Upon graduating, I took a risk to forgo a stable income to guide hikes and then come to New Zealand with nothing more planned than a flight to Auckland and 3 nights accommodation. While I tried to hide it, I was a bit uncertain about how it'd all go. It turned out to well exceed all of my expectations. Not only did I get a job, I guided jet ski tours and lived 1 block off the beach. I went on the longest hike to date and spent my record-longest period of time in the backcountry. I've spent over 40 days in New Zealand's backcountry huts. I've met friends from New Zealand, America and places every where in between. I've learned to drive a manual and sail a boat. I've kayaked with orcas and hiked next to kiwis. I've successfully hitch hiked and lived out of a station wagon. I've been amazed at how many people have reached out to give me a ride, bed, meal, or just advice or a chat. I've had the incredible experience of showing my parents and one of my best friends the place I fell in love with. New Zealand and its people will always hold a very special place in my heart!
With that said, New Zealand was a bit in my comfort zone. When I came here in 2013, I knew I'd meet people studying at Otago and make friends easily. Coming back, I already had some contacts here and some sense of the country, job opportunities, etc. In two days, I will step on to a plane to Bali and out of my comfort zone. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't nervous at all, but like I've done so many times before, I am sure I will grow from it, learn from it, and experience things I can't even fathom yet.
On Thursday, I will fly to Bali, Indonesia where I'll spend nearly 3 weeks (between Bali, Lombok, and the Gilli Islands) before going to Thailand on July 1st. Of course I am upset to leave a place that finally started to feel like home, but at the same time am thrilled to see what Asia has in store! Hopefully you got a sense of my "lifestyle" through the blog and have enjoyed following along.
