Tag

volcanoes

The United States

Day 169: A flight, a hike and a flight

June 12, 2014

Today I would go on a nice hike at Diamond Head, Oahu. I woke promptly at 5:20 am and swiftly packed my belongings into the car’s trunk. By 5:30 am, I was on the road heading north towards Kailua-Kona airport, a drive Google estimated to take around 30 minutes. Hoping to grab breakfast at Subway along the way, I was disappointed to find none open. I fueled up for the last time in Kona before proceeding to the airport. Arriving at 6 am at the Dollar Rental premises, I was greeted by a staff member who efficiently checked…

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A beautiful waterfall surrounded by green nature, Rainbow Falls, the Big Island Hawaii
The United States

Day 166: Time well spent in paradise

June 9, 2014

Today was filled with a multitude of activities in and around Hilo. Due to the uncomfortable night, I woke up earlier than planned. By 4:40 am, I departed from the campsite and headed back towards the visitor center, a 15-minute drive from there to the Kilauea crater. Although the weather wasn’t rainy, a persistent drizzle persisted. However, what truly frustrated me was the poor visibility caused by thick clouds obscuring the scenery. Upon reaching the crater, I attempted to capture some photos, but unfortunately, they all turned out blurry. The combination of fog and low light proved too challenging…

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The United States

Day 165: The southernmost point of the United States

June 8, 2014

Today marks my journey’s pinnacle as I venture towards the Volcanoes National Park. I sluggishly arose at 9 am, later than intended, cursing my penchant for laziness. Slapping together a hasty breakfast of peanut butter on bread, I marveled at my consumption of carbs, relieved not to waste any slices this time. After a brisk shower, I swiftly prepared for the day, completing both breakfast and ablutions within 30 minutes. To my chagrin, the eccentric fellow in the Hawaiian shirt lingered at the hostel, irking me solely due to his odd demeanor. After an hour’s drive southward, I found myself…

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The Champagne Pool at Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
New-Zealand

Day 142: Colors and steam

May 17, 2014

Today, I planned to explore Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland near Rotorua—a mesmerizing thermal park boasting numerous spectacular geothermal features. What an extraordinary day it promised to be! I awoke at approximately 9:00 am and kicked off my day. After a refreshing shower and teeth brushing routine, I ventured to the outside terrace on the first floor of the dorm. While the hostel was satisfactory, the bathroom didn’t quite meet my cleanliness expectations, but I shrugged it off. Swiftly departing from Lake Taupo, I cruised down the Thermal Highway (I do appreciate these straightforward highway names, haha). The weather was…

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New-Zealand

Day 138: One does not simply walk into Mordor

May 13, 2014

Today, I embark on an adventure along the captivating State Highway 4 in New Zealand, where every twist and turn promises a journey filled with scenic delights. Embracing the morning vibes, I sprang out of bed, indulging in a refreshing shower and a quick tooth-brushing ritual. By 10 am, I bid farewell to the quirky hostel in Palmerston North, setting my sights on the legendary Tongariro National Park—renowned as the breathtaking backdrop for Mordor. The day ahead was tinged with uncertainty, thanks to the ominous rain forecast. However, as I stepped out, the weather seemed to defy expectations, offering…

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Indonesia

Day 50: Kawah Ijen, blue fire and Valentine’s day

February 14, 2014

I awoke at 12:30 am with a sense of excitement. Today was the day I would witness the mesmerizing blue fire at Kawah Ijen! Quickly, I put on my hiking shoes, layered up in warm clothes, and prepared my daypack, stuffing it with pastries and water. By 1 am, Robik, my guide, had arrived. We navigated along a well-kept asphalt road, encountering occasional steep inclines. Robik skillfully adjusted gears whenever the terrain demanded. After an hour, we reached the parking area, where I paid a 15000 IDR entrance fee and additional tourist fees of 30000 IDR for my camera…

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Indonesia

Day 46: Mount Bromo and the Rainbow Waterfall

February 10, 2014

Today began an epic adventure to Mount Bromo and the Rainbow waterfall. It became so much better than I had anticipated. At 12:30 I got up and started my day with a shower because I would definitely become dirty and sweaty anyway the next morning. Around 1 am I stood ready and the company then called the front desk inside my hotel (to say I should stand ready outside). Around 1:10 am the guide arrived and introduced himself as Harry. Harry would be my guide today and I paid him the required amount of money. Next, we went…

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Indonesia

Day 42: Gunung Merapi and Indonesian generosity

February 6, 2014

As I bid farewell to Yogyakarta today, I aimed to savor one last ride on my moped by visiting an observation point for Gunung Merapi. Rising at 4:30 am, I prepared myself, plugged in my headphones, and cruised towards the Borobudur temple once more. Since my arrival three days ago, I had become familiar with the city. Although every street in Yogyakarta seemed similar, I now felt oriented, recognizing the distinct signs of my street and surroundings. Upon reaching a point 40 kilometers north of Yogyakarta, I made a right turn towards Gunung Merapi, eager to capture a scenic…

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Maarten on Gunung Kerinci's summit with clouds in the background
Indonesia

Day 34: Touching the summit of Gunung Kerinci

January 29, 2014

We made it! Today, we successfully reached the summit of Gunung Kerinci, the highest volcano in Indonesia! As scheduled, Kimon roused me at 3 am. Despite feeling tired, the anticipation of reaching the summit fueled my excitement. I had a modest breakfast consisting of a cup of tea and half a pack of cookies before embarking on our hike from Shelter 2 to Shelter 3. The previous night, I experienced several interruptions in my sleep due to the freezing cold. Despite wearing layers such as boxer shorts, thermal trousers, pajama trousers, normal trousers, thermal shirt, pajama shirt, and a sweater…

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Indonesia

Day 33: Climbing Indonesia’s highest volcano Gunung Kerinci

January 28, 2014

I woke up around 7 am and received some nice breakfast. Today we would climb Gunung Kerinci to its base camp, shelter 2. For breakfast, Mr. Subandi’s wife made me banana pancakes. A few moments later I met Kimon, Mr. Subandi’s son. Kimon was 30 years old and was going to be my guide and porter for the next two days. Mr. Subandi supplied me with a sleeping bag, two bottles of water, a raincoat, hand gloves, and a warm cap. I packed my thermal wear, hiking shoes, pajamas, socks, two long trousers, and some small food. I needed everything…

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