Yoga Camp

Thank God for Yoga! It didn't take long to settle into a healing and relaxation routine while indulging in life's simple pleasures. Each morning was blessed with a 7am Vinyasa class taught be Tami or Jodi gracefully incorporating special partner poses, breath techniques and life lessons into each session. 17 beautiful souls rose to warm air, the sweet sound of the ocean, the birds in the sky. By 8:30am the sun grew warm and made its way onto the practice space, a cliff overlooking the expansive ocean, our necks softly massaged laying in Shavasana. The smell of coconut oil filling the air reminding our bellies that breakfast was just moments away. With ayurvedic treatments and massages on the horizon, the group was served meals based on their personal constitution while I (being my rebellious self) decided to forgo treatments and order off the menu. In either case, the food was simply wonderful. The kitchen staff outdid themselves on a daily basis consistently serving delightful food with special South Indian spice recipes. In the morning fruit salads with cashews and shredded coconut, banana pancakes, masala dosas and cheese chapattis. For lunch, coconut rice with curry veggies, and dinner a nice assortment of dishes including palak paneer, lentils and fish masala. My ultimate favorite was at a restaurant on the North Cliff serving well spiced butter fish or blue marlin wrapped and stewed in a banana leaf. The best meal I've ever had my friends cost all of $5.


Such gratitude each of us felt to have been part of the group uniting at Oceano Resort. Residing on the South Cliff of Varkala Beach, Oceano is the perfect spot for a quiet retreat escaping the bustling North Cliff with its shops and restaurants. Only a 50 Rupee rickshaw ride away, one can venture to the North Cliff fulfilling their shopping desires, a visit to the tailor (who may or may not perfect the art of sizing trousers) or a nice glass of Kingfisher beer. Varkala Beach is a gem in South India. In addition to the nearly perfect tropical climate, (watch out for monsoon season) you can find all the rejuvenating things your body desires; from yoga, to ayurvedic treatments, massages, delightful food and endless hours of beach time.

Tami and Jodi led a beautiful yoga retreat at Oceano. I was fortunate to be a part of it and meet such wonderful people including the helpful staff. I will forever cherish the sweet memories and timeless photos of India.

Namaste,

Fadi

India!

The 31 Hour Journey...

When I awoke that final morning in Malaysia, I had no idea what manifested ahead in the form of travel. The modes of transportation I would find myself on awaiting the next chapter in a long day of travel. The faces and kind souls that would assist a confused backpacker out on a limb, without the proper maps. I am still mystified at what the body is capable of and will attempt to recreate the exact path and modes of transportation used to finally arrive to Varkala Beach, India.

It was 8am when I departed Pangkor, Malaysia. I took a taxi for 10 Ringgit to the Jetty station. I then boarded a 40 minute ferry ride through the fishing passages and arrived to Lumut 30 minutes before my bus left for Kuala Lumpur. The bus took exactly 4 hours, leaving plenty of time to relax at an internet cafe before departing for the airport. I took a taxi to the Sentral train station where I boarded a 30 minute train arriving to Kuala Lumpur airport 2 hours before my flight to Bangalore, India. The flight was 3 hours in total and with a timely question, I met Raj, a student pilot flying home to Bangalore. Raj suggested I purchase a plane ticket to Cochin, a 1.5 hour ride in the direction I needed to travel. I had recalled my sister naming a different city called Trivandrum that was closer to Varkala Beach where she'd be staying. The next flight to either destination was at 6am and I had arrived at 12am. I braved the night at the Bangalore Airport unaware no-one is allowed into the terminal until half past 4am. Hard cement and hundreds of people in the streets made it difficult rest or even close my eyes. I purchased a ticket to Cochin since it was cheaper and shortly after spotted a map of South India. Cochin was at least 4 hours away from where I needed to go... I asked the gal at the travel counter if I could switch and pay the difference. With confusion & frustration she fumbled her papers and after a few clicks of the mouse told me to come back at 4am. I waited patiently and approached just as I was told and she still couldn't help me. I went back at 5am, another blank stare. I was fed up and decided I was meant to fly to Cochin. I vaguely remember the ride, the sandwich I ate stuffed with egg and the voice of an American Indian man arguing over his cell phone just before the flight departed. I spotted him at baggage claim and asked if he knew how I could get to Varkala Beach. He laughed when I asked since it was still quite far, but said he would help me by asking around in Hindi. Rajesh wrote some long city names in row on a piece of paper, the advice given by a taxi driver. He said to jump in his taxi and he'd drop me off at the bus station. We exchanged stories and I found out this was his first trip back to India in 20 years and he was here to visit his Grandmother. The taxi stopped and I jumped out. I waved back at Rajesh as he screamed "don't worry Fadi, India is safe!" Stares began filling the station, all eyes on this precariously looking dark fellow with two backpacks. I approached several people asking for directions and advice. No-one could understand me. I began walking and talking... "Varkala, Trivandrum, which bus, can you help me, do you speak English"? Nothing! I was finally dragged by the arm and was guided onto a bus. I asked "how long is the ride, which stop is mine & when do I get off"? His reply "Driver, driver". What??!! The doors closed and the entire bus stared me down. My head hurt, but I had a window seat. The Conductor was collecting Rupees from the passengers and approached me asking where I was going. I said "not sure" and handed him 10 Rupees. He stood confused. I said "Varkala" and his eyes lifted staying OOOH.. 49 Rupees. I gladly paid ($1 dollar = 40 Rupees) and asked the name of my stop and how long it would take. "Alleppey" he replied and then what sounded like 3 hours. 3 hours! I looked at my ticket. It said Alappuzha. That didn't sound like Alleppey. Seriously Fadi, where is your map?! I sat and sat, the door opening and closing, the conductor holding it with a string. The bus filled to capacity passing city after city , stop after stop. In and out of consciousness, I tried to take in each moment, each scene we passed, each second of the experience. Finally arriving I disembarked only to relive the same feeling as before, only this time a few other Westerners joined my confusion. I was told where the next bus would leave from and that it would take another 3 hours. My stomach rumbled and I thought of my last airline meal at 7am . The bus was packed. Only one-seat for my me and my bags, which turned to be a womans only seat. I gave up my seat and then stood, finally sitting in the aisle on my pack for some cushion. A couple from Vancouver BC accompanied my ride, their Lonely Planet assuring me I was heading in the right direction.

That bus finally dropped me in a city that was 15 kilometers passed Varkala. The Conductor and I exchanged several words, neither of us understanding each other. I finally figured that I would still need to take one final bus into Varkala and this was where it left from. I thanked him and walked off. It was 3pm and I was starving. I spotted some bananas and as I paid heard the voices of two Austrians asking if I'd like to share a Rickshaw into Varkala. I gladly boarded my first of many Rickshaws having the driver drop me at the resort where Tami's yoga retreat would be held. I would surprise her and Jodi as they were sitting on beach chairs, drinking pineapple juice when I arrived, EXCEPT they hadn't arrived yet. 2 hours later, hugs and kisses and laughter all around.

Malaysia

'Selamat Datang' or welcome as they say in Malaysia. Another memorable experience to share from the new and developed city of Kuala Lumpur to the beautiful and simple fishing Island of Pulau Pangkor.

Arriving in KL was smooth and easy after an eight hour flight on Malaysia Airlines. To my surprise, customs in Malaysia did not require filling any type of immigration card nor did the officers so much as bat an eye as I passed through the gates. I approached with caution and with the constant feeling of missing something, specifically that piece of paper most other countries require in order to let you in. Not here in Malaysia and I still can't tell you why. Nevertheless, entry was granted with a stamp and I was on my way to my hostel 'Number 8' as it's called. I chose Number 8 based on a recommendation from a local I met on a train from Los Angeles to San Diego some months ago. Choon and I had been communicating since, but sadly we were to miss each other by one day as he traveled back from France. He said to stay at Number 8 and that I wouldn't be disappointed, and he was right. The Hostel was clean and friendly, the staff generous and helpful. It was a nice base in the bustling city. Arriving late, I slept off my travels and awoke to toast and jam. I then hit the town on foot, then by monorail. I arrived at the Twin Towers, the pride of the nation and one of the tallest buildings in the world. The Towers stand majestically amidst the skyline in the heart of the city. They are stylish and have a skybridge connecting at level 41. They offer a free Skybridge tour with a video and ten minutes to scope the views of KL. Perplexed at anything free, I gladly asked for a ticket and was quite pleased with the tour. From there I walked to the KL tower another city landmark avoiding motorbikes and cars. By then it was mid afternoon and I was feeling the effects of a busy city day. I pondered my next move having a look at my guide. My eyes landing on Pulau Pangkor (Pangkor Island) situated off the coast of Perak. The description was that of the most beautiful islands with the best beaches on the western coast. I read the passage over and over until I had decided that is where I wanted to spend my next two days. I walked into a hotel lobby and asked the kind woman for some advice. She gave me precise directions for the bus to the town of Lumut and then a short walk to the Jetty where I could catch a boat to the Island. All that would eventually cost me 25 Ringgit one-way (just under $8) and would take 6 hours total. What a deal. I ran to the Hostel and asked for an early check out, which was granted with no fee. I then taxied to the bus station confirming the ticket for 8:30am the following morning. The travel bug had struck in full effect. I spent the rest of the evening in KL walking the streets in a daze of amazement for how life is conducted in other parts of the world. The feeling of gratitude upon me as I thought of the comforts of home and how blessed I am to live where I do.

I arrived Pangkor just as I was directed and taxied to the community of Teluk Nipah where I had heard of secluded beaches and natural beauty. I was immediately pleased to find not one local trying to direct me to a lodge, sell me a snorkel trip or ask me where I had come from. Very unusual from other experiences in similar environments. I walked at my own pace asking a few lodges for pricing and availability the latter a silly question considering the Island was virtually empty. I chose my place just off the beach and proceeded to explore the Island by Motorbike just 7 Ringgit ($2/ hour). I rode around the Island taking in views of the natural environment and wild monkeys. I had left my camera, which saddened me. When would I see wild monkeys again? To my great fortunate I had a run in on the beach the following day. Returning I indulged in some local food snacking on prawn fried rice and later fried noodles and soup. I retired to my room and looked forward to continuing the easy life with a nice sleep. The following day was going to be a rough one consisting of swimming, reading, writing, taking photos and eating more tasty meals. Life was tough.

Short but sweet, my time in Pangkor came to an end and I returned back to KL. I await my flight to India where I will eventually see my beautiful Sister Tami and her dear friend Jodi; both leading a 10 day yoga retreat.
Pictures of Malaysia will be posted soon. All my love, Fadi

Australia - The other place I call home

It's been a while and I apologize. I've been consumed by the warm spaces that fill the hearts of each member of my Australian family. Who with open arms welcomed a tired traveller with a dirty backpack into their homes, sharing meals and joyous memories. I'll share a few tales from the Land Down Under...

It was 2002 when I first visited Australia - studying abroad at the University of Newcastle two hours North of Sydney. For those of you who know Canuck, Brett, Lolo, Joel Barnes (JB), Sordze, Large, Woody, Jason Lewis and Mclease (to name a few) this is where I met them. I had no idea coming to Australia in 2002 would completely reshape my life. The beauty of this land manifests from the sea to the sky, but truly the most incredible gift I received are THE PEOPLE. Others close to my family are also cherished, foremost the gorgeous children of my Dad's best friend who passed away many years ago. The friendship my Dad shared with his dear friend Mokbil will forever live on. Years ago, Dad left Egypt and Mokbil stayed becoming a Coptic Priest. Once a Priest, a new identity is given as 'Father' and Mokbil became know as Abouna (Father in Arabic) Boulos. Both families kept in touch over oceans and time zones. Two of Abouna's children now reside in Sydney, Australia with their own sweet families. I was greeted at the Sydney airport by the family just the way it happened six years ago. Within an hour we gathered around a beautiful Egyptian spread catching up over the past few years. The chidlren were excited for their new friend (or should I say Uncle) and I was excited to hang with 4 and 7 year olds. I stayed most of the weekend enjoying the energetic spirits of the children, the sights of Sydney and the amazing hospitality of my family.

With brilliant timing I arrived on 'Australia Day' weekend and the entire Country was a buzz. Sydney Harbor was electric. We ventured into the heart of Darling Harbor after a short ferry ride. My good mates JB & Sordz also joined the family affair that afternoon. Such a pleasure to see them and reminisce about old times at Uni, our famous Whistler reunions, the time we met in San Diego and when Sordz came to Seattle. We made plans to reunite the following day and JB graciously offered me a ride and a bed at his house in Tumut (4 hours SW of Sydney) for a few days until we'd travel to Melbourne the next weekend. JB lives with his sensational girlfriend Sandy, a true gem with all the right ingredients for delightful meals and a welcoming home. We arrived Tumut just after midnight and had wonderful sleeps. The following days we enjoyed JB's BBQ breakfasts, a trip to Yarrangobilly Caves (home to the most stunning and remarkable cave decorations and stalagmite) swimming in fresh water Dams and a wake surf behind JB's boat. With a few days of work ahead of JB and Sandy, I made myself at home in Tumut taking in the comforts of internet, yoga, running, relaxing, movies and good food. It was already Friday and we were again on the road heading to Melbourne.


A short night stop along the way led us into the town of Albury 3 hours North of Melbourne. JB's friend Waz lives in an amazing house, which only compliments an amazing guy. Waz prepared BBQ, brews, beds and a great evening of laughs. The following morning we were treated to a gourmet breaky and decided to hit some wineries before our drive to Melbourne. The historic town of Beechworth was a perfect place for some tastings, leaving us nice and rosy for our trek. Thanks to Sandy, we safely arrived Melbourne and checked into UniLodge, our accommodation. The evening was spent around the city doing what we do best; indulging. We checked out the next morning, had a bite and hit the shops on Bridge Rd. in Richmond. I bought a shirt and Sandy bought out all the shops :-). We were down to our last few hours approaching a sad see-ya-later to my dear friends. What an amazing time it was. Words can not describe how grateful I am for our time together, the energy you took driving me around and all the laughs we shared. I look forward to our next reunion and can't wait to host JB and Sandy in May 2009 for Ski-to-Sea!


A simultaneous hand-off left me in good hands as Peter my favourite Aussie Artist was there to greet me and spend the rest of the day showing me the sights of his home town. We walked along Chapel St. staring inside shops where jeans cost $300, had kebabs, went to his friend Fatima's Moroccan import shop, and ended up in the hip streets of St. Kilda where he and Fatima reside. I was happy to be in an exciting city with such good company. That evening I had dinner with a dear friend Maha who is the daughter of another one of Dad's friends. Maha lives and works in Melbourne and has recently been engaged to Basam. The connections continue...


In December of 2005, I travelled to Egypt, Jordan & Israel just before meeting my family for Christmas in Egypt. While staying outside the wall of Petra in Jordan, I was acquainted with a family from Ballarat, a city just 100 Kilometres outside of Melbourne. The Parents James and Anne have three boys and travelling with them was their youngest Mark. We shared a special experience in Jordan and left each other with the promise to visit whenever possible. Just two years later I am fortunate to re-visit their beautiful Country. I rang Mark the first night I arrived and he joined JB, Sandy, John, Bennie, Jason and I while we roamed around. Mark lives in the city finishing up his Uni program. We made a plan to ride the train to Ballarat to visit his parents in the next few days. Before I knew it, we were gathered at their beautiful home reminiscing of our trip and sharing in more wonderful food. Again I am blessed and filled with abundant joy as I reconnected with dear friends. In the morning, Mark skipped yet another day of Uni to show me around Melbourne on bikes. We rode through the city stopping at Hosier lane - allys of graffiti art -, then had a lunch at Hare Krishna - $5 all you can eat Indian food!- then onto Sydney road (or little Lebanon) where we shared Turkish coffee, bag-gammon and sheesha, which of course was only the second one Mark had ever had. (The first being with me in Jordan) We then rode to his mate Andrew's house and then back to Mark's place. I highly recommend a full day city riding - A great way to see glorious Melbourne.

Dinner that evening was a huge success as all gathered for my final evening. Mark and Nadira, Peter and Fatima, Maha and Basam and I all dined at an exceptional seafood restaurant called 'Claypot' in St. Kilda. We shared tapas and a gigantic snapper cooked to perfection enjoying good conversation and worlds of experiences. Peter kindly escorted me to the airport shuttle the next morning and I departed for my return to Sydney. Upon arrival I took the train to meet Sordz, his roommates and house guests. I was entertained and laughed the nights away and returned back to my Egyptian host family for my final nights in Australia. Maher kindly drove me to Sydney Harbor one last time and arranged a tour of the Opera House, one of the worlds most famous structures ever created. We learned its history, unique architecture and symbolic presence here in Sydney.

Another THANKS to Madlaine, Maher, Mary, Magad, Aunt Renee, the kids, JB, Sandy, Mark, Nadira, James, Anne, Sordze, Bennie, Waz, Peter, Fatima, Maha and Basam. Without you Australia isn't complete. Cheers and God Bless. -Fadi

The South Island Road Trip

Total Kilometers: 3,221

Total Miles: 2,001

What a beautiful trip it's been...

It began with a ferry crossing like no other. The 3.5 hour crossing begins in Wellington and arrives Picton after passing through the Cooke Straight and the remarkable Marlborough Sounds. Peaks of luscious forrest around each corner. Eyes of amazement focused on the beauty. As the ferry glided to its destination a sense of excitement struck. My long awaited arrival to the South Island had arrived. Within a few hours I arrived to the warm, sunny town of Nelson; a thriving city on the coast. The vibe was too good to leave, so I stayed and found myself roaming the streets and eating spicy tuna rolls at a local sushi joint. Nelson is famous for a few things, mainly the amazing weather, but also the access to Abel Tasman National Park. 60km North lives a stunningly beautiful area with a wonderful reputation for kayaking, hiking and acres of untouchable forrest. Sounded cool, so I drove there the following morning. Abel Tasman is New Zealand's smallest, but most famous National Park home to golden sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, lush green bushland and amazing wildlife. After a long day of kayaking with internationals and a wonderful guide, we whisked back on a water taxi passing dolphins and watching the boats bridge atop of trailers pushed by tractors. A few minutes away lives my accommodation for the evening; none other than Old Mac-Donald Farm. If anyone is keen, it's actually for-sale at the moment at a modest $7 mill. For that you get 100 acres at the footsteps of the park. A bit of care for the lamas, sheep, cows, birds, roosters might also be necessary. At the farm, I met a nice couple from Chicago and a brother and sister from Seattle traveling for similar reasons. I awoke to red bumps and sore muscles, but mostly I was pissed about the attack of the sand-flies! Never-the-less, I hiked a few hours before leaving the park headed for beautiful Punakaiki home of the Pancake Rocks.

The rocks are limestone formations which were once under the sea shore and are now surfaced. As the waves crash the formations crumble slowly a few pieces at a time into the sea. They say within 1000 years, they will all be gone. The highlight of Punakaiki was the lodge I fortunately found; one I would highly recommend. Te Nikau Retreat ranks perhaps as one of the most relaxing backpackers in the country. Carved out of bush and deep in the rainforest, I slept like a baby. It was a refreshing and sincerely sweet spot and as the manager said "I would wish I could stay another night". I did wish, but I didn't stay. Gotta keep moving... Driving the West Coast of the South Island was becoming more special by the day and I felt a sense of accomplishment with each new arrival.

Next stop: Franz Joseph Glacier: a village at the base of a gigantic glacier in the Southern Alps. I arrived to Franz in the evening and checked into the Montrose backpackers just around supper time. It was raining hard and I was told stories of a huge rescue mission off the glacier that day because of the heavy rain. The forecast for the following day was looking better, so I went ahead and booked a day hike and crossed my fingers. Indeed I awoke to breaking clouds and before I knew it, I was ascending through the rocky valley until reaching the base. From there we strapped on our crampons and began our 2 hour hike through the narrow walls and deep passages of the powerful glacier. It was truly an exciting, challenging and rewarding experience. That night, I relaxed filled with a brilliant feeling of achievement and gratitude for God's creation and the value nature has on each of us. I was ready to hit up Queenstown.

The drive from Franz to Queenstown will forever be a memorable drive. Never have I encountered such beauty continually passing magnificent hillsides, lake, rivers and terrific views. I averaged 20kms before having to stop for a photo. In total I drove just over 375km and passed through the towns of Fox Glacier, Haast and Wanaka. The word on the street is that Queenstown is notorious for two things: The nightlife and outdoor extreme adventures. I hadn't even reached the town center before I'd seen three bungee jumping companies and a large chair lift used for paragliding and of course riding the Luge. (a go-cart ride) The nightlife became evident the minute I arrived to the Pinewood Lodge. Three Swedish guys (who had been rescued off of Franz that stormy day) and an Irishman discussed the events of the previous night. I walked into a very good vibe. I chose Pinewood Lodge based on a recommendation from an American couple I met in Fiji. They said they'd be there during my visit and so I thought I'd pop in. Sure enough, they were there and we shared BBQ and stories the evening I arrived. I also became great mates with my new Swedes and ended up in Queenstown the next 4 nights. Before getting too deep into Queenstown's adventures, I first headed to Milford Sound the most northerly and most celebrated of Firodlands fifteen fiords. I was instructed not to miss Milford. After all my driving, I decided to have a break and travel by coach to the Sound. The scenic drive was definitely better enjoyed from the front seat of a cozy bus listening to the dry humor of our kiwi driver. I saw the most stunning vertical waterfalls, rivers and lakes EVER. From a ferry, we sailed through the Sound and into the Tasman Sea. I was lucky to meet Felipe from Brazil and Sarah from Auckland who were also staying at Pinewood. That evening we got together with the Swedes and had a night out in Queenstown. First stop was Winnies bar where Ian Steger (Bravo and Seth's buddy from Bellingham) plays manager. It was great to see Ian and share my adventure with a brother from home. The next few days were spent with Max, Joel, Robin (the Swedes) and Felipe roaming Queenstown, eating Fergie burgers, riding the luge, river surfing (killer adventure) and of course laughing our arses off. Thanks for the memories fellas and can't wait to see you again... I departed Queenstown a bit sore from the river, but with so many good memories. Next stop Christchurch.

And what a good choice! Upon arrival I was welcomed into Mony's house the friend I stayed with in Wellington. His parents live there and he was home visiting. Such a warm and friendly environment. His mom Mimi so sweet, dad so generous and kind. I ate warm cooked Egyptian meals, had great conversations, saw Christchurch from the locals perspective and made some lifelong new friends. A true thanks to the family and also Bish for driving us around and the movies we watched! Would love to repay the favour brothers so please visit soon.

I spent my last two days in Auckland. Heba and her Iraqi friends were kind enough to spend the day with me on Waiheke Island where we tasted wine, beer, played lifesize chess games and enjoyed each others company.

Off to Australia. Peace and Love to all. -Fadi

I was just thinking...

What a special country. The sun is hot even when it's cloudy. It burns and I don't burn very easily. Sand-flies are the smallest and most painful species I have encountered. The native Maori's thought they were helpful. I disagree. My forehead looks like I'm in the 7th grade. I drive on the left side of the road; turning right, then left, then right again discovering new landscapes, new colors, rolling hills, valleys, rivers, lakes, cows, plants, sheep. And more sheep. Sheep everywhere. They say there are 15 sheep for every person in New Zealand. Miles of undiscovered, untouched bush. It's quite amazing. There are 4 million residents living on both islands in New Zealand. 1.3 live in Auckland. It's clean, honest, safe and often takes the breath from inside out. New, unique, rugged. Its rains. It's summertime in January. Beer is drank and Tui is local. 'Sweet-As' means cool. 'Cheers' is more than tapping your glass. Your bum is your 'arse'. The bathroom is a 'toilet'. Things cost money.. Go figure! A dorm bed averages $25; a single $50. Heaps of the people from all countries travel to New Zealand to discover, ponder and experience. I reckon it's a good place.

New Zealand - The North Island

Landing in Auckland was peaceful and warm. A well organized and efficient airport glazed me through customs in a matter of minutes. Shuttle service awaited just outside the door with a friendly driver who led me to my hostel in the suburb of Parnell, just 2 Kilometers outside the city center. Parnell boasts charm and character and survived the re-development of many Auckland suburbs. I stayed three nights at the Lantana Lodge, a backpacker friendly hostel in Parnell. There I met Gys (Gus) a Dutch 'man' ( Haha Gus:) who's family moved to Ontario, Canada a years back. Gys and I shared a room along side a quirky Korean employed by Qantas Air fixing airplane engines. Gys and I quickly became mates and shared a couple great days riding the ferry to Devonport and hiking the hills of Auckland. I also was fortunate to connect with Heba, a friend of a friend who graciously showed me around Auckland and joined me for Coptic Christmas at the church in Auckland. (January 7th is Coptic Christmas and the midnight mass happens on the 6th). I liked Auckland and will return for two nights before leaving New Zealand bound for Oz.

The next morning I had arranged a shuttle from a rental car company to pick up the car I had hired. Gys and I would part ways as he'd rented a camper van. OH but WAIT... Gys can't get his van for four more days. This information surfaced just as I was leaving. I asked Gys if he'd like to join me as I drove to Hamilton and spent a few days at Kiwi Steves, a friend of Nick Hartrich's. Within seconds it was a go.. We met Steve towards the evening hours. Steve has a great house and friendly flatmates. The next morning Steve, Gys and and Ludo (Steve's puppy black lab) piled into "CC" my rental bound for sights and nature. Steve is a great guide. We first stopped in Tirau to view the corrugated steel wonders of the town. We then continued onto Rotorua and walked around the geothermal pools. Next we swam in the hot/cold pool and shared a couple hours with each other and the tour bus that unloaded. After our soak, we drove to the Buried Village to view the historic site of the 1886 Eruption of the Tarawwra volcano. To top of the day, we hiked to the top of Mt. Maunganui for some beautiful views of the area.

We awoke and began our day with a spectacular visit to the Karangahake Gorge where we walked through tunnels hugging cliffs, through caves and finally jumping in the river. We then rode to Waihi, Steve's home town & New Zealands heart of Gold, passing the Coromandel Peninsula a mountainous interior range. While in Waihi, we saw the famous mining spot, had lunch and then hit the beach for some body surfing and yoga moves. Nice job Steve and Gys learning the headstand! Next it was off to Steve's Nana's followed by his Mum's house. Such gracious hosts, we ate snacks and watched the dogs bark at each other. A beautiful sun-set drive and Hangi (pronounced Hungi; consisting of meat and vegetables steamed in an earth oven) dinner concluded the day.

I departed solo the following morning beginning my journey to Wellington. Eight hours of little towns, amazing landscapes, a nice swim in Lake Taupo passing thousands upon thousands of sheep. Everywhere sheep. Beyond belief. Finally, I arrived to Wellington and was greeted by Moni another family friend. We had dinner and beers before heading off to sleep. My sights were set on the South Island. A HUGE thanks to Kiwi Steve, Gys, Heba and Moni for a memorable North Island experience. I'm keen to repay the favour, so please visit soon!