Farewell travels. Real world, here I come very nervously....

I have made the venture to Kampala, the chaotic capital city. Roads are horrific, traffic, or "the jam" is unbearable especially if you are unlucky enough to be stuck in a matatu(small taxi van) with 20 or more other people. The heat and pollution is suffocating. Riding a boda(motorbike) is the easiest transport but really cant shake the terrified feeling and morbid thoughts as we worm through traffic, around potholes, and inches from oncoming traffic. I remember taking a no destination boda ride the day before I left just for "one last ride." I have already counted down the number of rides I have to take before leaving and am thankful for every safe journey. I cannot wait to be in a car with a seat belt, on decent roads with other drivers who obey traffic laws, oh and me behind the drivers seat. I miss driving a lot. The freedom of going where you want, when you want, and not negotiating a price before.
I am bored and tired of travel. My desire to meet new people is minimal. My desire to drink and party is gone. My desire to do anything but sleep is almost gone too if not for the kids. I have been visiting them at school everyday. Tomorrow will be the last. Say my tearful goodbyes and know they will be smarter and taller but still as great the next time Im back. It does scare me not knowing when this will be but I know it will happen. This country and these kids have given me a life-changing experience once again and I will continue to return to show my gratitude.
Got a huge slap in the face by the ATM today. Then it told me to get back reality and get a job. Rude, maybe but right? Definitely. I have never been so broke and worried so little about money in the last four months. It has been nice and there was only a little dark cloud attempting to follow me as I jumped around the world. I have a thunderstorm waiting for me at home and not really looking forward to it. Good thing I packed an umbrella!
I really cant believe the adventure is over. It was amazing beyond words. There is no way to possibly describe this time in my life only that it is unforgettable. I dont regret a minute of it and am very happy with my good fortune and smooth traveling luck, for the most part. No major thefts(just double-checked that my purse is next to me!), serious injuries or illnesses(5 boda rides to go!), and most importantly, I finished. 14 countries in 4 months solo. Not a bad feat. Everyday was a new challenge of language, culture, and navigation. I managed. Most importantly, I have the confidence to go almost anywhere and do anything. My travel blog is put on hold for a bit of fundraising but I will be back. I am going to see as much of this world as I can. Until the next worldly adventure calls, let me live through yours!!

Sorry about the doubt Uganda..... I still love you:)

The kids have returned to school. Not waking up to screaming and yelling before the sun is up. Still not sure I like that since it isnt followed by good morning auntie and hugs. I will be visiting them at school tomorrow after not seeing them for almost a week. Three weeks with them felt like one. One week without them feels like 3. I have been staying at Bujagali Falls about 7 km out of Jinja. Right on the Nile, where they do the rafting. There was a huge freedom and relief when I was back to just me and my pack. The kids are greatly missed but I really never stop worrying about them. Just me. A bit lonely but not for long. Met some local safety kayakers who took me out on the river for a day. Nearly impossible. I must have attempted to roll a hundred times and was never totally successful. Still a great experience that I will be doing again. Since then, I have met many locals. I have my boda driver Steve, my rolex(food) guy Joel, bartenders Abraham and Richard, and Fatia who has a souvenier shop and of course the kayakers Robert and Steve who I meet up with every day. I have met only a few mzungu(white people) backpackers. Kinda over the Where you from? Where you been? Where you going? thing. I had some issues to deal with here that made me really question my love for the country. That has been worked through and after meeting some great local people, I have that urge to be a local too. I am just happy to feel that love for the country again. It is a beautiful place with beautiful people, inside and out. The kids bring me back here but the country gives me a new and life changing experience everytime.
There is a local non-profit that I randomly was told about while traveling in Europe. S.O.U.L. - Supporting Opportunities for Ugandans to Learn. The founder Brooke has set up classrooms outdoors. They have started so many programs, but all with the same goal. Overcome the obstacles that Ugandans face in getting an education and have all of these people volunteer or give back in some way. Amazing concept and really helping Ugandans help themselves and their country. The website is www.souluganda.com I will be going there this afternoon for some much needed playing and talking with kids.
Well off to Kampala tomorrow where I will remain until flying out next week. Oh Kampala, guaranteed to be even more packed and chaotic than last year. Just praying that the boda ride gets along with my 25 kilo pack...

*UGANDA*

I have made it! My final and most anticipated destination. The kids were not aware that I was coming which made the screams and hugs that much better. There are a few that I only remember from our visit to the slums and pictures. They are now clean, healthy, smiling, and loving school. The house is crazy. 16 children running, laughing, screaming, playing all day. There is never volume control. This is their home. No adults telling them to quiet down. I'm usually yelling with them. Activities vary day to day. They are so easily entertained and appreciate everything making my desire to give them more and do more with them that much stronger.

We visited the slums of Masese where they came from and where most have family and friends. Some enjoy it more than others. Most are happy to see their past and happy to leave it in the past. Some dont understand that we will leave and fear that they are returning to stay. The level of poverty is like nothing you would ever see in the states or most of the western world. Sure people are homeless, hungry, and sick all over the world. Its seeing the defeated, desperate look in small children's eyes that gets to me. They are suffering. They may not have food or a bath for days. A good education is a luxury that most will never see. People approach me from every direction. I have white skin. They have a problem and need money. Its hard to say no but its impossible to help them all. I just look back at the Peace for Paul kids and know that some good has been done. 16 kids, a video camera, digital camera, meeting family and friends of the children, so many requests for money, people grabbing, pulling, begging, and the dirty children that quietly grab my hand and walk with me. It was a lot, I couldn't take much more and thankfully the kids felt the same way. Possibly the most emotionally trying day I will have here at least from my experience last year. A life changing experience to say the least.

I am still adjusting to life in Uganda. Crowded packed vans, meant to hold 12 that can miraculously hold 20 or more. Each ride is a stop, go, people in and out anywhere along the road. Terrible roads. Passing dangerously. Conductors and drivers yelling out to prospective riders on the road. Electricity- a novelty. Don't expect it before noon but pray that it comes by night fall. We ate dinner in the dark two days ago. One small light for preparing food, eating, using the toilet, everyone getting to bed. I think I was the only one a little stressed about the situation. They just started singing songs in a big circle and made it an early night. "Its (electricity) finished today. Maybe tomorrow auntie." Running water is also quite a luxury that I didn't take advantage of two days ago. Yep, no shower, I cant even wash my dark dirty feet. I wore socks to bed so I wouldn't get my sheets dirty. No complaints, just adjustments. The minor reactions that come from the kids makes any stress disappear.

Got into my first argument with a Ugandan taxi driver. After a trip to a football field for the day, we took two separate taxis home. We were waiting on the road for the others to arrive. As they get out the boys are pleading with the man. He was not giving them all their balance owed. I stepped in and argued. He attempted to close the door on me 3 times but I didn't back down and eventually got the remaining money- 100 shillings or about 5 cents USD. Yep, all of that for 5 cents. Its principle dammit. Don't rip me off because I'm white and don't take money from kids.

Speaking of the kids, I have been gone for too long. They will worry about me and wait for my return to eat lunch. And I miss them. Things are just too quiet. And I haven't gotten a hug in a few hours now:)

Egyptians, camels, and pyramids!

Madrid, didnt stay long. Arrive on the night train from Lisbon Sunday morning and off to the airport Monday by noon. I did squeeze in a city walking tour(not bad) and a siesta(when in rome...!). Repack my bags, print off documents, make the last phone calls until im back in the states, and take my first malaria pill. Ahh Africa here I come!
I fly to Luxor, then Cairo, Egypt. Lots of covered bodies, heads, faces. Muslim territory and even more extreme because Ramadan, the ceremonial month of fasting, begins in a day. Well I attempt to sleep since arriving at midnight. I am way to awake for that to happen and I think after fighting for a few hours I may have got an hour in. 7 am, 86 egyptian pounds, and I have a visa in hand. I find a tourist company, yes the people I mocked in almost every city are now getting my money. Im not about to attempt to navigate this place on my own and for a small price I get a guide, transport, museum tour, and of course the pyramids. Well my lack of sleep catches up to me at the museum and the guide is worried about me. I assure him I am nearly a pro at this after my months of travels but he insists I nap in the car which honestly saves my life. An hour later I am refreshed and on my way to a camel! I had no money for a camel ride, extra of course, but the guide said I couldnt miss out on the experience and paid for me. The egyptians were very friendly people. Our guide through the pyramids said he would pay 1 million egyptian pounds and 10 camels to marry me. I must say I was a little honored. No one has ever measured my worth as a life partner in camels:) The tour guide was right. Riding a camel through the desert and pyramids was such an amazing experience. Wow! Back to the airport where I am surrounded by white cloaked people. Ramadan is upon us. In one hallway, I estimate 40 robed muslims and 7 prayer rugs. I am getting the craziest stares and jaw drops for wearing a tank top and (gasp) no head scarf. Somewhat agitating but I guess I know how they feel when they get looks in America for being the outcast. And I must pity the women who will live their lives covered, submissive to a man, and definitely never have the experiences I have even in the last few months. I give up and put on my sweatshirt, and yes sweat. My flight is filled with mzungus(white people). I count 7 Africans and 30-40 whites. This will be the last time I am surrounded by this many white people for a while and I am looking forward to it:)

Portugal=Perfection!

Well Im back in the rhythm of backpacking but still dragging my feet. Shitty flight from Barcelona to Lisbon after a 3 hour delay and I dont get into town until after midnight. Of course city transport has stopped. Yes I would love to pay for a taxi into town. 20 euro, no problem(only a 2 day food budget). Well I turn around to see my angels. 3 Aussie girls with backpacks also heading into town. Ahh wonderful. My hostel is right in the middle of town and has a fun vibe. Tacky decorations, every color imaginable, fur on the walls and even a giant cat poster. This is going to be a good place! The next morning I meet Jana(pronounced yana) from Munich who is also solo traveling. We go to a huge monestary, climb a waterfront tower(which we have decided we will buy and throw the best tower parties ever!-completely logical, just need to clear it with UNESCO). We cook an amazing dinner and have a few bottles of wine for 6 euro total. It is so thrilling saving money. We find a girl sitting solo and chat her up. Lou from Paris is also traveling solo. Finish the wine and head out to see the town. The small streets are packed with bars and even more packed with people partying on the streets. This would never happen in the states and I love it! The next day Lou and I wander the streets and find an amazing(and free!) art museum with an Andy Warhol exhibit. The city is so pretty. People are relaxed and polite. Touristy but not unbearable. The vibe is hard to describe, but I really loved it and cant wait to see more of Portugal. Ironic because this was the country that I almost didnt make it to. I want to see it all now. Spain was nice but Portugal wins for sure. There is a replica Golden Gate Bridge, seriously looks just like it. The same company built them both but I have yet to find out which was first. Also the same Cristo statue that is in Rio De Janiero, Brazil. Mmm so worldly! Back to the hostel where us three girls set a record low priced amazing dinner and wine drinking at 2euro each. Yea, not bad! No craziness as Jana and I have a day trip planned to Sintra, a city an hour train ride away. Sintra, so f-in touristy for a small little place, but I can see why. Trees everywhere. Located in a big valley. After a few hill climbs and declines(just getting our exercise) we find the famous park. It was originally an estate of some rich Brazilians. Now it is endless walking of trees, flowers, statues, and caves. The caves were so cool. I have never been in anything like that. We were crouched with a small phone light getting dripped on from above. Through one trail we ended up at the bottom of a dried up well. Nature's Disneyland. Awesome! Back to Lisbon for another cheap meal. Veggie curry, rice, and 3 bottles of wine for 2.50 euro each. We are getting better at this(and drunker!). There were free outdoor performances that we checked out. Last night, Fado- a type of portuguese song. Tonight- 4 musicians in 4 different elevated and lit up enclosed bubbles playing music along with a fireworks and light show. Hard to describe but like nothing i have ever seen. We happen to be on the waterfront so we spend some more time there before going back to the crazy party streets. I loved these girls. We were all from different countries. All solo travelers. We never ran out of things to say. Sharing stories, music, language differences. It was also great having someone ask where we were from and going down the line- France, Germany, US. Love it! We hugged of course and were all headed in separate directions the next day. I still had the day to kill before my flight to Madrid. Dominik from Austria and I headed in search of the huge flea market. It was quite a search but the marked was well worth it. After that we headed to the Oceanarium and one of the main sites of the 1998 Expo. Absolutely amazing. This solidified Lisbon as one of my top three European cities- Amsterdam, Budapest, and Lisbon...I love you and will be back:)

Barcelona- the city of pickpockets and Gaudi!

Well my final hoo rah from Budapest was a little excessive and I arrive to Barcelona early in the morning nearly a zombie. Im sick of sightseeing, sick of drinking, and dont have the energy to meet new people. Well I end up seeing many amazing sights, met a big group of people from allover the world and saw the nightlife. I think it can sometimes be more work to avoid these things than to just let it happen and enjoy it. And I really enjoyed myself. Im weary and a little bored with Europe, but I have a few great places to see and I must keep going. Barcelona is known for its beaches, art and architecture, and of course pickpockets. From all the stories I have heard, I figured it was pretty much a requirement that you get robbed of all your possessions. I walked the streets with a death grip on my purse constantly watching everyone around me and glaring at the suspicious. Maybe a little excessive but it did keep my possessions MINE. No, I did not get robbed and I do feel lucky. My favorite part of the city, Gaudi. Amazing architect. His works are allover the city, most famous being the Sagrada Familia, a cathedral still under construction. My favorite, Park Guell. No idea how to explain it but look up some pictures if you get a chance and someday I will have some posted.

PS Budapest, I definitely love you!!

Well I have loved traveling solo thus far. I meet so many more people, experience little to no stress only worrying about myself, and there is plenty of room for plans to change. And so they did. Originally I had planned to work for a woman on an organic farm in southern France. I visited Budapest, fell in love, traveled some more, and decided to take up the offer from Tim, the hostel owner of Tiger Tims place, to work for a while. Unpacking my bags for a bit and having a homebase is so appealing after the contstant movement. So I do it and I love it. First, a hostel, foreign concept to many Americans. Basically a budget place to stay for travelers. You share a dorm room with others. Bunk beds, communal areas to meet other travelers. Basically genius and very popular in Europe and many other places around the world. Even if I had money to pay for a hotel room, I would choose a hostel anytime. I have met so many people. So many travelers, sharing stories, advice, discovering the city with near strangers and of course checking out the nightlife. So working in the hostel- I basically cleaned, made beds and checked new people in and helped them get around the city. Oh and the pub crawls. Since the hostel was located in a residential area, we took all the willing travelers out to bars around the city. Fun, definitely. Possibility to get excessive, obviously. I dont believe my body could have handled more than three weeks of chaos and binge drinking. Besides Tim, I worked with two others, Dane and Isabella, both from Australia. Partners in crime and sanity keepers. We worked together, ate together, drank together, and met so many people. I miss them already and cant wait to visit the land down under. I would compare living and working in a hostel to college life in the dorms, minus class. Just meeting new people and drinking too much. Fantastic. So many new friends, so many stories. Amazing city that I will return to soon and would reccomend to anyone. Eastern Europe has such a different and good vibe and much cheaper as well. Loved it, but must move on to get closer to my departure to Uganda!!

A little taste of Nice and speaking French

My original plan to work on an organic farm in southern France has changed slightly. I am now heading to Budapest to work in a hostel for three weeks. Almost the same thing, right? I thought I would spend way more time in a few southern cities but Nice was the only destination. Im out of money and im so tired of packing a bag every few days, train travel, different hostels, having to make all new friends every few days. So much work! So three days in Nice. Beautiful city, great hostel. I met a fun group of girls, somewhat of a rarity for me. I usually find guy friends, more solo travelers, more laid back. Now that I think about it, that was my first group of girls to hang out with for more than a few hours. So, Nice. Didnt see a single sight but had two great days at the beach and even better nights meeting people at the hostel.
The experience of the city that sticks out the most for me was meeting two French men with my friend Molly. She spoke much better french that I did. Mine was pitiful minus my three years of study in High school and college and an attempt at brushing up before arriving. Anyway, the guys spoke about as much english as we spoke french. It was the perfect lesson. And for the first time in my life, I was being told to say something in another language instead of testing someones english. I pretty much failed the test, but enjoyed the challenge so much. I was in their country and had to attempt their language. I have never been more motivated and excited to learn another language!
So I have found a travel partner to Milan where I fly to Budapest. Morgan, from Portland ironically, and we catch three miserable un-airconditioned trains, uhh. We spend the night at a hostel, she heads to Venice and I head to the airport to catch my flight to Budapest, or so I thought. No need to go into details as I feel I have been bitching about bad travel for too long but I spent 26 hours in the lovely Milan airport. Oh the adventures of travel:)

Switzerland--absolutely gorgeous and insanely expensive

Well I said goodbye to Italy and am not too upset about it. Nearly two weeks there. Expensive and packed with tourists. Two of my least favorite things about a city. Cinque Terre was a good ending to it all. I have been debating my next destination and decided the night before with advice from fellow travelers that I MUST go. So Im off. Train to La Spezia, no air conditioning. Train to Milan, so packed. Train from Milan to Interlocken, Switzerland.....hell. By far the worst train experience of my trip thus far. I knew I was in for an all day train and set to arrive at the hostel around 10pm. The train stops and doesnt move for 30 minutes. I dont understand directions and a swiss man next to me translates. 20 minutes and the problem will be fixed. 20 minutes later, 20 minutes and the train will move. This continues for 3 hours until it is announced that the train will not be moving the rest of the night. Over 300 people are to be bussed to the next city across the border, then catching a train, then taxis, busses, whatever it takes to get to our destination. Well at 4 am I arrive at my hostel. Welcome to Switzerland!
Interlocken is fairly central in the country, surrounded by the Alps, and situated between two lakes. Absolutely beautiful. I hike along a river to one of the lakes and relax for the day and return to my hostel for a huge celebration of Canada Day(July 1st- sadly I didnt know it existed until i was in a hostel in Europe watching drinking games and body painting competitions.) I meet two guys from Texas and two from Canada. Later we end up in the downstairs bar where I look over and see my french Canadian friend Dominique who I hung out with in Vienna over 2 weeks ago. We hug like siblings who have not seen each other in 10 years. Its those quick friendships and a familiar face that really do make you feel good. And we had not been in touch since Austria and just happen to be at the same place at the same time. I am discovering the world is smaller the more I see it.
So, day 2 is hiking up to First in the Alps with Dominique and another guy he met. I have been a little shocked after realizing that I am out of money(minor budget issues, haha) and am in the most expensive country so far. This is all forgotten as I am hiking through mountains, seeing waterfalls and glaciers, and beautiful farmlands. Absolutely perfect. The best decision ever to come here and not regretted for a minute. I have been debating a stop in France or heading back to Budapest. I must go to France now or it probably wont happen, then return to Budapest.
Oh yea, I have decided to return to Budapest and work in the hostel I stayed at there. Great place, lively city, and im out of money. Time to do a little work! Next stop- Nice, France:)

Cinque Terre AKA paradise!

This place is absolutely beautiful. Green hills, rocky coastlines, colorful villas situated perfectly near the water. It is so great to be out of the cities. The village where my hostel is has one restaurant and a small convenience store. Not so convenient but the peacefulness makes up for it. Night one, football game of course. I meet Cassi, a 17 year old from Australia traveling solo for a year. And I thought I was crazy. I could never imagine doing something like this at that age alone for a year. She seemed to have it down and I give her a lot of credit for it. Also meet Rich and Alex, two Americans traveling solo and Bianca from Australia as well. We make plans to take the 9 km hike though Cinque Terre in the morning. 7am we are on a bus to the first town of Riomaggiore. Quick breakfast and we are on our way through the "moderate to difficult" hike. City one and two are easy. We are mocking the intensity of the hike, paved trails, an elevator option at one point. We meet a lot of people from everywhere as the sun blazes and the sweat is pouring. Ok, I take back all the jokes about it being too easy. We arrive at the 4th village and sit near the beach for a bit. We can see the next village and a big beach not far away. Jumping in that water will be our reward after the hike so we take off. First attempt, dead end. Second attempt, definitely a hiking trail but nearly straight up. The guys are long gone. Bianca and I take breaks as needed and question turning back. We are miserable, hot, tired and she is breaking out in rashes. "It has to flatten out soon" are my reassuring words every 10 or 20 minutes. Actually it doesnt. Two hours later we have came across 3 other hikers and we are still climbing up the cliffs. We later find out that we took the much more difficult 8b hike instead of the common 8a along the lower part of the cliffs. By far the most intense and beautiful hike I have ever done. After our near death experience(slight exaggeration) beers, food and swimming in the ocean were our much needed reward. This is exactly what I was looking for after big city traveling and minimal to no intense physical exercise for the past 6 weeks. The next day we switch hostels to be in the villages and rent kayaks. This place is so great! Have I said that already. I have been debating Switzerland or France for a while and decide that Interlocken, Switzerland is my next destination. Cinque Terre, I will be back!

When In Rome......

I was actually able to use this phrase while being there a stund overused it a bit but why not? I believe Roma is the biggest city I have been to on this trip with almost 4 million people. I stayed in a campground again but was able to meet people easier since it was huge, they played the football matches and had a large bar and nightclub. Visited Vatican City- the museum and Sistine Chapel. What a snooze fest. Almost 5 hours to walk through both. Beautiful paintings, sculputures and history but boooring. After that I went to the Colosseum. So amazing. Also, while waiting in line and listening to my ipod to avoid any stress and drown out obnoxious kids, a song by Michael Franti played. I bought the CD when I first started working a second job to get money for the trip. I hated the job, dreaded going there but listened to that CD and thought about this trip. Now I was listening to it while waiting to enter the Colosseum in Rome. Well worth it!! Also saw the Roman Forum and many ruins. I walked for hours through it all in awe of how much was still intact and imagining the city that was once thriving there. By far the coolest "old stuff" I have seen so far. Off to Cinque Terre 5 villages on Italy's northern coast. Beaches and nature are much needed after so many chaotic touristy cities.

You would think a short note about every city I visit would not be difficult, you would be wrong.

I wont pretend that I have just finished seeing Florence, the city after Venice and heading to Rome. I have actually been to three other countries since Italy but I will attempt to recap and vow to keep up on the blog a little better.
So Firenze as it is referred to by the Italians, old, historical, beautiful, and lots of churches. I visited 6 the 2 days I was there and even one twice. Now I am offically burnt out on churches, cathedrals, basilicas..... Im not even sure how a basilica differs from a cathedral or church. Anyway, upon first arriving at the train station I see a man holding a sign with a name on it. No definitely not my name, but on top of the name was the Avanti Destinations logo, the travel company I worked for in Portland. It was cool to see the other side of the company and people taking their travels that they paid a lot for. Me, I walk past and get directions to the bus to my hostel and I am perfectly fine with that. Upon arriving, I meet Peter an English man in his 60's who mapped out all the sights I must see and had endless knowledge on everything imaginable. Interesting until he started quizzing me on US history. The stupid American strikes again. Regardless, he ended up being a great travel advisor to Pisa, Cinque Terre, and Switzerland. I really hope to be as ambitious, worldly and passionate about travel at that age. Florence is probably best known for the statue of David, which my friends visited. I opted out of standing in line for an hour and paying 20 euro and went to an internet cafe. Heard it was great. Good enough for me. So yea, two days there hanging out with Juan Jose Gonzalez(love the name) from Mexico. Coronas at noon as we walked from church to church. Watched the World Cup game and made 20 or 30 friends walking in the streets because he was wearing his jersey and there was an oddly large number of Mexican fans. Lots of fun minus the loss.
After two and a half days in Florence, I caught the train to Pisa and stayed for a few hours. Saw the tower, lots of pics, tons of tourists, lunch on the lawn(per Peter's suggestion) and back on the train headed to Rome.

Venice-full of romance and rain

Another new country, another language spoken, this time Italian. First stop is Venice or Venezia. I am staying at a campground but the more upgraded modern European version-restaurant, bar, pool, bungalows, and a hell of a lot cheaper than a hostel in the city. I get a bungalow to myself-bathroom, two beds, a fridge. I may have found backpackers heaven especially at 12 euro a night. I decide to stay an extra day and relax. My ankle is really starting to bother me from a fall I took almost 2 weeks ago. Nothing serious but walking all day every day on it since has not given it time to heal. It has been an awakening to being more cautious about everything. One stupid move could put me in a hospital, a cast, or anything that would impair me from walking or carrying my pack. I am so thankful that I am able bodied and healthy enough to do this. I could not do this in a wheelchair, on crutches...the list of ailments can go on. So I am thankful every day for my health and mobility and even use those nasty subway handrails when I have my pack on to ensure it continues. So, Venice. I was told it was a city for lovers and pretty sure I was the only solo tourist in the frenzy of families and couples. And yes it was a frenzy. No cars on the main island that is sinking. No roads, just small alleys that wind around. Lost within two minutes and stayed that way the entire day. My only strategy was to follow the massive migration of tourists. I made it to the main sights area of St Marks Square or Palazzo San Marco. Big old buildings, huge lines and many euro to see anything. After about an hour in the city, I decide im done but I have 8 more hours before the campground shuttle picks me up. Hmmm, first strategy-Get away from the tourists. Second, dont spend money on stupid shit. I find a nice park to shelter from the on and off rain and study some French. It was right on the waterfront and it helped dwindle a few hours. The most beautiful thing about Venice in my opinion was the gorgeous green, blue almost clear water. I have never seen anything like it. The canals and gondolas throughout the city were cool too. Just like in the pictures. The light rain turns to a downpour as I hobble on my ankle in search of internet and a phone. I finally settle on a bus shelter and spend the remaining hours in Venice seated on urinated concrete with tourist and bums standing around me. Hows that for romance in Venice? Day two, I dont leave the campground and barely my bungalow as its pouring rain. Washing clothes in the sink and drying them on the heater, I read, write, and relax. Now thats a great day in Venice! Up early and onto Florence.

Dear Budapest, I think I love you....

Well I am attempting to catch up on blogging. I guess its a good sign that I am enjoying myself since I havent had much time or desire to spend on a computer. So Budapest, another foreign currency-the forint, and another language-Hungarian. Two tram rides later I arrive at my hostel Tiger Tim's Place. Im greeted by Tim the owner and introduced to four other hostelers. The place has a great vibe. Like someones apartment or home but residing inside are 30 or so hostelers rotating in and out daily. Like the Real World on a larger scale minus the drama. Tim gives me a map and shows me everything to see in the city. So cool to be welcomed on a personal level instead of hello, heres what you owe, and good luck. I head out to walk the city, do some yoga and french studying. That night we go to a public viewing of the World Cup on a projection screen outdoors. I dont even watch sports but im totally loving the football games every night(soccer for the Americans). Every night the hostel goes to a bar or a few. Great places, the beer is cheap and I have met the majority of the people staying there. Like a big happy family that says goodbye to some and hello to others everyday. I love it!! It only gets better after a day of walking the city with some new "family members" and another night of outdoor football viewing in a different park and bar crawling until the sun comes up. It became the joke at the hostel that you know it was a good night when I wake up in my clothes from the night before. I didnt fail to disapoint the following night either. Harry from England and I head to the baths which Hungary is famous for. A huge, old and nice place with three huge outdoor pools of different temps. Cool, warm, and really warm. We thought we had found heaven until we discovered the indoor baths and saunas. Probably 30 different temperature pools and saunas everywhere. Sweat in the sauna and head to the cold 20 degree celsius pool for a dip. It was so relaxing, i felt like content jello the rest of the day and night. I will go back to Budapest just for this. More football, drinking, and sightseeing. I have learned that Hungarians love foosball and are damn good at it. I kept trying and lost everytime. Impressive, but not as impressive as the foosball tournaments televised on TV. I love it!!! Well I planned to stay two days and ended up staying four with a sad goodbye I am off to Venice. I love you Tiger Tim!!

Vienna- back to German speakers and the euro

Ahh Vienna! Well I was sad to leave Prague but once again excited to see a new city and meet new people. I am getting used to making the quick friendships. Knowing people for hours feels like years in the backpacking world. I got into town late, sweaty, and tired and in no mood to start new friendships. Well 10 minutes after entering the common area, i have a beer in hand talking to the bartender from Portland, a group of American marines, and a Parisian. I have noticed my social skills flourish quite a bit but it is so easy when you have travel in common. Where are you from? Where have you been? How long is your holiday? What do you think about this city/country? And my new favorite....How do your nations higher education and health care systems work? I have yet to find a country even comparable to our embarrassing systems. Anyway, still fascinating to learn more and I am optimistic that good change will come. If not, I have so many countries to choose from that offer something better. So, day two I meet Dominique, a french canadian. We set out walking the city in the blazing heat. Flea market, parks, a pool on a boat(just observing enviously) and an asian market for some dinner supplies. Back to the hostel bar for some more World Cup where I meet a man from Australia traveling with his wife. We head out to the nearby bar and meet up with lots of other hostelers. Its amazing how at home I felt with people I just met. Im also really enjoying a little nightlife. I think its an important part of any city and a great way to meet people. Well the next day Dominique and I rent bikes and go EVERYWHERE including a huge cemetary where famous composers like Bethoven and Brahms are buried. Over 2 and a half million people rest there. Huge! Then down the Danube River to the city's amusement park for some bumper cars, a water ride and other ridiculous stuff I havent done in years. So fun! I could barely walk after biking all day but it was well worth it. Such a great way to see a city. Back for some more football and foosball at the local bar and an early train to Budapest. Overall, the city was great. I wish I would have checked out an opera(the thing to do in Vienna I guess) but more places to see and people to meet:)

Prague- well i didnt get robbed!

I feel like it has been so long since I have had a chance to put my thoughts down. I think there is so much going on that I dont know where to begin. Its the procrastinator in me. Well my first thoughts on Prague changed a lot by the end of the day. I was really uneasy about the city, but after meeting some good people in the hostel I wasnt so sketched out. I wasnt robbed as I assumed was just going to happen. I pretty much said good bye to my valuables and surrendered to the inevitable that never happened. So Prague was fun. Lots to see and of course lots of history. The largest Castle in Europe, tons of jewish history, absinthe.... "When in Rome..." is my new traveling motto. The Jewish synogogues, museums and old jewish cemetary were especially disturbing. I was in shock seeing the rooms and rooms of victims names on the walls, childrens pictures from concentration camps, and the thousands of decrepit tombstones. It made me think of Darfur in Sudan and the modern day genocide going on that so many know nothing about. Those thousands being killed will never have memorials, museums, or proper burials. And with the way things are going now, most will never know that they existed or perished in such terrible conditions. www.savedarfur.org is a great website and non-profit. Ignorance is not bliss.

Cologne, Prague, and world history

Well still in Cologne, departing for Prague tomorrow and am really looking forward to it. From what I hear, very big, busy, tourist-y, different currency than the euro and they speak Czech. I have been in Germany over two weeks and am ready for a new language, some new culture, new people. Oh yea, made it to a history museum today and got some interesting facts. Eau de cologne originated here. 80% of Cologne was destroyed by bombing in World War II and rebuilt to a fairly decent city. Nazi Germany moved 11,000 Jews from Koln alone to concentration camps. It is estimated that a mere 50 avoided this fate in the entire city. The museum I viewed had no history of this dark period until 1993. Trying to hide something? Dont worry, the world will not forget. I find it quite fascinating that this important period in history is brushed under the rug. I find it much more fascinating that my European and World history for that matter is embarassing. Sure I could have paid attention more, did those worksheets myself, and actually read the texts but overall the American education system provided me with less than the basics. I would generously estimate a total of 6 months in one class a day covered it all. Not enough in my opinion. I have been forced to take an extended trip of European museums to catch up. Well I wasnt forced, but once again I feel like the dumb American. Save draft....
Ok, I am in Prague now. I traveled all day on the train and arrived just at sundown to a wierd, confusing, almost deserted main train station. The warnings about theft and evil taxi drivers forced me to put on my ¨Dont fuck with me face.¨ Yes mother, similar to the one I had for a few years in my teens. I also held tightly onto a butter knife(the closest thing I have to a weapon) and attempt to navigate to the hostel. Found it, no knife necessary, but I still will be taking it with me around the city. The Clown and Bard Hostel. I didnt realize I was staying in the Hilton of hostels until now. Exactly 99 steps to the large dormitory I share with about 20 other people. I have two full days and three nights here unless this place really blows my mind. Doubt it. I heard great things but am very minimally impressed so far. I dont care to keep my DFWM face for too long. Well, I always attempt to write brief posts but apparently I am incapable of that. I think I may attempt sleep. Yes, attempt. This could be interesting.

"You are crazy for taking this trip!"

Well I have sadly said good-bye to Wolfi and Annie in Mainz. I was able to attend yet another strangers birthday where we played "Who Am I?" I was unfamiliar with the game and it took the stupid American a few rounds to catch on but basically a sticky note on your forehead with the name of a person, fictional or real, alive or dead. You can ask yes or no questions until you get a no, then onto the next person. Well 5 or 6 rounds later, I am given the strong clue of a famous German serial killer. Yep, Hitler. Kind of forgot about that dude while spending my time in Germany. In an attempt to get some local history, I tried to find a concentration camp museum today without an address and had little luck but I still have a couple days in Germany. So I arrived in Hamburg yesterday afternoon via train, then an inter city train, some wandering and I miraculously stumbled across my hostel. Things dont usually work so easy for me. Anywho, set off to wander the city this morning. First stop, of course a park. Waterfalls, trees, yoga, and reading, and later I discovered a nasty sunburn on my pale white skin. I will either come home golden brown or red and peeling. The latter I assume, but the former I still dream of. First stop on the solo sightseeing tour-Old Town Hall. Huge, old, cool place. A man asks me if I speak English. Why yes I do and would love to speak to anyone who will listen! Question asked, on his way and Im on mine. A few minutes later, we pass each other again. He introduced himself as a wandering tourist from Argentina and we agreed to navigate and see the sights together. Nice man, learned a lot about Egypt(so excited!), and I really enjoyed a travel partner. As much as it scares me to think about going on a 4 month trip with one person- 24 hours a day together, 120+ days, different ideas of travel, many emotions on both ends, ahhhh- I must admit I would enjoy someone to help navigate strange places, take pictures, and just talk to. On the other end, I have met a lot of great people and sure to meet many more because I was solo. Well, I am solo for this trip and even though I can do this, I must admit the people who said I was crazy might not have been so crazy themselves. Train ride to a new city, find a hostel, city map, list of parks and sites, wander and repeat a few days later. Fun but exhausting.
Well I depart for Cologne or Köln tomorrow or Saturday where I will meet my friend from Amsterdam. Looking forward to some conversation and taking the backseat to navigating. As long as I find a park and dont spend much money, I am perfectly content wherever I am. Europe really isnt that expensive when you are on a super budget like myself. The most expensive thing is hostels and trains. I live off bread and fruit(cheap and vegan!), no souveneirs, and almost no toursity crap. It only gets expensive when you decide to stay for 3 months and see 20 or so cities. But really, who would be crazy enough to do that?
Well its nearly impossibly to ever put into words or pictures all that I have seen so far and am wondering where all the new images, people, and experiences that I encounter every day will go? So move over Mid-western American anthropology(honestly paid money for that) and the hours of crappy movies(for which I can still never get that time back), I have more important things to remember.
Well internet cost money here as I brag about how cheap Europe can be. I wont eat out anywhere (4 times in my 3 weeks here) because I cant rationalize paying more than a euro or two for a meal of fruit and bread, but when I find an internet cafe I act like a millionaire who has endless hours and money to spend. So in the interest of time, well lets be honest, I have more time than I know what to do with. Ok in the interest of money, I will depart. Next city Köln, and I will update once I get to Prague. Cheers!

Mainz, Germany and Germans speaking German

Well 1 week down in Germany. It has been comfortable and wonderful. Wolfgang was kind enough to skip University all week just for me, or so he claims. We took a trip to Frankfurt today, I have been to 2 of his friends birthday parties, met so many people, and seen a lot of the city. It is strange to understand so little that is being said. I understand almost no German still, and honestly dont plan on it, but I watch TV and movies in German, listen to Wolfi talk to everyone in German, and have people attempt to speak to me. I am used to it and it does help you pick up non-verbal signals from people but I still feel like I miss out on really meeting people because of the language barrier. I really have no choice but to get used to it and I have been warned that it will get worse, especially in Italy and France where they really love their own language and english is not as common. As I frequently space out while others speak German, I have decided to learn Spanish. I am embarrased that I only speak one language and spanish would definitely be useful in the states and future travels to South America(on the list!). Now that I have said it, I must do it. I am fascinated by bi-liguals, tri-liguals and more. Wolfi has more than once challenged my english and accused me of making up words. FYI-after dictionary references, I have been correct every time. More importantly, I want to be that person so comfortable with a second language that I can question a native speaker.
Well enough with my obsession with languages. I appologize but I am completely fascinated. Tomorrow we will be attending an African fair/exhibit/something of the sort in Mainz. I have been loving Annies african meals of beans and rice per my request and I hear there is more to be had tomorrow, like chapati-one of my favorite african foods which is a fried flat bread sort of thing. Along with the African fair is a Night of the Museums where all museums in town are free and open until 2am. Free, Africa, Museums....sounds great!
I have plans to travel to Hamburg and Cologne next week, part of that with Wolfi. Then back to trains, hostels, and a new city every few days. I have about 10 cities and less than a month to see and travel to them all. Im loving relaxing but also getting anxious to be on the move and see some shit!
I will leave you with a little story and hopefully a laugh....I arrived at the train station here of course carrying my big pack on my back and my day pack in front, yeah thats a sight in itself:) Well I get to the bathroom which of course you must pay for. I dig for coins, get the correct amount, and drop one on the ground. Let me note that there are about 7-10 others in the small area. I quickly reach down to pick it up and lose my balance with all the weight. I barely catch myself before almost completely tipping over again. As I am catching myself for the second time I trip on my feet and thankfully tip into a wall. I dont know if I could have gotten up had I fallen. A little embarrasing at the time but I would have paid to see that! Another lesson learned, if I drop something less than 2€ dont even try, otherwise proceed with extreme caution.

Lux, french boys and Germany

Ahhh....relaxing in Mainz, Germany with Wolfgang, my familys former exchange student and now a family member. It really feels like home! Yesterday was an interesting train ride as the travel surprises keep me on my feet, literally. Basically, Americans dont understand these complex European rail systems. Du Gare in Luxembourg- Im on platform 8 as I watch my train pull out of 10. Ok next train in 45. Finally on my way, now the first of 3 train changes. I get off one stop too early and am at a deserted train stop, not station. A couple miles later through German instructions, I am at the central station where I should have gotten off sweaty and tired. Anyway, im determined to get this train thing down and Im sure there are to be more problems mostly due to my error. My last day in Luxembourg was wonderful. Did I say already that I LOVE LUXEMBOURG! I wandered all over town, visited the National Art and History Museum, saw casemates which are old caves dug into the town used for war defense and military storage dating back to as early as 963. So cool and a little creepy. Definitely the best part of the day started with some afternoon yoga in the park. This attracted 4 little french boys who started mimicking my poses. We had only a few words in common- oui, non, Je m'apelle Brandi from me and yoga cool and fuck you from the boys. A couple hours later after games, races, and lots of yoga the sun was going down and our play date had ended. I miss the kids in Uganda so much more after that, but it really showed me that you can have a great time with anyone even if you dont share a common language. It seemed like such a minor issue to them and me. We just played, laughed, and gestured. I love it! Well just as I started to get comfortable with my simple french, the language has switched to German. Not my favorite. Also, I have not dropped the french so Bonjour and merci envelope my english and the Germans think im crazy. Well Wolfgang and I have a festival to visit so on the move again!

I Love Luxembourg!!

The third day in Luxembourg and only good things to say. Tiny country, small city-around 800,000 people and so much history. America does not compare to the history in Europe, especially here where settlers date back to 960. So fascinating. I will have more pictures of old churches and homes than of anything else, including me. The city of Luxembourg and most of the country, I believe, is in a large deep valley. The Old Town is in the valley and the "newer" city above that. I have been getting quite a workout walking all day everyday and hiking up and down the valley. I had my first scare of the trip after spending an hour locating and walking to the only hostel in town, only to find they were full. Thoughts of a street corner or 200 euro hotel scare the hell out of me. Well, 20 minutes later there was a cancellation and I had a cozy top bunk in dorm 113 of the Luxembourg Youth Hostel which feels more like a middle school field trip but all is well! I will be catching a train to Frankfurt tomorrow to meet my "family" Wolfgang and Annie. I am really enjoying wandering but also looking forward to a home for a bit. Its amazing what you find comfort in when you are so out of your element....a familiar face at the internet cafe, the statue that reminds me I have been at this spot, english speakers, or a comfy spot in the park. Just like home:) Speaking of the park, I must wander. I did not come to the "Grand Dutchy" to sit on the internet. Salut!

Belgium, French, and foreign languages

Day 3 in Brussels and I will be departing on a bus for Luxembourg in a few hours. Walking around this city is so pleasant with all the cobblestone, statues, and historical buildings. I saw the infamous pissing boy or 'mannekin pis' which is no bigger than a small dog and crazy that it is known worldwide. Louven is a town 20 minutes train ride away that we visited yesterday. Dimitri may be going to school there so we visited the University and city. Charming and historic. In Brussels, Dutch and French are the main languages spoken. I am absolutely loving the french. Some of my past french classes are coming back to me and I really want to refresh and learn more. It is so fascinating to hear people speak numerous languages. My education dulls in comparison to the cultural experiences that Europeans encounter every day. I have 3 months to grasp as much of this as I can. We take for granted that almost anywhere we go, we will come in contact with fluent english speakers. This can make life easier, but so much can be learned through non verbal communication and mutual respect of different countries, cultures, and languages. I have had minimal language barriers with Dimitri interpreting and his great english but now I am on my own and off to Luxembourg where mostly French is spoken. So, French it is! Funny that I was so concerned with a well charged ipod for traveling around. I cannot bring myself to turn it on because I would miss hearing the many languages. My new hobby is trying to figure out what language is being spoken instead of throwing it into the "non-english" category and disregarding it any further. Well I have a bus to catch shortly:) Funny that I have been blogging for a week or so and have yet to notify anyone of this. Kind of an expensive personal journal as I pay around 2 euro for an hour of internet:) Au revoir!

Amsterdam Day 3

Amsterdam Day 3. Well its official. I am still in love with this city. I started smiling when I got here and have not stopped. I am really here! I have seen so much in the past few days. Spent today biking alover the city, yoga in the park, open air market where we bought produce I am so excited to cook tonight. Oh yes, us. I have found my friend as well. He has been a great tour guide and is enjoying being a tourist himself. We have just booked tickets to go to Brussels by bus on Monday morning. We will stay there for a few days before he comes back and I move on, possibly to Luxembourg? He has helped me plan a little more which has helped my excessive spontenaity and relaxed attitude. Van Gogh museum and lots more biking tomorrow. I spent most of yesterday in Vondelpark. Gorgeous, and as I sat for hours near a pond watching others and reading. So relaxing. I cannot believe this will be my life for the next four months. If the first three days here are any indication to the future, I am in for an amazing time:)

Amsterdam Day 1

Ok so this is a web log or the cool term blog. Just arrived in Amsterdam a few hours ago after a day and a half of flights and airports. I was in Reykjavik, Iceland this morning. A few fun facts...the glaciers are melting quickly(yes there is ice in Iceland), 85% of the people lives in Reykjavik leaving most of the country sparsely populated, they speak Icelandic(didnt take that one in college), and ice climbing is a hobby. This was all gathered from my time in the airport this morning so you are welcome:) So Amsterdam is just like I left it last March. So many people and canals. I love it! I dont love screaming tourist with my huge backpack but I have yet to find my friend who I will be staying with. This could be a challenge as I have no phone and he has not answered his. Oh the wonderful world of traveling. I cant wait to get a bike tomorrow and cruise all over this city. I was too intimidated last time, but my biking around Portland has made me confident that I can go anywhere here. Weather, not so great. People are wearing winter coats and I am freezing in my sweatshirt which was the warmest thing I packed. Sitting in an internet cafe and already missing my laptop with wifi and of course my cell phone. How do you find someone in Amsterdam? Im about to find out...