#tabithathecat23

The holiday destination in Bali, Indonesia is an exotic destination spoken about over the years. Many travellers talk about travelling to places like Bali, Indonesia, Vietnam and Thailand. This was my first time with the assistance of a tour guide plus travelling with other fellow backpackers from around the world. I packed quite light, only bringing two backpacks to bring onboard the flight.

Many notable highlights and experiences including cool music and DJ sets at Mexicana, my first ever experience in snorkeling off Gili Island, a 1400M elevated climb and hike up Mt Batur, a second final attempt in learning how to surf, which didn’t go down too well and multiple karaoke sessions which was great fun with the group.

The guided tour was fantastic overall, I couldn’t find any real faults. Maybe one minor thing is to be reminded of when and where we will be meeting as the trip progresses. I guess the tour operator didn’t want to repeat himself or be like a father to us. The experience was unique and I got to explore some unfamiliar places of Bali which can be challenging to plan and find without the help of a tour. The tour guide has unique relationships with business owners and vendors as this helps to create the whole tour experience as a traveller but you’re also supporting the local economy in itself.

Another trip to Japan but this time adding on the very first experience to the Phillipines. I didn’t know what to expect but this time it was a different one where we were staying in a neighbourhood friendly area in Asakusa within Tokyo to start off with. The trip overall felt localised and we opted to make it that way for an enjoyable experience. Overall it was smooth, flexible and no problems at all. There are too many highlights to mention. Some notable highlights include:

Being invited to a surprise luncheon with Japanese locals in Hachiōji on a lazy, rainy Sunday afternoon where we spoke about our Japanese travelling experiences, Australia and what to expect when travelling there as well as random questions about the world. I found out that English teachers only get paid 200,000 yen per month as their standard salary, before incentives and other things are included. It was great to see how Japanese locals unwind and relax over a weekend in a group catch up.

The trip then moved to the Phillipines, we stayed in the city areas being in Manila, Kampanga and Makati. Unfortunately we did not go out to the popular beach resorts which everyone mentions, such as Palawan or Boracay. Nevertheless, they are busy cities with something to see for everyone. Lots of large shopping malls to help you stay cool from the hot weathered sun. Filipino cuisine consists of lots of meat dishes paired with rice which was delicious to start off with but I was really craving vegetables and a balanced diet by the end of the Philippines experience (I also caught the flu towards the end). We had no problems with the locals and managed to stay safe and sound despite hearing and seeing many bad stories of robberies and things being stolen. Noli, our designated driver and tour guide, managed to give us a very good experience travelling in his Grab taxi ride who we happily assisted along the way as you need a Grab to get around places.

Upon our return trip to Japan, the nature walk and train ride to Nikko was something definitely to do if you’re wanting to get out of Tokyo city life. The rich Autumn leaves, waterfalls, shrines and temples are all photo worthy and part of the experience. It’s a unique day trip out and about also not to mention the voluntary praying and embracing in Japanese spirituality.

It’s very hard to select a favourite and define what delicious Japanese food is, they were all very good including convenient store items. If I had to pick a favourite it would be the dry ramen noodles which cost just 800 yen located near Iriya station. The restaurant itself only seats 13 patrons. All orders are serviced through a vending ticket machine and a man in the middle who takes the ticket orders. Meals are not as expensive as people make it seem.

I was looking forward to these holidays as I knew very little of New Zealand despite going to Queenstown on a previous trip. Why not experience being a Kiwi by visiting two cities in Auckland and Wellington. Here were some of the highlights.

Federal Delicatessen was the first stop just before the tremendous sky views at Sky Tower. I personally think you need to dip it in the complimentary sauces combined, which consist of tomato relish, American mustard and the tabasco sauce for added punch. Mrs Higgins does make fresh tasting cookies. I had an obsession over cheese scones by the end of the trip in Wellington.

Viator provides quality small group tours which serves an independent traveller in myself. Both tour guides provided great inspiration to get back onto the road with their passion, positivity and strong enthusiasm being with people and helping people out with their travel experiences. David in Auckland being a Korean, who was proactive with his group photo shoots and charm. Marc who is an eccentric and funny Frenchman living in Wellington. Both had a good chunky sale as well.

What’s in store this year for yourself in the year 2025? Make an impact this year whatever it is you are working on. For me I have a bit of weight to shed given all the great food I’ve had over the festive season including a recent all you can eat Japanese BBQ with my brother and niece. The next day I went for a cycling session with my morning coffee and I felt spectacular with only half the level of guilt given the food binge. Not to mention getting back into training by upping the intensity and learning the new martial arts patterns for this year.

Last number of years I found the grounding, the foundations, captivating and focusing on the interests. Now it is about finding the craft and specialising in the craft!

I would describe this year as a significant impactful year on multiple levels in facing challenges head on whilst working within the system, discipline, continuity and understanding change.

Sceptics, the worries and talk are just temporary. The suffering and struggle are simply just part of the process. It’s not about fault and blame. I am at peace and remain optimistic.

The results are rewarding, altruistic and impactful. Each individual to their own, not everyone will understand or through genuine interest. Being versatile and optimistic serves a place here.

I can sit comfortably and have a coffee by myself or with any individual and engage in fruitful conversations. 

It’s been busy on my end with training, research, reflecting and preparing for my finals exam which has been challenging, rewarding and fun. I learnt a lot and during my day dreaming periods I thought about a topic of interest to write about which is often overlooked and underappreciated. 

This month’s topic in Art which I had very little understanding when it came to the topic. For a long time, I was told that Art isn’t beneficial because it doesn’t land a job or an income. I guess when you’re a student you are advised by elders who are simply coming from a good place of familiarity. I sat on this assumption without exploring until recently, where the appreciation of art does have its place in society where I started looking at how it can heal suffering individuals on multiple levels. It assists the individual by opening their mind and embracing positive change.

Individuals may be suffering from mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, trauma and other related illnesses. The practice of art has been effective in the healthcare setting whether this may be prescribed therapy or even something simple like activities such as drawing, writing, painting, music and singing are some just to name a few. The engagement in mindfulness activities is therapeutic which can be done in the comfort of your own home ideally somewhere quiet or in nature such as a garden. Alternatively these activities along with others can be done in community settings whether it's your local library, an individual or group class or even a secluded retreat. It’s a low cost solution which has proven to be effective in the recovery stage which has stood the test of time. 

The role of art can be the start of something inspirational for all living this busy chaotic world.

More information can be found in the below link: