Journal

As I prepare to leave the intense heat of Hyderabad and Karachi, the emotional farewells sharpen my resolve to build anew in the Netherlands.

Emotionally and physically drained, I find profound lessons in my mountain workouts and yearn for a balanced life where passion and work coexist.

Journeying again to Rakaposhi after 9 years, I realise the importance of visiting this mountain again which leaves me reborn and weeping at the base of its majestic peak.

I am moved by the incredible hospitality of the people of Gilgit-Balistan as I experience this region alone and get inspired by the wisdom of the locals here

Traveling through northern Pakistan with my family, I marveled at the stunning landscapes and glacial lakes, felt heartbroken by the pervasive litter, and rediscovered the cultural and regional contrasts that make this country so uniquely diverse.

Working in the mornings and reconnecting with friends in the evenings, I navigate Karachi's mix of memories, dysfunction, and resilience, finding solace in a small tea shop's generosity amidst the city's chaos and deepening my appreciation for its enduring spirit.

Seeing my parents and family in Hyderabad amidst the sweltering 46°C heat makes me feel both cherished and restless, as I savor their company, the incredible food, and the rare mango season, while grappling with the strangeness of being back after traveling so far.

Reflecting on my time in São Paulo, where I immersed myself in work and felt the city's stark inequalities, I experienced solitude and focus, contrasting sharply with the companionship of my recent adventures and the looming anxiety of visiting family in Pakistan's summer heat.

I’m caught between understanding and resisting my feelings after weeks of blurred adventures, parties, and profound contentment.

Returning to Santiago felt like coming full circle, as I reunited with familiar faces and serendipitously encountered friends, reinforcing the beauty of human connections and the deep need for friendship and relationships amidst the mysteries of life.

The last few weeks have shifted from outdoor adventures to long hours behind a computer, as I start exploring some ideas that motivate me while I traing in a gym, as part of an exploration towards an ideal life full of purposeful work and outdoor adventures.

Leaving behind Bariloche and Patagonia, I flew to the bustling city of Buenos Aires, where the vibrant chaos and diverse culture sparked my creativity and ambition, reigniting my passion for purposeful work amid a journey of self-discovery.

Leaving Piedra Parada, we chose to hitchhike to Esquel, and after hours of waiting, a kind Argentine couple gave us a ride, sharing local treats and warm conversations, reinforcing my belief in the goodness of people and the beauty of choosing kindness and curiosity over comfort.

Craving a return to Piedra Parada, I embarked on another week of climbing in the desert, embracing the raw beauty and camaraderie among fellow climbers, conquering my fear of heights, and finding deep contentment and strength in the purity of this shared passion.

Returning to Bariloche, I bask in a cozy, joy-filled routine of outdoor activities and serendipitous encounters, my belief in the goodness of people continuously reinforced, bringing a profound sense of contentment and calm amid life's uncertainties.

Encouraged by friends and fate, I ventured to the climber's paradise of Piedra Parada, where the breathtaking rock formations and the inspiring spirit of fellow climbers, especially the resilient 57 year old climber Mar, taught me the importance of prioritizing health and cherishing life's simple pleasures.

The past week in Bariloche brought a whirlwind of emotions, culminating in an unexpected and deeply moving stay with a selfless Christian climbing community, where I experienced profound love and generosity that re-inforced my faith in humanity.

Taking advantage of a brief window of good weather, I embarked on the Huemel circuit, finding joy in the solitude of nature, sharing food and culture on the trail, and reflecting on my identity and the path ahead, both uncertain and full of promise.

As I navigate the unpredictable weather and fleeting connections in El Chaltén, I grapple with loneliness and emotional turmoil, yet find profound inspiration in the resilience of those around me and a growing clarity in my own journey.

In just three days, El Chalten's breathtaking beauty, relentless adventures, and the camaraderie of fellow climbers have woven into my soul, making me marvel at my growth and the boundless compassion we all possess.

I read about the resilient natives of Tierra del Fuego, their ancient customs and harsh lives deepening my awe for the landscape and stirring gratitude for modern comforts, while wondering at the changes time has wrought.

Reflections on encountering violence on the street and the role we play in such situations.

I hike the O trek at Torres del Paine and in the week of hiking forge deep connections with fellow adventurers while reflecting on the absurdity of where a village boy like me is travelling.

Sorrounded by stunning Patagonian landscapes, I met passionate climbers in a hostel and reflect on what gives us purpose.

In Santiago, I found camaraderie and adventure at a hostel but after not finding a good camper van to buy I change plans and fly to Patagonia to start my sabbatical.