Farewell Spit with Two Germans and a Dutch

Farewell Spit is considered the "longest natural sandbar in the world." It is also the windiest sandbar in the world, but I guess that's what makes the beautiful, fascinating sand dunes. The pictures below don't even do it justice. I will get back to the dunes, but before doing so, I want discuss relationships.

Hostel living has its positives and negatives. One positive is making connections with people and sharing experiences with them. I enjoy traveling alone, especially tramping alone at my own pace, but I'm quickly learning that new experiences are more meaningful and joyful when shared with others. I simply can't make myself laugh the way I did today and other days when traveling with others. I've shared a bottle of wine with just about everyone, I've split baked goods with Anne from the Netherlands, played cards with Victor from Germany, split fish and chips with Landon from Canada, and went on day hikes in Nelson with Pieter from the Netherlands. Today was extra special because I got to share a ride and tramp with three companionable, open, and fun people. We had a blast exploring the Golden Bay of New Zealand. Who knew two Germans, a Dutch, and an American could have so much fun? Not only did we spend the day together, we also shared two nights in a 6-bunk hostel room along with two girls from Japan! I recently read an article from the U of M Center of Spirituality and Healing website stating 148 studies show that social isolation is as detrimental for your health as smoking 15 cigarettes per day, as dangerous as being an alcoholic, and twice as dangerous as obesity! Wow, that is quite fascinating! It goes on to say that, "We are social beings – we have an innate need to be involved with others and create complex interactions. Friendships, family bonds, and participation in social activities not only increase our sense of security and self-esteem, but also provide a psychological buffer against stress, depression and anxiety." I can't agree more. My trip only solidifies the truth behind these studies. Farewell Spit wouldn't have been the same experience walking on the dunes alone. If it wasn't for Markus from Germany taking multiple photos of me, I wouldn't have proof that I was truly there. I wouldn't have done crazy yoga poses on the sand which led to an amazing yoga lesson with Anne later that night! All of the pictures below are from hiking along the most northern part of New Zealand, including Farewell Spit.