architecture Archives - Splinter's Paradise

Day 206: Last day, last outlook and the last night out

July 19, 2014

Today marked the final day of my world journey, which I planned to end with a visit to Hallgrímskirkja church and a night out in Reykjavik. I woke up around 11 am, still feeling groggy. Although I tried to get some work done on my laptop, fatigue got the better of me. Embracing the laid-back mood, I opted for a lazy day, relaxing and napping a bit more in the dorm. Around 3 or 4 pm, I finally emerged and headed to the kitchen for a drink. The smell of someone’s cooking lingered in the air, though it was a…

by Maarten

Canada

Day 198: The Biosphere and Mont-Royal

July 11, 2014

After yesterday’s failed attempt to visit the Biosphere, today I was determined to find the architectural building I had been looking for! I woke up around 10 a.m., enjoyed a lovely breakfast, and relaxed. We had to wait for the healthcare person before we could head out. Around 11:30 a.m., we left for Tim Hortons to get some wifi, as the connection at Gopal’s parents’ house had stopped working the day before due to an issue with the telephone line. Gopal, being the problem solver he is, had already called the company to schedule a fix. Today, Gopal had to…

by Maarten

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Canada

Day 195: A mix of Paris, London and America: Montreal

July 8, 2014

Today, I was set to arrive in Montreal, Canada, where I would stay with my friend Gopal. Around 5 am, we completed customs at the Canadian border. The customs officer didn’t ask to see any return tickets but instead posed a series of questions. She inquired about my reasons for visiting, whether I had friends here, if I was carrying money, how much, and if I had brought any souvenirs. After a brief chat, she seemed satisfied, and I was allowed to proceed without any issues. Back on the bus with everyone else, we continued the journey. I couldn’t help…

by Maarten

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Indonesia

Day 31: Bukittinggi unleashed

January 26, 2014

Today, I embarked on a journey to explore the vibrant and lush Sianok Canyon in Bukittinggi. Rising with the sun at 4:45 am, I embraced the promise of an exciting day in Bukittinggi. Swiftly changing into fresh attire, I fired up my laptop, connecting with a friend in Holland via a stable Skype connection. Our engaging 30-minute conversation left me invigorated, but soon after, an unexpected bout of illness struck, prompting frequent visits to the restroom. After a brief period of recovery, I opted to catch up on some much-needed rest. By 9 am, my appetite beckoned for breakfast…

by Maarten

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Indonesia

Day 30: Passing the equator, arrival in Bukittinggi

January 25, 2014

Yesterday, I departed from Lake Toba for a marathon 15-hour drive on the Trans-Sumatran Highway from Parapat to Bukittinggi. At around 11 pm, a minivan departed from the port town, carrying three other passengers. Anticipating a challenging journey, I was aware that traveling by road from Parapat was the only available option. The Trans-Sumatran Highway, leading from Parapat to Bukittinggi, might sound grand, but in reality, it’s far from being a typical highway. Its dimensions are more reminiscent of a Dutch bicycle path than a standard Western-country highway. It became immediately apparent that this road hasn’t seen maintenance in quite…

by Maarten

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Indonesia

Day 23: Activities in and around Banda Aceh

January 18, 2014

Where do I begin with today’s report? It was a whirlwind of activities in Banda Aceh. I gathered numerous impressions, witnessed beautiful sights, and delved into the rich history of Banda Aceh. My preconceptions about this city and its citizens have undergone a significant shift in these past days. I initially anticipated a more conservative atmosphere, expecting to change my clothes at the Grand Mosque yesterday. However, to my surprise, the locals were perfectly fine with my touristy outfit (t-shirt and shorts). No one appeared offended by my attire. Everywhere I go, the people exude hospitality, accompanied by warm smiles…

by Maarten

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Fountain in front of the Raya Baiturrahman Mosque

Indonesia

Day 22: Visiting the Raya Baiturrahman Mosque

January 17, 2014

Today, my plan was to ferry back to Banda Aceh, perhaps making it in time for a visit to the Raya Baiturrahman Mosque. I stirred around 5:45 am, snug in my spacious king-size bed. I couldn’t help but think about how much I would miss this resort. Freddies Santai Sumurtiga had surpassed my expectations—it truly lived up to the glowing online reviews. Following my morning shower, I organized my backpack. I found myself among the few early risers enjoying breakfast in the restaurant (they offered an early breakfast for those departing to Banda Aceh). The attentive staff at…

by Maarten

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