Christian Perez's Travel Journal

Abel Tasman is my buddy, Thu May 25, 2006

I am north, but not North (as in North Island.) Nelson today, Motueka yesterday. I feel better, like I'm starting to surface after holding my breath underwater for too long--the further up the world I go... I ventured up to Abel Tasman National Park and spent 6 hours on the famous coastal track. I decided against a multi-day hike--rain, cloud, and cold made beach-walking seem silly--but I took a water taxi out to Bark Bay and walked south back to my car. It was nice, but I wasn't moved to tears. The scenery is probably better appreciated from a kayak, which would account for the popularity of kayak companies here (at least 5.) I think I'll try the Queen Charlotte, too, if the weather ever clears up.

Nick and Nicola--very nice English from England, Reading (I think) to be precise. We walked together on the track and I stayed at another hostel at their recommendation. I forgot my camera, so they took pictures for me. Maybe there will be new pics to look at! The first ones in weeks. Had a great time at the smaller hostel, flirting with a Japanese girl named Mami. Small, cute, typically Japanese expressions and interjections ("US A OK")... Will you marry me? I ask her. Not on the first date, she says. What about tomorrow? I think I'm going to learn Japanese.

Money, time--the problem is universal, maybe even metaphysical. I need more of both, the question is when do I need it? I feel now is better than later, so I'm going back to Blenheim to work on the vineyard. I'm told I can make $300 a week after taxes and expenses, more if I'm a hard worker. This is all because of Ben. Since he's coming, I'll need more money to keep travelling with him. Otherwise, I would just hideaway on farms until it was time to go. Not that I'm complaining; I can't wait for him to show up.

Smaller hostels from now on. Larger crowds make me shrink, but I open up to fill empty spaces when people are fewer. At least I've learned that much about myself. So Blenheim is ok, because its tiny and boring and I will be large and in charge :)