Saturday, 30 November 2013
A song with many titles (Written in Cracow)
A Song with many titles
Thinking back to the moment it starts
And where we will see each other again
Some things will remain in my heart,
and I did not wish to part, wondering why
I rolled the dice, from that spark ignites
As the days go by, beauty may wither to the sight
but only grows in the mind.
From the magic moment of the first kiss
To the tragic inevitable when I leave your lips
They may see the surface and judge from that
I did in fact, gave it time, there is no trap
Freedom, pleasure, in blue or grey weather
Alone and together, whoever you love
I wish they appreciate your embrace
Between the sex, lust and alcohol
I met a sober change, pain and the way you elevate
And though the scars of the past may be black
Your soul stays resilient, though the disgrace
Of your gifts raped, your heart torn
And grown back again. Sad and happy in
The subtlety of your smile, can we linger longer
Hold each other for a while? while love embodies us both
Your crazy, telling each other stories in a cryptic code
In the morning I must go, with the hope
Our paths may cross with the same spark along the road.
And if they don't, I'm prepared for that
No stranger to face the fact. Only a memory can be
Captured in a photograph.
As the train came and left, I wished you the best.
Blessed, with happy thoughts when I laid down to rest.
Friday, 29 November 2013
Blame the vodka (Warsaw)
I was
planing on a quiet one, though I might catch up on some writing and
my thoughts on Italy and the adventure of the first month...well
you'll see
The Okie Doki is a wonderful social hostel, and it wasn't long before I started meeting people; actually I had even made friend with a few before I even walked in the door. Just inside the entrance you became greeted with the big boobed statue of a mermaid. After a few invitations, and the severe twisting of my rubber arm, I finely made that lie to myself as you do, I'm only going out for one drink...
Nek Minet... 4:30 am. I got back to the hostel, went to bed got back up later to go to the bathroom. Realised I didn't have my key on me, or any clothes for that matter (at all). So I found myself at 5:30 in the morning knocking on the door to my room completely naked; certainly is an interesting way to meet your room mate.
The next day went out, came home 6 am, all good. Next day, quite one... almost... Two of the girls I spent a lot of time talking to and I went out together to a nice restaurant, at 3am we came back; I started writing again. Getting my last tea at 4am, at that point I ran into my friend, as she was coming back in from a bad night out, so stayed up talking shit, absolute shit... great value, shit. Nek Mintet..6am!
..Tonight, tonight is the night, I get to sleep before 6! New hostel, though I swear to the staff at the Oki Dokie it meant nothing to me (We had build up quite a repor at this point). I wrote, watched The Untouchables, with no English subtitles, but with a little help from my new friend from Quabek, it was easy enough to follow. Struggled with writing some more until some Polish rugby players came in at 4am. NEK MINET! 6Am! Next night ...one drink.. that was a lie... pretty girls.. 6am... five days running.. fuck it. In my defence, I may not of seen much of Warsaw so far, but I have met a lot of Polish.
Not entirely true, we took a couple of free walking tours. One of the old communists buildings. I love the subtle Polish sense of humour, the old communist head of state, (the white house) is now the home of Ferrari Warsar. The other of the old town, which is still a lot reconstructed after 90% of Warsaw being flattened or uninhabitable after WW2. The tour conduced with traditional food and drink, bread with pork grease and pickled cucumber, and of course vodka; before coffee. My room-mates and I had our cultural Vodka tasting that nigh, we were meant to go out with a group, we don't know what happened with them so we improvised. In a little underground bar, by location and nature, with live local hip hop and good vibes. I've got to note my room-mates are Australian, I came to Poland thinking I would meet less Aussies, nope, including two from Newy (Newcastle). We stumbled home singing bohemian rhapsody, arms over shoulders kebab in hand and happy.
Before leaving I went to the uprising museum, it's horrifying, but important to see and recognise, such a black part of Poland's history (and the worlds), that has had so much of an effect on how Poland is today. During WW2, an estimated one fifth of the population was killed, six million people. Many in mass excursions deported to Auschwitz extermination camp. One quote that really struck me, was about a man telling his son, “he wont stop his from fighting in the uprising, or expect him not to be killed, just asking that he does not get killed in a stupid way”. It was in parts shocking and gruesome; the photos, videos, and testaments of the survivors really hit home the capacity of evil and also the strength in people. Along with empathy I felt humbled in the fortunate in which I have lived life, to not to have experienced war... I will leave my serious not there, and let you do your own research. What I can say is it was one of the most powerful days, so far.
To sum up Warsaw as a tourist in the best way I can: It is a place I spent long nights drinking and laughing, and one of the most sobering experiences of my life.
The Okie Doki is a wonderful social hostel, and it wasn't long before I started meeting people; actually I had even made friend with a few before I even walked in the door. Just inside the entrance you became greeted with the big boobed statue of a mermaid. After a few invitations, and the severe twisting of my rubber arm, I finely made that lie to myself as you do, I'm only going out for one drink...
Nek Minet... 4:30 am. I got back to the hostel, went to bed got back up later to go to the bathroom. Realised I didn't have my key on me, or any clothes for that matter (at all). So I found myself at 5:30 in the morning knocking on the door to my room completely naked; certainly is an interesting way to meet your room mate.
The next day went out, came home 6 am, all good. Next day, quite one... almost... Two of the girls I spent a lot of time talking to and I went out together to a nice restaurant, at 3am we came back; I started writing again. Getting my last tea at 4am, at that point I ran into my friend, as she was coming back in from a bad night out, so stayed up talking shit, absolute shit... great value, shit. Nek Mintet..6am!
..Tonight, tonight is the night, I get to sleep before 6! New hostel, though I swear to the staff at the Oki Dokie it meant nothing to me (We had build up quite a repor at this point). I wrote, watched The Untouchables, with no English subtitles, but with a little help from my new friend from Quabek, it was easy enough to follow. Struggled with writing some more until some Polish rugby players came in at 4am. NEK MINET! 6Am! Next night ...one drink.. that was a lie... pretty girls.. 6am... five days running.. fuck it. In my defence, I may not of seen much of Warsaw so far, but I have met a lot of Polish.
Not entirely true, we took a couple of free walking tours. One of the old communists buildings. I love the subtle Polish sense of humour, the old communist head of state, (the white house) is now the home of Ferrari Warsar. The other of the old town, which is still a lot reconstructed after 90% of Warsaw being flattened or uninhabitable after WW2. The tour conduced with traditional food and drink, bread with pork grease and pickled cucumber, and of course vodka; before coffee. My room-mates and I had our cultural Vodka tasting that nigh, we were meant to go out with a group, we don't know what happened with them so we improvised. In a little underground bar, by location and nature, with live local hip hop and good vibes. I've got to note my room-mates are Australian, I came to Poland thinking I would meet less Aussies, nope, including two from Newy (Newcastle). We stumbled home singing bohemian rhapsody, arms over shoulders kebab in hand and happy.
Before leaving I went to the uprising museum, it's horrifying, but important to see and recognise, such a black part of Poland's history (and the worlds), that has had so much of an effect on how Poland is today. During WW2, an estimated one fifth of the population was killed, six million people. Many in mass excursions deported to Auschwitz extermination camp. One quote that really struck me, was about a man telling his son, “he wont stop his from fighting in the uprising, or expect him not to be killed, just asking that he does not get killed in a stupid way”. It was in parts shocking and gruesome; the photos, videos, and testaments of the survivors really hit home the capacity of evil and also the strength in people. Along with empathy I felt humbled in the fortunate in which I have lived life, to not to have experienced war... I will leave my serious not there, and let you do your own research. What I can say is it was one of the most powerful days, so far.
To sum up Warsaw as a tourist in the best way I can: It is a place I spent long nights drinking and laughing, and one of the most sobering experiences of my life.
"Greetings from Jerusalem Avenue"
Socialist realism, the architecture of poetry
Well if socialist realism at least made some beautiful skate spots
I left a lot unsaid about my time in Warsaw. This is the palace of culture, tallest building in Warsaw. It also contains a cinema, by amazing coincidence I was lucky enough to be there during the international film festival. It was an absolute huge highlight to be there, and shared with friends.
Thursday, 28 November 2013
Through Italy and beyond (Perspective). (Last day in Italy)
I
have had many amassing conversations along the road, one of which
that has stood was the last conversation I had before heading to
Poland. I could and will talk about the amazing scenic beauty the
architecture, the art and the people, but I wish to set an important
context for this.
If I may recount a contained part of conversation "That we are born into this world with a blank canvas, and we can fill it however we choose. You can fill this canvas with religion, or follow the manual; go to school, go to university as the next logical step, then become an accountant, marage, mortgage and 2.4 kids. Or as some people do, leave a lot blank. If you find purpose in your life, you will find contentment in how you paint your canvas, though travelling does not necessarily give you purpose, it does give you perspective and be thankful of opportunities." And it is this that make one feel humbled and inspired, and urge to take each day with tenacity, but it all come with perspective.
Now to sum up Italy with far to few sentences to do it justice, though a novel would hardly justify walking around for a day. Starting with the first striking element
as soon as I got off the plain, the natural beauty, unique and increasable from the rolling fields of Tuscany, to the ultra clear water of Cinque Terre and then to
the rocky hills and outcrops passed by train that make you want to buy a motorbike and explore. Three and a half weeks is but a taste, and has only instilled me we the
want neigh on need to return.
Then of cause there is the beauty outside of nature but in the human constructs, putting in me in serious danger of using the word indescribable way too much. There is a feeling tough looking up at the gargantuan first century Colosseum, the dome of the Pantheon of Rome, and fersards of Venice that even passed the "Shit, I'm actually here" makes you stand in sheer amazement. Of cause you can go to the top of many of these large structures as well, that for me at least has got me rather addicted to heights. The detail, the scale, the history and age cannot sit under a blanket term, it's 'a thing' in its self, is the only way I might try; and make you want to take up history as a hobby.
For art.. see paragraph above.
The people, how can I comment after only three and a half weeks? I guess we all to a degree fix our stereo types, football is a religion no doubt, mums are loved, and a few glasses of wine are shared at loud tables at restaurants, also a love of a outdoor lifeless and food. Alas I do not think I am adequately qualified to comment. I can only say I had a wonderful time and deeply varied conversation with the people I met. Just the smell of the food makes me hard, and the taste is like sex, not just... good sex. Even the supermarkets hold an incredible variant of produce. The markets are a kaleidoscope, I am salivating with just the memory. Ok you may struggle to get anything other than Italian, but there's no messing around when it come to quality. Then there’s the price, and the dangerous quality of the Vino. wow, wow, wow!!
This is something I have struggled with, to put into words the first stage of my travels. I believe there is not perfect way to put it, or if there is, it is brief. All the small moments and the momentous sights demand more than a wide vocabulary. All I can say truly is there is a change in my perspective, that makes my smile wider to strangers and myself, and to further embrace the world for all it's beauty and floors. (I am by no means done with this subject, but will retake it with my conclusion of central Europe)
As a last note I would like to thank everyone that has been a part of this journey, I have truly seen some of the best in people and you have in large part made this what it is to me. Much love to you and the world
Thursday, 21 November 2013
When the travel bug bites (Cinque Terre)
I
got up at 6:15 in the morning, normally a very uncomfortable hour
for me, I admit I was a bit bleary eyed and it took a shake from Alex to wake me; until I got outside and woken
be the cool but not unpleasant fresh air... also it was at that point I
remembered I had left my train tickets upstairs. Oh well, I try to
maintain the attitude, if the worst that happens is you loose or forget
a few things you're still doing alright, so have fun. Not long later I
had made it to central station, purchased another ticket and was on my way.
I could not of picked a more perfect day to go to Cinque Terre. I
woke up from my short doze to see the sea gently lapping against the
cost, rushing through the mountains by rail. By the time we had
reached the station at 11am the weather had warmed up to a balmy
beautiful high twenties.
No photo could justify that clear blue water that can be seen though for meters, with four inch fish darting between the rocks. A salty sweet smell hung in the giving me an urge to swim or explore; for practical reasons I chose to explore. At the peak of the nearest hill were the remains an old church that viewed out to all five of the towns; it was a steep walk up it but I made good time, to the top. The path was lined by small waxy leaved bush, with small hanging yellow and red fruit, skinks darted though the rocks, and the air was full with the smell of drying pine... yes the walk was ironically Australian, but the view was far from it.
Sitting down to take it all in watching the gigantic billowing pillow shaped clouds, I wished I could capture this moment and share it with you. No matter the detail I could try to describe it in, no video, photo, drawing, or document of emotions, can quite do justice to the place I was or feeling of travelling; I can only hope that I can spark a memory of peace and beauty, or the inspiration to get out there. This is the feeling that you know the the notorious travel bug has got you, and got got you good. I made my way down the mountain anxious not to waste a moment to explore.
From Monterosso I followed the trail to Vernazza, over and around the mountains, under the canopy of short trees, by tricking streams and bridges over deep gorges, where water pooled below. I tried maintain my pace, though this two hour hike that I did manage to achieve, but by the end, it took a lot of concentration, placing each foot carefully so as not to twist an ankle. I walked into the brightly coloured town of Vernazza as the urge for afternoon tea set in. Finding a small sandwich house, for something simple and delicious. I met a couple of Californians outside, that had set themselves the luxury I did not have of a couple of days, but I don't mind. I think it important to have that balance, of getting to know some places well, and wishing you had more time in others, a reminder time is fleeting so push yourself to be involved, and get exactly what you want out of life.
I hopped on a train back to Monterosso; though the afternoon had brought about a dramatic drop in temperature, the water was still extraordinarily pleasant. Though I didn't swim far, only out so I could see past a rock jutting out from the beach I could see the sunset come down over Vernazza.
I gave myself a caution of 25 minutes for the train as I usually would, needing to buy a ticket. I'm glad I did because, the single automatic ticket machine they had, had broken down so all tickets had to come through the single window of the ticket office. My train was due at 6:55, I got my ticket at 6:57, the train showed up one minute latter, lucky!
As the train returned along the track to Milan I watched the burnt red brown rays of light come down over the sea, the waxing crassest moon rising, as the stars start to gently appear. I was woken by my cabin mates when we got to Milan central.
I had arrived back in Milan earlier than I expected, so to kill some time, I headed to find a bar. It was a small place only two beers on tab, but the atmosphere was there that I wanted, I had the Italian beer and it was the most flavoursome one I've had yet. Being honest, the Italians have some superior vino, but the beer lacks character. The bar tenders and I talked beer for a while, giving me a sample of the Oktoberfest beer, the other on tap to compare. One tender was poring shots for other costumers, a mix of Jägermeister and white Sambuca, after the other customers had been served, they pored me the same on the house I was still a little early coming back to Alex's, but happened to bump into Franko and his giant German Shepard at the door, he who is very nice, and lives in the apartment building as Alex.
All in all, it was one of the best days I've had on my trip. I wish I could give you more than my pros and photos as they do not nearly do justice, but here is a tease of the spectacular place that is Cinque Terre!
No photo could justify that clear blue water that can be seen though for meters, with four inch fish darting between the rocks. A salty sweet smell hung in the giving me an urge to swim or explore; for practical reasons I chose to explore. At the peak of the nearest hill were the remains an old church that viewed out to all five of the towns; it was a steep walk up it but I made good time, to the top. The path was lined by small waxy leaved bush, with small hanging yellow and red fruit, skinks darted though the rocks, and the air was full with the smell of drying pine... yes the walk was ironically Australian, but the view was far from it.
Sitting down to take it all in watching the gigantic billowing pillow shaped clouds, I wished I could capture this moment and share it with you. No matter the detail I could try to describe it in, no video, photo, drawing, or document of emotions, can quite do justice to the place I was or feeling of travelling; I can only hope that I can spark a memory of peace and beauty, or the inspiration to get out there. This is the feeling that you know the the notorious travel bug has got you, and got got you good. I made my way down the mountain anxious not to waste a moment to explore.
From Monterosso I followed the trail to Vernazza, over and around the mountains, under the canopy of short trees, by tricking streams and bridges over deep gorges, where water pooled below. I tried maintain my pace, though this two hour hike that I did manage to achieve, but by the end, it took a lot of concentration, placing each foot carefully so as not to twist an ankle. I walked into the brightly coloured town of Vernazza as the urge for afternoon tea set in. Finding a small sandwich house, for something simple and delicious. I met a couple of Californians outside, that had set themselves the luxury I did not have of a couple of days, but I don't mind. I think it important to have that balance, of getting to know some places well, and wishing you had more time in others, a reminder time is fleeting so push yourself to be involved, and get exactly what you want out of life.
I hopped on a train back to Monterosso; though the afternoon had brought about a dramatic drop in temperature, the water was still extraordinarily pleasant. Though I didn't swim far, only out so I could see past a rock jutting out from the beach I could see the sunset come down over Vernazza.
I gave myself a caution of 25 minutes for the train as I usually would, needing to buy a ticket. I'm glad I did because, the single automatic ticket machine they had, had broken down so all tickets had to come through the single window of the ticket office. My train was due at 6:55, I got my ticket at 6:57, the train showed up one minute latter, lucky!
As the train returned along the track to Milan I watched the burnt red brown rays of light come down over the sea, the waxing crassest moon rising, as the stars start to gently appear. I was woken by my cabin mates when we got to Milan central.
I had arrived back in Milan earlier than I expected, so to kill some time, I headed to find a bar. It was a small place only two beers on tab, but the atmosphere was there that I wanted, I had the Italian beer and it was the most flavoursome one I've had yet. Being honest, the Italians have some superior vino, but the beer lacks character. The bar tenders and I talked beer for a while, giving me a sample of the Oktoberfest beer, the other on tap to compare. One tender was poring shots for other costumers, a mix of Jägermeister and white Sambuca, after the other customers had been served, they pored me the same on the house I was still a little early coming back to Alex's, but happened to bump into Franko and his giant German Shepard at the door, he who is very nice, and lives in the apartment building as Alex.
All in all, it was one of the best days I've had on my trip. I wish I could give you more than my pros and photos as they do not nearly do justice, but here is a tease of the spectacular place that is Cinque Terre!
Straight of the train
Vernazza
No caption needed
I wish I could give you the spectacular moon rise, this was just the entree
Wednesday, 20 November 2013
Day Trippers (Como and Verona)
We
caught the train into Como. Off the train we started to walk up one
of the nearby mountains in hope to see the lake from the top. Along
the way we stopped in at a quirky cafe, with character. I would have
to go back if I was staying for a few days. Despite the horrible
shade of pink the walls were painted in, it was kind of cool, the
waitress was particularly lovely. No two coffee cups were the same,
and a goldfish bowl was balanced a top the cake fridge. After a brief
lunch we headed on.
At he top of the mountain we still could not see the lake. We stopped to take a view, of the surrounding mountains, there peaks shrouded in clouds. I leaned down from the fence I was sitting on to take a grape from someone’s garden. It was the most exquisite grape, I've ever tasted; sweet and plump and delicious, bursting with flavour. No wonder why the wine is so dangerously drinkable here. When we got to the bottom, we headed straight for the lake. Shimmering in the light of the afternoon, the waster was calm as it winded it's way through the mountains. The flying club was situated where we were standing. I would have liked to take a boat plane across the lake and may return to do so if I can convince Kevin or Alex to do it with me. 120 euro for a 30 minute flight. I would of paid it on the spot but, no more flights were running that day. So I contented myself watching the ducks, playing in the water.
On the way home from Como, we had forgotten to validate our tickets so we got of at the nest station. The dodgiest, most graffiti ridden train station I have ever seen, kind of cool though. The validation machine at this train station was not working, in keeping with the general theme, so we thought we'ld try our luck on the next train, and try explain what happened if we got pulled up. We headed back home without any worries from the train officials.
In the morning of the next day we decided to go to Verona seeing as it was a shorter train trip then Cinque Terre. We found the art gallery Castelveccho (Old castle) and walked through its halls. Renting the audio guide that explained the artworks, I feel like a have learnt a little about art; one could defiantly see how the slant if an organ gave a bifocal dynamic perspective to the compersition. To be honest I can appreciate, the skill in the artist, but am no scholar. The moment I when oh Cool! Is when I saw, all the sward from over the eras; it's a guy thing, anything old, sharp and pointy does spark memories of imagination as a child.
Close by was the amphitheatre of Verona, which is still used for live performances, unfortunately none where running that day and the drizzle would of made for uncomfortable al fresco seating. We climbed the bell tower, only small, about 220 steps. At the top we were waiting for the 4:30 bells to chime, after hearing the bells from another town and 3 minutes over time, we assumed that this bell would not chime...wrongly. I was very loud and caught us completely unaware, one defining ring, but defiantly sneak, sneaky surprise. Before heading back, we saw the Duomo of Verona, understated on the outside, less on the inside but, an awesome building none the less. It did make we wonder with the dedication to faith in order to make these constructions, should I be less critical of church and it's believers? I will have to see.
Alex returned home, must off been a good and odd time in Amsterdam, I still don't know all that happened, but he came back with a smile on his face.
I was able to cook a three coarse dinner that night, the first I've done so far on this trip. Gnochi with scampi and squid, rustic beef tongue with pan roasted tomatoes, mushrooms and basil burre niosette. Dark chocolate panna cotta with sugar coated
fig and raspberries. After we tried to watch the first Pokemon movie for the third time, and for the third time we fell asleep before the end. It was a strange sleeping arrangement in Alex's apartment that worked on rotation between the couch/bed for two people and pillows on the floor for the third. What can I say it was comfy and travelling give you an instant sense of friendship. Kevin and I had said our good byes as he was to head of in the morning and me to head to Cinque Terre before he woke.
At he top of the mountain we still could not see the lake. We stopped to take a view, of the surrounding mountains, there peaks shrouded in clouds. I leaned down from the fence I was sitting on to take a grape from someone’s garden. It was the most exquisite grape, I've ever tasted; sweet and plump and delicious, bursting with flavour. No wonder why the wine is so dangerously drinkable here. When we got to the bottom, we headed straight for the lake. Shimmering in the light of the afternoon, the waster was calm as it winded it's way through the mountains. The flying club was situated where we were standing. I would have liked to take a boat plane across the lake and may return to do so if I can convince Kevin or Alex to do it with me. 120 euro for a 30 minute flight. I would of paid it on the spot but, no more flights were running that day. So I contented myself watching the ducks, playing in the water.
On the way home from Como, we had forgotten to validate our tickets so we got of at the nest station. The dodgiest, most graffiti ridden train station I have ever seen, kind of cool though. The validation machine at this train station was not working, in keeping with the general theme, so we thought we'ld try our luck on the next train, and try explain what happened if we got pulled up. We headed back home without any worries from the train officials.
In the morning of the next day we decided to go to Verona seeing as it was a shorter train trip then Cinque Terre. We found the art gallery Castelveccho (Old castle) and walked through its halls. Renting the audio guide that explained the artworks, I feel like a have learnt a little about art; one could defiantly see how the slant if an organ gave a bifocal dynamic perspective to the compersition. To be honest I can appreciate, the skill in the artist, but am no scholar. The moment I when oh Cool! Is when I saw, all the sward from over the eras; it's a guy thing, anything old, sharp and pointy does spark memories of imagination as a child.
Close by was the amphitheatre of Verona, which is still used for live performances, unfortunately none where running that day and the drizzle would of made for uncomfortable al fresco seating. We climbed the bell tower, only small, about 220 steps. At the top we were waiting for the 4:30 bells to chime, after hearing the bells from another town and 3 minutes over time, we assumed that this bell would not chime...wrongly. I was very loud and caught us completely unaware, one defining ring, but defiantly sneak, sneaky surprise. Before heading back, we saw the Duomo of Verona, understated on the outside, less on the inside but, an awesome building none the less. It did make we wonder with the dedication to faith in order to make these constructions, should I be less critical of church and it's believers? I will have to see.
Alex returned home, must off been a good and odd time in Amsterdam, I still don't know all that happened, but he came back with a smile on his face.
I was able to cook a three coarse dinner that night, the first I've done so far on this trip. Gnochi with scampi and squid, rustic beef tongue with pan roasted tomatoes, mushrooms and basil burre niosette. Dark chocolate panna cotta with sugar coated
fig and raspberries. After we tried to watch the first Pokemon movie for the third time, and for the third time we fell asleep before the end. It was a strange sleeping arrangement in Alex's apartment that worked on rotation between the couch/bed for two people and pillows on the floor for the third. What can I say it was comfy and travelling give you an instant sense of friendship. Kevin and I had said our good byes as he was to head of in the morning and me to head to Cinque Terre before he woke.
 |
| Maybe next time, still fun to watch one take off over the la |
Sketchy place
Verona panoramas
Castelveccho
Friends old and new (Milan part 1)
I got
off the train with that adrenalin kick that comes with a new city. I
got to where Alex was living and found a cafe just a couple of doors
down, so as I could use there Wifi. I sent Alex a message to let him
know I was in town, a few pastries later he come down to meet me, it
was good to see the face of an old friend. He gave me the grand tour
of his apartment, a comfortable three and a half roomed living spot,
and located in a awesome spot, right in the old town. Alex was
playing 5V5 football that night, so I went down with him to watch him
play.
Before departing from Perth airport, I bought two duty free bottles of Penfolds wine. The first was opened on the day of arriving in Rome the other I had been lugging around to give to Alex as a thank for his hospitality, a little taste of home. We went back past the shops, bought some food and I cooked dinner that night. We made an attempt to watch the first Pokemon movie, which become a repeating saga over the next few nights until we finally managed to stay up all the way to the end.
The next day I took a look around Milan. I had the mission to find the skate shop, seeing as my skateboard got stolen back when I was in Rome. When I got to the metro, I decided to make a detour instead and head to Milan's Duomo, it hits you like BAM! When you rise out of the subway, there is the huge Gothic complex in perfect white (Fifth largest cathedral in the world). The pigeons gather in the courtyard before it, to beg for scraps of bread, many sat perched when incentivised on the arms of photo-ready tourists. Inside, the Duomo I took the audioguide, which I am glad I did. It has had a funny old history, from it's conception to put Milan on the map and six centuries of construction, to the closing of its side entrances to stop farmers and carts using it as a thoroughfare to the market, to the gracious donation of a relic it now claims, one of the nails reputedly of Jesus' crucifix.
I found the skate shop and constructed myself a suitable replacement for my board. Then I felt my withdraws subside from there peak upon my fist push, as I glided back towards the metro line with the closest skate park freshly marked on my map. A medium sized bowl, well painted I dropped in and let that feeling flow though me. While talking to some of the skaters, someone said "Skateboarding is a fire inside some people, it may diminish but never go out" I rolled out to his after a little while. Then waiting by the front door I met Kevin. A friend of Alex's doing his second euro trip; over the next few days we traveled on day trips together.
In the morning Alex was headed to Amsterdam for the weekend, to experience the flavors the city might offer. Kevin and stayed at his apartment and used it as a base over the next few days. First day, we took to the streets of Milan, first back to the Duomo, this time taking the stairs all the way to the top to see the view, and to be able to see the magical spires up close. Then we jumped on another metro and walked around the enormous football stadium, though not surprising in a country where football is taken as seriously as religion (approx 85,000 capacity). Back home we worked on a our respective journals and had dinner, then bed.
Kevin rights an excellent blog of his travels; it's a great source of inspiration and a good laugh. If you want to give it a look the link sits below:http://haydendoestheworld.blogspot.com/2013/11/berlin-i-love-nightlife.html
Before departing from Perth airport, I bought two duty free bottles of Penfolds wine. The first was opened on the day of arriving in Rome the other I had been lugging around to give to Alex as a thank for his hospitality, a little taste of home. We went back past the shops, bought some food and I cooked dinner that night. We made an attempt to watch the first Pokemon movie, which become a repeating saga over the next few nights until we finally managed to stay up all the way to the end.
The next day I took a look around Milan. I had the mission to find the skate shop, seeing as my skateboard got stolen back when I was in Rome. When I got to the metro, I decided to make a detour instead and head to Milan's Duomo, it hits you like BAM! When you rise out of the subway, there is the huge Gothic complex in perfect white (Fifth largest cathedral in the world). The pigeons gather in the courtyard before it, to beg for scraps of bread, many sat perched when incentivised on the arms of photo-ready tourists. Inside, the Duomo I took the audioguide, which I am glad I did. It has had a funny old history, from it's conception to put Milan on the map and six centuries of construction, to the closing of its side entrances to stop farmers and carts using it as a thoroughfare to the market, to the gracious donation of a relic it now claims, one of the nails reputedly of Jesus' crucifix.
I found the skate shop and constructed myself a suitable replacement for my board. Then I felt my withdraws subside from there peak upon my fist push, as I glided back towards the metro line with the closest skate park freshly marked on my map. A medium sized bowl, well painted I dropped in and let that feeling flow though me. While talking to some of the skaters, someone said "Skateboarding is a fire inside some people, it may diminish but never go out" I rolled out to his after a little while. Then waiting by the front door I met Kevin. A friend of Alex's doing his second euro trip; over the next few days we traveled on day trips together.
In the morning Alex was headed to Amsterdam for the weekend, to experience the flavors the city might offer. Kevin and stayed at his apartment and used it as a base over the next few days. First day, we took to the streets of Milan, first back to the Duomo, this time taking the stairs all the way to the top to see the view, and to be able to see the magical spires up close. Then we jumped on another metro and walked around the enormous football stadium, though not surprising in a country where football is taken as seriously as religion (approx 85,000 capacity). Back home we worked on a our respective journals and had dinner, then bed.
Kevin rights an excellent blog of his travels; it's a great source of inspiration and a good laugh. If you want to give it a look the link sits below:http://haydendoestheworld.blogspot.com/2013/11/berlin-i-love-nightlife.html
Dinner with a great old mate
Just one of the many, many beautiful stain glass window in the Duomo
Madonnina statue that sit atop the main spire (108.5 meters)
Rolling around town
Monday, 4 November 2013
Bringing it out of the postcards (Venice Part 2)
It
took a lot of time for me, for Venice to came out from the postcards.
Maybe it was first impressions, maybe it was the intensity of the
tourist culture and difficulty of finding locals interested in having
a conversation. For all it's uniqueness and architectural beauty, my
thoughts were for a long time; it was exactly as I expected.
Not to say I had poor expectations, that would be untrue; but it was my fellow travelers and other new friends such as Wie and Francis that personalized my experience in this city. Of cause I did all the tourists attractions like the Doge's palace, the walls and ceiling covered in a huge intricate gold mosaic; and the nearby tower with the panoramic view of the city below watching over the majesty of floating landscape. No Gondola ride though, as much as I would like to say that I done it, there are a lot of other things I would like to say I've done for 80 Euro.
I booked myself into a hotel as it was the only place available at the time, 50 euro. Wrestled with writers block and had rather a boring night to be honest, the positive in this might be, the vibrancy of my outgoing nature was twice as strong by the time the next night came around. In the morning I checked back in to my old hostel. Went for a wonder down to the edge of Venice, a peaceful change from from the bustle of the main street. There are some beautiful parks and a quietness there, where the locals live; and reminding myself of the understated refreshing value of crisp clean air. I took a ferry over to Lido the island of the famous Venice beach. It was an extraordinary grey dismal day, so the beach was left completely silent. I would like to come back in summer when everyone pack onto it, to be able to experience the loved lively feel, others have adored. I could see the beauty in it, but that beauty was also only in my imagination.
As I headed back across the water and watched the sun set over the city, a slight break in the grey black clouds, let the sun breach through, highlighting everything in perfect gold. On my way back to Piazzale Roma I was a little lost, when I saw a group of foreigners with a Italian guide, walking with complete confidence, assuming they would be going (wrongly) to Piazzale Roma as I was. I dropped into the group, with complete confidence and started chatting, turns out neither new where we were going, so we had a good laugh! They were university students over on exchange. We found a bar and stood around talking. Two in particular I grew a fondness to; Londinions, Frances and Wei. Poetry fans, historians and writers. We stayed up talking till 5 (Frances crashed out a little before) in the morning, despite them having a tour of a library the next day at 9am. We got up at 7:30, it was a crisp blue morning, before the bustle of the new day had set in. We had to part ways at the Rialto, the market bridge. I walked past the fish markets of Rialto, with the distinct smell of freshness, though I looked only from a distance, probably all I could take, seeing as we had no kitchen in our hostel.
It became a habit of mine in the evenings to walk down to San Marco square, and let the marvelous music of the nearby band relax me. The played fast passed classics, to a melodious cover of 'What A Wonderful World'. Some days I may of spent an hour there, it would have been perfect to enjoy a glass of red but, gladly I looked at the menu of the nearby restaurant; starting at 12 Euro a glass plus service, plus 6 Euro band fee, it felt like something I could skip!
With a feeling of readiness I left Venice, to take on some new adventure, and to see a good friend. I took a grain of salt to love this place, but that would not deter me from making a return visit. Next stop Milan!
Not to say I had poor expectations, that would be untrue; but it was my fellow travelers and other new friends such as Wie and Francis that personalized my experience in this city. Of cause I did all the tourists attractions like the Doge's palace, the walls and ceiling covered in a huge intricate gold mosaic; and the nearby tower with the panoramic view of the city below watching over the majesty of floating landscape. No Gondola ride though, as much as I would like to say that I done it, there are a lot of other things I would like to say I've done for 80 Euro.
I booked myself into a hotel as it was the only place available at the time, 50 euro. Wrestled with writers block and had rather a boring night to be honest, the positive in this might be, the vibrancy of my outgoing nature was twice as strong by the time the next night came around. In the morning I checked back in to my old hostel. Went for a wonder down to the edge of Venice, a peaceful change from from the bustle of the main street. There are some beautiful parks and a quietness there, where the locals live; and reminding myself of the understated refreshing value of crisp clean air. I took a ferry over to Lido the island of the famous Venice beach. It was an extraordinary grey dismal day, so the beach was left completely silent. I would like to come back in summer when everyone pack onto it, to be able to experience the loved lively feel, others have adored. I could see the beauty in it, but that beauty was also only in my imagination.
As I headed back across the water and watched the sun set over the city, a slight break in the grey black clouds, let the sun breach through, highlighting everything in perfect gold. On my way back to Piazzale Roma I was a little lost, when I saw a group of foreigners with a Italian guide, walking with complete confidence, assuming they would be going (wrongly) to Piazzale Roma as I was. I dropped into the group, with complete confidence and started chatting, turns out neither new where we were going, so we had a good laugh! They were university students over on exchange. We found a bar and stood around talking. Two in particular I grew a fondness to; Londinions, Frances and Wei. Poetry fans, historians and writers. We stayed up talking till 5 (Frances crashed out a little before) in the morning, despite them having a tour of a library the next day at 9am. We got up at 7:30, it was a crisp blue morning, before the bustle of the new day had set in. We had to part ways at the Rialto, the market bridge. I walked past the fish markets of Rialto, with the distinct smell of freshness, though I looked only from a distance, probably all I could take, seeing as we had no kitchen in our hostel.
It became a habit of mine in the evenings to walk down to San Marco square, and let the marvelous music of the nearby band relax me. The played fast passed classics, to a melodious cover of 'What A Wonderful World'. Some days I may of spent an hour there, it would have been perfect to enjoy a glass of red but, gladly I looked at the menu of the nearby restaurant; starting at 12 Euro a glass plus service, plus 6 Euro band fee, it felt like something I could skip!
With a feeling of readiness I left Venice, to take on some new adventure, and to see a good friend. I took a grain of salt to love this place, but that would not deter me from making a return visit. Next stop Milan!
Another perfect sunset
Doge's palace, they weren't exactly strict in enforcing there no photo policy!
Enough said
Wei, Frances and I
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