Home Is Where The Ship Is

2011 Crystal World Cruise

Ill take things that I know for $20,000 Alex

2015 Holland America World Voyage

The Med, Norway And Beyond

Suez Canal Crossing

Suez Spelt Backwards IS Zeus

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Wednesday, January 1, 2025

Norway's Ecstasy

Narrow Road to the Interior

Narrow Road to the Interior

Four Seasons in One Day

Mother Nature laughs out loud. Life is forever. I’m past the point of no return. Instead, I’ll concern myself with the best way of moving forward.

Mindless Purity

Putting the odd back in God, I recall: Before, "Norway Earth Goddess" was just a yuppie salad dressing at Whole Foods. I never thought people died—they just went to organic health food stores. And that Japanese guy who always wins the hot dog eating contest? Clearly, the antichrist.

Today, as I kayak in the fjords, I observe the sun, the water, the green—all in perfect flow. I whisper to myself, “Yes, indeed, all this belongs to me.” But more than that, I realize I play a role in its appearance.

A Glimpse of the Universe

In fleeting moments, I catch a glimpse of the deeper, random chance encounters of my "3-pound universe" (my brain). Mother Nature and Father Time are no longer external forces but mere facets of my subjective consciousness. This realization feels immortal.

Epiphany

The epiphany strikes: Old-school selfishness says, "I am the center of the world." The New World Order whispers, "I create the world." Space and time aren’t objects—they’re tools my brain uses to arrange reality. Without "me," they don’t exist.

Father Time doesn’t end; he simply reboots. Like turtles carrying their shells, we carry space and time within us. Without mind, matter doesn’t "matter"—it hovers as waves of probability. There is no absolute grid independent of thought.

Conclusion

Though our bodies self-destruct, the 20-watt fountain of energy in our brain doesn’t vanish at death. Instead, Father Time restarts the cycle. The universe resides not outside us but within. What the bleep?

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Thursday, December 26, 2024

A One Man National Geographic

The Geography of Bliss

The Geography of Bliss

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It was the best of vibes. It was the worst of vibes. We waited for 2020 to have that perfect vision. Nobody could predict what they'd be seeing and doing last year - washing our hands, wearing a mask and social distancing because of the global pandemic. Normally, we would be sailing in the Norwegian Fjords, The Baltics or through Alaska's wildlife super highway, and Glacier Bay. Tis the season but all fleets have come to a grinding halt. And then we found Fair Isle, which is like a cargo ship, surrounded by sea.

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Home Is Where My Laptop Is-Being Digital In Stockholm

Ed Reif 2.0: The Startup - Seeking Change and New Experiences

Ed Reif 2.0: The Startup - Seeking Change and New Experiences

Stockholm was my port of call during the summers of 2009 and 2010, but my connection with the city goes back further. I spent three months there in 1996, navigating the usual obstacles: fatigue, ambiguity, and the danger of being too enthusiastic. Along the way, I picked up some Finnish jokes, like this one: “The Finnish man loved his wife so much, he almost told her.”

Discovering Digital Inspiration

Serendipity led me to an English bookstore where I found one of the most influential books of my life: Nicholas Negroponte’s Being Digital. This treatise on the shift from atoms to bits was a primer on how interaction, entertainment, and information would converge. Ironically, the book’s digital version never goes out of print, proving its thesis in real time.

Boom! The concepts of “napsterization” (cutting out the middleman), “tivoization” (time-shifting on-demand entertainment), and the 24-hour news cycle were reshaping the world. Negroponte, the visionary behind it all, predicted, “Computing is not about computers anymore. It is about living.” His idea of a “Daily Me”—a personalized digital newspaper—became the inspiration for this very blog, where “everyone is my neighbor.” Hence, the title: Hotel @nyware.

Personal Growth Through Technology

Being Digital wasn’t just a book; it was a glimpse into a decentralized future that was already here but unevenly distributed. My personal “wired awakening” came in 1998 when I began teaching visual literacy. I used the internet to engage students, shifting focus from “space” (the printed page) to “time” (web-based timelines and interactive media). This experience cemented my belief that good education is also good entertainment.

“Nobody remains quite what they are when they recognize themselves.”

Opportunities Beyond the Classroom

The flexibility of teaching—June, July, and August—freed me to explore new gigs. I consulted for Creative Planet, learning about production tools for the movie industry and the early joys of free downloads via Napster and Limewire. I also got my SAG card as a film and TV extra, playing roles like an attorney in a horror movie. The ability to shoot, edit, and send dailies remotely using Macs and FTP sites amazed me. It was a digital revolution in action.

Sweden’s Impact on My Digital Journey

In 1996, my “analog eyes” couldn’t fully grasp the digital revolution. Sweden wasn’t solving my digital “problems,” but it was subsidizing them. I accessed free ISDN internet at Stockholm University’s library and relied on their “user-friendly” PCs. A random student even helped me set up my first email account—Hotmail, which I still use today. Tack sÃ¥ mycket, Stockholm!

Reflections on Doing Nothing

Sweden taught me the power of stillness. Doing nothing, often seen as subversive in American culture, became my greatest tool for reflection and growth. The days passed more slowly, and the language barriers made me more accessible to others. People stepped in to help, reminding me that connection thrives in the unfamiliar.

“The time I enjoyed wasting in Sweden wasn’t wasted time. I made great friends, read a book that changed my worldview, and got my first email account. I got wired!”

A Footnote to Hotmail

In 1997, I visited Hotmail’s office in Silicon Valley. To my surprise, it wasn’t a grand tech campus but a strip mall filled with stacks of microcomputers. This tiny operation was the birthplace of my virtual address, which I still “reside” at today. Two years later, Microsoft bought Hotmail for $400 million—a testament to the power of bits over atoms.

Today, I value my data far more than the physical devices that store it. This shift from the tangible to the digital aligns perfectly with Negroponte’s vision, proving that the future he predicted is now our reality.

© 2024 Reflections from the Road. All Rights Reserved.
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How Swede It Is

The Power of New: Sweden Through My Eyes

The Power of New: Sweden Through My Eyes

“Traveling, for me, is like flirting with life. It’s that fleeting yet exhilarating feeling of saying, ‘I want to love you, but I have to go.’”

A Land Beyond Stereotypes

When people think of Sweden, they often conjure images of frigid winters, ABBA, or those famously safe cars. My own “SAAB story” is one for the books, but there’s far more to this country than good looks and pop culture icons. I was determined to uncover Sweden’s essence, and my adventure started with a bike tour through the streets of Stockholm.

Stockholm on Two Wheels

Stockholm is a cyclist’s paradise. With bike paths crisscrossing the city’s many islands, it’s easy to explore its breathtaking beauty. Every time I got on my bike, I felt like the luckiest person in the world. Though Stockholm’s bike culture is impressive, it doesn’t quite rival Copenhagen, where there are as many bikes as people. Still, Stockholm’s streets offer an unparalleled riding experience—one that made me feel connected to the city in a unique way.

Moments of Serendipity

One of my favorite memories was stumbling upon an English bookstore where I discovered Nicholas Negroponte’s Being Digital. This groundbreaking book, a beacon of the information revolution, delves into how the worlds of interaction, entertainment, and information converge. It was a celestial coincidence, one that transformed how I viewed the digital world. Ironically, I didn’t even own a computer at the time. My digital awakening was still on the horizon, but Sweden gave me the first taste of what was to come.

Personal Growth in Unexpected Places

Sweden wasn’t just a destination; it was a catalyst for change. The slow days, the language barriers, and the newness of it all pushed me out of my comfort zone. It was a place where I could do nothing and yet feel like I was doing everything. Those moments of stillness—so alien to my American sensibilities—were transformative. They taught me that sometimes, doing nothing can be the most powerful thing of all.

“Nobody remains quite what they are when they recognize themselves.”

Sweden reminded me that happiness isn’t about where you are—it’s about embracing the journey and the endless possibilities that come with it.

© 2024 Reflections from the Road. All Rights Reserved.
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MT

3 Years of Magical Thinking @ Sea

3 Years of Magical Thinking @ Sea

“People say that what we are all seeking is a meaning for life. I don't think this is what we're really seeking. I think what we're seeking is an experience of being alive.”
— The Power of Myth by Joseph Campbell

This world cruise has been one of the most introspective and rewarding chapters of my life. It feels like I’ve hit pause on "Normal Life" to fully immerse myself in the adventure of traveling the world aboard another cruise ship. I call it PT—Permanent Travel—or "Mini Retirements." Sure, I haven’t been everywhere just yet, but it’s definitely on my list.

Roam Sweet Roam

As I document this journey—this round-the-world travelogue—I find myself saying, "Roam Sweet Roam." For me, home is not tied to an address but to my laptop. As a digital nomad, I thrive on being location-neutral, making anywhere and everywhere my @nyware. Whether it’s in the middle of nowhere or the center of everything, like Sri Lanka, I’ve discovered that a reliable high-speed internet connection is all I need to feel at ease. Here, I’m doing everything I’d normally do in the USA—but with a refreshing twist and at a fraction of the cost.

The Symbolism of the Elephant

Elephant

While in Southeast Asia, I’ve grown fond of elephants as symbols of strength, peace, and joy. In local culture, a laughing Buddha riding an elephant with children is a powerful emblem of happiness and prosperity. This resonates deeply with me as I reflect on the journey and the sense of abundance it brings.

“Surely, it’s the right desires that guide us to the right places. Nothing of importance ever happens by accident.”

Choosing Experiences Over Things

Hotel @nyware isn’t about collecting material possessions. It’s about choosing experiences over things and living a life enriched by travel and self-discovery. It’s not the same as buying a tourist package—it’s about looking into the metaphorical mirror to see who you are when you aren’t bound by your routines.

A New Perspective on Travel

Beyond physical travel, Hotel @nyware is a mindset. It’s not a lifestyle; it’s a way of seeing the world differently—a shift in values that naturally translates into action. Long-term travel isn’t about age, income, or belief systems—it’s about your attitude. And as they say, attitude determines altitude.

If I’ve learned anything, it’s that the unexpected only happens when I step out of my comfort zone. This journey is about being continuously curious and deeply engaged with my surroundings.

“I’m not just choosing experiences. I’m curating memories—memories of what I’ve done and of what I dream to do.”

Every day, I’m reminded that life truly is a beautiful journey.

© 2024 Hotel @nyware. All Rights Reserved.
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2011 Notes From The 110 Days World Cruise

2011 Blog Entries

2011 Blog Entries

  • Waikiki - Banyan Tree Hugger

    Standing under the sprawling banyan trees of Waikiki, I couldn’t help but marvel at their grandeur. These majestic trees are more than just a part of the landscape; they are living monuments to the enduring beauty of nature. Their shade offers solace, their roots ground the earth, and their branches invite me to slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate life’s simplicity. Waikiki’s banyan trees don’t just grow; they inspire me to grow, too—emotionally, spiritually, and environmentally.

  • Honolulu - Be(ing) There, Aloha!

    The spirit of Aloha is more than a warm greeting; it’s a philosophy. During my time in Honolulu, I found myself embracing this ethos of being present, connecting with others, and sharing kindness. Whether it was the soothing rhythm of the ocean waves or the smiles exchanged with locals, Honolulu taught me that being fully present is the greatest gift I can give myself and others. Aloha isn’t just a word; it’s a way of life.

  • Life of Pie - Ï€ and Unconscious Eating

    What do mathematics and pie have in common? More than you’d think. This post explored how Ï€, the symbol of infinite possibilities, parallels the choices I make around food. Too often, I eat mindlessly, unaware of the textures, flavors, and stories behind each bite. Inspired by this revelation, I began to embrace the art of conscious eating. Every meal became an opportunity to honor the cultural narratives and the love that go into food preparation.

  • Mele Kalikimaka - Write About Here

    Christmas in Hawaii is a sensory feast. The tropical twist on holiday traditions—from Santa arriving on a canoe to palm trees adorned with lights—creates a unique festive spirit. This year, I joined the locals in celebrating Mele Kalikimaka, a blend of Hawaiian and Western yuletide customs. Writing from the islands, I felt the warmth of community and the joy of creating new traditions that resonate with the spirit of Aloha.

  • The Aquatic Life - Dolphin Swim Club

    Swimming with dolphins is more than an activity; it’s a conversation with nature. In the clear waters of Hawaii, I had the privilege of experiencing the playful and intelligent world of dolphins. Their clicks and whistles seemed to tell stories of joy and freedom. This encounter reminded me of the importance of protecting our oceans and the extraordinary creatures that call them home.

  • Crystal Serenity World Cruise - Setting Sail (November 2010)

    As Cruise Director aboard the Crystal Serenity, I embarked on a 110-day World Cruise—a journey that would redefine adventure. From the moment we left Los Angeles, I felt the thrill of endless possibilities. The energy onboard was electric, with guests eager to explore the world and create unforgettable memories.

  • Bora Bora - The Infinity Pool (January 2011)

    Bora Bora was like stepping into a dreamscape. Its lagoon, often called nature’s infinity pool, sparkled under the sun, blending seamlessly with the horizon. I spent the day marveling at the vibrant marine life and embracing the serenity of this South Pacific gem. The local warmth matched the island’s beauty, leaving an imprint on my soul.

  • Moorea, Polynesia - I Am Paul Gauguin and So Can You (January 2011)

    Moorea’s dramatic peaks and lush greenery transported me into one of Paul Gauguin’s masterpieces. This was a place where art and life converged, inspiring me to see the world through an artist’s eyes. Each vista felt like a brushstroke on the canvas of my journey.

  • Sydney Harbor - "Con te partirò" (February 2011)

    Arriving in Sydney Harbor to the iconic views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge was breathtaking. The city’s vibrancy was matched by its welcoming spirit. I found myself humming "Con te partirò," moved by the harmony of nature and human ingenuity that Sydney embodies.

  • Milford Sound - Under the Waterfalls (February 2011)

    Sailing into Milford Sound felt like entering a sacred space. Towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls surrounded us, creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere. Standing on deck, I felt a profound connection to nature’s raw power and tranquility.

  • Napier, NZ - Got Sheep vs. Got Milk? (February 2011)

    In Napier, I was charmed by the juxtaposition of rolling sheep pastures and Art Deco architecture. The playful "Got Sheep?" culture here reminded me of New Zealand’s unique humor and deep agricultural roots. It was a delightful blend of the pastoral and the whimsical.

  • Goa, India - Happy Is Hippie (March 2011)

    Goa greeted me with its vibrant colors, from the spice markets to the golden beaches. The relaxed vibe of the region was infectious. As I explored its historic churches and coastal serenity, I understood why Goa has long been a haven for free spirits.

  • Cochin, India - Coconut Republic (March 2011)

    Cochin’s canals and coconut groves felt like stepping into a tropical Venice. The city’s blend of Indian and colonial influences offered a rich tapestry of experiences, from spice-laden cuisine to warm interactions with locals. Cochin embodied the heart of South India’s charm.

  • Cape Town - Swimming with Sharks (April 2011)

    Diving into the waters off Cape Town to observe sharks up close was both exhilarating and humbling. These apex predators showcased the balance of nature’s power and elegance. Cape Town itself, with its Table Mountain backdrop, remains one of the most stunning places I’ve ever visited.

  • The White Cliffs of Dover - A Grand Finale (June 2011)

    As the cruise came to an end, the White Cliffs of Dover offered a poignant farewell. Their stoic beauty reminded me of the resilience and timelessness of nature. Reflecting on the journey, I felt immense gratitude for the world’s wonders and the connections made along the way.

© 2024 Travel Blog | All Rights Reserved

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Norway Is Alaska WITH Balls!

The Arctic Circle: Sailing on Top of the World

The Arctic Circle: Sailing on Top of the World

Western Norway and Hardangerfjord

Posted by Hotel @nyware on June 29, 2015

“We shall not cease from exploration, / and the end of all our exploring / will be to arrive where we started / and know the place for the first time.”

- T.S. Eliot, The Waste Land

Norway is Alaska with balls.

At 20 years old — the "Old Age of Youth" — I could only accept this bold statement on blind faith, as I had yet to experience the truth behind the words. Home, as I saw it, was a place I wanted to leave as soon as possible, a place to escape in pursuit of new horizons.

There is something deeply human about the impulse to explore, to break free from the familiar. This urge to sail away is ancient, persistent, and universal.

Voyages trigger something called "psychological distance." The act of leaving familiar ground creates a jolt, an awakening that floods the brain with fresh ideas and perspectives. It's like wiring new neurons—neurons that fire together, wire together. And now that I have my dreamer-pilot's license, I am certain I will be "flying" once again.

For me, this shift in perspective begins the moment I board a cruise ship. Ships have always been an oddly lucid part of my life. Every journey I take aboard one seems to shift me in some way, and Norway has done it again.

As Karen Blixen so eloquently put it:

“The cure for anything is salt water: sweat, tears, or the sea.”
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