2014, it's become a common theme that I travel and have a great time but then become too tired to document it in a diary/blog. I've had the most amazing/tiring first day in Taipei, I do not really want to leave. Lucky I am not leaving anytime soon. But main question: How important is it to document travels?
Interesting people I met and had conversations with today:
11pm -7am: Dr Chen the Dentist: I was seated in 7A, the seat right next to the emergency exit on the flight from Brisbane to Taipei. Thanks to Nick Chang, who I didn't know worked at the airport who changed my seat 3 times and got me to the awesomest seat ever. We were the first 2 people to get out of the plan after the business class passengers. Dr Chen frequently travels between Brisbane, NZ and Taipei so knows the ins and outs of his seat (7B) very well. He even knows quite well the ins and outs of the seat equivalent on the Eva Air jets.
Bob Witworth: Met him on the transfer bus. He's from Gympie of all places! And donated some pine planks to Woodford last year. He was teaching me how to spot hoop pine in the Taiwanese landscape. Hoop pines are native to Australia but thrive surprisingly well in Taiwan.
8am:'Annoying "Egg" Man from the States': An egg is someone who is Caucasian but only likes and targets Asian females mostly in a creepy way. If it is merely an informed personal preference, fair enough. But if it is a fettish derived from ignorance, then that is gross. This man singled me out this morning and asked me:
"Why do you speak English? None of the other people here do, they only speak Mandarin."
Me: "Well, it is their country, not ours."
Howard Huang (East Tone Mobile Attendant): Very helpful and gave me insights on how the service industry in Taiwan are used in many case studies in international service training programs as exemplars of what to do.
Receptionists at Hostel: Haha, they are all so hilarious. One of them gave me lots of good tips about not getting gipped by local employers, she's a graphic designer too. And the whole gaggle of them (about 6 of them) started giving me tips about house searching and hot guy searching. They are helpfully hilarious.
Kai: Shop Assistant at "Rice Revolution" who was giving me samples if fruit vinegar so that I could decide on which one I wanted. He studies Production Studies and is quite an all rounder explorer of the universe. He's invited me along on a Matsu Agricultural Blessing Pilgrammage next weekend! Apparently we have to walk for 35 hours straight! Very much looking forward to it. We've got each other on Facebook now!
Robin Winkler: www.winklerpartners.com. <--- Read that and it is only the beginning. We only had a brief exchange at 'Rice Revolution' when he gave me his card but he seems like a really cool soul.
Monday, 17 March 2014
Saturday, 15 March 2014
Periodicals: Being a Modern Female
I've noticed that my period doesn't really come in regular cycles as it is supposed to. So how do I know when I'm going to get my period? Every time I do something extreme. Especially in situations where periods are the last thing you need. For the past few months, I've had my period when I was doing bare cliff face rock climbing on two separate occasions and once when I was travelling alone in freezing Europe (Munich) with a migraine lugging my luggage around in the dark streets trying to look for my hotel which doesn't operate its reception on a Sunday (holy day). And now I'm about to move to a new country by myself, I fly out today AND I just got my period. Great, fun times ahead.
I openly talk about when I have my period. Not because I like to gross people out. Some males I know have commented on the fact that it's "over sharing". Heck, I've merely stated that I have it, I haven't even gone into any graphic detail yet.
Why do I state it? Because it's normal. It's a normal part of being a female. And I see it as a courtesy to tell others I have my period so that in case I say anything offensive, they know not to take it personally.
Control your "period mood" you might say? Men, when you get hit in the balls, it hurts like hell and you feel nauseous for perhaps a few minutes or more, it should not last longer for one eighth of the day. If it does, it's probably not a mere hit in the balls then, in that case, please do go to the doctor and look after yourself! For women, periods last longer than 24 hours, on average it can range from anytime between 3 days - 8days. And it is 'constant' pain throughout the day. Not to mention the paranoia of blood stains on our pants or skirts. On top of that, the hormones really kick in. For the most part, most of us really aren't moody or aggro, we only are when the hormones kick it, we can't control that.
So in our modern society, for women to be on par with men, we need to work equally as hard if not twice. And for some females, depending on their circumstances also need to maintain "traditional roles" of a woman, running a household whilst working. It's hard enough doing either or, let alone both. And on top of that, we get our period. Random abdominal pain (sometimes in other areas too) on top of needing to juggle many things. No wonder we get a bit moody sometimes. It can be stressful, and it can effect our moods, being moody is not our choice, at least it is not mine.
So, that is why if the need arises, I do openly talk about the fact that I have my period. It's only natural and I just want people to understand that it can be straining on us, so please understand. I hope this at least gives some insight into females and our need for a little support during that critical time of the month. Thank you in advance for being considerate :)
Alright, got to finish packing, chat later!
I openly talk about when I have my period. Not because I like to gross people out. Some males I know have commented on the fact that it's "over sharing". Heck, I've merely stated that I have it, I haven't even gone into any graphic detail yet.
Why do I state it? Because it's normal. It's a normal part of being a female. And I see it as a courtesy to tell others I have my period so that in case I say anything offensive, they know not to take it personally.
Control your "period mood" you might say? Men, when you get hit in the balls, it hurts like hell and you feel nauseous for perhaps a few minutes or more, it should not last longer for one eighth of the day. If it does, it's probably not a mere hit in the balls then, in that case, please do go to the doctor and look after yourself! For women, periods last longer than 24 hours, on average it can range from anytime between 3 days - 8days. And it is 'constant' pain throughout the day. Not to mention the paranoia of blood stains on our pants or skirts. On top of that, the hormones really kick in. For the most part, most of us really aren't moody or aggro, we only are when the hormones kick it, we can't control that.
So in our modern society, for women to be on par with men, we need to work equally as hard if not twice. And for some females, depending on their circumstances also need to maintain "traditional roles" of a woman, running a household whilst working. It's hard enough doing either or, let alone both. And on top of that, we get our period. Random abdominal pain (sometimes in other areas too) on top of needing to juggle many things. No wonder we get a bit moody sometimes. It can be stressful, and it can effect our moods, being moody is not our choice, at least it is not mine.
So, that is why if the need arises, I do openly talk about the fact that I have my period. It's only natural and I just want people to understand that it can be straining on us, so please understand. I hope this at least gives some insight into females and our need for a little support during that critical time of the month. Thank you in advance for being considerate :)
Alright, got to finish packing, chat later!
Wednesday, 12 March 2014
Tips for Solo Women Travellers
Solo traveller Leyla Giray, creator of the website Womenontheroad.com, gives her tips for solo women travellers:
1. First don't worry and don't be afraid. Women often fear travelling on their own, mostly because they wonder if they'll be able to cope if something happens. Of course you will! What would you do differently if you were travelling with that work colleague or loved one? These days with such easy phone and internet access to home, you'll be almost as close as if you were with them.
2. Another fear is loneliness. Frankly, I had the opposite experience - could never find enough time alone. It's easy to meet people on the road, other travellers as well as local people. A woman alone elicits all sorts of responses, and many of them involve invitations you'd never get if you were part of a couple or a group, like a traditional Balinese wedding I once attended.
3. You'll meet people everywhere. If you backpack, you'll find fellow backpackers in hostels along the way. You'll almost always find people to share a meal or a bus ride with. If you go off the beaten path, it's often even easier because people will come up to you - lone women have a way of attracting attention. Just keep your head about you. If you're approached by a lone man, think twice about why. Best to stay close to the women - go to markets or to the river or well if you're in a rural area. In the city, stick to other travellers if you're lonely, at least until you get your bearings.
4. As for dining alone, yes, it can be daunting - but it doesn't have to be. If you're very shy and you'd rather starve than eat on your own, here are a few tips to make that experience less traumatic: bring something to read or to write, staying busy keeps your mind off your surroundings; eat early in the evening so you'll be surrounded by families rather than sideways glances from men; eat outside if there's a terrace, it tends to me more casual than the inside; read up on national food before you go so you won't be stumped by the menu; check out your eatery earlier in the day so you won't feel like you're in a completely strange place when you get there (and check the prices so you don't get a financial shock!); and finally, remember, you're actually not the centre of attention, no matter how much you think you are.
5. Do plenty of research before going: the more you know about a place, the better your experience will be.
6. Keep your wits about you: if something feels wrong, don't do it! Don't go to isolated places alone with a man you've just met (you wouldn't do that at home, would you?)
7. Keep your money safe and out of sight - I use a money belt, and keep enough money for the day in my pocket so I won't have to shuffle through large bills in full sight.
8. Keep in touch: have a 'check-in date' with friends or family every few days or every week (it can be as simple as dropping them an email to tell them you're fine and where you are).
9. Keep up with the news: don't get in a civil war or flood just because you thought listening to the news 'diluted' your solo travel experience!
10. Don't skimp on gear: if you're going on a long trip, get the very best you can afford. I paid a fortune for shoes (wore them all the way across Africa blister-free), a great backpack (for a while I had up to 25 kg in it because I was writing and carrying lots of research materials), underwear (dries easily, keeps its shape)...you get the picture.
11. Depending on where you're going, bring feminine hygiene stuff: you're not going to find pads, tampons and similar things everywhere - so check on travel forums to see what's on offer where you're going.
12. Learn some self-defence: let's be realistic, you probably won't use it. But as a solo woman on the road, it'll make you feel a lot better to know that you could defend yourself if you had to!
13. Don't take more than you need (and I promise you'll shed a lot of it along the way).
14. Don't try to see the entire world at once: cut back on the number of destinations, and get to know a few places in-depth (as a solo woman you have every chance of really getting to know a place).
15. And finally - don't let anyone talk you out of it if this is what you really want to do! Everyone will have a reason to do so: it's unsafe, you'll be lonely, it's not done, you'll ruin your career, you'll put your mother through hell (I did). Some people will be concerned about you, while others may just be jealous
Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/travel/traveller-tips/top-tips-for-women-travelling-solo-20101103-17dmi.html#ixzz2vrh7sPpL
Source: http://www.smh.com.au/travel/traveller-tips/top-tips-for-women-travelling-solo-20101103-17dmi.html
Road Trip Tips for Females
After Woodford, I've developed a liking for sleeping in cars and on couches. Basically the feeling of any abnormal sleeping surface or substrate interests my back. And I've also developed a yearning for going on a road trip all around Australia.
Although I have a few interviews and jobs lined up overseas at the moment, deep down inside I still have this yearning for a fruitful outback adventure. A few things I will need are a panel van/camper van. And I have been researching into roof top rails (for extra storage) and toileting options.
There's actually a lot to think about and plan. Although after Woodford, I've had to stop "planning ahead" as each time I've planned ahead, the natural flow of previous happenings have been disrupted, leaving me to finish certain experiences in a very abrupt manner when I do not necessarily want to. For now, I resolve that I will go abroad and finish my stint for 4-6 months, in the meantime I will plan this trip.
For now, I need to read up on outback survival tips, bush tucker and natural medicine.
Yes, I need to do this overseas stint anyway, because even though my heart is ready to go on this road trip right now, physically, I have no means just yet. So let's go book that Survival Course from Bush Lore Australia where I've won a 50% off voucher (yay! :D) and read up on stories about travelling females for some tips and insights on how to avoid, alleviate dangers. A lot of it seems like common sense, but they are things that can be blurred over as the fatigue and the heat take over:
Links:
http://www.news.com.au/travel/travel-advice/the-truth-about-travelling-alone-as-a-woman/story-e6frfqfr-1226729177996
I like this article as it is realistic about both the fun and dangers of travelling: rape, motor accidents.
I like this article as it is realistic about both the fun and dangers of travelling: rape, motor accidents.
Driving Safety:
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/australia/travel-tips-and-articles/77331
Stay well rested, have a spare tyre, remember to stop in towns and socialise with others - gives you some sanity.
Feeling Alone:
http://www.smh.com.au/travel/traveller-tips/top-tips-for-women-travelling-solo-20101103-17dmi.html
Being "alone" is not so much of an issue for me, admittedly rolled my eyes a little at the start of the article but later on she offers great advice. I've put them in a separate post to keep things cleaner:
http://non-fencesitter.blogspot.com.au/2014/03/tips-for-solo-women-travellers.html
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/australia/travel-tips-and-articles/77331
Stay well rested, have a spare tyre, remember to stop in towns and socialise with others - gives you some sanity.
Feeling Alone:
http://www.smh.com.au/travel/traveller-tips/top-tips-for-women-travelling-solo-20101103-17dmi.html
Being "alone" is not so much of an issue for me, admittedly rolled my eyes a little at the start of the article but later on she offers great advice. I've put them in a separate post to keep things cleaner:
http://non-fencesitter.blogspot.com.au/2014/03/tips-for-solo-women-travellers.html
Monday, 10 March 2014
Stanthorpe: Apple and Grape Festival
I was on the road again to Stanthorpe to help Lakshmi and Yasoda with the langos stall over Saturday and Sunday (8th & 9th March). Stanthorpe being on the border of Queensland and New South Wales is a lot colder than Brisbane. Sitting in the back passenger seat of the langos van and seeing the span of the Great Dividing Range really made me feel miniscule in the whole scheme of Australia, let alone the world.
Stanthorpe has a really great vibe about it, it seems to be quite a rocky area as many residential homes have large rocks pointing out of their lawns, perhaps once a rock face being over-layered with turf. The people there are also very friendly, typical of a laid back Australian country town.
The Apple and Grape Festival takes place every two years and with 2016 being its 50th festival, apparently, they're really going to cook up a storm. The two days at the festival was spent making and selling langos. On the first day, initially people had no idea what langos were hence business was boring (i.e. no one came, my definition of bad business is not "not making money", but having "no one to greet"). So Lakshmi made me a "show" Chilli Non Carne (that's right, it's vegetarian chilli) to "show eat" around the festival. As in, I would only be taking delicate bites whilst displaying the langos on a delectably-promotional angle. It worked alright! I had lots of people stare at the langos - and then when I went back to the stall we had a line up of people already - success!
Leaving this morning on the Monday (10th March), before we departed for Brisbane, we went to visit an elderly couple whom L & Y had befriended the previous day. Marcia, 65 and Atlier, of whom the latter is 82, they have been together for 2 years - hats off to Atlier, he's doing well. Marcia is a softly spoken woman, talented artist and mother of two who had experienced domestic violence earlier in life. Atlier is a Hungarian War Veteren who is very multi-talented (IT specialist, construction manager and he even delivered a baby on route escaping from Hungary in the 1960s.)
Of their stories and interests, I wish we could have stayed longer, they are truly lovely people. Atlier so stoically-scarred yet caring of the world and his experiences. On the other hand Marcia, so interested in the world with her Australian up-bringing with her subdued vibrance seemingly ready to burst out every time she talks about art, water colour, fashion and people. They are such interesting people , it seems trivial to mention this now, but the moment we arrived; they gave us each a shot of homemade pear liqueur with an alcoholic content of 37% on our empty stomachs.
Stanthorpe has a really great vibe about it, it seems to be quite a rocky area as many residential homes have large rocks pointing out of their lawns, perhaps once a rock face being over-layered with turf. The people there are also very friendly, typical of a laid back Australian country town.
The Apple and Grape Festival takes place every two years and with 2016 being its 50th festival, apparently, they're really going to cook up a storm. The two days at the festival was spent making and selling langos. On the first day, initially people had no idea what langos were hence business was boring (i.e. no one came, my definition of bad business is not "not making money", but having "no one to greet"). So Lakshmi made me a "show" Chilli Non Carne (that's right, it's vegetarian chilli) to "show eat" around the festival. As in, I would only be taking delicate bites whilst displaying the langos on a delectably-promotional angle. It worked alright! I had lots of people stare at the langos - and then when I went back to the stall we had a line up of people already - success!
Leaving this morning on the Monday (10th March), before we departed for Brisbane, we went to visit an elderly couple whom L & Y had befriended the previous day. Marcia, 65 and Atlier, of whom the latter is 82, they have been together for 2 years - hats off to Atlier, he's doing well. Marcia is a softly spoken woman, talented artist and mother of two who had experienced domestic violence earlier in life. Atlier is a Hungarian War Veteren who is very multi-talented (IT specialist, construction manager and he even delivered a baby on route escaping from Hungary in the 1960s.)
Of their stories and interests, I wish we could have stayed longer, they are truly lovely people. Atlier so stoically-scarred yet caring of the world and his experiences. On the other hand Marcia, so interested in the world with her Australian up-bringing with her subdued vibrance seemingly ready to burst out every time she talks about art, water colour, fashion and people. They are such interesting people , it seems trivial to mention this now, but the moment we arrived; they gave us each a shot of homemade pear liqueur with an alcoholic content of 37% on our empty stomachs.
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