"Global Tourist" Greatwalk0's Profile

Traveling is one of the most significant elements of my life. Simply put - like most everyone else at this site - I love it.

Though I am currently posted in Washington, I support international operations for a medium-sized international development organization, which requires me to travel to Africa (mostly eastern and southern, though sometimes western) approximately 25% of the time. This has been a nice change of pace -- a return to the African continent -- after working for a consulting firm, where most of my travel was focused in Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

I am very much one of those people who, when asked, "What are you hobbies? What are you good at?" am sometimes at a loss for a response. Is traveling my hobby, since I do it so much for work? Can someone be GOOD at traveling? Ultimately, I have discovered that the answer to both of these questions is a resounding, "yes." Traveling is my primary hobby and ... please allow me to be arrogant for a moment :) ... I think I'm pretty good at it as well.

Please enjoy my pages. Your feedback is always welcomed!

Standing Gaurd in Bishkek

My previous job often took me to various Central Asian republics. While not always enjoyable, one does have the sense that they are on the completely opposite side of the planet when visiting this region. It's very easy to imagine what life was like behind the "Iron Curtain" when visiting Bishkek, Dushanbe, and even Almaty.

One of the stranger (and more remote) places I have visited while on assignment was Bishkek, Krygyzstan - where horse meat is a delicacy, most people -- young and old -- yern for the days of the Soviet Union, and you as a foreigner are never too far from the local and state police. Ahhhh ... Central Asia.

On a dodgy cable car in Tirana

I recently completed a 1 1/2 year assignment in Kosovo and many of my past work-related travels have been to the Balkans - Albania, Kosovo, Romania, and Bosnia. Visiting the Balkans is always a treat because the food is excellent and the people are extremely warm. Additionally, locations in Montenegro and Croatia (and, now, even parts of Macedonia and Albania) are unbelievably beautiful, though still largely undiscovered, tourist destinations!

Here is a photo of me on a cable car in Tirana coming down from Mount Dajti.

When they tell you that the people of the Balkans are friendly, they are not pulling your leg. The Balkans is an amazingly friendly place for tourists - especially Americans. Step off the beaten path, see a different side of Europe, and visit the Balkans!

In a market in Lusaka, Zambia

I am currently suppporting international operations in numerous African country offices. After about a five year break from the continent, returning to work here (though technically based in Washington) has been a total treat.

Though not always easy for the travelor, sub-Saharan Africa is home to some of the world's most precious experiences. Whether it's long nights out in Nairobi, relaxing on the beaches of Zanzibar, being generally posh in Jozi, or traveling up-country in Cote d'Ivoire, the countries of Africa will always maintain a special place in my heart and thoughts.

Pictured here is an artist at the local Lusaka crafts market. Unfortunately, the sculpture couldn't fit in my suitcase.

St. Basils Cathedral - Red Square, Moscow

Working in Eastern Europe, particularly Russia, is a total hassle. The former-Soviet beauracracy is difficult to navigate and can be extremely frustrating. That being said, Eastern Europe's impact on 20th Century history makes it a very important place to visit and to understand.

So ... put your flexibility hat on, put on a perma-smile, and take a trip to Eastern Europe. You will certainly not be disappointed.

A Kurdish Woman Starring Off into the Distance

While my Middle Eastern travels are currently limited to Turkey, I have found this region to be, perhaps, the most exotic and exciting region that I have visited. From carpet dealers to water pipes to ancient Ottoman architecture, this is a part of the world that I need to explore more. Every side street of Istanbul held a new adventure! Definately need to go back.

Democracy!

I'm based in Washington and love this city! It's young, exciting, and you will never have a dull moment here. Divided into four very different quadrants, one minute you can be staring at the beautiful capital and the next, find yourself up in Adams Morgan having a beer at a dive bar. Washington DC may not be the capital of the world, but it is a very nice place to call "home."

Mother Georgia, in Tbilisi

Georgia, Armenia, Azerbiajian - a region that is wrought with conflict and controversy, but equally as facinating and warm. Whether it is soaking in an ancient bath house in Tbilisi, dealing with beaurocrats in Baku, or wondering the streets of Yerevan, this region is truly special. Visit, eat some of the fine local flat breads, and enjoy.

Needless to say, I have never had a dull moment in this region.