Description
This time, we’re setting sail for New Zealand! It’s a chance to travel by van, meet some truly colorful characters, and deal with a whole series of unexpected twists!
Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.
Transcription
Welcome to the fifth season of the Kikyo Wings podcast. This time we're setting sail for New Zealand. It's a chance to travel by van, meet some truly colorful characters and deal with a whole series of unexpected twists. Enjoy the episode and the season.
Chapter 1.
Easy as that. A new adventure begins in Aotearoa, the land of the long white cloud in Maori. More commonly known... as New Zealand, with an area just under 270,000 square kilometers and fewer than 5 million people. The country feels vast enough to get lost in and make some real discoveries. My excitement grows at the simple thought of diving back into van life and exploring the wilderness. A wave of nostalgia hit me, bringing back memories of my time in Australia in 2013. I can see myself now, covering thousands of kilometers in search of hidden gems, breathtaking landscapes and secret spots. A shiver runs down my spine. I'm ready, more than ready to get back out there. And I have to say, New Zealand has welcomed me with open arms. I'm amazed at how simple everything is. Opening a bank account, getting a phone number, even finding a van. I managed all of it in just three days. I finally found the ride of my dreams. I mean, it's not exactly a beauty, the bodywork is scratched and dented, but technically speaking, aside from a minor O league. It's got plenty of heart under the hood. The deal was done at a very reasonable price. Just 2400 dollars, about 1300 euros back in late August 2018. Carried by this momentum of hope and simplicity, I decided to apply for the first thing I saw. There was an ad for strawberry pickers starting around September 15, exactly one day after my birthday. The timing was perfect, just another day or two in the hostel before I could head out in my van and start exploring. The response came to the very next day, and it was positive. I already had a job lined up. Felt like everything was working out almost too easily. I had no idea things were about to get a lot more complicated. But in that moment, I felt completely in my element. New Zealand reminds me of Australia in the way it functions, but with an even simpler system for buying cars. What more could I ask for? I wanted to celebrate my victory. But aside from a few word exchange with my roommates, I realized I was slightly out of sync with the other travelers in the hostel. Most of them are young, very young, somewhere between 18 and 21. I listened to their conversation and while I recognized some of their fears from when I started traveling, I find it hard to connect with them.
You're almost 30? How come you're still traveling?
I knew right then I wasn't going to make any friends here. I eventually met a guy in my dorm who was also nearing 30. Camilo is Latino and has been living in Oakland for a few months. He's been in and out of the country on tourist visas, working under the table. Originally a sports journalist, the Argentinean left his country to travel, but also to find work that actually paid.
My salary wasn't enough to leave home. I was working like a dog and hurting peanuts.
He told me over a meal of instant noodle, the first of a very long series for me, we exchanged numbers and promises to stay in touch and help each other out along the way. Happy with this first real human connection, I decided to go looking for something a bit more... carnal. I hopped on Tinder, swiped right a few times and quickly matched with Mala, an Indian woman living in Auckland. The terms were clear and simple, a one night stand. With only two days before my departure, it was exactly what I was looking for. We agreed to meet at 12.30 am, at her place, just a few streets from my hostel, once she finished her after work drinks. As the time approached, I headed out, still messaging her.
I'll come down to get you, but act like I don't know you. Just follow me from a distance.
She wrote. Great, another crazy one. I fought with a bit of apprehension as I arrived at her building. The door opened and a slight, somewhat tipsy woman appeared. She didn't even say hello, she just walked past me into the lobby. We got into the elevator with another couple but didn't say a word. This was turning into a very strange encounter. Once we stepped out of that cage of silence, she pointed to a door on the right, a jester for me to open it. I went inside and she joined me a few seconds later.
Let's go to my room.
Okay. I replied a bit timidly. I sat on her bed and gave her a smirk. If you're that ashamed of me, I mean, I could have just stayed home, you know?
No, no, no, not at all.
She stayed waving her arms.
I'm sorry, I didn't mean to give you that impression. I just finished drinking with my co-workers and a lot of them live in this building. I just don't want them seeing me with, you know, the office gossip and all that.
Yeah, yeah, I get it.
Now. Let's get down to business,
she said, climbing onto me. No complaints here, I replied, pulling her into a kiss. After our session, Mala held me close and thanked me for coming over.
Thanks, I really need it to clear my head,
she whispered, huddling against me. What's wrong?
My family is putting so much pressure on me right now, and I'm about to disappoint them in a big way.
What do you mean?
I'm supposed to get married in a few months in India, but I don't really want to.
Oh, okay. I said, not yet realizing the gravity of the situation. What have I got myself into this time? I thought bitterly. Did you ever want this wedding? I asked. Mala made a face and rolled her eyes, almost in defeat, as if realizing I had seen right through it. I mean, it was so obvious I had hit the bull's eye. It's an arranged marriage?
Yes, but I don't love him. And I don't want to get married just for interest. The Indian of our two families would be good for business, but I don't care about that.
Since arriving in New Zealand, Malah had discovered a different world. The stereotyped life that promised she would marry quickly, have children and stay at home was over. She rejected that path with every fiber of her being. Since being here, she had finished her studies and found a good job at an import-export firm. She was free to do what she wanted, see who she wanted, without answering to anyone or fearing her family's reaction. Our meeting wasn't as random as it seemed. Mala probably did want to get married someday. But not like this. Not under this condition. After talking for hours, I eventually left her apartment and headed back to the hostel. Tomorrow, the final stage. A little road trip before the serious work begins.
Description
This time, we’re setting sail for New Zealand! It’s a chance to travel by van, meet some truly colorful characters, and deal with a whole series of unexpected twists!
Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.
Transcription
Welcome to the fifth season of the Kikyo Wings podcast. This time we're setting sail for New Zealand. It's a chance to travel by van, meet some truly colorful characters and deal with a whole series of unexpected twists. Enjoy the episode and the season.
Chapter 1.
Easy as that. A new adventure begins in Aotearoa, the land of the long white cloud in Maori. More commonly known... as New Zealand, with an area just under 270,000 square kilometers and fewer than 5 million people. The country feels vast enough to get lost in and make some real discoveries. My excitement grows at the simple thought of diving back into van life and exploring the wilderness. A wave of nostalgia hit me, bringing back memories of my time in Australia in 2013. I can see myself now, covering thousands of kilometers in search of hidden gems, breathtaking landscapes and secret spots. A shiver runs down my spine. I'm ready, more than ready to get back out there. And I have to say, New Zealand has welcomed me with open arms. I'm amazed at how simple everything is. Opening a bank account, getting a phone number, even finding a van. I managed all of it in just three days. I finally found the ride of my dreams. I mean, it's not exactly a beauty, the bodywork is scratched and dented, but technically speaking, aside from a minor O league. It's got plenty of heart under the hood. The deal was done at a very reasonable price. Just 2400 dollars, about 1300 euros back in late August 2018. Carried by this momentum of hope and simplicity, I decided to apply for the first thing I saw. There was an ad for strawberry pickers starting around September 15, exactly one day after my birthday. The timing was perfect, just another day or two in the hostel before I could head out in my van and start exploring. The response came to the very next day, and it was positive. I already had a job lined up. Felt like everything was working out almost too easily. I had no idea things were about to get a lot more complicated. But in that moment, I felt completely in my element. New Zealand reminds me of Australia in the way it functions, but with an even simpler system for buying cars. What more could I ask for? I wanted to celebrate my victory. But aside from a few word exchange with my roommates, I realized I was slightly out of sync with the other travelers in the hostel. Most of them are young, very young, somewhere between 18 and 21. I listened to their conversation and while I recognized some of their fears from when I started traveling, I find it hard to connect with them.
You're almost 30? How come you're still traveling?
I knew right then I wasn't going to make any friends here. I eventually met a guy in my dorm who was also nearing 30. Camilo is Latino and has been living in Oakland for a few months. He's been in and out of the country on tourist visas, working under the table. Originally a sports journalist, the Argentinean left his country to travel, but also to find work that actually paid.
My salary wasn't enough to leave home. I was working like a dog and hurting peanuts.
He told me over a meal of instant noodle, the first of a very long series for me, we exchanged numbers and promises to stay in touch and help each other out along the way. Happy with this first real human connection, I decided to go looking for something a bit more... carnal. I hopped on Tinder, swiped right a few times and quickly matched with Mala, an Indian woman living in Auckland. The terms were clear and simple, a one night stand. With only two days before my departure, it was exactly what I was looking for. We agreed to meet at 12.30 am, at her place, just a few streets from my hostel, once she finished her after work drinks. As the time approached, I headed out, still messaging her.
I'll come down to get you, but act like I don't know you. Just follow me from a distance.
She wrote. Great, another crazy one. I fought with a bit of apprehension as I arrived at her building. The door opened and a slight, somewhat tipsy woman appeared. She didn't even say hello, she just walked past me into the lobby. We got into the elevator with another couple but didn't say a word. This was turning into a very strange encounter. Once we stepped out of that cage of silence, she pointed to a door on the right, a jester for me to open it. I went inside and she joined me a few seconds later.
Let's go to my room.
Okay. I replied a bit timidly. I sat on her bed and gave her a smirk. If you're that ashamed of me, I mean, I could have just stayed home, you know?
No, no, no, not at all.
She stayed waving her arms.
I'm sorry, I didn't mean to give you that impression. I just finished drinking with my co-workers and a lot of them live in this building. I just don't want them seeing me with, you know, the office gossip and all that.
Yeah, yeah, I get it.
Now. Let's get down to business,
she said, climbing onto me. No complaints here, I replied, pulling her into a kiss. After our session, Mala held me close and thanked me for coming over.
Thanks, I really need it to clear my head,
she whispered, huddling against me. What's wrong?
My family is putting so much pressure on me right now, and I'm about to disappoint them in a big way.
What do you mean?
I'm supposed to get married in a few months in India, but I don't really want to.
Oh, okay. I said, not yet realizing the gravity of the situation. What have I got myself into this time? I thought bitterly. Did you ever want this wedding? I asked. Mala made a face and rolled her eyes, almost in defeat, as if realizing I had seen right through it. I mean, it was so obvious I had hit the bull's eye. It's an arranged marriage?
Yes, but I don't love him. And I don't want to get married just for interest. The Indian of our two families would be good for business, but I don't care about that.
Since arriving in New Zealand, Malah had discovered a different world. The stereotyped life that promised she would marry quickly, have children and stay at home was over. She rejected that path with every fiber of her being. Since being here, she had finished her studies and found a good job at an import-export firm. She was free to do what she wanted, see who she wanted, without answering to anyone or fearing her family's reaction. Our meeting wasn't as random as it seemed. Mala probably did want to get married someday. But not like this. Not under this condition. After talking for hours, I eventually left her apartment and headed back to the hostel. Tomorrow, the final stage. A little road trip before the serious work begins.
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Description
This time, we’re setting sail for New Zealand! It’s a chance to travel by van, meet some truly colorful characters, and deal with a whole series of unexpected twists!
Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.
Transcription
Welcome to the fifth season of the Kikyo Wings podcast. This time we're setting sail for New Zealand. It's a chance to travel by van, meet some truly colorful characters and deal with a whole series of unexpected twists. Enjoy the episode and the season.
Chapter 1.
Easy as that. A new adventure begins in Aotearoa, the land of the long white cloud in Maori. More commonly known... as New Zealand, with an area just under 270,000 square kilometers and fewer than 5 million people. The country feels vast enough to get lost in and make some real discoveries. My excitement grows at the simple thought of diving back into van life and exploring the wilderness. A wave of nostalgia hit me, bringing back memories of my time in Australia in 2013. I can see myself now, covering thousands of kilometers in search of hidden gems, breathtaking landscapes and secret spots. A shiver runs down my spine. I'm ready, more than ready to get back out there. And I have to say, New Zealand has welcomed me with open arms. I'm amazed at how simple everything is. Opening a bank account, getting a phone number, even finding a van. I managed all of it in just three days. I finally found the ride of my dreams. I mean, it's not exactly a beauty, the bodywork is scratched and dented, but technically speaking, aside from a minor O league. It's got plenty of heart under the hood. The deal was done at a very reasonable price. Just 2400 dollars, about 1300 euros back in late August 2018. Carried by this momentum of hope and simplicity, I decided to apply for the first thing I saw. There was an ad for strawberry pickers starting around September 15, exactly one day after my birthday. The timing was perfect, just another day or two in the hostel before I could head out in my van and start exploring. The response came to the very next day, and it was positive. I already had a job lined up. Felt like everything was working out almost too easily. I had no idea things were about to get a lot more complicated. But in that moment, I felt completely in my element. New Zealand reminds me of Australia in the way it functions, but with an even simpler system for buying cars. What more could I ask for? I wanted to celebrate my victory. But aside from a few word exchange with my roommates, I realized I was slightly out of sync with the other travelers in the hostel. Most of them are young, very young, somewhere between 18 and 21. I listened to their conversation and while I recognized some of their fears from when I started traveling, I find it hard to connect with them.
You're almost 30? How come you're still traveling?
I knew right then I wasn't going to make any friends here. I eventually met a guy in my dorm who was also nearing 30. Camilo is Latino and has been living in Oakland for a few months. He's been in and out of the country on tourist visas, working under the table. Originally a sports journalist, the Argentinean left his country to travel, but also to find work that actually paid.
My salary wasn't enough to leave home. I was working like a dog and hurting peanuts.
He told me over a meal of instant noodle, the first of a very long series for me, we exchanged numbers and promises to stay in touch and help each other out along the way. Happy with this first real human connection, I decided to go looking for something a bit more... carnal. I hopped on Tinder, swiped right a few times and quickly matched with Mala, an Indian woman living in Auckland. The terms were clear and simple, a one night stand. With only two days before my departure, it was exactly what I was looking for. We agreed to meet at 12.30 am, at her place, just a few streets from my hostel, once she finished her after work drinks. As the time approached, I headed out, still messaging her.
I'll come down to get you, but act like I don't know you. Just follow me from a distance.
She wrote. Great, another crazy one. I fought with a bit of apprehension as I arrived at her building. The door opened and a slight, somewhat tipsy woman appeared. She didn't even say hello, she just walked past me into the lobby. We got into the elevator with another couple but didn't say a word. This was turning into a very strange encounter. Once we stepped out of that cage of silence, she pointed to a door on the right, a jester for me to open it. I went inside and she joined me a few seconds later.
Let's go to my room.
Okay. I replied a bit timidly. I sat on her bed and gave her a smirk. If you're that ashamed of me, I mean, I could have just stayed home, you know?
No, no, no, not at all.
She stayed waving her arms.
I'm sorry, I didn't mean to give you that impression. I just finished drinking with my co-workers and a lot of them live in this building. I just don't want them seeing me with, you know, the office gossip and all that.
Yeah, yeah, I get it.
Now. Let's get down to business,
she said, climbing onto me. No complaints here, I replied, pulling her into a kiss. After our session, Mala held me close and thanked me for coming over.
Thanks, I really need it to clear my head,
she whispered, huddling against me. What's wrong?
My family is putting so much pressure on me right now, and I'm about to disappoint them in a big way.
What do you mean?
I'm supposed to get married in a few months in India, but I don't really want to.
Oh, okay. I said, not yet realizing the gravity of the situation. What have I got myself into this time? I thought bitterly. Did you ever want this wedding? I asked. Mala made a face and rolled her eyes, almost in defeat, as if realizing I had seen right through it. I mean, it was so obvious I had hit the bull's eye. It's an arranged marriage?
Yes, but I don't love him. And I don't want to get married just for interest. The Indian of our two families would be good for business, but I don't care about that.
Since arriving in New Zealand, Malah had discovered a different world. The stereotyped life that promised she would marry quickly, have children and stay at home was over. She rejected that path with every fiber of her being. Since being here, she had finished her studies and found a good job at an import-export firm. She was free to do what she wanted, see who she wanted, without answering to anyone or fearing her family's reaction. Our meeting wasn't as random as it seemed. Mala probably did want to get married someday. But not like this. Not under this condition. After talking for hours, I eventually left her apartment and headed back to the hostel. Tomorrow, the final stage. A little road trip before the serious work begins.
Description
This time, we’re setting sail for New Zealand! It’s a chance to travel by van, meet some truly colorful characters, and deal with a whole series of unexpected twists!
Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.
Transcription
Welcome to the fifth season of the Kikyo Wings podcast. This time we're setting sail for New Zealand. It's a chance to travel by van, meet some truly colorful characters and deal with a whole series of unexpected twists. Enjoy the episode and the season.
Chapter 1.
Easy as that. A new adventure begins in Aotearoa, the land of the long white cloud in Maori. More commonly known... as New Zealand, with an area just under 270,000 square kilometers and fewer than 5 million people. The country feels vast enough to get lost in and make some real discoveries. My excitement grows at the simple thought of diving back into van life and exploring the wilderness. A wave of nostalgia hit me, bringing back memories of my time in Australia in 2013. I can see myself now, covering thousands of kilometers in search of hidden gems, breathtaking landscapes and secret spots. A shiver runs down my spine. I'm ready, more than ready to get back out there. And I have to say, New Zealand has welcomed me with open arms. I'm amazed at how simple everything is. Opening a bank account, getting a phone number, even finding a van. I managed all of it in just three days. I finally found the ride of my dreams. I mean, it's not exactly a beauty, the bodywork is scratched and dented, but technically speaking, aside from a minor O league. It's got plenty of heart under the hood. The deal was done at a very reasonable price. Just 2400 dollars, about 1300 euros back in late August 2018. Carried by this momentum of hope and simplicity, I decided to apply for the first thing I saw. There was an ad for strawberry pickers starting around September 15, exactly one day after my birthday. The timing was perfect, just another day or two in the hostel before I could head out in my van and start exploring. The response came to the very next day, and it was positive. I already had a job lined up. Felt like everything was working out almost too easily. I had no idea things were about to get a lot more complicated. But in that moment, I felt completely in my element. New Zealand reminds me of Australia in the way it functions, but with an even simpler system for buying cars. What more could I ask for? I wanted to celebrate my victory. But aside from a few word exchange with my roommates, I realized I was slightly out of sync with the other travelers in the hostel. Most of them are young, very young, somewhere between 18 and 21. I listened to their conversation and while I recognized some of their fears from when I started traveling, I find it hard to connect with them.
You're almost 30? How come you're still traveling?
I knew right then I wasn't going to make any friends here. I eventually met a guy in my dorm who was also nearing 30. Camilo is Latino and has been living in Oakland for a few months. He's been in and out of the country on tourist visas, working under the table. Originally a sports journalist, the Argentinean left his country to travel, but also to find work that actually paid.
My salary wasn't enough to leave home. I was working like a dog and hurting peanuts.
He told me over a meal of instant noodle, the first of a very long series for me, we exchanged numbers and promises to stay in touch and help each other out along the way. Happy with this first real human connection, I decided to go looking for something a bit more... carnal. I hopped on Tinder, swiped right a few times and quickly matched with Mala, an Indian woman living in Auckland. The terms were clear and simple, a one night stand. With only two days before my departure, it was exactly what I was looking for. We agreed to meet at 12.30 am, at her place, just a few streets from my hostel, once she finished her after work drinks. As the time approached, I headed out, still messaging her.
I'll come down to get you, but act like I don't know you. Just follow me from a distance.
She wrote. Great, another crazy one. I fought with a bit of apprehension as I arrived at her building. The door opened and a slight, somewhat tipsy woman appeared. She didn't even say hello, she just walked past me into the lobby. We got into the elevator with another couple but didn't say a word. This was turning into a very strange encounter. Once we stepped out of that cage of silence, she pointed to a door on the right, a jester for me to open it. I went inside and she joined me a few seconds later.
Let's go to my room.
Okay. I replied a bit timidly. I sat on her bed and gave her a smirk. If you're that ashamed of me, I mean, I could have just stayed home, you know?
No, no, no, not at all.
She stayed waving her arms.
I'm sorry, I didn't mean to give you that impression. I just finished drinking with my co-workers and a lot of them live in this building. I just don't want them seeing me with, you know, the office gossip and all that.
Yeah, yeah, I get it.
Now. Let's get down to business,
she said, climbing onto me. No complaints here, I replied, pulling her into a kiss. After our session, Mala held me close and thanked me for coming over.
Thanks, I really need it to clear my head,
she whispered, huddling against me. What's wrong?
My family is putting so much pressure on me right now, and I'm about to disappoint them in a big way.
What do you mean?
I'm supposed to get married in a few months in India, but I don't really want to.
Oh, okay. I said, not yet realizing the gravity of the situation. What have I got myself into this time? I thought bitterly. Did you ever want this wedding? I asked. Mala made a face and rolled her eyes, almost in defeat, as if realizing I had seen right through it. I mean, it was so obvious I had hit the bull's eye. It's an arranged marriage?
Yes, but I don't love him. And I don't want to get married just for interest. The Indian of our two families would be good for business, but I don't care about that.
Since arriving in New Zealand, Malah had discovered a different world. The stereotyped life that promised she would marry quickly, have children and stay at home was over. She rejected that path with every fiber of her being. Since being here, she had finished her studies and found a good job at an import-export firm. She was free to do what she wanted, see who she wanted, without answering to anyone or fearing her family's reaction. Our meeting wasn't as random as it seemed. Mala probably did want to get married someday. But not like this. Not under this condition. After talking for hours, I eventually left her apartment and headed back to the hostel. Tomorrow, the final stage. A little road trip before the serious work begins.
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