Addis Ababa My 'Jewel of Africa' is Ethiopia, Harold. Now you have had the merest of tastes, to return to discover its unique delights is worth dreaming and then ensuring the dream comes true.
Addis Ababa Great to hear from you again Dave! I heard a lot of good things about other places in Ethiopia outside of Addis. And now I have an Ethiopian friend here in Canada so I’d be more confident if I ever get the chance to go back!
This was three years ago, right? You made this trip three years ago if I understand it right. We were in Ethiopia in 2005 and traveled for two weeks. It was before we joined Travelblog but we have written about it. We didn't need a guide then and I am sure you would have made it without one as well. Today I wouldn't travel at all in that country though. It is way too dangerous as there is a war going on. /Ake
This was three years ago, right? Yes it was three years ago. It was my first time to be in a country where I was one of the very few tourists that I could see so it was intimidating because I stood out so much.
I'm here because I was meant to be here now. You are one of the most positive people I know Harold. We had only one day in Sydney together, but from that, it is what I know. Exciting you felt that you were being led to Canada. Everything that follows is the culmination of that dream/theme. Then there was a curve ball thrown called COVID-19. In many ways in the isolation and cold of Winnipeg may be the safest place for you to presently be. Cheers & best wishes from your friend in Oz.
Thanks Dave! Yes despite the isolation I think I'm in the best case scenario right now. Having all this space and not needing to work. But I really hope this ends soon because it's hard to stay positive in this situation for a long time when the world seems to be falling apart.Take care!
Life has really gotten tough for you... with the cold, the isolation, and the virus!. I pray that you will get through this...Spring is coming soon and I hope that life gets back to the new normal by 1 June so that we can see family again. I would love to see my daughter who lives in Connecticut and is just recovering from Covid-19.
Philippines looks lovely It looks lovely. I really have to go to Philippines sometimes. Good luck in Canada. Canada is actually high on our wishlist for summer vacation 2020. /Ake
To be leaving Leaving family, friends, career. Leaving the nest. Emigrating from tropical to cold. You shed many tears but your mind had been made up. What better place to step out than in Canada, I hear. Our son left for Canada at age 21 and had incredible highs and incredible lows that one can expect when stepping out alone. That was 13 years ago. Canada has been good to him. In fact career wise I believe he has more opportunity in Canada than Australia and support his application for permanent residency. Having met you Harold and shared your enthusiasm for life, I can see a bright light at the end of the path you have chosen to follow. Life was never meant to be easy but it is what you make of it that is the adventure. May yours be the fulfilment of your dreams.
Thanks Dave! Reassuring to hear your son is doing well here! I came here much later but I hope things turn out well. I probably won't be traveling abroad anytime soon. Good thing I have a backlog of 11 countries in the past two years I haven't written yet about. Cheers!
Embrace the opportunity... I totally understand your fear, but with time, I'm sure your sense of adventure will kick in. I've moved countries a few times with my family and then solo for work and life, and the packing and red tape for bank accounts and insurances etc is never fun - but that only lasts for a short period... and then the world is your oyster :) Best wishes for the move.
I've always meant to save money, buy cars, properties, raise a family, etc. But the world is too big and beautiful, and it calls me to explore! Until then, the usual go-to-work-pay-bills-then-die type of life will have to wait. Follow me on Instagram @HaroldBernal... full info
Dancing Dave
David Hooper
Addis Ababa
My 'Jewel of Africa' is Ethiopia, Harold. Now you have had the merest of tastes, to return to discover its unique delights is worth dreaming and then ensuring the dream comes true.