World: A little small thing

Business Trip

2011-11-04T01:02:00.000-02:00

After travelling to 13 different countries around the world, for studying and tourism purposes, this time I am traveling for my first business trip.

My destination this time is Weaverville, North Carolina, USA. Why? This trip is mainly for a technical training in the XBOX Program. This is because the company I work for, is manufacturing Xbox Games and I will be trained at US site for improving and maintain the Microsoft policies and procedures at Brazilian site.

The trip started not when I went to the airport to take the plane, but when I had to apply for the US visa. To request it at the US Consulate, everyone has to apply by the web site, and the next available date for the interview was only 100 days later. I didn’t have this time to wait for it. For this reason I had to apply by an agent which could schedule the interview for less than a week.

At the date scheduled I went to the Consulate for the interview, which took around 3 and a half hour. Everything went OK, though.

Meanwhile, the trip was being schedule for the Nov, 5^th to Nov, 12^th.

At the Consulate, I was advised the time for receiving my passport back with the VISA would take from 6 business days. As it was Oct, 26^th I believed there was no problem to fly on the Nov,5^th. I wasn’t counting with a holiday during that week (Nov, 2^nd). For this holiday, the 6^th day was going to be at the day before the trip was scheduled (Nov, 4^th ). I advise no one to do that, because I could not work focused until I was noticed my passport had arrived at home. I was very worry to have to move my trip whether my passport had not arrived in time.

First happened was under control hopefully.

Iguassu Falls & Paraguay

2011-06-21T23:45:00.006-03:00

The trip to Foz do Iguaçu (Iguassu Falls) was very quicly. However, I could see how enormous and beautiful it is. Besides the Falls, my girlfriend and I could visit Paraguay and Usina de Itaipu (a hydroelectric dam on the Paraná River located on the border between Brazil and Paraguay).

The trip started on Friday – April, 29^th – when we caught the flight. As I live in Sao Paulo and my girlfriend lives in Sao José dos Campos (1 hour away), we had to meet at the airport. She had taken a bus which was going to arrive very close to the time of the flight. For this reason I decided to try to check in at the machine for us. My one was ok, her was “under authorization”, though. So I asked the company support what was going on. They advised me to ask the attendant as there were more people than seats, as the last flight was canceled. Hopefully, I could reserve a seat for her. Nevertheless, we had to sit far from each other. Shame on it!

After an hour and 20 minutes, we landed in Foz do Iguaçu. There a taxi driver was waiting for us to take us to the Normandie Hostel. It was around 2 am, so we just got ready to sleep to be ready for shopping in Paraguay on the day after.

8 am – the alarm was set.

9 am – it rang again. Wow.. so difficult to wake up!

After put the clothes on we went downstairs for breakfast (included at the hostel price). Then, let´s get the bus to Paraguay! As we didn’t know where the bus stop was, we asked at the pharmacy.

The bus every stop was getting more crowded. Saturday, is the busiest day in Paraguay. No problem!!!

There we could see a mix of shopping malls, peddlers and mini-outlets. There was anything who you couldn’t find there. Electronics, clothes, accessories, underwear, perfume, cosmetics, drinks, etc … Whatever you are looking for you can find. Although you can buy the products for a good price, usually cheaper than in Brazil and the border countries, you must test them (for electronics) or make sure it is really original.

I guess we spent around 5 or 6 hours walking around. We bought a few things, though. Spirits, perfumes, moisturizing and clothes.

Tired to walk, let´s get back to the Hostel to leave our new belongings. Still sunny, why not to have a beer?

Then, back to the Hostel, a rest to save energy for the night.

We had read on Internet there were clubs and bars close to the Hostel. But where? There was anything opened to ask. So we decided to walk and find something. At the gas station a guy oriented us the way to the bars. There we chose one and had drinks and beers with nachos.

Exhausted, we went to sleep.

Sunday, the last day! We woke up earlier, because we had to go to the Iguassu Falls and the Itaipu Dam. We decided to go to the Falls first! Bad choice, you will understand why … The weather, different than Saturday was cloudy. Not so good for viewing the falls.

We took the bus and head to the National Park (Brazilian side). It was freezing there. Because of the weather we gave up to do the Macuco Safari tour (The boat travels up the river through the canyon facing the rapids at a speed that allows the appreciation of the scenery).

So we just went to the edge to see the Iguassu Falls. It is huge!! At the “Garganta do Diabo” you are rounded by waterfalls. A can feel a great sensation over there.

Follow some pics …

The bad thing of the tour was when we left. Just because once we had left the National Park, the sun came out. We were so disappointed! Well.. there was nothing else to do, so we departed on the way to Itapu Dam.

Just before, we stopped at the Mc Donalds, as we were starving!!

Already at the Itaipu Dam, we decided for the panoramic tour (1 hour), instead of the complete tour (2 hours). The “Usina de Itaipu” is enormous. It is responsible for the total energy in Paraguay and around 20% in Brazil.

After the tour, we went to the same bar as the day before, for dinner. Then, we went to the Hostel to sleep. Our flight back was at 6 am. It was so hard to wake up! But we made it and caught the flight back to Sao Paulo. Back to the reality and work!

Rosa´s Beach and Florianopolis (Easter Holiday)

2011-05-08T00:22:00.001-03:00

As I had commented before 3 trips were planned. For Easter Holiday we went to Rosa´s Beach in Imbituba City where we stayed and Florianopolis where we just went for a Samba Show.

The trip started on the 21^st at 2 am, time we leaved the gas station on the way to Rosa´s Beach. We were expecting to take around 10 hours to get there. Wrong expectation! We took 4 hours at the fisrt 120 km, and we had more than 700 km in total to get the place.

Well, we took 17 hours to get to the Hostel we had booked. It was already 7 pm and everybody was very exhausted! For this day, besides traffic jam, the only thing we did, we had pizza and beers just to relax.

Already Friday, we woke up quite early to enjoy the beach. Hopefully the weather was great and we stayed for a long time at there. Finally we could enjoy our holiday! For the night barbecue and night club were already planned. So did we!

After club, one of the guys was excited to use his fireworks …

...the day after, he had to clean it up!

At the 3^rd day, April,23^rd, the weather was very bad … just raining and raining. However, we´d got tickets for a Samba Show (Exaltasamba) in Florianopolis, 70 km from where we were. The show were very nice and a few of us got quite drunk. The way back was quite bad, as everyone was tired to drive. On the way, we stopped for dinner in a barbecue restaurant. Then, back to the hostel, nobody did nothing but sleep.

The day after, day to go home. What we were praying was to not take the same time to get in town. Well, it wasn’t the same time as we took 15 hours. Only 2 hours less!

What I can say is that I won´t do it again. During holidays the roads get crazy by the traffic jam and some of them doesn’t even have infrastructure for having so many cars driving by.

Back home, time to sleep for working then.

New trips coming soon ...

2011-03-21T00:36:00.001-03:00

This week some ideas that I´m developing started to become true. For this reason, I am going to Argentina to discuss about one of this projects. To mix business and pleasure I bought a flight ticket also for my girlfriend who doesn´t know Buenos Aires.

Looking for cheap flight tickets I discovered that a Flight Company had a great promotion for travels in Brazil. After I bought the tickets to Argentina, which weren´t cheap, I checked this out just curious. However, I founded a flight to Foz do Iguaçu (Iguazu Falls) for a good price. So, I could not resist and I bought too.

I was missing this feeling of traveling! Now, there three trips coming soon!

Florianopolis - April, 20th - 24th (Easter holiday)

Foz do Iguaçu - April, 29th - May, 2nd (my birthday)

Buenos Aires - May, 28th - 30th (my girlfriend birthday)

Soon, new stories and pics will be posted!!

Carnaval 2011

2011-03-20T00:07:00.000-03:00

This year was the first Carnaval that I was not single. For who is not used to it is like a self-test. But I can say that I didn´t failed!

To be honest this Carnaval was very cool! From my part were my mom and I, and a couple of friends. From my girlfriend´s part were her parents, brother and wife, sister and boyfriend, and a few friends. All of them were very nice and friendly.

The worst part was the weather. It didn´t stop raining. Anyway, we enjoyed a lot even under the rain.

Ouch! I almost forgot to say where we went. The city is called Lambari, in Minas Gerais State. A really small city, charming, though.

The parties were during the day, usually from 2 pm, played by a band on a "Trio Elétrico"* surrounded by fences, with open bars with free beers, water and soft drinks. (Actually the drinks weren´t free as we had to pre pay to get into the party).

__________

*Trio Elétrico is the name we give to a truck equipped with an extremely high powerful sound system and a music group on top of it.

At the end the Trio Elétrico left the place on the way to the main square, where the party was going on for local people with a huge stage with many bands and singers playing.

Follow below some more pics of this crazy Carnaval!

What a wonderful place

2011-01-10T22:03:00.000-02:00

I don’t get tired of travelling at all! This is my passion! I wish I could live travelling around the world … Any investor to invest on me? Lol…

After a year back in Brazil, I haven’t traveled much, only weekends to the beach or countryside friend´s house. Finally, at the end of 2010 I had a week off and my girlfriend and I went to Bahia. Famous for the hot weather, capoeira, spicy food, Carnival… etc.

At the capital Salvador, a tourist city, you can find the Market called Mercado Modelo, famous for selling souvenirs, as handicrafts and t-shirts, drinks, spices, etc. At the top floor, you also can enjoy a typical food, such as acarajé. Around there, at the city, both Lacerda Elevator and the Pelourinho must be visited for you culture and historical buildings.

The place that I fell in love in Bahia is Morro de São Paulo, located at Tinharé Island. Day by day, I’m thinking that I should move to a Beach city, working in Hospitality or better, having my own Business. I wish I had money enough for opening my business there. I would be so happy!!! I tried betting the lottery while I was there, but I was unsuccessful.

Amazing beaches, awesome bars, happy people, great weather, nice environment, beautiful sunset … what else?

No words to describe the great time I had there with my girlfriend. Just have a look at the pics! Enjoy it!

What to do???

2010-11-18T14:33:00.001-02:00

Daily, I think about what I can do to change the world and also to change my life! It is so complicated!

Every day new ideas come up to my mind, such as to change my job; opening a new business; helping NGOs; to live in Australia … etc.

Today for example, I am willing to have my own business. But until yesterday I was planning to move to Australia and live around there in 2 years from now.

To be honest I would like to do everything! My dream is to achieve my goals as below:

Now: to fund-raising for NGO called “Casas Taiguara”.

6 months: To get a promotion or to get a challenger job.

1 – 2 years: Opening my own business.

2 – 3 years: To live in Australia.

It doesn’t seem so difficult. However I usually change my mind about what I should to focus first.

Anyway, I will endeavor to accomplish my dream!

WISH ME LUCK!!

Holidays

2010-11-16T23:36:00.002-02:00

At the last 2 months I have worked a lot! So much that I used to wake up to work, and get back home just to have dinner and sleep.

After this crazy time at work, at least I will have a rest during the New Years Eve. As the Company where I am working for has a break in the week between Xmas and NYE, I will travel to Bahia with my girlfriend. 2 days in Salvador e 4 days in Morro de Sao Paulo.

I can`t wait for this trip!! Today I start the countdown: 40 days … Bahia here we go!

If anybody who is reading this blog also goes to Salvador and Morrod e Sao Paulo from Dec,26th to Jan, 2nd let me know. We can maybe meet up …

I love beach!!

2010-11-16T23:19:00.001-02:00

I can’t measure how much I love beach! It is a passion no measurable. Living in Sao Paulo is being hard after 1,5 year living in Australia and New Zealand. I used to go to the beach at least 3 times a week. Here in Brazil 3 times per semester, I think! Very upset!

Anyway, as much as I can I go to my girlfriend´s beach house in Caraguatatuba, Sao Paulo north coast. However, the weather is a problem there. The sun appears rarely. Lol… actually not so rarely, but it rains a lot.

Last Monday was national holiday, so we could go to the beach. Even if the sun came only on Monday, we could enjoy Friday, Saturday and Sunday outside the city. Time enough out of the office to forget job problems.

In this trip my mom also went with us. She could meet my girlfriend´s parents and relatives.

Follow some pics below ...

Since a few days ago, we are thinking about going back to Australia. It wouldn’t be a bad idea! Who knows if in 2 years we don’t get back to that paradise???

Already dreaming... OH BONDI BEACH!!

News

2010-11-16T22:44:00.002-02:00

Long time without writing on my blog. At the beggining no changes. Then, i had a lot of work and no time to write

So, I will update the changes of my life by subjects:

- Education: I keep studying since I am back. Many courses with majors in Foreign Trade, International Affairs, Negotiating, Trade Marketing and Business Management.

- Work: Since May I am working in a German Company called Arvato Digital Services. Its main business is Media replication (CD / DVD). I am responsible for customer service of local and international clients.

- Personnel: I am now dating a girl who I had met in Australia. Funny, hun? She’s not Australian, though. She’s actually Brazilian and lives in the city next to mine. A bit far away but until now we had no problem. The bad thing is that we can meet each other only on weekends. On the other hand we don’t get bored to each other.

These are all the last changes of my life... then, i will post some of the trips i have had in this period.

Carnaval 2010 - Brazil

2010-02-26T13:21:00.002-03:00

Here in Brazil, the Carnaval, is probably the most famous Holiday, as it is a 5 day party all around the country.

Everywhere you go, you can enjoy parties of all styles of people, music and places. The most famous places for Carnaval are Rio de Janeiro and Salvador. I have already been to Salvador in one day of this holiday, when I went on a cruise, called Carnavio. The party in Salvador is spectacular!! Shame that it was just for a day.

In Rio I have never had the chance, unless to see the “rehearsal” at the Avenue. There were only 3 samba schools, but one of the most important: Mangueira.

Although in Rio I have never watched the Carnaval Parade, in São Paulo I have watched 2 times. First, in 2002 I think, and last time, this year.

Along the year, there are many rehearsals in each samba school court, where they choose for the lyrics, costume and everything necessary to win the parade. During the rehearsal everyone can go to know the samba school, to know the music theme and to enjoy with friends.

I have gone to the Rosas de Ouro court, where I usually go before the parade. This year I went there many times with friends. What a surprised, after many years this school won the 2010 Carnaval Parade. I was so glad!

It was a pity that when I went to the parade, this school wasn't on the roster for that day, but for the day before.

Anyway, after come back from overseas, I could enjoy the rehearsals during January, one day of Carnaval Parade and BBQ washed down with beers and swimming pool, in my friend’s country house.

Back to the REALITY

2009-12-16T08:16:00.005-02:00

Since two days ago, I'm back in Brazil. It's nice to be back home. However, it's weird!

From now on, its a new beggining. Time to re start my life, my career.

I won't change the title of my blog, even though I'm now living in Brazil. I will keep this blog to remember stories from all my life overseas, and also daily stories back home.

Trip in New Zealand: Hanmer Springs & Kaikoura

2009-12-14T11:39:00.002-02:00

23/11/2009

Sunny Monday!!!

We had the morning to enjoy Hanmer Springs and then, moving on to Kaikoura.

In Hanmer Springs we could hire a mountain bike and know all the area around up to the mountain where there were some trails. We had 4 hours hired and didn’t think it would be a problem, until …

Well, at the beginning, some nice trails, just straight. Then we went back on the road going up the mountain. From there, it started to complicate. The track was really steep what made us get out of the bicycle and walk, taking them by hand.

Up there we got lost. The plan was to get around the mountain and get back to the center. At the middle, we believe, there was something wrong in the map. We were following orange arrows, but it was impossible to follow them riding a bicycle. It was really really steep. There was another way, but it didn’t seem to be the right way. Without options we decided to come back through the same way, which was amazing as it was only downhill. The 3 hours we took to get uphill we did in less than 15 min to get down.

We think all the ride we did was around 30K, which is really good for a Monday morning, isn’t it?

Back to the center why not Hot Pools again, to relax? Lol …

Not spending a long time in the pool this time, we had lunch in a Thai Restaurant that cost us around 15 dollars each. It was an absurd for me, as in Thailand I didn’t spend more than 2 dollars for the same dish. Anyway, it was really good!!!

It was time to go to Kaikoura. We were really excited to go there as they offer nice tours for watching and swimming with dolphins, seals and whales.

Arriving in Kaikoura we looked for the Albatross Backpackers, where we had booked for that night. Beds ready we went to know the city and we witness a beautiful sunset between the mountains and lightening the ocean.

Then, just before sleep, we went back to the hostel and just had some beers while we were talking to each other.

One more day was gone …

Trip in New Zealand: Greymouth & Hanmer Springs

2009-12-14T11:20:00.032-02:00

22/11/2009

After a good sleep we were ready to leave Franz Josef towards Hanmer Springs passing through Greymouth.

So we bought a few things for breakfast and left.

Thiago was the driver and he loves to stop everywhere for pictures and to make sure there is nothing different to see, as birds, waterfalls, etc.

Already in Greymouth we parked the car and walked around the small town to find out museums, statues, clocks and everything which could represent the city.

In Greymouth departs a train towards Christchurch. The company called Tranz Scenic, says that the way between those cities there are beautiful landscapes and it’s a must to do. However, my friend Vini, has done this trip over the train few days before and didn’t like that much. He said it wasn’t different than the landscapes he had seen in other trips by bus in NZ.

Both of Thiago and Fabricio wanted to buy a jacket in reason they hadn`t taken enough for the trip. So we went to the Warehouse, just next to the Train Station. On the way, Thiago disappear. Fabricio instead, bought a cap.

On the way back, we found Thiago in a book shop, looking some books (in English!! Don`t forget that he doesn’t speak at all…LOL).

Back on the road, nice landscapes came through us.

(...)

Getting in Hanmer Springs, we decided to find a backpacker before anything. We couldn’t have the chance to get in trouble again. So we found a very comfortable backpacker for a good price and which allowed us to have as much ice cream as we could. We left it for the dinner.

Nothing else to do we went to the place where (I think) all the residents go on Sundays: Hot Pools (again!!). I say everyone, because there was nothing else to do in town and the pools were crowded.

Later on, we left the pool as the market closes at 5pm (so early!!!) and we had to buy something for dinner, otherwise we would have to eat all the ice cream available..LOL.

The menu was: Spaghetti with salmon and Red wine. Desert: ICE CREAM… A LOT!!

Meanwhile we talked to the owner and other guests to decide what we could do the day after. Quite tired we just had a look in the options and left it for the other day.

Trip in New Zealand: Franz Josef

2009-12-14T11:12:00.000-02:00

21/11/2009

This day, we were planning to go for a Glacier Tour. However, as we had arrived late in town we couldn’t book previously. So we woke up and I called the company to make sure there were places available for us 3.

Booking ready, everything was ok. Except that were going for a trekking in the glaciers for around 8 hours and we hadn’t had breakfast and neither had bought anything for lunch.

Already late, the guide told us to run and to buy something to drink and eat, because it was going to be extremely necessary as there wasn’t anything on the way.

So there were a convenience store next to the shop where we bought some snacks and Gatorades.

Back to the shop we had to hurry up to take the specific clothes for a freezing weather. Ready in the bus, we went with others dozens of people.

At the beginning we thought it was going to be easy. Nevertheless, we didn’t expect the rain, really cold temperature and that we were going to walk that much. 10k in those conditions is not for everyone.

Back in town, we needed to relax. For this, nothing better than HOT POOLS.

We spent around 2 hours at the hot pools. There we were thinking if we were going to stay in Franz Josef one more night or leave. So we decided to stay as we were really exhausted.

Leaving the pools around 8 pm, we went to the backpacker we had stayed the night before. Another problem, as we hadn’t booked, there were no beds available. The solutions were to pray to have another one still open, sleep in the car or hit the road towards a new city.

I called some backpackers till I find one that were almost closing, called Monrose. Thank God we didn’t have to sleep in the car.

Once we paid and got the key, we went to the Rainforest for dinner. Just before we use the time to wash and dry our clothes while the food was getting ready.

Everything done, we went to bed.

Trip in New Zealand: Queenstown (again)

2009-12-14T11:00:00.000-02:00

20/11/2009

Our plan was to go to Franz Josef this day. But we saw another activity that sparked our attention and perhaps, we could do it during the morning.

So the day before, we decided to try to go for River Boarding (or River Surfing). So we looked for some agency, which was still open, that we could book for today. Lucky, we found it.

So we went to “surf” in a River.

Before leave the town we took some pictures of our Backpacker, the famous Fergburger, Baccelli …

Thiago hugging our ex "school mate" Baccelli.

The BEST burger EVER!!! FERGBURGER!!!

The experience was great!!! The river was almost low, though.

Besides, we could jump from a cliff of 7, 9 and 11 meters. I just jumped from the 7. Fabricio jumped from the 7 and 9. Thiago jumped from the 11 and also wanted to go farther. The instructor didn’t allow, though, as he was jumping in a wrong way and it might be dangerous.

After that, there was a Slide we could go using the board. It was very nice too!

Back to Queenstown, we have lunch and got ready to go to Franz Josef.

We got there around 8 o`clock. Thinking we could book some backpacker anytime, we almost got in trouble, having to sleep in the car. Except one, all the others close at 8. So we could get a room in the Rainforest Backpackers, just because it closes at 8.30pm.

Later on, Thiago and I went for a beer at the Rainforest Bar. Fabricio went to bed, as normal.

Trip in New Zealand: Te Anau & Milford Sound

2009-12-14T10:55:00.000-02:00

19/11/2009

On the 4th day in Queenstown, we decided to go to Milford Sound. We did by Kiwi Experience, a very well known tour company in New Zealand.

Milford Sound is known as a very nice place, with beautiful landscapes. However, it can’t be the same in a bad weather.

Unlucky, we got a very bad weather. So it wasn’t a good trip in our opinion just because of the rain.

Anyway, we couldn’t give up. So we passed by mountains, lakes, fields, etc. After a few hours we stopped over Te Anau, the biggest city before Milford Sound, just for a little walk and toilets.

Later, we arrived in Milford Sound, where we were going for a Cruise. The Cruise takes 2 hours around and provides lunch for the passengers.

Most of the passengers were Indians, so they had a different Menu for lunch. The lunch took almost the 2 hours, till everyone get your plate and have a sit. The food was quite good, though.

Mirror Lake

After lunch, there was not much to see, as it was raining a lot outside of the ship. Nevertheless, we could take a picture next to a nice waterfall and Thiago’s friend. Lol… (the Asian lady who was sat next to him in the bus).

Seals

Thiago's Asian friend

On the way back, everyone fell asleep, as the trip was long and nothing else to see.

Back in Queenstown, we went out a little while as we were used to.

Trip in New Zealand: Queenstown

2009-12-14T10:50:00.001-02:00

18/11/2009

The options chosen for this day were: Bungy Jump and Gondola + Luge rides. However, Fabricio and I had paid only as an expectator for the Nevis Bungy Jump (134m). We wanted to jump, but we were undecided, as it scared us. Anyway, if we decided to jump, we would pay only the difference between we had already paid.

As we had woke up late, we didn’t have breakfast and run to the Bungy Jump Store to wait for the bus. Once we arrived there, we (Fabricio and I) got really nervous and frightened. Thiago was the first one to jump. He was extremely excited!!! I don’t know how!

Back from the jump, he was still excited! He said, though, a funny thing to the instructor: “I go together, I go together!!” The instructor looked at him without knowing what he was meaning. But as Thiago doesn’t speak English, he meant “I want to go again”.

Later on, after another people jump, the instructor asked me and Fabricio if we would like to jump or not, and we had to decide at that moment. We looked each other and Fabricio said “YES”. From there I was completely scared. I couldn’t be the only one, who wouldn’t jump. I couldn’t give up again, once I had been there few months before with Mariana and I didn’t jump.

So did Fabricio! So did I! Fabricio almost jump before be allowed. But me, I took about 2 minutes to jump. I was just thinking about my death. If I were there without friends I’m sure I wouldn’t do it.

All three did it!! Great sensation! A big challenge was accomplished!

(…)

Back to town, nothing better than eat something. We had lunch at Subway and then went for the Gondola and Luge.

Few pictures were taken around the Mount and then we were ready for the Luge rides. We had 5 of them, enough to have fun. Usually, people go for it just as a ride. Instead, our rides were as a race! However, the objective was not to be the first one, but to try to break the others, bumping into them, crashing them.

At the end, there wasn’t a champion, but a lot of laughs.

Back down the Mount, we had a little walk around and went back to the Backpacker for a nap. Really tired, we slept till 10 pm.

At night, we went out for a while and we met 2 guys we had met at the Rafting, one guy who looks like Maurano (our friend in Brazil) and a Comic guy, bold and with a long beard.

Hungry, we all went to the best Burguer in New Zealand = FERGBURGUER.

17/11

As we had booked activities during the afternoon, we could sleep longer. After breakfast and just before going for the Triple Challenge, which was included, Jet Boat, Helicopter and Rafting, we had a walk around the city. Queenstown is known by the Adventures Sports and even though it is a really small city, it receives every single day, plenty of tourists, looking for new experiences.

During our walking, Fabricio and I attended a scenic and funny situation, illustrated by Thiago. Next to a little river, surrounded by trees, benchs, people having lunch, Thiago suddenly decided to catch one of the Ducks, which were around. However, the trying wasn’t as normally, but it was like a goal keeper does to catch a ball in a really difficult shot by the soccer player.

Fabricio and I couldn’t stop laughing. We couldn’t imagine that he was going to do something like that. The people around didn’t understand what was going on. They just looked surprised.

Unfortunately, we didn’t video this comic scene.

(…)

Moving on, but still laughing, we went for the Triple Challenge. The first one was the Jet Boat. A fast boat which drives around rocks and does 360o turns along the river.

Secondly, a helicopter gave us a ride up the river where we were going to do Rafting. Although the helicopter ride, looked just a simple ride, the pilot did some free style which became it exciting and scared.

Following, the Rafting finished great the Challenges. Our guide was Brazilian, and had a funny and strong accent.

(…)

Back to the BASE, we had a meal and bought some beers and vodka for the night.

This day seemed as Thiago’s day. And just not seemed, but it happened. After some drinks in the room, we went out. We were having some beers at the Atitude Bar, when suddenly Fabricio saw Thiago being kicked out by the security. However, another comic scene!! The security man was carrying him up side down!!! Fabricio started laughing and I was upset to have missed this fact.

Thiago affirmed that he wasn’t doing anything wrong, just talking to a girl. We thought that, maybe, her boyfriend could have called the security man for jealousy.

Anyway, we couldn’t do anything about, and Thiago couldn’t get in again. After a while, he came to another guy who was at the entrance and tried to get in. Without success and angry, he said:

"I fight you,
I broke you,
I slice you"

In English it doesn't sound clear, but the way how he said was enough to understand perfectly.

Another happening we don’t have any record.

Trip in New Zealand: Geraldine, Lake Tekapo, Mount Cook & Omarama

2009-12-14T10:40:00.000-02:00

16/11/2009

After having breakfast we decided to buy a GPS, otherwise we would get lost and waste our precious time. We bought it at the Dick Smith store.

Ready to go, we had our first stop defined: Geraldine.

A really simple and small city on the way to Queenstown. With the spirit of a chinese, we couldn't miss anything and take pictures from everything: Brunch, Police Station, Museum ...

Nothing else to do, we left on the way to the Lake Tekapo. With no doubts, it was incredible!! Wonderful! Really, really nice!!!

After lots of pictures, the next place to visit was the Mount Cook. Unfortunately, up there the weather wasn't so good. Really cold, actually.

In this reason, we just stayed a while, for seeing the museum and to take pictures.

After that we were ready to go straight to Queenstown. However, we were starving and we had to fill up the Fuel.

On the way to Queenstown, there was a really small city, called Omarama. There we enjoyed a mix of Fish, chips and nuggets, all together, full of oil. Lol ...

Everything full, stomach and fuel, we drove to Queenstown. Again checked into the Base Backpackers.

We bought some beers and then stayed a while at the Altitude Bar.

Trip in New Zealand: Christchurch

2009-12-14T10:26:00.000-02:00

15/11/2009

Arriving in Christchurch we had to pick up the car i had rented from Jucy. Almost all good if the GPS i had hired by Internet wasn't unavailable. We were quite disappointed because of that, but we thought about buying one instead.

Using a paper map we arrived in the City Centre of Christchurch and checked into the Base Backpacker.

Acording the time (10.00 am) we could not go to room before 2.00 pm, as it was being cleaned. To not waste our time, we walked around the city and did the tourist things, such as the Tram and the Gondola.

Up to the Mount by the Gondola, we did a small treking to have a look around. Small but really tiring, as we hadn't slept since the nap at the day before.

Back to the hostel, we cooked our LINNER (Lunch + Dinner) and then had a beer at the bar of the hostel. Really quiet, Fabricio went to bed and Thiago and I tried to find another place to go. Nobody at the street, nobody at the bars, Bars closed. It was Sunday. Nothing to do at all, we went to bed.

Trip in New Zealand: Auckland

2009-12-14T10:20:00.000-02:00

13/11/2009

8.00 am - After get ready to work, the time I was leaving home I received a call from a landline. As I was waiting for my friends to call me anouncing they had arrived in New Zealand I answered quite happy. Weren't them, but about them, though. It was from the Immigration.

The first question was: "Are you waiting for friends to travel in New Zealand?" Of course i was! However the woman started asking me lots of questions what made me get afraid of what was going on.

Such as: "Where are you going to travel?" "How?" Which company have you hired the car?" "What's the number of your flight to Christchurch?" "What do your friends do in Brazil?" "Why are they here?"

And also: "What are you doing in New Zealand?" "What is you full name and your passport number?" "What is your visa?" "How long are you going to stay in New Zealand"

A call that I expected that was just for checking started making me worried. Anyway, I explained to her everything.

9.30 am - No calls from my friends.

10.00 am - Nothing yet.

10.30 am - I got a call from them. UFA!!!

They were in and already going to the Hostel. However, they said one of them almost wasn't allowed to get in. One problem: As I was here, I had planned all our trip and they didn't even know any place we were going to. Another problem: they kept the one who doesn't speak English.

After work i went to meet them and hopefully ended everything all right. We had lunch with a girl from an agency who speaks often with Fabricio in Brazil.

The guys went to the Hostel for a rest while i went to my last day of work at the Wildfire.

(...)

At night, we went out and had some fun at the Danny Doonlans. Back home at 7 am.

14/11Awake for almost 24 hs I missed my last day at the cleaning job. After wake up, i called the boss and there was no problem.

Fabricio and Thiago woke up early and walked around Auckland. Around 12pm they came to my flat and then we went to Mission Bay.

There we could enjoy a really nice and expensive PAELLA.

Then, they went back to the Hostel and I went to the flat. We were tired, so we had a quite long nap. Until 10pm.

Our flight to Christchurch was at 6.40am. So we decided to go somewhere for a couple beers and stay awake to not miss it.

Instead of catching the Airport bus we catched a Taxi because the driver offered a cheaper price.

Starving we ate an asian noodles, which was really spicy.

Update

2009-12-11T01:32:00.001-02:00

After one month without posting, i come just to say that soon i will post all the stories about the trip in New Zealand!

All what I can say now is that everything was AWESOME!!!

No limits!! No laws!!

Trips in New Zealand - Part 4: Transport

2009-11-09T23:23:00.004-02:00

After many searches, many quotes, many things, we decided how we are going to travel.

The 3 options were:

1) By Bus

There are many companies that you could by a bus pass, and travel around New Zealand, following your own itinerary.

2) By Motorhome

This one seems a good choice. But as we are in 3 people, the options were quite expensive.

3) By Car

Yesss!! The option chosen was by car!! A Toyota Previa is gonna be our transport. A little bit more expensive than the cheapest car option, but more confortable, though.

We thought that if we travel by motorhome, it would be nice as well we could pull it over anywhere and sleep. But at the same time, we woudn't meet many people, as it happens when we stay at the Backpackers (Hostel).

So, it is gonna be more excited meeting people everywhere, and reaching faster to our destiny.

Trips in New Zealand - Part 3: Itinerary

2009-11-09T22:34:00.004-02:00

Finally I have finished the itinerary for our trip.

Its funny cuz Fabricio and Thiago, my friends who are coming from Brazil to travel with me, don't know any place, anyone, anything about New Zealand. So whatever I plan, they will be happy. Hehehe...

As they will have only 20 days in New Zealand, I planned the trip to start over the South Island, known the best part of NZ. Just before it, they will stay 2 days in Auckland, where we can enjoy the nightlife!!!

Follow bellow the complete Itinerary:

November
15 - Christchurch
16 - Christchurch - Geraldine, Lake Takapo, Mt Cook - Queenstown
17 - Queenstown
18 - Queenstown
19 - Milford Sound - Queenstown
20 - Queenstown - Fraz Josef
21 - Franz Josef
22 - F. Josef - Greymouth
23 - Greymouth - Christchurch
24 - Hammer Springs - Christchurch
25 - Christchurch - Kaikoura
26 - Kaikoura - Blenhein - Nelson
27 - Nelson (Abel Tasman National Park)
28 - Nelson - Picton - Wellington
29 - Wellington
30 - Wellington - Taupo
December
01 - Taupo
02 - Rotorua
*03 - Auckland / Rotorua
04 - Waitomo
05 - Bay of plenty
06 - Bay of plenty
07 - Raglan
08 - Coromandel
09 - Coromandel
10 - Bay of island
11 - Bay of island / Cape reinga
12 - Auckland

* At this day, my friends will be going back to Brazil and I will keep travelling for a few more days.

Today, Vini is coming back from a 15 days trip over the South Island and will be responsible to give me tips and advices to improve our trip.

Internet in NZ

2009-11-05T06:40:00.001-02:00

OH MY GOD!!! I hate the internet here in NZ!!! It is so slow!!!

I'm taking ages to do my searches. I stop seaching when I give up, not when I finish.

Things that i could solve in a couple hours are taking me days ... Oh GOSHHH!!!

Once I heard from a Brazilian saying that Internet in NZ is the same as IG* Dial-up in raining days!!!

*IG (Internet Gratis) was a free internet connection in Brazil. It was so bad to connect!!

I hope i can finish it before start travelling ... 9 days left!!!

Trips in New Zealand - Part 2: Places to go

2009-11-04T03:03:00.006-02:00

Ten days left to start travelling, it was time to make the itinerary. However its not done yet, due to 2 reasons:

1. I'm waiting for the dates which Fabricio and Thiago Camelo (friends from Brazil) will be here.

2. I don't know from where i will start it. If it will be from the North to South Island, or the opposite. At the moment, i`m planning to start from Christchurch (south Island).

Anyway, the places to go were decided already:

South Island

Christchurch
Geraldine
Lake Tekapo
Mt. Cook
Queenstown
Milford Sound
Franz Josef
Greymouth
Hammer Springs
Kaikoura
Nelson (Abel Tasman National Park)

North Island

Wellington
Tongariro
Rotorua
Taupo
Waitomo
Bay of Plenty (Tauranga, Mt. Maungani, White Island)
Raglan
Coromandel Peninsula
Whangarei
Bay of Islands
Cape reinga

A lot of places for 28 days, huh?

However, part of them will be just for a little stay (less than a day), as they are on the way to somewhere better to stay and enjoy, or because it is worth just for a day tour.

Unfortunately, i think my friends won`t be able for the whole travel. Most of, though.

Well, the places are now decided. Next step? The exactly sequence and duration in each place.

Long Bay Regional Park & Beach

2009-11-01T21:42:00.009-02:00

Since last week, the weather is becoming warmer. We are having sunny days everyday, which means, the time for beach is now on.

After 3 weeks, working 7 days a week, I had 3 days off at the Wildfire. Last Wednesday, after the cleaning job, I went to the Long Bay Regional Park.

From takapuna the bus takes around 40 min. From the city, more than an hour.

The Park is quite big, where is a really nice place to relax, for sunbaths, picnics, to play with kids, BBQ and etc.

Besides the park, just next to it, there is a beach. Really quiet! Almost none! It might be, because it was Wednesday.. or just because it is quiet anyway.

I spent around 4 hours there ... walking around the park, the beach, relaxing, taking pictures ...

Little Dunga, of course, attended!!

Mexican Night

2009-10-29T04:59:00.009-02:00

After leave Australia, I hadn’t had Nachos again. And I think I would never have some Nachos as good as at the Bunga Bar, in Sydney.

So I decided to try to do it by myself, instead of have somewhere else here.
At the beginning, I was trying to remember how the Nachos at the Bunga Bar were. All the ingredients, and how it looks.

Then, I looked on youtube to see if there was any recipe of Nachos. There are some, but not of Beef Nachos. There are recipes of sauces. Not a dish as there was at Bunga Bar.

Anyway I bought all the ingredients I could find and it was going to be enough to make it. Among them:

Beef
Pasta sauce
Parsley
Nachos chips (or Doritos, if you find)
Chili
Mozzarella and Cheddar cheese
Sour cream
Avocado
Tomatoes

Pretty easy!! Just follow the pictures below and you will be able to do yourself.

Coronas are the main ingredient for a good Mexican Night!!.. hehe.. Unfortunately, we didn't have Tequila.

READY!!!!!

This time Moab was the unlucky who couldn't enjoy the meal!!

By the way, it was awesome! Of course not the same as at the Bunga Bar, but awesome!!!

Samba/Pagode

2009-10-27T00:09:00.010-02:00

Since Vini has arrived in New Zealand, we were going together, every Thursday, to the Brooklyn Bar to see and play (sometimes) with the Brazilian Band, called “Maracanã”.

We attended it for 10 weeks (I guess). However, last Thursday was Vini’s last time. He is leaving New Zealand in a couple weeks, so he decided to travel around during his last days, owing to his English classes has finished.

So, I have a selection of pictures of the days we went to the Samba.

Little Dunga (Dunguinha) was attended too!!

Marcelo, Vini, Pelé, Me and David.

Pelé and Alex (Band's manager).

Pelé and Xandi (Harmonia do Samba..LOL).

Doug Funny, me and Pikachu.

Doug Funny, Alex, Pikachu, Gaucho Bezerra da Silva and half of me.. hehe.

Alex, Pikachu and Arouca.

Vini (Bear Pooh) playing "Caixa".

Vini playing "repinique".

That's it!!! The Band is full of famous characters such as Doug, Xandi, Bear Pooh … Biro Biro, etc. Most of them dubbed by Vini. Until now, almost 3 months later, I don’t know the real name of Doug Funny and Arouca. And Doug has eaten many times at Wildfire… and I always call him as Doug. I don’t know if he likes it, though.

Although the Brooklyn bar was a nice place to go, with the Brazilian band and funny people, there were in average 85% of men. Yeahh.. only 15% of women. Really bad, huh? As Vini always says "There were 15 guys for each man!" In Portuguese "15 homens pra cada rapaizzzzz..."

Don't know if it’s true, but I heard next week will be the last day of samba in the Brooklyn bar. Yeah.. no more!!! Problems with $$$.. hehehe..

Well.. I hope they find another place to play, though. Anyway, in 3 weeks I will be traveling and will not be able to enjoy it.

Flat 723

2009-10-20T23:02:00.006-02:00

After many changes, the flat is now complete again. The old ones, Marcelo and me, and the new ones, Moab and Nina.

Me (Brazil), Marcelo (Chile), Nina (Germany) & Moab (Brazil)

Moab moved in on Oct 11th, and Nina the last Saturday (17th). The same day Nina had moved in, we went out. All of us had some beers at home, and when we were going out, Marcelo and Moab gave up. So Nina and I left home and went first to the Backpacker she was staying before move in (same one I stayed for a week at the beginning).

There were 3 guys (German, French and Argentinean) and another girl (German). After 20 min, we left there heading to Viaduct Harbour. We got into the Provedor and then, everyone starving, Burger King, of course!!!

Argentina, Germany, Germany, Brazil

We don't know what happened with the other two guys. They disappeared suddenly.

(...)

The next day, as I had planned with Moab, we bought some stuffs to cook a meal for lunch for us. Unlucky, Marcelo had to work. So the lucky ones were Moab, Nina and me.

Mixed Rice (Arroz à grega) & Strogonoff

After a few beers and a great meal, I was ready for a nap. However, I had to work at 5pm, in a sunny Sunday. OMG!!!

Crazy Real Txt Conversation

2009-10-20T08:22:00.003-02:00

Follow below a real txt conversantion that i had by mobile with an ex flatmate, about the Bond*.

*Bond is a money taken by the "manager" of the flat for security. Used if the person breaks something or even leave the flat without notice it. If nothing happens the manager give it backs when the person moved out.

___________________

Sina - “Hey did you find 2 flatmates?”
Leandro – “Yes. The last one moved in yesterday.”

Sina – “Oh ok. So do I get the bond back?”
Leandro – “No bond back! The bond was used 2 pay ur last 2 weeks!”

Sina – “ Then why did you tell me you used it to cover the Argentinean girl and then tell me if you find flatmates by Saturday that you will pay it. Now you say you used it to pay the last 2 weeks. You need to stick with 1 story.”
Leandro – “Dnt mis it up! Give me ur email n ill explain 2 u”

Sina – “kurius@... Im going to the tenancy tribunal.
Leandro - “Sina, is there any chance we meet each other this week to explain abt the bond? Thats better to talk than to send email.”

Sina - “Im sorry I have spent enough time listening to you. I will be visiting the tenancy tribunal and city council to get legal advice”
Leandro – “Up 2 u!”

Sina – “This is what happens when you don’t communicate and you lie.”
Leandro – “I didn’t lie any time. U who didn’t understand! Anyway, do whatever u want!”

Sina – “When I first moved in none of you boys talked to me so I moved in with my bf at the time for 2 or 3 weeks. I should have moved out but I didn’t. So I paid for 2 or 3 weeks I wasn’t there. You said to me that you want to be my friend but you`ve never made me feel like one. All you`ve ever wanted was my money. Then there`s the whole ‘I had to use your bond to cover the Argentinean girl but don’t worry you`ll get it back’. Just lie after lie.”
Leandro – “Dnt mix different subjects! And everyth u said is still not true! Anyway, I wont argue with u by txt. If u wanna talk as 2 adults, let me know.”

Sina – “Hahahaha what makes you think ill waste more time on you. You’ve got my money and ive learnt a huge lesson. I will talk to the tenancy tribunal and see what they have to say.”
Leandro – “That’s why u dnt hv friends! U think everyone lies 2 u! U dnt see the truth! The truth is wat u hv in ur mind atm! U realy need a psycologist.”

Sina – “You don’t know me so don’t pretend you do. You obviously don’t care so save you lies for the next victim. I thought you were a good person but I was mistaken.”
Leandro – “The only person who had a problem with me were u! Think first abt wat u did in the flat. Secondly, a quick explanation abt ur bond. On Oct, 2nd I told u 2 leave in 2 weeks. U didn’t pay 4 those weeks, right? As u hadpaid the rent the week b4, I returned u the money, from sun 2 tue. If I had founf smo b4 17th, id give u a percetual of ur bond bak. If u know just a little of maths, u will understand.”

Sina – “Yea because you talk to them. You never really talked to me. Ok I understand bt I paid for 2 wkz wen I was at my bfs so y r u complaining.”
Leandro – “It was ur choice 2 stay there! I cannot pay those weeks 2 u!”

Sina – “Im just saying that you have 2 weeks bond and also 2 weeks when I wasn’t there so you have more than enough provided you saved it.”
Leandro – “Sina, u still dnt understand. The two weeks u weren’t there I paid the rent normally. And the bond was used 2 pay ur last 2 weeks that u didn’t pay the rent.”

Sina – “No u dnt understand. I wasn’t there for 2 weeks which means the bills would be less than usual. You`re just greedy and rude.”
Leandro – “A flat is not a backpacker that u pay the days u stay. If u wanna stay away from a flat, u hv 2 pay anyway!”

Sina – “Now you`re just insulting my intelligence. I know itz a flat. Im just saying you shouldn’t be complaining bkoz the biils would hav ben cheaper wen I was gone. My mum askt me 4 ur details bkoz she works 4 the government an she has the power 2 send u bak 2 brazil.”
Leandro – “Sina, I didn’t charge u the bills! If u didn’t use power, hot water n internet wasn’t because I didn’t provide u that. But cuz u chose 2 stay away. I wasn’t going 2 charge more if the bills were 10 times more than usually. Im not being rude! But u want to get more money anyhow n are trying all possibilities. I hope u understand now.

Sina – “im not now because I undastand but ur just being rude. Especially after you said you wanted to be my friend and now you`re talking to me like im an idiot.”
Leandro – “Im not doing that! That’s u who is now being mean! Do whatever u want 2 do! I didn’t do anything wrong! So if u want 2 talk 2 the tribunal, to ur mum or even the pope!!! I don’t care!"

Leandro – “And one more thing! The fact im not ur friend there is no realtion with money! But cuz I dnt feel like! And in a share accommodation im not obligate 2 get on with everyone, but respect, tho. So if u think I lied 2 hv said id be ur friend its nothing with the flat, bond, etc. However, if u still think I owe money, ive explained u everyth. Nothing else I can do. So if u try to do sth against me, just let me know, cuz I also know ppl from the government. And it would be bad 4 u as well who got money for studies and used it 4 parties. B4 do sth 4 smo, think abt ur bads!”
Sina – “Hahaha I just told u I undastand bwt the muni. U dnt no wat ur talking bwt. Like I said u dnt no me or anything bwt me so y dnt u do yourself a favour and leave me alone.”

Absurd

2009-10-16T07:56:00.003-03:00

Have a look how much a kg of lime cost here in New Zealand!!!

$22 New Zealand dollars!!! Absurd!!! In Real (Brazilian currency) it means almost R$28 !!

Could you imagine going to the market and the guy who says “Madam, limes R$ 1/kilo!!!” would say “Madam, limes are on sale today!!! R$ 28/kilo!!”

Bus drivers on Strike

2009-10-13T23:45:00.005-03:00

The bus drivers are still on Strike. Tomorrow will turn a week!!!! It is being so bad!!! And so expensive for me!!!

However, today the newspaper says: "Auckland buses due back on the road tomorrow". The news doens't say that is really sure, though.

I hope it happens!!! I can't stand it anymore.

By this issue, last week (on Saturday), happened a curious and almost bad thing. Owing to the strike, there is only a bus company operating each 30 min. After 6pm, only one bus per hour.

On Friday, I had finished work at 9.30 pm, so I could catch the last bus at 10pm. Nevertheless, on Saturday, even finishing earlier (9.15pm) I missed the last bus. Why? I don’t know. There were Leonardo (Uruguay), Primo (one of the Chef of the Wildfire), me and another guy, a kiwi, waiting for it, since 9.25pm for the 10pm bus.

At 9.50pm the digital timetable had informed the bus was due in 8 minutes. Six minutes later, when I looked again, the information disappeared. I thought so, the bus was coming late.

10 minutes later, nothing. 15 minutes, nothing. 20 minutes, nothing. However, 20 min later the bus from Auckland to Takapuna arrived there. So the kiwi guy and me went to ask him about the bus in the opposite direction (Takapuna-Auckland).

The driver said : "It's gone!! I saw it on my way to here". We said we were there for more than 40 min, and any bus had passed there. Well, without any information, the kiwi asked him where he was going to park the bus, if he was going to Birkenhead. At that moment, i don't know why the driver got really fed up! So he closed the door on me and said "I'm going home". I got off the bus as the door was closing on me. The driver opened it again and the kiwi got off too and was leaving when I did the international gest, absolutely pissed off:

Enough for the driver gets more angry and wants fight. Yeahhh.. the driver got offended and cursed at me. Many bad things! Mainly, calling for a fight. He got off the bus, took his jacket off and came to my direction while i was going back to the bus stop. Leo and Primo were sitting down, without knowing what was going on.

So i stopped in the middle of the road and wait till the driver comes. He came and said many things not important. And I said that he is a bus driver, a person supposed to help others, giving informations. Not to close the door in someone, as he did.

While he was leaving, he kept saying bad words and things like that.

No buses!! What could we do? Yesss.. everyone knows!! TAXI, there we go!!!

New Camera

2009-10-11T20:50:00.004-03:00

Yeahhh!!! Finally I bought a new camera!!! It was being so bad taking pictures from my mobile. It’s not the same!!!

Since I was in Australia I have been looking for a waterproof camera. But all of them were quite expensive that I couldn’t afford.

Nowadays, there are two brands which have waterproof cameras. Olympus and Fujifilm. The prices are really close, but I prefer Olympus, owing to I have already seen if from a friend.

Therefore, yesterday, sunny Sunday, I decided to buy it! It was a really nice day that I couldn’t wait anymore for buying it.

Have a look in some of the first pictures I have taken.

Viaduct Harbour - Very similar of the Darling Harbour in Sydney.

CARGO BAR!!! Uhuuuuu!!
Not so fun as in Sydney, though.

Sunday, sunny, new camera, beers!! Of course!!! I just had one, cuz I had to work, few minutes later. : (

Below, there are pictures of my new camera, from my mobile. Lol…

Next acquisition that I’m planning is a Hard Drive. I saw one with 1 TB of memory for $196!! Really cheap!!!

________________

Ps: I’m writing this post while I’m waiting to work at Wildfire. I’m at the Takapuna Beach.

Trips in New Zealand - Part 1: Searching

2009-10-11T08:04:00.001-03:00

These days I have been searching for places to visit in New Zealand as I’m planning to travel soon. How I had to stay in Takapuna waiting few hours between the two jobs I went to the Library to do my searches.

There are many ways to travel around all New Zealand:

- Buying a bus pass, which takes you to every place in the bus itinerary;
- To rent a car or a campervan/motorhome;
- Buying a car; and
- Buying flights over the main cities.

I haven’t decided yet which one I will do it. I did my budget plan thinking about buying a bus pass. It’s really expensive, though. Around $1500 for a month, traveling over all New Zealand.

This weekend, I had another idea. As I had seen on Internet, that there are Relocation transport*, for free or a very cheap fare, I thought about going to the South Island first and get a Motorhome. So I could travel for around one month paying $1/day for the Motorhome.

I looked on internet, how much would cost a flight to Christchurch (place where it has the relocation Motorhome). I found one, for $49 (one way). Still undecided, I didn’t know what to do. Anyway, I bought it. It was so cheap, that I couldn’t miss the opportunity.

Everything till now is just plans. But in a month later I will be traveling and no more work!! Enough of Hospitality jobs!!!

My plans consists of:

- Working till 14th of November;
- Traveling from 15th till 12th of December;
- Going back to Brazil on 14th of December; and
- On January … I will tell you when I have everything done!!! Still plans!! Lol..

My time around Oceania is finishing … I just have to say that I have been enjoying and learning a lot!! A lot of things is going to happen yet.

Job, Power and Transport

2009-10-11T06:34:00.002-03:00

As everybody knows, i had 3 jobs. Cleaning, Waiting and Volunteering. Due to a BLACK OUT in my flat this week, I wasn’t able to volunteer trying to fix it.

Yeah, we had no electricity for almost 3 days. It started last Sunday (0410), when we woke up and nothing was working. So, few hours later, after talk to the Company responsible for the power, it came back.

However, Monday morning, day to work it wasn’t working again. Can you imagine having a shower without light? The bathroom has no window. Are you afraid of a shower in the dark? Lol… At least the hot water was working.

Resuming, we didn’t have power until Tuesday afternoon. That´s why I had to miss the Volunteer Job this day. I had to call the owner of the flat, the power company, the manager of the Zest apartments, and when I thought we had to call a technician, the manager of the Zest came to fix it!! UFA!!

Afterwards, as I was called to work on Wednesday at Wildfire, I missed the volunteer job again. And more: I will be working everyday, 7 days a week, from the next week. And Monday to Saturday, cleaning.

Enough, right? I have volunteered for a short period, but anyway I did it.

Nevertheless, another problem has happened. Not happy with their salaries and due to School Holidays, the bus drivers are now on STRIKE!!! Yeah!! Did you think it happens only in Brazil? No way!!!

One thing I have to say. Opposite than Brazil, which you wake up and realize that there are no buses operating, one or two days before the strike, they announced it to everyone who was taking a bus. You see? First world!!! Lol.

Anyway, since Wednesday almost all companies are on strike and I have to catch another one which is more expensive! I hope tomorrow they re-start working. Or at least soon!!!

A lot of news coming up…

Flat news

2009-10-10T19:49:00.000-03:00

Well, the last weeks has happened many things in the flat.

First, as I became the manager, I had to find a new flatmate to move in instead of Rodrigo, the Chilean guy, because he had found a job in a backpacker in exchange for free accommodation.

After 2 weeks, exactly the time I had to find someone, a German girl, called Alex, moved in. She is very nice and would be good for me and Marcelo who could speak English with.

However, the flat suits 4 people. So the other person was the kiwi girl who has been living here for a month. She has done many things that I didn’t approve, but I hadn’t said anything to her.

Fair enough, in Alex second night, the kiwi exceeded the limit. Alex decided already to move out, due to Kiwi behavior*.

*it’s quite hard to explain her behavior in a post. But who has lived in share accommodation, can imagine.

So that, I had to do something, otherwise every week I would have to find a new flatmate. In this reason I kicked the kiwi girl out of the flat. Don’t think I’m mean. I gave her 2 weeks to move out. The same time I need to find someone else.

Since that day (03/10) I have been looking for 2 people. I have received some SMS from people interested in have a look, but it`s being hard, because I have no time to show it owing to I have been working a lot (next post will be about job news).

Anyway, yesterday a Brazilian guy, called Moab (weird ahn?), came to see the flat and decided to move in. I know, I know… it wasn’t supposed to have Portuguese speakers in the flat, but I have no choice. The time is almost over and I need people to move in, otherwise I would have to pay for it.

And today, a few people is coming to see the flat. Among them, 2 Brazilian girls and 2 guys, Mexican and Chilean. I hope one of them decide to move in.

Pray for me!!! Hehehe…

Random Facts

2009-09-30T07:10:00.004-03:00

Daily we encounter with some funny, weird, dangerous and curious things.

As this things don’t have any relation with my others posts I created this one to put all of them together.

So, starting from a common event for the Young people, who love parties and drinks, included me. Lol..

FACT 1

The picture below shows a guy “sleeping” on the floor. Why? I tried to ask, but he didn’t answer.

We noted this guy when Vini and I were going to the Brooklyn Bar, where the Brazilian band plays. We thought the guy might have got drunk and suddenly fell asleep on the floor. But later would wake up and go to bed. Well, it is what everyone thinks. But 4 hours later (I guess), when we came back home, the guy was still there. So we had to take a picture.

Not happy, and quite worried, we tried to wake his up, knocking the window and the door. Unsuccessfully, though. Afterwards, the next afternoon, when I woke up, I went to that flat to have a look if the guy was still there. He wasn’t. So I thought to myself: “Or he woke up, or someone noted his death”… (knock the wood!..hehehe)

FACT 2

Another fact, and still in the ZEST Apartments, building where I live, we had a very busy week in reason of the Fire Alarm. Vini had told me before the alarm of his apartment had rung once, when he was cooking. Nothing happened and it stopped after few minutes.

At that week, it happened daily, and not into the apartments. However, in the main alarm of the building, which means everyone has to leave the place.

First time, was a false alarm. Second one, I was already sleeping when a very loud alarm rung inside of my apartment saying we had to leave it. We didn’t leave, but we could see by the balcony and windows, a few people going downstairs. The Firemen come and stayed for a while. Nevertheless, nobody knew what was going on.

The day after, in the Elevator, a warning sparked our attention.

Therefore, the reason of the fire, was a cigarette thrown by the balcony that set on fire some clothes which were getting dried.

FACT 3

Now it is just a funny happening, when Rodrigo, Vini and I did the FREE Tour in Auckland. Same tour that I Bungy Jumped.

When we went up to the summit to have a great view of Auckland, the Kiwi guide had showed us a Cannon used during the 2nd World War (if I understood right). Then, we climbed the Cannon to come back to where we were.

Around the Cannon area, there was a fence. Everybody managed to jump it. Some girls used a stair in the back. But Vini no! He said: “Oh cool, will I have to jump it? Easy!” Lol … Well it’s not exactly what he said, but he jumped it.

It was funny. I wish I had a camera to video it. Anyway I could take a picture by my celphone.

Ps: Vini, it’s nothing personal. I’m just remembering you in my stories as you do in your blog. Hehehe… (If anybody wants to see what he says about me, or even his stories, his blog is: http://vini-away.blogspot.com/ - It is in Portuguese, though)

FACT 4

Weekly I have been going to the Library, for internet, books, newspaper, or just for waste my time when I have to stay in Takapuna waiting after a job to start the other.

Sometimes I try to sleep at the Beach, but these days the weather is bad, raining every single day. So I always get a book to read, and suddenly I fell asleep. In a bad position, of course, but nobody complain or wake me up. Good for relaxing a little bit before start working again.

Anyway, it’s not the reason I’m writing. The reason is that I found a Brazilian writer in the Library. Well, he is not a writer, actually. And not even good on words, and speech. Nevertheless, he wrote his Auto-biography, and it is available here, in English.

I haven’t read yet, but I may get it someday. Good for reading practice, and also to know about the life of our King of Soccer.

There he is:

For now that’s all. Next post will be about my jobs. Again!

Exhausted!!!

2009-09-23T03:32:00.008-03:00

Third day of the new crazy schedule, and I'm already EXHAUSTED!!

As I wrote before, I was trying to work for the Salvation Army, and sort a time out that I would be able to have all 3 jobs. So did I. I'm now working for 3 different companies and places.

First of all, follow the description of my 3 jobs, and then the new schedule:

1st Job
Passador at Wildfire (Takapuna) – Serving meats and running food.

You might be asking yourself what the hell is Passador? It is the guy in a “Churrascaria” who come over your table and ask : “Would you like some Picanha (Rump)?” or “Sausage, sir?”

2nd Job
Cleaner at Sentinel Building (Takapuna) – Vacuum and mop main areas, gym and bathrooms. Take the rubbish of all 28 levels.

Although It’s not a hard job, sometimes it is disgusting and disturbing.

3rd Job
Family Store Assistant at Salvation Army (Royal Oak) – As I started today, I don’t know which will be my duties. But, due to the busy day, I had to tidy all the messy in the store.

I think, it is the most reasonable job, where I can meet people, talk and improve my English, and help people.

So now, my new schedule:

Observations

1. The gray cells mean that i stay for around 4 hours in Takapuna, waiting till start working at Wildfire. At least at 4 pm i can come to Wildfire to have a Staff meal, for free.

2. The yellow ones mean I'm off, but I can receive a call from Wildfire asking to work.
_________________

Therefore, I'm expecting to work 50 hours a week. Thinking about the amount of hours is not much. Normal, actually. The problem is I’m working in different suburbs.

A fast explanation:

Takapuna (North) – City (Central) – Royal Oak (South)

Cleaning & Wildfire – Home – Salvation Army

Travel Distance and time take by bus:

City – Takapuna – 9 km, 20-25 min
City – Royal Oak – 11 km, 40 min

Daily, my travel takes in total around 2 hours, except on Thursdays, 3 hours.

And here is not due to the traffic jam. A reason that makes me start thinking about living or not in Sao Paulo again.

Well, that´s what I chose for myself. So, LET´S WORK!!!!

That was the news. I more exhausted now... Lol...

It's 8 pm and I'm going to bed ... Good Night!!!

Opportunities & Choices

2009-09-20T04:43:00.006-03:00

As I thought, once you know a quite good amount of people, your chance to have better opportunities increases!!

So, after almost 3 months here, it happened.

Since the beginning, I was looking for any job (Office, hospitality, cleaning, etc). After 2 weeks in Auckland, I got a job at Wildfire.

Then, I tried to find an office job, mainly. I offered myself to work for free in some of the opportunities I had searched on Internet, but none accepted it. Moving on, looking for another job in Hospitality, to make more money to travel, I went to many interviews. Unsuccessfully, though.

Therefore, as I was working 4 or 5 days a week at the Wildfire, only from 5 or 6 pm, without doing anything during the day. I decided so, to look for a NGO to become a volunteer. I made a contact with many NGO, as Auckland City Mission and The Salvation Army.

A person from The Salvation Army replied my email. Surprisingly, in Portuguese! Yes, a Brazilian girl who is working for The Salvation Army in Wellington contacted me. She gave me, some details from a person responsible in Auckland. After contact this person, I received an email saying that they needed someone to work instead a person who is on Holiday, in a Family Store. I have an appointment to talk to the manager of the store, this Tuesday (22/09).

Although, it seems I will work for The Salvation Army, which would be cool and important for my career, just before arrange the appointment with them, a guy from the Wildfire asked me if I knew someone who could work cleaning a building instead of him, because he has injuries in his foot. I told him at the same time that I wanted this job. The day after I went to see how was the job, and tomorrow I will start it.

What to do now? Work for The Salvation Army would be very good for my CV. And getting the other job, would be good to save money to travel before go back to Brazil.

Well, I’m trying to change the working hours in this new job to have the mornings free and also work for the Salvation Army. Anyway, Tuesday I will talk to the manger and see what we can manage.

Always like that!!! You can’t have whatever you want, whenever you want, however you want. But, "Life is made of choices" and you are the only responsible for that!

Auckland: Free Tour, Harbour Bridge & Bungy Jump

2009-09-15T00:39:00.027-03:00

As i knew since my first week in Auckland, there is a tour around the city, by Kiwi Experience, which is FREE.

I could have done it long time ago, by myself, with Mariana or someone else. But no, i did it this Tuesday (15/09/2009). I did it with Vini and Rodrigo, though.

The tour passed through the city, and then went to a "walk" in the Harbour Bridge, which conect the City to North Shore.

Afterwards, we went to Devonport, a very nice suburb, just next to Takapuna (where i work). However, i haven't gone there before. While the people of the tour went to have lunch, Vini, Marcelo and I, went to a pub, to have a beer. Hehehe... The weather was cool, sunny, so we could enjoy a cold beer. In addition, in a table outside of the pub, at the street, as we have in Brazil, and i miss it a lot!

Then we went to a summit, which had an amazing view to the city, Volcano Rangitoto, Harbour Bridge and etc.

Mushroom, Little Dunga and Me.

Little Dunga on the TOP of Volcano Rangitoto.

Photo of me, with the Auckland city as the background.

The tour doesn't seem interesting, unless the part of the beer. Nevertheless, there is a UNBELIEVABLE fact that happened. I met the woman of my life!! A Scotlish girl, PERFECT!!! Lol... Unfortunately, i have just picture of her back!!.. hehehe

Well, its true, but not the unbelievable fact.

Besides the walk in the Bridge, people who are doing the free tour, have the opportunity of Bungy Jumping for a cheaper price. So the guide asked before we start the walk if anybody would like to bungy jump. I said "maybe".

If you know me, you must be thinking if i was crazy, right? As i can't even ride in Rollercoasters. Hehehe... But no, i'm not crazy yet. Just becoming...

So, to start the walk, we had to grab a stuff like a belt, for security at the Bridge. (Vini had a few problems to put it on..hehehe)

Again, one of the guys who works in there, asked if anybody wanted to jump. Then i asked him, if i had to decided it there or i could decide up the Bridge. It was funny, cuz he said "You can decide there, but it is easier for us, if you decide it now". Already scarry i answered "Mate, i'm sorry, but i don't want to make it easier for you. But easier for me!" hahahah...

He gave me a different belt, that might be used for the Bungy Jump. Untill this time i hadn't paid anything. I was already in panic, though!

We started our walk in the Bridge, and quickly we got the Bungy Jump spot. It was closed!!! They opened it for me! And then asked to me "So, are you gonna jump?". I said embarassed "Hum... YEAH!! Why not???"

Feeling already in the heaven, i sat in a "chair" while they were setting up the equipments, cameras, and everything...

Everything was very fast! Vini and Rodrigo didn't stop video me, making jokes and bets!!! Suddenly, i heard : "Ok Leandro, let's go!!"

After that just watching the video. Check this out:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXuTtvHMm1s

I have to confess!! During the first fall i thought i was going to die!! I couldn't think in a different thing. But when the rope pulled me back i could breathe and i felt alive... after it, was cool!!! i liked the sensation!!!

What's next?

Around the city

2009-09-14T08:04:00.016-03:00

Last week, i saw curious things and new parts of Auckland. Because I wanted? Well, moreless…

I didn’t go there to know those places, but some because of interviews that i had, in different parts of the city.

It stats just in front of the Church, the same street as my building. A guy was playing that curious stuff, which i have know idea what is it called.

Walking at Queen St, i could see a small Rugby Field, being set up. I couldn't discover why it was for, though.

Afterwards, walking on the way to Mt. Eden, i could see a Cementery in a small park area, next to the streets, without any fence.

Following, I found a Motorway, which is similar of our famous "Marginal", without the traffic jam, OF COURSE!!!

Then, as i had heard before, THE POWER STATION. No, its not a place which control the Energy. Its a place for shows which is gonna have a famous Brazilian Band, playing next October. I thought it was said only for brazilians ...

... But not!! Just in front of The Power Station, an Ad with the info of the Brazilian Band, Natiruts' show.

And to complete a photo of me... Quite serious, hun???

Sunday, 6th of September

2009-09-06T09:56:00.014-03:00

Well, today seems like a common day. But here in New Zealand and Australia or Internationally (i don't know) it is Father's Day!!

So Daddy, Happy Father's Day!! Again... lol

As most of the Holidays in Oceania, people comemorate it at the beach. I could see many families with their boats, having a 'pic nic', coffee or ice cream, playing or just relaxing there.

It was in Takapuna, suburb where i work. As i got work earlier, i went to see the beach. Of course its incomparable with the beaches in Ozzy Land, but the weather was good, so i could take nice pictures.

There were as well a few guys, training, i guess. There was a kind of coach telling them to run from a side to the other.

Nice smile, hun??? Lol.. Its terrible to take pictures of yourself!!! Especially by the celphone!!

Differently of Xmas time, that all natives have a BBQ at the Beach, this time i just could see some brazilians. There were 4 or 5... Probably, just enjoying the score between Brazil and Argentina (3x1).

Sorry Argentineans!! Maradona only as a player!!

Today also had a Brazilian Festival for the 7th of September. However, i couldn't join it, cos' it was at the same time of work.

News are coming up ...

Fleas!!!!

2009-09-01T19:43:00.004-03:00

Few weeks ago, a friend of my ex flatmate came to the flat complaining that her house was full of fleas!!! So, to help her, as it says on Internet, we borrowed her our vacuum. She said later it seemed to work!!! Great!!

Few weeks later... here i am, at home... and guess??? Well.. i used the same vacuum to clean the house 2 times in 10 days. And suddenly, one morning i woke up with itches in my back. 2 days later in my back and my leg. And today, with itches in my back, my leg and my arm. Oh Goshhh!!!

On Internet, they say: After use the vacuum you may kill almost 100% of the fleas!!! OK, cool!!! But they don't say the fleas could be alive inside of the vacuum!!!

Now, i'm waiting for the new flatmate to move in... Nice reception!! She will sleep and wake up scratching her itches!!!! Lol...

I'm washing all the sheets and covers trying to kill our "new flatmates" who are trying to live without paying anything!! hahaha...

Partying ...

2009-08-30T04:45:00.014-03:00

Yesterday, as i had finished work at 9pm, i came home earlier than usual for a Saturday night. So, why not going out???

As i still had some beers, Vini and i had them to warm up. There were at home, Rodrigo, his friend and the "Little Old Great Grandmother" Marcelo, all chileans. And the Spanish neighbour was having a party with some other people there. Marcelo went to bed (that's why his nick name..lol). Rodrigo and his friend went to the neighbour. Vini and i went out.

So we went to Provedor and after a while the guys came with Judith, a mexican girl. (I must improve my spanish here!!! I'm around all kind of spanish speakers!!)

Well... as we had done the week before, we spent a time at Provedor, then Danny Doolan's and then back to Provedor.

A curious thing happened, though. I was waiting in the toilet queue and there were 2 or 3 peolple after me. When was my turn, a guy came from somewhere jumping the queue. So i told him, "where do you think you are going? respect the queue man!!!" So i got into the toilet and he came just behind and standed next to me, saying many things ... It was funny because we couldn't pee. Neither me, nor him!!! So he left and then i could. When i got out, he said "i want to talk to you". I thought he wanted to fight. But rather than it, he apologise and told me he was a manager of the bar. To complete, he paid me a Jägerbomb (Jägermeister with Red bul) for apologise him.

After beers, Jägerbomb, tequila (paid by the mexican girl)... i got quite "entonado"..hehe..

Coming back home, a stop at Burger King and then ... watch the video:

Remembering my time in Chile...

And how the Sunday is a non-stop raining day, i'm spending all day at home... Nice!! hehehe...

Finally a "Pagode"!!!

2009-08-30T04:09:00.003-03:00

As i have been away from the blog for a while, i will write some more post today!!..hehehe

Last week, a friend of Brazil and from PUC, Vinicius, arrived in New Zealand. So we met few times and i could give him some advices about food, places to stay, etc ...

Since he arrived, i have gone out too much. His fault!! Lol... No, seriously, i needed!!! So last week we went out on friday and the other days he just came to my place.

As he had paid for one week at Columbia's (same as me at the begining), he had to find a place to live. In my place a chilean guy was moving out, so we needed someone to move in instead. But Vini didn't want to live with brazilian. Good choice!! Because it is very bad for the English!!

Anyway, probably tomorrow is moving in a kiwi girl. So, Vini has been living here till he find a place and the new flatmate comes.

This week we finally found the "Pagode" in Auckland. Very close to the flat. So we went there to see how was it. The guys who play are good! And after few beers, of course i asked if i could play too. How the guy who was playing "cavaquinho" was left handed and the guy who was playing "pandeiro" seemed tired, i asked him. So i could play, but not for a long time, as the pandeiro was big! 10"!! Then, a guy friend of them, came to sing and play instead of me. But he couldn't play too much too... hehhe

When they started playing "samba enredo", Vini started playing "tamborim". It was cool!!!

Later, after finish the gig, we talked to the guys and next thursday we will come to play with them.

For the brazilian people who has lived in Australia: You don't believe who is manager of the band. MARCONI's cousin!!! MARCONI!!! hahahaha...

Australia is following me!!! Lol...

Wildfire: work, sing, funny ..

2009-08-30T03:03:00.006-03:00

From last week, i have started working now 4 shifts per week. Not much, but quite good hours. And finally i will get my payment, because the IRD number got ready!! So i will be paid for 6 weeks working. Wow!!!

Moving on, usually at Wildfire, we sing the "Parabéns pra você" (in portuguese) for everyone who is comemorating a birthday in the restaurant. So even the staffs who is not a portuguese speaker sing it in portuguese. Its funny how the do it, though.

Funnier was few days ago. Everyone gets a slice of cake for free in the "Parabéns". But there was a day, which it wasn't a Birthday, but instead a Bachelor Party (despedida de solteiro) for a woman who was going to marry. So, instead of the cake the chef did a special thing:

The picture is not that good, because it was taken from my celphone and really quick. Describing: There is a sausage, 2 meat balls and a bit of salad, which all together make a ... Ok, ok.. i don't have to say. Everybody knows... lol.

Oh!! i almost forgot, but on the top of the sausage there was a little bit of mayo .

In that table there were only women, of course! So when the D!CK came, all of them laugh! The point is, they imposed the girl to eat it!!!! And she did it!! lol..

On Fridays and Saturdays are boring. Many people go there for Birthdays. So we have to sing the "Parabéns" 4, 5, 6 ... X times at the same night.

And the searching for another job is still going ...

Life in New Zealand

2009-08-23T08:05:00.008-03:00

One month and half has gone!!

Many things has happened!!! Difficulty to explain... but after live a long time in 2 different places in my life i think i started to compair everything!!!

Brazil, Australia ... I miss many things from there!!!

Brazil ... family, friends, chopp, nightlife, samba, "petiscos"...

Australia... friends, nightlife, friends, quality of life, friends, my flat, friends, flatmates, friends....

In New Zealand is everything all right!! Same same, but different!!! I can't explain why... but its not the same!!! Maybe its because i'm not studying here, maybe because i miss people, maybe because ...

I know after i leave NZ i will probably say the same.. that i miss NZ, that i miss people here and everything the same... However, i think Australia was the BEST!!! There i could meet my sister that is not a blood sister, but i know its gonna be forever!!! whatever happens!!

In addition, many friends that i will take to my hole life!!! A life which i will not have anymore in my life, and everything from there!!! Everyone too!!! I miss it too much!!

People in Brazil... i miss you too!!! But because you are part of my history!!! I need you anyway!!! In Australia i have met people that i don't know when i will see them again... i hope soon.. but i can't tell exactly...

Anyway.. i'm enjoying New Zealand in my own way...

Reading recommendation

2009-08-14T22:08:00.011-03:00

After one month, finally i could finish a 337 pages book. It's not that big! It's in English, though.

The book was wrote by SYDNEY SHELDON, a very famous writer. And the book is ARE YOU AFRAID OF THE DARK?

I RECOMMEND!!!!

Flatmates: Love, Hate, Deal ...

2009-08-13T10:08:00.013-03:00

First of all, i would like to say that i miss so much Australia, and mainly my house and flatmates. Jana, Eneko, Mari, Dada, Margarita, Maria... i miss you guys!!! Our flat was the best!!!!! EVER!!!

Continuing... Live with people you don't know is really hard! Sometimes you meet amazing people, who you will keep in touch forever. Sometimes you meet people who you want to KILL or just don't get on with.

How to manage it??? That's a good question! Life overseas is not only nice places, nice people, nice experiences. It's also bad experiences, bad people, bad places, bad jobs, etc...

Although everything can be bad, you have the option to change it. How? Moving the house, changing the job, meeting new people, and many other things.

Differently of family that you can't change, they will be always relatives, you can choose your friends and people who you stay with.

So... concluding, we are the only responsible for everything around us. If you are not happy, MOVE ON!!!

One more week

2009-08-12T04:12:00.003-03:00

One more week went by ... and nothing special has happened!!!

I worked 4 days last week, but i'm still rostered in 3 days only. However, everyday i work, i come ealier to have a staff meal before starting working. So i can safe money and food. Lol..

My exercise is giving good results and ive already lost weight. I started running 3 km a day, and this week moved on 4 km.

Today, i went to another interview to work in a cafe. I hope i can be called for a trial. Also today, a new flatmate moved in. Another chilean guy! He will live instead of the argentinean girl. She will move out only on Tuesday, though.

After many days without drinking or going for a party, today i'm going to a Samba!! I heard about a bar just a block from my house which a brazilian band plays samba. I'm coming to see how it is and maybe i could join them.

Now i'm at home with my flatmates, having a beer to warm up for the night!!! Let´s see ...

Last news ...

2009-08-04T19:06:00.003-03:00

Back from Queenstown, nothing special has happened!

Friday and Saturday night i worked and Sunday just stayed at home.

On Monday, i didn't know which days i was supposed to work, so i went to Wildfire. Expecting i was going to work at least, 4 or 5 days, the manager kept the 3 days i had worked the week before. Which is Monday, Friday and Saturday.

Three days a week is not enough to survive in Auckland. I can pay just the rent with the salary. So since that day, i started to look for another job. Focus in a office job.

Besides that, i have started doing exercise at the gym of the building where i live. I hope i can loose the weight i had gained in Brazil. Lol...

Up till now that's all!!

Queenstown - South Island

2009-07-31T07:26:00.003-03:00

The trip started on Tuesday, 28th of July.

From Auckland, Mariana and I flew to Queenstown, South Island of New Zealand. We arrived around 12pm and then went to the city and had Mc Donald`s for lunch, cos we were starving. Afterwards, we walked around the city to find a Backpacker to stay. So we found YHA and BASE. The BASE was cheaper!

As everyone who comes to New Zealand or to the South Island knows, Queenstown is consider the city of Extreme Sports, mainly BUNGY JUMP.

How Mariana was thinking about jumping, we asked some information in the BASE Travel.

There were 3 options of Bungy Jumps: 43 meters which you can touch the water (river); 47 meters that you can jump at night and see all the city; and the most famous, the highest in New Zealand, Nevis Bungy, which is 134 meters high.

I`m really sure that i can`t do it no matter what. I guess i could die before getting to the end, just during the jump, by heart attack. So, i asked informations about doing snowboarding, what i have done twice in my life and i`m not scary!! lol..

Mari was undecided, so we walked around the city, which was really small. So it didn't take long. We went up to the Mount by Gondola, and ride down by Luge.

As the BASE Travel closes at 7.30 pm we had to decide what we were going to do the day after to make the booking.

Still undecided, we just booked to go up to the Remarkable Ski Station. We had a really nice Wednesday. I thought the begining was going to be hard, but i didn`t even fall down during the practice. Mari had some difficult and many tumbles.

After practicing, i went by lift to the top of the Mountain where i had an amazing view and i could have a really nice ride down.

Back to the backpacker, Mari had till 8pm to decide if she was going to jump or not. How i was tired, i slept during this time she had to make the decision. Suddenly, she woke me up saying that she had bought the pass for the 134m Bungy Jump. How i wanted to see this crazy fact i bought a watching pass.

Thursday, day for the Mari`s jump!!! 9 am, time to wake up! We had breakfast and went to the station to get the bus. She met some brazilians the night before and one of the guys said he was going to jump if it was still available. It was! So Thiago and Mariana were the jumpers! Me? Just an expectator and camera man! Lol...

On the way, Thiago was really sure about his decision. However, Mari was all the time saying she was going to give up. Once we got the place, she was definately sure to give up!

Before Mariana there were a few people, including a guy who jumped once, and as he liked, jumped again. Thiago was one of the first ones. When he was ready to jump, the instructor count 3, 2, 1 ... and he pretended to jump but came back and then jumped. When he got back he encorageus Mariana saying it had been nice!!!

Anyway, Mariana was completely scaried!!!

When the instructor called: "Mariana?". Then, she sat down in a chair, which seemed the chair in a Dentist, to put the stuffs in her feet. Shaking her legs, absolutely afraid, she droped the chair and went to the spot to jump. After the counting, she closed her eyes and jumped. I couldn`t believe. She was down there!! 134 meters down!!! Crazy!!!

Once she got up, she was quite dizziness, but all right!! She said "Totally crazy!! I just closed my eyes and jumped!! Never more in my life!!!"

Back to the Backpacker, we get changed and went to the bar to have some beers, as it was her last night in Queenstown, in New Zealand and in Oceania.

After that, we went to bed.

Friday: day to pack everything and go back to Auckland. Already in Auckland we went back to my house to get her stuffs. Packed i went down with her to get the shuttle to the airport!!

One more goodbye to her ... I will miss you, my sister!!!

Moving and working !!

2009-07-22T08:55:00.004-03:00

Lot of things to do this day.

First of all, i had to move again. Not to a backpacker, but to an apartment. In the apartment live 2 chilean guys and one argentinean girl. They are all nice!! Before moving, i had dinner with them on Tuesday, and could also sepak a little of Spanish, cos the Chilean guys don't speak English well.

After moving and organizing all my stuffs, i had to buy a shirt for a Trial in a Brazilian Restaurant, Wildfire Churrascaria. So i bought it and went to the restaurant. After 3 hours working as a Passador, i could leave and was told that i got the job and could come back on Saturday!! Finally!!!

Although it was a Brazilian restaurant as Taste of Brazil in Australia, there weren't only brazilians working. There are people from South Africa, England, France, New Zealand, etc, Which is nice for the English.

After it, i just went to the swimming pool of the building where i live, with some beers, just to relax, while the Chilean were at the gym.

Busy day

2009-07-18T08:14:00.013-03:00

I just woke up late. Even sleeping early the night before. But when i got out of my room i saw a very nice whether. Sunny!! So i had breakfast and thought about going somewhere different, just because until that time i had gone anywhere out of the city.

I took some stuffs, as one more jacket, a book, pringles, water, and thought about going to Mission Bay, kind of beach ... When i left the backpacker, started raining. I talked to myself "Go or not?". Then i said "Yes", cos if i don`t go today, i will go never.

I took the Bus at Britomart Station and 10 min later i was already in Mission Bay. Nothing special!!! Some shops, and a really small beach, no waves. The only nice thing there, was the Fountain.

Looking at the map i realized that there were another two "beaches" just next to Mission Bay. Kohimarama Beach and St Heliers Bay. Both the same as Mission Bay. But the first one was just residential place.

Disappointed and missing the beaches from Sydney i came back to the Backpacker.

There i saw and ad: "Flatmate WANTED". I read the ad and it appealed to me. I saved the phone number and went to the room. I relaxed a little while i was waiting for the American guy to call me to watch the gama ALL BLACKS vs. Australia ... Soccer? No!! RUGBY!! lol... But we were going to a bar.

Nothing to do, i sent a SMS to the girl who wanted a Flatmate. And i made an appointment to have a look in the apartment. So i went there, and i liked. Next Wednesday one more moving!!!

Then, i left there and i saw some people wearing clothes of All blacks and Australia. I started to follow them, and there were going to the stadium by train, departing from Britomart Station. Following them i got into the Kingsland station, where is located the EDEN PARK, where the game was. I went to the counter and it was sold out. No more tickets!!!

I thought: "Where are the CAMBISTAS*??"

*People who buy tickets before the game to sell them much more expensive than they are.

Suddenly, i saw one guy selling tickets. How much??? $100 bucks!! This guy was a Cambista!!The normal price was $50!!

Walking a little bit more, i found two guys selling their friends, who didn`t come, for the same price. I bought it for $50!

So i got in... as i have watched a Rugby match, there is nothing special. The only good fact is that they sell beers inside of the Stadium. I stayed there, drinking to keep warm, because was totally freezing, and taking some pictures by my cel phone.

Resuming the game, Australia started winning for 10x0, but All Blacks changed the score and won for 22x16 (I guess!! I couldn`t see very well the placar, as it was really small.)

Waiter or Vice-president???

2009-07-15T23:14:00.001-03:00

Day which i had one more interview for waiter position, in one of the restaurants of the biggest Company in Hospitality of Auckland, and may be in New Zealand, which has: Cassinos, Cinemas, Sky Tower, Cafes, Pubs, etc. = SKY CITY.

How was it? Oh... i felt i was being interviewed for a vice-president position in a Mutinational Company. Why?

There were two women: one of them was the manager of the Spanish restaurant called Bellota, where the position was available. The other one was just an office person, responsible for documents, appointments, etc, and crazy questions. Lol..

It starts as usual:

"Why did you come to New Zealand?"
"What do you intend to do here?"
"How you have a Working Holiday visa, are you planing to travel soon?"

These questions were ok... No worries!!

However, they started asking questions as:

"If you split wine in a customer, what would you do?"
"What do you consider an excellent service in a restaurant?"
"If an intoxicated person ask you for another alcoholic drink, what would you do?"
"Different than Australians, New Zealands people speak too fast. What would you do if you don`t undestand what they said?"

Ok.. these ones were just about know how you work. When it changed, and i felt being interviewed for a very important position:

"What would your last boss tell about you?"
"What do you think your best friend thinks about you?"

At that time, i was waiting for next: "What does your mother think about you?"

There were some other crazy questions that i don`t remember anymore...

My question is:

To be a waiter anywhere, do we need to have good explanations for how to do it, or just know it very well in practice???

Moving out, moving in ...

2009-07-15T06:36:00.015-03:00

Wednesday ... Last day at the Hostel where i had made a booking. I could extend it, but too expensive. I can't afford!!

So, after many quotes in all Backpackers of the city, i decided for the Queen Street Backpackers. Moving into a 6 beds room. However, there is only a English guy who is leaving tomorrow. Probably i will be myself for a couple days.

I tried to find one where i could work for accomodation. One of them, Surf 'n' Soul is looking for someone. I'm waiting for their contact, though.

Nothing else than sleep, cook, watch a movie, i have done today...

But yesterday, i went out with my room mate of the Columbia Hostel. The american guy and i had some beers and talked about life.

When we were going back to the Hostel, he met some of his american friends (girsl and guys) who were already drunk and going to a club. Then, we went with them.

There, many other beers... When i realized i had spent $60. To complete the night after the club i stopped at Burguer King and had a Double Whopper meal. Ohhh Gosh!!!

At this morning i could see that i got a bit drunk...

Tomorrow, another job interview !! Let's see what happen!!

Ps: I'm now, since yesterday with a terrible stiff neck!!! Massage??? lol...

Monday: Day to start everything!!!

2009-07-12T17:55:00.003-03:00

Today is Monday.. 9 am. Time to get out of room and try to get a job!

I think today is the day. Its sunny and not so cold (7 degrees).

Yesterday i made a schedule for the week. Every day in a different area i will have to deliver my CV.

I already have 2 expectations: first one, i received a call from one of my applications by internet, to come for an interview on friday. The job? Waiter in a Cafe; second one, i have talked to a brazilian girl which is going to work in a Vineyard picking fruits. The job is hard! But its a good way to save money. So, i`m waiting for the owner of the house to tell me if is there a place for me.

Meanwhile, i will try to find other jobs. Today i will try as much as i can in the city area and Parnell Rd. And also some backpakers, to get a job for accomodation, which is really easy. Just cleaning 1 or 2 hours a day.

I hope i can get something quickly, otherwise i can start being a homeless..lol..

My last alternative is playing cavaquinho at the street. Maybe i can do it with some Maoris playing Ukulele.

Bureaucracy = Brazil or New Zealand???

2009-07-12T07:20:00.003-03:00

It`s hard to match this word Bureaucracy with Developed Countries (First World). It`s common to listen all about this term in Developing Countries (Third World).

However, it`s not what happened to me. To work in New Zealand is necessary to have a correct visa and an IRD number, which is not more than a number for an employer to pay the TAX of your income salary. OK! No problem. Every country you need to provide it.

That`s the point!! To apply for it you need (when a foreign person):

- Complete the application form (OK!!)
- Passport (OK!!)
- Other I.D. (WHY??? My Passport is not enough??)

This I.D. could be:

a Driver Licence. If overseas it must be translated.
New Zealand Student photo identification. Impossible!!
18+ card = Proof of Majority. OK.. lets get one of this.
Others... not aplicable.

To get this 18+ card, you need:

Passport
Passport Photo
Proof of Address
Complete the application form
Pay $20
AND = Have the application signed by an authorised witness*.

*What a hell is witness? Google Translator said: Testemunha (in portuguese).

Besides you need all this documents just to prove your are over 18, this WITNESS can`t be anyone. You must mark an appoitment in a Justice of Peace for NZ to have this formulary complete.

Done? Not yet... Only this 18+ card takes from 2 to 3 weeks to be ready. And the IRD one more week.

HOW DIFFICULTY IS TO GIVE US A SIMPLE NUMBER????

I felt i was in Brazil at Poupatempo line or in a "Cartório" (para reconhecer firma).

I already miss Australia... it was so easy. Online, in 3 min, you have already a Pre-TAX number that you can use until receive a letter with the real one.

Resuming... at least 3 weeks to get this IRD number. Whilst it doesn't happen.. let's find a job!!!

New Zealand... new challenge!

2009-07-09T21:59:00.003-03:00

The begining wasn't so good!! Why? Lets summarise:

It starts on 6th of July, during the travel from Brazil to New Zealand. I had a VERY NICE neighbour which was next to my seat and didnt stop moving any time. I was really sleepy and every single minute she woke me up with her movents. Anyway i could sleep most of the trip.

However, a really bad thing happend during this travel. I have no idea where and how, but i could loose my camera!! Ok, it is just a camera, i can buy a new one. But not!! It had all my photos from my farewell party, including the BBQ and Vila Country's. My pray is that the air company find it!!

Thirdly. Although i already knew it was going to happen, it is a really boring situation. How i arrived in Auckland on 8th of July at 4 am, i had to wait till the Hostel, where i had a booking, open. It opens at 6 am, and the check in is at 2 pm, though. So, i slept at the airport from 4 till 8 pm. Thinking that the room could be available at 10 am, i woke up at 8h30, had breakfast and got a taxi, which cost miserable $75!!! Then, already in the Hostel, they said my booking was a request, and not a booking. So it wasnt available. However, after few minutes without stress they said they had a room available for me. Nevertheless, i had to wait till 2 pm to do the check in.

Ok.. after that i just walked for 3.30hs around Auckland, which is not so big and made this time useful doing what i had to do, as open a bank account and buying a NZ cel phone. Ah! This cel phone has a camera. Not as my last one, but it helps in the begining!

Almost done, the cel phone i had bought had some problems... So i had to go back to the store to change it.

Back to the Hostel, i made Spaghetti a bolognese for lunch/dinner and then slept!!!

It was the begining...