Travelotos

a way of collecting the world.

[modestoddest-blog]

Letter to My Imaginary King (The King of my heart)

I'm so confused. So Hungry. I miss Singaporean breakfast haha! Lord, help me understand. someone so small but mighty, one that runs then zoom off just like that, loved and favoured but no one believes. The meaning of names in a christian country that doesn't feel like a christian country. It's weird. In a way. Yet, having denied you. Having be like Peter and Samaritan woman at the same time tells me that I also need a man like Peter who have changed. I see parallels well, thank you so much for this gift. I see through people well too. wow. white liars are not good too. If he have believed and is the Holy Spirit. let him seek me, otherwise, I'm happy either ways. I don't need this. I just want what you want lord. make it my desire, make it a moment we get to say "it is worth it" I love and trusted like here, but it has made me put down my muaythai guard yet I feel like I've been punched again and again. I don't understand this. Make me kind, yet strong, make me who you want me to be, for I am like a pottery unable to speak but have plenty of thoughts. I wanna be seen now but in my small tiny quiet way. My eyes have seen you, my ears have heard you and my heart have felt you. Flowed with you. Experience you here in New Zealand. Yet, all these travel don't satisfy, only you do. You've given me gifts beyond myself. I can sing, I can write, I can photograph, I can ideate and conceptualise but I am only but one person. Send me troops like David, Send me people who's got the same heart, Let me start something great. Thank you lord for all that you've made me to be so marvellous for one that's about to break free. But not just yet, I'm still like a bird without a home. And I don't want just a nice home. I want a safe, kind, love the word kind of home. I know what I want now. I want a lover not duties. It's great and it's good. I've lived to experience it and wisdom have aid me in such an accelerated way I can't even. But I love it, it helps me be inspired. And motivates to work it out. And best part is I have control over It also cos you practice it with me la. all the battery situations lol. Business needs to be for the people. Otherwise it really doesn't work. I am in the Jesus business yo, it's free haha. God using travel and finances a lot I wonder why.

[modestoddest-blog]

New Zealand & Singapore

Work Holiday Experience: A Singaporean Perspective

Well, where should I even start, I've been treated the kindest but also treated the worst, as if people did it on purpose. It may be a christian country, blessed with beauty of nature but human nature is more expressive than ever here in New Zealand.

I am amazed at the unexpected New Zealand. It's so different from what I imagined it to be having lived here for almost 8 Months. You're usually better approached when you say you're just a tourist. Like a foreigner in a land of "Israel" it's so interesting to see how NZ have allowed so many things in. And the human nature is corrupted. That said, this is just my experience. And there are still great people I've met.

But most of the time, I feel sad. And Unfairly treated, or needing to be guarded. " Or perhaps I just miss home. And can't wait to go back to Normal Life in Church, in this dark world.

Psalm 27

"

You have been my help; Do not leave me nor forsake me, O God of my salvation. 10 When my father and my mother forsake me, Then the Lord will take care of me.

11 Teach me Your way, O Lord, And lead me in a smooth path, because of my enemies. 12 Do not deliver me to the will of my adversaries; For false witnesses have risen against me, And such as breathe out violence. 13 I would have lost heart, unless I had believed That I would see the goodness of the Lord In the land of the living.

14 Wait[e] on the Lord; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!

"

Isaiah 60:2-14

2 The whole earth is wrapped in darkness, all people sunk in deep darkness, But God rises on you, his sunrise glory breaks over you. 

3 Nations will come to your light, kings to your sunburst brightness. 

4 Look up! Look around! Watch as they gather, watch as they approach you: Your sons coming from great distances, your daughters carried by their nannies. 

5 When you see them coming you'll smile - big smiles! Your heart will swell and, yes, burst! All those people returning by sea for the reunion, a rich harvest of exiles gathered in from the nations! 

6 And then streams of camel caravans as far as the eye can see, young camels of nomads in Midian and Ephah, Pouring in from the south from Sheba, loaded with gold and frankincense, preaching the praises of Go

6 And then streams of camel caravans as far as the eye can see, young camels of nomads in Midian and Ephah, Pouring in from the south from Sheba, loaded with gold and frankincense, preaching the praises of Go

And I just want to do this one thing:

Psalm 27 New King James Version

A Psalm of David.

"One thing I have desired of the Lord, That will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord All the days of my life, To behold the [b]beauty of the Lord, And to inquire in His temple. 5 For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; In the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock."

[modestoddest-blog]

Prospering your Bosses

Same Wisdom for Joseph is the same wisdom god can give you - (To achieve happiness, prosperity and progress for our nation)

The Train of thoughts: I miss Singapore so much lord, for the first time travelling, I really do. 

I’ve felt this for sometime now.  Intentions: Enough to be a blessing to others  The How: 

As I'm listening to the word, your word, transmitting time and space. I’m transcribing and writing it down. Honestly, making use of the fact / embracing myself. I can’t remember much of what pastor say. But I’m sure I'm not the only one haha. I understand the context, the idea, the concept and rephrases it, yet I didn't realise understanding the language is also important (so thank god for translators!) I hope it is of the same message. But in my wonderful mind, I am also able to help people understand it with parallels, sequences, concepts, basically in the way that person understands it best. A good writer understands pattern, but in words and thoughts and surely more, I’ve just started this but thank you for walking this journey with me. Just like a photographer, she understands what she sees by patterns, this includes colours, composition, timing etc in the theory these are called rules. 

For Singaporeans: Probably why someone got me a complex book because my mind is rather complex. and she probably hope I discussed the book with her. But yet, it’s not time, because I was not a reader. But she tried. Everyone has a time, a pace even for wisdom to be. Do it at your own time with Jesus, don’t let others stress you out. 

Phrases: Go lower than your capacity, when the lord has blessed it clearly. Do it. Check by tithing. 

I do that by asking Five loaves and two fishes, it multiplied.  Listening to: Wisdom for Finance - Joseph Prince 

Not quick way, not hasty way. 

[modestoddest-blog]

Rustle in the Winds

CHARADES! That was last night, at a kiwi engagement party, wild people drinking booze from the shoes. Not sure how that works, but perhaps it’s the Scottish culture. Which I appreciate. 

It was fun being able to be part of their circle of friends, just observing and enjoying the moments and presence of interesting and unique personalities and characters.  The older generations and immigrates seems to be the most welcoming and friendly, whom would hold longer conversation. I enjoyed myself. Though I had to uber back $40, 2 hours of work. Not too bad. 

Thank you lord for providing every single thing I need. 

Right today, there’s a Cyclone Gabrielle coming. But I'm asking the lord to ask angel Gabriel to redirect it. I will update again. I have no idea what a cyclone is at least it isn’t a typhoon I reckon. Adds to the experience of New Zealand I reckon. Either ways. But because I'm here, I know it will be different. Differently good! 

Thank you lord again. 

[modestoddest-blog]

Auckland Airport

Writing, so I would remember, also to help someone who appreciates my help :) There's auckland airport shuttle too, not harm asking for anywhere else, perhaps just a top up. Haven't tried this tho.

Novotel might be the best place to have uber pick up or pick up your friends.

über can be expensive tho - $75 to 154 will find the cheapest way and share it here.

1.Zilch might work, 16$ per hour. 2. skybus from cbd - Sky Drive (Ritchies, also avail in Queenstown) 3. Airport Shuttle.

[modestoddest-blog]

Working Holiday Visa

It’s taken about 15 days and pending. 

1. Submitted Visa application, https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas (445 NZD = 394.27 SGD)

2. Waited for the reply as following: University Cert, X ray Cert. 

3. Went ahead with X ray Certification by a panel radiologist assigned by NZ (Paragon, 69.55 SGD)

4. Awaiting the reply from my case officer and [email protected] (They do not reply, Submit your university certification. Paragon RADLINK Radio will help you submit it to New Zealand directly)

5. Managed Banks, Credit Cards and Cleared loans! (Cancel before before leaving, good to have a youtrip card too! Later you will settle the IRD / Tax, Bank account for Jobs)

6. Purchase a sim card prior trip so there’s still connection with Ruthie (AUS) and Jason (NZ)

7. Sorted out accommodation upon arrival. 

8. Australia Visa, Traveller declaration for NZ

9. Insurance - Annual done with FWD via shop back -90$ + MBA! ($256.65 SGD)

10. Phone number, Home, Work, Bank. Travel Itinerary. 27 Sep 2022.

11. get a hop card prior to arriving nz (Online, Cheaper!) and sim travel

12. $10 for a simple number with 2degree

13. Visa, Passport, Driver license, Home bank statement / proof of address  for appointment with bank - This requires applying online with number and calling anz to book appointment (Usually 1 - 2 weeks) 

14. Apply for IRD after Bank gives you a IRD number to register for (must do this as priority it takes almost 1.5 weeks now ( as at 10oct) 

15. Accomms - Trademe, Facebook (Weekly rent, Northshore if you have a car, till jan 2023 all transportations are 50% but buses do cancel and esp try not to do bus at night alone) Northshore = better scenery must be home early, CBD = Grafton, Mount Eden, Grey Lynn etc easy transport

16. Car - Trademe ( Good old Suzuki and Toyota, Suzuki’s got a pretty cute van, If you road trip a lot might be good to buy a larger convertible one like Rafa’s)

17. Connected in cg! Sunday and CG (Every fortnight tues at ami home) 

18. BJJ gym (Weekly 45$) Work in exchange

19. Work interviews with agencies / recruitment drives 

20. Bank - Apply online then wait for appointment. Get card, get pay now transfer account and bring cash to have a transaction and get Bank statement printed for IRD at the counter.  Tips: go to smaller branches for faster appointment and call into ANZ hotline (Rotorua / Taupo); pray for favour with all things in nz.

21. IRD - Step 1: Get a IRD number first  https://myir.ird.govt.nz/tools/_/

at, Enter your New Zealand bank account number - key in everything on Bank statement from point 20. Take a photo of Bank statement immediately! You’ll need to upload that in the portal. 

Step 2: Wait to Register IRD with your new IRD number (Remember to check for IRD tax too before leaving

I use google chrome cos I had troubles with safari and IRD site (13 Oct) 

22. https://whatsmyworth.co.nz/salary-survey/?func=5&loc=0

23. After IRD, address and mobile. you’re pretty much set.  - after settling for 4 months -  24. Find accommodations thru CANZ, Facebook or words of mouth. No harm being friendly, everyone loves to talk here. 

25. Travel now and then, when not working. It is okay to ask for offs, or to pace work. Don’t bring Singapore culture here. Start like a baby. 

26. But wise as a serpent, and realise what people are doing. draw boundaries or laugh about it so they realise you know too, you’re wise too. Pray for NZ. 

27. Great country very blessed! 

  For now.. To be updated, this is my way of working around it but be creative with it

To find out more, follow me on @modestoddest (Instagram) 

Notes: 

-heater in shower, in bed room/ mattress 

-many ways around “expensive” nz -hangers

If these help you, tag me on insta! @modestoddest :) 

[modestoddest-blog]

Witnessing the journey of Hiroki Akimoto showed me how a man with a whole village supporting him and sometimes as simple as a pat on the back, or posters on the wall. Most of all, Mana Akimoto, a stern but encouraging sister, believed in him the most. Yet she’s the least obvious number one supporter of Hiroki. Youko Akimoto, Hiroki’s wife selflessly gave up her dreams to support her husband’s dreams in Singapore. Minako and Tsuyoshi Akimoto, Hiroki's parents, believed in Hiroki since day one. His Karate Coach, Go Narita, seeks another Hiroki even until this day. All of them helped him through the toughest of times, this is grace given in place of grace. 

And eventually merging as a World champion after 3 years. 25 March 2022, He finally gets a shot for this title. At the end of this essay, is a video capturing the emotions behind the wins, tears and hard work. I would love to use this photo essay to prophesy with the lord, praying that the lord gives him the desire of his heart and that his heart is ready to receive it. Keep him safe for his loved ones and let him experience your hands of grace over his life - It has been an honour documenting such an extraordinary and weighty life you have created.  

And now with a belt, it’s more than just for himself - It represents so much more after 3 years.

.

.

.

 Mitsugo no tamashii hyaku made

-Minako Akimoto (Hiroki’s Mom)

[modestoddest-blog]

Human connection Storytelling, One that speaks heart deep. One thing needful. 

[modestoddest-blog]

Redang - Malaysia. 

Travel JB flights to anywhere else. especially worth it if you’re going to borneo or any parts of Malaysia (Domestic). 

at least 4 days to get a proper license with stopar. Dive with locals! 

[modestoddest-blog]

One of the most incredible trip, one that I've always wanted to visit since a teen. And finally, J prompted and revived the curiosity to this place, went on this trip for a Final year project. 

Really easy to travel, but you need to be adventurous for this and expect the unexpected. If there’s a way to get there by public transport (Use C trip app) do that. Really easy to get hostels, and cheap stays. It’s a miracle trip and plenty of help along the way, make friends and make friends from your previous trip! ( From Bali trip, met and helped someone with translation, little did I know she’s from Xi’an.)

Unique route, dated back to Silk Road. Mostly Chinese speaking, otherwise use sign languages! Or drawing. 

“the idea of creating nothing to report out of something - usually an event happens like Bloody Sunday” 

Photograph, Putting them into Ideation, Prompted for Chapters and Category and the story begins exploring Human rights in the period we are living in. It goes into many Caterogies of what it means to be human as well. Leading an unbiased view but a show and the audience concludes or finds out more about it on their own. Every story told from heart to hearts and to speak heart deep. And ultimately Soul deep. J has thought me through Evolve as well. More than the work its the Human connections. 

[modestoddest-blog]

experiments

[modestoddest-blog]

Nusa Penida

From the busking Bali to Isolated Nusa Penida. Really easy for solo traveller to find community and hostels! Costings are by per pax here, including workshops - silversmithing and stone carving are so therapeutic, would love to try wood and batik dye-ing next time round!

ps. I heard dives are pretty awesome here at Nusa Penida. Some spotted Mola Mola Fish! (Gigantic Sun Fish) 

[modestoddest-blog]

Favourites from Boracay, Sunsets top the charts. Hostels stays are plentiful, but not as boutique or some cases clean. 

If you just want some sun and beautiful beach by the door step, this is the place. 

[modestoddest-blog]

Favourites from Philippines #unfiltered

Hostels Stays in Coron are not easy to find, but “tours” are affordable and beautiful. Worth a go!  ps. I heard Palawan is the next best thing! 

[modestoddest-blog]

Boracay

Boracay is a rather touristy country, if you’ve been to Phuket, it’s more enjoyable than Phuket, keeping in mind it is as overpriced and crowded. If you’ve been to Bali, the beaches surpasses that of Bali’s. Crystal blue, unlike Bali’s. However, if you’ve been to Nuasa Penida, a tugged away island close to Bali, closer than Gili is to Bali. And if you’ve enjoyed Penida, Boracay is as beautiful as that. But personally, I loved Coron. It’s island hopping is so spectacular, unlike Boracay, for everything you do prepare to have a price tag on it, even if it means just to swim on these island hoppings. I’ve heard about Palawan, but I’ve not been  there. We were rather conflicted between Coron and Palawan initially, after some research we decided on Coron. If you’ve been to Palawan feel free to leave a comment to let me know what I have missed out in Palawan. 

*Perhaps that may cause me to drop by and write about it*

In short, don’t get scammed too much in Boracay, notice I didn’t say don’t get scammed, because you will. Everything is marked up, Boracay is a place where you can bargain when you get into good terms with the shop owners. So just be friendly! Smiles are universal anyway. If you want to just be a beach bum this is the place to be. But don’t forget your sunblock, unlike Singapore, the sun is extreme there, actually in all of Philippines in general.  

[modestoddest-blog]

Whatever I've bought for you on the cross, would you not take it?

[modestoddest-blog]

Travel and Stays

Coming up soon! Recapping and Recommending stays everywhere in the world. Eventually documenting and sharing with you love for diversity.