Shades of Grey

One thing that I love about world travel is that people are more open to meeting, striking up conversations, and getting to know one another. Perhaps there is a reduced risk given that the relationship must end after a finite period of time. One does not need to be concerned about starting a friendship and then regret such a choice. When traveling, I find it much easier to sit with complete strangers, strike up conversations, and easily form friendships. I have made life long friendships with travel mates every time I have visited a far country. For example, the last time I visited New Zealand, I made eye contact with Ian Ginzberg (from Sydney Australia) across a street at a bus stop in Pahia. Neither of us can really explain why we decided to approach one another and strike up conversation, but we are glad that we did. Another friendship started during a hike on the South Island with a German girl named Parvin Siebel. We have been in constant contact since, have traveled together to other countries, and I have witnessed her marriage to Peter Freischlad (twice – once in Germany and once in Canada). On this trip, we have connected with Stefan and Heike. The fact that these friendships develop so easily when in a foreign place makes me wonder why we are so hesitant to do the same thing in our own country. Why is it odd to walk up to a complete stranger and converse in the same way that we do when we travel?

Another thing that I love about world travel is that there is time to reflect on life and gain a true perspective about those values that are most important. The day to day routines can occupy territory in our mind that otherwise may be used to really think about what matters the most. During past trips I have realized the necessity for balance and learned that happiness comes from fulfillment rather than material possessions. These lessons have made me a better person and therefore it is no surprise that I promote world travel to everyone who can afford it. On this trip I have gained an appreciation for the importance of connecting with my son and partner. Fenton is a blessing and Heather is without a doubt the best mother he could have ever hoped for. Having this time away from the various distractions in Edmonton has helped me to learn how to make those important connections that strengthen us as a family.

This morning we woke up in the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park to make some gluten free pancakes and make our way to Nelson Lakes. Nelson Lakes are exquisite, but few tourists make it there. In my opinion, a beautiful place that lacks crowds is ideal. We drove there via a secondary road with plenty of the twists and turns that have been described in past posts. The environment of New Zealand really changes as you move from one area to another. The Nelson Lakes area is extremely lush with every plant emitting a neon green glow. Unfortunately being a rain forest can mean that it will rain a lot. We decided to have lunch at a nice restaurant that overlooked the beautiful parks and make our way to Greymouth for the night.

Greymouth may be the most appropriately named city in the world. The Grey River empties into the ocean at Greymouth, hence it’s name. The Grey River is rich in sediment, and therefore looks like mud flowing through lush rainforest. The rocks in Greymouth are beautiful in that they have specks with thousands of shades of grey. The grey rocks are eroded by the ocean constantly crashing into it and blowholes can be seen along the coast where water shoots up into the air every time a wave hits. To top it off, the west side of New Zealand tends to get more rain, so the skies are often overcast, and a mist hangs over the city. I wonder if depression is more frequent here. One upside to the town is the local brewery known as Monteith’s. They make a variety of ales and lagers (though all beers are made with the same lager yeast) as well as some exceptional apple cider.

We are hoping for improved weather as we make our way to the beautiful town of Wanaka.