Nowadays with Facebooks, Flickrs and Picasas it's really easy to predispose your entire social network with your vacation photos. Naturally, people wish to force feed their experiences with others, whether they asked for it or not. Don't get me wrong, vacation photos can be enjoyable to watch. However, in most cases, they are not. This is simply because people seem to have a need to take a photo of themselves at each tourist attraction. You know, a photo of themselves posing in the foreground, putting up a fake smile, while leaving the actual subject in the background.
After a while of studying this idiotic human behavior, I've reached a conclusion:
• people need to prove something
• people want to brag
• people love themselves
I would say the actual reason is a combination of all of these. People love watching themselves and to show "how good they are doing" and sure as hell want everyone to know about it.
The thing that breaks my pot is that these typical tourist photos don't serve any real cause. They are rarely good as portraits and never good as pictures of the subject.
Furthermore, I've noticed that people don't actually need to be witnessing something exciting, i.e. a tourist attraction or a beautiful landscape. Other reasons leading to photos filled with people with a stupid grin are:
• people are in front of anything
• someone finds a "funny" item, e.g. a hat
• people are drunk
• someone is taking a picture
Each given scenario ends up in a sequence of n+1 photos, where n is the number of people. The additional photo is a photo of the whole group. This leads me to the next subject.
No matter whom you're with, there's always some dipshit suggesting a group photo – the grandmother of sons of bitches of all times. It's the typical tourist photo times the number of persons in it. And naturally, you simply have to take those in front of every single rock and polar bear you come across.
The most ridiculous thing I've heard so far went something like this: "OK, the weather is really bad. Let's run fast to the waterfall, take a photo and return inside the car". Naturally, by photo they meant a group photo. A group photo of them smiling in front of a waterfall in a terrible blast, just to prove they were there. No one gave a rat's ass about the waterfall itself! Sometimes I'm wondering if people are traveling just because everyone else is.
Here are some hints on how to "untouristize" your future albums:
• Start taking pictures of the surroundings instead of taking pictures of yourself in the surroundings.
• If you're taking a photo of your friends, don't inform them. Try capturing the actual moment.
• Take group photos for a reason, not just because you can.
• Fuck Kodak moments and konichiwas.
P.S. Coming up: Erasmus – not a synonym for an exchange period.
3/02/2010
Hatred building up inside me
Since I'm running out of nice things to write about, I decided to widen my repertoire of writing by launching a new series of blog entries called 'Hatred building up inside me'. The upcoming entries will be mostly about everyday life in a multinational environment, i.e. about the cultural and personal deficiencies that others have. So sit back and derive pleasure from my frustration.
Part 1: Ignorant idiots aren't able to develop
Although Iceland is a safe country with low crime rate, people still have locks in their doors and tend to use them in order to prevent unwanted people from entering. This is also factual in the house I'm living in and sharing with nine others. Surprisingly, one of my fellow inmates, let's say Ms. X, has a hard time understanding the basic principles of how the door functions and therefore doesn't feel the need of carrying any keys with her. So, every time Ms. X comes home, she tries the door, realizes it's locked and then rings the fucking doorbell. Since my room is the closest one to the front door, I usually open it for her. This scene has been going on for months now. At first I was extremely tolerant working as her personal butler, but slowly got tired being constantly interrupted and started expressing my feelings with a really nice smile and tone. One would expect to get the message and realize how much of a burden you are to others. But no, if you're an ignorant idiot, you're not able to develop.
The current situation is that I have quit my duties as a butler and passed the burden to others. Today, for instance, people from the third floor came down to open the door. And as you might think, they were expecting to see a visitor, not a permanent resident. I'm looking forward to see how the situation develops.
Part 1: Ignorant idiots aren't able to develop
Although Iceland is a safe country with low crime rate, people still have locks in their doors and tend to use them in order to prevent unwanted people from entering. This is also factual in the house I'm living in and sharing with nine others. Surprisingly, one of my fellow inmates, let's say Ms. X, has a hard time understanding the basic principles of how the door functions and therefore doesn't feel the need of carrying any keys with her. So, every time Ms. X comes home, she tries the door, realizes it's locked and then rings the fucking doorbell. Since my room is the closest one to the front door, I usually open it for her. This scene has been going on for months now. At first I was extremely tolerant working as her personal butler, but slowly got tired being constantly interrupted and started expressing my feelings with a really nice smile and tone. One would expect to get the message and realize how much of a burden you are to others. But no, if you're an ignorant idiot, you're not able to develop.
The current situation is that I have quit my duties as a butler and passed the burden to others. Today, for instance, people from the third floor came down to open the door. And as you might think, they were expecting to see a visitor, not a permanent resident. I'm looking forward to see how the situation develops.
2/08/2010
Second encounter with Reykjavík
I participated on an annual four-day excursion, Stóra vísindaferðin suður, arranged by the University. The excursion started on Thursday noon when we left to Reykjavik by two busses. It was obvious right from the start that the trip was just a great excuse to party. Majority of the students started drinking (btw, beers provided by the University) as soon as we hit the road. I took it a little bit easier and slept most of the way. I remember having quite weird dreams in Icelandic. All the talking and signing mixed with my subconscience was an interesting blend :)
Unlike in my previous visit to Reykjavík, the weather was absolutely fantastic. The sun was shining mostly from a clear sky and – what’s best – there was no wind!
Incredibly vivid sky over Reykjavík.
The view after a two-minute walk from our hotel
Once again, I got surprised by the beauty of Iceland. We arrived to the hotel at dark on Thursday so I had no clue that we were just by the ocean with a mountain view. On Friday morning, while having a harmonic moment in the balcony, I was astonished by the sight. Looking the magnificent morning light over the mountains was almost a perfect start for the day; If only the breakfast coffee had been good enough... (note: picture above taken in the evening).
The faculty of Business and Science's agenda included a bunch of company visits on Friday. At first, we went to Innovít entrepreneurship center where I got a free pen. Yeah, that's about it. The next visit that I participated was to a telephone company called Nova. They offered free drinks and sandwiches. Gotta love that! Also, the presenting lady was a smoking hot mature :)
We had a lot of time to wander around downtown on Friday and Saturday and this time, because of the calm weather, it was actually enjoyable. I bought some souvenirs and ate well, for instance, in Brazilian and Pakistani restaurants. There was also some party stuff going on at nights, but there is not much worth mentioning. I thought I lost my camera on Friday and soon after mentioning that half of the karaoke bar was helping me to find it. Well, we didn't, but thankfully it appeared in my pocket the day after. Perhaps the camera heard my interpretation of Bon Jovi's Always and agreed with the lyrics: "And I'll be there forever and a day – AAAAAAALWAYS".
Sunset in Blönduós
1/26/2010
All hail Þor!
Next Saturday, I will be attending a seasonal feast called Þorrablót (Thorra feast) that will be held by the UNAK student union. All exchange students were invited to this event to get an insight into a true Icelandic cuisine.
Þorrablót was originally a pagan midwinter festival where participants held speeches and recited poems in honor of Þor, the Norse god of thunder. First Þorrablóts were arranged in the late 19th century, usually by student associations. Since then, the feast has transformed into a secular family gathering over a dinner consisting old-fashioned Icelandic food called Þorramatur (food of the Þorri). Icelanders celebrate Þorrablót only during the month of Þorri that takes place between late January and late February according to The Old Icelandic calendar.
Þorramatur is a meat-driven art of culinary. It’s a fine selection of animal parts that most people find inedible. Back in the days Icelanders weren’t enjoying the joys of over production of food, so they were creative (and wise) enough to cook the entire animal as nutrition.
Þorramatur consists, for example:
These, and many other products, are served with rúgbrauð (Icelandic rye-bread), butter and Brennivín (flavored spirit).
I’m hoping to get my hands on hákarl and svið. I’ve already tasted harðfiskur and sviðasulta which is the meat from svið compressed in gelatine. Also, a ram testicle slipped into my mouth on the other day. It wasn’t bad at all.
I will try to make use of my gayish pink camera and post pictures and experiences later on.
Þorrablót was originally a pagan midwinter festival where participants held speeches and recited poems in honor of Þor, the Norse god of thunder. First Þorrablóts were arranged in the late 19th century, usually by student associations. Since then, the feast has transformed into a secular family gathering over a dinner consisting old-fashioned Icelandic food called Þorramatur (food of the Þorri). Icelanders celebrate Þorrablót only during the month of Þorri that takes place between late January and late February according to The Old Icelandic calendar.
Þorramatur is a meat-driven art of culinary. It’s a fine selection of animal parts that most people find inedible. Back in the days Icelanders weren’t enjoying the joys of over production of food, so they were creative (and wise) enough to cook the entire animal as nutrition.
Þorramatur consists, for example:
- Svið (lamb head)
- Súrsaðir hrútspungar (rams’ testicles)
- Hákarl (fermented shark)
- Lifrarpylsa (sausage from sheep’s liver)
- Blóðmör (blood pudding from sheep’s blood)
- Harðfiskur (wind-dried fish)
These, and many other products, are served with rúgbrauð (Icelandic rye-bread), butter and Brennivín (flavored spirit).
I’m hoping to get my hands on hákarl and svið. I’ve already tasted harðfiskur and sviðasulta which is the meat from svið compressed in gelatine. Also, a ram testicle slipped into my mouth on the other day. It wasn’t bad at all.
I will try to make use of my gayish pink camera and post pictures and experiences later on.
1/11/2010
Breaking out from idle loop
Christmas vacation is finally over. After four weeks of doing nothing I’m actually delighted to start having some brain activity. My pencils are sharpened and school clothes are folded. I’m ready for school.
My courses for the spring semester are as follows:
Hopefully we don’t have to write many papers in Icelandic Society, History and Culture course (like we had to in Icelandic Nature). Writing factual content with proper references and citations is very time-consuming for me. Exaggeration and writing bullshit using informal and versatile expressions is more like my style ;)
On top of the classes at the University, I will continue studying Icelandic in night school at Rósenborg. I will attend a course that is meant for people working in Iceland so I assume it’s efficient and taught by a skilled teacher.
My courses for the spring semester are as follows:
- Data Visualization
- Networks and Communications
- Principles of Compiler Construction
- Icelandic Society, History and Culture
Hopefully we don’t have to write many papers in Icelandic Society, History and Culture course (like we had to in Icelandic Nature). Writing factual content with proper references and citations is very time-consuming for me. Exaggeration and writing bullshit using informal and versatile expressions is more like my style ;)
On top of the classes at the University, I will continue studying Icelandic in night school at Rósenborg. I will attend a course that is meant for people working in Iceland so I assume it’s efficient and taught by a skilled teacher.
1/04/2010
Eruption in my pants
Outstanding news from Iceland. Geophysicist Freysteinn Sigmundsson from University of Iceland predicts that Hekla volcano could erupt at any minute:
I sure hope the eruption will take place. Without any hesitation, seeing a volcano eruption, or just to sense the atmosphere near Hekla, would be the most tremendous experience for me so far.
However, it's not a done deal. Freysteinn continues:
Read the original news article
P.S. Also, if you're excited (or just bored) you can watch live video from Hekla.
"...the pressure in the lava chamber below the volcano is similar now to immediately before the last Hekla eruption."
I sure hope the eruption will take place. Without any hesitation, seeing a volcano eruption, or just to sense the atmosphere near Hekla, would be the most tremendous experience for me so far.
However, it's not a done deal. Freysteinn continues:
"...it remains almost impossible to accurately predict volcanic eruptions".
Read the original news article
P.S. Also, if you're excited (or just bored) you can watch live video from Hekla.
1/02/2010
Highlights, memories and observations from 2009
Couple of thoughts about previous 4,5 months:
Road trips
We made three trips exploring northeast Iceland and Reykjavík area. I have great memories of deserts, where-did-they-come-from-mountains, crossing rivers, bumpy gravel roads, watching Sarah sleep in the backseat, Slovakian creature song, swimming in a volcano crater, opening a wine bottle in Reykjavik...
Great people
Majority of the people I've acquainted with are nice and fun to be with. I've laughed a lot with (and to) other foreigners and some of them have become dear friends of mine. I still don't know many Icelanders – that's a thing I want to change.
Eyes of an Icelandic
There is a group of women with extraordinary powerful and beautiful eyes. Seeing these representatives of Eyesland is really hard for my knees – especially if they have freckles as well.
Activities
During the fall I have been playing ice hockey, football, (table)drums, board/card games, swam, attended to concerts and theater, saw farm animals... I have been fortunate to have people around me who are excited about this kind of activities.
Akureyri
I like living in a proper-sized city such as Akureyri. There are enough services and everything is within a walking distance. I like hills, curvy streets, mild weather and being recognized in the streets sometimes.
Rugged nature
I've always been fond of rugged landscapes. I like to see nothing while enjoying the silence.
Costume parties
Unlike in Finland, here people actually dress up to costume parties. I love it because deep inside me is a little girl who wants to put make up on (and wear higheels).
Opeth
I'm not sure whether it's the fresh air that makes sound waves somehow different or what, but my favorite band hasn't been this good before. I <3 Åkerfeldt
Unsuccessful haircuts
I paid a visit to a hairdresser twice. Both times were disappointing. Apparently 'long' isn’t a universal concept.
I have started talking
Sometimes I might even say how I feel. It's easier in English.
People give shit
It's great to know that there are still people who give a shit about shit. For my surprise, I have found that people treasure quite conservative values. I'm like über-liberal compared to others.
My jokes are understood
Believe it or not, but I'm funny around here among people who understand sarcasm. Others usually get insulted :) It's not so hard, people! Just don't think the opposite of everything I say.
Sleep
I can sleep eternities without waking. It's new to me.
We made three trips exploring northeast Iceland and Reykjavík area. I have great memories of deserts, where-did-they-come-from-mountains, crossing rivers, bumpy gravel roads, watching Sarah sleep in the backseat, Slovakian creature song, swimming in a volcano crater, opening a wine bottle in Reykjavik...
Majority of the people I've acquainted with are nice and fun to be with. I've laughed a lot with (and to) other foreigners and some of them have become dear friends of mine. I still don't know many Icelanders – that's a thing I want to change.
There is a group of women with extraordinary powerful and beautiful eyes. Seeing these representatives of Eyesland is really hard for my knees – especially if they have freckles as well.
During the fall I have been playing ice hockey, football, (table)drums, board/card games, swam, attended to concerts and theater, saw farm animals... I have been fortunate to have people around me who are excited about this kind of activities.
I like living in a proper-sized city such as Akureyri. There are enough services and everything is within a walking distance. I like hills, curvy streets, mild weather and being recognized in the streets sometimes.
I've always been fond of rugged landscapes. I like to see nothing while enjoying the silence.
Unlike in Finland, here people actually dress up to costume parties. I love it because deep inside me is a little girl who wants to put make up on (and wear higheels).
Opeth
I'm not sure whether it's the fresh air that makes sound waves somehow different or what, but my favorite band hasn't been this good before. I <3 Åkerfeldt
Unsuccessful haircuts
I paid a visit to a hairdresser twice. Both times were disappointing. Apparently 'long' isn’t a universal concept.
I have started talking
Sometimes I might even say how I feel. It's easier in English.
People give shit
It's great to know that there are still people who give a shit about shit. For my surprise, I have found that people treasure quite conservative values. I'm like über-liberal compared to others.
My jokes are understood
Believe it or not, but I'm funny around here among people who understand sarcasm. Others usually get insulted :) It's not so hard, people! Just don't think the opposite of everything I say.
Sleep
I can sleep eternities without waking. It's new to me.
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