TravelStream™ news feed for member kcgunther on TravelPod's free travel blogs service http://www.travelpod.com/syndication/rss/kcgunther en-us Copyright ©2009 TravelPod.com Fri, 01 May 2009 12:59:19 -0400 http://www.travelpod.com http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/4/1241110140/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/4/1241110140/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/4/1241110140/tpod.html Fri, 01 May 2009 12:59:19 -0400 Off to wee Ireland we go...

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Cushendall, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom

Overniting in small town Portrush (although a metropolis compared to the previous stay in northwestern Republic of Ireland, Portrush was a welcome change with more than 1 main avenue, countless amusement parks, and possibly the most fabulous food we have encountered in Ireland.  Visitors to Portrush have to head to The Wine Bar for a cheap yet incredibly delicious meal for the evening.  Similar to other destinations, Lauren and I befriended a series of locals throughout the evenings in the several pubs that we crossed over the course of the evening.   Waking for another Irish breakfast, we knew the day would be a long one as we hoped to head to Giants Causeway, considered by many as the 8th wonder of the world.  This landmark, and what was to be a 10 mile walk along the coastline to the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, was brilliant.  Incredible views, and attached pictures here do not give proper justice to these cliffs.  The rope bridge as well is worth visiting, should anyone ever make it as far as the Giants Causeway.  Utilized by local fisherman historically as a strategic location where atlantic salmon migrated along the coast, the fish were hauled up 30 meters onto the bridge.  Currently, the bridge serves only as a major landmark and tourist attraction.  Again, well worth the visit.  A short drive from Giants Causeway and the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge sits Cushendall, home to what my uncle claims is the best pub grub and local music throughout all of Ireland.  Cushendall is in fact all that and more.  The dinner at Harry's restaurant was stellar, and visits to the local bar establishments as idyllic as one could have hoped.  The only drawback was of course that Johnny Joe's was not opened for us this evening; this bar came highly recommended by my aunt and uncle as they travelled the province.  Though we may have missed Johnny Joe's for the evening, we did meet characters of Cushendall, including the drunken gambler who continuously praised us for what he perceived were the best teeth he had ever seen in his life.  Quite some interesting ones this trip....
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/4/1241047080/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/4/1241047080/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/4/1241047080/tpod.html Wed, 29 Apr 2009 19:51:56 -0400 Off to wee Ireland we go...

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Donegal, County Donegal, Ireland

Against the wishes and recommendations of local Strandhill tour guide/bartender Dave, whom indicated we should stay in Strandhill another 2-3 days to presumably follow last nite's drinking session, we decided to head onwards from Strandhill in hopes of making it to the infamous Slieve League.   Slieve League is located about midway up the Irish coastline, and well known for its sheer face cliffs and picturesque views and walks along the coast.  The cliffs themselves are claimed to be about 548 meters high, or 1600+ feet, although they seemed much higher to both Lauren and myself.  In fact, Slieve League boasts the highest cliffs in all of Europe.   We had decided before heading there, pursuant to insight from Uncle Pete Ruth (kudos to you Pete, for the sound advice) that we would bring with us a lunch and hike the cliffs for several hours.  Slieve does not disappoint, believe you me.  We must have taken at least 100 pictures on this given day, as it was in our minds one of the more beautiful coastal sites one can see in this lifetime.  That says a lot, as I have driven and seen quite a bit including the Great Ocean Road in Australia, western coast of the United States and island environment of Hawaii, coast to coast roads in Croatia and other parts of Europe, and coastal areas of southern and eastern Africa.  Spectacular - anyone visiting Ireland and not heading to Slieve League is missing out...  From Slieve League, we continued north to position ourselves for a visit to Glenveagh National Park.  Staying in small town Falcarragh with B&B owner Evelyn, we were surprised to learn there was no food to be found within the village for the evening.  Of course, liquid diet was an option as 6 pubs seemed to open their doors til 11:30 pm for the evening.  Go Irish!
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/4/1240851900/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/4/1240851900/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/4/1240851900/tpod.html Wed, 29 Apr 2009 19:43:31 -0400 Off to wee Ireland we go...

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Strandhill, County Sligo, Ireland

A long travel day... Departing Dingle in early morning, we were happy to be on our way after our so-called "slacker day" in southern Ireland.  Due to this slacking, the two of us agreed we would attempt to get as far northwards as possible this day so as to be able to visit some of the more acclaimed sites of northern Ireland (Republic of, and Northern) in coming days.  Thus, an 8:30am departure seemed a responsible choice, and responsible we decided to be... Of the 9 hour journey that stood in front of us, we decided there would only be 1 stop for tourist-affiliated reasons - the Cliffs of Moher in Shannon county.  Shannon County is somewhat more subdued and flatter than county of Kerry, but absolutely gorgeous with greenery all around and cows abound. Cliffs of Moher - 213 meters (600+ feet) of sheer rock face and Atlantic in the background.  A stunning site indeed, with plenty of tourists viewing the splendid natural rock formations.  Well worth the visit should you be looking to visit the country and southern Ireland. Hours later... we reach Sligo.  Known for nearly nothing other than a party scene and floating garbage and ducks in the river running thru town, we figured it was a good stop for the nite.  My oh my, were we wrong.  After sitting in god awful traffic for literally an hour if not more, speaking with a  jagged toothed hostel manager regarding potential rooms for the nite, and being turned away at the local city hotel, Lauren and I made an executive decision to get the hell out of dodge.  Seeing as to how the closest community or city to Sligo was a beach town (Strandhill), we headed in that such direction.  Upon entry to Strandhill, Lauren and I realized there were literally only 2 accomodations to choose from for the evening.  Surf shop and hostel seemed the cheaper choice, but without a manager to check us in, the next best choice was to tempt fate and just hit the bar for a much needed beer.  Or series of beers as the case became.  Befriending the local bartenders Dave and Pip (where the hell does Pip come from? Although he was small, aka Lauren's size) as well as other bartenders J.O. and Scoop, the hours seemed to fly by at the local pub.  One pizza and 7 beers later (pints, not tiny American bottles), we opted away from a nite out in Sligo town with our crazy new friends.  Part of this decision was based on the fact that there was no chance in this lifetime that either of us would ever return to Sligo, but as well it was well past 1am and we intended to head out early for a visit to Slieve League.   A big shout out and praise to Lauren for withstanding the severity of a cold shower in Strandhill.  My shower - scorching hot... YES!!!!!
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/4/1240672140/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/4/1240672140/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/4/1240672140/tpod.html Sun, 26 Apr 2009 12:12:16 -0400 Off to wee Ireland we go...

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Killarney, County Kerry, Ireland

Another trip begins... And short though it may be, the plan includes a car rental with travels from the southwestern portion of the island to the most northeastern tip and part of the country.  Good friend and buddy Lauren Luethold and I decided weeks back that this brief visit would be a welcome change from ordinary existence of Houston, and we flew over from Houston to Ireland on April 24.  Landing in Dublin early morning on the 24th, we hopped in our tiny rental car and headed 4 hours to the tourist epicenter of Kerry County - Killarney.  This small town serves as the starting point for day trips across several of the peninsulas that Ireland is known for.  Arriving on the 24th, we decided to immediately check out some local sites within the Killarney National Park, a park adjacent to neighboring Killarney city.  A visit to Muckross House and Gardens led us to hike over and up to the Torc Waterfalls.  Beautiful landscapes and natural scenery, followed up by a visit to 15th century constructed Ross Castle.  In late afternoon, we made it back to Killarney to look for a decent accomodation for the nite - Neptunes Hostel was an ideal choice with its close proximity to city center Killarney, where we enjoyed visits to several of the local pubs.  For those who have yet to visit Ireland, know full well that this country is home to the most pubs per square kilometer of anywhere I have ever visited.  It seems every other storefront is an operable pub, and Lauren and I did our best to support several of them that first evening in Killarney.  Best of all - great Irish culture and hospitality with local traditional music, dubbed "trad" by locals.The following day, April 25, we headed out in our small Toyota for the infamous Ring of Kerry, a 200km route across the whole of the Iveragh Peninsula.  Small towns along the route are dotted with pubs, craft stores, and  various other local establishments.  Beautiful views, and great towns including those along Ballinskelligs Bay, St Finans Bay and Dingle Bay.  A word of advice for any looking to visit Ireland and drive the country - rent a small car...  Roads are narrow and windy, and anything more than a compact would be tough to manage...  Ended up heading from the Ring of Kerry to town of Dingle for the evening.  More soon...    
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/3/1235280360/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/3/1235280360/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/3/1235280360/tpod.html Sun, 22 Feb 2009 01:22:49 -0500 Far East Russia

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Yuzhno Sakhalinsk, Far East Russia, Russian Federation

Though hard to believe that four months have passed since my arrival in Yuzhno, it is in fact my last week prior to finalization of this consulting engagement here on Sakhalin.  I must admit, the assignment itself has been challenging and rewarding in many respects, and it will be strange to disassociate myself from what I have considered to the norm for several months.  During my tenure here, I have had the opportunity to meet some great folks, see some interesting and different places than those in past journeys, and build my skill set and professional tools that hopefully will lead to another set of challenges in my career.  Sakhalin, for the most part, has not been what I would classify as the most beautiful of places.  It is not what I would consider the most interesting in terms of cultural offerings or experiences.  There is a simplicity to the place, however, which makes life here palatable.  There are humble and genuinely nice Russians on this island, decent and boisterous bars to keep the nites (and glasses) full.  And the work - well, the work is what you make of it...  I am not certain I can really sit here and recommend that anyone who has not been to Sakhalin should come for a visit to what is somewhat of a run-down, degenerated environment.  In reality, I would probably would recommend against doing so.  But this 4-month experience living in part of Russia has added value to my personal and professional life, and I am thankful for the opportunity that was presented me.  Now all the hype and concerns about the weather of Sakhalin - some have been legit and justified, but mostly the weather is bearable.  In December, as some may recall, the temperatures up north were about -28F during my last visit to Oxa.  Since my return to Sakhalin from the US over the New Years holiday, snow has continued to pile up and for the most part the temperature remain below freezing but not too bad.  As of the past week, there has been literally around 30-40 inches of fresh powder dumped on this city.  Intermittent temperatures reaching -5 to -10F have ensure that I am pretty cold, but at least here in Yuzhno I have reliable power supplies, electricity and heating.  Lets just hope a blizzard, typical for this time of year, does not cancel or delay my flight on March 2.All this being said, I welcome warm, sunny day and golf over the current conditions at present.  For those of you in Texas, prepare for my return.  I am not certain how long I will be around, or even where I will base myself, but paths will cross most likely!Best regards.Kyle  
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/3/1229820420/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/3/1229820420/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/3/1229820420/tpod.html Sat, 20 Dec 2008 19:49:08 -0500 Far East Russia

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Yuzhno Sakhalinsk, Far East Russia, Russian Federation

It has been several weeks since my last update to this blog.  Quite honestly, there has not been much to write about.  I have not been travelling, as much of my work has been focused or oriented around Yuzhno Sakhalinsk.  As well, my life has been somewhat monotonous and less than exciting - wake up, work all day and some of evening, read a bit or surf the net, and head to bed.  No good stories, no real updates of grave interest, but as we approach Christmas  I thought it wise to somewhat reflect on past weeks leading up to the holiday.Yuzhno remains ok, and I will stay here over Christmas heading back to Texas only on December 29 for 2 weeks.  It would have been my preference to make it home for the entire holiday season, but work did not permit.  So I will have a good couple weeks in Texas thru mid January while I await issuance of a 2nd Russian visa (they only issue 3 months at a time).  For those of you in/around Houston, I would love to catch up with you over a dinner, or drink, or whatever can be scheduled!  Thanksgiving was nice.  I was invited over to an American's house to celebrate with his family and about 20 local friends (1 pic included).  I appreciate Thanksgiving wherever I am, and it seems the holiday where Americans worldwide open their doors to complete strangers to celebrate the day.  So I had turkey, I had stuffing and mashed potatoes, and just to mix it up I even had some of the chicken wings that had been prepared as appetizers.  Yeah buddy.  Lets see - another visit up north to the city of Oxa.  For those who have not had the opportunity to travel to places like Oxa, my suggestion would be to opt away from such places.  Arriving on a company charter plane to Oxa, I was picked up and brought to the city center.   The day was busy, and filled with interviews with numerous small businesses and entrepreneurs.  Back at the hotel that nite, I learned that this time I had hot water in my room.  What a luxury!  Still, no food in the hotel restaurant, if it can be called as such.  Instead, I braved the -25C weather (-14F) and made it to the store to load up on Ramen Noodle for the next three evenings.  You may think I am kidding regarding options for food - absolutely not.  I have gone thru 6 packs of those noodle packages, and I will be happy to make it back to civilization and steer clear of such cuisine moving ahead.Other updates - hmmm.  Storm is a brewing, and looks as if I will brave the Siberian roads once again come tomorrow, followed by a 14 hour train ride overnite back to Yuzhno.  Fourteen hours, for what constituted a 1.5 hour flight the other day.  Unbelievable.  Bright side of it all - in my cabin of 4 beds there was a mother and son.  The mother very much reminded me of Turkmen women, as all her teeth were capped with gold; this scenario was very much a norm in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan.  Teeth aside, my cabin mates were extremely friendly and offered up what was deemed their dinner - a whole rotisserie chicken, chopped bread and several cucumbers and tomatoes.  Still have no idea what language was being spoken - sounded like Hebrew.  Had me stumped for sure.  Lastly, for those who remember Eddie Grant, you would be proud.  Eddie has made  a return, with song 'Electric Avenue' having been disco-ized and pumped throughout my train cabin for 4 hours on my trip home. In my absence, it appears as if my colleague has opted away from work in Yuzhno to go off on another 'bender'.  Fool me once, shame on you.  Fool me twice, shame on me.  Thus, this being the second time in less than 4 weeks that he has done as such, I think I will have to finally fire him and do not only all my work, but that which I had hoped he would do in weeks past.  Just makes my job that much more challenging I guess, and you all know how much I enjoy a professional challenge... Other news to convey??? Hmm, well less than two weeks remain prior to me jumping on a jet and heading to the States via Seoul, Korea.  Will miss Xmas, but time spent back in Texas should prove pleasant.  Might have to visit the doctor, as the past week my left 3 fingers have gone numb for some reason - I think this might have to do with the beginnings (or possibly advanced state) of carpal tunnel syndrome.  Great - just one more thing to deal with.  Keep you guys updated on that....Without much more to say, I bid you farewell for now, but send to each and every one of you my best wishes for an enjoyable and happy holiday season.  Merry Christmas and Happy New Years.Kyle
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/3/1227325020/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/3/1227325020/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/3/1227325020/tpod.html Fri, 21 Nov 2008 23:10:25 -0500 Far East Russia

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Yuzhno Sakhalinsk, Far East Russia, Russian Federation

November 16-17It was always envisioned that this consulting assignment would require visits to the field, meaning further up north where this multinational O&G operator has its drill and processing sites.  Part of my work of course is getting to know their business, and thus it is agreed that heading on-site shall be part of the learning experience.  But as well, the value I hope to bring to this client in coming months is in-depth knowledge about the local business communities which could in fact serve as strategic partners to my client's operations either presently or in the future.   I started my trek from Yuzhno on Sunday evening, with an overnight train departing the railway station at 8:40pm.  The trip from Yuzhno to Nogliki cannot be that far in terms of mileage - literally a couple hundred miles at best - it took my train 14 hours to get to my first destination.  My first insight upon exiting the train, was that it was much colder than I expected, and definitely much colder than Yuzhno.  Jumping into a cab, I made it to my derelict hotel with my local staff (who speaks absolutely no English by the way) and threw my suitcase into the grubby room I would occupy for the nite.  The rest of the day we worked from my contractor's office, interviewing local entrepreneurs and business owners on industries and sub-sectors which they represented, as well as what was indicated to me a 'high-level' meeting with the Vice Mayor of the town.  Now, again none of the individuals noted thus far have spoken a lick of English, so needless to say my Russian is coming back to me quite quickly.   The Vice Mayor of the town kept referring to me as James Bond - I could only chuckle and continue to exhale so as I would not have to breathe in smoke affiliated with those funky Russian cigarettes he kept inhaling.  With meetings ending around 6pm, I thought to myself that it was likely a good time to grab a beer and something decent to eat; however, there apparently was no restaurant open in this town for the evening (even in the hotel which we were occupying).  So much for customer service - had to laugh...  November 18.  Awaking early, I head up to the office provided me in Nogliki to check my email and prepare for my mobilization out to the client's camp and drilling site.  I was told to head to the airport, as my client has daily flights for its personnel to the processing facility and off-shore drilling operations.  Thus, Kyle heads off in the taxi ready and prepared for the next adventure into the sub-arctic tundra they call Siberia.  Long story short, the taxi driver somehow believed it was his privilege to charge me literally 50% more than the initial price quoted (and I finally submitted to his constant haggling, as I figured we were only talking 3 bucks additional), I took my 30 minute helicopter flight (see accompanying pics) and arrived at the OPF Chayvo campsite.  The client I work for has a fully self sustainable camp out in the middle of nowhere, hosting up to 840 personnel full-time (28 days on, 28 days off).  Amazing.  Think of the logistics associated with this camp - all food, all electricity and conveniences of home including tv and internet, all accommodations including gym and movie room, etc.  This was definitely a step up after my experience in Nogliki!!!  Maybe I should stay here for the duration of my assignment.  Maybe not - understand it hits about -30 to -40 during the coldest months January and February. November 19.  From creature comforts (or as much as a multinational corporation can I assume provide in the middle of sub-arctic tundra) including 3 square meals a day and a decent room with heat, hot water and cable television, to what I assume must be the remnants of the once-powerful Soviet Union, I find myself in the most northern city of Sakhalin island.  I took a taxi from the campsite 3 hours north to the city of Oxa.  The trip, accompanied by a colleague who picked me up with the taxi, was interesting to say the least.  The guy apparently went on a 'bender' in my absence and upon arrival disappeared for 30 minutues.  Pounding on his door for 15 minutes, this guy opens his hotel door and looks like near death.  When confronted as to whether or not he intended to work that afternoon, it was indicated to me that he could not work the rest of the day.  Unbelievable.  Any of you who have spent time in the former Soviet Union - this does happen.  In fact, my former colleagues had to fire individuals who apparently got so intoxicated they just would forget any responsibilities associated with professional or personal lives.  It is so pitiful it is funny in my mind.  So I went to the local office here to speak with our local contact - a nice woman who spoke absolutely zero English and refused to believe me a foreigner - she spoke faster Russian than anyone I have ever met.  It has become obvious that my Russian is improving, as we had a 45 minute strategy session about work in coming days.  Needless to say, I think I will have to fire this guy that was supposed to serve as my assistant with this 4-month assignment.   Post-work, I took a stroll around and wondered just how people live here - not only is it in the middle of nowhere, but like Nogliki there are few if any restaurants but a great deal of derelict buildings and lack of commerce.  Dinner consisted of some artificial cheese, black bread and a mixed salad bought from a small local store near my hotel.  Quite the life we prestigious international expats live!!!  The hotel - a sub-standard room with no hot water.  Challenge of the day (other than the Russian language) was showing with hot water heater in hand to counterbalance the frigid waters gushing from the taps in this Siberian dreamland.     November 20.Wish I could say it gets better, but the saga continues. Upon arrival to the lobby this morning, I encounter my colleague, who gives indication that while he is heading out for a pack of cigarettes, he will be ready to head to the office within several minutes time.  Somewhere between the local kiosk selling cigarettes (and whatever else he bought in that black plastic bag of his) and the hotel lobby, he decided his stomach hurt and he could not work for the day.  Thus, I headed solo once again to the offices.  In terms of work, the day was quite productive with meetings holding me up to near 2pm, with a translator to boot!  Moving on up in the world...  A late lunch found me in a local shashlyk (shish kebabs) restaurant buying lunch for those that I worked with today. However, my plan to head out of here tomorrow on a charter flight back to Yuzhno were thwarted by the weather.  Blizzard-like conditions with gusts that must be up to 50-60mph will disallow any planes to fly in and out of this town, and thus the plan has morphed into what was an easy 2 hour flight, to a 5-8 hour car drive to the nearest town with a rail link, coupled with a 14 hour train ride back to Yuzhno.  One cannot do anything but laugh at this scenario as it seems like a text-book joke.  So tomorrow will be yet another adventure, with me and my trusty sidekick Arkadiy the party-hound in tow.   Really, I look at this life that people lead and wonder how existence is not miserable.  Ignorance is bliss I guess.  Today I learned the local airport is closing as is bankrupt, the railway non-existent after the tracks have been destroyed from years of neglect by the local and national governments, and the only route out of here is by road, which is deemed more passable in the winter as a result of all the potholes being filled by snow.  Couple that with the fact that no restaurants operate locally except for Friday night thru Sunday as a result of inability to pay local staff - - - what happened to all the talks of this country being the new powerhouse due to high oil prices and a strong government???  Really, an eye opening experience that is sad in more ways than one...      November 21, 2008Awakening to yet another snowy, frost-filled day the plan was to call the airport and attempt to board a charter flight back to Yuzhno.  Rather, with the airport closed to high winds and white-out conditions, I along with my 'bender' colleague jumped in a 4x4 to make our way back to Nogliki, some 4-7 hours away pending road conditions.  The road was good, and we approached Nogliki in little over 4.5 hours.  It was my hope that the charter flight would be able to land and take off from this city of 20,000 inhabitants.  Again, lady luck was not on my side and thus I jumped the 14 hour overnite train to head back to Yuzhno late on this Friday afternoon.  What a great start to a weekend - guess it does not matter as I intend solely to work on a first deliverable associated with this consulting assignment.  As well, it will give me countless hours to do work while I tread slowly across this rough, rustic terrain. November 22, 2008.Hoorah, home just in time to see another snowstorm pull in.  At least I am in a place with food, and heat, and reliable internet.  Oh the joys of life...  Til next time, stay warm and take appreciation for what you have in front and amongst you...
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/3/1226048280/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/3/1226048280/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/3/1226048280/tpod.html Tue, 11 Nov 2008 03:20:40 -0500 Far East Russia

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Yuzhno Sakhalinsk, Far East Russia, Russian Federation

 Well my relocation is complete - after a week in Yuzhno Sakhalinsk, I have officially moved into a private apartment rather than remaining in the hotel.  To me, it is always preferable to have one's own place rather than be situated in a small hotel room where patrons are flowing back and forth.  Plus, an apartment allows a kitchen and one's own cooking if so chosen.  I looked at about 10 places, and was astonished at the prices charged for what I would deem ratholes.  Of the 10, there was one nice place and ultimately I decided to rent it for the next 3 months.  You will see some pics of the inside of an apartment within this blog link - thats generally my place.The warmer weather certainly did not hold up that long.  Yesterday I awoke to rain and by early evening the temperatures had dropped and snow was coming down.  While light, the ground is slowly being covered and the ice is forming on the roads (as I understood in crossing the street and nearly 'eating' it on the pavement).  Hopefully within coming weeks there will be enough snow on the slopes (within maybe 2 miles of my place) to begin the ski season.  I am not that anxious to see -20 or -40 degree weather, but I knew that was part of the deal in coming.  At least there are winter sports.The infrastructure of the city is pretty decent.  There are good stores which basically sell everything I need - including, for those of you who have spent time in Kazakhstan, CHECHEL cheese.  Really - the grocery store near my house may be about 1/10 of the size of a local Kroger or HEB, but it has everything I need for my cooking.  Plus, in reality I wont be cooking much at home anyways.  My big meal will be served on the client's dime where I am working on a daily basis.  And evenings, I just eat something lighter such as soup or cheese and bread, etc.Work thus far is good.  Challenging, but good.  I find myself in front of a computer 12 hours a day for now.  That could be the result of my masochistic decision to not only participate on this consulting engagement, but as well start the process of training to become an Online Adjunct professor with a US-based university.  I figure I can deal with anything for 4 weeks, and thus after hours from my regular job am online several hours per day participating in online dialogues and discussions with fellow trainees at the university.  I think by the end of this 4 month assignment my hope is to 1) have options to go elsewhere or do something potentially with this O&G client, 2) Start to try teaching full time online for this US university, and/or 3) Take a vacation (haha - well deserved maybe, but not sure I will be able to swing time away from real responsibilities of my existence).  More pics will follow of this town and my life as I know it.  Just wanted to get something out to you guys. 
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/3/1225669980/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/3/1225669980/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/3/1225669980/tpod.html Fri, 07 Nov 2008 03:52:23 -0500 Far East Russia

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Moscow, Central Russia, Russian Federation

Well, another adventure has begun I guess.  While not really sure whether I will view this next travel as adventurous as some of the other travel in my recent past, in fact I am heading somewhere where few go in their lifetimes.  And thus, I guess I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to head overseas to Sakhalin, Russia..   Long story short, after my brief foray into the Middle East, I returned home and began searching for what was to come next.  I really had no idea what was out there, whether domestic or international, but it soon found me.  Thus, I found myself in Washington DC during mid October discussing the prospect of consulting to a large multinational oil and gas player based in the Far East.  The Far East has intrigued me for a while, and thus I decided to take a 4-month assignment with this firm (ACDI VOCA) to service the needs of a local subsidiary to a multinational oil&gas player, as based in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, Russia. For those of you unaware of the exact location of the island of Sakhalin, picture a flight departing mid-morning from Houston on October 27.  I arrived 14 hours later (on 28th) in Moscow, and spent two days becoming acquainted with the envisioned work and my future short-term location. As you can see from the included pictures, I also had the chance to visit Red Square and St Basil's Cathedral.  There was no visit to the Kremlin museum nor to Lenin's mausoleum the day I visited the square, so I have intentions to do so on the way out of the country come 1st quarter of 2009.  From Moscow, I departed the evening of October 30, arriving 10 hours later in Sakhalin's capital, Yuzhno Sakhalinsk.  Sakhalin is considered part of Siberia, and in fact is east of Vladivostok.  Just north of Japan, this island is recognized by the oil and gas industry as a future hub for drilling and processing operations.  Sakhalin off-shore oil and gas reserves are estimated as some of the largest in the world, and thus all the big oil and gas players are here.  I will be working with this client to analyze localization opportunities as relates to supplier or vendor development for the firm's operations.  What that means - looking at suppliers and seeing what could be outsourced to local Russian companies rather than western contractors fulfilling all needs for this O&G client.  Having just arrived, it seems hard to judge or evaluate the place - I would go as far as to say that it does seem quite barren and could stand for further development.  Walking around the city yesterday gave me an understanding as to the layout of what is deemed this city - couple main streets filled primarily with old Soviet-era apartment blocks and occasional cafes and/or restaurants.  I went out the other nite to a couple bars - seemed western enough.  Jetlag has really affected me though, and the 16 hour time difference from Houston has been hard to overcome.  Thus, I find the first week here falling asleep earlier than usual and awaking around 2-4am.   Come winter (when snow will start to fall in coming days), I think things will be tough for this Texan - even though I bought the sub-arctic attire (with boots maintaining warm feet even at -40 degree celcius (and fahrenheit, as that is where the two types of degree measurements meet) I realize I will freeze here.  All part of the adventure I think - only Kyle could or would opt to head to Siberia during the heart of winter.  Perfect. Keep you guys updated.  Til then, hope all is well...    
]]> http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/6/1220362620/tpod.html http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/6/1220362620/tpod.html#comments Travel Blogs http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/kcgunther/6/1220362620/tpod.html Mon, 08 Sep 2008 10:19:43 -0400 Jordan

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Jerusalem, Israel

Sept 2With still no clear understanding as to what is expected of me with my assignment here in Jordan (for those that missed the last couple blogs, I am without work and just hanging in Amman now), other than being told I should 'sit tight' and await word from my employer on a date of departure, I decided to take advantage of Jordan's close proximity to Israel.  Heading out Tuesday 2nd, I made the trek to the border (about 1 hour from Amman) with hopes that I would be allowed to enter Israel itself.  With stamps/visas in my passport from several predominantly Muslim countries, I figured my chances were about 50/50 in being allowed entry.To my satisfaction, the Israeli border guards were friendly enough, and relatively hassle free.  They did question the bulky weight of my passport, and raised their brows at the visas for Indonesia, stamps for Afghanistan, and multitude of Central Asia stamps within my passport.  But I was through, and clear to travel for about 5-6 days.  My hopes were to spend the time between Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Massada and the Dead Sea.  For those of you who have never travelled to Israel, go!  The place is phenomenal.  Arriving in Jerusalem, I headed directly into the old part of the city, where structures are in excess of 2,000 years old.  Quarters or neighborhoods within the old city include Christian, Muslim, Jewish, and Armenian quarters.  Where else in the world could you find the following:- Temple Mount and Dome of the Rock:  a 1,400 year old complex including the Dome of the Rock, considered by many as the foundation stone of the world.  This stone, according to the Talmud, is where God gathered up the Earth to form Adam himself.  It also represents the stone where Abraham set about to sacrifice his son Isaac to display his sense of faith to God himself.  Thus, Christianity sees the area as vastly important to religion and its practices.  Later, Islam and Muslims declared Temple Mount of central significance to their religion, as the prophet Mohammed visited the temple prior to his ascension to heaven and joining with Allah, aka miraj.  Thus, in terms of sites of importance, the Temple is as significant as places of Mecca and Medina.  - Western Wall:  For Judaism as a whole, the Western Wall (known in the past as the Wailing Wall) represents the destination of choice for those pursuing their pilgrimage.  - Church of Holy Sepulchre:  While appearing much more modest in terms of superficial appearance than the Temple Mount/Dome of the Rock and the Western Wall, this church certainly does not pale in significance to the other two sights above.  The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is seen as the epicenter of the world for Christian pilgrims.  This church is the site at which Jesus was nailed to the cross, died and rose from the dead.  Talk about heavy.  Truly, even for those not 'religious' or oriented toward a certain religious affiliation, a visit to Jerusalem is absolutely incredible.  Walking between sights, in a maze of cobblestone alleyways full of stores and merchants, the old city of Jerusalem has such a positive vibe to it.  Even with security and guards absolutely everywhere in the city, armed to the teeth with guns and batons and such, there is a certain peace to the place unlike many other places I have ever been on this earth.  Thinking that 2 days would be enough in Jerusalem, I was wrong.  One could spend a week in Jerusalem just absorbing the atmosphere.  Or sitting outside the Wall, watching the Jewish population leaning against the wall shaking back and forth chanting prayers.  Or at the Temple in the morning, catching the light coming off the gold dome of the complex.  Or within the Church of Holy Sepulchre watching the righteous and and holy stand or kneel before their personal god as tears stream down their faces.  Amazing stuff.... Now the sights were far better than the awful hostel I chose to stay in for the evening.  Considered by a guide book I had with me, The Citadel was apparently a good spot, with nice panoramic views of the city and a central meeting spot for other travellers.  Sure, both were true.  But staying in a shared or common dorm room with 25 beds, two of which were occupied by these enormous Turkish guys who snored louder than anyone else I have ever heard - terrible.  Needless to say, I decided from that point onwards I was too old to share a dorm room with others - from thereon out on this trip, I would spring for the single room...  
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