Los Roques is a group of small, sandy islands scattered in the Caribbean sea who forms a national park. Incredibly expensive, but this is paradise. No big hotels. No people trying to sell stuff. Just a nice atmosphere along with perfect beaches, corals and turquoise water.
Arrived by the smallest plane to a tiny airport. The tower is on a truck, the terminal is two shacks. Our guesthouse, Posada Aquamarina, was nice, with excellent service (except for from one of the employees). We had an all-inclusive package, so as we arrived early we were driven directly out to a nearby island where we spent the day trying to get burned. The week we stayed, Roger did the best job on that.
His christmas present this year was the diving license, on christmas eve he passed the exam and officially got the OWD. I went with him for two dives, it was great. The underwater life out here is amazing.
Except for two dives, christmas eve was spent opening presents and eating. As normal. Except that it was lobster and champagne for dinner.
One week in heaven had to end, now we have one week in Caracas before returning to Oslo.
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
mandag 28. desember 2009
fredag 18. desember 2009
Puno and Cusco
One night in Puno, to spend the day on Lago Titicaca. Visited the floating islands, a strange place.
Then on with bus to Cusco, which consider itself the archaelogical capital of America. It was in the heart of the Inca empire, with ruins everywhere you turn. Including one of the worlds so called seven wonders; Macchu Picchu. Tourists are all over the place, as are people trying to get their money. Thirty years ago Cusco was a small town, today it's stretching further onto the surrounding hills as people arrive to get a bit of the new gold. There is no industry nor any agriculture in the city, most people try to survive on tourists.
Which is sad, it could have been a nice place. If it were possible to walk two metres or sit still a minute without being attacked.
That said, the heritage of the Incas around here is impressive, and well worth a visit. Just bring loads of patience, the little I had got lost somewhere when I just felt like a big walking dollar bill.
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
Then on with bus to Cusco, which consider itself the archaelogical capital of America. It was in the heart of the Inca empire, with ruins everywhere you turn. Including one of the worlds so called seven wonders; Macchu Picchu. Tourists are all over the place, as are people trying to get their money. Thirty years ago Cusco was a small town, today it's stretching further onto the surrounding hills as people arrive to get a bit of the new gold. There is no industry nor any agriculture in the city, most people try to survive on tourists.
Which is sad, it could have been a nice place. If it were possible to walk two metres or sit still a minute without being attacked.
That said, the heritage of the Incas around here is impressive, and well worth a visit. Just bring loads of patience, the little I had got lost somewhere when I just felt like a big walking dollar bill.
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
søndag 13. desember 2009
La Paz
Arrived the worlds highest capital (3,600 m) early in the morning. Got a couple of hours sleep before heading of to see some of this chaotic, polluted and charming city. I like it! Unfortunately my time is running out, in one week (next saturday) I have to be in Lima.
So as my time is limited, I've done it easy; bought all I need for the next week at an agency. Only had friday in La Paz, then took the bus saturday morning to Copacabana, a small place by lake Titicaca, and then a boat to Isla del Sol. This is the place the Incas believed the sun came from.
Today about 2,000 persons live out here, thanks to tourism. Very nice to walk around, incredibly peaceful. Unless you get sick from the altitude. Met a swedish couple who had problems with that. Well, seems as if most people except for me has had some kind of problem with the altitude.
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
So as my time is limited, I've done it easy; bought all I need for the next week at an agency. Only had friday in La Paz, then took the bus saturday morning to Copacabana, a small place by lake Titicaca, and then a boat to Isla del Sol. This is the place the Incas believed the sun came from.
Today about 2,000 persons live out here, thanks to tourism. Very nice to walk around, incredibly peaceful. Unless you get sick from the altitude. Met a swedish couple who had problems with that. Well, seems as if most people except for me has had some kind of problem with the altitude.
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
Bolivia
In terms of money, this is South Americas poorest country. In terms of culture, history, nature, people and smiles, it has to be one of the richest. Oh, and it lacks a coast, a bitter fact for most bolivians. Some optimists are hoping for Chile to give it back, but it's complicated and also Peru has to agree.
Last sunday Evo Morales was re-elected with 63 % of the votes, giving him five more years of trying to change the country to the better for the people, not the companies as has been the norm. In the past years he (I've been told) has focused on analfabetism, health and womens rights. Children going to public schools gets a small payment, to keep them in school instead of having to work. Teachers have gotten lap-tops. School-material is improved. Adults gets courses in the evening to learn how to read and write. And women are involved in the political life and are organizing all over the country, something that was unheard of five years ago. But, as the church has a lot of power, this is a country where thousands of women die in illegal abortions. Will Evo have the courage to do something about that?
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
Last sunday Evo Morales was re-elected with 63 % of the votes, giving him five more years of trying to change the country to the better for the people, not the companies as has been the norm. In the past years he (I've been told) has focused on analfabetism, health and womens rights. Children going to public schools gets a small payment, to keep them in school instead of having to work. Teachers have gotten lap-tops. School-material is improved. Adults gets courses in the evening to learn how to read and write. And women are involved in the political life and are organizing all over the country, something that was unheard of five years ago. But, as the church has a lot of power, this is a country where thousands of women die in illegal abortions. Will Evo have the courage to do something about that?
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
lørdag 12. desember 2009
Chile
A country that surprised me, I didn't know it was so developed. They still have a way to go, especially in rural areas. But people believe that in a few years (4-5) Chile will be the first latin american country taking the step up to be considered as part of the "first world".
Another surprising thing here was the presidential election. The president can only sit one period at a time! So even though people are satisfied with the sitting president, they can't re-elect her in the coming election.
Chile is Norways main competition when it comes to salmon. And maybe a country to learn from? The wild salmon doesn't exist here anymore. At the moment they are going through a big crisis due to a virus on their salmon. Lucky for us, instead of helping them we can now get into their markets. But that's another story. Norway and Chile also have other things than salmon in common, as a brit commented; maybe it's the climate? Chileans are very on time, and they follow laws and agreements. No wonder they are a bit separated from the rest of the continent, or "a lonely island" as they see it.
A safe, easy and great country to travel in. Even though it's the most expensive country down here, it's still pretty cheap. As in Argentina, time is essential, the distances are big. And warm clothes. Both for the south and the north.
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
Another surprising thing here was the presidential election. The president can only sit one period at a time! So even though people are satisfied with the sitting president, they can't re-elect her in the coming election.
Chile is Norways main competition when it comes to salmon. And maybe a country to learn from? The wild salmon doesn't exist here anymore. At the moment they are going through a big crisis due to a virus on their salmon. Lucky for us, instead of helping them we can now get into their markets. But that's another story. Norway and Chile also have other things than salmon in common, as a brit commented; maybe it's the climate? Chileans are very on time, and they follow laws and agreements. No wonder they are a bit separated from the rest of the continent, or "a lonely island" as they see it.
A safe, easy and great country to travel in. Even though it's the most expensive country down here, it's still pretty cheap. As in Argentina, time is essential, the distances are big. And warm clothes. Both for the south and the north.
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
torsdag 10. desember 2009
San Pedro to Uyuni
One of the definitive highlights this trip; a 3 day 4WD trip from San Pedro to Uruyuni in Bolivia.
We were bussed up to the Bolivian border, where we changed to our car, and then started our journey through the national park Eduardo Alvaroa. Everything is between 4,500 and 4,900 metres, so one of the guys got relly sick from the altitude. Luckily I didn't feel anything. Well, except getting short of breath very easily. Happy to be driving, and not riding a bicycle as some of the guys we met.
An amazing trip! Visited the geysirs (o fumadores) Sol de Mañana on 4,850 above sea level. Saw lakes in several colors; red, green, white and blue. With thousands of flamencoes. Volcanoes watching the endless deserts. Surreal big rocks with strange shapes in the middle of nowhere. One of these named after Dali, naturally. Everything seemed endless, the area is huge. And absolutely fantastic!!!
In the middle of day two we exited the national park, and went down to only 3,600 metres. Enough to make the sick traveller get better and manage to eat. As for the record, he was not a gringo but chilean.
The last day we spent in the enourmous and beautiful salt desert, Salar de Uyuni. Strange to think that the sea was all the way up here!
Now I'm in Uruyuni, waiting for the bus to La Paz that leaves in a few hours. Not looking forward to this overnight bus, as I've heard the road is very bad for the first hours.
We were bussed up to the Bolivian border, where we changed to our car, and then started our journey through the national park Eduardo Alvaroa. Everything is between 4,500 and 4,900 metres, so one of the guys got relly sick from the altitude. Luckily I didn't feel anything. Well, except getting short of breath very easily. Happy to be driving, and not riding a bicycle as some of the guys we met.
An amazing trip! Visited the geysirs (o fumadores) Sol de Mañana on 4,850 above sea level. Saw lakes in several colors; red, green, white and blue. With thousands of flamencoes. Volcanoes watching the endless deserts. Surreal big rocks with strange shapes in the middle of nowhere. One of these named after Dali, naturally. Everything seemed endless, the area is huge. And absolutely fantastic!!!
In the middle of day two we exited the national park, and went down to only 3,600 metres. Enough to make the sick traveller get better and manage to eat. As for the record, he was not a gringo but chilean.
The last day we spent in the enourmous and beautiful salt desert, Salar de Uyuni. Strange to think that the sea was all the way up here!
Now I'm in Uruyuni, waiting for the bus to La Paz that leaves in a few hours. Not looking forward to this overnight bus, as I've heard the road is very bad for the first hours.
onsdag 9. desember 2009
San Pedro de Atacama
This dusty town is found in the worlds driest desert, at more than 2000 metres above sea level, vlose by both the argentinian and bolivian border.
Two nights here were enough. Wandered around the museum (they only have one), where they display the life here before and during the Incas. Had a trip to the worlds highest geysirs, Tatio, in the morning on monday. Left at the not humane 4 a.m. It was freezing, how many degrees I don't know, but below zero as it was ice around the geysirs.
Inthe afternoon I visited a salty lake, Lago Cejas, supposedly saltier than the Dead Sea. Strange to be floating like that in the water! After a wonderful sunset it was back to San Pedro. I really had to use the toilet, already an hour before sunset. The one hour on very bumpy roads back didn't exactly help. So back in San Pedro I had to run. So fast that I forgot my camera in the bus. Luckily there were still people in agencies office when I discovered it. And I got it back. Would be a shame to loose my christmas present before christmas!
Two nights here were enough. Wandered around the museum (they only have one), where they display the life here before and during the Incas. Had a trip to the worlds highest geysirs, Tatio, in the morning on monday. Left at the not humane 4 a.m. It was freezing, how many degrees I don't know, but below zero as it was ice around the geysirs.
Inthe afternoon I visited a salty lake, Lago Cejas, supposedly saltier than the Dead Sea. Strange to be floating like that in the water! After a wonderful sunset it was back to San Pedro. I really had to use the toilet, already an hour before sunset. The one hour on very bumpy roads back didn't exactly help. So back in San Pedro I had to run. So fast that I forgot my camera in the bus. Luckily there were still people in agencies office when I discovered it. And I got it back. Would be a shame to loose my christmas present before christmas!
lørdag 5. desember 2009
Santiago de Chile
My third Santiago this trip. It surprised me how developed the city is. No kids living on the streets and/or selling things. It's clean. It has a very good transportation system. The traffic is quiet. It's safe to cross the street on a green man. Because of the surrounding hills and mountains with snowy peaks it seems quite small.
The first day I was well enough to do something, I went to the winery of Concha y Toro, Chile's biggest wine producer. Most famous abroad for Casillero del Diablo, "the devil's cellar". We had the luxury tour, with tasting of five wines with an expert. How she managed to smell and taste all the things she did, neither me nor the australian who was with me understood. But we agreed the wines were good.
Thanks to the laundry that still have most of my clothes, I've finally had the chance to do some shopping. Felt great! Wonderful to be able to buy hand-made designer clothes. As Buenos Aires, Santiago also have some bohemian areas with nice cafés and charming boutiques. Spent some hours the past week with a book and a glass of wine, just enjoying the atmosphere in these.
Argentina consists of mostly european immigrants, meaning blue eyes and blonde hair is common. Here the population is more indigenous, and Santiago has one of the worlds best and most important museums about the pre columbine time. Very interesting, and worth a visit. As the National historical museum, that tells about the countries history since the last ice age. In the last one you should speak spanish though, none of the information is in english.
Originally my plan was to stay a couple of nights, then a couple of nights in Valparaiso before returning to Argentina. Thanks to the quality on my passport, I had to stay a lot longer waiting for a new one to arrive from Norway. The embassy can not make passports. A bit strange in my eyes, is that not one of the things travelling norwegians usually need their help for? Luckily it got here yesterday, so now I'm on my way up to northern Chile. Almost 24 hours on a bus, but good to be on the road again. Only two more weeks on my own down here! And not too bad with such a long bus trip, when you have a bed.
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
The first day I was well enough to do something, I went to the winery of Concha y Toro, Chile's biggest wine producer. Most famous abroad for Casillero del Diablo, "the devil's cellar". We had the luxury tour, with tasting of five wines with an expert. How she managed to smell and taste all the things she did, neither me nor the australian who was with me understood. But we agreed the wines were good.
Thanks to the laundry that still have most of my clothes, I've finally had the chance to do some shopping. Felt great! Wonderful to be able to buy hand-made designer clothes. As Buenos Aires, Santiago also have some bohemian areas with nice cafés and charming boutiques. Spent some hours the past week with a book and a glass of wine, just enjoying the atmosphere in these.
Argentina consists of mostly european immigrants, meaning blue eyes and blonde hair is common. Here the population is more indigenous, and Santiago has one of the worlds best and most important museums about the pre columbine time. Very interesting, and worth a visit. As the National historical museum, that tells about the countries history since the last ice age. In the last one you should speak spanish though, none of the information is in english.
Originally my plan was to stay a couple of nights, then a couple of nights in Valparaiso before returning to Argentina. Thanks to the quality on my passport, I had to stay a lot longer waiting for a new one to arrive from Norway. The embassy can not make passports. A bit strange in my eyes, is that not one of the things travelling norwegians usually need their help for? Luckily it got here yesterday, so now I'm on my way up to northern Chile. Almost 24 hours on a bus, but good to be on the road again. Only two more weeks on my own down here! And not too bad with such a long bus trip, when you have a bed.
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
søndag 29. november 2009
Valparaiso
Spent the weekend in the small coastal city Valparaiso, inspired by Isabel Allende who writes a lot about it. Parts of the city is built on steep hills, making you wonder how they managed to build their houses. Being a major port and a natural stop before the Panama Canal was made, it was a quite wealthy town, as is possible to see today in all the old elevators scattered around, saving you the exercise of taking the stairs. That is, if it's not during the siesta.
Several bohemian neighbourhoods are nice just to stroll around, admiring well done, creative graffiti and the view of the bay. One of Nobel-winner Pablo Neruda's houses are found in one of these areas. It's not big or impressive in any way, just very nice and.. hm.. interesting. With a magnificent view.
Downtown is more chaotic, and has some of the feel I expected and missed in both Santiago and Buenos Aires. I like this city!
For those in the need of beaches, they are close by. At the moment I'm still not really there after my Caribbean overload. And knowing I'll spend christmas on a Caribbean paradise, I'm still prefering city life.
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
Several bohemian neighbourhoods are nice just to stroll around, admiring well done, creative graffiti and the view of the bay. One of Nobel-winner Pablo Neruda's houses are found in one of these areas. It's not big or impressive in any way, just very nice and.. hm.. interesting. With a magnificent view.
Downtown is more chaotic, and has some of the feel I expected and missed in both Santiago and Buenos Aires. I like this city!
For those in the need of beaches, they are close by. At the moment I'm still not really there after my Caribbean overload. And knowing I'll spend christmas on a Caribbean paradise, I'm still prefering city life.
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
fredag 27. november 2009
Argentina
Three weeks in Argentina has passed. With short trips to Brazil and Uruguay. The country is huge (the worlds 7th biggest?), in order to really see it you'll need months. Guess I have to go back one day to see the rest. As well as doing some serious shopping in Buenos Aires.
The country is wealthier and more similar to Norway than I thought. Maybe the last because of the climate? It's a perfect country for travelling. Safe, easy and cheap with plenty of things to do and see. But because of the distances time is an essential thing to have plenty of. And warm clothes if travelling south.
Recommended? Oh yes!
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
The country is wealthier and more similar to Norway than I thought. Maybe the last because of the climate? It's a perfect country for travelling. Safe, easy and cheap with plenty of things to do and see. But because of the distances time is an essential thing to have plenty of. And warm clothes if travelling south.
Recommended? Oh yes!
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
tirsdag 24. november 2009
Liten avsporing
Dette er egentlig en reiseblogg, men må nesten bare kommentere et par ting.
På reisefot er det ikke så lett alltid å oppdatere seg på nyhetsbildet i verden. Når jeg har hatt muligheten, har jeg lest en del norske aviser. Finnmark Dagblad er flinke på nett. Nordlys er bedre på iphone-utgaven enn ellers (de har nyheter!), selv om noen burde ta seg et kurs i norsk rettskriving. VG og Dagbladet er dessverre helt håpløse. Joda, de kan norsk. Mangler bare dessverre nyheter. Moland, svineinfluensa (her jeg er nå er dengue-feber den store faren), Skal vi danse, Jakten på kjærligheten. Vel, ingen av disse sakene har noen større interesse for meg. Og ut fra avisenes stadig synkende opplagstall, burde det kanskje være en antydning om at disse "sakene" har liten interesse for "folk flest"?
Uten å ha satt meg inn i saken og uten å ha hørt noen debatter om emnet, var det som utløste denne lille avsporingen den siste tåpelige store saken, som dessverre ikke er så tåpelig om mediene klarer å skvise enkelte populistiske politikere: Det høye sykefraværet i Norge.
Dette minner meg om en annen debatt for et eller to år siden hvor bl.a. NHO hylte høyt om de like lønningene vi har i Norge. Det å ta en utdanning betalte ikke nok (Norge var DET landet i verden hvor utdanning lønte seg minst), lønnsforskjellene burde økes. Med tanke på alt arbeidet som ennå legges ned for å utjevne lønningene (de er dessverre ikke helt like), forstod nok de fleste etterhvert at dette ikke nyttet og debatten døde ut.
I tillegg til lik lønn, har det de siste årene vært jobbet mye med å få til et inkluderende arbeidsliv, samt at vi er blitt fortalt at pensjonsalderen må økes. Vi må jobbe lenger.
Et inkluderende arbeidsliv innebærer at alle skal kunne gå til en jobb og føle seg nyttige i samfunnet vårt. Vi skal ikke stue bort syke slik vi gjorde for noen årtier siden. "Alle skal med" som vi hørte tidligere i år (før september). Et "problem" med dette, vil være slikt som økt sykefravær. Men hvor mye mer koster det samfunnet om en person er sykemeldt f.eks 14 dager et år, fremfor å gå på trygd hele året?
Pensjon. Skal ikke skrive for mye om det, uansett hvor fristende det er. Tanken også her, har vært å få flere i jobb fremfor kun å motta penger. Nå er det normalt slik, at etterhvert som årene går vil kroppen krangle litt. Så for å gjenta meg selv: Et "problem" med dette, vil være slikt som økt sykefravær. Men hvor mye mer koster det samfunnet om en person er sykemeldt f.eks 14 dager et år, fremfor å gå på trygd hele året?
Og så til det som fikk meg til å skrive nå, en liten tweet fra Ap: "Jens Stoltenberg varslet idag ekstra innsats mot sykefravær i helse- og omsorgssektoren". Hvor mange millioner har vært "spart" de senere årene innen denne sektoren? Alle har hørt om stoppeklokkeomsorgen. Ikke bare en myte, mange steder et trist faktum. De som jobber i disse yrkene er mennesker, hvor lenge er det mulig å jobbe under psykisk og fysisk høyt press uten å bli sykemeldt? Jeg hadde en ung, godt trent, sportslig aktiv kollega i hjemmetjenesten som tok et år fri fra skole for å jobbe. Det gikk to måneder så var hun sykemeldt. Et av alle disse lavtlønte yrkene hvor ingen holder ut til pensjonsalder. Det mest sannsynlige er sykemelding, jobb, lenger sykemelding helt til du blir uføretrygdet. Med videre innstramminger og effektiviseringer vil ikke noe endre seg i forhold til sykefraværet. Vel, annet enn at det nok øker.
Nå har vi mange andre arbeidsplasser i landet, hvor det burde være mulig å få ned sykefraværet. Men det moderne effektiviseringsspøkelset har en tendens til å øke akkurat det. Sammen med statens utgifter og bedriftens inntjening. Posten konstaterte sjokkert etter alle sine effektiviseringer at sykefraværet deres var skyhøyt.
Men var det egentlig så rart? Hvordan ønsker vi samfunnet vårt? Arbeidet vårt?
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
På reisefot er det ikke så lett alltid å oppdatere seg på nyhetsbildet i verden. Når jeg har hatt muligheten, har jeg lest en del norske aviser. Finnmark Dagblad er flinke på nett. Nordlys er bedre på iphone-utgaven enn ellers (de har nyheter!), selv om noen burde ta seg et kurs i norsk rettskriving. VG og Dagbladet er dessverre helt håpløse. Joda, de kan norsk. Mangler bare dessverre nyheter. Moland, svineinfluensa (her jeg er nå er dengue-feber den store faren), Skal vi danse, Jakten på kjærligheten. Vel, ingen av disse sakene har noen større interesse for meg. Og ut fra avisenes stadig synkende opplagstall, burde det kanskje være en antydning om at disse "sakene" har liten interesse for "folk flest"?
Uten å ha satt meg inn i saken og uten å ha hørt noen debatter om emnet, var det som utløste denne lille avsporingen den siste tåpelige store saken, som dessverre ikke er så tåpelig om mediene klarer å skvise enkelte populistiske politikere: Det høye sykefraværet i Norge.
Dette minner meg om en annen debatt for et eller to år siden hvor bl.a. NHO hylte høyt om de like lønningene vi har i Norge. Det å ta en utdanning betalte ikke nok (Norge var DET landet i verden hvor utdanning lønte seg minst), lønnsforskjellene burde økes. Med tanke på alt arbeidet som ennå legges ned for å utjevne lønningene (de er dessverre ikke helt like), forstod nok de fleste etterhvert at dette ikke nyttet og debatten døde ut.
I tillegg til lik lønn, har det de siste årene vært jobbet mye med å få til et inkluderende arbeidsliv, samt at vi er blitt fortalt at pensjonsalderen må økes. Vi må jobbe lenger.
Et inkluderende arbeidsliv innebærer at alle skal kunne gå til en jobb og føle seg nyttige i samfunnet vårt. Vi skal ikke stue bort syke slik vi gjorde for noen årtier siden. "Alle skal med" som vi hørte tidligere i år (før september). Et "problem" med dette, vil være slikt som økt sykefravær. Men hvor mye mer koster det samfunnet om en person er sykemeldt f.eks 14 dager et år, fremfor å gå på trygd hele året?
Pensjon. Skal ikke skrive for mye om det, uansett hvor fristende det er. Tanken også her, har vært å få flere i jobb fremfor kun å motta penger. Nå er det normalt slik, at etterhvert som årene går vil kroppen krangle litt. Så for å gjenta meg selv: Et "problem" med dette, vil være slikt som økt sykefravær. Men hvor mye mer koster det samfunnet om en person er sykemeldt f.eks 14 dager et år, fremfor å gå på trygd hele året?
Og så til det som fikk meg til å skrive nå, en liten tweet fra Ap: "Jens Stoltenberg varslet idag ekstra innsats mot sykefravær i helse- og omsorgssektoren". Hvor mange millioner har vært "spart" de senere årene innen denne sektoren? Alle har hørt om stoppeklokkeomsorgen. Ikke bare en myte, mange steder et trist faktum. De som jobber i disse yrkene er mennesker, hvor lenge er det mulig å jobbe under psykisk og fysisk høyt press uten å bli sykemeldt? Jeg hadde en ung, godt trent, sportslig aktiv kollega i hjemmetjenesten som tok et år fri fra skole for å jobbe. Det gikk to måneder så var hun sykemeldt. Et av alle disse lavtlønte yrkene hvor ingen holder ut til pensjonsalder. Det mest sannsynlige er sykemelding, jobb, lenger sykemelding helt til du blir uføretrygdet. Med videre innstramminger og effektiviseringer vil ikke noe endre seg i forhold til sykefraværet. Vel, annet enn at det nok øker.
Nå har vi mange andre arbeidsplasser i landet, hvor det burde være mulig å få ned sykefraværet. Men det moderne effektiviseringsspøkelset har en tendens til å øke akkurat det. Sammen med statens utgifter og bedriftens inntjening. Posten konstaterte sjokkert etter alle sine effektiviseringer at sykefraværet deres var skyhøyt.
Men var det egentlig så rart? Hvordan ønsker vi samfunnet vårt? Arbeidet vårt?
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
mandag 23. november 2009
Mendoza and Rosario
Arrived Rosario in the morning, left my backpack at the terminal and grabbed a bus downtown. Rosario has about one million inhabitants, and is famous for being Che's hometown. Apart from that it is economically very important for the country.
Didn't get to see too much of the city. Half my day disappeared in buying a small camera (christmas present from my parents) and finding a place to send my big camera back to Norway. Have hardly deared taking pictures here, and as Argentina is the safest (and richest) country I'll be travelling through, it felt good to get rid of the 3.5 kilos drawing attention from potential thieves.
Walked a bit sround in the city. A nice thing is that in the main street, it's free, open wifi. The weather was very nice, therefore I decided to go to a park to read some before returning to the terminal. My bus was leaving at 23:30. Barely got to the parks outskirts before I started looking for a bus. The mosquitoes were doing their best to eat me alive (you should be here Merete! Now they are eating me instead).
Another night at a bus, next to a very nice Uruguayan lady that really had the urge to talk. Learned a lot about both Uruguay an Mendoza, where she had lived the past twenty years. And where she has two pretty grand daughters (yes they were pretty, had to see the photos she had in her purse).
Finally at the hostel and ready for some sleep in a bed, they coudnt't find my reservation. Took an hour before I got a bed. Heading for the shower, opening the bag from the laundry, I discovered that my clean clothes was not mine. A wonderful day! Didnt't manage to sleep either, so went out for some food and new underwear.
Had a headache the entire day, which got more imtense in the evening accompanied with a running nose. The hostel seemed as a bit of a party place, so I found another one with a private room where I went in the night. Heaven to have a private room and a private bathroom!
Mendoza is famous for it's wineries. I don't exactly hate wine, so saturday I had booked a tour around the wineries. It could have been wonderful! If I just had felt better. Back at the hostel I went to the supermarket to buy food, and then I've stayed in bed since.
But if you want adventures, wine or great parties, Mendoza would be the perfect place to stay. As for being sick, I would prefer to be home. Today I'm a bit better, and right now in the Andes, my next stop Santiago de Chile. Probanly should have stayed one more day in bed, but booked my ticket on friday, so had to go. Hopefully I will be even better tomorrow, so that I can explore some of the city.
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
Didn't get to see too much of the city. Half my day disappeared in buying a small camera (christmas present from my parents) and finding a place to send my big camera back to Norway. Have hardly deared taking pictures here, and as Argentina is the safest (and richest) country I'll be travelling through, it felt good to get rid of the 3.5 kilos drawing attention from potential thieves.
Walked a bit sround in the city. A nice thing is that in the main street, it's free, open wifi. The weather was very nice, therefore I decided to go to a park to read some before returning to the terminal. My bus was leaving at 23:30. Barely got to the parks outskirts before I started looking for a bus. The mosquitoes were doing their best to eat me alive (you should be here Merete! Now they are eating me instead).
Another night at a bus, next to a very nice Uruguayan lady that really had the urge to talk. Learned a lot about both Uruguay an Mendoza, where she had lived the past twenty years. And where she has two pretty grand daughters (yes they were pretty, had to see the photos she had in her purse).
Finally at the hostel and ready for some sleep in a bed, they coudnt't find my reservation. Took an hour before I got a bed. Heading for the shower, opening the bag from the laundry, I discovered that my clean clothes was not mine. A wonderful day! Didnt't manage to sleep either, so went out for some food and new underwear.
Had a headache the entire day, which got more imtense in the evening accompanied with a running nose. The hostel seemed as a bit of a party place, so I found another one with a private room where I went in the night. Heaven to have a private room and a private bathroom!
Mendoza is famous for it's wineries. I don't exactly hate wine, so saturday I had booked a tour around the wineries. It could have been wonderful! If I just had felt better. Back at the hostel I went to the supermarket to buy food, and then I've stayed in bed since.
But if you want adventures, wine or great parties, Mendoza would be the perfect place to stay. As for being sick, I would prefer to be home. Today I'm a bit better, and right now in the Andes, my next stop Santiago de Chile. Probanly should have stayed one more day in bed, but booked my ticket on friday, so had to go. Hopefully I will be even better tomorrow, so that I can explore some of the city.
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
onsdag 18. november 2009
Puerto Iguazú
Got a bus with a bed from Buenos Aires at 5 p.m on monday, arrived the small village Puerto Iguazú yesterday at 11 a.m. Delivered my laundry and grabbed a bus to Brazil. The falls are spectacular, and nature's power just breath taking. Recommended!
Back at the hostel and ready for a shower (it's warm and humid, again), there was no water in the shower. Turned out the plumber was changing something, so the cold shower turned into a cold beer instead with the german girl I met in Buenos Aires.
Today I decided not to go the argentinian side of the falls, as I got both the overview and close-up in Brazil. Instead relaxed and tried to book plane and hotel for christmas. My bus for Rosario left at 2.45 p.m. Had to pick up my clothes that I forgot yesterday, then I discovered they were closed for siesta until 3. Frantical knocking on the door helped, eventually a lady appeared so I got my clothes. And reached my bus. So know I have another overnight bus, this time for Che's hometown Rosario.
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
Back at the hostel and ready for a shower (it's warm and humid, again), there was no water in the shower. Turned out the plumber was changing something, so the cold shower turned into a cold beer instead with the german girl I met in Buenos Aires.
Today I decided not to go the argentinian side of the falls, as I got both the overview and close-up in Brazil. Instead relaxed and tried to book plane and hotel for christmas. My bus for Rosario left at 2.45 p.m. Had to pick up my clothes that I forgot yesterday, then I discovered they were closed for siesta until 3. Frantical knocking on the door helped, eventually a lady appeared so I got my clothes. And reached my bus. So know I have another overnight bus, this time for Che's hometown Rosario.
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
mandag 16. november 2009
Montevideo
Took the ferry on saturday to Montevideo where I've spent two nights. Been nice to relax in the old city of a smaller place (well.. small.. only 1.3 million inhabitants..). Haven't been able to see or do too much as most things were closed for the weekend. Most people goes here to see the beaches, but after more than two months in the caribbean beaches still don't really attract me. Have wandered around, tried their pancakes (looks like a pizza), beer (ok), wine (not good), and yesterday I went to the old, magnificent Teatro Solis to see Macbeth. Have to admit that Shakespeare in spanish got a bit too heavy, mainly had problems staying awake.
Now I'm on the ferry back to Buenos Aires where I hope to get a bed in a bus for Puerto Iguazú later today. Have a reservation there tomorrow, and are supposed to meet a german girl there tomorrow. So I'm crossing my fingers that everything works out.
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
Now I'm on the ferry back to Buenos Aires where I hope to get a bed in a bus for Puerto Iguazú later today. Have a reservation there tomorrow, and are supposed to meet a german girl there tomorrow. So I'm crossing my fingers that everything works out.
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
fredag 13. november 2009
Buenos Aires II
Have had a wonderful week. Changed my hostel on saturday, as the one I stayed in was impossible to sleep in. A party place, not really my thing at the moment. Now I'm at a hostel located in an old building with high ceilings over five floors, including a very nice roof top terrace/bar. It has people in all ages from all over the world. Suites me a lot better.
When I had dinner on saturday a giant gay parade appeared out in the street. Took me by surprise as so many countries down here are still very conservative. But truly nice to see that some places are different! When I had lunch yesterday, a big union demonstration passed on the street outside. With all their drums impossible not to hear them. Paid in a hurry and ran after them to find out what they were demonstrating for. Was against the hopeless labour ministry.
I have had three tango classes, tango is incredibly difficult! But oh so elegant. Have learned the basics, though not feel quite secure dancing too much yet.
Have taken another spanish course this week, meaning I'm back to trying to get control over all the different times they use. Just as difficult as the tango.
Apart from that I've been wandering around in this amazing city. Spent sunday reading in the botanical garden with some delicious pastries. They have plenty of bakeries and delicious food here. A mixture of several european kitchens, both french, spanish and italian food are found everywhere. And wine, something I've missed in the other three countries. A good thing as well is that they fill up the glass completely. Plus that wine is usually cheaper than soda or water in restaurants. Back to sunday, I also visited some museums. The Evita museum was very nice. Just as the two art museums I went to. Saw a collection of Andy Warhol, new, experimental latin american art, old european paintings and so on. They had a lot! A surprise for me was that the National Museum of Art was free to visit.
Today I had an experience for life; skipped class to go sky diving. It was amazing! 10,000 feet straight down. The first 40 seconds' free fall was a sensation of another world. If you ever have the opportunity to try, seize it!
Tomorrow I'm going with a german girl, my room mate at the moment, to a tango show. Mandatory in this city, and hopefully a nice end to a great time in the South American capital before I take the boat to Uruguay on saturday.
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
When I had dinner on saturday a giant gay parade appeared out in the street. Took me by surprise as so many countries down here are still very conservative. But truly nice to see that some places are different! When I had lunch yesterday, a big union demonstration passed on the street outside. With all their drums impossible not to hear them. Paid in a hurry and ran after them to find out what they were demonstrating for. Was against the hopeless labour ministry.
I have had three tango classes, tango is incredibly difficult! But oh so elegant. Have learned the basics, though not feel quite secure dancing too much yet.
Have taken another spanish course this week, meaning I'm back to trying to get control over all the different times they use. Just as difficult as the tango.
Apart from that I've been wandering around in this amazing city. Spent sunday reading in the botanical garden with some delicious pastries. They have plenty of bakeries and delicious food here. A mixture of several european kitchens, both french, spanish and italian food are found everywhere. And wine, something I've missed in the other three countries. A good thing as well is that they fill up the glass completely. Plus that wine is usually cheaper than soda or water in restaurants. Back to sunday, I also visited some museums. The Evita museum was very nice. Just as the two art museums I went to. Saw a collection of Andy Warhol, new, experimental latin american art, old european paintings and so on. They had a lot! A surprise for me was that the National Museum of Art was free to visit.
Today I had an experience for life; skipped class to go sky diving. It was amazing! 10,000 feet straight down. The first 40 seconds' free fall was a sensation of another world. If you ever have the opportunity to try, seize it!
Tomorrow I'm going with a german girl, my room mate at the moment, to a tango show. Mandatory in this city, and hopefully a nice end to a great time in the South American capital before I take the boat to Uruguay on saturday.
-- Posted from my iPod
--> astridha.blogspot.com
torsdag 5. november 2009
Buenos Aires
One thing before I forget it; as I said it is difficult for me to tell about Dominican republic as I've stayed there too long. Quite true, just remembered a few very typical things I totally forgot. Rhum, cigars and a game of domino is the way most males spend their afternoons on the streets. Just as in Cuba. Dominicans are very proud of their rhum and cigars, which they claim are the best in the world. Another thing they are very proud of, is merengue that originated in the country. Music you can hear absolutely everywhere.
Then I can continue with my trip, as you might know I'm at the moment in the wonderful, elegant and giant capital of Argentina. Arrived yesterday early, early in the morning. Slept away half the day, as sleeping on the plane was impossible. Got a few hours in the afternoon strolling through a tiny part of the city. Those hours was enough to make me fall in love with this city, and I've already expanded my stay here with one week.
Delicious beef accompanied with a completely full glass of red wine, dessert and coffee for 5 USD. Followed by a very tasty beer in a small Plaza with tango dancers. No wonder I like it here! The city is very different from both Havana and Santo Domingo. It feels like being in Europe with a Latin American touch. Small boutiques (lucky for my wallet I can't bring anything with me) and nice cafés all over. It's also very nice to have normal air humidity again, with a touch of fresh spring. And a temperature it's possible to do things in.
-- Posted from my iPod
Then I can continue with my trip, as you might know I'm at the moment in the wonderful, elegant and giant capital of Argentina. Arrived yesterday early, early in the morning. Slept away half the day, as sleeping on the plane was impossible. Got a few hours in the afternoon strolling through a tiny part of the city. Those hours was enough to make me fall in love with this city, and I've already expanded my stay here with one week.
Delicious beef accompanied with a completely full glass of red wine, dessert and coffee for 5 USD. Followed by a very tasty beer in a small Plaza with tango dancers. No wonder I like it here! The city is very different from both Havana and Santo Domingo. It feels like being in Europe with a Latin American touch. Small boutiques (lucky for my wallet I can't bring anything with me) and nice cafés all over. It's also very nice to have normal air humidity again, with a touch of fresh spring. And a temperature it's possible to do things in.
-- Posted from my iPod
søndag 1. november 2009
Dominican republic
Been three weeks since my last update, guess it's time for a new one. I'll start with some basics about this country.
Dominican republic shares the island La Hispaniola with Haiti, located in the exotic vacation paradise the Caribbean. Haiti is one of the world's poorest countries, Dom.Rep. is "only" the third poorest in this continent. Needless to say, both countries face big problems. Yes, this is a country where tourism are growing. The huge, luxurious all-inclusive resorts are popping up all along the coast-line. The country is rich on minerals. It's lush and perfect for growing everything from oranges and bananas to rice and sugar canes. Unfortunately, not much of this benefits the main population. Corrupt politicians selling everything to foreign companies accompanied with crisis after crisis for the past years have done their job in partly erasing the middle class, making the lower class bigger and bigger and the difference between people huge. The devaluation of the currency haven't made things easier, as the salaries for many are still almost the same. Today the informal sector is the biggest here, increasing every day as the unemployment raises. And of course, as poverty raises so does crime.
The public schools are still bad, if you can't afford to pay for a private school you will be more likely to work than go to the public school. There are exceptions. But as an example, for weeks at a time the teachers won't get paid, and naturally won't go to work. What use it is to go to a school without teachers? That's why it outside rich areas and the most touristy spots can be impossible to find anyone who speaks english. Or that understand a map if you're asking for directions.
As most of you know, I speak some spanish after my year here. And the one week with a spanish course was very useful, I needed to refresh and learn some more verbs. In my opinion the most difficult part of spanish, as they conjugate every verb in endlessly many ways.
But, it's nice to be able to travel wherever I like here. And to be able to talk with locals everywhere. Roger arrived to visit me two weeks ago, so we rented a car and have been driving to almost every corner of the country. It's a small island, but diverse. You have picture-perfect white sand beaches, mountains (the highest peak 3,100 metres), mangroves, lagoons, coral-reefs, cactuses and so on.
We've been to Samaná, a small tourist-town called Las Terrenas, where we visited several beaches where we were practically alone. Had one night in Puerto Plata, with a stop at the rhum-factory. Then Monte Cristi almost at the Haitian border in the north. A quiet village with the beach El Morro, more similar to greek beaches than how you usually imagine Caribbean beaches. A small stop in Santiago at the tobacco factory and a bakery I love. Then a trip to the south-west, just south of Barahona.
We arrived back to Santo Domingo yesterday, where we have checked in to an idyllic guest-house, a former nunnery, in the old town. It's a bit expensive, luckily I've managed to get the price for dominicans, making it affordable. And very cheap for this standard and location. We also delivered the car in one piece, almost unbelivable considering the way people drive and some of the roads.
Spent some hours yesterday in a big mall finding christmas presents to my family. The earliest ever, but have to send them to Norway with Roger on monday. So the last days we'll spend relaxing here in Zona Colonial, before he leaves monday and I head for Buenos Aires on tuesday.
-- Posted from my iPod
Dominican republic shares the island La Hispaniola with Haiti, located in the exotic vacation paradise the Caribbean. Haiti is one of the world's poorest countries, Dom.Rep. is "only" the third poorest in this continent. Needless to say, both countries face big problems. Yes, this is a country where tourism are growing. The huge, luxurious all-inclusive resorts are popping up all along the coast-line. The country is rich on minerals. It's lush and perfect for growing everything from oranges and bananas to rice and sugar canes. Unfortunately, not much of this benefits the main population. Corrupt politicians selling everything to foreign companies accompanied with crisis after crisis for the past years have done their job in partly erasing the middle class, making the lower class bigger and bigger and the difference between people huge. The devaluation of the currency haven't made things easier, as the salaries for many are still almost the same. Today the informal sector is the biggest here, increasing every day as the unemployment raises. And of course, as poverty raises so does crime.
The public schools are still bad, if you can't afford to pay for a private school you will be more likely to work than go to the public school. There are exceptions. But as an example, for weeks at a time the teachers won't get paid, and naturally won't go to work. What use it is to go to a school without teachers? That's why it outside rich areas and the most touristy spots can be impossible to find anyone who speaks english. Or that understand a map if you're asking for directions.
As most of you know, I speak some spanish after my year here. And the one week with a spanish course was very useful, I needed to refresh and learn some more verbs. In my opinion the most difficult part of spanish, as they conjugate every verb in endlessly many ways.
But, it's nice to be able to travel wherever I like here. And to be able to talk with locals everywhere. Roger arrived to visit me two weeks ago, so we rented a car and have been driving to almost every corner of the country. It's a small island, but diverse. You have picture-perfect white sand beaches, mountains (the highest peak 3,100 metres), mangroves, lagoons, coral-reefs, cactuses and so on.
We've been to Samaná, a small tourist-town called Las Terrenas, where we visited several beaches where we were practically alone. Had one night in Puerto Plata, with a stop at the rhum-factory. Then Monte Cristi almost at the Haitian border in the north. A quiet village with the beach El Morro, more similar to greek beaches than how you usually imagine Caribbean beaches. A small stop in Santiago at the tobacco factory and a bakery I love. Then a trip to the south-west, just south of Barahona.
We arrived back to Santo Domingo yesterday, where we have checked in to an idyllic guest-house, a former nunnery, in the old town. It's a bit expensive, luckily I've managed to get the price for dominicans, making it affordable. And very cheap for this standard and location. We also delivered the car in one piece, almost unbelivable considering the way people drive and some of the roads.
Spent some hours yesterday in a big mall finding christmas presents to my family. The earliest ever, but have to send them to Norway with Roger on monday. So the last days we'll spend relaxing here in Zona Colonial, before he leaves monday and I head for Buenos Aires on tuesday.
-- Posted from my iPod
mandag 12. oktober 2009
Santo Domingo I
Now I've been very lazy with my blog. But as I don't really feel like I'm travelling or doing anything new at the moment, I haven't thought about my blog.
Well, I'm back in Santo Domingo in Dominican republic. For those of you who don't know it, I went here (not to Sto Dgo, but Santiago) as an exhange student in 99/00. So arriving at the airport here, I was met by a friend from school and her boyfriend, and have stayed in their house since. Until now, that I've moved to a hotel a bit closer to the old city (Zona Colonial, which by the way was America's first city), which is easier as I will take a spanish course this week.
Saturday we went to a meeting cause it was the international solidarity day with Cuba. And, they were going to talk about Che, so I'm not the one to say no! The strangest thing was that when they remembered an artist, they had one minute with applause. Not silence. But have to admit, I think that was a lot nicer than the silence we usually have!
I haven't done any sightseeing or anything here yet, as I will do that part when Roger arrives in one week. Until then I'll study spanish verbs and participate in some meetings. For instance I'll meet one of the biggest persons in the trade union's history here tomorrow (one of the few who haven't sold his soul to the companies). Looking forward to that!
¡ Hasta la victoria siempre !
Well, I'm back in Santo Domingo in Dominican republic. For those of you who don't know it, I went here (not to Sto Dgo, but Santiago) as an exhange student in 99/00. So arriving at the airport here, I was met by a friend from school and her boyfriend, and have stayed in their house since. Until now, that I've moved to a hotel a bit closer to the old city (Zona Colonial, which by the way was America's first city), which is easier as I will take a spanish course this week.
Saturday we went to a meeting cause it was the international solidarity day with Cuba. And, they were going to talk about Che, so I'm not the one to say no! The strangest thing was that when they remembered an artist, they had one minute with applause. Not silence. But have to admit, I think that was a lot nicer than the silence we usually have!
I haven't done any sightseeing or anything here yet, as I will do that part when Roger arrives in one week. Until then I'll study spanish verbs and participate in some meetings. For instance I'll meet one of the biggest persons in the trade union's history here tomorrow (one of the few who haven't sold his soul to the companies). Looking forward to that!
¡ Hasta la victoria siempre !
søndag 4. oktober 2009
Jamaica
I'm surprised no one (Åge?) has mentioned it yet, but Jamaica is not exactly part of Latin America, that I'm supposed to be exploring. Well, that's how it is when you travel with some one, you also have to listen to them. And Jamaica was a country Merete wanted to visit. It was very nice, but I'm glad to be back on track in the Latin American world.
So how was Jamaica? Yeah mon. What to say. In less than two weeks it's difficult to learn too much about another country. The thing I noticed on the airport was all the bill-boards. Difficult not to I guess, after three weeks in Cuba.
The part we stayed in first, Portland, is not a clever choice during the rainy season (now). It rained a lot, also during the day, which made it difficult to do anything. The far western part where we went afterwards, was a lot better, as it's the driest spot on the island. You have cactuses and more of a desert feeling, not like the mangrove forest in Portland.
Close to Treasure Beach, in a tiny, tiny village called Top Hill, they have a celebrity they are quite proud of; Colin Powell. Next to that village, you have one of the biggest factories on the island, a huge bauxit factory, owned by russians. At the moment just a big ghost, as the financial crisis has hit that industry with all it's power. 900 workers are now unemployed. In a small village like that, in a small country like Jamaica (only 2.9 million inhabitants), where social well-fare is at it's best a faint dream, that's a devastating blow.
torsdag 1. oktober 2009
Negril
Arrived at Xtabi, our hotel at the cliffs, on tuesday. Negril is a tourist town, although we've hardly seen any tourists. Mainly americans who travel here, but as it's the low-season now, it's quite empty. A lot of hotels and restaurants are even closed at this time. But, lucky for us, it's very cheap here now. We pay 44 USD for our room with air-con, normally it costs twice as much.
Went early to bed on tuesday, as usual. Woke up with the light, around six, without my cell-phone. Started searching on the floor, thinking I had hit it in my sleep, only to discover that my purse and backpack were laying next to the door. Definitely not the way I left them. As I have a thing with money, I always hide them all over in odd places, very happy I did that! They had searched for money, but only found about 10 USD in my wallet, and my cell-phone and iPod. My camera, that is the most expensive thing I own, was left in the room, I suppose it was too big for them to carry if they were spotted. Creepy that someone was one in our room while we were sleeping, just next to my bed!
Yesterday we were supposed to have two dives, but as we had to wait for the police, the divemaster went to his office. Not exactly trusting the police to turn up too quickly. They surprised us by arriving only three hours after the hotel-staff called them, so we could go diving before it got too late. Later in the day, the visibility is worse as are the waves. That's why we wanted to go early. The dive was great!
After that we went to Long Bay, the other part of Negril, to see the Seven mile beach. It's long, but not among my Top-10-prettiest-beaches. Took a couple of drinks and beers on the beach, trying to get rid of that creepy feeling from the night. I think the hustlers noticed my bad mood, they didn't exactly bother me much.
Today we've had two wonderful dives, seeing stingrays, dolphins (!!!) and a turtle. Just perfect! Amazing to see the big dolphin that close, absolutely something I'll remember for life.
Now we have been to the library, so that I could finally my print my flight ticket. Might need that tomorrow! Will go find some nice and expensive dinner tonight, as this is Merete's last night before travelling home to Norway. And maybe we'll manage to find a bar and stay awake later than ten o'clock? Anyway, tomorrow, very early, we're leaving for the airport. And then I'm heading back to Dominican republic, this time to meet a friend from high school there that lives in Santo Domingo. Looking forward to seeing them at the airport tomorrow!
Went early to bed on tuesday, as usual. Woke up with the light, around six, without my cell-phone. Started searching on the floor, thinking I had hit it in my sleep, only to discover that my purse and backpack were laying next to the door. Definitely not the way I left them. As I have a thing with money, I always hide them all over in odd places, very happy I did that! They had searched for money, but only found about 10 USD in my wallet, and my cell-phone and iPod. My camera, that is the most expensive thing I own, was left in the room, I suppose it was too big for them to carry if they were spotted. Creepy that someone was one in our room while we were sleeping, just next to my bed!
Yesterday we were supposed to have two dives, but as we had to wait for the police, the divemaster went to his office. Not exactly trusting the police to turn up too quickly. They surprised us by arriving only three hours after the hotel-staff called them, so we could go diving before it got too late. Later in the day, the visibility is worse as are the waves. That's why we wanted to go early. The dive was great!
After that we went to Long Bay, the other part of Negril, to see the Seven mile beach. It's long, but not among my Top-10-prettiest-beaches. Took a couple of drinks and beers on the beach, trying to get rid of that creepy feeling from the night. I think the hustlers noticed my bad mood, they didn't exactly bother me much.
Today we've had two wonderful dives, seeing stingrays, dolphins (!!!) and a turtle. Just perfect! Amazing to see the big dolphin that close, absolutely something I'll remember for life.
Now we have been to the library, so that I could finally my print my flight ticket. Might need that tomorrow! Will go find some nice and expensive dinner tonight, as this is Merete's last night before travelling home to Norway. And maybe we'll manage to find a bar and stay awake later than ten o'clock? Anyway, tomorrow, very early, we're leaving for the airport. And then I'm heading back to Dominican republic, this time to meet a friend from high school there that lives in Santo Domingo. Looking forward to seeing them at the airport tomorrow!
mandag 28. september 2009
Treasure Beach
Our last two nights in Drapers didn't turn out too nice, bad service made it the most expensive and worst place we've stayed for the past four weeks. It's an "our pick" in the Lonely Planet, but don't go to Drapers San. It should be easy to find both a cheaper and nicer place, as the area is crawling with guest houses.
Contacted a guest house in Treasure Beach which we found on the internet, turned out the owner was driving a guest on friday (the day we wanted to leave) to Manchoneal, just an hour from Drapers. Perfect for us! Even though the owner of our guest house told us there was a storm hitting Treasure Beach, so it could be dangerous, we decided to leave as planned. Happy we did! In a contrast to Drapers where it has been rain and thunder every day, we haven't seen a single drop of rain here. Or any storm. Portland (the county of Drapers) is the wettest and greenest on the island, while this is the driest and has more cactuses than mangrove trees. So don't go to Portland in the rainy season!
As for our guest house here, Nuestra Casa, it's just absolutely lovely. Big and airy, nice people and great service, spacious and clean rooms, DVDs and books, free wi-fi, the perfect roof top terrace to sun bath or watch the stars, and close to the sea and the beach Billys Bay, one of five making up the village of Treasure Beach.
The first day went buy just enjoying the place and the atmosphere. Yesterday we stayed the entire day at the YS falls, a beautiful and incredibly well maintained place. The valley has been owned by an irish family since the 1880's. Today they have 35 employees working with tourists (in the falls), and another 35 working on the farm where they breed cattle and race horses. We took a canopy tour, sliding down above the falls. Nice! Then jumped with a rope into the falls, and bathed in them before going down to an artificial pool they have made by the river. Just a fantastic day! And we were lucky with the weather, normally at this time of the year it rains daily. We had sun all day.
Today I will repeat the day before yesterday, just taking in the atmosphere here before we leave tomorrow for Negril. Which is more of a touristy place, naturally you might say, because of their Seven mile beach.
-- Posted from my iPod
Contacted a guest house in Treasure Beach which we found on the internet, turned out the owner was driving a guest on friday (the day we wanted to leave) to Manchoneal, just an hour from Drapers. Perfect for us! Even though the owner of our guest house told us there was a storm hitting Treasure Beach, so it could be dangerous, we decided to leave as planned. Happy we did! In a contrast to Drapers where it has been rain and thunder every day, we haven't seen a single drop of rain here. Or any storm. Portland (the county of Drapers) is the wettest and greenest on the island, while this is the driest and has more cactuses than mangrove trees. So don't go to Portland in the rainy season!
As for our guest house here, Nuestra Casa, it's just absolutely lovely. Big and airy, nice people and great service, spacious and clean rooms, DVDs and books, free wi-fi, the perfect roof top terrace to sun bath or watch the stars, and close to the sea and the beach Billys Bay, one of five making up the village of Treasure Beach.
The first day went buy just enjoying the place and the atmosphere. Yesterday we stayed the entire day at the YS falls, a beautiful and incredibly well maintained place. The valley has been owned by an irish family since the 1880's. Today they have 35 employees working with tourists (in the falls), and another 35 working on the farm where they breed cattle and race horses. We took a canopy tour, sliding down above the falls. Nice! Then jumped with a rope into the falls, and bathed in them before going down to an artificial pool they have made by the river. Just a fantastic day! And we were lucky with the weather, normally at this time of the year it rains daily. We had sun all day.
Today I will repeat the day before yesterday, just taking in the atmosphere here before we leave tomorrow for Negril. Which is more of a touristy place, naturally you might say, because of their Seven mile beach.
-- Posted from my iPod
fredag 25. september 2009
Port Antonio
Airport in Kingston, Jamaica on monday:
Woman: Do you have your return ticket?
Me: I'm leaving third of october.
W: Do you have the ticket?
M: I've been to Cuba and they have poor internet and no printers.
W: You didn't print it at home?
M: No.
W: Well, where are you going after Santo Domingo?
M: I don't know.
W: Don' know?
M: I will travel for a year and don't know where I'm going next.
W: Oh. So then you have a lot of money?
A nod from me, big smile from her and I was through. A Norwegian passport is a very good thing to have! And I didn't even have to lie and tell her that I had a ticket. I just never said I didn't..
Thanks to my better half in Norway, that helped us e-mail a couple of guest houses before we arrived (which was almost impossible in Cuba, as mentioned several times, and extremely expensive), we got picked up by a driver at the airport. So we got straight to our nice home at Drapers San, without having to go into Kingston. Quite nice, as Jamaica is the country in the world (not at war) with the most killings, most of them happening in Kingston.
As we are in the middle of the hurricane/rainy season, we've had a lot of bad weather here. Tuesday I mostly stayed in my room (for the first time since I left home I have MY room!) reading, except for a small snorkelling trip just down by where we live.
In the night a thunder storm hit us with all it's power, pretty similar to the one we had in Viñales. It lasted all evening and night. The light went out for about an hour (happy I had my head light!), our host told me that was normal here, happens once a week. Usually when they get in big drug shipments. If it was that or just the weather was impossible to tell.
Today we've had two wonderful dives with a very good diving centre (the opposite of Cuba), along a nice wall and some well preserved corals. Saw mainly just the ordinary fishes, but also a huge crab down at 20 metres. Wouldn't like to get close to those claws!
Now we're at a small mall, getting a pedicure. Needed after all our walking in the past three weeks. Not to mention all the blisters. Soon home for some dinner, they make wonderful food at our guest house. And then tomorrow we'll try, if the weather is ok, to take a boat trip up a river and to some beaches. Before we in the evening leave for Treasure Beach, as far away from here you can go on this island. Which means about five hours driving. I'm not sure of the distance, but that's five hours on horrible roads. So it's a really small island.
-- Posted from my iPod
Woman: Do you have your return ticket?
Me: I'm leaving third of october.
W: Do you have the ticket?
M: I've been to Cuba and they have poor internet and no printers.
W: You didn't print it at home?
M: No.
W: Well, where are you going after Santo Domingo?
M: I don't know.
W: Don' know?
M: I will travel for a year and don't know where I'm going next.
W: Oh. So then you have a lot of money?
A nod from me, big smile from her and I was through. A Norwegian passport is a very good thing to have! And I didn't even have to lie and tell her that I had a ticket. I just never said I didn't..
Thanks to my better half in Norway, that helped us e-mail a couple of guest houses before we arrived (which was almost impossible in Cuba, as mentioned several times, and extremely expensive), we got picked up by a driver at the airport. So we got straight to our nice home at Drapers San, without having to go into Kingston. Quite nice, as Jamaica is the country in the world (not at war) with the most killings, most of them happening in Kingston.
As we are in the middle of the hurricane/rainy season, we've had a lot of bad weather here. Tuesday I mostly stayed in my room (for the first time since I left home I have MY room!) reading, except for a small snorkelling trip just down by where we live.
In the night a thunder storm hit us with all it's power, pretty similar to the one we had in Viñales. It lasted all evening and night. The light went out for about an hour (happy I had my head light!), our host told me that was normal here, happens once a week. Usually when they get in big drug shipments. If it was that or just the weather was impossible to tell.
Today we've had two wonderful dives with a very good diving centre (the opposite of Cuba), along a nice wall and some well preserved corals. Saw mainly just the ordinary fishes, but also a huge crab down at 20 metres. Wouldn't like to get close to those claws!
Now we're at a small mall, getting a pedicure. Needed after all our walking in the past three weeks. Not to mention all the blisters. Soon home for some dinner, they make wonderful food at our guest house. And then tomorrow we'll try, if the weather is ok, to take a boat trip up a river and to some beaches. Before we in the evening leave for Treasure Beach, as far away from here you can go on this island. Which means about five hours driving. I'm not sure of the distance, but that's five hours on horrible roads. So it's a really small island.
-- Posted from my iPod
mandag 21. september 2009
Cuba
Sitting at the airport, ready to leave this island. Arriving at the airport, the screen said Montego Bay instead of Kingston, that we thought we were going to. "Oh no, we have to stay here longer" was my first thought. Turned out it was just the screen that was wrong, the plane was actually going to Kingston. Still a bit nervous for the immigration control in Jamaica though, as I don't have a ticket for Santo Domingo, and you must have a return or onward ticket to be able to enter the country. I'm crossing my fingers and hoping it's enough to have a norwegian passport.
Then, back to what I really wanted to tell you about; Cuba. The people are quite similar to the Dominicans, except maybe a bit more relaxed (especially in clothing), the main difference is the government. Having seen the sold-out Dominican republic, it was nice to see another possible way. Even if things are far from perfect in Cuba, there is not a lot of poverty and the cubans own Cuba. Not the americans or the mexicans. They also have a very strong national pride, maybe difficult not to have in a country with so much propaganda everywhere. Even in the most remote areas you'll find quotes from Fidel and Che.
The propaganda is everywhere. Still people are very found of Fidel, he has a charisma that makes his people love him. His brother is a totally different person. Fidel is the charismatic leader of the people, talking without a written speach in his hand. While Raul is a man of the military, cold (he never smiles on TV) and he just reads his written speach. As for now he is the official president, but it seems as if he is just the puppet for Fidel which still unofficially rules the country. What happens when Fidel dies is difficult say. Even if the people doesn't love Raul in the same way that they love Fidel, he will be one of two leaders from the revolution still alive, and that alone will probably keep him in power. Cubans themselves believe things gradually will change, but gradually is the essencial word. No one believes in any quick changes.
As for travelling, Cuba is a nice place to visit. The bus you have to take between cities is a bit expensive. But the cheap accomodation and food balances that, it's very cheap to stay here! You have private houses (casas particulares) all over, where it's excellent to stay. Hotels are mostly a bad deal, partly because they are state owned with horrible service. And very over priced compared to the standard you are used to in other countries.
Of course, you have the music, rhum and cigars as expected. All over. As for beggars and hustlers, I think it was ok. At least I didn't get too annoyed. All in all, nice three weeks!
¡¡Viva la revolucion!!
-- Post From My iPhone
Then, back to what I really wanted to tell you about; Cuba. The people are quite similar to the Dominicans, except maybe a bit more relaxed (especially in clothing), the main difference is the government. Having seen the sold-out Dominican republic, it was nice to see another possible way. Even if things are far from perfect in Cuba, there is not a lot of poverty and the cubans own Cuba. Not the americans or the mexicans. They also have a very strong national pride, maybe difficult not to have in a country with so much propaganda everywhere. Even in the most remote areas you'll find quotes from Fidel and Che.
The propaganda is everywhere. Still people are very found of Fidel, he has a charisma that makes his people love him. His brother is a totally different person. Fidel is the charismatic leader of the people, talking without a written speach in his hand. While Raul is a man of the military, cold (he never smiles on TV) and he just reads his written speach. As for now he is the official president, but it seems as if he is just the puppet for Fidel which still unofficially rules the country. What happens when Fidel dies is difficult say. Even if the people doesn't love Raul in the same way that they love Fidel, he will be one of two leaders from the revolution still alive, and that alone will probably keep him in power. Cubans themselves believe things gradually will change, but gradually is the essencial word. No one believes in any quick changes.
As for travelling, Cuba is a nice place to visit. The bus you have to take between cities is a bit expensive. But the cheap accomodation and food balances that, it's very cheap to stay here! You have private houses (casas particulares) all over, where it's excellent to stay. Hotels are mostly a bad deal, partly because they are state owned with horrible service. And very over priced compared to the standard you are used to in other countries.
Of course, you have the music, rhum and cigars as expected. All over. As for beggars and hustlers, I think it was ok. At least I didn't get too annoyed. All in all, nice three weeks!
¡¡Viva la revolucion!!
-- Post From My iPhone
søndag 20. september 2009
Havana - once more
After twenty hours travelling, we got back to Havana on friday. Finally installed in a house (had some problems, so took a while) I went straight to bed. Slept almost until the afternoon, then I was so hungry that we had to get out for some food. Found an Italian restaurant, with quite nice food. It was good to taste chees that had actually been into an oven. Those little things you suddenly appreciate when travelling. Like the toilet at the hotel we went to afterwards to use the internet (one of two in Cuba with wi-fi), the first I've been to here with a toilet-seat, lockable door, water and soap. Luxury!
Grabbed a beer in the park nearby afterwards, where there was a small consert. And then a couple of drinks in a tiny bar with sports on the tv. Slept until eleven yesterday, before we went out to see a couple of the things we missed last time. Of course on a saturday the tobacco-factory was closed. But we got a tour inside El Capitolio, an impressive building which it took 5000 workers three years to build.
Today we went to Plaza de la Revolucion for a huge peace concert, "Concierto paz sin fronteras". It was crowded, on tv now they said it was 1,050,000 that had gathered on the plaza. It was insane with so many people in the middle of the day under the horrendously hot sun dancing and moving like one big organism. De verdad, ¡una locura!
Now we're back at the room under the fans, trying to achieve a normal body-temperature before going out for some dinner. And to use the internet once more, have to try and find a place to stay tomorrow in Jamaica. Well, that means our days in Cuba are ending.
¡Viva la revolucion!
-- Post From My iPhone
Grabbed a beer in the park nearby afterwards, where there was a small consert. And then a couple of drinks in a tiny bar with sports on the tv. Slept until eleven yesterday, before we went out to see a couple of the things we missed last time. Of course on a saturday the tobacco-factory was closed. But we got a tour inside El Capitolio, an impressive building which it took 5000 workers three years to build.
Today we went to Plaza de la Revolucion for a huge peace concert, "Concierto paz sin fronteras". It was crowded, on tv now they said it was 1,050,000 that had gathered on the plaza. It was insane with so many people in the middle of the day under the horrendously hot sun dancing and moving like one big organism. De verdad, ¡una locura!
Now we're back at the room under the fans, trying to achieve a normal body-temperature before going out for some dinner. And to use the internet once more, have to try and find a place to stay tomorrow in Jamaica. Well, that means our days in Cuba are ending.
¡Viva la revolucion!
-- Post From My iPhone
torsdag 17. september 2009
Baracoa
Arrived here on saturday, it's a five hour bus-trip from Santiago. Not too long, and a beautiful road past Guantanamo first and then up through the mountains (or hills that I'd rather call them), to this small city in the north-east. Five hundred years ago this was the first place Columbus arrived in Cuba, and therefore it also for a short while was the Cuban capital.
Today it's a bit rusty and could need a lot of paint. Among some other things. Still it has the charm and calm of a village, which is it with it's 12,000 inhabitants, and you very soon recognize people around town. The area is full of Cocoa and Coco-trees, and the people are quite proud of their chocolate. Of course there is both an ice-cream and chocolate-factory here.
The main thing attracting tourists to this remote place, is the nature surrounding it. We went to the fantastic Playa Maguana on monday, a wonderful day and the first this far without a ton of sweat. It was just us (me, Merete, Kirsten and Yuri), an entire pig-family and the people working there. Fresh giant shrimps from the river nearby for lunch, mojito with a taste of mint, and the entire day in the nice waves. It was just great!
The day after, on tuesday, we decided to get on top of El Yunque, a very special mountain that is the symbol of Baracoa. It's a ten kilometre walk to the top, that rises 560 metres above sea level. Sure, for Norwegians that doesn't sound too difficult, but in the heat here it was no easy task. So really proud that we managed to get to the top!
In the evening, after dinner and some sleep, we went out for a beer with Kirsten and Yuri, a dutch couple living in our house that we've met several times throughout Cuba. Just me and Merete also walked to the park on saturday, but then it was all quiet. I learned the day after it was because one of the leaders from the revolution, the third commandant, died on saturday. But this monday it didnt't turn out quite so quiet, we didn't return to our house until half past three. Drinking rhum, talking and dancing turned this into a very nice night.
I should have been exhausted when finally in bed, but couldn't sleep. So after breakfast I returned to bed and spent half the day sleeping. Actually nice with a day doing as little as possible.
Spent yesterday going to Yumuri, a small village thirty kilometres from Baracoa. Luckily there was a finnish couple sharing the taxi with us so didn't turn out too expensive. Regretted a little that we didn't rather just go back to Playa Maguana.
Spent the evening reading and relaxing at home. And eating way too much for supper, as usual in this house. But it was strange to be just me and Merete for supper, the past four nights we've been eating with Kirsten and Yuri, but they left that morning.
Casa de William has been very nice to stay in, and his wife (as well as himself), are excellent cooks. For example the first night we ate the most delicious lobster.
After five nights here we're on the bus now back to Santiago. Will get some supper there, before catching the night-bus at ten to Havana. Luckily my last way-too-long-busride-from-hell in a long time. Neither Jamaica nor the Dominican republic are big enough for that to be possible.
-- Post From My iPhone
Today it's a bit rusty and could need a lot of paint. Among some other things. Still it has the charm and calm of a village, which is it with it's 12,000 inhabitants, and you very soon recognize people around town. The area is full of Cocoa and Coco-trees, and the people are quite proud of their chocolate. Of course there is both an ice-cream and chocolate-factory here.
The main thing attracting tourists to this remote place, is the nature surrounding it. We went to the fantastic Playa Maguana on monday, a wonderful day and the first this far without a ton of sweat. It was just us (me, Merete, Kirsten and Yuri), an entire pig-family and the people working there. Fresh giant shrimps from the river nearby for lunch, mojito with a taste of mint, and the entire day in the nice waves. It was just great!
The day after, on tuesday, we decided to get on top of El Yunque, a very special mountain that is the symbol of Baracoa. It's a ten kilometre walk to the top, that rises 560 metres above sea level. Sure, for Norwegians that doesn't sound too difficult, but in the heat here it was no easy task. So really proud that we managed to get to the top!
In the evening, after dinner and some sleep, we went out for a beer with Kirsten and Yuri, a dutch couple living in our house that we've met several times throughout Cuba. Just me and Merete also walked to the park on saturday, but then it was all quiet. I learned the day after it was because one of the leaders from the revolution, the third commandant, died on saturday. But this monday it didnt't turn out quite so quiet, we didn't return to our house until half past three. Drinking rhum, talking and dancing turned this into a very nice night.
I should have been exhausted when finally in bed, but couldn't sleep. So after breakfast I returned to bed and spent half the day sleeping. Actually nice with a day doing as little as possible.
Spent yesterday going to Yumuri, a small village thirty kilometres from Baracoa. Luckily there was a finnish couple sharing the taxi with us so didn't turn out too expensive. Regretted a little that we didn't rather just go back to Playa Maguana.
Spent the evening reading and relaxing at home. And eating way too much for supper, as usual in this house. But it was strange to be just me and Merete for supper, the past four nights we've been eating with Kirsten and Yuri, but they left that morning.
Casa de William has been very nice to stay in, and his wife (as well as himself), are excellent cooks. For example the first night we ate the most delicious lobster.
After five nights here we're on the bus now back to Santiago. Will get some supper there, before catching the night-bus at ten to Havana. Luckily my last way-too-long-busride-from-hell in a long time. Neither Jamaica nor the Dominican republic are big enough for that to be possible.
-- Post From My iPhone
Santiago de Cuba
Arrived tuesday morning at half past six. Got some breakfast and went straight to bed, slept until lunch-time. Our house, casa de Tati, or casa de Ana Romero which is her real name, is located just a few blocks from the main square, so we took a stroll through town for some food and something to drink.
The city seemed much more calm and safe than Havana, and it was easier to feel the citys soul. That together with our lovely hostess and house, not to forget Anas delicious food, has made these four days some of the best this far. It has been really nice to just lay in the hammock at our roof-top terrace reading and truly relaxing, with the smell and sounds of the city in the distance.
Sure, we've been to some of the bad museums as well. And the Castillo del Morro, a really nice and well preserved fort about ten kilometres from town. Sadly very hot, as usual, when we walked around there.
Wednesday we found a nail-salon, run by a woman and her daughter in front of their entrance (so it was just a table), where Merete got her first manicure and pedicure ever, to the womans big surprise. How is it possible not to do your nails once a week? It was incredibly cheap, even if they charged us twice the normal price, we payed only one USD each. I like it here!
As we have been here four nights, we've spent two of those trying to stay awake longer than until ten. Not an easy task. Two of the places recommended by the LP wad closed when we arrived. Casa de la Trova, with great live music, has been open, so we went there a couple of times. Nice place, even though I have some problems sitting among such a huge group of tourists (bussed in from some big hotels outside town), watching how they embarass themselves dancing with the gigolos. Yesterday after leaving there, we found the real party; in the park on the way home. They had big speakers with nice music (dominican bachata!) and the young cubans (as well as the city's originals) were gathering there. Nice!
I haven't mentioned it, but it might be obvious when all of the posts from Cuba arrive at the same time; the internet here is hopeless. There is no wi-fi anywhere, and the connection is pre-historical; they only have modems. It's been a long time since I've heard that "I'll call later when he's finished with the internet". Therefore we have had big problems buying tickets from Cuba on the web as we're used to. In the end we had to go to the airline's office to get tickets for Jamaica. And we have to get early to Havana, to buy tickets from Jamaica, so that we'll get a visa to enter the country. A nice thing to have. And no, we couldn't buy those tickets here in Santiago. They were not allowed to sell them here.
-- Post From My iPhone
The city seemed much more calm and safe than Havana, and it was easier to feel the citys soul. That together with our lovely hostess and house, not to forget Anas delicious food, has made these four days some of the best this far. It has been really nice to just lay in the hammock at our roof-top terrace reading and truly relaxing, with the smell and sounds of the city in the distance.
Sure, we've been to some of the bad museums as well. And the Castillo del Morro, a really nice and well preserved fort about ten kilometres from town. Sadly very hot, as usual, when we walked around there.
Wednesday we found a nail-salon, run by a woman and her daughter in front of their entrance (so it was just a table), where Merete got her first manicure and pedicure ever, to the womans big surprise. How is it possible not to do your nails once a week? It was incredibly cheap, even if they charged us twice the normal price, we payed only one USD each. I like it here!
As we have been here four nights, we've spent two of those trying to stay awake longer than until ten. Not an easy task. Two of the places recommended by the LP wad closed when we arrived. Casa de la Trova, with great live music, has been open, so we went there a couple of times. Nice place, even though I have some problems sitting among such a huge group of tourists (bussed in from some big hotels outside town), watching how they embarass themselves dancing with the gigolos. Yesterday after leaving there, we found the real party; in the park on the way home. They had big speakers with nice music (dominican bachata!) and the young cubans (as well as the city's originals) were gathering there. Nice!
I haven't mentioned it, but it might be obvious when all of the posts from Cuba arrive at the same time; the internet here is hopeless. There is no wi-fi anywhere, and the connection is pre-historical; they only have modems. It's been a long time since I've heard that "I'll call later when he's finished with the internet". Therefore we have had big problems buying tickets from Cuba on the web as we're used to. In the end we had to go to the airline's office to get tickets for Jamaica. And we have to get early to Havana, to buy tickets from Jamaica, so that we'll get a visa to enter the country. A nice thing to have. And no, we couldn't buy those tickets here in Santiago. They were not allowed to sell them here.
-- Post From My iPhone
On the road again!
This time really on the road. Started the day with a 4 hour taxi-ride to Pinar del Rio. That includes 1 hour waiting in a bank to get out money because of this hopeless woman that didn't know how to use the computer. After the long wait, our driver started stressing and driving like hell because he was afraid of an upset boss. I'm happy to still be in one piece!
Then we had about one hour waiting for the bus back to Havana. Luckily this time the air-condition on the bus works! We're hoping to catch the bus at 6 pm for Santiago. Which means about 16 hours more in a bus. So this will be a long day and night. But when we arrive tomorrow morning we will have crossed the country from the far west and almost to the far east.
-- Post From My iPhone
Then we had about one hour waiting for the bus back to Havana. Luckily this time the air-condition on the bus works! We're hoping to catch the bus at 6 pm for Santiago. Which means about 16 hours more in a bus. So this will be a long day and night. But when we arrive tomorrow morning we will have crossed the country from the far west and almost to the far east.
-- Post From My iPhone
mandag 7. september 2009
Maria la Gorda
Or Maria la Bonita that it rather should be called out here. The whole area is a national park, with a very rich fauna both on land and in the sea.
We have stayed two nights at the only hotel here, and have had two dives. It was wonderful to dive in a wetsuit again! Both dives went well, but the last one was the best, with a nice wall and also it was much deeper.
The only action out here except for the diving has been a cat-fight next to our dinnertable (the place is crawling with cats), and a frog in our toilet. And also a whole bunch of annoying sand-flies. It has been nice to relax for a while, but I'm looking forward to get into a city again. It just isn't quite so nice to stay in a beautiful and romantic place, and eating dinner at the beach in the sunset, with Roger in Norway. So tomorrow we're heading back to Vinales where hopefully there will be a bus for Havana, so that we can catch the bus for Santiago in the evening.
-- Post From My iPhone
We have stayed two nights at the only hotel here, and have had two dives. It was wonderful to dive in a wetsuit again! Both dives went well, but the last one was the best, with a nice wall and also it was much deeper.
The only action out here except for the diving has been a cat-fight next to our dinnertable (the place is crawling with cats), and a frog in our toilet. And also a whole bunch of annoying sand-flies. It has been nice to relax for a while, but I'm looking forward to get into a city again. It just isn't quite so nice to stay in a beautiful and romantic place, and eating dinner at the beach in the sunset, with Roger in Norway. So tomorrow we're heading back to Vinales where hopefully there will be a bus for Havana, so that we can catch the bus for Santiago in the evening.
-- Post From My iPhone
lørdag 5. september 2009
Viñales
Two nights spent in Viñales at the house of the sweetest woman, Geo, who makes the best chicken I've ever tasted. Viñales is a rural, relaxed and cosy village. It was a nice change from the hot and busy capital to be able to just sit outside on the terrace in the evening with neighbours passing by all the time. And not to forget; all the animals. For dinner we had a rooster, a dog, a kitten and her mother around our feet. And horses and ox-wagons passing in the street.
In the afternoon the day we arrived we had the worst lightning and thunder I've experienced. It lasted for a few hours and struck several places in the neighbourhood. Including next to our closest neighbour who got their phone and tv broken.
The second day we went horseback-riding for 4 hours, with Geos nephew. And I don't even like horses. I survived! And the trip was great. We got to see this beautiful valley, and a cave with a natural pool 250 meters inside the mountain. The closest I get to feeling religious is when seeing natural wonders like this. It was just magnificent.
Also we had this mandatory stop at a house where they dry tobacco. At this time of the year the house is filled with corn which they grow now before the tobacco season.
-- Post From My iPhone
In the afternoon the day we arrived we had the worst lightning and thunder I've experienced. It lasted for a few hours and struck several places in the neighbourhood. Including next to our closest neighbour who got their phone and tv broken.
The second day we went horseback-riding for 4 hours, with Geos nephew. And I don't even like horses. I survived! And the trip was great. We got to see this beautiful valley, and a cave with a natural pool 250 meters inside the mountain. The closest I get to feeling religious is when seeing natural wonders like this. It was just magnificent.
Also we had this mandatory stop at a house where they dry tobacco. At this time of the year the house is filled with corn which they grow now before the tobacco season.
-- Post From My iPhone
torsdag 3. september 2009
La Habana
We've spent three nights in the Cuban capital, and even though I've been exhausted, have slept badly and it has been incredibly humid and hot, I love the atmosphere of this strange place.
Oh, and it has to be impossible to be a graphic designer here, there are hardly any signs or logos anywhere, except for propaganda that is. But I have to admit, it feels kind of refreshing to walk around without neon signs, posters and billboards everywhere. Even I get a chance to watch buildings and people, instead of fonts and colors.
Of course once here, we've been to the Museo de la revolucion and Ches house that's now a museum. It's strange to see how much of the revolution is still around. Even in stores you'll find a lot of Fidels quotes. The best has been just sitting in a cafe wathing people and sipping way too strong cuba libres.
Now we're leaving for Vinales, a small town in the west. Our wonderful host, Ramon, has helped us finding a place to stay there and the lady will meet us at the bus station when we arrive.
Hasta la victoria siempre!
-- Post From My iPhone
Oh, and it has to be impossible to be a graphic designer here, there are hardly any signs or logos anywhere, except for propaganda that is. But I have to admit, it feels kind of refreshing to walk around without neon signs, posters and billboards everywhere. Even I get a chance to watch buildings and people, instead of fonts and colors.
Of course once here, we've been to the Museo de la revolucion and Ches house that's now a museum. It's strange to see how much of the revolution is still around. Even in stores you'll find a lot of Fidels quotes. The best has been just sitting in a cafe wathing people and sipping way too strong cuba libres.
Now we're leaving for Vinales, a small town in the west. Our wonderful host, Ramon, has helped us finding a place to stay there and the lady will meet us at the bus station when we arrive.
Hasta la victoria siempre!
-- Post From My iPhone
tirsdag 1. september 2009
On the road!
Or maybe in the air is more precise. Finally we're on the way to La Habana. But oh so tired. In Norway it's 18, in Cuba it's 12 o'clock. And I've already been awake for 14 hours, had to get up at 4 this morning (or night) to catch the flight from Oslo. This will be a long day! Still 8 hours left just in the air today.
We took a small trip into Frankfurt when waiting for the plane (for 6 hours), because Merete needed a pair of pants. The only thing we found was coffee. And of course, luckily; the way back to the airport.
Finally aboard the plane, with other tourists and a whole bunch of crazy cubans. An entire family was holding up the line in front of us when boarding, trying to convince the staff that they didn't have too much hand-luggage. That didn't help (and it seemed as if they carried everything they owned).
Anyway; we're closing in on the Caribbean. Just a good nights sleep, and we're ready to hit the road!
-- Post From My iPhone
We took a small trip into Frankfurt when waiting for the plane (for 6 hours), because Merete needed a pair of pants. The only thing we found was coffee. And of course, luckily; the way back to the airport.
Finally aboard the plane, with other tourists and a whole bunch of crazy cubans. An entire family was holding up the line in front of us when boarding, trying to convince the staff that they didn't have too much hand-luggage. That didn't help (and it seemed as if they carried everything they owned).
Anyway; we're closing in on the Caribbean. Just a good nights sleep, and we're ready to hit the road!
-- Post From My iPhone
tirsdag 25. august 2009
Departure is getting close!
Now I'm sitting on the floor in an almost empty apartment. I've packed my backpack today, and oh my god how little I can bring! I who thought it would be an easy task to pack it, had to try several times before everything could fit. And still I wonder if maybe I should take out more things. It would be a nice thing to be able to carry it myself...
I've sold almost all of my large furniture, an excellent way to be moving on. Especially when you live on the third floor (without an elevator), I'm very happy not to have to carry everything down. The bedrooms and bathroom are now empty, just need some cleaning. Of course there are some things left in the living room, but it looks like I can get everything under control tonight. Then I can empty the apartment tomorrow, and clean on thursday. And maybe even get the time for a nice, cold Mack-beer in the evening. Looking good!
Also I have to spend some time thursday in the city fixing some last things. Like voting and buying euros and dollars. Then I'm off for our capital on friday morning!
fredag 7. august 2009
Where is the time
...flying away??
There are so much left, all of those little things that has to be in order before I leave.
Papers that has to be ready for next year when I need to apply for the university. Oh, and I also have to decide what to study. Not an easy task. Law, economy or the Middle-East? Decisions, decisions.
Finally my things seems to be going away. My old iPod, Playstation 2, refrigerator and so on. But yet a lot to sell, looks like I need to take som photos soon and start advertising. Not just mailing friends. Also I have to decide what to sell and what to keep. Books, DVDs and other stuff that right now is filling up my apartment.
But apart from all of those things, at least my travelling gear is ready! I have my backpack, travelling towel, travelling silk sleeping-bag and a lot of other tiny, tiny things that will be my companions for a year. The only thing I'm missing, is an alarm-clock. So almost ready to travel!
Just not so ready to leave yet. Well, guess I just have to start working on that. Only 3 weeks left in Tromsø!
There are so much left, all of those little things that has to be in order before I leave.
Papers that has to be ready for next year when I need to apply for the university. Oh, and I also have to decide what to study. Not an easy task. Law, economy or the Middle-East? Decisions, decisions.
Finally my things seems to be going away. My old iPod, Playstation 2, refrigerator and so on. But yet a lot to sell, looks like I need to take som photos soon and start advertising. Not just mailing friends. Also I have to decide what to sell and what to keep. Books, DVDs and other stuff that right now is filling up my apartment.
But apart from all of those things, at least my travelling gear is ready! I have my backpack, travelling towel, travelling silk sleeping-bag and a lot of other tiny, tiny things that will be my companions for a year. The only thing I'm missing, is an alarm-clock. So almost ready to travel!
Just not so ready to leave yet. Well, guess I just have to start working on that. Only 3 weeks left in Tromsø!
onsdag 29. juli 2009
...soon I'm on my way!
A kind nurse has shot me with a needle several times, I've got 4 more weeks to work, my stuff is starting to get new owners and I have an iPod Touch; I'm getting ready to leave Tromsø!
Still there are things to be done. It's so much to remember! Luckily I have some time left, even though it seems to be flying away at the moment. Just two more weekends in Tromsø before I leave! Some butterflies are starting to arrive, and I'm getting anxious to get on the road. There are so much waiting in the distance! On the other hand it's kind of scary, almost the same feeling I had before I bungy-jumped. Just a bit more sad, some of the things and persons I'm leaving behind I know it will be difficult to say goodbye to. A colleague asked me a while ago if I really was looking forward to leave my work and the city. As I told her, I'm not looking forward to leave anything. I'm looking forward to meeting new people. Getting aquainted with new cultures. Exploring a new continent.
The first month a friend from Tromsø will travel with me, our first stop is Havana. We might spend the entire month there, or maybe move on to Jamaica or another island. When she goes back home, I will leave for Santo Domingo, the capital of Dominican republic. My plan is to get a couple of weeks in a spanish course to refresh my spanish quickly. And then hopefully I will be so lucky that I will get the chance to do some volunteer work for an organisation my friend (that I'm visiting there) is involved in. How long I'll be staying there I don't know. I just know that I'm looking forward to visit the republic again! And if any of you dominicans are reading this; just send me an e-mail if you'd like to take a cup of coffee. O tal vez una Presidente. Probably I won't be going to Stgo. this time, but who knows.
Time will show where I'll be spending my next year!
Still there are things to be done. It's so much to remember! Luckily I have some time left, even though it seems to be flying away at the moment. Just two more weekends in Tromsø before I leave! Some butterflies are starting to arrive, and I'm getting anxious to get on the road. There are so much waiting in the distance! On the other hand it's kind of scary, almost the same feeling I had before I bungy-jumped. Just a bit more sad, some of the things and persons I'm leaving behind I know it will be difficult to say goodbye to. A colleague asked me a while ago if I really was looking forward to leave my work and the city. As I told her, I'm not looking forward to leave anything. I'm looking forward to meeting new people. Getting aquainted with new cultures. Exploring a new continent.
The first month a friend from Tromsø will travel with me, our first stop is Havana. We might spend the entire month there, or maybe move on to Jamaica or another island. When she goes back home, I will leave for Santo Domingo, the capital of Dominican republic. My plan is to get a couple of weeks in a spanish course to refresh my spanish quickly. And then hopefully I will be so lucky that I will get the chance to do some volunteer work for an organisation my friend (that I'm visiting there) is involved in. How long I'll be staying there I don't know. I just know that I'm looking forward to visit the republic again! And if any of you dominicans are reading this; just send me an e-mail if you'd like to take a cup of coffee. O tal vez una Presidente. Probably I won't be going to Stgo. this time, but who knows.
Time will show where I'll be spending my next year!
Abonner på:
Kommentarer (Atom)