a lot lately and therefore have never been online. A few weeks ago my mind was getting really restless. I needed change, I needed to get outta Dublin. Thats just me. I was a little stir crazy but only a little. So Chara and I peaced across to western Ireland to the city of Galway. It was my second time there.
Galway is a small hippie city full of hippie students and artists. Therefore, I like it. Imagine a bigger Tofino.
But the highlight about the trip wasn't Galway, it was Inishmore, the largest Island of the Aran Islands (there are three in total). These Gaelic Islands are submerged in the Atlantic ocean and are thus only attainable by an hour long ferry ride.
I think I have found where my heart belongs. The hottest day of the year that I have spent in Ireland was spent here. It was practically scorching even with the Atlantic breeze. Chara and I rented bikes and basically biked around the Island. Gazing at tiny little cottages and small rural towns that hug the coastline. We saw a few cows, and donkeys and horses. As well as some art. Life is relaxed over there. I was in awe and bliss. We went to a beach and stripped down to our underwear and played in a small beached bay. I was so glad to be back in the ocean. The hot sand was white and the water was clear. Surfing is only threatening my longing even more.
I have this romantic idea that one day (in a few years) I will go back to Inishmore and spend July and August renting a little cottage over there. I'll try and learn some Gaelic and swim and bike. Read a lot and most importantly focus on art. I will be relaxed, unoccupied with work and undistracted. Therefore able to give my heart back to art. I will only be influenced by what surrounds me: nature and color.
Galway is a small hippie city full of hippie students and artists. Therefore, I like it. Imagine a bigger Tofino.
But the highlight about the trip wasn't Galway, it was Inishmore, the largest Island of the Aran Islands (there are three in total). These Gaelic Islands are submerged in the Atlantic ocean and are thus only attainable by an hour long ferry ride.
I think I have found where my heart belongs. The hottest day of the year that I have spent in Ireland was spent here. It was practically scorching even with the Atlantic breeze. Chara and I rented bikes and basically biked around the Island. Gazing at tiny little cottages and small rural towns that hug the coastline. We saw a few cows, and donkeys and horses. As well as some art. Life is relaxed over there. I was in awe and bliss. We went to a beach and stripped down to our underwear and played in a small beached bay. I was so glad to be back in the ocean. The hot sand was white and the water was clear. Surfing is only threatening my longing even more.
I have this romantic idea that one day (in a few years) I will go back to Inishmore and spend July and August renting a little cottage over there. I'll try and learn some Gaelic and swim and bike. Read a lot and most importantly focus on art. I will be relaxed, unoccupied with work and undistracted. Therefore able to give my heart back to art. I will only be influenced by what surrounds me: nature and color.
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