Monthly Archives: February 2012

And the universe keeps giving…

Posted on February 29, 2012 by erikamae82

After my extraordinary stay in Timaru, Ping was able to find me a ride with a kind gentlemen that was heading to work in the next main stop, Lake Tekapo. When I was notified that I had a ride (leaving in 10 minutes) I through everything in my bag, skipped the shower and ate my apple along the way. By the time we got there, my stomach was polity informing me that it was definitely time to eat. I say this because through finances and time restriction I wasn’t as prepared as I usually am in the food departnent.
We walk into the tavern where he was working and there sat a friendly family talking around a table. I smiled as I walked by and the guy says “Hey, are you hungry? The kitchen gave us too many sandwiches, please take one!”. I was literally handed a meal. No joke! Deep breath and a big smile. Blissful how it all works out.

So I planned (oh silly plans) on hitching out of there that same day…Then i looked around! This place is home of the highest mountain in New Zealand and known for the best star gazing on the island. Due to the popularity, I figured it would already be booked out for the night but it was worth a try. You think?

I walk up to the front desk and asked if there was a bed available. His response was “Hmm, well we only have a bed in the dorms which is our cheapest option. Would that work?”
Wow… Thanks kharma, I will be paying this forward at every opportunity.

Here is the main lounge of the hostel (just a basic YHA) and yes… That’s the lake in view!

Kitchen and dining area.

Door leading to my room.

Everyone in the room is doing their backpacker solo thing with light conversation and instantly I connect with this awesome girl from New York City. We chatted about random stuff for a bit then decided a walk around this gorgeous place was a must. As we’re getting ready to head out I say “I’m sorry, have I asked your name?”. She responds “Erika”. How embarrassing, she remembered my name and I don’t have a clue what hers is! “Right, and YOUR name?” I ask. “Erica” she says. “Oh…haha, your name is Erika too!”

So we walk! Here’s some of what you’d see around this stunning place.

Erica and I found this bench over looking the water and a historic church. Can you see the bride walking? Beautiful.

We decided to stop by the pub on the way back for a local drink. This your view while sitting at the main bar.

While enjoying or drinks, we got approached by some locals for a game if pool. A name exchange is necessary and from that point on we were named “The Erika’s from America”. To tell us apart they called me “Cali” and her “New York”. Others referred to us as “West Coast” and “East Coast”.

After we return to the hostel, I continued to ask around for a ride to Queenstown. (I forgot to mention that I had earlier asked Erica if she was going that way, but the answer was “No, but we’ll find you a ride!”)

So this is when it gets even better… Erica turns to me after awhile and delightfully says “Wait, what am I thinking, I should head THAT way… Wanna ride to Queenstown?”

All righty universe, now you’re just showing off! I received both rides, a meal, a safe place to sleep in a tranquil location and a new friend! I feel the love!

Remember how I mentioned New Zealand weather changes? This was the view leaving the next day. I still love the way this looks though.

Here is my new passenger seat. Pretty much a sweet ride if I don’t say so myself.

Quick stop to see “Meg Falls”.

Ooh, what’s this I see?

Last pit stop was a cup of tea from this adorable little country store (that looked like it was straight out of a movie).

Finally, Queenstown… One flight, one ferry, a campervan, bus ride, hitch hike and road trip with Erica… I made it!!

Check out the hill she had to park the baby beast on. Well done girl, well done! Queenstown post coming soon!

Categories: Accommodations, Uncategorized | Tags: girl from new york, girl from new york city, gorgeous place, lake tekapo | 2 Comments

Hitch hike to a hidden treasure in Timaru

Posted on February 27, 2012 by erikamae82

The best unexpected stop of my journey so far!
Things happen for a reason… The universe works in mysterious ways… I’m lucky… Kharma pays… It all happens the way it’s supposed too.(You can fill in your own phrase that may sum up the reason I was meant to be exactly where I was last weekend).

Let’s start with hitch hiking. I put on my big girl pants, made an awesome sign and took the bus to the edge of town. There I stood with my backpack, hoping someone would be going in the same direction and willing to pick up a smiling traveler headed south. The thumb out and look of desperation doesn’t suit me well so I went with a huge smile and the wave. Yes folks, I waved at each vehicle passing as if it was a long time friend I hadn’t seen in years. Did I score? Yes! Within 5 minutes a car pulls off and as I approach the window I see a sweet guy around the age of 18 with a genuine look and smile as big as mine. I jumped in with Hamish for the ride to his home town of Timaru.

So if you check out a map, Timaru is a little less than half way from Christchurch to Queenstown (my ultimate goal) so I was pretty stoked. I had him drop me off at McDonalds due to their free wifi and the opportunity to contact another ride. (Pause for a minute and really grasp that visual. Me at McD’s, that alone is awkward…then add all my bags in a small town… Spectacular!) After moments of research I found a hotel thats a part of my Help X volunteer program. I gave them a call and this is where my journey turns for a direction beyond my imagination. I meet Ping. When we spoke he mentioned it was a busy night and he already had help, but he would call me back. 5 minutes later, my phone rang and he says “In your profile, it mentions you’re a hairstylist”…. And then it began. He came and picked me up with a beaming smile and an energy that grew through our conversation.

The “Grosvenor” is a hotel with 2 bars, restaurant, lounge and casino. This place has the coolest vibe with an awesome staff… A staff that all needed haircuts! I arrived at my new home for the night (even though I ended up staying the whole weekend) and got my scissors out right away. During my stay I got to do 7 haircuts on a variety of thankful people. Here are a few of the gals.

After the cuts were done, energy picked up as I was informed that they were hosting a Maori Rugby event that night. Of course I offer my help and to my pleasant surprise, I get to bartend and bus the entire evening! Amazing how exciting it was to get back in the “work mode” so much fun!

As if I wasn’t already stoked for some work and a good nights sleep, they offer me dinner from the menu. I requested they make me their favorite dish however the chef would like. I got local fish and chips with tons of veggies, double score! (I’ll post about what exactly I did with this scrumptious plate to make it last the entire weekend. Look for it soon in my “edibles” category).

The next day I got to snap some photos around this enchanting building that was built in 1878. Ping has brought back most of it’s original foundation and added a modern “kiwi” flare. It’s clear he’s put as much thought into this creation as passion into his surroundings. An inspiration for sure. Check this place out!
www.eight wired.co.nz .

This is the front desk area that you see when you first walk in.

Then they close the doors. (Tui is the local beer)

Bar area

This is the “#8” which is the old sports bar. It was damaged by the quakes so they’re in the process of rebuilding.

I don’t know what I like best about this photo. Either the childrens booster seat next to the cigarette machine, the poster of Marilyn Manroe or the hilarious bathroom sign!

Fun around the place.

Men’s bathroom… Super creative use of an old keg and taps!

This is the wall the boys “use” for their toilet.

These are some paintings on the wall you see on the way to my room.

My room. Let me remind you that I’ve been sleeping in hostel bunk beds, tree houses and vans… This place made me feel like a queen! I had my own tea kettle, a bed with 2 pillows, private bathroom with a hot water shower and real toilet! Spoiled? Yes I was.

Ping decided to take me for a walk and drop me off for “Erika time” as he called it. We walked for a bit untill we hit the coast. He took me to a beach that most travelers don’t know about and suggested I just roam around from there.

Rocks. Love them. Started with this pile…

…realized the magnificent colors I was surrounded by…

…then combined all of them!

Got lost in the industrial park.

Found some train tracks.

Then just wandered the city…

Found some cute shops.

… And this little guy!

“Thank you” doesn’t really describe my true appreciation for everyone at the Grosvenor. I felt more than welcomed right away into such a positive, warm family that makes my stop in tiny Timaru my favorite so far. A very sincere personal thanks to my new friends for a memorable weekend that will always hold a place in my heart.

Categories: Accommodations, Art, Edibles!, Uncategorized | Tags: awesome sign, volunteer program | 2 Comments

Christchurch and the Rucksacker

Posted on February 25, 2012 by erikamae82

After van camping and volunteering I was able to stay 3 nights in Christchurch. This is the city that was hit with two major earth quakes in the past year and thousands of aftershocks to follow. Unfortunately the buildings of the city are currently being demolished but through the rebuilding, people are still smiling and the surviving businesses are open and eager for visitors.

On my first day I got to reconnect with Andrew, a guy I met in Wellington. This gentleman gave me the “roll down your window” sign and yelled out his number from a cab at a stoplight after the Sevens tournament. Classic! Turns out he’s much fun and was so cool to show me around the city.

Us on the way to the beach

I then resided at a tiny hostel called the “Rucksacker”. This is by far the most cozy hostel I’ve stayed in so far. With just a few rooms and the staff that lives next door, you feel like a regular every time you walk in. There were also quite a few “long termers” that stay there during their work visa, this creates a comfy “home” vibe.
They all knew each other by name and if you forgot a name, you just referred to them by country ex: “Has anyone seen Belgium around?”
Although, you couldn’t use Germany due to the amount of them… They’re everywhere (and some of my favs!)
The building on the left is the hostel and the one next door is the employee residence.

The first night I arrived there was a costume party out back. Well who happened to still have the kitten accessories from the Sevens Tournament? I let this sweet girl borrow it for the night so I could cut some hair…woohoo!

I have never stayed with so many travelers that love to cook with fresh ingredients. This kitchen was full of chefs every night… Fresh veggies, organic meat on homemade pizza dough was the dish of the evening.

Meanwhile, I was out back sewing up a shirt of mine and got some requests. This character had a hole in his shorts so off they went so I could fix them up.

Last day there I took a walk through the outskirts of the city center. I took a lot of photos of the earth quake damage, but didn’t really focus on that part… so here are a few random shots.

Not everyday…

I was so excited to find this. You can buy any amount of eggs you want! I know this isn’t a big deal to most of you, but being a solo traveler, I don’t need a dozen at a time or even half dozen. I bought 3 and skipped out out there so happy!

Found a salon that sells Moroccon Oil, yeah! Can you see the price? So next time you buy a bottle… consider it sale price, haha! The hairspray behind it was $42.

This is a cute little bar lounge made out of shipping containers.

Time to get out of town!

Categories: Accommodations, Fashion from a backpack, Uncategorized | Tags: earth quakes, homemade pizza dough, organic meat, sevens tournament, stoplight, work visa | Leave a comment

Volunteering on the reserve

Posted on February 22, 2012 by erikamae82

The past 5 days of volunteering has been a mind full of new information and experiences that brought unexpected lessons about maintaing a reserve. The “Hinewai Reserve” sits on the far peninsula coast, east of Christ Church. To arrive at this welcoming place you must first drive through an adorable town called Akaroa (that I’ve spent this entire time pronouncing differently every time i say it). Here are a few photos of the day spent in this cute town with Kuldip. She’s from Malaysia and is here to volunteer with me. We went from total strangers to roommates and work aquaintences within minutes of arrival. What an intriguing girl (who invited me to her home country for a personal guided visit… She only had to ask once, Malaysia is now on my list!

From here you have to drive over the hills and through the woods (no joke) before you peak over to the view if this gorgeous bay. Part of the drive is open to the public, however over night stay has to be reserved.

Once we arrived, we’re shown our new home for the week. This precious little cabin that sits away from the main house has a mini fridge, stove top oven, sink, table and 2 sets of bunk beds… Coolest clubhouse ever! Instant flash back of my childhood. (Quick love to my dear cousins- I look at your pictures often and remember sneaking candy to the tree houses, camping on the trampoline, and the countless hours sitting around together playing cards, spoons and every other game known to our crazy family! Thank you for the wonderful experiences that have enhanced who I am today).
Ok, back to the clubhouse…

Our job here is to pretty much help out with any and everything that Trisha and Paul need accomplished. Trisha and Paul are absolutely splendid to be around and have the most gentle way of running the property. They respect the land, animals and other travelers as much as they expect it in return. Both have been met with some health challenges as well as being hit with the well known earthquakes of New Zealand. We are here to help get things sorted! Here is a pic of the lovely couple and us at dinner.

Here at the reserve they have chickens whom I bonded with every time I went to check the clothes hanging on the line, rare birds that are always chatting up good conversation and sheep that force us to keep the gates closed so they don’t eat the veggies from the garden. As if the fruit trees, fresh veggies and beautiful scenery wasn’t enough, they also have an assortment of wild animals including but not limited to: rabbits, opossum, rare birds, and eels… yes wild eel!

The mailbox hut

When the sun is shining we do the outside chores and have a bit of fun at theta beach.

When the clouds roll in and the weather changes in seconds (totally normal here) we head inside to detail the house, make homemade goodies or finish up random tasks.

The last night here we had a barbecue birthday party for the owner of the property. This man needs to win some sort of “Super hero” award. His vibrant personality and enthusiasm for life left me reviewing my own outlook and forcing a positive evaluation of my attitude towards so many different subjects. I’m so thankful he was brought onto my path… What an experience. Happy birthday Hugh!

Colorful food and homemade cider (the adult kind)! What a great meal to wrap up this week. Thank you Trisha and Paul!

Time to get out of town…

Categories: Accommodations, Edibles!, Fashion from a backpack, Uncategorized | 3 Comments

New Category… Food!

Posted on February 22, 2012 by erikamae82

I know, I know… I’ve been slacking in the food blogging department, sorry friends! Those of you who have a general idea of my views on health know it plays a large part of my daily routine. Not only do I love to eat, I thoroughly love to create dishes that balance nutrition and flavor while keeping it convenient and low cost, especially while traveling! I wasn’t going to create this section assuming “everyone knows this trick” or “nobody would ever eat this”, but silly me… I have been pleasantly surprised at the questions I’ve received about my food choices and even more excited about the curiosity that usually follows. Either from people back in the states asking “I know how you eat when you’re here… So what are YOU eating on the road?” or from other travelers that have an eyebrow up when I bust out the walnuts and frozen peas.

Please note: I have minimal documented education on health science or nutrition. Most of what you will read is what I’ve independently researched, practiced and found to work for me. Who says they’re ALL right anyway?

No need to fear, I’ll also include any of the unique eats I fall upon either at famous restaurants or the local mom and pop cafes. Also not forgetting about fine beverages and deserts i’ll sample… you know, all for the blogs purpose right?

So I only have one rule that I’ve set and kept during all my travels, drum roll please….
Not to eat or drink from any chain restaurants that I can get back in the states, specifically California. I have walked several blocks, passing many starbucks just for a local coffee and oats. Stubbornly I’ve waited for lunch while my fellow travel partners have grabbed a Subway sandwich or Dominos pizza. I’ve never starved and it’s always worth it.
Beyond that simple rule, i have a few general “guild lines” that I like to keep in mind while making my eating and drinking choices. I feel like “rules” naturally make people want to bend or break them, so “guild lines” just create an idea of would be (what i think) are better choices.

This category of the blog has only just begun so let me give a quick shout out to my favorite food and the rest will follow in good time.

Veggies, herbs and vegetables! (No worries wonderful fruit, you get your own post). I’m not a vegetarian but vegetables and herbs are my “go to” for flavor, fullness factor, weight management and the main source of my nutrient intake (the goal is not having to depend on man made supplements).

Talk about organic! Almost had this little guy for lunch…

Some of you may hear the word “vegetables” and find the disturbing image of soggy canned corn and peas on a plate with your loving great aunt telling you to “Eat em up… They’re good for you!”

Personal note: My great aunts would never do such a thing.

Quick analogy: Let’s say your favorite treat is a moist piece of homemade (enter favorite cake, cookie or pie here) with a scoop of fresh cold vanilla ice cream. You meet someone who says “Yuck, I had one of those from the lunch truck last year and after scraping off the layer of ice fuzz, I didn’t really prefer the flavor of the brownie thing that could of been a cookie or possibly smashed cake. And I wasn’t a fan of the ice-cream either because i didn’t like how it was able to string from my plate to fork when I scooped it.”
Sad day, right?

This is the way I feel when I here of those horrific veggie-tales. In future posts I’ll be giving some delightful recipe ideas that not only leave you liking vegetables… But craving them!

Herbs. This is the not the word that describes the white sandy stuff that you saturate your brussels sprouts with or the cheesy goo that covers your broccoli. I’m talking about natures magnificent field of flavors! I’ll get into more detail of some of my favorites with future recipes.

Categories: Edibles!, Uncategorized | Leave a comment

I’m alive…and living!

Posted on February 18, 2012 by erikamae82

During the past 3 days we’ve driven south from Westport then turned east through Arthurs Pass to make it to Christchurch on the east side of the island. The view from my seat reminds me of the tropics of Hawaii combined with the beaches and forestry that lines the west coast of North America. The last open valley we were in could of been the twin sister of Colorado with the snow kissed peaks and rocky rivers flowing peacefully through it.
Along this gorgeous road trip we’ve stopped at so many different treks, hikes, scenic points, waterfalls, swimming holes, rocks, walks, creeks, caves, camp sites and small towns that i thought i’d just do an entire post on it. The following is a colaberation of pictures along our most recent miles covered.

Building a stone tower… My form of meditation.

Finding one that’s been there for years… Awesome!

Caves! We saw a tiny sign that said “Cave scenic walk”, with an arrow that we followed. When we parked there was a group of kiwis getting wetsuits on with gear… Score! Except we had a flashlight, and swim shorts. Probably my favorite hike so far!

Picked up another hitch hiker, he’s from Germany… Can’t ya tell? Super nice guy and a fun addition to our route.

..and they let me drive! (They drive on the left side like England).

After debating what the smell was for a good 50 km’s we realized it was time for showers… Found our bathtub!

Last stretch…

Sweet dreams.

Categories: Uncategorized | Tags: caves camp, hitch hiker, stone tower, swimming holes | 4 Comments

Hostel stop…

Posted on February 14, 2012 by erikamae82

Hugs and high fives as we part ways for the night. He’s off to camp in the peaks of a new mountain and I’ve decided to “camp out” at a local hostel in Westport. On the way we pick up a couple of hitch hikers, do unto others as you would have done unto you…

What a cool find! It’s called “Bazil Hostel”, a backpackers dream. It’s clean, comfortable and has a very laid back vibe with a variety of culture.

On the premises:

Laundry room… My travel partner shall thank me later.

Multiple kitchens… We know I love the food!

Outdoor chill area with music playing and a covered barbecue area.

My room (that I had all to myself!)

If you want to just camp out, do it… Literally!

Thank you super staff (which is this awesome guy who I plan on reuniting with in Spain).

Lastly, a haircut to this fantastic young traveler with a colorful outlook on life… With her ultimate goals and the lack of over planning, she was a fun splash of “different” during my stay here in Westport.

When he picks me up in the morning we’re heading farther south to check out the “Pancake rocks”… Till then… Still smilin!

Categories: Accommodations, Fashion from a backpack, Uncategorized | Tags: barbecue area, high fives, hitch hikers, laundry room, travel partner | Leave a comment

Farewell Spit

Posted on February 14, 2012 by erikamae82

We woke up to sunshine, yeah! Before heading to Westport we drove up the far north to a beach on the “Farewell Spit”. This was by far one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen in person. We were the only footprints in the sand for the entire morning. White beaches meeting blue water that hugged dark rocks… What a gloriuos breath of air.

This was a design in the sand made from the water rising and falling back.

My camera ran out of batteries, so these next shots were taken from my iPad. Try to overlook the quality and check out the clarity of this water!

To Westport we go!

Categories: Uncategorized | Tags: beautiful places, blue water, dark rocks, footprints in the sand | 1 Comment

Hill top view

Posted on February 14, 2012 by erikamae82

We ended up turning off a little gravel road that led us to a circle dirt parking place. Hmmm…. That’s a huge hill, let’s climb it!

This was the view from the top… See our little van?

Of course with this fabulous view, the pictures started flowing. Here’s just a few from way too many to post.

From up here we actually spotted out a beach we wanted to camp at… Found it!

This was our dinner place set up. Beats any kitchen table I’ve sat at!

Categories: Accommodations, Uncategorized | Tags: fabulous view, gravel road, kitchen table, view from the top | Leave a comment

Ferry ride and first day in the South

Posted on February 13, 2012 by erikamae82

Rise and shine, time for the ferry ride from the North to the South Island

When I was 14 years old and hanging out with “the wrong crowd” I took a $.05 jolly rancher out of the bucket from a local gas station… Without paying… Eek! This was totally out of my character, but I did it. I walked all the way home with the candy in my hand and a ball of yuck in my guts. It took a solid 10 minutes before I walked all the way back to the station with $.10, put it on the counter with the candy and said “I took this without paying.”
The kid (probably 19 yrs old) behind the counter said something to the effect of “Okaaay…. So?”.
Point of this story is to show how much I don’t like the idea of cheating, stealing, lying and so forth. Which leads me to this next post… the ferry ride.

I’m not going to say much, pictures will speak for themselves…

Once we made it across, we started our towards the west coast.

Why not hike along the way? This is a path that leads to the purest water in New Zealand. Untouched by man and the clearest natural springs that I have ever seen.