Update in February
Trip Start
Dec 26, 2005
1
265
285
Trip End
Jan 25, 2009
Carnarvon,
Australia
Monday, February 5, 2007
I'm back in Carnarvon, working as a deputy of a school with 350 kids. It's great to be back amongst what I think is one of the best schooling systems in the world. But it's definitely not my number 1 passion... and as soon as I gain financial independence in my life, whether that be 10 or 15 years, I'm OFF to engage in my life passion... to travel and volunteer my services to impoverished communities (Latin America, Africa and Asia). But I will continue to travel in between to give my life such added purpose and enjoyment. I desperately miss being on the road, even though it's been absolutely wonderful being back in Australia amongst English speakers and routine.
I miss the associated freedom of travel... being free to do whatever you want whenever you want. I miss the people and the friendships I made... but I know I will cherish in the ones I've made especially with people here in Australia (especially Melbourne!). And I miss the dramatically different cultures to our own.
It's good to be back in a house I suppose... with all the modern cons like cheap internet, laundry, a comfortable bed without bed bugs, and cupboards to put your clothing in. I desperately missed those things whilst on the road, but now take them for granted now. I'm looking forward to practicing my Asian and Viennesse Cooking.
Even though I've written that I wouldn't travel like a did for another year... the thought of basing myself in one destination (or region) for an extended period of time is on my mind. I'm on Long Service Leave again in 7 years (when I'm 39/40) so I can see myself taking another 12 months off to engage in this dream. But you never know what's around the corner... I'm single now but who knows what will happen down the track! And it's exciting to think that there are many International opportunities available... my uncle is off to Africa to engage in developmental work in the education system there... lucky guy.
I've since made myself 4 photo murals, as suggested by my mate in Buenos Aires (Pablo), and they look absolutely fantastic. I will put pics of these on here soon... I have since shared them with colleagues and students and the interest is staggering. I feel as though I've accomplished something so great and feel bloody priviledged to have been able to do it. But I am a born traveller... and I can't wait to get on the road again.
I'm planning to travel to Melbourne in April for 2 weeks. I'll base myself in Perth for the July holidays, before heading off again in October... not sure where yet (maybe Thailand?). For the end of the year, I'm planning a whirl-wind 6 week tour round Australia, taking in Darwin, Alice Springs (and Ayers Rock), Melbourne/Tasmania (for Xmas with the family, hopefully and NYE in Melbourne) and Brisbane/Gold Coast. It was either that or South East Asia. I'm still in the early planning stages but love doing it.
It's good to be back into full time employment. To think that I'm receiving the equivalant of an average Chinese salary in 2 weeks is staggering!
Anyway, I will continue to update this... to keep me sane, as well as keep my mind firmly engrained in the mindset of a RTW traveller. We travellers share such a special bonding, especially single RTW travellers. Travelling RTW as a sole backpacker is an amazing experience... some people have asked if it was lonely, but NO WAY. As you can see by my photos and experiences, there was always someone to talk to. I met hundreds of people... more people than I could ever expect to meet in the course of a normal working year.
It is a bit hard getting back into work, but the memories and photos I have stored in my memory will have a significantly positive influence on my life into the future.
Keep in touch readers, and share with me your experiences as you travel this world.
