Tous ensemble

Yesterday, you draped our day under a big black veil.

Today, we paint our pain black-yellow-red.

We are not a proud people. We do not loudly announce our nationality as soon as we enter a room. We barely ever boast with the colours of our flag. But today, despite your efforts to divide us, we stand strong, like on those rare occasions our national football team wins. We stand, “tous ensemble”.

We know that among us, there will be those who try to instill fear on us, but our prayers and songs of love and peace will drown out their ever-growing voices of hatred.

You will not make us doubt the goodness of humanity; you will not taint our innocence. This new generation does not believe in hatred, we do not tolerate violence. Our growing hearts, however filled with doubts, sadness and anger, will triumph over your damaged souls.

I must admit, that for a while, you made me doubt the power of love. I feared that my generation, including myself, would stop believing in world peace. We are so overwhelmed by the negativity that goes on around us, by all kinds of media, that sometimes it is hard to hold on to our hopes for a loving world.

Yesterday was one of those days of doubt, a day on which I mourned the dead and those who are affected. It was also a day on which I held my breath, waiting for the skies to fall down on my head.
But it didn’t, we prevailed.

I am reminded that love and peace will always triumph. I am reminded that my generation is the future, and it will be bright.

Mark my words.

Travel means ... preaching world peace.

 

It took some time for me to take a pen and paper and express how I feel after terror struck so close to home. My parents raised me and my siblings to be opinionated. But for once I was at an absolute loss for words and opinions. Usually I would have my peace cries at the ready. However, on the morning of 14 November, after reading the news, I was dumbstruck and empty. Something had broken inside.
My boyfriend - a loving and caring soul - has been an army guy through and through for almost 5 years now, so naturally by training and personality, he is prone to choose a more violent approach. You know the kind; "an eye for an eye". Normally we have arguments about these kind of things because I strongly believe the words of Mahatma Gandhi "an eye for an eye, make the whole world go blind". But that morning I was just scared. At first I thought this fear originated from a more primal place where we yearn safety. But by the end of the day I realized this fear came from the fact that I did not feel like contradicting my boyfriend. I was scared of my own thoughts, because for once the only solution I could think of was the one my army-man provided.
After a few days of intensively reading up on the situation and following any news report, I came out of my revery. Thank the power of peace.

So here I am, with a peaceful solution like the one my younger, more carefree, self would have thrown into your face long ago. As I mentioned above I've done a lot of reading to make sure my facts are straight, so I'll add links in the bottom.

I consider this rescue plan for all of humanity to be two-fold.
First of all, put down your guns, and make all your fighter pilots return home safely. All this violence is only making it worse, to my opinion. I fully understand that the leaders of the western world are angry and feel pressured to take action swiftly and boldly. As I mentioned earlier, even I thought violence was the answer at some point. But then a took a moment and reflected on the whole picture. These hijackers of our freedom only want one thing: enlarge their group of followers. Naturally this is the last thing that we all want. However our foreign policy suggests otherwise. By causing more "collateral damage" with the recent bombings over villages where both IS fighters and innocent human beings lay low, we hand the Salafi preachers extra recruiting material. With every sign of hatred, racism or Islamophobia they win another innocent soul. As Nicolas Hénin states: "The
Islamic State longs to provoke retaliation. We should not fall into the trap." We should not give them that satisfaction.  We should show these preachers of hatred that we do not stand for any kind violence. We should teach them a lesson in compassion, by loving all. We should lend a caring hand and ear to those who feel misunderstood, so that they do not fall into the wrong hands who are willing to listen and eventually brainwash them. We all need to hold hands in this fight against hatred.
I realize that this discourse sounds as if I am defending these lost souls. I am not! Any murder is a slap in the face of humanity. I too want these bad guys to be punished for there wrong doings. This does mean we have to get our facts straight and attack the right people in the right way.

Which brings me to my second advice (if you are willing): choose your ally well, and pick the right enemies. I feel like we are targeting the wrong people. We are fighting the symptoms without dealing with the illness. The whole of Europe is frantically for these jihadi's we see on their videos of terror. Say we catch all the jihadi's, what happens then? Don't you think the Salafi preachers won't find new followers. These jihadi's are disposable, replaceable to them. "street kids drunk on ideology and power" according to journalist Hénin, dangerous despite/because of their stupidity. Won't it be far more efficient if we took all the funds we are now putting into bombs and super sturdy and aggressive police forces, and used it for intelligence units who could help smoke out these deluded preachers and unethical Saudi and Qatari sponsors. They are the ones who keep enabling this violence, by either seducing youngsters into believing a fairytale or by financing all kinds of inhuman activities. They are our primary target, if you will.

As an end note I would like to suggest the follow to the world of tomorrow; smile to your neighbor, lend a hand to those you are in need and maybe most importantly, meditate to elevate the general consciousness.

Lots of love,
Tweenie



For those who are interested:

• http://www.demorgen.be/opinie/de-echte-vijanden-zijn-niet-de-jihadi-s-zelf-maar-de-salafistische-predikers-die-hen-hun-overtuiging-aanpraten-ba7c0441/
• http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2015/nov/16/isis-bombs-hostage-syria-islamic-state-paris-attacks

It's an Aussie thing..

G'day everyone and welcome to a new continent, where I'll take you onto an adventure to the Magical Land of Oz and it's diverse cultural aspects.

In short: allow me to introduce to you a few Aussie things!

First of all, whoever thought that the Australians don't have their own language, will find themselves very much mistaken upon arrival. Apart from the Aboriginal language and the fact that the Australian English has different pronunciations, it also has a different vocabulary. The most obvious vocabulary alternation is the use of shorter words. Almost every (with some exaggeration) long word in de English dictionary has a shorter Australian version. For example: mosquito = mozzie, McDonalds = Macca's, Australian = Aussie, Barbeque = barbie, kangaroo = roo, breakfast = breakie, Tasmania = Tassie, and so on.

In other words, using the term Aussie is definitely an Aussie thing. You sound definitely keep your ears open for their peculiar expressions. Like for example, “chuck a yewey”, meaning: Make a U-turn. Or the very famous “No worries”, basically meaning as much as: “forget about it” or “don’t worry about it” or “that’s all right” or “I will/can do it”.

Another truly Aussie thing is Rubber Tramping (trekking around by car). Aussies and foreigners alike love to travel around this magnificently big country by car. You have your "Grey Nomads" on the one hand; pensioners travelling around with their caravan/camper van. These nomads are more often than not Aussies. On the other hand you have your backpackers (that's us!). Then you also have everything in between; from 4WDs in every shape and size to road trains.

As I only have experience with "Rubber Tramping: Backpack style", I will only give tips and tricks on that aspect.

The Great Ocean Road, one of the amazing paths to travel..  

Starting off with your most important utility of your travels: your car. This will probably be your bed, kitchen and transport for the duration of your stay. There are several options when it comes to getting around by car. (Of course, public transport and air travel are also options but they do not give you the same experience of the country and are often quite expensive). Back to the options: you could buy a car, hire one or hitch along with people who already own one. The latter is probably the cheapest option and comes with the least amount of responsibilities. The flipside is that you'll most probably have to make a lot of compromises and loose a little of your freedom, as you'll have to adjust your plans to those of your travel companion. You could easily find a ride on numerous Facebook groups like for example "Australia Backpackers Working Holiday Visa". Or if you just search "Australia ride share" you'll surely find a suitable mate.

The second option - hiring a car - is easy because you bare less responsibility than owning a car but you still have the freedom of going wherever you like. The downside is the price. There are companies that are specialised in Backpackers, their rentals are often well-equipped and ready to go. A couple of these companies are: Britz or Apollo (campers, all sizes)

, Wicked (regular and fully equipped stationwagens) and Jucy (stationwagens, fully equipped, all sizes).

Finally there's the option of buying your own car and selling it again. (This is the option we chose). Meet Pumba:

Pro's are the comfort of owning your own car and it would probably be cheaper than a rental, especially long term. The cons would be the responsibilities. Finding a car of your liking will prove much easier when you submit your preferences onto the following Facebook group: "Australia Backpacker cars". The admin does a great job in linking a seller with a suitable buyer (and vice versa). This group is also useful at the end of your travels when you decide to hand over your trusted travel companion on to the next backpacker. Don't forget that you will most probably still have to register the car or at least change the name on the Rego (another Aussie word, meaning registration), which will take some time and money. Transferring the Rego from the previous owner is free in most of the states, though.

Either way, Rubber Tramping is the way to go when you wish to discover the Land of Oz. Now, when or if you decide to travel around by car there are some road related Aussie things you should probably know about.

When driving, you should definitely look out for wildlife. Not only because it's amazing to see a kangaroo or a wallaby hop along side the road or have a pack of emus run beside you. Funnily enough you don't get bored of seeing these awesome creatures. Even after seeing hundreds of kangaroos, you still frantically look for them in de bushes and become so excited when you actually see one. It tends to take your breath away a little: it's that wondrous. But, these wonders also tend to cross the road unannounced. As most wildlife in Australia is nocturnal, you'll have to be extra careful around dusk or dawn. Although it's best to keep your eyes peeled at all time, even if it's just to take in as much beauty as possible.

Here's a Roo with it's Joey ;)

Here's an Emu (pronounced Emju), in case you were wondering what it looks like.

It might also be wise to understand the vastness and often emptiness of this country. Australia is made up of big city along the edges with basically nothing in between them expect some odd towns (sometimes consisting of a single cattle or other station) scattered alongside the highways.

If you plan on travelling from the south to the north or vice versa via the centre, prepare yourself for endless looking roads with no change in the scenery. From Adelaide to Darwin, there’s only one-way to go: The Stuart Highway. Another very famous never-ending-road-of-nothing takes you from Adelaide to Perth via the Nullabor.

Oh yeah, one more thing: make sure you drive on the left ;). There'll be plenty of signs to remind you though.

Well, basically these are a few major basics to an Aussie adventure.

Stay tuned for more highlights of the magical land of Oz. Here are a few preview pictures, just to keep you interested.

Lots of love,

Tweenie xo

The West: Fertility and Beauty

Wangdue

As you enter this town you will most probably be told the following story: About a decade ago a Japanese childless couple came to this place. Desperate for the love of a child of their own they decided to visit the town’s temple. This temple was locally known for its resident: ‘The Divine Madman’ and his fertile horn. The story naturally ends with the happy news that the couple bared a child about a year later and named it after the ‘Divine Madman’. Keeping this in mind, you’ll find more understanding for the uncountable male genitals drawn on all the houses, carved in wood and made into souvenirs.

The town of Wangdue evolves for the majority around this temple; it’s main attraction. But even those who don’t have any fertility issues can pass an animated day here.

First of all there is the walk towards the temple that leads you through the village and through the fields. Here the locals cultivate numerous kinds of rice resulting into a beautiful colour pallet. When you arrive by the temple of fertility you can rest under a magnificent tree looking down onto the valley (yes, this temple is also built on a small hill). Inside the temple you can see the different relics related to the “Divine Madman” and if needed or wanted you can also stroke his magic horn. I do warn you, this is not a temple for the prude.

Secondly, Wangdue has an archery training area. If you are lucky you might see a match of this typical Bhutanese heritage. It is very impressive how the competitors shoot their arrow from a distance of over 100m. When a shooter scores his teammates do a little dance a sing a little song, all in good fun. It may take a while to actually understand the rules of the game, but it’s a pleasure just watch al the smiles and laughter during a friendly battle.

In September Wangdue has their Wangdue Phodrang Tshechue (festival) with complementary carnival. Unlike in other towns this festival does not take place in the Dzong, due to its destruction by fire in 2012. Until they have a new Dzong the festivals are held on the training fields of the Bhutanese army, where they construct a carnival/marketplace.

Punakha

Not far from Wangdue is the village of Punakha with its crown jewel. It lies right on the confluence of a male and female river, which flow together into one unity, apparently creating a create place for the adventurous souls willing to risk a rafting trip. Honestly these are the only really mentionable things to do here. But the Dzong is so beautiful that I thought it deserved it’s own chapter.

As Punakha used to be the countries capital, their Dzong has been created accordingly. The current king and queen even had there wedding here. In the Buddhist world the temple is famous for its “self-made” statue of Avalokiteśvara, the boddhisivata of compassion. However you can only see the actual statue when it is revealed on the annual festival in February/March.

Stay tuned for a whole new destination..

Lots of love,

Tweenie xo

Guess who’s back…

 After suffering a severe writers block, I’m back, with more motivation and new ideals.  In the light of the dramatic events of the past few days, my questions started racing around in my head. What am I doing to change this world, which is gradually evolving into one big war zone? My eventual answer: elevate the consciousness. 

Now, I don’t pretend to be a meditation Guru, or some kind of undiscovered reincarnation of an Enlightened one.  No. But I did decide that my passion for travel can be to more use than just advising people on good places to holiday. What if I could transfer tolerance and understanding towards the cultures of others? What if I could encourage people to love each other for their differences and not hate them for it?

Anyway, that’s all very idealistic! I will start with countries with cultures that are a lot more accessible and slowly move towards cultures which our “superior” western minds have more trouble understanding. 

Now let’s get this show on the road. I am proud to present to you the post we’ve all been waiting for (we’ll at least I have): Bhutan, The West. Enjoy!

Don’t hesitate to contact me in case you have any questions or concerns, or if you simply want to help change this world for the better.

Lots of love,

Tweenie xo

Thimphu: the capital of all capitals

Being Bhutan’s major city, there is a lot more movement going on, and naturally there are more sights to see. When we were there we were lucky enough to join one of the greatest festivals in Bhutan at the Tashichho Dzong. As I mentioned before, these festivities are an amazing experience. Days filled with coloured clothing, music, dancing and laughter. Young and old, high abbots and woodworkers all come together to enjoy the stories of their history translated in expressive movements and songs.

Like every respectable capital city, Thimphu has a few universities. But the one that captured my attention the most was the Tango University. A little while outside the centre, on top of another hill, monks study Buddhism. Once again there is some karma building involved when visiting this little campus, as it is quite a climb.

Recently the monks have renewed the path and added signs with parts of the Dharmasala in English, which make the walk very enjoyable. An inspiring talk with one of the students or teachers will give you a little insight into this vast religion and will give you enough material to think about for the hike downhill.

One last thing you cannot miss on your trip to the capital is the Buddha Dordenma; the Giant Golden Buddha. On top of another hill, this time accessible by car, sits a serenely smiling Buddha gleaming in the sunlight. When we were in Thimphu (about a year ago), they were still working hard to put the finishing touches tot he surroundings. But apart from the obvious signs of construction, there is a great view of the valley of Thimphu.

As you leave the capital you will most probably make a stop-over at the Dochhu La Pass. On this pass there are three must-sees.

First of all, the queen placed 108 stupa's here in a spiral as a memorial for the bloody battle that took place there. Then there is also a temple a little further with incredible artwork depicting Gautama Buddha's life with beautiful colours and details.

And if you're dubble lucky you'll see the third sight: the view. If it isn't too cloudy you'll be able to spot the tips of the Himalayas in the distance. I say double lucky because we past the pass twice and never saw Mount Everest. The first time it was cloudy where we where standing, and the second time the clouds hung over the mountains. So, good luck and you should in any case give it a try.

Stay tuned for more Bhutanese adventures...

Tweenie xo