Today is day 100 of the Big Trip. Thinking about what that means, I really have a hard time putting it all in perspective. One thing I've been thinking about is that it really feels like so much longer than just 100 days. Particularly given how many experiences I've had since leaving for Europe back in August. That's one of the main beauties of this journey, compacting so much of the life experience I cherish into what would otherwise be an impossibly short period of time for such a thing. On the other hand, I can't believe so much time has passed, and that my scheduled trip is about 40% complete. I have a hard time thinking it's November, and that on the other side of the planet my friends and family are prepping for the holidays while winter is looming. It's crazy to think it's already this far into the trip. But, that just reminds me how easily this time could have passed without going out on this journey. I'm pretty thrilled I'm here, and have been where I've been during these last 100 days. Here's to another 150 brilliant, fun and sometimes tough, but always interesting days.
With that sentiment, here's a recap of my top experiences thus far:
- Jordan - Petra. This was such a great couple of days, it had everything I enjoy all compressed into a short period of time. Beautiful geography, great new people, great old people and physically & mentally demanding challenges. I'll never forget the hike up the back side of the mountain to enter the monastery or the amazingness of leaving through the Siq at dusk.
- Israel - Hiking the Maktesh Ramon. This was a truly wild and fun experience and I did it completely alone. It forced me to face some fears and gave me some of the best scenery I've ever experienced in my life. Great decision to go there, an unexpected joy I think about often.
- Joran - Wadi Rum. I always knew I'd be going to Wadi Rum, and I had really high hopes for the experience. And it did not disappoint. I'll be writing a post just about Wadi Rum with a bunch of the photos that hopefully capture the desolate beauty of this place. I found it magical sleeping out in the desert and trekking through what felt like other-worldly rock formations and peaceful, pink/orange hued dunes.
- Italy - Positano Boat Ride. This was really early in the trip but just a pure, unhindered day of fun. Sharing it with Phil and Mom made it even better. I'll need to get Phil to come with me to my next sea-side destination to captain another boat.
- Italy - Pizza Naples. I knew I would love the pizza here. I didn't think I would eat quite as much of it as I did. But it was glorious, and will be repeated.
- Sweden - Lake House near Karlstad. I couldn't have come up with a more relaxing beautiful retreat if I had planned it myself (which I didn't, thanks Anders!). Hanging out in the sauna and taking dips in the midnight-moon-lit lake was pretty sweet.
- Croatia - Not a ton happened in Croatia. And thats exactly how I wanted it. Hanging out with Sarah and LItsy, and sipping too many lattes in various cafes was a perfect vacation from my travels. Rejuvenating, if a little fattening (damn you eastern Europe for your delicious pastry obsession!).
- Paris - Pure fun. This is what a weekend in Paris should be like. Tons of art. Great new friends. Great conversation. Amazing bread. Outstanding Cheese. These things won't soon be forgotten.
- India - Salaam Baalak Trust City Walk. Litsy found this walk given by former Delhi street kids. It was one of coolest things I've ever done while traveling. I didn't see much other than the centers where the Trust cares for its children. But, I interacted with some lovely kids who didn't have a home but clearly had a ton of spirit. Hearing the success stories of our guides, who turned the page from being homeless in Delhi to having big dreams was truly moving.
- Israel - Prayer Service for Sukkot at The Western Wall. This was pretty great and again, unplanned. I couldn't understand a word of the prayer but I could feel the spirit of the thousands gathered around me in solemn unity.
Special Mention I: Indian Food. I can't eat exactly as much of it as I would like, but man the food here is pretty spectacular. I'm currently dreaming of returning to Pind Balluchi in Delhi and pigging out on various curry and tikka dishes.
Special Mention II: Tel Aviv. What can I say, I love Tel Aviv. I'm not sure why. But it doesn't matter, it's a place I'll return to in the near future for sure. I look forward to more jogs along the beach, delicious food and great people watching.
Looking forward to much more stuff that feels like this:
