|
Conclusion posted Wednesday, November 24, 2004
No teacher or books could teach the things that I learned traveling. I prefer to call myself a traveler or a backpacker, but not a tourist. I don't like being caught dumb founded or lost. It usually took me less then 30 secs to pull out my camera take a picture and hide it again. Especially when the pictures were of toilets.
While in British Columbia, I spent all of my time on Vancouver Island. Up north in the beautiful town of Campbell River I spent 2 refreshingly cold days in the home of my closest traveling friend, Janine, and her family. She was always on the phone with me while exploring Australia when either of us needed a voice for comfort. Surprises for me would arrive in the mail just because...! Who knows where I'd be without Janine's friendship. Therefore I'm more thankful then I showed, when I was given a warm bed to rest in and a home cooked meal including a 6 hour trip for her to drive me down to Victoria. Kudos to the Keglers. But not to supersede, in Victoria, my cousin Keith Dewey and family, as well as my great friends Cindy and Kat welcomed me equally with open arms. Next time we meet, it's my time to return the favor.
No year long exotic trip would be complete without a exclusive closure. Every country will lead each traveler down different paths, leading to different opinions. Every journal I've written, most importantly this conclusion is strictly one persons opinion. I guarantee that if you ever wake up in any of the four countries that I did, you'll have feelings at times that are simply indescribable. I've done my best to share a piece of Dwayne that some friends and family hadn't seen, but there'll always be memories that simply couldn't be transferred from pen to paper. So many , in fact that will remain with me, when customs asked if I had anything to declare, I told her only memories. She then smiled and suspiciously searched my bag. Australia was easiest to travel. being a commonwealth english speaking country. Canadians and every other nationality except Americans, are welcomed with a free jar of Vegemite. Though Americans are still welcome. The currency rate is virtually the same as Canada. Similar to most large countries every corner has different landscapes and weather. If I go back it'll be to the west and south coast. Very friendly people with a brilliant system that has abolished pennies and made dollar bills 100% waterproof.
In South East Asia, Indonesia stood out the most. I made more friends with the local people then any other country. Commuting was much shorter taking ferries and buses since the country consisted of mostly islands. 6 hours traveling in Indonesia was the most I did versus 15 hours in Thailand on my first day. Indonesia has better English skills then Thailand or Malaysia with religious beliefs that don't encumber on travelers so much. I was certainly one of the most optimistic travelers around. Never was anything ever stolen from me, but I''m still returning home with only 40% of the articles I brought with me.
I don't regret for a moment traveling alone. I've met a plethora of people while roaming aimlessly. I've had a few lonely days but they're not the days I remember most. I recommend for anyone thinking of traveling alone for a long period, it is not wise to attempt to continue a long distance relationship with someone back home. It's not fair to anyone. Many women from many countries have made me smile while being very close friends.
I did some calculations.. and if they're any where near accurate, I've spent over $18,000 in 11 month. I've earned with my work visa over $8000, although while working my accommodation was always paid for with my wages so I've considered that in my end figure.
The friends and family at home that supported me when I needed to vent through my journals, that gave an ear to listen when I called them and visited me on the other side of the world when I needed a friend at my side are absolutely priceless.
I've settled in nicely in Mississauga, with a friend. I've now just started clearing the bushes and trimming the trees to my new path. Building a pretty fence and firm bridges. Lots to do but I'm happy to say I know where I'm going, which is more then I could say 11 month ago. Feel free to ask any questions at Zaskar088@yahoo.ca . Thanks for helping me through 2004.
|
| click a pic or scroll >>>>>> | | |
|
 5 current comments...
Anette Moi - 1/4/2005 Dwayne :):)
Thanx for the lovely card I got from you:)
It made me smile a lot :)
Miss you very much my good friend!!
I'll might travel to Australia for 1 year this July . Going on School in Perth.
Lots of Love, Anette
Jasmine - 11/26/2004 Welcome home Dwayne :)
Candice - 11/26/2004 Glad to see that you wrapped it all up! Like Josh said, hopefully we can get together soon and go over some of those memories that you have. Hope to see you soon!
Chris - 11/25/2004 Aw, the end? I was just getting into it! Oh well, welcome home Dwayno...
Josh - 11/25/2004 Welcome home Dwanye!! Can't wait to get together and hear all the stories that you didn't write about. It sounds like you learned a lot about yourself on this trip, but hearing all of your conclusions is really making me want to travel again. Anyhow hope to see you soon.
|
|
|
back to top