A Map For Saturday, has easily become one of my favorite documentaries. It's inspirational to see someone in their mid-twenties leave a good job, and put it all on the line for a project that they believe in. It's certainly admirable and courageous, as it's not something the average person can do.
The film is incredibly touching and personal, as you witness a complete transformation of one's character through a year of travel. At the end of the film, we see an entirely different person than the one who started the journey back in New York City.
The essence of travel is wonderfully captured, as it offers insight into the mindset of fellow travelers and a window into the rest of the world. The film also offers a unique perspective of what it was like to be an American traveling during the George Bush era. Highly recommended.
What I realized—not just about myself but about the world—is that time and money are commodities with an inverse relationship; to get one you need to spend the other. And I realized, for me, time is a more valuable commodity than money... our society is built on the premise we should want more money so we can have more things, even if we don’t really have the free time to use those things.--Brook Silva-Braga
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Feb
10
Don't Get Duffilled
0
"Travel is glamorous only in retrospect."--Paul Theroux
This quote rings true, as we often tend to forget about all the frustrations and loneliness of solo travel, after the fact.
More so in Paul Theroux's epic four month journey in 1975 by train through Europe, the Middle Easy, India, Asia and back through Russia. I can't even begin to fathom the amount of patience and strength it takes to embark on such a trip; especially during the mid-seventies. Theroux, extremely observant in his surroundings and those he encounters on a day to day basis, make this book. Some of the people he meets along the way you can't make up if you tried.
For me, this book has painted a picture of a world that I never knew existed.
This quote rings true, as we often tend to forget about all the frustrations and loneliness of solo travel, after the fact.
More so in Paul Theroux's epic four month journey in 1975 by train through Europe, the Middle Easy, India, Asia and back through Russia. I can't even begin to fathom the amount of patience and strength it takes to embark on such a trip; especially during the mid-seventies. Theroux, extremely observant in his surroundings and those he encounters on a day to day basis, make this book. Some of the people he meets along the way you can't make up if you tried.
For me, this book has painted a picture of a world that I never knew existed.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Jan
15
A Renewed Appreciation
0
After traveling abroad, I found myself appreciating certain liberties that can be sometimes taken for granted in America, after experiencing first hand what it's like to have the smaller things in life removed from the equation.
Brazil | Safety
You can't walk around Rio De Janeiro by yourself after sundown, without worrying about a group of kids mugging you at knife point. It felt comforting to return home and be able to walk around Manhattan and Jersey City freely, after dark.
Japan | Diversity
America is a melting pot, and once I was in Japan, I quickly realized how much I took our diversity for granted.
New Zealand | Convenience
It's not fun when you go to bed hungry after returning home from a hike because the town shuts down at 5:00pm
Australia | Food
Slices of pizza do not exist in Australia, only smaller personal pies. Good sushi is even harder to find.
Thailand | Free Speech
When I was traveling in Thailand, an Australian writer was sentenced to three years in a Thai prison for criticizing the Monarchy, in a self-published book, that barely anyone read.
Brazil | Safety
You can't walk around Rio De Janeiro by yourself after sundown, without worrying about a group of kids mugging you at knife point. It felt comforting to return home and be able to walk around Manhattan and Jersey City freely, after dark.
Japan | Diversity
America is a melting pot, and once I was in Japan, I quickly realized how much I took our diversity for granted.
New Zealand | Convenience
It's not fun when you go to bed hungry after returning home from a hike because the town shuts down at 5:00pm
Australia | Food
Slices of pizza do not exist in Australia, only smaller personal pies. Good sushi is even harder to find.
Thailand | Free Speech
When I was traveling in Thailand, an Australian writer was sentenced to three years in a Thai prison for criticizing the Monarchy, in a self-published book, that barely anyone read.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Jan
10
2010 and beyond.
0
The harsh reality of being unemployed has settled in. I need a full time job so I can support myself again. The job hunt in this economy can be a bit depressing, extremely frustrating, and very discouraging. I feel a sense of guilt, an overbearing burden, when I pursue an activity that isn't job related now.
Last year, I was much more selective in my job search and wasn't as aggressive as I should be. I took the year off to freelance and travel, as I tried to steer my career in the direction that I felt it should go in. Now, it's time to swallow my pride and apply for jobs that are underpaid, outside my industry, and jobs that I am overqualified for. The economy is still grim and the reality of the situation is it's an employer's market.
I think last year was a reaction to the few years I spent simultaneously working full time, producing a film, and freelancing. It burnt me out. Upon falling off the treadmill known as the rat race, travel was my way of putting a positive spin on a negative situation. Life is wonderful, and should be enjoyed, when you have the ability to do so. Thankfully, freelancing throughout last year has allowed me to close any resume gaps that most people would have after a year off, and after a few interviews, it hasn't been a problem.
For most, It's hard to fathom the realities of unemployment, when gainfully employed. Some make finding a job in this economy seem like a cake walk. On the other hand, it's ironic that so many people wish they could get laid off and be in my position, as it's really not that fun (well, last year was fun) when you are clawing to get back into the industry you were kicked out of.
I am now living on my friend Chase's couch in Brooklyn for the next month. I thought it'd be a great environment to inspire me to get back into the swing of things. Part of me feels detached from the corporate world, a few steps behind. I feel like my worldview has changed drastically and I am figuring out how to best deal with it.
Living on a couch is great. A backpack full of clothes, a laptop, a few books, my ipod, and my magic bullet blender are all I really need. Traveling has taught me to live simply. At this point, too many possessions give me anxiety. I prefer a minimalist environment these days.
I've cut back my alcohol consumption, eating out, and a few hobbies. It's become clear what I value most; travel and new experiences. In order to continue my travels, I need to cut back frivolous and unnecessary spending. This means living below my means rather above them, despite having the money to afford said items. It's not broke, it's mindful spending. This will allow me to still take smaller trips, such as Ireland for St. Patricks day.
When I envision the next couple years, I see a new film on the horizon and more long term travel after the film is complete. I'm also interested in eventually going back to school; learning a discipline that isn't a hobby. I now understand the importance of having multiple income streams; not putting all my eggs in one basket. Unfortunately, most learn this lesson only after they've been laid off.
In regards to long term travel, I'd like to travel through Africa with a Panasonic HVX camera and find a human interest story that I can turn into a documentary. After a year of aimless travel, I'd like to marry my passions and produce a worthwhile project.
Of course, extended time off requires financial independence, which means working a full time for the next few years while I buckle down and save money.
Now...I just need to find a job!
Last year, I was much more selective in my job search and wasn't as aggressive as I should be. I took the year off to freelance and travel, as I tried to steer my career in the direction that I felt it should go in. Now, it's time to swallow my pride and apply for jobs that are underpaid, outside my industry, and jobs that I am overqualified for. The economy is still grim and the reality of the situation is it's an employer's market.
I think last year was a reaction to the few years I spent simultaneously working full time, producing a film, and freelancing. It burnt me out. Upon falling off the treadmill known as the rat race, travel was my way of putting a positive spin on a negative situation. Life is wonderful, and should be enjoyed, when you have the ability to do so. Thankfully, freelancing throughout last year has allowed me to close any resume gaps that most people would have after a year off, and after a few interviews, it hasn't been a problem.
For most, It's hard to fathom the realities of unemployment, when gainfully employed. Some make finding a job in this economy seem like a cake walk. On the other hand, it's ironic that so many people wish they could get laid off and be in my position, as it's really not that fun (well, last year was fun) when you are clawing to get back into the industry you were kicked out of.
I am now living on my friend Chase's couch in Brooklyn for the next month. I thought it'd be a great environment to inspire me to get back into the swing of things. Part of me feels detached from the corporate world, a few steps behind. I feel like my worldview has changed drastically and I am figuring out how to best deal with it.
Living on a couch is great. A backpack full of clothes, a laptop, a few books, my ipod, and my magic bullet blender are all I really need. Traveling has taught me to live simply. At this point, too many possessions give me anxiety. I prefer a minimalist environment these days.
I've cut back my alcohol consumption, eating out, and a few hobbies. It's become clear what I value most; travel and new experiences. In order to continue my travels, I need to cut back frivolous and unnecessary spending. This means living below my means rather above them, despite having the money to afford said items. It's not broke, it's mindful spending. This will allow me to still take smaller trips, such as Ireland for St. Patricks day.
When I envision the next couple years, I see a new film on the horizon and more long term travel after the film is complete. I'm also interested in eventually going back to school; learning a discipline that isn't a hobby. I now understand the importance of having multiple income streams; not putting all my eggs in one basket. Unfortunately, most learn this lesson only after they've been laid off.
In regards to long term travel, I'd like to travel through Africa with a Panasonic HVX camera and find a human interest story that I can turn into a documentary. After a year of aimless travel, I'd like to marry my passions and produce a worthwhile project.
Of course, extended time off requires financial independence, which means working a full time for the next few years while I buckle down and save money.
Now...I just need to find a job!
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