history Archives - Splinter's Paradise

Day 124: Arrow River and Queenstown

April 29, 2014

I woke up early around 8:30 am in the chilly morning, knowing that a visit to the breathtaking Arrow River and Queenstown awaited me. The night had been rough; it was bitterly cold. I regretted not heating up the car before going to sleep last night; the cold woke me up four times. Each time I was awake, I started the engine and turned on the heater. While waiting for the car to warm up, I rolled up my sleeping bag and took a moment for a quick bathroom break. I left immediately, planning to brush my teeth later…

by Maarten

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

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