Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Loving Capetown...
Day 2: Cape Point
I was required to go on a SAS trip for one (actually my 3 econ) class. I am definitely glad it was required because I wouldn’t have signed up for it, and boy would I have missed out! Our guide was terrific and I learned some many random things about many aspects of South Africa. Our first stop was a seal breeding colony. How cool. It was like being at the zoo but so much better. The seals are full of life. Our next stop was a huge statue park. When I asked a vendor what the statues were made out of the answer I got was “stone” (slightly obvious). I have no idea what kind but the statues were amazing. They had from very small figurines to huge sculptures. The designs and details were amazing! I had fun taking pictures… The next actual stop was Cape Point, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. Everywhere there were signs “Don’t feed the baboons,” “Beware of Baboons,” and the “The Baboons are dangerous.” We didn’t see any of the notorious baboons but we did see wild ostriches. To get to the light house atop of Cape Point, one must either hike or take the cable car. I chose to walk, since its free, and got some excellent views along the way. And mom, I took a picture of it for you. After lunch we headed to Boulder’s beach to see the penguins. Unfortunately there was a boardwalk, so actually mingling with, or being “thigh high in penguins” was impossible. Penguins are odd creatures. And for Kayla I took a picture of two mating. I really enjoyed the tour and I learned a lot about SA (and this is definitely the “I-am-too-lazy-to–type-all-the-details-version”).
Day Three: Company’s Gardens
After a late start, Janelle and Darnel and I headed to the East Dutch Indies Gardens. The gardens were absolutely gorgeous but it was at least 100 degrees outside. Around these gardens are many famous and important buildings, including parliament, St. Georges Cathedral, the National Library, and the Slave Lodge. I say all of them but the only place I visited was the South African Museum. It was soooo interesting. It was a natural history museum. I am pretty sure that I learned about every facet of SA’s natural history. Dinos, fossils, sea creatures/sharks, wildlife, rocks and gems, the indigenous people, the solar system/galaxy, and so much more! I got to touch a 250 million year old dino fossil! I was thoroughly impressed and if flooded me with memories of museum-going with my grandparents and parents.
Day 4: Three mile walk with a wooden giraffe
I headed to the Green Square Market to pick up some local crafts. I spent way too much (since I hadn’t fine-tuned my bargining skills) but I did get some cool items. One of them was this 3 foot wooden giraffe which I then attempted to carry back to the ship three miles away. I made it but not after my arms were ready to fall off.
I was required to go on a SAS trip for one (actually my 3 econ) class. I am definitely glad it was required because I wouldn’t have signed up for it, and boy would I have missed out! Our guide was terrific and I learned some many random things about many aspects of South Africa. Our first stop was a seal breeding colony. How cool. It was like being at the zoo but so much better. The seals are full of life. Our next stop was a huge statue park. When I asked a vendor what the statues were made out of the answer I got was “stone” (slightly obvious). I have no idea what kind but the statues were amazing. They had from very small figurines to huge sculptures. The designs and details were amazing! I had fun taking pictures… The next actual stop was Cape Point, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. Everywhere there were signs “Don’t feed the baboons,” “Beware of Baboons,” and the “The Baboons are dangerous.” We didn’t see any of the notorious baboons but we did see wild ostriches. To get to the light house atop of Cape Point, one must either hike or take the cable car. I chose to walk, since its free, and got some excellent views along the way. And mom, I took a picture of it for you. After lunch we headed to Boulder’s beach to see the penguins. Unfortunately there was a boardwalk, so actually mingling with, or being “thigh high in penguins” was impossible. Penguins are odd creatures. And for Kayla I took a picture of two mating. I really enjoyed the tour and I learned a lot about SA (and this is definitely the “I-am-too-lazy-to–type-all-the-details-version”).
Day Three: Company’s Gardens
After a late start, Janelle and Darnel and I headed to the East Dutch Indies Gardens. The gardens were absolutely gorgeous but it was at least 100 degrees outside. Around these gardens are many famous and important buildings, including parliament, St. Georges Cathedral, the National Library, and the Slave Lodge. I say all of them but the only place I visited was the South African Museum. It was soooo interesting. It was a natural history museum. I am pretty sure that I learned about every facet of SA’s natural history. Dinos, fossils, sea creatures/sharks, wildlife, rocks and gems, the indigenous people, the solar system/galaxy, and so much more! I got to touch a 250 million year old dino fossil! I was thoroughly impressed and if flooded me with memories of museum-going with my grandparents and parents.
Day 4: Three mile walk with a wooden giraffe
I headed to the Green Square Market to pick up some local crafts. I spent way too much (since I hadn’t fine-tuned my bargining skills) but I did get some cool items. One of them was this 3 foot wooden giraffe which I then attempted to carry back to the ship three miles away. I made it but not after my arms were ready to fall off.
Monday, February 20, 2006
DAY ONE in SA
Day One:
I did an SAS trip and went to the District Six Museum and a township named Langa. The Museum was slightly overwhelming for someone who is not familiar with District Six and S.A.’s racist history. I got the jist of it but didn’t feel like I learned as much as I should have. District is an area of town that the government confiscated from the black inhabitants and made into a “white-only area.” They kicked out all of the blacks and then bulldozed all of it down except for a couple of churches. The museum is a tribute to those who lived there and the struggle of the black man versus the white government.
Next, we went to Langa. The housing this area was from the 1920s and 1940s. At first glance it didn’t look that horrible and there were many small, (old and run down) houses but not really the shanties to which the townships are notorious for. We did pass some on the way out, but the tour guide said the new government (instated in around 1994) is making a massive effort to provide housing and eliminate the shanty towns. We went in to a government owned hostel (one form of public housing). Families rent one twin sized bed (regardless of size) and share the room with on e or two other families. There was 6 bedrooms; a nasty no-stove, no refrigerator, no sink kitchen, and a common area (with a picnic table as a dining table and a sink). All together there were 16 families occupying this area big enough for a family of six people in the states. It wasn’t until recently, (I think 1985) that electricity and water was installed. Even more recently was a light in each room installed. After that we went to a new government flat while still very small this one was at least humanely livable. It reminded me of a low rent apartment in the states. I, however, didn’t ask how many people lived in the flat.
The Children were absolutely wonderful. They’d just run up to us in the streets and hug us and hold our hands. They loved touching our hair. They were defiantly the highlight. On the way back to the ship the tour guide thanked us for seeing the township. She said that there were many South Africans that never had and didn’t want to. As odd (and wrong) as it felt “touring” the township I think that the people honestly want others to see—so things can change. If people are ignorant of the problem then how can they help?
I did an SAS trip and went to the District Six Museum and a township named Langa. The Museum was slightly overwhelming for someone who is not familiar with District Six and S.A.’s racist history. I got the jist of it but didn’t feel like I learned as much as I should have. District is an area of town that the government confiscated from the black inhabitants and made into a “white-only area.” They kicked out all of the blacks and then bulldozed all of it down except for a couple of churches. The museum is a tribute to those who lived there and the struggle of the black man versus the white government.
Next, we went to Langa. The housing this area was from the 1920s and 1940s. At first glance it didn’t look that horrible and there were many small, (old and run down) houses but not really the shanties to which the townships are notorious for. We did pass some on the way out, but the tour guide said the new government (instated in around 1994) is making a massive effort to provide housing and eliminate the shanty towns. We went in to a government owned hostel (one form of public housing). Families rent one twin sized bed (regardless of size) and share the room with on e or two other families. There was 6 bedrooms; a nasty no-stove, no refrigerator, no sink kitchen, and a common area (with a picnic table as a dining table and a sink). All together there were 16 families occupying this area big enough for a family of six people in the states. It wasn’t until recently, (I think 1985) that electricity and water was installed. Even more recently was a light in each room installed. After that we went to a new government flat while still very small this one was at least humanely livable. It reminded me of a low rent apartment in the states. I, however, didn’t ask how many people lived in the flat.
The Children were absolutely wonderful. They’d just run up to us in the streets and hug us and hold our hands. They loved touching our hair. They were defiantly the highlight. On the way back to the ship the tour guide thanked us for seeing the township. She said that there were many South Africans that never had and didn’t want to. As odd (and wrong) as it felt “touring” the township I think that the people honestly want others to see—so things can change. If people are ignorant of the problem then how can they help?
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
The African Beat...
I absolutely love South Africa!!! Yesterday I went to a township and the district six museum. And today I went to Cape Peninsula and saw penguins, seals, ostriches,and a baboon (all the non-caged variety). It was amazing... I can't wait until I have enough time to write about it all. I am going to go on a day safari on Friday and the wine lands on Saturday. I can't wait! But anyway I just wanted everyone to know that I love Capetown!
Sunday, February 12, 2006
The night before the no-class day was crazy to say the least. That night we had our first ship dance, themed 80s dance party. I have never been that into the 80s or its music but it ended up being the most fun activity on the ship thus far. I actually wasn’t planning on going until after the pub night started. I ripped through my closet to find something to wear… I was definitely going to half to be creative. I came up tube socks I cut into leg warmers, a hot pink bathing suit top, a mutilated wife-beater, and a random mini skirt. And to top it off green eye-shadow and a side ponytail. My friends came to pick me up at my room and we headed to the 7th deck for pub night. Now, if you did not know, SAS strictly monitors alcohol consumption and you are only allowed to have a max of 4 drinks (beer, wine, wine cooler) in a two hour period, and you have to purchase your tickets (for alcohol) before dinner. I also like to note that this is the first time I have drank on the ship (I am trying to save my money for more worth-while ventures). But anyhow, after a quick stop at pubnight we headed to the union to dance. I have no idea how drinks people were actually getting at pubnight, or if perhaps the alcohol tolerance of the entire ship decreased, but there seem to be some very intoxicated people attempting to dance. Very admusing to say the least. The dance party ended at midnight and as soon as the lights came up I was (sweat-drenched and) out of there.
I got to sleep in until 12 the next day (NO CLASS!!) and since my room is pitch dark without any windows I probably could have slept all day. I lounged the entire day. At dinner they had a huge BBQ for us on the pool deck. It was awesome to have a cheese burger and ribs again. Besides have five different deserts, this amazing coconut ice cream was also served. It was defiantly the best two days I have had on the ship so far, but I still can’t wait to get off this boat and to step onto Africa.
I got to sleep in until 12 the next day (NO CLASS!!) and since my room is pitch dark without any windows I probably could have slept all day. I lounged the entire day. At dinner they had a huge BBQ for us on the pool deck. It was awesome to have a cheese burger and ribs again. Besides have five different deserts, this amazing coconut ice cream was also served. It was defiantly the best two days I have had on the ship so far, but I still can’t wait to get off this boat and to step onto Africa.
Friday, February 10, 2006
Update from the middle of the Atlantic!
Hey everybody!
So we are crossing the Atlantic Ocean right now. We are about half way across now. Nothing really new or exciting is going on. I am having my first tests in all of my classes except Global Studies. Our interport lecturer onboard is a South African who spent time on Robben Island with Nelson Mandela. He is a social activist and author. He seems to be very interesting. He spoke today about Africa in general, and all but blamed ever single one of Africa’s problems on corporate globalization (globalization is a conspiracy of the big corporations) and the “Super Powers” (mainly the USA) controlling the IMF and World Bank. I strongly disagree with him on these issues but he seems very knowledgeable in other areas of Africa so I won’t draw any conclusions of his reputability at this time. He talking again tomorrow, so we’ll see… Since I have talked about globalization in all of my classes I am grappling with my own thoughts and opinions on the subject. Just for fun I have started a “predictions for the future” paper in which I am speculating what I think (ideas drawn from my rather uneducated mind) will be happening to the world and economy in the very near future. My goal by the end of the voyage is to finish reading The World is Flat.
I went to another one of Dr. Sherman’s “Change the World” Seminars. I’m telling you this man is soooo interesting. Before will he begin telling us how to change the world he is coaching us on how to change ourselves. Pretty much he is encouraging up to be come more optimistic and “lucky.”
Saturday I get a day off from school. I don’t know if the shipboard community has something planned or not. Hopefully it will just be a chill day!
So we are crossing the Atlantic Ocean right now. We are about half way across now. Nothing really new or exciting is going on. I am having my first tests in all of my classes except Global Studies. Our interport lecturer onboard is a South African who spent time on Robben Island with Nelson Mandela. He is a social activist and author. He seems to be very interesting. He spoke today about Africa in general, and all but blamed ever single one of Africa’s problems on corporate globalization (globalization is a conspiracy of the big corporations) and the “Super Powers” (mainly the USA) controlling the IMF and World Bank. I strongly disagree with him on these issues but he seems very knowledgeable in other areas of Africa so I won’t draw any conclusions of his reputability at this time. He talking again tomorrow, so we’ll see… Since I have talked about globalization in all of my classes I am grappling with my own thoughts and opinions on the subject. Just for fun I have started a “predictions for the future” paper in which I am speculating what I think (ideas drawn from my rather uneducated mind) will be happening to the world and economy in the very near future. My goal by the end of the voyage is to finish reading The World is Flat.
I went to another one of Dr. Sherman’s “Change the World” Seminars. I’m telling you this man is soooo interesting. Before will he begin telling us how to change the world he is coaching us on how to change ourselves. Pretty much he is encouraging up to be come more optimistic and “lucky.”
Saturday I get a day off from school. I don’t know if the shipboard community has something planned or not. Hopefully it will just be a chill day!
Monday, February 06, 2006
Rio, Rio, Rio I can’t believe I was in Rio!
How incredible! Less then 48 hours ago I was in Rio De Janerio. Rio is a crazy beautiful city. The people are gorgeous, the beaches are gorgeous, and the mountains are gorgeous. It definitely one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. I will go back for carnival someday…
Day One
I went to a carnival school. It was amazing. It is a kind of like a community center where any one is welcomed to learn and worship (there was a temple of sorts there to- candomble) Their aim is to get kids off the streets and channel there energy into performing in the carnival. I got to do a carnival dancers workout with the kids. The warm-up was like any other dancer’s warm up (stretching and Pilates-like exercises) and then they taught us some carnival-moves. It was so fun! After that, they taught how to drum the samba beats and actually played some pieces. It was absolutely amazing.
That night I went to the welcome reception at the local university. I sampled the local cuisine and beer (which was extremely bitter and gross). Some Capoeiristas (dancer/fighters) performed their fight dances… its absolutely amazing to watch then move with such skill and precision as then punch, kick, flip, and cartwheel over each other without touching.
Day Two
…actually an extension of day one, since I couldn’t go to bed. Jesse (el jefe), Richard (Q), and I headed to the airport at 1:30am. The flight to Rio was departed at 4am and arrived at 7am. I did my best to sleep in the middle seat but I felt absolutely horrible when I woke up in Rio. I wasn’t quite sure what I had gotten my self into when we got off the plane, b/c it was gloomy and overcast, plus we had to find someplace to stay. To make a long story short we got on the bus, priced a couple of different hotels, and choose one so we could go to bed. The Ducasse Rio Hotel was located right next to a street that goes up a hill into a favela (shanty town=ghetto). The upside was that we armed-police stationed on that corner 24 hours a day.
After a nap we walked to sugar loaf (about 3 or 4 miles away), and took the cable car to the top. Amazing. Beautiful. Sugar loaf was formed from a volcanic eruption and then some bad weathering b/c of the chemical composition of the rock. No matter however it got there, it is beautiful. I got my first great view of the city on the first day, plus I saw Jesus.
On our walk to Sugar Loaf we passed a theatre, and randomly decided to buy tickets for that night’s performance. I have no idea what exactly the plot was but it was musical based around a night club. I did catch that the story moved from decade to decade starting in the 1920s with the flappers and ending in the 70s (with all the characters old and gray) with disco. The dancing was amazing and kept me tuned in for the duration of the show.
After that we headed to next beach down, Impanema (ie “The girl from Impanema”) to find out there was a ‘dress code’, so we couldn’t check out the club we had planned on. We still had a great time observing the Brazilians in their element.
Day Three
Nothing too exciting happened since we slept-in. When we awoke we went to breakfast/lunch at a restaurant along the beach. I order chicken-lasguana. I received a thin layer of noodles followed by ground up chicken (had the same consistence of ground beef) mixed with a red sauce, smothered (and I mean smothered) in a white creamy sauce and their ‘salt cheese.’ Interesting? Yes. Good? You bet! Jesse ordered a Portuguese pizza which was mostly cheese but also had many random ingredients including fried egg. When we got back to the hotel we found out that the (Tijuca) national park closed at five and we wouldn’t have time to get there before it closed. We had found out about a tour to a carnival-group practice that evening. We signed up and were taken to the practice arena. It was amazing to watch these people practice their samba dance. They’re so fast and good. I couldn’t believe people could move that fast. It most reminded me of jig-ing when they free-style.
Day Four
Even though we got back really late to the hotel the night before we got up very early to check out everything we had meant to do the day before. So at 9am we headed out to go hang gliding. We were going to a cliff in the Tijuca National Forest (this rainforest is the largest urban forest in the world) . We arrived, we were instructed on how to do it, and then we pretty much ran down a platform until we ran off and the wind caught the wings. Running was the only slightly scary/thrilling part. But oh man the views! Absolutely gorgeous. I had them take pictures while in the air but I have to get the film developed. It was surreal to look down at the rainforest on the mountain sides and seeing these huge houses with swimming pools and tennis courts all within a mile of the beach and the ocean . I saw the statue of Christ and sugar loaf in the distance. Seeing the mansions in the forest was a stark reminder of the income inequality as I looked off into the distance and saw the favelas littering the sides of the distant mountains.
Next we went to the Christ statue. It (he?) was really cool. It was huge! I am glad I got to stand at Jesus’ feet.
And after a quick stop at the Contemporary Arts Museum we head to the airport a few hours early. We had absolutely no money left on us after the cabbie cleaned us out and for some reason my debit card wasn’t working. At the airport, we met up with a lot of other SASers who were on their way back also from Rio. Everyone looked so tired! But the general consensus was “Everyone loved Rio”
Last Day
Back in Salvador: I definitely did not get the same vibe from Salvador as Rio. I felt awkward in Salvador, maybe in part b/c they (deans and security advisors and the doctor) had me convinced that I was going to get mugged or get malaria or dengue fever. I just didn’t like it. I know many people who did and had a great time but it just intimidated the hell out of me. I went to the beach in the morning with my roommate, Sarah, and my other friend Danielle. We took at ferry over to Itaparica Island (which even people in Rio raved about). It was absolutely gorgeous (even prettier then Copacabana). After frying on the beach and observing the locals (Sunday is beach day) we headed back to get ready for the soccer game. The soccer game was cool. It totally reminded me of a football Sunday with die hard football fans. They got so into it. I was extremely disappointed to see men everywhere peeing in the corners on the walls. By the end of the game there were huge puddles everywhere and it reeked. It definitely turned off some the excitement I had felt about Brazil. Plus there was trash everywhere. I felt so angry (not only b/c I had to walk through people’s urine) but b/c Brazilians don’t seem to have a sense of social responsibility to keep their environment clean. Even in Rio, there was trash everywhere and I had seen numerous people throw garbage into the ocean and streets. It was really disappointing.
But on a last note, Brazil was incredible. I only wish I knew Portuguese, so I could have communicated with many more Brazilians.
Day One
I went to a carnival school. It was amazing. It is a kind of like a community center where any one is welcomed to learn and worship (there was a temple of sorts there to- candomble) Their aim is to get kids off the streets and channel there energy into performing in the carnival. I got to do a carnival dancers workout with the kids. The warm-up was like any other dancer’s warm up (stretching and Pilates-like exercises) and then they taught us some carnival-moves. It was so fun! After that, they taught how to drum the samba beats and actually played some pieces. It was absolutely amazing.
That night I went to the welcome reception at the local university. I sampled the local cuisine and beer (which was extremely bitter and gross). Some Capoeiristas (dancer/fighters) performed their fight dances… its absolutely amazing to watch then move with such skill and precision as then punch, kick, flip, and cartwheel over each other without touching.
Day Two
…actually an extension of day one, since I couldn’t go to bed. Jesse (el jefe), Richard (Q), and I headed to the airport at 1:30am. The flight to Rio was departed at 4am and arrived at 7am. I did my best to sleep in the middle seat but I felt absolutely horrible when I woke up in Rio. I wasn’t quite sure what I had gotten my self into when we got off the plane, b/c it was gloomy and overcast, plus we had to find someplace to stay. To make a long story short we got on the bus, priced a couple of different hotels, and choose one so we could go to bed. The Ducasse Rio Hotel was located right next to a street that goes up a hill into a favela (shanty town=ghetto). The upside was that we armed-police stationed on that corner 24 hours a day.
After a nap we walked to sugar loaf (about 3 or 4 miles away), and took the cable car to the top. Amazing. Beautiful. Sugar loaf was formed from a volcanic eruption and then some bad weathering b/c of the chemical composition of the rock. No matter however it got there, it is beautiful. I got my first great view of the city on the first day, plus I saw Jesus.
On our walk to Sugar Loaf we passed a theatre, and randomly decided to buy tickets for that night’s performance. I have no idea what exactly the plot was but it was musical based around a night club. I did catch that the story moved from decade to decade starting in the 1920s with the flappers and ending in the 70s (with all the characters old and gray) with disco. The dancing was amazing and kept me tuned in for the duration of the show.
After that we headed to next beach down, Impanema (ie “The girl from Impanema”) to find out there was a ‘dress code’, so we couldn’t check out the club we had planned on. We still had a great time observing the Brazilians in their element.
Day Three
Nothing too exciting happened since we slept-in. When we awoke we went to breakfast/lunch at a restaurant along the beach. I order chicken-lasguana. I received a thin layer of noodles followed by ground up chicken (had the same consistence of ground beef) mixed with a red sauce, smothered (and I mean smothered) in a white creamy sauce and their ‘salt cheese.’ Interesting? Yes. Good? You bet! Jesse ordered a Portuguese pizza which was mostly cheese but also had many random ingredients including fried egg. When we got back to the hotel we found out that the (Tijuca) national park closed at five and we wouldn’t have time to get there before it closed. We had found out about a tour to a carnival-group practice that evening. We signed up and were taken to the practice arena. It was amazing to watch these people practice their samba dance. They’re so fast and good. I couldn’t believe people could move that fast. It most reminded me of jig-ing when they free-style.
Day Four
Even though we got back really late to the hotel the night before we got up very early to check out everything we had meant to do the day before. So at 9am we headed out to go hang gliding. We were going to a cliff in the Tijuca National Forest (this rainforest is the largest urban forest in the world) . We arrived, we were instructed on how to do it, and then we pretty much ran down a platform until we ran off and the wind caught the wings. Running was the only slightly scary/thrilling part. But oh man the views! Absolutely gorgeous. I had them take pictures while in the air but I have to get the film developed. It was surreal to look down at the rainforest on the mountain sides and seeing these huge houses with swimming pools and tennis courts all within a mile of the beach and the ocean . I saw the statue of Christ and sugar loaf in the distance. Seeing the mansions in the forest was a stark reminder of the income inequality as I looked off into the distance and saw the favelas littering the sides of the distant mountains.
Next we went to the Christ statue. It (he?) was really cool. It was huge! I am glad I got to stand at Jesus’ feet.
And after a quick stop at the Contemporary Arts Museum we head to the airport a few hours early. We had absolutely no money left on us after the cabbie cleaned us out and for some reason my debit card wasn’t working. At the airport, we met up with a lot of other SASers who were on their way back also from Rio. Everyone looked so tired! But the general consensus was “Everyone loved Rio”
Last Day
Back in Salvador: I definitely did not get the same vibe from Salvador as Rio. I felt awkward in Salvador, maybe in part b/c they (deans and security advisors and the doctor) had me convinced that I was going to get mugged or get malaria or dengue fever. I just didn’t like it. I know many people who did and had a great time but it just intimidated the hell out of me. I went to the beach in the morning with my roommate, Sarah, and my other friend Danielle. We took at ferry over to Itaparica Island (which even people in Rio raved about). It was absolutely gorgeous (even prettier then Copacabana). After frying on the beach and observing the locals (Sunday is beach day) we headed back to get ready for the soccer game. The soccer game was cool. It totally reminded me of a football Sunday with die hard football fans. They got so into it. I was extremely disappointed to see men everywhere peeing in the corners on the walls. By the end of the game there were huge puddles everywhere and it reeked. It definitely turned off some the excitement I had felt about Brazil. Plus there was trash everywhere. I felt so angry (not only b/c I had to walk through people’s urine) but b/c Brazilians don’t seem to have a sense of social responsibility to keep their environment clean. Even in Rio, there was trash everywhere and I had seen numerous people throw garbage into the ocean and streets. It was really disappointing.
But on a last note, Brazil was incredible. I only wish I knew Portuguese, so I could have communicated with many more Brazilians.
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
Mail Call!
I have had numerous emails requesting the addresses for snail mail. I already posted them in Dec but here they are again...
Address like this:
Janine Wilson
Room 4058
C/O: Explorer
"Arrival Date " (either leave blank go to semesteratsea.com)
Port Agent Address
The addresses are as follows....
Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA
(You already missed your chance, it should have been sent by Jan 31)
MAURITIUS--- SEND BY FEB 11TH
Phone: 230 202 7040
Fax: 230 208 5814
Ireland Blyth, Ltd.1 Queen Street
P.O. 53 Port Louis, MAURITIUS
INDIA--- SEND BY FEB 23
Phone: 91 44 252 12032
Fax: 91 44 252 43813
J.M. Baxi & CO.
3rd Floor, Clive Battery Complex
4 & 4A, Rajaji Salai
Chennai-600 001, INDIA
MYANMAR--- SEND BY MAR 2
Phone: 95 1 256 913
Fax: 95 1 256 321
Myanmar Port Authority Sea Horse Agency
347/1st Floor
Mahabandoola Road
Kyauktada,Yangon, MYANMAR
VIETNAM--- SEND BY MAR 11
Phone: 84 8 823 1052
Fax: 84 8 824 2996
General Forwarding & Agency Co., Inc.5
th Fl. OSIC Bldg.
8 Nguyen Hue Avenue
Dist. 1,Ho Chi Minh City, VIETNAM
Hong Kong-- SEND BY MAR 20
Phone: 852 2746 7312
Fax: 852 2744 3240
Inchcape Shipping Services (Hong Kong) Ltd.
Units 1802-1805,18/FNo.
3 Lockhart RoadWanchai, HONG KONG
-ChinaPRC--- SEND BY MAR 24
Phone: 86 532 2653 332
Fax: 86 532 2655 752
Penavico Qingdao
21 Wuxia Road
Quingdao, 266002, P. R. CHINA
JAPAN--- SEND BY MAR 28
Phone: 34 94 424 2100
Fax: 34 94 424 0123
Inchcape Shipping ServicesKenryu Bldg.
Room 5026, Kaigan-dori, Chuo-ku KOBE-shi,
Hyogo-ken 6500024,
JAPAN
And I am not exactly sure why SAS included the port agents phone and fax numbers but I guess I wouldn't use them unless its an emergency...
Address like this:
Janine Wilson
Room 4058
C/O: Explorer
"Arrival Date " (either leave blank go to semesteratsea.com)
Port Agent Address
The addresses are as follows....
Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA
(You already missed your chance, it should have been sent by Jan 31)
MAURITIUS--- SEND BY FEB 11TH
Phone: 230 202 7040
Fax: 230 208 5814
Ireland Blyth, Ltd.1 Queen Street
P.O. 53 Port Louis, MAURITIUS
INDIA--- SEND BY FEB 23
Phone: 91 44 252 12032
Fax: 91 44 252 43813
J.M. Baxi & CO.
3rd Floor, Clive Battery Complex
4 & 4A, Rajaji Salai
Chennai-600 001, INDIA
MYANMAR--- SEND BY MAR 2
Phone: 95 1 256 913
Fax: 95 1 256 321
Myanmar Port Authority Sea Horse Agency
347/1st Floor
Mahabandoola Road
Kyauktada,Yangon, MYANMAR
VIETNAM--- SEND BY MAR 11
Phone: 84 8 823 1052
Fax: 84 8 824 2996
General Forwarding & Agency Co., Inc.5
th Fl. OSIC Bldg.
8 Nguyen Hue Avenue
Dist. 1,Ho Chi Minh City, VIETNAM
Hong Kong-- SEND BY MAR 20
Phone: 852 2746 7312
Fax: 852 2744 3240
Inchcape Shipping Services (Hong Kong) Ltd.
Units 1802-1805,18/FNo.
3 Lockhart RoadWanchai, HONG KONG
-ChinaPRC--- SEND BY MAR 24
Phone: 86 532 2653 332
Fax: 86 532 2655 752
Penavico Qingdao
21 Wuxia Road
Quingdao, 266002, P. R. CHINA
JAPAN--- SEND BY MAR 28
Phone: 34 94 424 2100
Fax: 34 94 424 0123
Inchcape Shipping ServicesKenryu Bldg.
Room 5026, Kaigan-dori, Chuo-ku KOBE-shi,
Hyogo-ken 6500024,
JAPAN
And I am not exactly sure why SAS included the port agents phone and fax numbers but I guess I wouldn't use them unless its an emergency...
I am in Brazil!
Hey everybody! I made to Brazil this morning! I went to a carnival school. It was so much fun. I danced and learned how to play a little bit on the drums. i am super excited to go the welcome reception tonight with all the local college students. And then at 2am I am going to leave for the airport to go to Rio. Woohoo! Anyway, I just wanted to let everyone know that I am sorry that I could update and repond to emails as the ship internet was super slow and i have already used over half of my minutes. There is an internet cafe right outship the port so I will do my best to make it back here before I depart from Brazil. Keep it real...
I SHAVED MY HEAD!!!!
Okay, not really. I didn’t shave my head but there were plenty of girls who did as we celebrated King Neptune’s Day today. We crossed the equator this morning at 3am (and lost another hour of sleep). At around 8am the entire ship was awoken to Neptune’s Parade of ship staff, dressed in bed sheets and faces painted, banging drums, pans and jingling bells. After rallying everyone on the 7th deck the transitional pollywog to shellback ceremony began. After being doused with fish guts, I jumped into the pool (by that time it was nasty with other’s salty fish guts). Upon exiting the pool I proceeded to Neptune’s court where I kissed a dead fish on the mouth and then kissed Neptune’s ring… then it was official! I am now a shellback (with my lovely locks intack). Then I got some prime equator-sun today as I shaved my friend, Q’s hair. There was fish guts and hair everywhere when all was said and done! Overall it was a good time, but the best part was having no class!
Jan 29th, 2006
I wish I had more to post, but I don’t want to bore everyone with the trivial details of ship life. It’s not too exciting, quite frankly. However, the ship will be passing the equator at 3am tomorrow, and consequently, we’ll be in a satellite shadow for anywhere from 6 hours to 2 days. I already tried to check my email (right after the announcement) and was unable to get on the internet. So most like when I post this it will be after the ‘blackout,’ whenever that maybe.
Last night I learned some Portuguese. While it was similar in written form to Spanish, there are many different dialects (even in Brazil) that absolutely slaughter the pronunciation. So pretty much I learned that no matter where I am, I won’t be able to understand nor speak any understandable Portuguese. Oh well! At least I tried…
The shipboard community has an environmentalist professor from Berkley who is absolutely amazing! He is advising the “Change the World” club on the ship. He is leading seminars on literally how to change the world through social change. He has study many social movements, although relating to environment, and believes he has developed a model of effective social action. I can’t get over how fascinated I am with this man’s charisma. Anyone who knows me personally knows that I am not really an activist of any type. But I figured it would hurt to learn how to lead a social movement, just in case the need every be. J There is another seminar tonight on how to discover your passions and dreams that I am looking forward to attending.
Also, before I get off the ship I am told that I need to see the movie, “City of God.” I know little about the movie other then it takes place in Brazil and it will make me scared to go to Rio. I guess we’ll see… Tomorrow is King Neptune’s Day.
Jan 29th, 2006
I wish I had more to post, but I don’t want to bore everyone with the trivial details of ship life. It’s not too exciting, quite frankly. However, the ship will be passing the equator at 3am tomorrow, and consequently, we’ll be in a satellite shadow for anywhere from 6 hours to 2 days. I already tried to check my email (right after the announcement) and was unable to get on the internet. So most like when I post this it will be after the ‘blackout,’ whenever that maybe.
Last night I learned some Portuguese. While it was similar in written form to Spanish, there are many different dialects (even in Brazil) that absolutely slaughter the pronunciation. So pretty much I learned that no matter where I am, I won’t be able to understand nor speak any understandable Portuguese. Oh well! At least I tried…
The shipboard community has an environmentalist professor from Berkley who is absolutely amazing! He is advising the “Change the World” club on the ship. He is leading seminars on literally how to change the world through social change. He has study many social movements, although relating to environment, and believes he has developed a model of effective social action. I can’t get over how fascinated I am with this man’s charisma. Anyone who knows me personally knows that I am not really an activist of any type. But I figured it would hurt to learn how to lead a social movement, just in case the need every be. J There is another seminar tonight on how to discover your passions and dreams that I am looking forward to attending.
Also, before I get off the ship I am told that I need to see the movie, “City of God.” I know little about the movie other then it takes place in Brazil and it will make me scared to go to Rio. I guess we’ll see… Tomorrow is King Neptune’s Day.
Monday, January 30, 2006
Jan 29th 2006
I wish I had more to post, but I don’t want to bore everyone with the trivial details of ship life. It’s not too exciting, quite frankly. However, the ship will be passing the equator at 3am tomorrow, and consequently, we’ll be in a satellite shadow for anywhere from 6 hours to 2 days. I already tried to check my email (right after the announcement) and was unable to get on the internet. So most like when I post this it will be after the ‘blackout,’ whenever that maybe.
Last night I learned some Portuguese. While it was similar in written form to Spanish, there are many different dialects (even in Brazil) that absolutely slaughter the pronunciation. So pretty much I learned that no matter where I am, I won’t be able to understand nor speak any understandable Portuguese. Oh well! At least I tried…
The shipboard community has an environmentalist professor from Berkley who is absolutely amazing! He is advising the “Change the World” club on the ship. He is leading seminars on literally how to change the world through social change. He has study many social movements, although relating to environment, and believes he has developed a model of effective social action. I can’t get over how fascinated I am with this man’s charisma. Anyone who knows me personally knows that I am not really an activist of any type. But I figured it would hurt to learn how to lead a social movement, just in case the need every be. J There is another seminar tonight on how to discover your passions and dreams that I am looking forward to attending.
Also, before I get off the ship I am told that I need to see the movie, “City of God.” I know little about the movie other then it takes place in Brazil and it will make me scared to go to Rio. I guess we’ll see… Tomorrow is King Neptune’s Day.
Last night I learned some Portuguese. While it was similar in written form to Spanish, there are many different dialects (even in Brazil) that absolutely slaughter the pronunciation. So pretty much I learned that no matter where I am, I won’t be able to understand nor speak any understandable Portuguese. Oh well! At least I tried…
The shipboard community has an environmentalist professor from Berkley who is absolutely amazing! He is advising the “Change the World” club on the ship. He is leading seminars on literally how to change the world through social change. He has study many social movements, although relating to environment, and believes he has developed a model of effective social action. I can’t get over how fascinated I am with this man’s charisma. Anyone who knows me personally knows that I am not really an activist of any type. But I figured it would hurt to learn how to lead a social movement, just in case the need every be. J There is another seminar tonight on how to discover your passions and dreams that I am looking forward to attending.
Also, before I get off the ship I am told that I need to see the movie, “City of God.” I know little about the movie other then it takes place in Brazil and it will make me scared to go to Rio. I guess we’ll see… Tomorrow is King Neptune’s Day.
Friday, January 27, 2006
The Wristbands are Off!
The ship is moving about twice as fast as it was on the way to San Juan, so the rocking and pitching is minimal (or at least feels that way). I have been wristband/medication free today and am doing okay.
Tonight was the activities fair. I signed up for a lot of different things: kickboxing, Pilates, volleyball, the fashion show, vicarious voyage (corresponding with elementary students), the extended family (meeting with the adult passengers), the ambassador club, and the dance club. Yeah, I know that is a lot of things but life on the ship is so boring, and I have been very unproductive. I am looking forward to have things to do other then reading and playing board games.
The food on the ship has been less then satisfactory lately. Everything seems to be tasteless. Everyday I have pasta and potatoes and a salad, and maybe the main meat dish if it looks edible. I am always hunger (I think b/c of all the carbs I eat), but I don’t want to eat at the snack bar and waste my money. It is definitely hit or miss in the dining room.
I booked my ticket for Rio de Janeiro in San Juan. So I have been reading up on it. I am super excited. Plus it is much cheaper then the Bahamas and Puerto Rico. Good thing, because I don’t want to run out of money before the end of the trip!
We are crossing the equator in two days, and with that comes King Neptune’s Day. No one really knows what to expect except for head shavings and fish guts… I guess we’ll see!
Tonight was the activities fair. I signed up for a lot of different things: kickboxing, Pilates, volleyball, the fashion show, vicarious voyage (corresponding with elementary students), the extended family (meeting with the adult passengers), the ambassador club, and the dance club. Yeah, I know that is a lot of things but life on the ship is so boring, and I have been very unproductive. I am looking forward to have things to do other then reading and playing board games.
The food on the ship has been less then satisfactory lately. Everything seems to be tasteless. Everyday I have pasta and potatoes and a salad, and maybe the main meat dish if it looks edible. I am always hunger (I think b/c of all the carbs I eat), but I don’t want to eat at the snack bar and waste my money. It is definitely hit or miss in the dining room.
I booked my ticket for Rio de Janeiro in San Juan. So I have been reading up on it. I am super excited. Plus it is much cheaper then the Bahamas and Puerto Rico. Good thing, because I don’t want to run out of money before the end of the trip!
We are crossing the equator in two days, and with that comes King Neptune’s Day. No one really knows what to expect except for head shavings and fish guts… I guess we’ll see!
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
My last days as a rica chica...
The original plan was to go to the rainforest and the bioluminescent bay yesterday. But after finding out that it would be a $200 taxi ride, we were all a little turned off by the idea. So then we decided to search out the local Costco, but again it was really far away. So we just head the opposite way of the tourist Old San Juan and went into “New” San Juan. It is a cute city, with the same latin flavor similar to Costa Rica, but definitely not as poor. We just walked the streets for good part of the afternoon, not really seeing anything in particular other then just “seeing real puertorriquenos” in their elements. We took the beach back to the ship. Although I did absolutely nothing, I didn’t feel like I wasted the day in anyway. I just experienced the daily hustle and bustle of the people of PR.
I was dragged to a very expensive Latin Asian fusion restaurant and spent way too much money (One of the guys I was dining with likes the whole ‘dining experience’ and is willing to pay like 4 times more then I am to dine… this could definitely be a problem in the future but we will see…) It was good by all means but far too above my taste buds: duck-something nachos and sushi (lobster and salmon). Ohh well! You only live once!
The girls and I went back to Senor Frogs for a bit, while the boys went and gambled at the Casino across the street. I met a guy from the Coast Guard who I ended up to talking to for quite awhile, while my friends “got friendly” with the natives. I was totally unaware of any military presence on the island since we were staying on the Navy Pier and there was no Navy present. When the boys came back, we headed to the Salsa bar we didn’t actually go into on my bday. The alley was like a house party. There were so many people hanging out in the alley! The bar was okay. I had fun, and I actually ended up salsa-ing with one of guys that worked on the ship in the dining room. It was kinda random but whatever.
My last day in PR was spent at la Isla Verde, which I guess it a famous beach. I was not impressed at all. It was just a hotel strip with planes flying overhead constantly, and dried algae-plant stuff all over the sand. I liked PR a lot better before I visited the beach, but at least now I know where not stay if I ever return to PR.
Finally thoughts: PR is very charming but after the first day of exploring I ran out of things to do. This would be a great vacation spot, but Old San Juan is catered to tourist, so in my opinion it voiding its own culture.
PS my room number 4058, so put that on the envelope when sending mail, which you all are required to do.
I was dragged to a very expensive Latin Asian fusion restaurant and spent way too much money (One of the guys I was dining with likes the whole ‘dining experience’ and is willing to pay like 4 times more then I am to dine… this could definitely be a problem in the future but we will see…) It was good by all means but far too above my taste buds: duck-something nachos and sushi (lobster and salmon). Ohh well! You only live once!
The girls and I went back to Senor Frogs for a bit, while the boys went and gambled at the Casino across the street. I met a guy from the Coast Guard who I ended up to talking to for quite awhile, while my friends “got friendly” with the natives. I was totally unaware of any military presence on the island since we were staying on the Navy Pier and there was no Navy present. When the boys came back, we headed to the Salsa bar we didn’t actually go into on my bday. The alley was like a house party. There were so many people hanging out in the alley! The bar was okay. I had fun, and I actually ended up salsa-ing with one of guys that worked on the ship in the dining room. It was kinda random but whatever.
My last day in PR was spent at la Isla Verde, which I guess it a famous beach. I was not impressed at all. It was just a hotel strip with planes flying overhead constantly, and dried algae-plant stuff all over the sand. I liked PR a lot better before I visited the beach, but at least now I know where not stay if I ever return to PR.
Finally thoughts: PR is very charming but after the first day of exploring I ran out of things to do. This would be a great vacation spot, but Old San Juan is catered to tourist, so in my opinion it voiding its own culture.
PS my room number 4058, so put that on the envelope when sending mail, which you all are required to do.
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Cumpleanos en Puerto Rico!
As many of you know, it was my birthday yesterday. Luckily I found some cool people to travel with and go out with that night, so it didn’t suck as much as I thought it would… it was actually better then some of my last few bdays in the states… So what exactly did I do yesterday?
The port docked kinda late. Customs officials insisted on meeting with us face to face and no one could get off until everyone did. After waiting and waiting we were allowed to disembark around 11 am. During all this, the Secretary of State (of Puerto Rico) came and made a speech. I met him afterwards and he was a very nice man.
I am beginning to think that SAS is a super cheap-wad. Because first of all, it should have only taken us about a day and a half to get to PR (but I am guessing that in order to save fuel and docking fees it took us 4). Then when we got here, they announced that instead of staying at the beautiful, nice ports, we’re going to be docking at the Navy Frontier Pier. This Pier is about a mile and a half from Old San Juan and in the seedy part of town. It is all but impossible to walk at night, so a taxi ride is a must.
Anyway, after we disembarked, I met up with my new friends; Danielle, Janelle, Jessy, and Richard. We walked into Old San Juan which was about 25 minutes away and stopped a bank. The bank didn’t charge me anything for withdrawing cash which I found amazing! We found this little shop selling fried Puerto Rican “delicacies.” I bought a fried chicken burrito. It was good but greasy. We adventured on, with no plan, and came a crossed “Castillo de San Cristobal,” which is this huge fortification. It was super cool. From there we could see the famed “El Morro,” the even bigger, older fortification. We headed over there to find an even more incredible fort.
Since we’re on the tip on the peninsula, we headed back to Old San Juan. We passed Casa Blanca, but it was closed (b/c it was Monday) along with some other museums and art galleries, I had wanted to check out. We asked a police officer where he eats and he directed us to this small restaurant. I order some phenomenal cube steak with yellow rice and black beans (arroz congri) and some homemade sangria. It was so good.
After fueling our bellies we did some shopping. I didn’t buy anything because all of this ”stuff” didn’t really seem very Puerto Rican (it just said “PR” on it). I have seen all of these nic-nacks in Mexico, Costa Rica and even in the Bahamas.
Fast-Forwarding to the “la noche,” Jessy, Rich, Sarah and I head out for dinner to this very posh looking restaurant. I had an amazing meal of red chicken curry on a bed of spaghetti. We then walked around looking for a bar to frequent, but apparently there was a huge festival in the streets for the last four days (it ended Sunday), so most everything was closed. Some Puerto Rican students (that knew we were coming) had organized live salsa, bomba, and plena music for us at a bar. But when we went by, the band was not there yet and there was a cover. We headed to Senor Frogs (yuck!) to fill in the time. It was fun but really crowded, so we left after an hour and headed back to the salsa music. By then, the bar was over capacity full, so we just hung out outside in this ally. It sounds really creepy but it was cool. We met some nice PR students and salsa danced in the alley. We’ll probably head there tonite…
PS I will post lots of pictures when I get to the boat!
The port docked kinda late. Customs officials insisted on meeting with us face to face and no one could get off until everyone did. After waiting and waiting we were allowed to disembark around 11 am. During all this, the Secretary of State (of Puerto Rico) came and made a speech. I met him afterwards and he was a very nice man.
I am beginning to think that SAS is a super cheap-wad. Because first of all, it should have only taken us about a day and a half to get to PR (but I am guessing that in order to save fuel and docking fees it took us 4). Then when we got here, they announced that instead of staying at the beautiful, nice ports, we’re going to be docking at the Navy Frontier Pier. This Pier is about a mile and a half from Old San Juan and in the seedy part of town. It is all but impossible to walk at night, so a taxi ride is a must.
Anyway, after we disembarked, I met up with my new friends; Danielle, Janelle, Jessy, and Richard. We walked into Old San Juan which was about 25 minutes away and stopped a bank. The bank didn’t charge me anything for withdrawing cash which I found amazing! We found this little shop selling fried Puerto Rican “delicacies.” I bought a fried chicken burrito. It was good but greasy. We adventured on, with no plan, and came a crossed “Castillo de San Cristobal,” which is this huge fortification. It was super cool. From there we could see the famed “El Morro,” the even bigger, older fortification. We headed over there to find an even more incredible fort.
Since we’re on the tip on the peninsula, we headed back to Old San Juan. We passed Casa Blanca, but it was closed (b/c it was Monday) along with some other museums and art galleries, I had wanted to check out. We asked a police officer where he eats and he directed us to this small restaurant. I order some phenomenal cube steak with yellow rice and black beans (arroz congri) and some homemade sangria. It was so good.
After fueling our bellies we did some shopping. I didn’t buy anything because all of this ”stuff” didn’t really seem very Puerto Rican (it just said “PR” on it). I have seen all of these nic-nacks in Mexico, Costa Rica and even in the Bahamas.
Fast-Forwarding to the “la noche,” Jessy, Rich, Sarah and I head out for dinner to this very posh looking restaurant. I had an amazing meal of red chicken curry on a bed of spaghetti. We then walked around looking for a bar to frequent, but apparently there was a huge festival in the streets for the last four days (it ended Sunday), so most everything was closed. Some Puerto Rican students (that knew we were coming) had organized live salsa, bomba, and plena music for us at a bar. But when we went by, the band was not there yet and there was a cover. We headed to Senor Frogs (yuck!) to fill in the time. It was fun but really crowded, so we left after an hour and headed back to the salsa music. By then, the bar was over capacity full, so we just hung out outside in this ally. It sounds really creepy but it was cool. We met some nice PR students and salsa danced in the alley. We’ll probably head there tonite…
PS I will post lots of pictures when I get to the boat!
Saturday, January 21, 2006
First day of classes...
The waves were so rough last night and this morning. I skipped breakfast to see if there really was a need for me to get up and go. I now know there is. I was getting so sea sick this morning even with my wrist bands that I have been sporting. So I don’t think I will be making that mistake again…
I had a good night last night and met so really cool people. I even had my first date on the ship with two gentlemen. Now before Mario freaks out, this was purely a plutonic date which involved going to the 7th deck’s exercise room at 11:30pm (it was the earliest time there was an elipitical machine available) and then proceeding to the weight deck. Let me tell you it is quite a nauseating challenge to peddle on a rocking ship. It’s even harder trying to keep your balance while lifting and stretching. I have another date schedule for tonite at 9pm…
I had my first day of class. The global studies class is everyday and the other 4 that I have are split between two each day. Today I had International Trade Theory and History of Economic Thought in addition to GS. I already have reading homework L but we were asked to work on a purchasing power parity project when were in port. (In this PPP project we will see how much the same items cost in each country. We’ll collect info on McDonald’s big Macs and other items, and compare the differences.)
It was 77degrees out today so I just had to lay out while attempting to read my econ book. It was so nice although a little windy.
I found some people to hangout with in PR and there going to take me out for my bday on Monday. In PR I am thinking about exploring San Juan and el Morro, and possibly going to the rainforest, and for sure go to the bioluminescent bay.
I will definitely try to find an internet café in port so I won’t be posting anything tomorrow. Feel free to email me, b/c I am more likely to answer you in port then with the $.40 a minute onship internet.
I had a good night last night and met so really cool people. I even had my first date on the ship with two gentlemen. Now before Mario freaks out, this was purely a plutonic date which involved going to the 7th deck’s exercise room at 11:30pm (it was the earliest time there was an elipitical machine available) and then proceeding to the weight deck. Let me tell you it is quite a nauseating challenge to peddle on a rocking ship. It’s even harder trying to keep your balance while lifting and stretching. I have another date schedule for tonite at 9pm…
I had my first day of class. The global studies class is everyday and the other 4 that I have are split between two each day. Today I had International Trade Theory and History of Economic Thought in addition to GS. I already have reading homework L but we were asked to work on a purchasing power parity project when were in port. (In this PPP project we will see how much the same items cost in each country. We’ll collect info on McDonald’s big Macs and other items, and compare the differences.)
It was 77degrees out today so I just had to lay out while attempting to read my econ book. It was so nice although a little windy.
I found some people to hangout with in PR and there going to take me out for my bday on Monday. In PR I am thinking about exploring San Juan and el Morro, and possibly going to the rainforest, and for sure go to the bioluminescent bay.
I will definitely try to find an internet café in port so I won’t be posting anything tomorrow. Feel free to email me, b/c I am more likely to answer you in port then with the $.40 a minute onship internet.
Friday, January 20, 2006
The ship...
“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeing new landscapes, but in having new eyes.” –Marcel Proust
Morning:
Its’ kinda hard to describe how I feel right now other then just blah… I don’t really feel like meeting people or learning anyone’s name. This ship is huge and I am always getting turned around and lost. I don’t know where anything is… I can’t wait to get out of this funk…
I met my roommate yesterday. Her name is Sarah and is super nice. I think I am going to like living with her and won’t have any problems. She didn’t prepare much to come on the ship and when she saw me unpack all my “just in case” things she said she was glad that I was her roommate.
Yesterday, I arrived at the port at 10:30 with a girl that I had met the night before. Somehow we managed to put 4 large filled-to-capacity suitcases, a rolling carry-on, a duffel bag, and a large duffel bag in the back of tiny Suzuki that I had rented. I was so tired from my late night out which included my first apple martini. I definitely drank too much but I am glad I got that out of my system in a rather safe country. Being on the ship now, not being able to stand or walk straight, reminds me exactly of what I will now refer to as the “martini” night.
But anyway, we ended up standing in line for 3 hours! It was so ridiculous! I made a Starbucks run after awhile for some frappacinos and food once my stomach settled down from the night before. The only good thing about yesterday was that I did get some sun on my shoulders… but I am pretty sure I was darker before I came to the Bahamas then I am now!
Today after waking up at 8:30, Sarah and I went to breakfast and then to the faculty introductions meeting. I did get a chance to meet the Econ professor and he said it was fine to sign up for his third class, which is the only one that I will count towards my degree back home, asides from the ones that I am already taking. So that worked out well!
I have more meetings this afternoon and tonight. Hopefully I will be in better and more adventurous mood. Guess we’ll see!
Dinner Time:
I met some more people and am feeling a little more comfortable. We are going to have dinner together later. I even found some traveling partners for Puerto Rico. I am beginning to feel better about all of this…
Morning:
Its’ kinda hard to describe how I feel right now other then just blah… I don’t really feel like meeting people or learning anyone’s name. This ship is huge and I am always getting turned around and lost. I don’t know where anything is… I can’t wait to get out of this funk…
I met my roommate yesterday. Her name is Sarah and is super nice. I think I am going to like living with her and won’t have any problems. She didn’t prepare much to come on the ship and when she saw me unpack all my “just in case” things she said she was glad that I was her roommate.
Yesterday, I arrived at the port at 10:30 with a girl that I had met the night before. Somehow we managed to put 4 large filled-to-capacity suitcases, a rolling carry-on, a duffel bag, and a large duffel bag in the back of tiny Suzuki that I had rented. I was so tired from my late night out which included my first apple martini. I definitely drank too much but I am glad I got that out of my system in a rather safe country. Being on the ship now, not being able to stand or walk straight, reminds me exactly of what I will now refer to as the “martini” night.
But anyway, we ended up standing in line for 3 hours! It was so ridiculous! I made a Starbucks run after awhile for some frappacinos and food once my stomach settled down from the night before. The only good thing about yesterday was that I did get some sun on my shoulders… but I am pretty sure I was darker before I came to the Bahamas then I am now!
Today after waking up at 8:30, Sarah and I went to breakfast and then to the faculty introductions meeting. I did get a chance to meet the Econ professor and he said it was fine to sign up for his third class, which is the only one that I will count towards my degree back home, asides from the ones that I am already taking. So that worked out well!
I have more meetings this afternoon and tonight. Hopefully I will be in better and more adventurous mood. Guess we’ll see!
Dinner Time:
I met some more people and am feeling a little more comfortable. We are going to have dinner together later. I even found some traveling partners for Puerto Rico. I am beginning to feel better about all of this…
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Last night as a Bahama Mama...
To make a long story short I did absolutely nothing exciting today. When I put my suit on this morning to bask in the Bahamas sun, there was an instant down pour. I was able to go out later for an hour in the overcast, windy, and humid weather. Ohh well...
Before I had to drop my dad off at the parent's reception he wanted to go the fish market. The market is located underneath the bridge to get off Paradise Island. It smelled absolutely horrible! It was cool but smelly. I forgot my camera so I couldn't take any pictures of the little shacks and stands. We found "The burning spot" still open and ready to serve us dinner. We order up so conch fritter, fried conch and peas-n-rice (which are actually beans and rice). For less the $10 we ate to the breaking point and had the best sea food on island! It was way better then the poop deck! Only time will tell if I get food poisoning from the possible unsanitary conditions that probably prevailed behind the counter.
Tonight my computer will be getting packed so this is where I say good bye to the Bahamas and my "vacation". When I get all settled in on the ship I will post again but I can't really say when that will be... Everyone take care and I'll talk to you soon!
Before I had to drop my dad off at the parent's reception he wanted to go the fish market. The market is located underneath the bridge to get off Paradise Island. It smelled absolutely horrible! It was cool but smelly. I forgot my camera so I couldn't take any pictures of the little shacks and stands. We found "The burning spot" still open and ready to serve us dinner. We order up so conch fritter, fried conch and peas-n-rice (which are actually beans and rice). For less the $10 we ate to the breaking point and had the best sea food on island! It was way better then the poop deck! Only time will tell if I get food poisoning from the possible unsanitary conditions that probably prevailed behind the counter.
Tonight my computer will be getting packed so this is where I say good bye to the Bahamas and my "vacation". When I get all settled in on the ship I will post again but I can't really say when that will be... Everyone take care and I'll talk to you soon!
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
"Flying Cloud"
One of my biggest accomplishments today was finding the pool and beach. Around 10am I went to investigate the pool for a possible lay-out area. The wind was really whipping around by the pool so I headed to the beach to find a "more calm" wind. I choose a beach chair and oiled up for the next hour while listening to my ipod for one of the first times on this entire trip. I didn't want to stay out too long in the sun b/c my dad had booked us a 2pm Catamaran ride on the "flying cloud." A bus came and picked us up around 12:30 and we headed over to Paradise Island to catch the boat. We were really early so we had a lot of time to do some shopping and people watching. My dad brought along my binoculars that I got for Christmas from Ryan and Lauren and spyed on people on their boats... it was kinda funny.
But anyway, we hopped on the boat at two and basked in the sun although once again it was windy. The boat headed out to the unhabitated Rose Island about 8 miles off the coast of Providence Island (the main island where I am staying). There were actually alot of other tours going on around the area and on the island so it was by no means seculded. Since no one wanted to get off at the island, the boat anchored just off a coral reef and everyone went snorkeling. I saw some fish and a sting ray but over all I wasn't very impressed. And the water was cold :-(
I cut my snorkel time short and got back on the boat, only to meet a girl who is going on SAS. Yeah! I now know 2 people! Its a start I guess.. She was really cool and I hope to meet more people like her on the ship!
Once my dad and I got back to the hotel, we headed to dinner at the "Poop Deck." My dad had had it recomended so he thought he would splurge and take me there. I ordered the Conch Chowder, my dad ordered the Conch Fritters and the Sea Food Platter (conch, shrimp, peas and rice, slaw, and grouper) to share. The seafood was much better the seafood we had a few days ago. Overall it was very good.
Tomorrow is my last day in the Nassau, and I am really looking foward to getting on the ship. I don't have anything planned, although my dad is going to go diving. I just want to lounge around and meet some people. Maybe I'll take the car for one last joy ride...
PS Leave me comments on this page if you want (they get sent directly to my email) or just email me... plus it will let me know who is reading my blog. I'd love to hear from you all!
But anyway, we hopped on the boat at two and basked in the sun although once again it was windy. The boat headed out to the unhabitated Rose Island about 8 miles off the coast of Providence Island (the main island where I am staying). There were actually alot of other tours going on around the area and on the island so it was by no means seculded. Since no one wanted to get off at the island, the boat anchored just off a coral reef and everyone went snorkeling. I saw some fish and a sting ray but over all I wasn't very impressed. And the water was cold :-(
I cut my snorkel time short and got back on the boat, only to meet a girl who is going on SAS. Yeah! I now know 2 people! Its a start I guess.. She was really cool and I hope to meet more people like her on the ship!
Once my dad and I got back to the hotel, we headed to dinner at the "Poop Deck." My dad had had it recomended so he thought he would splurge and take me there. I ordered the Conch Chowder, my dad ordered the Conch Fritters and the Sea Food Platter (conch, shrimp, peas and rice, slaw, and grouper) to share. The seafood was much better the seafood we had a few days ago. Overall it was very good.
Tomorrow is my last day in the Nassau, and I am really looking foward to getting on the ship. I don't have anything planned, although my dad is going to go diving. I just want to lounge around and meet some people. Maybe I'll take the car for one last joy ride...
PS Leave me comments on this page if you want (they get sent directly to my email) or just email me... plus it will let me know who is reading my blog. I'd love to hear from you all!
Monday, January 16, 2006
My dad woke me up early this morning b/c we're suppose to rent bikes and bike to the south island (which is on the opposite side of the island). I was actually enthuased about this idea becuase we were also going to stop at the Bacardi Distillary. But once we went across the street to rent the bikes we discovered thatm they didn't rent bicycles, they only rented scooters. Now had we been in the states I may have actually considered this option. But they drive crazy in the Bahamas (think Mexico...) and on the left side. I figured that I already beat the odds just by getting to the Bahamas and I really did want to get on the boat... alive. So then we thought of renting a car, so after a few calls we found an "economy" car priced right for 3 days. What we got was a tiny, tiny Suszuki whatever (reminds me of Mario's old civic). But anyway, they actually rented it to me(your suppose to be 25), since I have the AMEX (shout out to my cash-back costco-amex card w/ free accident insurance) and I therefore became the chauffer for the day. Driving on left is actually a lot easier then I ever imagined. I don't know if its b/c I normally don't drive on my side of the road back home or if I just adapted quickly... but turns still freak me out and the "give way" signs (I don't know which way to give way) but I think I am getting the hang of it.
The Barcardi Distillary was so cool. We took a tour with a young couple from Australia and an older couple from NY who all evidently stay at our hotel...?... I learned so many interesting facts i wish I would have taken notes. For instances, all the rum ages at least two years in "used" barrels that are bought from other spirit makers like Jack Daniels. The dark color comes from the barrels (because they are orginally charred inside). Before entering the storage warehouse we were warned to enter at our own risks, becuase you can get contact buzz from inhaling the alcohol fumes in the air... the rum in the barrels is either 191 or 178 proof (they add water and flavors later on).
After the tour we were invited to their bar where we're able to try any and all of the products that we wished. I only had a daquier because I was driving (and had gone into the warehouse). Then we were able to go into the gift store and buy barcardi at "Factory" prices. But sadly I can't bring any on the ship so I couldn't really buy anything to bring home :-( Good thing I don't like rum...
And finally, my dad and I found a small public beach called "Jaw's Beach" and went snorkeling. We didn't see anything terrible exciting b/c my dad was experience techincal difficulties and had to cut our trip to the reef short. Ohh well... I hear Puerto Rico has phenomial coral reefs.
The Barcardi Distillary was so cool. We took a tour with a young couple from Australia and an older couple from NY who all evidently stay at our hotel...?... I learned so many interesting facts i wish I would have taken notes. For instances, all the rum ages at least two years in "used" barrels that are bought from other spirit makers like Jack Daniels. The dark color comes from the barrels (because they are orginally charred inside). Before entering the storage warehouse we were warned to enter at our own risks, becuase you can get contact buzz from inhaling the alcohol fumes in the air... the rum in the barrels is either 191 or 178 proof (they add water and flavors later on).
After the tour we were invited to their bar where we're able to try any and all of the products that we wished. I only had a daquier because I was driving (and had gone into the warehouse). Then we were able to go into the gift store and buy barcardi at "Factory" prices. But sadly I can't bring any on the ship so I couldn't really buy anything to bring home :-( Good thing I don't like rum...
And finally, my dad and I found a small public beach called "Jaw's Beach" and went snorkeling. We didn't see anything terrible exciting b/c my dad was experience techincal difficulties and had to cut our trip to the reef short. Ohh well... I hear Puerto Rico has phenomial coral reefs.
Getting to the Bahamas...
This is what my computer wouldn't let me post yesterday or the first day I was here....
Well I made it to the Bahamas! I checked in to the Nassau Beach Hotel room 302. I am glad that my dad and I made it because the trip here was interesting. Not only did we get into many wrong lines, had “weapons” confiscated from us, every flight was delayed, but I also managed to turn a suitcase into a fly projectile that nearly took out my dad. I was so exhausted when I got in the car at 4:30 this morning but had a very uncomfortable sleep/ride in the Jetta. I managed to pass out on the plane to DC without laying on either of the two gentleman sitting next to me (or maybe I did and didn’t realize it while I was asleep). When we finally arrived to DC, we realized that our tickets for the Bahamas had no gate number on them, and we had less then a half hour before departure. But we obviously found the gate, and I don’t remember any of the flight, because once again I passed out. But anyway I am here now, and the internet is super expensive, so I am going to buy a three day unlimited pass, so I may be able to do a little more email and/or posting then I will in the future.
Well I made it to the Bahamas! I checked in to the Nassau Beach Hotel room 302. I am glad that my dad and I made it because the trip here was interesting. Not only did we get into many wrong lines, had “weapons” confiscated from us, every flight was delayed, but I also managed to turn a suitcase into a fly projectile that nearly took out my dad. I was so exhausted when I got in the car at 4:30 this morning but had a very uncomfortable sleep/ride in the Jetta. I managed to pass out on the plane to DC without laying on either of the two gentleman sitting next to me (or maybe I did and didn’t realize it while I was asleep). When we finally arrived to DC, we realized that our tickets for the Bahamas had no gate number on them, and we had less then a half hour before departure. But we obviously found the gate, and I don’t remember any of the flight, because once again I passed out. But anyway I am here now, and the internet is super expensive, so I am going to buy a three day unlimited pass, so I may be able to do a little more email and/or posting then I will in the future.
Sunday, January 15, 2006
Bahamas!!!
My computer is acting totally crazy and I think it may have a break down soon. Pray for it please! I had something already written from yesterday but the internet was down in my room. The Bahamas is really cute... the people in general are really nice, polite, and beautiful. I ran into some "problems" on the way down here, and hopefully when my computer starts acting right I will be able to post some of what happened!
Anyway, my dad and I went to church today and it was really nice. The "MV Explorer" is in the habour. I missed the deadline to sign my dad up for the onboard reception...opps... I am trying to get ahold of someone to put him on "the list". So far it has been really relaxed and I feel like I have done absolutely nothing. I haven't even been to the pool yet! It was only 70 degrees and really windy today. I vow to make it to the beach tomorrow.
I have only taken two pictures, one of the ship in port and another of our bus driver's ID, who's first name is Prince and try to guess what his middle name is...Albert. I about rolled on the floor with laughter when I saw it hanging from the visor! Peace out!
Anyway, my dad and I went to church today and it was really nice. The "MV Explorer" is in the habour. I missed the deadline to sign my dad up for the onboard reception...opps... I am trying to get ahold of someone to put him on "the list". So far it has been really relaxed and I feel like I have done absolutely nothing. I haven't even been to the pool yet! It was only 70 degrees and really windy today. I vow to make it to the beach tomorrow.
I have only taken two pictures, one of the ship in port and another of our bus driver's ID, who's first name is Prince and try to guess what his middle name is...Albert. I about rolled on the floor with laughter when I saw it hanging from the visor! Peace out!
Friday, January 13, 2006
Thursday, January 12, 2006
One more day in Michigan....
Ohh my goodness!!! My last day of work was on Tuesday and I so wish it would have been last week because I am freakin' out! I have so many odds and ends to do plus pack what will sustain me for the next four months... its a little bit of pressure! I cannot even comprehend that in thirty hours from now I will be on way to the airport. It seems so unreal.
Yesterday I starting getting these waves of anixiety and panic and at other times I get emotional and almost tear up at the thought of leaving. I never thought I would feel this way... I know that I will be missing a lot while I am gone like the people from work, my sister and her senior year (and volleyball season), my parents and grandmas, but mainly my boyfriend. He is not doing so well, he is totally bummed. I feel absolutely horrible that I am putting him through this, but then again if he didn't "let" me go and do my own thing, I don't think I would be with him anyway. He is the greatest boyfriend of all time... I just wanted to throw that out there!
Today my bestest friends Caroline and Russel took me out for Lunch at Applebees and then desert at Fridays. We headed to the mall and did some last minute "necessary" shopping at Victoria's secret, the Sunglass hut and Aeropostale. Whatever- it was fun. Tonight I am at Mario's downloading the 2000+ songs he has on his computer to my IPod, so I am pretty sure I will be here untill the wee hours of the morning!
So tomorrow should be even busier then today, but at least once I get it over with I am done and outta here.
Peace out for now!
Yesterday I starting getting these waves of anixiety and panic and at other times I get emotional and almost tear up at the thought of leaving. I never thought I would feel this way... I know that I will be missing a lot while I am gone like the people from work, my sister and her senior year (and volleyball season), my parents and grandmas, but mainly my boyfriend. He is not doing so well, he is totally bummed. I feel absolutely horrible that I am putting him through this, but then again if he didn't "let" me go and do my own thing, I don't think I would be with him anyway. He is the greatest boyfriend of all time... I just wanted to throw that out there!
Today my bestest friends Caroline and Russel took me out for Lunch at Applebees and then desert at Fridays. We headed to the mall and did some last minute "necessary" shopping at Victoria's secret, the Sunglass hut and Aeropostale. Whatever- it was fun. Tonight I am at Mario's downloading the 2000+ songs he has on his computer to my IPod, so I am pretty sure I will be here untill the wee hours of the morning!
So tomorrow should be even busier then today, but at least once I get it over with I am done and outta here.
Peace out for now!
Thursday, December 29, 2005
Its all a blurr....
The days are whizzing by. I always thought my life moved pretty quickly as I went from school to work, to meetings, to working out, to see my boyfriend, to going out with friends. But the past week has a much different feel. Even though I feel like I am on vacation (because I'm not going to school, but am working at least 6 days... somehow this is a vacation to my sick mind), the days seem like they will have an inevitable end. And I guess the days are coming to end (at least the ones in Michigan). I am so excited to be leaving but am starting to consider the serious possibility that I may experience some homesickness or perhaps, *gasp*, some sadness. The thought of only having two weeks left before I leave is almost gloomy... but then again maybe because it isn't negative 10 degrees and the snow has actually melted outside. We're suppose to get another storm tomorrow so, I let you know how I feel after that.
I am beginning to wonder what I am really expecting to get out of this trip, and how I will be different once I get back. My prediction is that I will be wierder, if that is possible, once I get back. How can you possible go to so many countries and have so many experiences and not come back a little strange? I have a feeling that my tolerance for handling peoples' egotistical, ethnocentric bull shit will probably be the first to go... but we'll see!
I am beginning to wonder what I am really expecting to get out of this trip, and how I will be different once I get back. My prediction is that I will be wierder, if that is possible, once I get back. How can you possible go to so many countries and have so many experiences and not come back a little strange? I have a feeling that my tolerance for handling peoples' egotistical, ethnocentric bull shit will probably be the first to go... but we'll see!
Monday, December 19, 2005
30 Days to Take Off....
Today is Dec. 19 and I will be begining the most amazing journey of my life on Jan 19, 2006... One month from now. I am so f-ing excited!! I do want to explain to everyone the process on how to send me mail and/or packages. It is suggested that you send all leters airmail. If you send a small packages make sure there is nothing very valuable in it... their is no guaranty. I would absolutely love to recieve mail, so if you send me mail I will drop you a postcard. That goes for anybody!
Address like this:
Janine Wilson
C/O: Explorer
"Arrival Date "
Port Agent Address
The addresses are as follows....
Puerto Rico SEND BY JAN 9TH
Phone: 787-982-8888
Fax: 787-982-8890
Cruise Plus Service & Sales
1760 Fernandez Juncos Avenue
San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00909
HINT, HINT, HINT: My Birthday is on the 23th of January (so send cards by the 9th if possible)!!!
BRAZIL SEND BY JAN 18
Phone: 55 71 241 4990
Fax: 55 71 243 5633
Oceanus Agencia Maritima
Av. Estados Unidos, 555
7th Floor/Room 712
40015-010 Salvador, BAHIA-BRASIL
SOUTH AFRICA--- SEND BY JAN 31TH
Phone: 27 21 419 8660
Fax: 27 21 421 6984
John T. Rennie & Sons
P.O. Box 7021 Thibault House
8000 Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA
MAURITIUS--- SEND BY FEB 11TH
Phone: 230 202 7040
Fax: 230 208 5814
Ireland Blyth, Ltd.
1 Queen Street
P.O. 53 Port Louis, MAURITIUS
INDIA--- SEND BY FEB 23
Phone: 91 44 252 12032
Fax: 91 44 252 43813
J.M. Baxi & CO.
3rd Floor, Clive Battery Complex
4 & 4A, Rajaji Salai
Chennai-600 001, INDIA
MYANMAR--- SEND BY MAR 2
Phone: 95 1 256 913
Fax: 95 1 256 321
Myanmar Port Authority Sea Horse Agency
347/1st Floor
Mahabandoola RoadKyauktada,
Yangon, MYANMAR
VIETNAM--- SEND BY MAR 11
Phone: 84 8 823 1052
Fax: 84 8 824 2996
General Forwarding & Agency Co., Inc.
5th Fl. OSIC Bldg.
8 Nguyen Hue AvenueDist. 1,
Ho Chi Minh City, VIETNAM
Hong Kong-- SEND BY MAR 20
Phone: 852 2746 7312
Fax: 852 2744 3240
Inchcape Shipping Services (Hong Kong) Ltd.
Units 1802-1805,18/FNo.
3 Lockhart Road
Wanchai, HONG KONG-China
PRC--- SEND BY MAR 24
Phone: 86 532 2653 332
Fax: 86 532 2655 752
Penavico Qingdao
21 Wuxia Road
Quingdao, 266002, P. R. CHINA
JAPAN--- SEND BY MAR 28
Phone: 34 94 424 2100
Fax: 34 94 424 0123
Inchcape Shipping Services
Kenryu Bldg. Room 502
6, Kaigan-dori, Chuo-ku KOBE-shi, Hyogo-ken 650
0024, JAPAN
And I am not exactly sure why SAS included the port agents phone and fax numbers but I guess I wouldn't use them unless its an emergency...
Haven't heard any new news from MTV but I guess that is expected. All right keep real. Out.
Address like this:
Janine Wilson
C/O: Explorer
"Arrival Date "
Port Agent Address
The addresses are as follows....
Puerto Rico SEND BY JAN 9TH
Phone: 787-982-8888
Fax: 787-982-8890
Cruise Plus Service & Sales
1760 Fernandez Juncos Avenue
San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00909
HINT, HINT, HINT: My Birthday is on the 23th of January (so send cards by the 9th if possible)!!!
BRAZIL SEND BY JAN 18
Phone: 55 71 241 4990
Fax: 55 71 243 5633
Oceanus Agencia Maritima
Av. Estados Unidos, 555
7th Floor/Room 712
40015-010 Salvador, BAHIA-BRASIL
SOUTH AFRICA--- SEND BY JAN 31TH
Phone: 27 21 419 8660
Fax: 27 21 421 6984
John T. Rennie & Sons
P.O. Box 7021 Thibault House
8000 Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA
MAURITIUS--- SEND BY FEB 11TH
Phone: 230 202 7040
Fax: 230 208 5814
Ireland Blyth, Ltd.
1 Queen Street
P.O. 53 Port Louis, MAURITIUS
INDIA--- SEND BY FEB 23
Phone: 91 44 252 12032
Fax: 91 44 252 43813
J.M. Baxi & CO.
3rd Floor, Clive Battery Complex
4 & 4A, Rajaji Salai
Chennai-600 001, INDIA
MYANMAR--- SEND BY MAR 2
Phone: 95 1 256 913
Fax: 95 1 256 321
Myanmar Port Authority Sea Horse Agency
347/1st Floor
Mahabandoola RoadKyauktada,
Yangon, MYANMAR
VIETNAM--- SEND BY MAR 11
Phone: 84 8 823 1052
Fax: 84 8 824 2996
General Forwarding & Agency Co., Inc.
5th Fl. OSIC Bldg.
8 Nguyen Hue AvenueDist. 1,
Ho Chi Minh City, VIETNAM
Hong Kong-- SEND BY MAR 20
Phone: 852 2746 7312
Fax: 852 2744 3240
Inchcape Shipping Services (Hong Kong) Ltd.
Units 1802-1805,18/FNo.
3 Lockhart Road
Wanchai, HONG KONG-China
PRC--- SEND BY MAR 24
Phone: 86 532 2653 332
Fax: 86 532 2655 752
Penavico Qingdao
21 Wuxia Road
Quingdao, 266002, P. R. CHINA
JAPAN--- SEND BY MAR 28
Phone: 34 94 424 2100
Fax: 34 94 424 0123
Inchcape Shipping Services
Kenryu Bldg. Room 502
6, Kaigan-dori, Chuo-ku KOBE-shi, Hyogo-ken 650
0024, JAPAN
And I am not exactly sure why SAS included the port agents phone and fax numbers but I guess I wouldn't use them unless its an emergency...
Haven't heard any new news from MTV but I guess that is expected. All right keep real. Out.
Friday, December 16, 2005
All Done!!!
Thats it I am done with the semester!! Holla!! Finally, now I can really concentrate on getting my act together and getting to the Bahamas. Latest news: MTV is considering doing a True Life Documentary on some of the students going on SAS. How cool would that be? Someone could share their entire experience with thousands of people around the world. Granted it is highly unlikely that this will happen because of the short notice, but it would be so awesome!! It would make this blog look like nothing... But we will see what happens. I still have to figure out how to upload a picture to my bio section, I tried and I ended up getting the photo below on a regular post... ohh well... I guess you all can enjoy my face from this side of the webpage... Well peace out for now, I am about to do something I haven't done much in the last two weeks...SLEEP!
I am great self photographer!!
I am great self photographer!!
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Map of Destination
These are the countries that I will be traveling to and in: Bahamas, Puerto Rico, Brazil, South Africa, Mauritius, India, Myanmar (Burma), Vietnam, Cambodia, Hong Kong, China, Japan (and then Mexico when I return to San Diego in April).
Its coming....
So I finally pinned my dad down into making some decisions about out trip to the Bahamas. After all the trouble and hard thinking he did, he decided he did indeed wanted to go the San Salvador, regaurdless of cost. So, exuberantly I emailed the resort only to find out they have no room available that week... ~roll eyes~ but then again what do you expect. Then after creating an itinerary for flights and the Hotel in Nassua, but not booking it, the price went up. ~roll eyes~ of course it would. But it all is done now. And the etickets are in hand. phew! Now I just have to select which trips I want to do w/ SAS, and get the Malaria pills and the medical release and I am home free... I cannot wait to get on that boat!
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