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Career breake 2024-2025
  • Martina Bukowska
  • Maciek Cieslik
  • Martina Bukowska
  • Maciek Cieslik

Career breake 2024-2025

A 218-day adventure by Martina & Maciek Read more
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  • Career breake 2024-2025

    Last Day in Vientiane, Goodbye Lao!

    December 15, 2024 in Laos ⋅ ☀️ 25 °C

    We dedicated our last day in Laos’ capital to catching up on work and planning our next adventure. In the evening, we couldn’t resist one last visit to the night market, soaking up the lively atmosphere one more time.

    This time, we tried some new flavors: the infamous stinky tofu — a black, fermented Korean delicacy with a strong smell but surprisingly rich taste — and the iconic durian fruit, known for its intense aroma but delicious creamy texture. A bold and tasty way to end our time in Vientiane!    Read more

  • Career breake 2024-2025

    Trip to Myanmar 🇲🇲

    December 16, 2024 in Myanmar ⋅ ☀️ 22 °C

    Arriving (with stop in Bangkok Airport) in Burma was a bit stressful for us due to the political situation, the country has been gripped by a civil war since the overthrow of the democratically elected government by the military junta... and indeed there are few tourists here, the streets are dark because of the lack of electricity but the inhabitants are exceptionally friendly, in the restaurant we went to we were served by 5 waiters at once:)Read more

  • Career breake 2024-2025
    Thilashin

    🛕Minglaba Mandalay!

    December 17, 2024 in Myanmar ⋅ 🌙 18 °C

    Minglaba means "good day" in Burmese, and our first day in Mandalay was a very good one! We heard from everyone that tourists in this country are not allowed to ride scooters and that no one would rent us one - nothing could be further from the truth - after only an hour of searching we were already on our own means of transport🛵!We started exploring the city from its surroundings - we went on a trip to Tuang Tha Man Lake with a beautiful wooden bridge (U Bein Bridge) which was built in 1850 and is believed to be the oldest and longest teakwood bridge in the world! We met several members of the nun order (girl monk) - Thilashin - who dress in pink with an orange shawl🥰. Then we went to Inn Wa - this ancient city, is home to stunning centuries-old royal palaces and Buddhist monasteries (like the incredible Bagaya Monastery built in 1782 entirely of black teak wood - the building is supported on 267 teak posts (the highest posts are 19 metres high)). On our way home we stopped at a restaurant for dinner and as soon as we entered again we were surrounded by several waiters, when we were sitting down on the table a lot of food started to appear that we hadn't ordered (we didn't have time) - but everything was delicious, Burmese cuisine is something between Thai and Indian but actually not similar to either. After leaving the restaurant we were shocked because the scooter parked on the other side of the street disappeared! But it quickly turned out that the restaurant staff had moved it to the restaurant so that we could be closer :) considering that we were the only (literally the only) tourists here, we felt a bit watched, we didn't even know how they knew where we had parked the scooter🤨Read more

  • Career breake 2024-2025
    Buying tickets 🎫

    👑 King Mindon

    December 19, 2024 in Myanmar ⋅ ☀️ 28 °C

    Mandalay is the last Burmese royal capital, located on the banks of the Irrawaddy River at the foot of Mandalay Hill. An important figure in the history of this city was King Mindon, at whose request the city was founded. He made it the capital of the country. King Mindon built many beautiful buildings in the city, two of which are particularly noteworthy:

    🛕Kuthodaw Pagoda : a beautiful temple that houses the largest iron Buddha image in all of Burma, along with 1,774 slabs with commentaries on the Tipitaka, or Buddhist teachings. Peace, quiet, does anyone even look here? And it's definitely worth it. Hundreds of identical white chapels create an amazing picture, it's in them that marble slabs with extraordinary texts are located. This collection of teachings is also called the Pali Canon, because it was written in that language.

    🛕Shwenandaw Kyaung Monastery: The monastery is built of teak wood, and the amount of wooden details is dizzying and testifies to the masterful passion of the sculptors. The monastery once stood on the grounds of the Royal Palace. King Mindon, lived in this building and then died. His successor decided that it was not a place for such a building and ordered it to be moved outside the palace walls. In this way, he saved this work of art from destruction during the war, which the entire palace complex was destroyed by.

    The teak wood from which the monastery was built is extremely durable, water-resistant, and valued worldwide. Burma accounts for about one-third of the world's total teak production. Despite sanctions, the exclusive wood, teak, is shipped (including through Polish ports) to Europe. Profits from the trade support the brutal regime in Myanmar.    Read more

  • Career breake 2024-2025

    Ordinary street life in Myanmar

    December 20, 2024 in Myanmar ⋅ ☀️ 29 °C

    Traveling through Burma (Myanmar) feels like stepping into a world that is both vibrant and tranquil. Despite a population similar to Poland’s, its vast landscape ensures there’s plenty of room, making the streets relatively quiet - especially at night when electricity is often cut off. With tourism at a standstill due to the civil war, visitors are a rare sight. This rarity made our presence a source of fascination; locals greeted us with smiles, waves, and friendly chats. However, their reserved nature often saw them shy away when we tried to engage further.

    Burma’s roadsides are alive with activity. From bustling soup kitchens and makeshift workshops to improvised factories and family spaces, these areas serve as hubs for both work and leisure. During breaks, locals nap, play Chinlone 🤾‍♀️ (cane ball), or spend time with their children right there on the pavement. Despite the dust and noise, cleanliness is a priority, with sweeping a daily ritual for every household.

    Traffic rules (or lack thereof!)
    Navigating traffic is an adventure: size determines priority, with larger vehicles dominating the roads🚛. For pedestrians? Crossing is a gamble best avoided!🫣

    Cultural snapshot:
    > Attire: the traditional Longyi is worn by both men and women, adding a graceful touch to everyday life.
    > Betel chewing: a common habit among men, leaving their teeth stained red.
    > Thanaka: women and children apply this natural face mask for sun protection and insect repellent.

    A land marked by struggle
    Signs of the country’s political turmoil are evident, with barricades and barbed wire guarding key locations. These reminders of unrest contrast sharply with the warmth and resilience of the Burmese people.

    Visiting Burma was a bold decision, but one I’ll never regret. Without the usual crowds of tourists, the experience felt authentic and deeply personal—an unforgettable glimpse into a land of resilience, tradition, and beauty.    Read more

  • Career breake 2024-2025

    🛶 Inle Lake

    December 21, 2024 in Myanmar ⋅ ☁️ 23 °C

    260 km from Mandalay is Inle Lake, the journey to it took us 10 hours by bus! Why so long? Because of the poor roads (but still better than in Laos😏) and military checks along the way.
    Inle Lake is located 1,328 meters above sea level. It is vast and shallow and surrounded by mountains on all sides. Its charm lies in the unique villages that seem to float atop its surface. Houses, schools, temples, and shops all stand on stilts, with boats 🛶 replacing bicycles as the primary mode of transport. The canals connecting these villages add to the magical, Venice-like vibe.

    The locals are very friendly, surprisingly many of them spoke English, we had some time to chat - not only about their lives but also about the civil war and the great flood that had hit them a few months ago - but despite these inconveniences they were very smiley and curious about the newcomers.

    The lake's inhabitants are known for their unique way of propelling their boats. Standing on the stern of their flat-bottomed boats, they use one leg to row while balancing with the other, creating a rhythmic, mesmerizing motion. Their skill in fishing from these boats is equally impressive.🐟.

    Our tour also took us to a textile factory, where women weave patterned materials in hand-made looms. It takes them about 20 days to weave material for a monk's robe. We also met a woman with a long neck - a member of Kayan people.

    The area has already seen its heyday but is still ready to welcome many tourists - but there are none - we’ve met only two groups of Chinese (yes - they were wearing life jackets🦺).    Read more

  • Career breake 2024-2025

    🌚 Darkness in Nyaungshwe

    December 22, 2024 in Myanmar ⋅ ⛅ 24 °C

    In Burma (Myanmar), the country falls into darkness after sunset. From what I've heard, there have been power outages for many years, but the problem has worsened since the military junta's coup in 2021. There is only one coal-fired power plant and several hydroelectric power plants in the entire country, but due to the lack of investment in infrastructure and the ever-increasing demand for energy, there is simply not enough electricity. As a result, most of the evenings and nights the country falls into darkness. Some shops and pubs have huge and loud power generators, but the rest of the residents are left with candles 🕯️.

    The lack of light also means that the streets empty out after dark - the photos I'm posting are from an evening walk around Nyaungshwe (7 p.m.)    Read more

  • Career breake 2024-2025

    🎄Christmas in Bagan

    Dec 25–28, 2024 in Myanmar ⋅ ☀️ 29 °C

    We spent Christmas 🎅🏻 in Bagan, with the hostel pool playing a significant role in that decision. Since Myanmar is a Buddhist country, we didn’t expect much in the way of holiday celebrations. To our surprise, we found ourselves in the middle of a massive festive event! Every year, locals from all over Myanmar flock to Bagan to take part in its famous parade.

    The parade is a colorful spectacle featuring a long procession of beautifully decorated carriages pulled by horses and buffaloes. Women and girls in traditional attire, men dressed as warriors, and even elaborately adorned elephants 🐘join the procession, all accompanied by deafening local music that fills the air with energy.

    The celebrations don’t stop there. After the parade, the night is alive with concerts and comedic performances.
    Experiencing Christmas like this in Bagan was completely unexpected and fun 🙂.    Read more

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    Kanchanaburi vibes before moving on

    January 5, 2025 in Thailand ⋅ ☀️ 23 °C

    Kanchanaburi turned out to be a city of contrasts. Known for its rich history, it also offers glimpses into some of Thailand’s more complex realities. One of the striking things about the streets here was the presence of older Western men accompanied by much younger Thai women – a reminder of the shadow of sex tourism that still lingers in parts of the country.

    Exploring the area by motorbike led to Wat Tham Suea, also called the Tiger Cave Temple. Perched on a hill, this unique place combines traditional Thai and Chinese influences in its architecture, with a massive golden Buddha towering over the landscape. The views from the top made the ride well worth it.

    We also came across local cemeteries, which in Thailand are often serene and thoughtfully designed. Graves here are marked by small, beautiful mounds and are tied to Buddhist traditions of respect and remembrance for ancestors.

    With this trip, we’re saying goodbye to Thailand and heading onward to our next destination – Indonesia!    Read more

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    Temples in Ubud, rice fields and friends

    January 6, 2025 in Indonesia ⋅ 🌧 28 °C

    Just landed on Bali and made our way to Ubud - and what a welcome it’s been! We reunited with Aśka and Kama who are on a journey through Australia and Tasmania, and it’s amazing to share this adventure with such a great crew.

    Bali has already stolen my heart. The atmosphere here is magical: ancient temples covered in soft moss, lush green rice fields stretching endlessly, and a vibe that feels so great. Every corner of Ubud seems like it’s out of a dream.

    Being here, with these views and this group, feels like exactly where we’re meant to be.    Read more

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    MaciekMe & Maciek1

    🌋 Volcano Mt Batur sunrise trek

    January 8, 2025 in Indonesia ⋅ 🌩️ 18 °C

    A sunrise trek to Mount Batur (1717 m) was an unforgettable adventure. This still-active volcano, last erupting in 2000, offered a challenging yet rewarding climb. Our day started at 2 am with a 1.5-hour drive, followed by a hike under the glow of headlamps. The rocky path of volcanic terrain set the tone for a true adventure.

    From the top, the view was breathtaking – Lake Batur, shrouded in morning mist, stretched out below us. Along the way, we stopped for breakfast (and cup of hot chocolate), surrounded by the steam rising from the crater’s vents. At the summit, long-tailed macaques were everywhere, curious as ever, stealing snacks and adding a touch of playfulness to the moment.

    Despite it being rainy season, we were lucky to have perfect weather, making the entire trek even more magical.

    After the trek, we spent the rest of the day relaxing by the pool in the garden of our villa, which is absolutely stunning.    Read more

  • Career breake 2024-2025

    A deep breath in Bali 🌱

    Jan 11–15, 2025 in Indonesia ⋅ ☁️ 25 °C

    The last few days on the island have been spent working, preparing for the trip to New Zealand, swimming in the pool, and enjoying good food.

    The most meaningful part for me was completing a Balinese massage course, something I’ve always wanted to do. Last day Maciek surprised me with a trip to the waterfalls, including Goa Rang Reng, which we had all to ourselves. As a farewell, we treated ourselves to one last massage.

    True to Bali style, we said goodbye in the rain – no rain, no rainbow, as they say. We’ll miss Ubud and its lush greenery, but it’s time to move on to New Zealand. 🫡    Read more

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    🇳🇿New Zealand 🇳🇿

    January 16, 2025 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 22 °C

    Finally made it to New Zealand - a dream destination for so long. We picked up a minicampervan that will be our little home on wheels for the next two weeks. First stop? The iconic That Wānaka Tree. To get there, we drove the Crown Range Road – New Zealand’s highest main road, full of winding curves and incredible mountain views. Once we arrived, we had a quiet picnic on the lakeside beach and wrapped up the day with a short hike on the Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain trails, taking in stunning views over Lake Wānaka.

    The plan is to travel from the South Island to the North Island - just taking it slow and soaking in everything this incredible country has to offer. Can’t wait to see what’s next.    Read more

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    Fiordland

    January 17, 2025 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 19 °C

    First night in campervan was nice, and morning with river view brilliant 🤩.
    That day we made our way to Milford Sound, driving through some of the most unique landscapes we’ve ever seen. Maciek wasn’t feeling well (his ear was acting up), so I drove part of the way. Even with the challenge of left-hand traffic, I enjoyed the experience, and the views made it all worth it.

    The forests along the way, especially near Lake Mistletoe, felt ancient – trees coated in thick layers of moss and ferns growing everywhere. These temperate rainforests are some of the most untouched in the world, shaped by thousands of years of isolation.

    Milford Sound itself was striking in a quiet, humbling way. Towering cliffs rise up to 1,200 meters straight from the water, carved out by glaciers long ago. Waterfalls cascade down their sides, fed by constant rainfall – some barely reach the bottom before disappearing into mist. It’s easy to see why this place is often called the “eighth wonder of the world.

    New Zealand’s isolation has created a fascinating ecosystem. Its native animals are mostly birds, reptiles, and insects, while the only native mammals are two species of bats. The endemic nature of New Zealand’s flora and fauna is one of its defining features. Over 80% of the plants and animals here exist nowhere else on Earth.

    We ended the day with a simple dinner 🍲 overlooking the valley before settling in for the night at The Divide campsite.    Read more

  • Career breake 2024-2025
    1

    Key Summit Trail & avocado hand 🥑

    January 18, 2025 in New Zealand ⋅ 🌙 13 °C

    Enchanted by the beautiful landscapes on our way to Milford Sound, we decided to dive deeper and set off on the Key Summit Trail.

    The trail wound its way through ancient forests, where towering trees were cloaked in thick layers of moss. The lush greenery isn’t just picturesque – the moss thrives in the high humidity and abundant rainfall typical of Fiordland.

    At the summit, we were rewarded with tiny alpine tarns (small glacial lakes) scattered across the landscape and enjoyed incredible 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

    After soaking in the views, we descended the trail and stopped for breakfast near the Hollyford River. That’s when things took an unexpected turn. While slicing an avocado and trying to remove the pit with a knife, I made the (painful) mistake of stabbing myself deeply in the palm of my hand 🖐️.

    Thankfully, Maciek stayed calm, quickly patched me up, and we managed to finish our riverside breakfast before continuing south. I knew right away that the wound needed stitches, so we made a detour to the Southland Hospital in Invercargill. There, we got a number for the ER queue, squeezed in a quick shopping trip (despite the massive lines), and waited patiently. Just before midnight, a lovely nurse finally stitched me up, ensuring my hand was back on the mend.

    For the next two weeks, I’ll have to avoid using my left hand and skip baths – a bit inconvenient for van life, but I’m incredibly grateful that the injury wasn’t worse. No nerves were damaged, and we can keep exploring this beautiful country, albeit a bit more carefully!    Read more

  • Career breake 2024-2025

    At the edge of the world 🌏 (Bluff) 🔚

    January 19, 2025 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 13 °C

    We started the day with breakfast overlooking the Pacific Ocean at Bluff Hill Lookout. Afterward, we followed a trail down to New Zealand’s southernmost point, walking through low, wind-shaped inaka trees (Dracophyllum longifolium) and patches of red pōhutukawa flowers that brightened the path.

    The ocean was calm, and we couldn’t resist sitting down for a nap - it turned out to be one of the best. The climb back up was tough but gave us more time to soak in the views.

    Driving north, we passed endless sheep pastures and stopped at Nugget Point. The cliffs there were stunning, and the sea lions below added their wild calls to the scene. Nearby, a hidden penguin-viewing bunker showed how much care New Zealanders put into protecting wildlife. Sadly, despite these efforts, fishing practices are making penguins like the hoiho harder to find.

    The day ended under a sky full of starsnear the beach after Maciek’s delicious dinner. A peaceful finish to a day we’ll always remember.    Read more

  • Career breake 2024-2025

    End of the Southern Scenic Route

    January 20, 2025 in New Zealand ⋅ ☀️ 19 °C

    Today we visited Dunedin, a city founded by Scottish settlers in 1848, known for its beautiful Victorian architecture and its laid-back, almost American small-town vibe. After breakfast at Dunedin Lookout Point - prepared by Maciek, as always - we set out to explore. The highlight was Baldwin Street, the steepest street in the world with a gradient of 34.8%. It’s so steep that while taking photos, we saw an ambulance arrive for someone who struggled with the climb.

    Next we hit the road again to complete the Southern Scenic Route. This 610 km journey, which runs from Wānaka to Dunedin, took us through a stunning mix of coastlines, forests, waterfalls, and hills. Every kilometer felt like a postcard come to life. It’s been the most beautiful road trip we’ve ever experienced.

    Now, with the Southern Scenic Route behind us, we’re heading back toward the mountains, ready for the next chapter of this adventure.    Read more

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    Tasman Sea & Ship Creek Beach

    January 21, 2025 in New Zealand ⋅ ☀️ 20 °C

    Today was a day of shifting plans and spontaneous choices as the journey took us back to New Zealand’s rugged West Coast. Passing the serene waters of Lake Wanaka, there was an initial idea to hike Sentinel Peak - a trek highly recommended by a friendly Spanish hitchhiker we picked up along the way. Determination was high, but in the end, laziness (and perhaps the lure of the road) won, and the decision was made to drive further north, toward the glacier country of Te Wahipounamu.

    The route was stunning, winding through ancient, dense rainforests that felt like stepping into another era. Along the way, we passed some of the iconic beaches New Zealand is known for - vast, untouched, and so empty that the silence becomes part of their beauty. One of these stops was Ship Creek, where the raw power of the Tasman Sea 🌊 left a strong impression. The waves are no joke here - just standing in the surf could knock you over.

    Nearby, there’s a mysterious little lake with golden-yellow water and a bottom that seems to vanish into darkness. It’s the perfect spot to imagine a lurking monster, though that didn’t stop Maciek from taking a quick swim.

    We ended the day at a campsite in Franz Josef, with plans to explore the glaciers tomorrow. It’s hard to believe how much variety this place offers—mountains, forests, beaches, and now glaciers, all within a few hours' drive.    Read more

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    Glacier in Westland Tai Poutini

    January 22, 2025 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 14 °C

    The journey through New Zealand’s South Island brought a mix of wonder and reflection. Today, it was time to visit two of the country’s most famous glaciers - Fox and Franz Josef. Known for their accessibility, these glaciers are among the few in the world that stretch down into temperate rainforests. However, their retreat is undeniable. Climate change has left its mark, and what was once possible to see up close can now only be admired from afar. The views, though limited, still carry a sense of awe - two icy giants slowly fading into history.
    To make up for the lack of close glacier views, a detour to Mueller Lake seemed fitting. The short walk around the lake felt like stepping into an enchanted forest, with moss - covered trees and lush greenery all around. The air was fresh and heavy with the scent of the earth. Each turn of the path revealed a new shade of green, brighter and richer than the last. It’s hard to look away from such a vibrant landscape - it feels alive.
    In the distance, Mount Cook (Aoraki) appeared, its peak wrapped in soft clouds. This is New Zealand’s highest mountain, standing tall at 3,724 meters. It’s a sacred place for the Māori people, named Aoraki, meaning "Cloud Piercer." Even shrouded in mist, the mountain’s presence is commanding, reminding of nature’s quiet power and beauty.
    Today felt like a balance - a reminder of nature’s fragility and its resilience, all in one corner of the world.    Read more

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    Pancake Rocks (Punakaiki)

    January 23, 2025 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 19 °C

    The journey north continued with a stop at Punakaiki, home to the famous Pancake Rocks. These unusual limestone formations look like stacks of pancakes, created over millions of years as layers of marine creatures and sediments compressed under the ocean. Wind and waves have eroded the softer layers, leaving behind these striking, stacked shapes.
    On the way, there was a surprise encounter with a weka, one of New Zealand’s curious flightless birds. It came right up to the camper, clearly not shy, probably hoping for food. These birds are known for their boldness and a tendency to steal shiny objects, so keeping an eye on belongings was necessary!
    By evening, the camper reached Abel Tasman National Park.    Read more

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    Apple Tree Bay

    January 24, 2025 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 19 °C

    The day was spent exploring Abel Tasman National Park, famous for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and lush native forests. The weather couldn’t have been better - clear skies and warm sun, perfect for a trek to Apple Tree Bay.
    The trail was a gentle walk through dense greenery, with occasional glimpses of the sea. Apple Tree Bay, with its quiet, sandy shore and crystal-clear water inviting for a quick rest. Along the way, several curious weka made an appearance. These flightless birds seem to have no fear of people and are always on the lookout for food or shiny objects. They added some fun to the walk🦤.
    Abel Tasman’s landscapes are truly unique - where else can you combine tropical vibes with lush forest trails?    Read more

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    Ferry ⛴️ (Picton ->Wellington)

    January 25, 2025 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 23 °C

    Today marked the next leg of the journey – from Abel Tasman National Park to Picton, followed by the ferry crossing to the North Island. It was a day of changing landscapes and views.
    The road from Abel Tasman to Picton winds through stunning terrain. The drive, which takes about 3 hours (part of it we did yesterday), passes through rolling hills, dense forests, and small towns. It’s tempting to stop at every lookout point, especially with the Tasman Bay shimmering in the distance.
    Before boarding the ferry, there was time to rest, cook a pasta 🍝 (which suddenly landed on the busch🌿 😂) and take a swim at a quiet beach near Picton (The Snout). The water was refreshingly cool. A perfect pause before the long ferry ride ahead.
    The ferry crossing from Picton to Wellington is an experience in itself. It’s expensive, yes, but the views make up for it. The first part of the journey takes you through the Marlborough Sounds – calm, glassy water surrounded by steep, green hills. It feels isolated and peaceful, with occasional small boats breaking the silence. Later, the Cook Strait is more open and windy. The whole trip takes about 3.5 hours.
    It feels bittersweet to leave the South Island behind after so many adventures, but the North Island awaits. A new chapter of the journey begins!    Read more

  • Career breake 2024-2025

    Mordorr 🌋

    January 27, 2025 in New Zealand ⋅ ☀️ 10 °C

    The North Island greeted us with endless rain – a full day and night of it. This made us even more worried about our plan to tackle the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, known for its challenging conditions. The thought of hiking through Mordor (yes, that Mordor from The Lord of the Rings) in bad weather wasn’t exactly comforting.

    We spent the evening at a cozy campsite that felt more like a mountain lodge. Together with a group of Poles and Czechs we met there, we debated whether to go for it or play it safe. By morning, warnings were everywhere: "Alpine Crossing strongly discouraged due to high winds and rain." But we decided to give it a try - and it turned out to be the right call!

    The trail itself was breathtaking and the weather sunny ☀️ with great visibility (though super windy 🌬️ )

    Mount Ngauruhoe, also known as Mount Doom, stood dramatically against the stormy sky. Its perfect volcanic cone made it clear why it was chosen for the movies.
    Emerald Lakes were otherworldly, their vibrant green hues created by dissolved minerals from the volcanic rocks. The sulfur smell? Strong, but part of the experience.
    Blue Lake, sacred to the Māori, offered a serene contrast with its calm, deep blue surface.
    The wind was fierce, making the climb feel even more epic. Time was our enemy, as the national park’s 4-hour parking limit forced us to complete the 6-hour trek in record time. Maciek, channeling his inner Frodo 🧌, practically sprinted down the mountain to save our camper from a parking ticket. He made it just in time, and somehow, the day ended with both relief and laughter.

    Tongariro didn’t make it easy, but it was absolutely worth it. This was the kind of day that will stay with us forever.    Read more

  • Career breake 2024-2025

    Whirinaki 🌳🌳🌳

    January 28, 2025 in New Zealand ⋅ ⛅ 21 °C

    Today’s journey led deep into Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park, a forest that once stretched endlessly across the land. When European settlers arrived, large-scale logging quickly destroyed much of it, targeting the massive podocarp trees that had stood for centuries. What remains today is a regenerated forest, but many of its giants still stand—some over 1,000 to 1,800 years old.

    The four-hour trail wound around the edge of a canyon, beneath towering rimu, tōtara, kahikatea, and mataī trees. Their trunks, covered in moss and ferns, reached high into the canopy, creating a dense, green world above. The air was damp and rich with the scent of earth and wood.

    The forest was alive with bird calls. One particularly bold companion for the walk was a North Island robin (toutouwai)—a small, curious bird with soft grey feathers and long legs. It hopped close, watching intently, and even followed along the trail for a while, darting down to grab insects from the ground. Higher in the trees, kererū, the New Zealand pigeon, flapped heavily between branches. Much larger than city pigeons, these birds have an iridescent green and purple sheen on their feathers and make a deep "whooshing" sound with their slow wingbeats.

    As night fell, the journey continued to Sanctuary Campsite, a quiet spot far from any light pollution. After dark, a guided night walk offered a chance to hear the kiwi, a nocturnal bird that is rarely seen. The forest, so loud during the day, became almost completely silent. Then, breaking the stillness, came the sound of a female kiwi calling—a high, rising whistle, repeated in short bursts. It was brief, but unmistakable.    Read more

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    Hobbiton 🧌

    January 29, 2025 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 24 °C

    Waking up in the middle of the forest felt surreal, especially after the eerie stories from the night before. Even during breakfast, there was still a slight chill in the air - both from the morning mist and lingering imagination. Before leaving, a short farewell walk through the woods seemed like a good idea.

    Unexpectedly, we crossed paths with two Māori guides leading a small group of tourists. They invited us to listen, and it turned out to be an unforgettable experience. Mike, one of the guides, shared stories about the trees and their uses - how certain woods were perfect for tools, shelters, or even carving canoes. Surprisingly, traditional waka (canoes) were carved directly in the forest, with trees carefully selected and shaped where they stood. We learned to identify edible plants, listened to bird calls, and tasted wild fruits growing along the path. The stories of the land, passed down through generations, added a whole new layer to the forest we had been walking through.

    Before saying goodbye, we were treated to a small meal and a warm herbal tea. Then came an unexpected request - the guides asked us to sing something in return. Not the usual way to end a hike, but why not?

    As much as we would have loved to stay longer, the road called - this time, to Hobbiton. The drive itself felt almost magical, with rolling green hills straight out of a fairytale. The former movie set, now a carefully maintained attraction, looked exactly as it did on screen. The hobbit holes, with their colorful doors and cozy interiors, felt surprisingly real. Even Maciek, who had joined last minute and wasn’t particularly excited beforehand, was completely drawn into the atmosphere.

    A day that started deep in the forest ended in the heart of Middle-earth. New Zealand keeps proving that every turn in the road can bring something unexpected.    Read more

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