Posts Tagged ‘friends’

My last stop is China.  During my 10hr layover in Beijing, I met up with Richard, Julia and Chris.  We caught up over delicious Mongolian food and fire shots! We talked about their progress in school and my plans for Africa.

I headed to Xiamen the next morning, (more…)

I was pulling my suitcase up a hilly Vancouver street, when I was suddenly stopped by a bright light peeking up from behind a gap in a row of buildings.  The glass skyscrapers of downtown Vancouver were reflecting the warm orange hues of the setting sun and created a spectacular view.  The downtown panorama was only made more sublime by the buildings juxtaposition against a backdrop of gentle mountains.

But there is no allure of a place like that of its people and so I have to thank Serena and Kenley for making my trip to the city perfect. 

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The three days spent in sunny Miami was bliss. After an incomprehensibly chaotic week, it was nice to have a few days to laze around on some really pristine beaches. On land, Mike and I tore down South Beach on our little black beast of a scooter. At sea, we explored the sapphire waters with our snorkels. What really hit the spot was meeting up with Thai… on his bday no less! We celebrated with juicy steaks and Miami margaritas that dwarfed our faces. Too relaxed to write so I’ll let the pictures do the talking…

I decided earlier on that instead of holding a party in NYC, where friends would come together and bid me farewell, I would travel around the US and meet up with friends in individual cities.  Though some sneaky (but awesome) friends eventually planned a party, the Goodbye Tour is definitely a go.

The first leg of the journey took me to Charlotte, NC. Though me and Mike only spent one day at the birth city of Banc of America, we had a great time dining with pals, James and Gazi. Tender beef briskets goes well with a side of great conversation (and mac n’ cheese, potato salad and of course beer ).

James is one of the people behind my decision to journey to Africa.  I credit him for planting the idea that I should seriously consider opportunities outside of the US.  I am also glad I got to see G.Ho before his move to the land down-under. We chatted about our mutual interests in social enterprise and how he had spent a summer with Grameen Bank, the successful Bangladeshi microfinance institution that propelled Muhammed Yunus to international acclaim.  It is always great to chat with socent enthusiasts.

It’s been a tiring few days, but visitng Charlotte was worth it! Next stop:  Miami!!