Without a doubt, my summer holiday has been exceptionally exciting and
adventurous this year. A lot of this reassured me that my decision to study
Geography in Uni is definitely not a wrong decision.
There were three trips I have made this summer.
1. Nha Trang - Whales island
2. Hanoi - Quang Binh
3. Nha Trang
Previously, I have updated my post on the trip to Nha Trang - Whales Island and I have written lengthly about my second trip to Quang Binh province. The last trip was to Nha Trang.
There are many reasons why I don't usually traveling in a large group. It is not because I don't like people (I love my family ok and that is different!) or the fact that I have some social anxiety issues, it is more to the fact that, selfishly enough, I hate waiting for people! There is a benefit not going with many people because that means rather than having to meet up with other's people want, I can just get going and make my exploration happen.
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| On the boat on Cai river, Nha Trang. |
I can illustrate my point here because the return trip to Nha Trang, I went with a group of friends. Since I have been here many times, I was the one organising the 2 days trip we have. It was great fun to be around friends and catching up on things over the years but now I really, really do appreciate people organising trips for me over the years - it is a lot of work!
There are a few things that I have really learnt from all the trips I
embarked on this summer:
1.
Appreciate the people who plan and organize for
your trips because it takes A LOT of time and effort to ensure everything is
covered, risks are considered and you are happy!
2.
Stop moaning about how life isn’t exciting enough.
Go and make your own adventure happen!
3.
As usual, get cheap hotel room! Travelling means
getting out there and experience the world. How much time will you be spending
in that room except a good sleep and a shower?
4.
Water is absolutely vital and so valuable! I always tried to save water but remember
the island? Only when I get there did that lesson really absorb in...
5.
Travel light - My packing skills over the years, gaining experience as an oversea student abandoned on the street of London, have improved so much! Looks like it's nothing but I have everything from swimming goggles to a torch (a definite must, I got lost remember?) Bring clothes that you can wash and
dry up quickly, small towels, get packets of shower gels, wet tissues... One tip: finish your
packing and then remove one item!
6.
Always clip sandals on you backack and wear sport/trek shoes.
7.
Eat Sticky rice – perfectly satisfying for the whole day!
8. If I was abandoned on the island, I would definitely survive. Get local knowledge on edible forest fruits, it is so useful and also I must learn how to climb coconut tree! (lesson learnt from picking mangoes on the island because resort left me hungry with the food being so expensive...)
9. I actually learnt this year how to remain calm in panic situation.
10. A long scarf always come in use acting as : scarf/towel/skirt/blanket/raincover?(not so sure)
I think the most important lesson I have come to realise this year was, sleeping through the disappointment of missing out on expedition to Morocco and Tamil Nadu has made me see is that rather than waiting around for something to happen or for someone to organise a trip for me, I am the sort of person who will just get up and go. The good thing is that because I'm often by myself, it is easier to go, explore new places and meet new people. Oh and yes, last but not least, don't be afraid to make new friends!
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| A photography master took this pic of me whilst at sand dunes in Quang Binh. |
Until my next adventure!
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