Well...Beach life....hmmm....
It's not the life for me. I'm currently in Borocay, Philippines. My first experience at the true, picture perfect beach atmosphere, white beaches, teal blue water, fruity drinks, etc.
It's been nice to experience this, but it also lets me know that I prefer the mountains. I find nothing more relaxing than just walking and walking for hours thru trees, where peace and quite are easy to feel. I love the sound of the ocean waves, but I've come to truly hate sand! Sand in my hair, stuck on my arms, legs, sand in my shoes, in my camera, ugh..... I love the way the trees protect me from the sun too!
I am still really enjoying my trip and I am learning lots about myself and about the Philippines. Though, I've decided to head back to Taiwan early. I'm tired of being in a country full of dishonest people. Everywhere I go people seem to be trying to rip me off or just get the most money out of me as possible. It gets real old, so do the shitty conditions of places to stay, food to eat, water, etc.
Living and traveling abroad and working on the Indian Reservations has made me realize how lucky Americans are and they don't know it! (once again!) I miss being able to turn on my faucet in the house and just drink the damn water out of it! I miss being able to turn the shower on and have nice warm water come out of it. People in American don't realize this, but most countries don't have these water luxuiries. Americans need to wake up and say "thank you" to the fact that water is easy for them to have, use and get.
Really...when I travel I've learned that I prefer to travel with someone. It's so much more fun to have someone to share my experience with and a shoulder to lean on. I needed to travel alone to do this for myself, to tell my kids one day that I was able to step out of my comfort box, take a risk and do something on my own, to hopefully inspire them to do it was well. But, Backpacking is a tiring affair. By the time I leave I will have traveled for about 20 days. That is enough for me. Also, if I was a male I would feel completely different. I do not feel safe traveling alone in the Philippines. I don't like the looks I get from the Pilipino men....it is scary....
Another realization is that I truly am a "homebody". My heart has spelled out for me what is important to me, one is travel, but most importantly it is being in a place where it feels like "home" where I can relax, be around good people and just take my time. What is amazing is that I feel like Yuanlin gives me this. I look forward to going back to Taiwan where I have a family of great friends waiting for me and plenty adventure around every weekend!
It's been good to step out of the Taiwan forest and be able to see all the trees in my life. I've accomplished everything I've wanted to get out of this experience and I feel successful. Stay tuned for more insights.....this trip will bring many more to my mind......
