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Peru 2013

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Posted on October 23, 2013 by nicolag33

The Sacred Valley

Arequipa

9 October, I was officially in Peru, after crossing the border in Tacna. The bus ride from Arica to Arequipa was incredibly beautiful. The mountains and desert scape seemed to change every time I looked out the window. For once it wasn’t an overnight bus, so this time, got to see what the landscape is doing! There were to be a lot of bus journeys to get about on this trip. Luckily l really like sitting on a bus and watching scenery unwind. Probably more than I do wandering streets.

Arequipa is 2335 m above sea level. I was on the way to Cusco. And thought it would be good to stay in this town to help with acclimatization. Staying three nights at a hostel there called Bothy Hostel. It was really friendly and I liked the terrace especially. As the sun set, the view of the surrounding volcanoes would take your breath away. I enjoyed walking around Arequipa, as there is quite a foray of eating out. I met a few of the lads whom worked at the hostel. They would take the guitar to sing Spanish songs, hustling the tourists with their charm, and they took me along. Afterwards it was lunch, where they spent their earnings in this town is full of restaurants. A mouth watering meal that I had whilst there was a combination of quinoa, figs, avocado, and shrimps.

Peru is a bit of food capital of South America. And Arequipa is bulging with some of the best restaurants in Peru. Newer influences are blended with traditional cooking styles, makes Peruvian food so appealing. With unique combinations of flavours and influences. If your going to Arequipa, be prepared to have your palette refreshed.

Cusco

12 October, Oltursa, on the overnight bus at 8pm, from Arequipa to Cusco, for 60 Sol. Cusco is a place that draws many from all over the world, also a stepping stone enroute to Machu Picchu. There is much to explore in this city near the Urubamba Valley of the Andes mountain range. Its elevation is around 3,400 m. Full to overflowing with culture and history, with much to delight the visual senses. The indigenous name of this city is Qusqu. This city was built on layers of cultures. The former Inca Empire; Tawantinsuyu, was built on Killke structures. With the Spaniards replacing the indigenous temples with Catholic churches, and Inca palaces with mansions for the invaders.

I met a new friend called Astrid at the hostel, which was close to town. We had a lovely time at the markets one morning. We also went to Museo de Plantas Sagradas, Magicas y Medicinales. This museum specializes in sacred, magical and medicinal plants used in the Andean and Amazon Region. Interesting learning about the coca plant. We also went to a restaurant that was hosting a meditation ceremony one evening and this was a real highlight. This group of mainly local woman, they kind of held us in their warmth, and treated us so well.

I brought coca leaves and was chewing these, keeping the system balanced in the high altitude. I went to the Chocolate Museum café one day. With lots of lush things made of chocolate, and they do short classes to make your own.

The Q’orikancha Complex, also called Coricancha. It is the main Inca temple for the worship of major deities. It is also a supreme example of Inca stonework. On my first day in Cusco, I spent a lot of time outside here. Felt guided to stand in a spot for what seemed a good while. And fascinating visiting the Temple complex inside.

Description of the complex that I found most interesting. This was written on the wall: ‘Q’orikanchas position in the Cusco valley was carefully planned. Dozens of ceques (power lines, in many ways similar to ley lines, though in Cusco they appear to have been related to imperial geneology) radiate for the temple towards more those 350 sacred huacas, special stones, springs, tombs and ancient quarries. Prior to the Incas, the Wari culture had already dedicated the site with its own sun temple, known as Intianch (inti meaning “sun” and cancha meaning “enclosure”) Before the conquistadors set their gold-hungry eyes on it. Q’orikancha must have been even more breathtaking, consisting as it did of four small sanctuaries and a larger temple set around a central courtyard. The whole complex was encircled on the inside walls by cornice of gold, hence the temples name (Q’orikancha means “golden enclosure”)’

Whilst in Cusco, I met up with Victor in a café. He is a local shaman and we had a mutual contact in Helen Barnes from New Zealand. In a reading with Helen earlier in the year. There was given a nod for me in the direction of Sasayhuaman. This complex sits at the top of Cusco. It was built by the Incas in the 15th century. But archaeology sits that the earliest occupation of the hilltop dates to about 900 CE. With dry stone walls constructed of huge stones, it is quite a place to explore. I went there briefly one afternoon, and then back for a lot longer another day. Victor had mentioned he could take me to this place, as he is a tour guide. But I felted guided to go there myself, so that I could take my time.

Aqua Calientes – Machu Picchu

I met a lad at the hostel whom mentioned about a tour. Another way to get to the town of Aqua Calientes. He was going to book his journey, so I went along to find out more and ended up booking too. But it was all a bit epic really. As this option was cheaper than the train, but it involved a bit of a hike. So I caught the train back! But I guess it was more of a pilgrimage, to walk in.

I left most of my belongings at the hostel in Cusco. Taking a small bag with all I needed for a few nights. The small van hugged the road with a steep and deep drop on one side. It was a hairy ride to a place called Electric. From there it was a three hour hike to Aqua Calientes. It is a beautiful walk in the jungle by the river beside the train tracks. I met a new friend, and with her walked together slowly to get there. Some of us slow walkers got picked up in a small train at the end. Thank goodness. As its a bit of tight squeeze walking through the train tunnel when a train is going through it. And a wee bit scary. I was knackered, but I had done it.

Agua Calientes is the town at the foot of valley of Machu Picchu. It is a cool little town. I went for a walk after sitting down to rest in my hot exhaustion. And found a hostel to stay in. In the morning I was going to Machu Picchu!

What a place Machu Picchu is, catching one of the early buses up. I ended up staying there for nine hours. As it is so big, there is much to explore and see. And so even if there is lots of tourists it is barely noticeable. A few people wanted to get a photo taken with me. When leaving I met three people that I bumped into two more times on this journey. Miquel, (Peruvian) Iryna and Andrusenko (from Ukraine) and we bonded straight away. I said goodbye and then took the bus back down. On the way, looking back up to Machu Picchu. There was a rainbow like I have never seen before in my life. Bright and clear.

I think the name of the hostel I stayed at was ‘Eco Mapa’. With a room to myself, it was a good spot for only 40 Sol. Aqua Calientes, is tiny village with hot springs and quaint shops. And looming 2000 feet above this little village is Machu Picchu. Aqua Calientes translated means ‘hot waters’. I went to the hot springs on my last night. It was really nice and it felt so good to be in that water after the day at Machu Picchu. The people I had met at Machu Picchu were there too.

Ollyantaytambo

Boarded the train from Aqua Calientes to Ollyantaytambo. When I got on, I reunited yet again by chance with the three met the day before at Machu Picchu. Miquel, Iryna and Andrusenko. We bonded some more and we met Bethany from the USA. And other travellers around us, whom kept popping up to say hello. Maybe everyone was amped up from the Machu Picchu energy. We did a big group photo when we all got off. It is a lovely train trip, the journey out was a lot easier than the journey in.

I liked the town of Ollyantaytambo, in the Sacred Valley, so decided to stay one night there. Here, you can wander the cobblestone streets. And I loved the waterways that are running through the streets, like they were in times gone by. And the markets there at the foot of the ruins are full of colour and jewellery.

The hostel that I stayed at was five hundred years old. I had purchased a Cusco tourist ticket, which means free entry to many of the places in Sacred Valley. Spending time at the temple ruins there, which is right in the town really. Its Impressive how the ancient masons fitted these enormous stones together, from quarries miles away. And some of them look like they weigh tons. Exploring these ruins means climbing lots of steps, lots of ups and downs. People were getting guided tours. I like to stop and eavesdrop for a while and then move on. But if you go there and are looking for a guide. They are usually walking about to offer tours and information.

There was some places to go to in the Sacred Valley. So upon inquiry, and as it seems to be the way. I hired a local driver to take me the next day. We went to the circular Inca terraces of Moray. Which had quite a powerful energy and is unique among the Inca sites in the Sacred Valley area. It is on a high plateau at about 3,500 metres. The site contains Inca ruins, with several terraced circles. The purpose of this stunning place is shrouded in mystery.

Then to the Salt mines of Maras, where since pre-Inca times, locals have been obtaining salt. Done by evaporating warm salty water from a local subterranean stream. The stark white here under the bright Peruvian sun, is sunglasses worthy. It is such a beautiful sight, the salt everywhere, whiteness to behold. And people were working and collecting salt when I was there too.

I then took a bus back to Cusco and stayed a few more nights there. October 21, from Cusco. took a day bus tour that left around 6.40 am, getting to Puno around 5 pm. This tour with Wonder Peru bus, stopped at places in the Sacred Valley on the way. We stopped at Raqch’i, an Inca archaeological site. This was the reason I had taken this tour, as I wanted to go there. It is 3480 m above sea level and it is also known as the Temple of Wiracocha. We also stopped at markets.

Puno

In Puno I stayed at the Inkas Rest Hostel. Puno is also high altitude, at roughly 4000 metres above sea level, and on the shores of Lake Titicaca. This sacred lake is the largest high altitude lake in the world.

The next day, it was time on the Lake, a boat trip with Leon Tours. We were shown and stepped onto the floating islands of Uros, and how people live on these man made islands.

‘The Uros are several craft-floating islands made of aquatic reeds called Totora. Where Andean inhabitants live since immemorial time. Maintaining their costumes, traditions, and lifestyle, completely isolated from the world, floating eternally in the waters of Lake Titicaca. The islands are around 60 to 70 in total. However, the quantity may change every year. Because each island can merge with another. Oe disappear and its inhabitants moving to another larger island and join other islanders’. (www.machutravelperu.com)

And also to the island of Taquile, where we had lunch, with trout and sopa with quinoa. Taquile, the locals call it Intika in their native tongue. As most of the roughly 2,000 inhabitants of the small islands still speak Quechua, the ancient language of the Inca. Time has stood still on the Island, the men are known for their knitting. I loved this on the island, the men knitting.

Beautiful sunny day. Met a man called Park, whom was from Japan, he worked as an acupuncturist. On the way back, I lay on top of the boat. And felt the waves of Lake Titicaca roll and wash under me.

Amaru Muru

That night at the hostel, Inka Rest, there was a though not uncommon power cut through the whole town. And so it was romantic candlelight. The next day I decided to stay another night in Puno. So that I could go to the gateway of Amaru Muru, before entering the Bolivia side of Lake Titicaca.

I went to a tour agency, as I was trying to figure out how to book flights to Mexico. I met the owner, a local called Eduardo. I asked him about Amaru Muru. And said he could help me get there, he seemed to have an understanding of the significance of the place. Eduardo was to guide me there, I booked it in. And he normally books a taxi for the tour. But I though it would be good to go on local public transport!? It was a bumpy bus ride, giving coca leaves to the locals on the way.

Amaru Muru It is a large rock face that stands over seven meters tall, with a doorway cut into it. It is made of a pinkish-hued stone material that is unusual and is not found anywhere else in the region. Large funnels flank the doorway on each side, and the door is large enough to fit a person. A small circular recess is visible about mid height, and what seems to be indented to place your hands. This ancient structure, it seems its origins and purpose are shrouded in mystery. The name Amaru Muru means ‘serpent’s mouth,’ it is also known as Hayu Marca or ‘Gate of the Gods,’

I didn’t take a photo of the actual portal that is Amaru Muru. As it didn’t feel right to do so at the time. We did ceremony there and sensing into the energetic impact of this place. I felt it to be a Lemurian energy, which I had also felt going to Castle Hill in New Zealand. And near Castle Lake at Mount Shasta. These three places on this fair earth I have felt Lemurian energy strongly. I guess it is some sort of remembrance? I walked further up too by myself. This region is called the Valley of the the Spirits. Around what looked like stone arches, and interesting rock formations, bringing through the LL whilst there.

From Lonely Planet writings: ‘Coming from Puno, beyond the bridge over the Rio Ilave. The road cuts 60 km across the plain towards Juli… The Gateway of Amaru Muru, a doorway like alcove carved into the rock. And said by indigenous mystics to serve as a dimensional link to the ancestors. A belief shared by new agers, who view it as the Andean “star gate”. A kind of link to non-Earthly beings and other worlds. It is very hard to find, without a local guide or tour leader.’

Amaru Muru gateway- courtesy of internet image.

8.30 am bus from Puno to Copacabana, crossing over the border to the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca.

Chile 2013

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Posted on October 9, 2013 by nicolag33

Following the Andes

I flew from Auckland to Santiago, on the 19th of September. I was embarking on another journey, this time following the Earths Kundalini, in its new place. After reading books that had been recently published, and researching how it had shifted to the Andes Mountains. This knowledge once I had read it, wouldn’t leave me be, and so I found myself setting off again.

One of the books is by Drunvalo Melchizedek, that references the sacred event that takes place every 13,000 years. ‘Serpent of Light: Beyond 2012 – The Movement of the Earth’ s Kundalini and the Rise of the Female Light’. Is the name of the book. It speaks of the Earths Kundalini energy emerging from its resting place in the planet’s core. And moving like a snake across the surface of our world. Its movements from ancient Lemuria, to finding a home in Atlantis. Then moving on to the Himalayan mountains of India and Tibet. This time, he describes the “Serpent of Light” has moved to the Andes Mountains of Chile and Peru. Incorporating the Mayan prophesies. (More at the end of this post)

Another book, The Gaia Effect, published in 2013 also reflected about this earth energetic shift, and with similar prophesies. Written by Monika Muranyi and Lee Carroll (Kryon).

And so this was the start of a journey I had mapped out, that followed this line. Up through and following the Andes in Chile, into Peru. And then on wards to sacred sites in Bolivia, Mexico, America and Hawaii. I felt guided to take this serpent path, starting in Santiago. This was quite a big journey with the twists. Covering a lot of distance, taking me to many places and many bus rides! I had recently started speaking Light Language whilst back in New Zealand. And so this journey also included this aspect.

Santiago

Arriving in Santiago around midday. Today was a day of celebration, it was Chilean day. But the buses and trains were a bit out of kilter. Weary eyed after the flight, so oblivious to it. Set on getting to my destination. I was to stay with Sofia and her daughter, Celeste. Sofia is Chilean and I had met her when she was studying in Dunedin. Her flat was at Quirihue, Nunoa. Taking a bus and trains from the airport to Irarrazaval Metro Station, and then a taxi from there. Sofia had kindly left an envelope with some keys for me. But I was a bit wired, and failed to read which flat the keys were for. So it took me ages of trying random doors! Jet-lag does strange things with brains. I finally worked it out, and happily curled up inside and went to sleep. Meeting with Sofia when she got home later.

Sofia took me to her local supermarket, she introduced me to Palmitos. Which she ate from a can, I brought these quite a lot on my trip and enjoyed them. These are vegetable, also known as hearts of palm. The edible inner core or bud of certain species of palm trees.

In Santiago, I went to Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes and Museo de Arte Contemporaneo, both next to each other. With great architecture and many different artworks to behold. It took a short while to get used to the street dogs in Chile. Central Santiago was my first experience of this. The dogs seemed fine and are just doing their thing. In less affluent places in Chile they didn’t look so good sometimes which is hard to see.

In Barrio Brasil, there is vibrant street art, with crumbling old fashioned houses, and outdoor markets. And Sofia took me to the markets one day. Sofia’s friend was staying at her family house in Barrio Brazel. I was invited along with her friends and it was a nice day. It was a really cool house, and nice to step inside and see how the locals live.

21 Sept, I walked up Cerro San Cristobal, with sweeping views over Santiago. With a snowy white 14 m statue of the Virgin de la Immaculada Concepsion, towering atop the cumber (summit). It was a bit of a hike but worth it, I wanted to be on that spot for the Equinox.

Sofias flat had a lovely bohemian vibe, and I rested a lot when I was in Santiago. I got to know the local area with many walks and finding shady spots. It took longer than I thought it would, to get myself jump started heading away on the next part. I am very thankful to Sofia and Celeste, for the opportunity to stay with them.

Valparaisio

23 Sept, it was time to leave Santiago, and I was ready. I bussed to Valparaisio which is about two hours. I stayed one night at Hostal Caracol, in Bellavista Street. ‘Pablo Neruda said it best, Valparaiso, how absurd you are… you haven’t combed your hair, you’ve never had time to get dressed, life has always surprised you’. (Lonely Planet).

You see colorful street art and murals everywhere here, wandering, and meandering up and down the winding hills of Valparaiso. A maze of steep streets alleys and escaleras (stairways), and crumbling mansions. It was a sunny day and I wandered around this Port City.

La Serena

24 Sept, I bussed to the coastal town of La Serena, and stayed two nights at a hostel on Vicuna. I went to Museo Arqueologico, and was drawn in and captivated by the the Easter Island statue that was there. I ended up spending a lot of time with this statue, and quietly speaking LL. And then I went to the beach, to the light house. It was quite a long walk there and back, I had thought it was going to be closer! Had a fish dish that was very delicious at a small local restaurant. The next day I went for a massage from a blind woman, as was recommended by the hotel. Unfortunately I found I was freezing cold! But it did help me unwind of course.

Vicuna

Then caught a bus to Vicuna, on the 26^th. One night, went to along to Obervatorio Cerro Mamalluca, for a two hour astrological tour. It is 9 km Southeast of Vicuna, with a 30 cm telescope. It was a clear night, and I had never seen the stars like I saw them up that hill. With a very funny Chilean guide, for extra spice, and meeting others on the tour. The highlight was that we saw Saturn and its rings through the telescope. Though very tiny, it was amazing to see! And also Venus and the star clusters, all making for a great night.

Staying at Hostel Valle Hermoso, on Gabriela Mistral. With a nice room to myself, and the woman that ran it was very friendly. Lonely planet says about the Hostel, ‘Eight airy and immaculately clean rooms around a sun-drenched patio inside and old adobe casona – with Oregon pine beams and walnut floors’.

‘The spirit of Gabriela Mistrals somnambulist poetry seeps from every pore of snoozy little Vicuna. Just 62 km east of La Serena. This is the easiest base from which to delve deeper into the Elqui Valley. The town itself, with its low key plaza and lyrical air and compact dwellings’ (Lonely Planet). In Vicuna I went to Chaski for dinner and wandered around a wee bit. The town felt nice and calm after being in bigger cities.

Cochiguaz

Centro Magnetica

The Elqui Valley, known for its new age communes and cutting edge observatories. I wanted to go this place when I found about the magnetic centre, or centro magnetica in Spanish.

27^th Sept, I got a bus to Montegrande, through the Elqui Valley. I met a guy called Rob, an Englishman whom was looking for his dog. Which I think the locals find kind of loco, as in Chile the dogs all run wild, free and unrestricted. I asked him if he was going to Cochiquaz, on the off chance. As the bus doesn’t go there, only as far as Montegrande. He dropped me at the start of the road to Cochiquaz, which was very close. I had researched and knew this was my only way in, to hitch a ride with a friendly local. And so Cynthia Conrads pulled up. She took me to her mothers place on the way. She and her comrade were dropping off bags full of horse manure. So we stopped in and she showed me around this wondrous hostel called ‘Albaricoque Cochiquaz’. It was not open at the moment, it was next to the river and right next to a mountain. I found there was an amazing energy at one place. I did some LL and described to her what it was, she was interested. She was lovely, and we swapped addresses on the drop off just up the road from Spa Cochiquaz,

According to Lonely Planet, ‘New Age Capital of Northern Chile, the secluded valley of Cochiquaz is accredited with an extraordinary concentration of cosmic vibes. A vortex of powerful energies much publicised UFO sightings and formidable healing powers. But you needn’t be a believer to enjoy the beautiful valley’.

And so I found my way to Cochiquaz. I stayed at a place I would highly recommend called Spa Cochiquaz. It was slightly above my normal price ranging. But with three vegetarian meals included each day (with entree and desert). I had booked in online, and lo and behold. With lucky fate it just happened to be at the foot of the sacred mountain – Cancana. Enjoying a large lunch, afterwards I went for a rest, as was really tired. Listening to the wind, as the wind picks up every afternoon. Then I was very late for dinner as I didn’t know the time, but they served me kindly. The staff at the spa were kind. When I was leaving they wanted me to leave a big message in the visitors book, even if in English. They were all very helpful and delightful. It was just what I needed, I felt safe and well looked after. I could take my herbs properly, (I was taking chinese herbs brought from NZ) and ended up staying three nights.

Cochiquaz is also known as the magnetic centre, which used to be in Tibet – but it has shifted. This is why I went there. A guy at the hostal in La Serena said that if you drill a hole through Tibet. It ends up in Cochiquaz.

I went to a really good yoga class at the spa the next morning. Run by a local named Alex, and there was just the two of us. I felt renewed and refreshed afterwards. Then a woman called Roxanna dropped by and asked if I wanted to come up the mountain, yes OK!

So, we started scuttling up the mountain, but we went, not on the camino (track) so much, but straight up! Well we zig-zagged really. But it was quite full-on and not for the faint-hearted. But after a good sleep, meditation and one on one yoga, I was ready! Marseilles (one of the staff) had some water at the top. Well not really ‘the top’ as such, but a point that was quite high up. He was abseiling and with his girlfriend Cynthia (whom also works at the Spa). This mountain is the magnetic centre, so determination got me up there and determination got me back down. I did a lot of sliding on my tush, as it was the easiest way back down. So, I made it! I did some LL up where we were, whilst the others were abseiling. I lay under/on rocks and did some voice toning and connecting with the energies of the Monte. And so I was late for lunch. But they said ‘we will serve you’ as they knew we had been up the Monte.

On the way back down we went past a place that I felt strong energy. I was told by the others it was a Mayan Ceremonial site. And so I was determined to get back up there, which I did a few days later.

On the 29^th, I had not slept very well. But whilst meditating in the morning, it came to me that I had to go to the rock. I had seen it from above the day before. And heard it was an ancient Inca place, and had carvings. So, I found out how to get there, it was not far and I went there before lunch. The name of this rock is Piedra del Guanaco. It was a short walk to the Acienda House. Where I was told to ask for Carmen; to ask for permission to walk on their land to the rock. When approaching the casa, there were three dogs barking. I did LL which seemed to be describing why I was there. Two of them lay and down and were quiet as I walked past up the drive. The third one, a beagle seemed to be shaking and scared and hid behind a chair! It was barking a small bit under its breath, but otherwise fine.

I introduced myself to Carmen and asked for permission. She brought me to the entrance, to the clearing where it is. I was there by myself for a good few hours. It seemed to be that was working with the ley lines. I was guided to go right around it. Working with certain spots, before I felt like I could approach the rock. I meditated underneath it. And toned near it. There were rock carvings clearly on the rock, the figures looked like llamas. Then back for lunch, and resting in the afternoon.

On the last morning there on the 30th. It was time to go to the Mayan Ceremonial site up the Monte again. I went by myself, after meditation and breakfast at about 10.30, after deciding to stay for lunch there at the Spa before leaving the valley. I scaled up, staying on the caminos this time, where I could find them. And did LL and stayed there until I felt the ease. When I was climbing the mountain. I was laughing to myself. My star sign is Capricorn, the mountain goat. But alas, luckily I don’t climb many mountains, I’m that good at.

Before I left Cochiquaz, I enquired with Roxanna whether it was possible for a chakra clearing. The session was powerful and really helped, she gifted it to me with kindness. What a place to get a healing, and your chakras sorted for now, at the magnetic centre! It was very valuable, she said that two chakras were closed. The crown chakra and the sacral chakra, everything else was fine. That made sense, the sacral chakra especially. I was going to Lake Titicaca later in this trip, and that Lago relates to this chakra. She also gifted me a flower essence.

I saw hummingbirds, I saw a Condor flying from sitting on the mountain – Cancana – Monte. It had felt like a good sign.

Then after the session, it was goodbye hugs to the staff, and I gave some of them some LL. And then a taxi took me back to Montegrande. Where I got a bus to La Serena, for an overnight 18.50 bus to Callama.

Callama

30th Sept, one the worst movies ever made was being shown on the overnight bus. I decided to stay in Callama and catch up with a friend called Sophia. It was a weird day as I was overtired. With lots of hanging out at the bus station, as Sophia was working. She picked me up after work, and she brought me to her casa. Meeting her Chilean partner , and her wee boy Luciano, who took a shine to me and vice versa. I had met Sophia in Dunedin, and she is also a painter. It was nice to have a bit of a rest before going on. Sophia took me and the little one on a bit of tour one day. To Chiu Chiu town and to an interesting ruins complex near there. Callama, I remember at the time, had a lot of stray dogs.

San Pedro de Atacama

Lonely Planet, describing this place, ‘they say the high quantities of quartz and copper in the region gives their people positive vibes and the good vibes of northern Chiles number one tourist draw San Pedro de Atacama (elevation 2438) are sky high. Spectacular scenery’.

I may have stayed at Hostel Sonchek. When I arrived off the bus, although it was a short walk to the main street there. I was alas, a bit lost. A man cycling past on his bike helped me out with advice and instant friendliness. Gonzalo was his name.

I enjoyed going to the Meteorite Museum (Museo del meteorito) also. Hosting the largest collection of meteorites in the world, that have fallen in the Atacama desert. I brought a small bit of meteorite.

And went on a few day tours. The tour assistant booking me in was a kiwi lass, whom Gonzalos had directed me to. She set me straight, and so I booked a tour or two. The main street there is Calle Caracoles. I met a couple from England at the hostel, Rosie and Lee. And I ended up staying with them years later in London.

The first day trip was to Valle Dela Luna – Moon Valley. The valley is famous for its resemblance to the surface of the moon. Owing to its different stratifications and the salt formations.

A high mountain range can be seen, known as the Cordillera de Domeyko. Whose peak is Kimal, (4,278m above sea level) Sala de Atacama, where I was is 2,300m above sea level. Also seen there is the Andean Mountain Range, which is made up of a plateau and a chain of volcanoes.

The Three Maries, are formations resulted from intense erosion processes. They are composed of gravel, clay, salt, gems and quartz. At approximately one million years old.

The Indigenous Association of the Moon Valley consists of six communities, together with CONAF, the National Forest Corporation. Both co-manage “Los Flamencos National Reserve”. In charge of protecting the renewable natural resources of these ancestral territories. While at the same time caring for the natural and cultural heritage of the communities.

I met with the group for the day, and we met our guide. And we were taken in a van to various spots in the Valley. And then when the sun was going down, at the Panoramic View point. We visited the Three Maries “Tres Marias”

And the next day it was another tour. This time to the Salt… The Sala de Atacama, where we also visited lagoons. Swimming in water with high salt content, meant you can float easily. And then later to a spot where the colours change beautifully when the sun goes down. The temperature drops quickly then too. After the tour I went out with some of the people I had met that day.

Arica

Catching the overnight bus from San Pedro de Atacama, I had a lot of trouble with my ears coming through. In Arica I stayed at Sunny Days Hostel, on Tomas Arvena, in a dorm room. The New Zealand owner and Chilean partner, provided a fantastic free breakfast. Whilst there, I walked to Point El Morro.

Buses in Chile, at the time were either Turbus or Pullman, I caught mainly Turbus. I did a lot of bussing in Chile! Both of these bus companies delivered an excellent service. The buses were it seemed, much better than the ones I caught in America. If you look at a map of Chile you will see it is a long thin country. So it can be quite a while on a bus. I remember being on one over night bus. And as night was falling, the conductor came around and put a blanket on each of us. I swear he kind of tucked it under my chin and I felt like I was being tucked in! Hospitality plus.

9th October, from Arica, crossing over the border to Peru, together with a woman from the hostel. In a shared collectivo taxi with five of us in the car. She was going shopping in Tacna, which is a border Peruvian city. She was off to update her wardrobe with some new jeans and things. I really wasn’t there to go shopping, so we said goodbye at the bus station. I booked on the next bus to Arequipa, Peru.

Kundalini Movement

“Life may seem to be business as usual, but it is not. We are changing fast… Remember this for life is going to present stranger things to you in your lifetime, and they all have meaning and purpose… Only Mother Earth and ancient Maya know what’s going to happen.”

From the book, ‘Serpent of Light: Beyond 2012’ – The Movement of the Earth’s Kundalini and the Rise of the Female Light, 1949 to 2013. by Drunvalo Melchizedek.

“And with every relocation changed our idea of what spiritual means. And gender. And heart. This time, with much difficulty, the “Serpent of Light” has moved to the Andes Mountains of Chile and Peru”.

Te Kohanga 2013

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Posted on June 12, 2013 by nicolag33

I planned to go to Te Kohanga, otherwise known as Castle Hill for the Matariki new moon. This was my first visit to this sacred place, that is about an hour out of Christchurch.

Christchurch

June 8, Flying from Auckland to Christchurch, arriving at 1.45pm. Firstly went to stay with a fellow artist, Robyn Webster, and her partner, a sculptor, the late Llew Summers. Llew had built the house in Mt Pleasant, where they were living, and it is a beautiful art piece in itself. The house, is also called ‘Castle in the Sky’, is built over seven levels. It was good to spend some time with them, and in their house full of art. They happened to be hosting a house concert that evening, so I didn’t have to go far to hear some eclectic local music by candlelight.

June 9, on the next part of the journey to see and hear the teachings of the Dalai Lama at CBS Arena, at 10am. I don’t know what happened in there, but afterwards I felt really good. And was practically skipping along the street with my travel bag. I noticed the audience afterwards felt considerably ‘lighter’. It was in a big stadium and you could see him sitting with the other monks who travel with him, and then there was a big screen behind him. An Explanation of the Four Noble Truths and a Public Talk.

Springfield

Then I caught a bus to Springfield, and stayed at the YHA Springfield, the staff were very friendly. The fire was going there, as it was a cold wintry evening. There is a large donut sculpture sitting in the town, as the Simpsons producers send one to all the Springfield towns around the world! I was on my way the next day to Te Kohanga.

Te Kohanga

10 June – A New Moon with Matariki – beautiful day – I was there for five hours.

The next morning I was booked in for an early pick up from Springfield. A shuttle van got me to the area of Flock Hill, the driver dropped me off on the roadside and Castle Hill was before me.

When I arrived there was a blanket of fog, looked amazing, my first views of Te Kohanga. It was quiet and still, no one else around, and also quite cold. I looked like I was in the movie Vigil when I arrived as I was all rugged up. The fog lifted later and the sun came out to visit, so it got really warm.

In 2002, the Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, visited. He described this unique place as ‘the Spiritual centre of the Universe’. He reportedly at the time, didn’t resonate with the energy of Christchurch, and was drawn instead to the boulder field at Castle Hill.

If your not a fan of rocks then look away, as there are lot here…

The Waitaha called the area ‘Te Kohanga’ or ‘birthplace of the Gods’. It had astronomical significance as a key ‘observatory’ for the coming weather predictions. Many of the population migrated from the coast in summer. Supporting this role, and tending the sacred vegetable of the kumara. The limestone geology was seen as ancestors, and sacred due to the eons of creatures whose remains had built up the rock since ancient times.

“Within these high mountain ramparts stood the greatest school of learning in the land and maybe in the world. Here, the old lore, the most sacred knowledge of all, was taught and stored. Here Waitaha placed their cosmology, their understanding of creation, for all who visited to see and record.”

‘In Search of the Southern Serpent’
by Hamish Miller & Barry Brailsford

The light language is now flowing out, and there were lots of songs too. As I had started speaking it that year, with singing in my everyday when I walk down the street. With LL coming forth in certain places, I also spent a lot of time in the sun with different rocks, and really felt the energy there. Lying on these rocks, felt like a recharging in a way and I felt somewhat energised after my time spent surrounded by these sacred rocks and tones they hold.

There was one rock on the left hand side entering, that I could sense quite strongly – the same size as all the others really. And then the clearing later – with rocks in a circle – lots of mahi around the outside – bringing voice/toning, and sitting and standing in certain areas.

The energy at Castle Hill is what I would imagine Lemurian energy to feel like. On my travels there have been two other places that I have felt this same energy, Castle Lake at Mt Shasta, and Amaru Muru in Peru. For some reason these three places, held the same energy for me. It is a peaceful energy.

Before going to Castle Hill I had read ‘Sunshine before the Dawn’ by Judy Satori, also in this book is written about Lemuria and the significance of Te Kohanga. Gary Cook speaks about it on facebook here

Stayed the night at Springfield Backpackers again, by the fire. A bird flew ahead of me for ages walking along the road when I was walking afterwards. It was beautiful, it was an amazing day, and I only saw two or three people from afar all day.

Christchurch

The next day I bussed back to Christchurch, and stayed the night at Dorset Backpackers. The next day with a walk around Christchurch city, a city that was shaken by an earthquake on Feb 22, 2011. Spaces that are being reclaimed. A city that has felt so much. Reconstruction and remembrance in the form of art. There was interesting types of construction happening, one such remembrance in the form of a cardboard cathedral.

12 June, 14.45 with a flight back to Auckland and the North Island.

Lake Rotopounamu 2012

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Posted on December 24, 2012 by nicolag33

Dec 16, I Flew in from Uluru to Auckland late and caught the bus into town to meet with my brother Matt, on K Road. I went to stay at his flat. I was thankful as I had a room, his flatmate was away and I was pretty tired, so it was good to relax there! A few days later I caught a bus to Katikati to see my parents, Colleen and Lawrie. My mum thought I would at least be there for my birthday, but spirit had other plans to follow at this time, (so sorry mum… but I was off again!)

On the 21st of December, my parents kindly dropped me early in Tauranga, and I caught a bus to Turangi. I felt guided to go to Rotopounamu and be there for the Solstice, the precession of the equinoxes. And this also fell on my birthday in NZ, on the 22nd of December. According to Robert Coon, the Rainbow serpent dips under New Zealand and this sacred lake is the water element of the earth. I had just followed this line from Glastonbury, to Bali to Uluru.

I had been in contact with Ian from the Samurai Lodge backpackers with emails before arrival, and he had said he could transport me to the lake for $5. Ian was extremely friendly. I got there, and he asked if I had a license, I said ‘yes’. He then asked if I had it with me, I said ‘no’, he said, ‘doesn’t matter’, and threw me his car keys! I hadn’t planned on going there on the 21^st upon arrival, but spirit had other ideas! Three others from the hostel came too and it was not far to drive from the hostel. We all put $5 petrol in each too, we did a loop on the way and went past a marae, and had a look from the outside.

It was a great day, with a young Canadian couple and a young German lass, none of us had been to the lake before. Its an hour and a half walk around it. I ended up going three days on the trot, the 21st, 22nd and 23rd of December 2012.

When we arrived at a clearing on part of the lake with the most beach, there were many people meditating, concentrating quietly on the lake. There was about twenty people and looked like different nationalities. I asked the others if they would like to do one, as they said they had never seen anyone meditate before. I felt guided to do this. So I said ‘I know it sounds weird, but if you would like, to send as much love as you can to the middle of the lake and into the water’. We all did this together.

We had such a lovely walk around, there are some fantastic trees and foliage in there. Dreamland. I have heard it said that there are evidently four tributary streams that enter the lake, but it is unknown where the water goes to. And filling a crater nestled into the western side of Mount Pihanga, the lake covers one square kilometre. The name means, ‘roto’ (lake) and ‘pounamu’ (greenstone).

From the lookout we stopped at on the way back, this hill or volcano, not sure what the name of it is, but has an interesting shape to it. And where we stopped there was lots of fog, it looked really amazing.

At one of the lookouts there was a lot of fog…

22^nd Dec – The next day was my birthday, 42^nd. It was the procession of the equinoxes. And as I found out later this is when the earth raised its frequency. This was the day that had been been prophesised.

I went up Mt Tongariro with Ian whom runs hostel and other backpackers in his van and some of his children, heck what an amazing place, molten rock, where some of the Lord of the Rings footage was shot.

And then he dropped me back off at the lake again, it was slightly rainy but it cleared. I had a swim, like the day before. I didn’t see many people. On the three days I went around, twice I think it was anti-clockwise and once clockwise.

There was a tree that I had felt a very strong energy by, and was guided to be at that spot for a long time. A couple whom had been on the track also, gave me a lift back to Turangi town ship.

The next day, I went back to the Lake again for the third day, and a swim again. I found a lift back to the hostel with a German traveller, as he was leaving the lake track at the same time I was. I picked up my bag at hostel and caught the bus to Tauranga. My brother Matt kindly picked me up and took me back to KatiKati, for a belated birthday dinner with my family.

Uluru 2012

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Posted on December 15, 2012 by nicolag33

I arrive at 12 midday on the 12/12/12 … and I knew something was up!

The flight left Perth at 23.15 pm on December 11, towards Ayers Rock… Uluru! The flight I had found that was the cheapest, flew me to Sydney first. So I randomly flew over the rock and then back again with Virgin Australia. The flight was scheduled to land at 11.45 am, the flight was late arriving…

We touched down at 12 midday, on the 12/12/12, maybe I was in the right place at the right time! Flying over the rock as we approached, a Japanese women sitting near me and myself were exclaiming with joy and happiness at seeing it below us and all the red earth.

Stepping out of the airplane to stand at the top of the plane stairs, seeing it and sensing its energy right in front of me was an incredible experience. In that its energy felt very powerful, like a battery pulsing. No wonder some say it is the solar plexus chakra of the planet, the power – point. There was an Aboriginal television station NITV launching that day in Uluru, with a concert in the evening. I had met some people on my flight whom were heading to the launch.

I went to stay at the Outback Resort, in the dorm accommodation – I had a reservation, but when I booked in, I had trouble my card for some reason. So I found free internet in an air conditioned lounge in the resort and skyped with my parents. Asking if they could transfer funds and I would pay them back, they were fantastic and said they could. This was the first time this had happened. Because I was organizing all this, I wasn’t in bed asleep, after being awake all night; but there may have been a reason for this happening, with the chain events that unfolded…

I went to sit outside and I sat next to and met a lovely man called Brian Butler. He was waiting to catch a bus to the free launch concert for the first Aboriginal tv station. He gave me his card, he is an important ambassador for Aboriginal rights. I could tell he was well connected. And Brian introduced me to a woman called Lorraine, she was the artist in residence there at the time.

After heading back to my room for a rest, I went back later to see if I could go on the bus to the concert, but I didn’t get one, then realizing it was for the best as I was very tired. I enjoyed watching the live feed on television at the hostel, before heading to bed.

The next day, because the free internet room was much cooler than the outside… hot! I went there to internet surf. And messaged with Joy Phoenix online, and connected in with her from Uluru. experiencejoy

The 14^th was my last day, and the day I had planned to get closer to the rock. Its presence can still be felt strongly from the resort, and it can been seen, as well at Kata Tjuta from a look-out at the backpackers.

In the afternoon, I went to an Aboriginal dance performance outside, and found myself going up to join in and dance at the end. Lorraine, whom I had met the day before had seen me and came to say hello. I asked her in the conversation if she was driving to Uluru – she said ‘I am, and there is also a sunrise meditation, would you like to come?’ ‘YES’! She said ‘I will just call someone and ask’. Shortly after, she handed me the cell phone. A voice spoke to me, and I nearly cried, as the voice was so beautiful and clear, its resonance was unlike any voice I had heard. It was a man’s voice; he said ‘you are welcome to come to the meditation’. I was so happy! I handed the phone back and she said ‘do you know who that was’? I said I didn’t have any idea, she said ‘Uncle Bob, the caretaker of Uluru’!

So, next morning Lorraine picked me up at about 4.45am where I was staying at the backpackers, the Outback Pioneer Lodge. Driving on the way there was a barrier, the toll booth, where an entry fee is paid to go to Uluru. It wasn’t open yet, and we had to get there for the sunrise meditation. Other cars were waiting, as it should have been open by that time; she drove around it, up and over the curb!… Ah such fun, and very Dukes of Hazard, it really did felt like we were on a mission. I think Uncle Bob is in charge of the toll booth anyways. She said she thought she was a walk in.

So we got to Uncle Bobs house, he greeted us and there were introductions. He had a real presence. He had people staying, as he has an open door policy. People on the spiritual path from all over the world stay with him, listen to his teachings and hear his wisdom. We drove in two cars to the place for sunrise meditation. It was called Sunrise Hill or something like that if I remember rightly. Which was on Aboriginal land, a place where tour buses can not go. Uluru sat there in front of us, charging out. An American camera crew, (a couple making a documentary), filmed us as we did the group meditation. Guided by Uncle Bob, there were six of us, a meditation to the four directions. There was an incredible sun-rise, Uncle Bob said he had not seen one like that before.

Then back to Uncle Bob’s, then he took some of us, out in his car. Less Lorraine, she stayed behind, as she was helping him with some cleaning for payment. Uncle Bob took us to see some of the Aboriginal land. Where they have been guiding groups as to the ancient ways, we saw the labyrinth from above.

In Honour of Bob Randall, I filmed this video in which he shares the Kanyini principles. Which are depicted in this labyrinth on sacred land. Kanyini is the Aboriginal teachings of unconditional Love. Based on four principles passed down from the Aboriginal elders.

Then back at Uncle Bob’s, he played us the song he wrote about the Stolen children. Here is a link to him singing the song, Brown Skinned Baby He is well known in Australia for this song, and he shared the story behind it, in that it was his story, We were all very touched, and there were were not many dry eyes. It was an honour to be there.

Australia 2012 new 2 — Lorraine, Adrian, and another lady after the sunrise meditation

I had brought small snacks to share and we had a bit of food together, we donated something to Bob for taking us out. After goodbyes, as I was leaving with Lorraine, Uncle Bob called to me and gave me a signed paperback of his short stories. There was a warmth that surrounded him.

On the drive back, Lorraine parked and we walked not far to the big rock Uluru, then she went on out for more of a walk, I stayed where I was; it was less hot and there was shade there. I was guided to hold the rock and tone. I was the only one there, and I let out as much sound with resonance as I could.

Then I was being called, it was time to go, jump back into the car and get out of the extreme heat, back to pack; to leave the next morning for New Zealand!

Australia 2012 new 4.JPG — Uncle Bob Randall and me

Uncle Bob Randall did many great things for the civil rights movement in Australia. He featured in John Pilger’s films “The Secret Country: The First Australians fight back” and “Utopia”. He passed over on May 13th, 2015.

Robert James “Bob” Randall was an Aboriginal Australian elder, singer and community leader. He was a member of the Stolen Generations and became an elder of the Yankunytjatjara people from Central Australia.

Australia 2012 new — Lorraine and I after the sunrise meditation

Leave Ayers Rock 12.20 pm the next day, arrive back in to Auckland, NZ, that night at 12.35am.

Bali 2012

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Posted on December 7, 2012 by nicolag33

Ubud and its Flowers

30 Nov – Arrive in Bali midday (from London with Malaysian Airlines). From a rainy England, to an incredibly scorching hot mid-day Bali. I had my long winter boots on, as I had no room in my bag for them! Moz in his taxi, picked me up from the airport and took me through the busy traffic to Ubud. Where he was the driver for the White Lotus Oasis, where I was booked in. It was a lovely room, with flowers on the pillow, (flowers are placed with care everywhere in Bali). I went to sleep early. Sandeh came down to greet me, the lady whom runs the bnb. This is the reason I ended up in Ubud. In that, before coming to Bali, I had googled; yoga and Bali, to see what came up, and it had brought me to her link. I didn’t know anything about Ubud before coming. On the plane, I sat beside a woman whom knew Sandeh, a small world, yes.

Dec 1 – yoga at 10.30am, free at White Lotus on the 3rd floor, in a lovely enclosed rooftop. But I nearly fainted as it was so hot and I was still jetlagged I guess. And a massage treatment at 3 pm. I went out for dinner with Sandeh that night at fantastic restaurant across the road, I went there a lot, they did amazing tempeh. Savannah Moon it is called.

Dec 2 – Meditation day, there was a course led by Sandeh at the White Lotus, on the top floor, a day course, it was really good. I went out for dinner afterwards, with some of the others on the course, it was amazing food. (Bali is really all about delicious food). Sandeh had learnt from Osho, lots of releasing/dance.

Place where I stayed in Ubud first, White Lotus

Dec 3th, I was aware on that day that there were 3 stars lining up at Giza. I went back for more Yoga at 10 am, on the rooftop at White Lotus. There are two rooms available for rent at White Lotus. It is a lovely place to stay and I met the women from the other room, Raine, whom was from South Africa.

That week, we went to see Ketut Liyer, the medicine man and traditional healer. At his family compound, where there is a raised terrace and it is open. You wait your turn, and watch as he treats other people. Went on the back of a motorbike with Raine, on Sandeh’s recommendation. For a treatment with this man, whom was very wise when it comes to healing. Ketut had a long stick, which he put exactly on my foot at a pressure point and I felt a huge pain came through! He said ‘connected’ and ‘electric’ when scanning my body system, checking before treatment, as I sat in front of him. Then when I was lying down on mat for further treatment, He kept saying “You know what you have to do don’t you”… I said Yes, yes… but really I have no idea, or maybe I do. I understand better now what he might have been referring to. He had a great presence and it felt good to be around him. He did a kind of sequence over the ovaries and stomach. He said other things I didn’t quite understand at the time, it was very quick. I felt a lot better afterwards. He is the healer whom is in the book ‘Eat, Pray, Love’. He passed over in 2016. Rest in Peace.

Bali 15 — Filling up the bike with more petrol – Bali styles!

Bali 18 — The Balinese staff at the Organic cafe, told us all about coconuts and how long they take to grow, made me appreciate them even more!

Raine and I went for a walk to an organic café not far from where we were staying. A beautiful walk through the rain forest and rice fields, really nice. It poured with rain when we had our lunch, and looked very beautiful landing in the ponds, and then stopped when we left.

Dec 5 – I left White Lotus to move down the street to another place, as I had only booked in for a certain amount of nights, found a nice place for the last two nights. This place had a pool too. During this time I also had a healing massage with local man ‘Hands’, whom Sandeh had recommended. He was a real healer. And also on the 5^th I had a body exfoliate, the first time I had ever had one of these, you leave with the feeling that a lot of stuff has been scrubbed off! I visited the Monkey Temple too.

Bali 16 — Ubud Artist, his work is on the top. I really liked his paintings. I asked him if I could take a photo of him and his work. Unfortunately I dont have his name. There are a lot of painters and carvers in the Ubud area.

When in Bali, whilst on the internet, I happened upon a map by Robert Coon, that described the Rainbow Serpent lines – male and female, around the earth. http://www.earthchakras.org 

It felt ground breaking to find this map, as I had read earlier that Glastonbury may be the heart chakra and Uluru, the solar plexus. I had booked this trip to go to these places for that reason, but I had no knowledge that Bali was significant, and was one of the two points on the earth where the male and female lines crossed. It seems I was following the female line – that also dipped under New Zealand. I had just been to Glastonbury and was on route to Uluru. So I researched the holy places and temples in Bali, on these lines, and I booked a day trip. The trip included the places of Tirta Empal and the Besakih Temples.

I also lost my credit card, as I had left it in a machine/visa on this day. (The machine there gives the cash first, and then the card). And I couldn’t find my back up card for some reason. But I had no time to get stressed. I had booked the Temple tour earlier, and already paid for it. And this was the most important thing for me, to get to that tour.

6 December – The Day trip – The driver to us took us first stop to Goa Temple (I didn’t go into this one). We were each to wear a sarong as this was custom to cover up when entering temples.

Pura Tirta Empal

Then to Tirta Empal – which means holy spring in Indonesian. It is a Hindu Balinese water temple where people go for purification. Many were bathing in the waters of the Spring when we were there. I drunk the Spring waters from here, I was the only one, the others didn’t, bathed my legs and filled up my water bottle. Where Balinese Hindus go for ritual purification.

Then to a place that grew and made coffee, cacao, vanilla, ginger, mmm (we got to try samples of them) Then to to a lookout of Mt Ubur, to view the Sacred Mountain, this mountain has a real presence.

Besakih Temples

Then to the Mother Temples – Besakih, the energy there was intense. There was one spot where I felt the energy was very heavy. I brought my crystals with me, and they were a part of it, in that they helped me in these spots – there was one spot near the base – where I walked around in a circle motion a lot – and stood there for a long time, before I felt it shifted or moved, it was at lower ground level.

Then to Lunch – it rained a lot, whilst at lunch, it looked beautiful, looking out over the rice paddy fields and then when we left the rain cleared. Was the way for this trip the rain cleared at the right times. I did not eat there, as I had the credit card situation, which meant I had no lunch, I fasted. Didn’t matter, I was happy. I meditated there.

Khunkan Temple

Then to last temple, Khunkan, which had quite a different energy, very peaceful. Even though Dutch Immigrants in 1908 came in with their guns and took over the Balinese place there. The Balinese people are very resilient. The sun came out just as we entered the temple.

Bali 33 — Some of the others from the tour in our Sarongs, at Khunkan Temple

Bali 34 — Busy intersection that you could see from Khunkan Temple.

Then I was dropped off later and said goodbye to everyone, then hallelujah, I found my back up card and it gave me some cash. I went to say goodbye to Sandeh and to let her know that I had found it, as she had been worried and in wonderment that I wasn’t stressed. Met two German guys at a restaurant up the road where I celebrated with a honey, lemon and ginger tea.

That night I dined again at Savannah moon, after fasting on this day, it was nice, the family knew me well by this time.

I packed my bags until late & didn’t sleep much, waking every hour, as I knew I was to be up early. Then ready to go at 4.15 am and picked up at 5am with Rudi, a local Balinese man. On his motorbike, me and my bags, as through narrow streets, then in his car and on to Denpasser Airport. Upon leaving Bali, I was feeling great warmth inside, that I had been given from the people and place, it was now flowering inside of me.

The trip to Bali really was an incredible experience. I was smiling more for it.
Dec 7, depart Bali 9am, for a flight to Perth, Australia, to visit my sister Sarah and her family.

Avalon 2012

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Posted on November 29, 2012 by nicolag33

Somewhere along the line, I had found out that Glastonbury is often termed as the heart chakra of the planet, and so had felt a calling to go there on my journey back to New Zealand. I flew into London and stayed in Brighton for two nights, then Swindon for a few nights. Then to explore Avalon, to the destinations of Avebury, Stonehenge, and Glastonbury. Staying in Bath and Chippenham over that time, and it was, safe to say, fairly epic.

Nov 22 – Early flight, 7.05am from Berlin to London Gatwick, with Easy Jet. Walking with my bag just after arriving at the airport, someone had dropped their precious duty free cigarettes (lots of them, I just walked on). I got on a train straight to Brighton, staying in a hostel. It was blustery by the beach, winds coming through, crashing waves. I stayed a few nights in Brighton. And whilst there it was nice to meet up with Simon Hall, we had both presented at an Art and Science Symposium in Dunedin. We met at Theatre Royal and went for a walk in the rainy English seaside weather. And later that day I had a chakra clearing with a healer in Brighton. Then bussed to Swindon on the 24th, to stay with someone through couch surfing. They were working and welcoming, and I slept a lot, as I was very tired!

AVEBURY

Nov 26 – Caught a bus at 7.30 am from Swindon and then to Avebury, brought my bag with me and stored it (the museum staff kindly looked after it) and so I was off to explore, it rained a lot.

Avebury is known as one of the best known prehistoric sites in Britain, and it contains the largest megalithic stone circle in the world. It is a Neolithic henge monument containing three stone circles.

My Lemurian Seed crystal broke in the middle of Avebury in the pub, getting some late lunch. (English staple – a Jacket potato). I dropped it and it broke in half on the floor. This crystal had travelled with me to many places, Guatemala and Sedona, and many places in Europe. Interestingly enough, this pub is in the middle of the Avebury stones energy zone.

Being at Avebury made for an amazing day, spending time by the stones. It is easy to explore and there are not many people about. And was shown how to dowse, at the shop there. As the St Michael ley line is evidently running strongly through Avebury. It had been raining, so ground was wet, there had been flooding in this area. I was given a lift to Silbury Hill by one of the shopkeepers, as we were talking and she mentioned that it would be good to go there. Because of the rain, Silbury Hill had a moat around it, which it usually doesn’t. Then later, bussed to Bath, as was staying at St Christophers Inn Hostel.

STONEHENGE

Nov 27 – Walked around Bath in the morning, then in the afternoon, went to Stonehenge! I had booked on a bus tour leaving from Bath at 1pm. I met a Japanese women also on the trip and we spent time together at the site. I was graced by the Prescence of the ‘stones’, and tapping into their grounded time.

Back in Bath, at around 5pm went to the ‘Cross Springs’ Roman Thermal Spa. As Bath is known for its Roman Baths, it sounded like a wonderful opportunity to soak. The Cross Bath is an open air thermal bath, that was originally a Celtic shrine, Aquae Sulis was developed around AD 60 by the Romans.

GLASTONBURY

Nov 28 – Big day – Bussed from Bath to Wells then to Glastonbury, took a while to get started there, as I was very tired, so I spent time buying food at the health food shop, and had a meal and a cuppa in a café. I was settling. This was the first time I had been to Glastonbury.

Glastonbury is a town steeped in myths and legends. And the Michael and Mary Ley line dip and dive through the Tor and other spots. When I moved again it was on the High Street, spirit guided me to stand on a spot there for a very long time, when it eased I moved away. The town is full of crystal shops. I headed to the information centre and found maps and such for my day of exploration. Glastonbury town is lovely and compact and so the sacred sites are all within walking distance.

Firstly I went to the Glastonbury Abbey. The ruins of the Abbey are huge, and it feels magical wandering around it. And it seems the Abbey has held legendary status as the earliest Christian foundation in Britain. It holds such a presence and there was a definite spot that I was guided to whilst wandering.

Glastonbury Abbey, Image courtesy of http://www.isleofalbion.co.uk

Then I found my way to the Chalice Well, such a peaceful sanctuary. I drunk lots of the sacred water that flows freely from the Well head there. Feeling into the earth energy at certain points, and meditated by the Well head. Spending time near the trees on the way in, and met a man sitting near the Chalice Well, although it is a quiet space, sometimes conversations can emerge.

Chalice Well Head – Image courtesy of the internet

From there I went up the Tor and saw the sun going down, it had been raining, so the backdrop was drop-flooded plains. It was an amazing sunset, and there was a group up there too admiring from the tower. It looked like an island again, as it once was before the plains were drained. By the way its a bit of a hike up and down the Tor.

Glastonbury Tor – Image courtesy of the internet

Then I quickly made my way to Wearyall Hill, as I wanted to get there before it was properly dark. The Holy Thorn tree was still there then, it was later chopped down. My inner guidance nudged me to let out sound, I knew nothing about toning or its importance then. I had not done this before, but there was an innate knowing and so I opened my mouth and let out tones over that hill.

It was getting dark when I came back down to catch the bus. I met a man at the bus stop, he was very interested when I told him about my journey and what I was learning about energy points. He got out his voice recorder and interviewed me! His name was Franz Graf, an Austrian man. Whom at the time was writing a PH.D. thesis, called. ‘Connection to the Earth: Pagans and “Earth Lovers” in the South West of England’. It is in German, and can be accessed here.

I had missed the last bus from Glastonbury to Bath, so had to get a bus to Bristol and then back to Bath. Then I picked up my bag at the hostel in Bath. Then another bus to Chippenham, to stay at Alex’s. We went out for dinner for an Indian meal. He was doing up an old stables, I think his parents had owned it, it looked really good. I had my own big room, (the room also had a well in it) but not for long! The next morning I was catching an early bus to the airport. I left some of the winter items, hat and scart there, as I was going to warmer climates.

Nov 29, caught bus at 5am to London Heathrow, for a 10.50 am flight with Malaysian Airlines to Bali.

Italy 2012

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Posted on November 6, 2012 by nicolag33

Italy opened my heart…

ROME

Oct 4, In Leipzig, I brought canvas, stretchers and paint, then dropped Graeme’s flat keys to his friends work. Then later that day flew to Rome! I was heading to Italy to do an arts residency. I cried on the plane, as the airline took the acrylic varnish paint, as it is liquid, and I had to pay extra baggage too, because of the canvas stretchers. That’s the way travel goes, but I was very tired, so a bit emotional already. When the plane landed, I felt I knew this place, even though it was my first time in Italy. It felt familiar, I knew the earth, I wanted to kiss it like I was the Pope or someone returning home. Emotions heightened, I had never had a feeling quite like this in my travels. That night I had booked to stay at M & J’s hostel in Rome.

The next day I went into town, to purchase more acrylic varnish. The art shop I was heading to, just happened to be right beside this amazing structure called the Pantheon. I didn’t know anything about it, and it caught me by surprise. An accidental tourist. It was incredible to be there, to look up through the circle roof, and see the sky, and see the circle of light from the sun moving slowly through the building.

TOFFIA

Then I caught a train to Fara Sabina, after nearly taking a few wrong turns. Toffia is 60km NE of Rome. I was heading to an arts residency at 33 Officianada – Toffia. One of the residency people picked me at Farra Sabina train station to take me to Toffia. I was holding on for dear life in this speedy journey, it seems that the notorious Italian drivers you see in the movies really are the real thing.

33OC Artist Residency is hosted in a converted 13th Century church, at Piazza Lauretana 3, Toffia. 33 Officina Creativa (33OC)

I banged my head walking up the stairs to the loft area where we were staying. I don’t know whether it was this that was the cause of the next part of the story. As on the 10th I got sick, and was in bed for over a week. Something happened, I don’t know what, like nothing I have ever had before and I hope I never have again. I could not sit up, could only lie down/intense pain in the middle of my head/stabbing. I didn’t want to eat.

Joy Phoenix helped me through this, we talked on Facebook. I had met her in Sedona, she is a fellow kiwi and a Shaman. She tapped in and said it was unlike anything she had seen before. And she said that she was given that all that week I was to practice this… I was not to give, but only receive. Anytime I felt like I should be giving, she said no not to, but to practice receiving and all that it is. It was one of the hardest experiences of my life. But I learnt a lot about the art of receiving.

I drunk a lots amounts of good water (walked up the road to get really good spring water, which was a bit of a mission). The village had a place you could collect it from, which I loved.

Oct 14, We all did Artist Talks, to describe what we do and what we would be doing in Toffia. I was still not feeling well, and it was difficult, but I did it! To a lovely, small audience. What we were saying was translated into Italian by Christine, for the locals there.

In the last week I was finally feeling better and produced the four paintings, I stretched the canvasses first. These four were a set that worked together. I painted these outside on the terrace and in the bedroom, as the lighting was good there.

Oct 28, was an open night, where we displayed the works, my four ‘Multi – Dimensional’ (1 to 4). In this series, the first painting is all black and white, and second painting is one third colour. The third painting is two thirds colour and forth painting is all colour. There are many layers of meaning in these paintings, as well as layers of paint, (ideas on moving through duality). I donated two paintings to the staff at the residency. And brought one home with me, taken off the stretcher, and the other I gifted to the man whom had helped me with Cranial Sacral therapy when I was sick.

‘Multi-Dimensional #2’, Acrylic on Canvas, 50 x 50cm

I loved walking around the town of Toffia, and twice a week or so, a man would come through the village in his van filled with fruit and vegetables. Locals would buy from him straight from the van. There was three other woman doing the arts residency at the time, a printmaker, a sculpture, and a multi media artist. I shared a room with one. A few of the other artists got bored in the small town and went to Rome to explore. I enjoyed spending time in the countryside, which wasn’t far to walk down to, and the foot of the town. There was one road going up in Toffia town and the same road back down, it is very picturesque, and movie scenic.

The food I made for myself was kind of a hodge podge, kiwi styles d.i.y. I remember an Italian eyes wide wondering what it was I was eating! As to Italians, there is certain ways to work with food. But I was still eating well, just kind of innovatively with what I had to work with.

SANTA CITTARAMA

Oct 31, the residency in Toffia finished, and I went to Santa Cittarama which is a Buddhist monastery for two nights. I bussed there, and left some belongings in Toffia. I was still feeling a bit wrecked, and the Buddhist monks give you a wee chore too, so this was a push, but I did it. Me and this other lady had the random job of sweeping the outside, places that really didn’t need sweeping. At other times we would also meditate with the monks in the meditation room. Before I left, I went on a wee tour around the environs with some Italians there, it is so old, and there are ruins where people had been buried in the rocky walls. We saw a human skeleton in one part, something I had not seen before. It was quite eerie. There was a cave there where the monks in times gone by use to meditate.

Nov 2, G and his sister, kindly picked me up from Monastery, went to Toffia for Christine’s Christmas party. I gave him his painting, as he helped me with a Cranial Sacral treatment. I stayed the night at the 33 Officianada lodgings again, and met the next batch of artists whom were there.

ASSISI

Nov 3, Got a bus to Farra Sabina then trains to Assisi, stayed at a hotel place, that I had previously booked. The next day I walked around Assisi. Photos to come.

This about Assisi ley lines, from https://www.shelegends.com/post/ley-lines-in-italy

‘Assisi also sits at the intersection of two powerful energetic pathways that are believed to form a powerful vortex of healing energy at their intersection. Since pre-Etruscan times, the area where Assisi lies has been revered as a significant spiritual site. Consequently, it is home to several ancient temples and shrines dating back thousands of years.

Founded on the site of an ancient spring, Assisi has been a place of healing and purification since the pre-Etruscan period. After the Etruscans left, a temple to the goddess Minerva was erected by the Ancient Romans who sought to protect the ancestral power that permeated the sacred waters.

When the Christian church arrived in Assisi in the 4th century, the cave and spring were dedicated to St. Francis. The spring then became one of Italy’s most important pilgrimage sites and eventually was encompassed as part of the Basilica di San Francesco, which was built around the grotto in the 13th century.

Many miracles and supernatural events have taken place at the Basilica complex over the last centuries, and it is said that St. Francis himself performed miracles at this sacred water source, whose waters are said to heal the sick and bring good fortune.‘

BACK TO ROME

Nov 4, Getting on the 6pm train back to Rome, it seems the same new friend that I had met on the train to Assisi, was on the train again back again. She was from Iraq, and her sister, so that was good, as it was a joy talking to her. Stayed at M and Js Hostal again in Rome. It was lovely to roam around Rome, it was lightly raining, so I was under umbrella. People rushing past on their phones talking loudly and passionately. Food, was hard to find something that wasn’t Pasta or Pizza, as Italians like their Wheat, but when I found something it was worth it and delicious.

The next day I walked to the Colosseum as it wasn’t too far from the Hostel. And then I went to find the pyramid! Someone had told me about it before I got to Rome, and I knew I had to go to it. I spent lots of time around the Pyramid of Cestius. This is intriguing as part of it sits in a busy passage of roads and cars. Placed in stillness and these cars in constant movement. And had an easy day, in preparation for the next day. As on Nov 6, went ‘in’ to the Vatican, did what needed to be done, as had been guided to go there, to help with shifting energy. Mission complete. I didn’t want to go to the Vatican really. But of course \, the Sistine Chapel painted by Michelangelo is breath-taking and beautiful.

Italy opened my heart. It wasn’t a person, it was the place. Parts of me that I didn’t realize were closed, doors of my heart seemed to rip open.

Nov 6, I caught a plane that night from Rome, arriving back to Leipzig.

Amsterdam 2012

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Posted on October 2, 2012 by nicolag33

Jacque and her flatmate Andy, at her lovely flat

Sept 25, a fun carpooling ride from Brussels to Amsterdam with Castor and crew. Where I went to stay with a friend and old room mate from Dunedin, Jacque. I was happy to see her again. She owns her flat on NIEwezijds Voorburgwal. And we did a deal, I was to do cleaning in the afternoon in exchange for a room. As it just so happened, she was in between room mates, so I had my own room downstairs for a week, and greatly appreciated this.

Jacques flat is the middle one here, with the brown and white stripes, she has the first two floors, I stayed in the bottom room

Whilst in Amsterdam, I met up with Timon in the afternoon at his music school. I was very tired though. I had met him at the Angel Art Festival in Portugal, with a lot of other Dutch people. Such as Meta, and we went out dancing with one night, as it was her birthday. At the park on the way to meet Meta, I was a bit lost and asked for directions, and a women gave me a double on her bike! One day, went to on a mission to a HUGE mall, four miles out on the train, to get a new computer charger.

Andy, Jacque and me, Jacque is abstaining from eating herrings.

One day went to the markets with Jacque and her Portuguese room mate Andy. We ate herring because its some sort of tradition. We also went to a Portuguese restaurant one evening and they showed me briefly the red light district.

Whilst in the Dam, also met up with Maarten one morning. And later that day went to Malinda’s, near the sea. (two more festival friends met in Portugal). We rode bikes to the seaside. I caught the train out and back. Was cheeky though and only brought a one way ticket, and spent some time in the toilets on the back, so that I could dodge the ticket person! Really do have to make peace with being a cheap skate every now and then.

Me at a sea side cafe, an afternoon visiting Malinda

Jacque also one night took me to a Vipassana Meditation group that she sometimes attends at a private residence, as Jacque also practices Vipassana. Jacque leaves no stone unturned as a tour guide, she took me to a coffeeshop as she wanted me to try a hash cookies with her. With many different flavours and varieties on the menu. Whilst in Amsterdam its kind of the thing to do. I really liked the vibe of Amsterdam and could understand why she lived there.

On my last day in Amsterdam, I continued the path I had followed of Van Gogh and went to the Hermitage to see the works of Vincent Van Gogh exhibition. Beautiful.

Did a big mission out to the largest shopping complex I had ever seen, as I brought a new charger for my computer, and couldn’t find one locally with the right fitting.

Oct 2, I was travelling from Amsterdam to Leipzig. Leaving Jacques house with her in the morning, and we said our goodbyes at the train station, as she was on her way to work. Jacque was quite intrigued at my small luggage and handy packing, and insisted on photos being taken. It really was lovely to see Jacque again, to enliven the spirit.

Brussels 2012

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Posted on September 25, 2012 by nicolag33

Sept 23, in a carpooling ride with Celine, from Paris I got to Brussels. I went to stay with a couple I knew from Dunedin, Chris is a kiwi and Sarah is from Brussels. They were both very busy studying, but found time to share dinner and chats. It was good to see them, and I stayed two nights. During the day I went wandering, exploring the city. I enjoyed an exhibition ‘mind scapes’ at E-Space.

Brussels has a very multi-cultural flavor and life to it, it seems that many have migrated to the city. With approximately 62% foreign-born residents, the city ranks second only to Dubai, which has 83% foreign-born residents.