::scipio's adventures

There are always phases in life where everything seems to be possible, and nothing is routine or definite. When you're just in between them they feel very exciting and maybe a bit frightening. But once you look back you'll miss the freedom you had during that time.

There are less than 20 hours left until the departure for my Round the world-trip. I have no idea what awaits me or how and with which impressions or how much money I gonna return. People are wishing me a nice holiday. I think, this trip is definitely more than an holiday. It will shape me just how every other trip shaped me.

This is my motto for the next three months:

• Explore
• Meet
• Learn

I hope this post didn't get too trashy, but there simply has to be a philosophy or a strategy. More tangible reports will follow.

Stay tuned,
scipio

Tomorrow I'm heading up to Frankfurt for a Linux-exhibition. Finally all those little programs and projects that make up my OS get some sort of human face. Recently derStandard wrote that the main bias for Linux not being used in a business-environment is the shabby outfit, ie sandals and long hair. On Saturday Mark Shutterworth is giving a talk on his Ubuntu 6.06 aka "Dapper Drake".

Today I went to the travel office to check for an RTW-ticket. Since I've never been in a travel office before, everything is quite new for me. But it wasn't as bad as I'd expected. The lady seemed to know what she's doing and the ticket turned out to be cheaper than I had expected. We'll see. On friday she will mail me an offer.

I always knew it, but never could really believe it. The day is coming, when my time in the bl** army is over and I'm free of any obligations again. Free to go wherever I want.

Although I must admit that those 8 months had their positive aspects as well like:

• loads of stuff to eat
• 15+ hours of sleep every day
• more pocket money from the state
• zero responsibilities since someone else does all the thinking for you
• some witty guys whatsoever

But as I said, its like living in the golden cage. Trade your freedom for comfort and security. That's definitely not my thing. I'm more the one to life in a shabby tent, hitchhike, cook yourself, party till dawn, meet other cultures, be flexible, spontaneous, open-minded and above all: change location from time to time (and maybe return of stay longer if it's nice).

I'm glad that this chapter is over and I can (actually I'm about to) write the next one. I will start studying economics and management in october, but before that there are still 5 (!) months of my gap-year left. Now I want to add some life and unique experiences to those months. I thought about starting with a short trip to Portugal and then doing a RTW-Trip. Let's see where this will take me.

For the moment: stay connected and don't hestitate to post your comments.

cheers,
scipio