With Planet Earth in lockdown, our industry at a standstill and many of us in self-isolation or quarantine at home, or grounded, this is our blog for you – it’s a way to share stories within our community, to form solidarity and foster a sense of belonging.
Short essays on what we are each doing, how we are getting through this darkest hour in travel, how are we handling withdrawal symptoms from travel, what we intend to do with this down time, a word we want to focus on, a wish we have or simply, an important topic you want to share with your travel friends at this time.
Brett Dyason, co-founder & CEO, Hepstar
Grounded in Cape Town: Whiskey and skipping will get me through
It’s going on 11pm in Cape Town (writing this with a glass of whiskey so excuse the grammar). While everything seems to be going in the wrong direction (S%&T) I refuse to drown in negativity. Yes, I could think about the burn rate of our tech company, the probable cost-cutting or the panic of general society, but I am choosing to focus on what can be done now and making sure my headspace is clear and ready for action.
Now is the time for self-reflection, get out the bad energy and focus on the things that will make a real difference in my life and ultimately the company – I cannot control a pandemic! I have purchased a skipping rope to start skipping – something I have wanted to do for ages. For the moment I get cabin fever, stocked up on some whiskey (because I love whiskey, no other reason) and decided to tap into the books that I try read but never have time!
We are also organising group dates with friends; I might even try a virtual date – the possibilities are endless. At the end of the day, make every second count because no one is guaranteed tomorrow.
The passion thing: One trip and you’re hooked for life
I think we can all remember that first overseas holiday we went on? I certainly do, I was a bright-eyed bushed-tailed young lad, completely naïve, going to Thailand with my long term girlfriend.
I can almost remember it so vividly, everything was new to me in Thailand, the culture (the most amazing humble, friendly I have ever met), food (Thai crispy crepe), the night life (Bangla Road, Phuket), the environment (getting vacuumed by an elephant with no underpants – story for another time, it’s not what you are thinking), the landscapes (Phi Phi Island, no words can describe one of the most gorgeous places on this planet).
Once travel grabs you it’s addictive; there is no turning back and nine years later nothing has changed. To experience something new, with locals or friends you have made around the world, is something truly special and perhaps these words don’t explain the full context.
While we all go through isolation remember, the next trip is around the corner. I know I am planning something I have always wanted to do, explore Brazil and Argentina – it’s just a matter of timing now. Peace, love, tech and travel.
Note: We will be running this blog for as long as we need to, to get us through this. If you wish to contribute, please send your essays to Siew Hoon. Send images too, it’s your story.
