In case you were wondering...

The University of Otago is the southernmost university in the world with a greater population of Europeans than New Zealanders... more importantly, the number of sheep in the Otago region outnumber people by over 6 million.  Who doesn't like having more wool sweaters than people in the middle of winter?!

Life in the dead of winter

My flatmate Ryan and I have slowly been making our way to the edge of the city as walking is currently our only form of transportation.  It may be the dead of winter in New Zealand, but the wildlife seems to think otherwise.  The sun never rises too far above the horizon and begins to set in the early afternoon, however life around the city thrives on every ounce of sunlight it can get.  I can't wait to keep exploring deeper into the untamed countryside as I work my way outside of the city limits.

breaking in the new shoes

Today I was able to get a feel for my surroundings and explore the alluring town of Dunedin.  It was fairly chilly this morning but the sun came out and warmed things up.  There is a farmer's market with local foods and culture about 10 minutes walking distance from our flat, and tonight my flatmate Ryan and I will be hosting a dinner party for our new friends we've made.  Let the festivities begin!

Jet Lag Part 2

After over 24 hours of traveling, we made it to Dunedin New Zealand.  I have a beautiful view of the city in my flat, however insulation was an after thought for the builders.  The low temperature today was around -3C, however the winters here don't compare to the cold north.  I learned a few important things today:  walk on the left side of the path or you will run into everyone (because they drive on the left side of the road), the door handles are low enough for a hobbit to open, taxi drivers and waitresses do not accept tips and they will laugh at you if you try to bring your plate up when you're finished and the sun starts to set after 3pm.  Also, everyone is friendly and I've never felt more safe walking around a city!  Now it's time to get some sleep and adjust to whatever time zone change I'm currently experiencing.  I'll send more updates soon when my mind has adjusted!

This one's for Muir

We made the best of our west coast pit stop.  We followed the fog and it followed us.  I trotted the path of my inspiration John Muir and finally saw the great redwoods and sequoias.  The adventure has only begun and the friendships will continue to be made.  Next stop New Zealand!

The Golden Gate of Opportunity

Today our goal was to see the entire city in one day and we did just that.  After walking the length of Golden Gate Park, I rode the full perimeter of San Francisco by bike, from the good parts to the bad, up the steepest streets and down the fastest slopes and at the end of the day became close friends with some of the locals.  Thank you for everything Karl and Jan!

Jet Lag Part 1

The first day of flying is over, time to explore beautiful San Francisco

First day of travels

Buffalo to Boston to San Fran, are we there yet?

A Bon Voyage from the family as I prepare for my travels