Hello everyone, I'm writing from the wonderful (and cold) Seattle, Washington. I made it home safely. As I've been catching up with friends from Cyprus I couldn't help but share this story with you. My friend, Ravi, that I studied with in Cyprus and his friend, that I had the pleasure of meeting, Ian, went directly from Cyprus to Kenya to volunteer in a village in Kenya.
I just read through their blog and it's inspiring. They are staying down there for an extended amount of time doing anything and everything they can to help in the village they are stayed at. I would like to share their blog with you as it has more information and it gives you an opportunity to donate directly to their cause with everything clearly explained. They have a detailed list of what both Ian & Ravi would like to contribute to, but this list was created by the individual that is serving 30 young orphans.
Please help if you can. They are both extremely nice guys and would be more than willing to answer any questions you have, just shoot them an email. The blog is: http://ianravikenya.blogspot.com/
I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year everyone!
Cheers,
Kayla
Monday, December 27, 2010
Friday, December 24, 2010
My story book ending...
I'm home!!!
My flight from NY was on time and at 10:30am on Christmas Eve I was in the arms of my mom and sister. Sure enough I was headed up the stairs and there Nicole was watching everyone go by, watching for her little sister. I had so many emotions at that moment I can't even begin to explain.
I survived my flights getting cancelled Monday. Tuesday I got news British Airways couldn't get me home until December 28th and within hours I bought 3 tickets home to Seattle with EgyptAir & Delta. Tuesday night I spent 24 hours in the airport, took a 1.5 hour flight to Egypt, 14 hours in Cairo, 12 hour flight to NY, 16 hour layover & a painful 6 hour flight home to end my journey.
I didn't think I would be one to go through all this but now that it is all over, I'm proud of myself and so grateful for the people in my life. My mom was there for me when I needed there, Kameron helped me find flights when I had no help in the states because it was the middle of the night, and once I started my journey my friends were incredible. I could not have done what I did without you guys.
Although the last five days of my trip weren't in the least bit pleasant, I don't want to take away from my 4 months abroad. I will never forget my trip and surely I won't forget my struggle home. It made me realize how important family is. I love my family more than anything in the world.
So here it is, I traveled to 10 foreign countries over a period of 6 months while I was 21 and in college to arrived home on Christmas Eve in order to receive the most loving hugs I've ever felt.
Merry Christmas everyone! I hope you all have a great day and a Happy New Year!
XOXO,
Kayla
PS: For everyone who was wondering, Nicole & I got our Santa picture taken for the 22nd time today. We went straight from the airport, me in my traveling clothes and without a shower in way too long, but mom got her one and only Christmas wish. Merry Christmas Mom, I love you.
My flight from NY was on time and at 10:30am on Christmas Eve I was in the arms of my mom and sister. Sure enough I was headed up the stairs and there Nicole was watching everyone go by, watching for her little sister. I had so many emotions at that moment I can't even begin to explain.
I survived my flights getting cancelled Monday. Tuesday I got news British Airways couldn't get me home until December 28th and within hours I bought 3 tickets home to Seattle with EgyptAir & Delta. Tuesday night I spent 24 hours in the airport, took a 1.5 hour flight to Egypt, 14 hours in Cairo, 12 hour flight to NY, 16 hour layover & a painful 6 hour flight home to end my journey.
I didn't think I would be one to go through all this but now that it is all over, I'm proud of myself and so grateful for the people in my life. My mom was there for me when I needed there, Kameron helped me find flights when I had no help in the states because it was the middle of the night, and once I started my journey my friends were incredible. I could not have done what I did without you guys.
Although the last five days of my trip weren't in the least bit pleasant, I don't want to take away from my 4 months abroad. I will never forget my trip and surely I won't forget my struggle home. It made me realize how important family is. I love my family more than anything in the world.
So here it is, I traveled to 10 foreign countries over a period of 6 months while I was 21 and in college to arrived home on Christmas Eve in order to receive the most loving hugs I've ever felt.
Merry Christmas everyone! I hope you all have a great day and a Happy New Year!
XOXO,
Kayla
PS: For everyone who was wondering, Nicole & I got our Santa picture taken for the 22nd time today. We went straight from the airport, me in my traveling clothes and without a shower in way too long, but mom got her one and only Christmas wish. Merry Christmas Mom, I love you.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
I've been through hell and.... no, just hell.
Hey family and friends, if you didn't hear all my flights home Monday (your Sunday) got cancelled. I was supposed to fly into London, Heathrow Monday night and leave Tuesday with a direct flight to Seattle. However, with only one runway open in all of Heathrow we kept getting delayed and delayed until it finally got cancelled. I'm not sure if my Seattle flight would have got out but for peace of mind I don't think I want to know.
They made us pack our stuff and go to a hotel for the night, which wasn't bad at all minus the disappointment and lack of information. We were given dinner and then rested so at 9am we could start calling British Airways, over and over with busy signals, to re-book. Hours later we finally got through and I was told I couldn't get home until December 28th and that was still traveling through Heathrow, which is obviously a death trap. They said I could cancel my flight and get a refund but couldn't offer the amount of the refund and I could only find out if I called from the USA.
Heartbroken because my sister is only in town for 4 days, I only had planned two weeks in Washington and on the 27th I'm supposed to start jury duty so there goes my life, and quite frankly after 4 months of living abroad and then watching 27 of my friends go home to their families I just wanted to go home.
My friends Kyle and Leah were on that same flight. We all started looking into other options to get home for the holidays. Leah's family got her an expensive ticket that took her east and got her home on the 22nd, so happy for her. Kyle hadn't figured anything out until Tuesday around 1:30pm they called us and said "pack your stuff, you're leaving on a bus in 20 minutes" so he got on that flight to Heathrow, which I believe left. However, they sent him there with no connection and I still don't think he is home.
I maxed out my credit cards and called an SOS to mom & booked 3 individual tickets that would get me to Seattle by Christmas Eve. Here is the rundown: supposed to leave Monday, Monday night in a hotel, Tuesday kicked out of the hotel around 5pm. Stuck in the Larnaca, Cyprus airport for 24 hours alone with all my stuff. 1 1/2 hour flight to Egypt, 14 hour layover. 10 hour flight to NY, JFK, 16 hours layover. About a 7-8 hour flight across country to Seattle and I'm there by Christmas Eve... if everything goes as planned, emphasis on if.
My time wasn't too horrible in Cyprus I suppose. Couldn't buy internet, but Monday night I treated myself to a sit down meal and the largest Carlsberg they could offer me. The flight to Egypt was horrible. First, they said "just for this flight only one small carry-on, nothing in the overhead bins" which is shady but I thought something was wrong with the storage areas, nope. So then I go through the process of trying to check my baggage, including my carry-on that had all my Seattle gifts and breakables, of course that would happen to me. And then the lady wouldn't connect my two flights, ending my baggage in NY even though it's all the same airline. The main guy stepped in and tried to help, but really all he did was not make me pay for my overweight bags. So then I go to my gate, get on the bus to go to the airplane and they tell us we have to identify our bags. All the bags were laid out next to the plane and it was ciaos. Then we walked up the stairs and everyone was getting body searched and they were going through every small carryon. As if that wasn't enough they started calling names and men were coming off one at a time and then returning. By that time I made friends with the South African couple next to me and they were just as concerned as I was. I have never feared a flight that much, nor considered getting off due to fear.
I stayed on the plane and half way through they told us why everything was so off, it was because "there was some kind of interference". UMM, sure that makes me feel real safe as we're flying over the sea with no place to go. To top it off, we land and everyone is waiting to get off, then they tell everyone to sit back down we were going somewhere else? After more confusion they end up letting us off.
I don't even want to speak about the confusion with Egypt Air in this airport but let’s just say the first 4 hours of my 14 hour layover were consumed with everything I didn't need to be a part of. First good thing to happen to me in the last 3 days = free internet in Cairo Airport. So if you want to get in contact with me I'll be on email and facebook.
Warm wishes to everyone back in the states. To Alexis and Kyle, I believe you guys are the only ones still stranded, good luck! Make it home safe. Also, thank you to everyone who took the time to write me via facebook, I love you all and hearing from you really helps. I'm hanging in there, it's been 61 hours since I left my apartment on Monday & I still have 43 hours to go. I guess you could say I'm testing myself right now, and dear "Egyptian Cop man, with a huge gun staring at me one floor up, YOU my friend are testing me".
I will try to keep you guys posted, miss and love you all. Write when you can.
XOXO,
Merry Christmas,
Kayla
Sunday, December 19, 2010
This one's for me... 6 month re-cap
Somehow I’ve been blessed to travel to 10 foreign countries & 5 continents in the last 6 months. (Australia, New Zealand, Germany, England, Cyprus, Greece, Italy, Spain, Turkey & Egypt) Every day I try to figure out how I got here, sure I could break it down to the logistics of timing and money and numerical figures but it’s so much more than that. My family, friends, professors and everyone I’ve been able to meet helped me to become the person I am today with the drive to travel the world, quite literally. So, to you, thank you.
Friends have already started to ask, “what was your favorite place?” and I don’t know how to handle that loaded question. Do I answer it by telling you the place I had the most fun (Spain), or where I had the best cultural experience (Egypt), the most beautiful place (Greece) or the place I truly found myself (Turkey)… & the quest goes on. So for myself I’m going to look back on each place…
“Australia: Favorite place to live.” I studied in the outback for 3 weeks and had the opportunity to chase wild kangaroos, sing camp fire songs with aboriginal people, & participate in my first international art gallery experience. After school I traveled with my best friend to 4 incredible cities where I danced with kangaroos, laughed until I cried, dove in the Great Barrier Reef, danced all night with Aussies in Cairns, climbed the Sydney Harbor Bridge and gazed at the Sydney Opera House. The people were the most caring, respectable, chill people I’ve met. Each city had their own manner but as a whole they were the most entertaining and enjoyable people to grab a beer with and kick back to enjoy life for what it is.
“New Zealand: Favorite place to do something crazy” Now good old New Zealand was not so sweet to me. The weather ruined our plans to base jump and raft with glow worms in caves; however, it was a reminder to me that anything is possible (if it’s not windy and raining haha). Truly though, I was prepared to do things I never thought possible for myself. I didn’t experience nearly anything of what New Zealand had to offer, especially not going to the south island. I need to go back. But I tell you what, Tiffany and I had a blast! One of the most memorable events there was a pub crawl we took part in (an event in which you pay a fee, get a band that gets you into all the bars you go to and one free drink at each place and the entire group, 100+ people bar hop all night). I met incredible people from literally all over the world; Ireland, England, Whales, etc. and it makes you realize how alike people can be and even though it was for only one night I know I will remember some of those people late into my life.
“Germany: Favorite place to start my European journey ” Germany was incredible and special because I made the trip to stay with a friend that I grew up with. This amazing girl has been in my life for over 10 years and I got to spend time with her in her new home, with her newlywed husband and she really let me into her life. She took me out with her 2 girlfriends, also army wives, and I was given a night out to drink and enjoy myself. It was a reminder of my youth and how I’m single with endless opportunity. It let me see how the married life looks from someone outside of my family with was refreshing and I am so happy for Kristen & Ben. They took me to spectacular castles & we raced about on the autobahn. Germany was honestly too cute and Heidelberg was my favorite! Cute little cobblestone streets
“England: Favorite place to be a tourist” London was everything I thought it would be. Kristen and I didn’t have much time there but we made the best of it. I got to see every famous place you see in the movies and it was surreal. It was a place in which I couldn’t really believe I was there. The first night we were somewhat aimlessly walking along the water and then we looked up and realized both the London Eye and Ben Big were right in front of us, truly unreal. I had a blast and don’t even get me started about the art. I was a little kid in a candy shop when it came to all the remarkable art galleries there. I was also able to meet up and stay with a friend that I met studying in Australia. She was way too kind and I love that I got to see her, meet her roommate and feel so welcomed by both of them.
“Cyprus: Favorite experience” Cyprus is home. A part of me will always remain here. I have an apartment with wonderful roommates, I have my market and favorite stores, I navigate on the city busses, I’ve experienced the night life, went to school and made local friends and it’s simply become home. I sympathize toward the division of the country. I hope to spread awareness about the hostility and current divide with my photography and stories. For such a small island it can seem endless but I did make it to Aphrodite’s Rock on the south, Ayia Napa in the east (favorite place on the island) and Kerynia in the NW. I’ve come to an understanding with both the Greek and Turkish culture. I can’t say I like everything about it (cough men cough) but I understand it and there is something I really envy and I hope that certain parts of their culture travels back with me. It’s truly a beautiful place to live and visit, I love Cyprus.
“Greece: Favorite place for beauty” I made two trips to Greece, one with school & one with a friend to Rhodes. Athens was a place to experience the Acropolis and shop in Plaka but it was actually fairly dirty and rundown. However, after a crazy ferry hopping adventure I traveled with 4 good friends to a few islands outside on the mainland and also Poseidon’s temple another night and those were without a doubt some of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been to. The islands felt untouched with minimal tourist activity and the clearest water I’ve ever seen. Porros Island was my first experience swimming in the Mediterranean and I will never forget it. Poseidon’s temple at sunset was without a doubt the most romantic and beautiful thing I’ve experienced; just stunning. Rhodes as a trip itself was so fulfilling. The people were a part of something so much bigger than themselves, so kind and helpful; a real strong sense of an island community. I rode a donkey to the acropolis of Rhodes above the beach & hiked a mountain through butterfly valley, what’s cooler than that?
“Italy: Favorite place to have seen” Italy was a whirlwind as I saw Rome, Pisa, Florence & Venice in a matter of days. I was blessed to see all the main places with my own two eyes. I was able to see art upon art that I’ve sat in a lecture room learning about for hours. My experience was a lot of getting to a place, taking it in, doing tourist pictures and getting to the next place. I feel completely blessed to see everything I did. My favorite spots were at the Trevi fountain & the Pantheon as I chose to revisit them, sit down by myself and really taken in the beauty and history. I can’t speak about Italy and not say anything about Gusto pizza because there isn’t a day that doesn’t go by that I want that pizza and it doesn’t help Tiffany lives 2 minutes from there. Pisa & Venice were just like the movies and I loved it there! Wish I had more time…
“Spain: favorite place for fun” and oh, did I have fun! I will never, ever forget my experiences in Barcelona this summer. We showed up on the Friday that La Merce celebrations began; an annual event. Our walking tour of the city was overcome by the events and people and I did not mind one bit. At night only 4 of us went out but we met up with our friend Kirby who we met in Greece and he invited us out with him since he was living in Barcelona. We quickly fell into his group of friends from all over the world and I was just one among thousands. I danced and sang during one of the best concerts I’ve ever been to as it started to pour on the thousands of people in attendance on the first night. The second night was filled with everything from a park overlooking the entire city, to fireworks on the beach to dodging fireworks during the parade. I’ve never had an experience quite like Barcelona but in constantly reminded of Barcelona and the good times I had there.
“Turkey: favorite place for self-discovery” I went to both Istanbul and Olympos Valley. Istanbul is this huge city with ancient history and an attractiveness that is undeniable. The Blue Mosque was so calming and the glass work was unbelievable. I had children that were so intrigued by my presence. They would snap pictures of me and shake my hand, refusing to let go. They asked me where I was from and their sweet little voices would reply, “ooooh! Amer-riiiii-ca!” at they would light up. I still can’t get over it. They were so innocent and curious. Olympos was nothing short from life changing. It gave me time to reflect, write and sketch for hours a day. I could break from that to swim in the crystal clear water or hike to ruins from 70 BC or head back to my tree house for tea and a nap in the hammock. Talk about complete bliss…
“Egypt: Favorite cultural experience” I went with Tiffany it was such a hoot. I remember the first night, just ten minutes after being there laughing uncontrollably until I had tears running down my face after joking with Tiffany and the hostel owner and that was just the beginning. The pyramids by camel, dinner cruise on the Nile, the Citadel, Coptic Cairo, the Bazaar, night time horseback trip into the Sahara, it was flawless. And the culture, where do I even begin. I’ve never been so self-aware, and I mean that as a positive discovery. Physically I am a 21 year old female with light skin and blue eyes and I was reminded of that every step I took. Culturally, I am a free, blessed American that has full owner ship of my body and my life. Not everyone in the world can say that, actually not many in the world can say that. I come from a very blessed and free place, sure I may not agree with a lot of things in America but I still have way more freedom than some people could ever imagine. The people there were so kind, I would walk pretty much and where and people would greet me with a big smile, “Welcome to Egypt!” You would see people riding donkeys, riding in the back of trucks on top of a full load of cargo, running through the streets on their horse… we’re all people and we’re all going somewhere in life and so long as you’re happy, what other concerns truly matter. The people seemed honestly happy. People there didn’t need much but they sure seemed to make the most of what they did have. They may envy me but you know what, there are qualities they have that I can only dream of obtaining.
The more I think about it the most I realize I was most attracted to the people I met and interacted with through my travels. Everyone is culturally different but we are all human. In Australia we gave little aboriginal girls crayons to color with and they lit up with joy, much like the children in Turkey or Egypt, just simple little things brought them so much happiness. I feel like I’ve gained such a respect for other cultures and people that have different values and standards that I. I’ve learned so much through all of my travels, I’ve become more independent and I have a broader world view.
One of my favorite quotes: “I’ve always tried to go a step past wherever people expected me to end up”. To anyone who had any doubt I couldn’t do what I did, I hope I surpassed your expectations. I’d like to share that I only lost one tank top, never got pick-pocked, never missed a plane or means of transport, never really got lost and didn’t have any big mishaps, not too shabby if I do say so myself. I’m pretty proud of myself and how I handled all this traveling.
…I’m truly at a loss for words about this entire experience; it has been the best thing that has ever happened to me. This experience has changed my life and made me a much better person without a doubt. I can’t say it enough but I appreciate everyone who has supported me in anyway and I feel so incredibly blessed. Thank you to everyone who took the time to follow my blog, through conversations with friends and family I’m learning about many individuals that have been following my blog with me being aware. It makes me so happy to hear about this. Being able to share my experiences has helped me reflect, show my appreciation and share with the people that mean the most to me. Keep in touch & I can’t wait to give all my love when I get home, it’s been a long time coming!
XOXO,
Your world traveler headed home...
Kayla
Friends have already started to ask, “what was your favorite place?” and I don’t know how to handle that loaded question. Do I answer it by telling you the place I had the most fun (Spain), or where I had the best cultural experience (Egypt), the most beautiful place (Greece) or the place I truly found myself (Turkey)… & the quest goes on. So for myself I’m going to look back on each place…
“Australia: Favorite place to live.” I studied in the outback for 3 weeks and had the opportunity to chase wild kangaroos, sing camp fire songs with aboriginal people, & participate in my first international art gallery experience. After school I traveled with my best friend to 4 incredible cities where I danced with kangaroos, laughed until I cried, dove in the Great Barrier Reef, danced all night with Aussies in Cairns, climbed the Sydney Harbor Bridge and gazed at the Sydney Opera House. The people were the most caring, respectable, chill people I’ve met. Each city had their own manner but as a whole they were the most entertaining and enjoyable people to grab a beer with and kick back to enjoy life for what it is.
“New Zealand: Favorite place to do something crazy” Now good old New Zealand was not so sweet to me. The weather ruined our plans to base jump and raft with glow worms in caves; however, it was a reminder to me that anything is possible (if it’s not windy and raining haha). Truly though, I was prepared to do things I never thought possible for myself. I didn’t experience nearly anything of what New Zealand had to offer, especially not going to the south island. I need to go back. But I tell you what, Tiffany and I had a blast! One of the most memorable events there was a pub crawl we took part in (an event in which you pay a fee, get a band that gets you into all the bars you go to and one free drink at each place and the entire group, 100+ people bar hop all night). I met incredible people from literally all over the world; Ireland, England, Whales, etc. and it makes you realize how alike people can be and even though it was for only one night I know I will remember some of those people late into my life.
“Germany: Favorite place to start my European journey ” Germany was incredible and special because I made the trip to stay with a friend that I grew up with. This amazing girl has been in my life for over 10 years and I got to spend time with her in her new home, with her newlywed husband and she really let me into her life. She took me out with her 2 girlfriends, also army wives, and I was given a night out to drink and enjoy myself. It was a reminder of my youth and how I’m single with endless opportunity. It let me see how the married life looks from someone outside of my family with was refreshing and I am so happy for Kristen & Ben. They took me to spectacular castles & we raced about on the autobahn. Germany was honestly too cute and Heidelberg was my favorite! Cute little cobblestone streets
“England: Favorite place to be a tourist” London was everything I thought it would be. Kristen and I didn’t have much time there but we made the best of it. I got to see every famous place you see in the movies and it was surreal. It was a place in which I couldn’t really believe I was there. The first night we were somewhat aimlessly walking along the water and then we looked up and realized both the London Eye and Ben Big were right in front of us, truly unreal. I had a blast and don’t even get me started about the art. I was a little kid in a candy shop when it came to all the remarkable art galleries there. I was also able to meet up and stay with a friend that I met studying in Australia. She was way too kind and I love that I got to see her, meet her roommate and feel so welcomed by both of them.
“Cyprus: Favorite experience” Cyprus is home. A part of me will always remain here. I have an apartment with wonderful roommates, I have my market and favorite stores, I navigate on the city busses, I’ve experienced the night life, went to school and made local friends and it’s simply become home. I sympathize toward the division of the country. I hope to spread awareness about the hostility and current divide with my photography and stories. For such a small island it can seem endless but I did make it to Aphrodite’s Rock on the south, Ayia Napa in the east (favorite place on the island) and Kerynia in the NW. I’ve come to an understanding with both the Greek and Turkish culture. I can’t say I like everything about it (cough men cough) but I understand it and there is something I really envy and I hope that certain parts of their culture travels back with me. It’s truly a beautiful place to live and visit, I love Cyprus.
“Greece: Favorite place for beauty” I made two trips to Greece, one with school & one with a friend to Rhodes. Athens was a place to experience the Acropolis and shop in Plaka but it was actually fairly dirty and rundown. However, after a crazy ferry hopping adventure I traveled with 4 good friends to a few islands outside on the mainland and also Poseidon’s temple another night and those were without a doubt some of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been to. The islands felt untouched with minimal tourist activity and the clearest water I’ve ever seen. Porros Island was my first experience swimming in the Mediterranean and I will never forget it. Poseidon’s temple at sunset was without a doubt the most romantic and beautiful thing I’ve experienced; just stunning. Rhodes as a trip itself was so fulfilling. The people were a part of something so much bigger than themselves, so kind and helpful; a real strong sense of an island community. I rode a donkey to the acropolis of Rhodes above the beach & hiked a mountain through butterfly valley, what’s cooler than that?
“Italy: Favorite place to have seen” Italy was a whirlwind as I saw Rome, Pisa, Florence & Venice in a matter of days. I was blessed to see all the main places with my own two eyes. I was able to see art upon art that I’ve sat in a lecture room learning about for hours. My experience was a lot of getting to a place, taking it in, doing tourist pictures and getting to the next place. I feel completely blessed to see everything I did. My favorite spots were at the Trevi fountain & the Pantheon as I chose to revisit them, sit down by myself and really taken in the beauty and history. I can’t speak about Italy and not say anything about Gusto pizza because there isn’t a day that doesn’t go by that I want that pizza and it doesn’t help Tiffany lives 2 minutes from there. Pisa & Venice were just like the movies and I loved it there! Wish I had more time…
“Spain: favorite place for fun” and oh, did I have fun! I will never, ever forget my experiences in Barcelona this summer. We showed up on the Friday that La Merce celebrations began; an annual event. Our walking tour of the city was overcome by the events and people and I did not mind one bit. At night only 4 of us went out but we met up with our friend Kirby who we met in Greece and he invited us out with him since he was living in Barcelona. We quickly fell into his group of friends from all over the world and I was just one among thousands. I danced and sang during one of the best concerts I’ve ever been to as it started to pour on the thousands of people in attendance on the first night. The second night was filled with everything from a park overlooking the entire city, to fireworks on the beach to dodging fireworks during the parade. I’ve never had an experience quite like Barcelona but in constantly reminded of Barcelona and the good times I had there.
“Turkey: favorite place for self-discovery” I went to both Istanbul and Olympos Valley. Istanbul is this huge city with ancient history and an attractiveness that is undeniable. The Blue Mosque was so calming and the glass work was unbelievable. I had children that were so intrigued by my presence. They would snap pictures of me and shake my hand, refusing to let go. They asked me where I was from and their sweet little voices would reply, “ooooh! Amer-riiiii-ca!” at they would light up. I still can’t get over it. They were so innocent and curious. Olympos was nothing short from life changing. It gave me time to reflect, write and sketch for hours a day. I could break from that to swim in the crystal clear water or hike to ruins from 70 BC or head back to my tree house for tea and a nap in the hammock. Talk about complete bliss…
“Egypt: Favorite cultural experience” I went with Tiffany it was such a hoot. I remember the first night, just ten minutes after being there laughing uncontrollably until I had tears running down my face after joking with Tiffany and the hostel owner and that was just the beginning. The pyramids by camel, dinner cruise on the Nile, the Citadel, Coptic Cairo, the Bazaar, night time horseback trip into the Sahara, it was flawless. And the culture, where do I even begin. I’ve never been so self-aware, and I mean that as a positive discovery. Physically I am a 21 year old female with light skin and blue eyes and I was reminded of that every step I took. Culturally, I am a free, blessed American that has full owner ship of my body and my life. Not everyone in the world can say that, actually not many in the world can say that. I come from a very blessed and free place, sure I may not agree with a lot of things in America but I still have way more freedom than some people could ever imagine. The people there were so kind, I would walk pretty much and where and people would greet me with a big smile, “Welcome to Egypt!” You would see people riding donkeys, riding in the back of trucks on top of a full load of cargo, running through the streets on their horse… we’re all people and we’re all going somewhere in life and so long as you’re happy, what other concerns truly matter. The people seemed honestly happy. People there didn’t need much but they sure seemed to make the most of what they did have. They may envy me but you know what, there are qualities they have that I can only dream of obtaining.
The more I think about it the most I realize I was most attracted to the people I met and interacted with through my travels. Everyone is culturally different but we are all human. In Australia we gave little aboriginal girls crayons to color with and they lit up with joy, much like the children in Turkey or Egypt, just simple little things brought them so much happiness. I feel like I’ve gained such a respect for other cultures and people that have different values and standards that I. I’ve learned so much through all of my travels, I’ve become more independent and I have a broader world view.
One of my favorite quotes: “I’ve always tried to go a step past wherever people expected me to end up”. To anyone who had any doubt I couldn’t do what I did, I hope I surpassed your expectations. I’d like to share that I only lost one tank top, never got pick-pocked, never missed a plane or means of transport, never really got lost and didn’t have any big mishaps, not too shabby if I do say so myself. I’m pretty proud of myself and how I handled all this traveling.
…I’m truly at a loss for words about this entire experience; it has been the best thing that has ever happened to me. This experience has changed my life and made me a much better person without a doubt. I can’t say it enough but I appreciate everyone who has supported me in anyway and I feel so incredibly blessed. Thank you to everyone who took the time to follow my blog, through conversations with friends and family I’m learning about many individuals that have been following my blog with me being aware. It makes me so happy to hear about this. Being able to share my experiences has helped me reflect, show my appreciation and share with the people that mean the most to me. Keep in touch & I can’t wait to give all my love when I get home, it’s been a long time coming!
XOXO,
Your world traveler headed home...
Kayla
Here goes nothing...
So getting home is going to be nothing short of a task and a half. First of all the weather in London is horrible. All of my friends that left Thursday night and Friday and had a layover in London are stuck there until at least Tuesday. No flights getting in or out for a while and because their flight got cancelled they were sent to the bottom of the list to get rebooked. So let’s all hope and pray my flight doesn’t get cancelled!
What’s hilarious to me though is how I’m going to look going through this process. Let me just build you a visual… so I’m five feet two inches tall and roughly 110-115 pounds. On the contrary, my bags are ginormous and heavy. I have one rolling duffle that is probably 40 pounds, a big rolling suitcase that is at least 50 pounds, a…. special bag that is at least 50 pounds and a huge shoulder bag that is guaranteed to break my back. So about this “special bag”… everyone knows the material of reusable grocery bags, right? The plastic like material they may or may not keep out moisture. Well picture that, just plaid and on a bunch of small, poorly made wheels. As my friends have referred it to as “the plaid garbage bag” (FML). So I bought it with the intension of attaching it to my suitcase and he would just follow like a well behaved little brother to Louie; however, this mishap of a brother walks like he’s wasted. You pull him one way and he follows for one step, turns directions and proceeds to fall over. Can everyone picture this cause I’m given up hope of having a classy trip and accepted I’m going to look like the most ridiculous traveler that Cyprus, London and Seattle has ever seen.
So long story short, if anyone reading this sees a girl trying to push one suitcase, pull another while picking up my plaid garbage can of a suitcase without dropping my shoulder bag, please give a girl a hand and keep the laughter to a minimum. I can’t stop laughing, I have no other choice. It’s going to be ciaos and I might as well embrace it.
Cheeeers! Let’s hope my 38 hours of travel doesn’t turn into any longer than it already is and that all four bags get home without any…. Serious issues :D
XOXO
Kayla
What’s hilarious to me though is how I’m going to look going through this process. Let me just build you a visual… so I’m five feet two inches tall and roughly 110-115 pounds. On the contrary, my bags are ginormous and heavy. I have one rolling duffle that is probably 40 pounds, a big rolling suitcase that is at least 50 pounds, a…. special bag that is at least 50 pounds and a huge shoulder bag that is guaranteed to break my back. So about this “special bag”… everyone knows the material of reusable grocery bags, right? The plastic like material they may or may not keep out moisture. Well picture that, just plaid and on a bunch of small, poorly made wheels. As my friends have referred it to as “the plaid garbage bag” (FML). So I bought it with the intension of attaching it to my suitcase and he would just follow like a well behaved little brother to Louie; however, this mishap of a brother walks like he’s wasted. You pull him one way and he follows for one step, turns directions and proceeds to fall over. Can everyone picture this cause I’m given up hope of having a classy trip and accepted I’m going to look like the most ridiculous traveler that Cyprus, London and Seattle has ever seen.
So long story short, if anyone reading this sees a girl trying to push one suitcase, pull another while picking up my plaid garbage can of a suitcase without dropping my shoulder bag, please give a girl a hand and keep the laughter to a minimum. I can’t stop laughing, I have no other choice. It’s going to be ciaos and I might as well embrace it.
Cheeeers! Let’s hope my 38 hours of travel doesn’t turn into any longer than it already is and that all four bags get home without any…. Serious issues :D
XOXO
Kayla
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Cyprus gets an A+ for winter festivities
I just had the most wondeful day and it's only 4PM. I woke up and went to downtown Nicosia to do some last minute shopping with a big group of friends, the 10 or so people left. We did some walking about together and then split off and I was just with my roommates Stephanie & Shami, and my other friend Alexis.
I ran over to the supermarket before we caught the bus. It was filled with Christmas decore and music playing and then sure enough they put up a cinnabon right outside Carrefour. I was so excited, gathered up enough change and bought one. Took it to the bus stop and enjoyed my treat until my friends joined me and it was time to go.
It's the perfect weather! I can bundle up (you know wear a scarf with my tank top, and at times my northface if I'm in the shade) and it's wonderful! Everyone else is completely bundled up but it’s great because it’s cold but still sunny.
There are Christmas decorations EVERYWHERE. Its amazing and so many Santas on the streets, one Santa even gave me a chocolate bar! Couldn't read the Turkish writing but I'm excited. There are lights lining all the streets and music everywhere. Last night we watched a school group of little kids in Santa hats singing Jiggle Bells in Greek, it was way too cute. Last night was rather perfect as well, a light sprinkle of rain so the street were wet with Christmas lights everywhere with live music.
I've been taking pictures and videos but I can't upload them until later. Just wanted to share my excitement for the holidays and Cyprus. It's probably one of the most festive places I've been during the holidays. I was surprised on the North side there were even Santa’s, for a small population of Christians that’s pretty awesome.
On another note, I need everyone to pray, cross your fingers or just do what you do... I need to get home for Christmas. I'm supposed to get home on the 21st of December. However, all my friends who left and went to Heathrow, London (exactly where my layover is in three days) are stuck there for at least 1 day if not more. The weather is terrible and the snow won't stop. A lot of public transportation in general is shut down. So please, positive thoughts for all my friends stuck there and pray for me to get home before Christmas, it's going to be one long adventure to say the least!
XOXO,
Kayla
I ran over to the supermarket before we caught the bus. It was filled with Christmas decore and music playing and then sure enough they put up a cinnabon right outside Carrefour. I was so excited, gathered up enough change and bought one. Took it to the bus stop and enjoyed my treat until my friends joined me and it was time to go.
It's the perfect weather! I can bundle up (you know wear a scarf with my tank top, and at times my northface if I'm in the shade) and it's wonderful! Everyone else is completely bundled up but it’s great because it’s cold but still sunny.
There are Christmas decorations EVERYWHERE. Its amazing and so many Santas on the streets, one Santa even gave me a chocolate bar! Couldn't read the Turkish writing but I'm excited. There are lights lining all the streets and music everywhere. Last night we watched a school group of little kids in Santa hats singing Jiggle Bells in Greek, it was way too cute. Last night was rather perfect as well, a light sprinkle of rain so the street were wet with Christmas lights everywhere with live music.
I've been taking pictures and videos but I can't upload them until later. Just wanted to share my excitement for the holidays and Cyprus. It's probably one of the most festive places I've been during the holidays. I was surprised on the North side there were even Santa’s, for a small population of Christians that’s pretty awesome.
On another note, I need everyone to pray, cross your fingers or just do what you do... I need to get home for Christmas. I'm supposed to get home on the 21st of December. However, all my friends who left and went to Heathrow, London (exactly where my layover is in three days) are stuck there for at least 1 day if not more. The weather is terrible and the snow won't stop. A lot of public transportation in general is shut down. So please, positive thoughts for all my friends stuck there and pray for me to get home before Christmas, it's going to be one long adventure to say the least!
XOXO,
Kayla
Friday, December 17, 2010
Tissue, please?
How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard... i will never forget you guys, thank you for some of the most amazing experiences of my life
So this has been one depressing weekend and it's just beginning. Wednesday we had our graduation ceremony with a slide show as well. It was a time to think about everything we've been through and it made me appreciate what wonderful people I met here. I will never forget them.
Later that evening we had dinner out as a group at the same restaurant we started our adventures at. It was perfect. After dinner a lot of us went out and it was one of the best nights here, before I knew it they were announcing it was closing and it was time to go home (a lot like my time here, it's gone by too fast!)
Next thing I knew I was giving hugs and watching tears drop... everyone was circulating through the apartment complex the next evening saying goodbye. About 7 people left at 5am, including my amazing roommate Kassidy. I have faith that one day I'll see her again, she is truly something special! I love her :)
Round two of goodbyes hit me in the face this afternoon. One after another came to say goodbye and then sure enough we all walked them down the street for their airport pick-up. It was sad and long drawn goodbye and for quote: "I have to go get in the bus, I'm leaking!" Tears were everywhere.
More girls leave tonight and so on. I'm basically the last one to leave. I leave Monday afternoon, but I am on the same flight as two of my friends so I'm grateful for that. I'm excited to go home and see my family but this has been horribly difficult and it will only get worse. To any of my GLS people reading, you have been truly lovely. I will never forget you, I'm so grateful to have been a part of this experience with you. All the best...
XOXO
Kayla
So this has been one depressing weekend and it's just beginning. Wednesday we had our graduation ceremony with a slide show as well. It was a time to think about everything we've been through and it made me appreciate what wonderful people I met here. I will never forget them.
Later that evening we had dinner out as a group at the same restaurant we started our adventures at. It was perfect. After dinner a lot of us went out and it was one of the best nights here, before I knew it they were announcing it was closing and it was time to go home (a lot like my time here, it's gone by too fast!)
Next thing I knew I was giving hugs and watching tears drop... everyone was circulating through the apartment complex the next evening saying goodbye. About 7 people left at 5am, including my amazing roommate Kassidy. I have faith that one day I'll see her again, she is truly something special! I love her :)
Round two of goodbyes hit me in the face this afternoon. One after another came to say goodbye and then sure enough we all walked them down the street for their airport pick-up. It was sad and long drawn goodbye and for quote: "I have to go get in the bus, I'm leaking!" Tears were everywhere.
More girls leave tonight and so on. I'm basically the last one to leave. I leave Monday afternoon, but I am on the same flight as two of my friends so I'm grateful for that. I'm excited to go home and see my family but this has been horribly difficult and it will only get worse. To any of my GLS people reading, you have been truly lovely. I will never forget you, I'm so grateful to have been a part of this experience with you. All the best...
XOXO
Kayla
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