A Year of Self/World/Life Discovery

Friday, October 15, 2010

Greenescape

Japan has some of the most beautiful natural topography I have ever seen. Invigorating to my urbanized soul it was an experience I will always remember.


Tokyo

I've finally reached Asia where I will be spending the next 3 months of my gap-year journey. My Dad decided to meet me in Tokyo and bring me a little piece of home (and some much needed American supplies!). We are having a blast hitting the many historical sites in this city and even made an expedition to nearby Nikko - a mountain town that boasts shrines, temples, and beautiful scenery.


Ex-Pat

With a population 80% Ex-Pats (aka citizens of foreign countries) I kept forgetting that I was in strict Muslim country in the middle east. From the clubs to the restaurants to the poolside gatherings it was as if I was in a thriving western metropolis. The social scene consisted of those who work hard and play harder -  a mentality I pride myself on.

I had an amazing time thanks to Niki and James. Their friends - including my friend Peter's older bro - were a blast and I felt as if I lived there for years. Could I actually see myself becoming an Ex-Pat? Or do I have a bad case of the travel bug?

Planet UAE

Manmade Islands in the shape of a Palm Tree. An indoor ski slope in the middle of the desert. The tallest building in the world. Extravagant hotels that put vegas and it's "tiny" fountain shows to shame (on purpose). What planet am I on?! Dubai is like no other city in the world. As I experienced the fantasy land my friends called home, I couldn't help but feel like a kid in Disneyland. Overstimulated, Overbuilt, and Overboard is how I would describe this desert oasis.

Sir, have you used illegal substances? Wait, does Amsterdam count?

10 hour flight. 4:00am. Hour long search and interrogation at Dubai International airport. Welcome to the United Arab Emirates! Though dealing with airport security is part of traveling, I have never had the granules of sand in the bottom of my backpack tested for drugs. It was almost comical if I wasn't about to pass out from sleep deprivation...

That said, I finally arrived to the 5-star apartment of my awesome friends James King and Niki Beetham. I can't express to you the joy of American television and the simple comforts of home.

Post-Oktoberfest Syndrome

I returned to my European San Francisco, in a familiar Istanbul hostel where I had set up shop before my impromptu jaunt to Munich. At my new home away from home - whilst listening to the "soothing" sounds of Muslim prayer broadcasts - I found the tranquility I needed to rectify my Oktoberfest hangover and reminisce on good times past.

Istanbul

A seaside city full of cobblestone streets, hills of parks, mosques, and cafe's. The European mentality of social enjoyment through food, music, and conversation is found in every corner. The Turks boast a high quality of life especially as the "2010 European Capital of Culture."