Writing from my new home

Valerie, a good friend from ships asked me recently why I didn't think of starting a blog about my new life and adventures in Serbia when I have all these photographs and interesting stories about adjusting to a foreign culture. We are both Filipinos, both Photographers, and both involved with Serbs (AHA, kaya pala!) So I gave it a thought, overnight, and realized that maybe by doing this, I can help myself combat all these changes in my life. This should also be a way for us to introduce our humble town, Uzice, to the world.

The town of Uzice

It's been a month since I got here, 32 days to be exact. 1 month away from ships. 7 months away from home.

After Singapore where I had lived for about 6 months, and after living on board 4 huge vessels for  23 months, I am fortunate to have found another home...

3 years since my last active blog-- on Multiply. Almost 40 countries I have seen in between, but really, I believe I am the same girl.

EXCEPT THAT, as IVAN WOULD ALWAYS SAY... IN UZICE, YOU ARE NO LONGER A CITY GIRL!

So, where is Uzice? In SERBIA?
>> YES, not SYRIA nor SIBERIA, but SERBIA!!

Summer around Town

A little backgrounder: Serbia is located at the crossroads of Central & Southeast Europe. When he was in Manila, his way of introducing his country to my family and friends was that it is between Hungary & Italy... And then everybody gets it! Haha!!

And Uzice is located in Western Serbia with a total population of only 103,000. Just around 1/5 of the population of Las Pinas City (my hometown in the Philippines), which is close to 500,000. Think BAGUIO. That's what Uzice is for me, with less traffic, much better views. Less people. And with smaller establishments.  Ivan says and I agree with him that Uzice is a cross between countries in Europe & Turkey. It may not be Bohemian, and all posh, but it is very laid-back. Definitely NOT a warzone okay?! (as other people still think it is), but truly an escape to nature. I'm so lucky!!!

Joining a Biking Tour, a favorite activity of Serbians of all ages-- that's me in RED, all the way to the RIGHT!

They say that many expats come to a new country and never get settled-- sad really! I love traveling, it was my BIGGEST dream. It was also my secret dream to live in Europe. And I consider myself very lucky in these aspects. But in as much as I want to be moving around,  I don't want to live like a tourist. Cause if you choose to live like a tourist, they say that you will always be a tourist. For me, "this" is NOT temporary! Well, it's too early to say.. but let's see. I AM in an ongoing journey.. While I am here, consider this a travel guide..  while both Ivan & I find a place to start.

Welcome to my new home! Or, in Srbski, Dobrodosli na moj novi dom!