#w: lae writes

[bitchesgate3]

I will always be in favor of playersexuality. Until the day game designers have more nuanced understandings of sexuality.

Game designers still only understand flamboyant gay, mean lesbian, slutty bisexual, and quirky queer. Any identities not those are not even recognized. And any complex characterizations are only afforded to "normal" straight characters.

While Larian gave us a step in the right direction, they are still coming from the above framework and trying to reiterate upon that. And you have to understand that framework in order to recognize why their implementation is still somewhat shallow while still being the best offered compared to other games in the genre.

In the past, every time I encountered a woman in a romanceable video game who correctly represents my own experience of bisexual/pansexual identity, she was only romanceable by male characters.

These are women who have tough exteriors on a spectrum of "bitchy femme", a midpoint of "aloof androgynous", to "tough masc". All points that are gnc in some way, but all are women who also have a soft interior that is interpreted as conventionally feminine.

Game designers interpret these two traits (outward gnc and inner softness) as a nullification to heterosexual woman. Time and time again. Falling into the stereotype of being a woman for a man to tame.

Will they ever understand? Or do people as a whole just don't understand the many ways bisexuality can take shape?

[mswyrr]

am i going to have to explain that within a patriarchy having sex w/ another man while married & having that man's kids and passing them off as your husband's is considered a greater sin than a widow having sex????? i don't agree with the mindset. but it's a thing.

if you think alicent is a hypocrite i can see it! but she's also deep in a patriarchal pov where she is a SINNER who is sinning but not quite on the level she believed R sinned against Lae/nor and the realm.

again - the logic of the characters is separate from what i personally think. but her keeping it to stuff without touching involved (the feet shows for larys) while married and only banging directly once vis/erys was dead is her keeping it a "sin" but below a certain level in her mind

every season this happens - if you know the historical mindsets g/rrm drew on and you mention it people are like "so you AGREE with medieval patriarchy and think A is the good guy!!!" i never fucking said that jesus christ.

or you mention that R is based on many noblewomen who defended their rights as nobles but didn't have a broader vision of social equality for all women and therefore were not feminists but rather proto-feminists people think you're dragging her.... no i think that's good writing

[n1ghtwarden]

also i will say minth's dialogue/writing is pretty inconsistent. she says all servants of gods are victims and wind up dead yet supports shadow and lae becoming 'chosen' of their gods and also supports durge becoming full slayer even after saying she'd kill them if they lose control. which ok sure she's a power hungry hypocrite. but. these are also ppl she cares abt and is loyal to.

w lae especially she comments on their similarities and vlaak/lolth parallels - so i don't think , in lae's case at least, minth would be for 'submitting' to vlaak. shadow and shar? i don't think she cares enough and for all she knows aylin is some rando in a cage. she DEFINITELY appreciates the power aylin the sword of selune can wield; but in the moment? she'd be siding with shadow.

[spikeinthepunch]

i dont mean to reminisce on DAI/DA in general so much rn as some kinda jab to bg3, just nostalgic and there arent many high fantasy rpg (or any rpgs) that have details branching relationships. i am super biased for Dorian but thats because his romance was SO good imo. and again, it was unique for not falling into the often bland 'everyone is bi just because'.

but rn after getting to the first major stage of Astarion's relationship i think i can also agree w those who are saying the romances seem less romance and more sex. and i love sex, i want to fuck these guys a lot, really. but its the fact *everyone* is like that. they ask on the end of act 1 if you want to fuck anyone, and everyone has the option to. and thats cool sometimes but lets be serious, its not realistic and it kinda takes weight off of some characters if they all wanna fuck with barely knowing you. you get next to no options to converse with them in detail through the first act. especially in Astarion's case, i didnt get anymore options until he bit me, and even that was not long before closing act 1. it is def harder to get higher approval with some characters just in act one. but even prior i somehow got Lae zel high enough she was eager to fuck just because i killed some people. and she was hardly in my party at all.

like okay, i have more acts, so im sure i will learn more about Astarion but its still the fact that the first relationship anything i could do was just led by asking for sex? regardless of my stance on sex (and i love it), i want variety. and variety can't just be their backstories, it has to be their stand on relationships, intimacy, sex, etc. if you game if going to take pride in its romances. remember DAI? remember all the stuff you could ask back at your base? questions about them that honestly had a decent amount of branches or at the very least there were a good number of topics? their impressions affecting options and story choices coming up quite often. you still had to get to know them but i felt like their approval was well paced and obvious.

not getting anything else to ask Astarion through almost all of act 1 except "what can you tell me about yourself" to which he says nothing was kinda lame. i can ask Shadowheart what she thinks of the current situation, etc... you can ask Gale a good amount about his condition. and my approval was neutral too. But even for them, there was very little you could get out of those choices anyways. and additionally with DAI not jumping right to sex, i liked how you could like... you could have small intimate interactions with them outside of the big scenes. and the pacing felt good, the story quests for them also coming in 'acts' with the overall story.

idk man, i just hope the romance storylines in bg3 pick up. i did see complaints coming from ppl before i started but i kinda wished they were exaggerated, but i care about writing and pacing so its kinda hitting me that its not wrong.

[hadeschan]

item # K19F28

RARE, only 72 pieces made, Pra Kring Som-poht Hiranyabat Lae A-yu Jet Sip Song Pee, Luang Phu Manit Wat Samphanthawong, Nua Thong Pasom. A cast figurine of a Medicine Buddha holding a pot of an elixir of Immortality with an inscription of “Na Cha Lee Ti”, the Khata Huajai Pra Sivali or Huajai Setthee (Wealth Fetching Cabalistic Writings) in the back, at the base. Made from copper-base alloy with high content of gold, made as gift to commemorate the promotion to the Rank of Phra Udon Yanna Molee Tavaro of Ecclesiastical peerage of the Thai Sangha, and the 6th Cycle Birthday Anniversary (72 years old) of Luang Phu Manit of Wat Samphanthawong (Wat Ko), Bangkok on Dec 29, BE 2532 (CE 1989). Luang Phu Manit was promoted to Somdej Phra Maha Veerawongsa before passing away on May 8, BE 2561.

……………………………………………………..

In Mahayana Buddhism, it is believed that Pra Kring would help bring 12 kinds of success to the owner. And Thais (Theravada Buddhism) believe that Pra Kring helps bring good health, longevity, cure for all diseases with wealth & prosperity.

……………………………………………………..

BEST FOR: Pra Kring could help reverse your chronic disease and cure the underlying cause of your symptoms, Pra Kring adverts all distresses, and destroys all deceases. Pra Kring brings happiness, prosperity and longevity. Klawklad Plodpai (it helps push you away from all danger). Kongkraphan (it makes you invulnerable to all weapon attack), and Maha-ut (it stops gun from shooting at you). Metta Maha Niyom (it helps gain loving, mercy, caring, kindness, and compassion from all people around you). Maha Larp (it brings Lucky Wealth / wealth fetching), and Kaa Kaai Dee (it helps tempt your customers to buy whatever you are selling, and it helps attract new customers and then keep them coming back. Ponggan Poot-pee pee-saat Kunsai Mondam Sa-niat jan-rai Sat Meepit (it helps ward off evil spirit, demon, bad ghost, bad omen, bad spell, curse, accursedness, black magic, misfortune, doom, and poisonous animals). And this amulet helps protect you from manipulators, backstabbers, and toxic people.

……………………………………………………..

THE HISTORY OF PRA KRING

Pra Kring is a small figurine of Buddha in Mara Vichai Gesture (Subduing Mara, also known as Calling the Earth to witness) with lotus petals at the base in the front, the right hand of Buddha is on his knee, and his left hand is holding a pot of elixir of immortality or a peach (peach is regarded the fruit of immortality). The style of Pra Kring is similar to Pra Paisatchayaguru (Buddha of Medicine Bhaiṣajyaguru), and it is believed that Pra Kring is Bhaiṣajyaguru of Mahayana Buddhism. Bhaiṣajyaguru is also known as Healing Buddha, Master of Healing, Supreme Physician, and King of Medicines. The figurine of Pra Kring will be put in the water for making holy water for healing sickness, warding off evil spirits, easing the suffering, Klawklad Plodpai (bringing safety, and pushes you away from all danger), and Metta Maha Niyom (easily gaining loving, mercy, caring, kindness, and compassion from all people around you), and Maha Larp (bringing Lucky Wealth / wealth fetching). In the reign of King Rama V of Bangkok (King Chulalongkorn) between CE 1868 to CE 1910, the Pra Kring Pawaret was used for making Holy Water on his Birthday Anniversary Ceremonies.

The oldest Pra Kring figurines were made in Tibet and China, they are called “Pra Kring Tibet” and “Pra Kring Nong Sare” in Thai. And the second to the oldest Pra Kring figurines were discovered Cambodia dated as of Angkor period, they were called “Pra Kring Ubageng”, “Pra Kring Panombageng”, and “Pra Kring Pra Patoom Suriyawong”. The Cambodian style Pra Kring Patoom Suriyawong was popular in the reign of King Jayavarman VII (reigned CE 1181 to CE 1218), this type of Pra Kring was made to replace the figurine of Buddha of Medicine Bhaiṣajyaguru which was firstly made in Cambodia since King Jayavarman I (reigned CE 657 to CE 681). The making of Pra Kring figurines in Thailand was influenced by Cambodia, and it believed that Pra Kring figurines in Thailand was firstly made as early as in the Kingdom of Sukhothai (CE 1238 – CE 1438).

In Thailand, the Pra Kring figurine is traditionally stuffed with a small metal ball inside to make noise after it is shaken. The ringing the Pra Kring is to perform while praying a sermon. The material used for casting Pra Kring figurines in Thailand is called “Nawaloha”, an alloy, a combination of 9 kinds of metals which are iron, mercury, gold, silver, copper, pluang (antimony ore), zinc, chin (silver lead alloy), and borisuth (pure copper ore). There are different sizes of Pra Kring figurines, and the portable tiny Pra Kring figurine is called “Pra Chaiyawat”.

As for Thais, Pra Kring is a Buddha figurine that makes noise after being shaken. And in Mahayana Buddhism, it is believed that Pra Kring would help bring 12 kinds of success to the owner. And Thais (Theravada Buddhism) believe that Pra Kring helps bring good health, longevity, cure for all diseases with wealth & prosperity.

……………………………………………………..

DIMENSION: 3.60 cm high / 1.90 cm wide / 1.20 cm thick

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item # K19F28

Price: price upon request, pls PM and/or email us hadesamulet@protonmail.com

100% GENUINE WITH 365 DAYS FULL REFUND WARRANTY

Item location: Hong Kong, SAR

Ships to: Worldwide

Delivery: Estimated 7 days handling time after receipt of cleared payment. Please allow additional time if international delivery is subject to customs processing.

Shipping: FREE Thailandpost International registered mail. International items may be subject to customs processing and additional charges.

Payments: PayPal / Western Union / MoneyGram /maybank2u.com / DBS iBanking / Wechat Pay / Alipay / INSTAREM / PromptPay International / Remitly

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[reignyra]

general ideas…

nyra & alicent we’re in fact more openly (to each other) in a relationship, or something akin to one, since being quite young. this was one of the reasons Ali’s marriage to her father was so heartbreaking in particular despite nyra making peace with him remarrying.

ali and nyra similarly were not on good terms for a long while, only partly quelled similarly as we see on the show when, coming home early from her little marriage tour, nyra and ali reconcile (somewhat)

the rumors spread about nyra are relatively similar, and this is a bit i’d want to really discuss with dae/mon rpers to see if we can figure out a good alternative, but i think at best it was smth where he did take her to the pleasure house but just in a “weird decision to make but understandably just not very responsible and dumb” and the rumors were more about what she did or didn’t do while there, not w/ dae/mon but w others at the house - she was still left alone by dae/mon, for reasons that would have to be again chatted abt w writing partners methinks. i think she is exposed to the reality of women outside of the royal/noble circle being like… outwardly intimate with each other during this experience which drags up a lot of absolutely confusing and frustrating emotions regarding herself and alicent

the rendezvous w criston still happens generally, i think - but again more as a result of her frustration w what she’s seen in the city, her dynamic w Ali, etc etc etc. it would naturally follow that a lot of Ali’s actions afterwards are because of a hurt that nyra would lie to her about what happened, essentially all really the same with the added layer of these girls are in luv im sorry to say …

rejecting criston is a minor coming out moment, briefly, reigned back when she realizes he’s actually upset with her over it, which she didn’t completely anticipate. she also had come out (ish) to lae/nor , though very much vaguely so

everything else happens similarly but im sorry to cris/ton for ruining what shred of dignity and reputation he has left but it’s homophobia girl it’s bad ..

[ruvi-muffin]

Man why did sm calamity pcs have so many syllables and weird spelling in their made up fantasy names????

I can't remember them

Like

Zerxus - two syllables starting w the two wrirdest sounds, making it slightly easier to remember but still

Cerit - might be misspelled (it's cerrit) but it sounds like carrot. Good job travis

Patia - short, sweet, we love to see it (it has the sch sound that actually Souns like a t thank god)

Quay.. lequatius ??? - le la lu ?? Qua que quey ??? Sious tious tius sus ????? (Loquatius ??? Apparently?? T SOUNDS LIKE SH !! TEN YRS DUNGEON FOR REIGEL)

.....

...

*checks smudged writing on hand*

LAERRYN !! - love her but omg why spelling ???? Lay ryn? Lae run? Lay line 😂😂

And uh..

Nydas!! - Actually that one is on me that should be way easier to remember.

I would like to personally apologize to lou and aldo all of exuc for this cardinal sin of forgetting all the names gjykg

[notcatherinemorland]

More Hamlet Thoughts because i leave everything to the 11th hour . production continues to be the 2018 globe w/ Michelle Terry

Hamlet and Ophelia’s uhhhhh fight 

Ham’s personality twists into cruel mockery of her at the line ‘Where’s your father’ and OHO the facial expressions

Ophelia kept trying to hold onto Hamlet’s hand and body and curl her fingers around hamlet’s hand and it was very heartbreaking . Hamlet was a ball of chaotic energy who scrabbled her hands off himself. rlly interesting to watch

this turned around with hamlet scrubbing over her face as he presents her to the audience’s 4th wall for the make up lines. and shoves her down to the floor at the end

the physical manipulation hamlet takes out on ophelia is a super interesting segue to the players scene

2 b / x 2 b

ham sat in the middle of the front of the stage and held the hand of an audience member who he talked he speech to. very intimate and closed and really interesting interpretation

im a nerd so i really like the juxtaposition of such a grand and philosophical speech being told on such an intimate and small scale

Hamlet’s still got his smudged clown makeup on

hamlet and horatio come across Very gay in the ‘something too much of this’ line. i vibe 

hamlet decimated his friendship with R&G and i LOVED how Horatio held him and then forced him away to give him just a touch more character. this Ht loved R&G as well and i appreciate the bit of character we all try to give horatio

Horatio’s Emotions over R&G’s impending death is a++ give this man some emotional range

OH the ‘if your mind dislike anything, obey it’ can we PLEASE listen to horatio the lone voice of reason within elsinor’s halls

that’s not me being gay, that’s a legit analysis of Hamlet in that everyone in Elsinor has a twisted sense of reality and morality and Horatio as an outsider is immune and must watch in horror

the argument is flawed with R&G but hey it’s not my theory.

THE TRUMPETS . there’s live trumpets 

the music they played to signal the half time of the play was wonderfully dissonant and i VIBE WITH THAT that is the ENERGY of Elsinor right there

honestly im annoying and i don’t particularly care for the play scene as an audience member. like academically the play within a play is rife with analysis but like. to just sit and watch it feels like such a halt in the energy

plus i really dislike it when they use gross physical comedy in the dumb-show because again. im annoying

anyway they only do the dumb-show (more tollerable than a lot) and they use drum beats and purcussion in place of lines, and have hamlet explain what’s going on with his lines. it’s certainly different and its a lot quicker than the text is

This Claudius is Prime Smarmy Politicians and is very indignant as he tries to pray and i REALLY LIKE HIM

The scene transitions are .. non existent in this play and i LIKE IT 

the lines follow on immediately between scenes as the other characters are leaving the stage 

i love how it supports the theme of acting this play has and how it breaks down the barrier for the audience of personal vs private 

thats not quite what i want to say uhhhhh. in other productions some of the scenes are really discreet from each other- like how pearl necklaces have stoppers between the pearls- and that’s especially evident in films, but here it’s the opposite and the scenes bleed into each other to create a really fast paced and chaotic energy and i REALLY LIKE IT

‘personal vs private’ is on god my favourite theme in hamlet and the way it works with the audience creating it here is GREAT

Closet scene... OH BOY

this hamlet is CRUEL oml 

the ghost enters after hamlet spends 3 minutes berating his mother and she’s crying on the floor by the audience and hamlet immediately stops and starts weeping 

‘oh save me’ sounds so small and childlike and it really showcases the love between them

not that kind of love, sigmund fucking freud. get your mind out the gutter

the disdain hamlet has for gertrude absolutely breaks my heart but that’s a me thing because i haven’t been able to see my mother in person for coming up on a month due to quarantine :(

added an extra hug before ham leaves .. v sweet

Claudius comes barreling in and picks up ham’s dropped sword. :eye emoji: doesn’t put it down until Hamlet’s brought in for questioning. but he’s still holding a book (english dictionary presumably?) and this act of holding a sword for 2 scenes WILL be reiterated time and time again in ever hamlet essay i write forever to whatever end i so desire because it’s easy to manipulate to my own purposes. bless this moment

There’s a seagull that keeps interrupting claudius at perhaps the funniest possible moments in his soliloquies and honestly WHERE is it’s Olivier

Ophelia’s madness isn’t as explicit as it is in other versions, but watching her tumble into emotions and lack of restraint is so, so heartbreaking.

this is one of the productions of hamlet that makes a really convincing case for ‘madness’ in elsinor being synonymous to speaking one’s mind and being truthful about one’s heightened emotions and like. i Love that interpretation

lets be real i love 99% of hamlet interpretations

the 1% is freud. fuck that guy

I’m Digging the parallel of Ophelia’s emotional outburts of grief (in madness) to Laertes incensed outburst of grief . ohoho

Laertes gets rosemary and pansies, Claudius gets fennel and columbines, Gertrude gets the rue, Audience member gets the daisy and the thought of violets

unfortunately i once wrote a shite poem about gertrude and weather she know of the poison in the cup at the end and unfortunately that’s all i can think about for the last 40 mins of the play hfdhgjgghjhgj

im annoying so i read along with the play and the duets Claudius and Laertes make of the meter and the word formatting on the page comes across really different on stage, which is super interesting. 

not to be really fucking dramatic but i read in the info packet of this play that the pillars on the stage are actually tree trunks carved and painted to look like marble and considering how many times i had to hear the words ‘appearance vs reality’ in my english class, i think im allowed to use the smirk emoji about how the setting of the globe is Integral to Hamlet as a play

i am itching to write an entire 4000 word tirade about the use of the physical body in hamlet because between the actual acting on stage, polonius, ‘one auspicious and one dropping eye’ and all whole host of references made to physical body parts i am going feral 

PLUS this one incorporates sign language 

i actually hate the word incorporates but needs must  

The Ophelia’s death speech is of course wonderful, but i can’t stop thinking about how John Everett Millais made his model (who’s name escapes me in a terrible irony because i got this information from an exhibition about the female pre-raphalites) sit in a cold bath for hours on end whilst he sketched and it made her very ill because the fire went out and she was sat nude in a bath of cold water for hours.

Gravedigger only has the songs and the hamlet interaction, and he wears a high vis jacket. he’s also played by the ghost’s actor, which whilst understandable in such a small cast, amuses me greatly

Hamlet’s got his hair tied back and in a military style jacket, and marches around with Horatio who’s in a hoodie and a black duffle coat (absolutely a student) and the same tight plait. Ham’s definitely meant to be sane now, he speaks very brusquely and all but marches around the stage

Not To Make An Edelgard Reference But edelgard’s cause in 3H was also cemented by a timeskip and a military outfit and a brusque personality hehehe 

Hamlet gets into the ‘grave’ to chat to Yorick which, again, i will use in every relevant essay i will write and manipulate this scene to whatever end i desire and on god i thank this production for this 

a level me would have gone feral

current me is also going feral

Grave Scene: a terrible one for your family to walk in and ask what the fuck you’re watching

Polonius’ actor plays the priest. yes, capsule wardrobe of a cast, i know but i’m an english student it’s my duty to wring every irrational inch of analysis out of this thing

i won’t trail on about unsubstaniated interpretations of Polonius’ parenting skills and fate in Hamlet but on god i will find an essay about it

i always enjoy it when someone leaps in the grave .. the melodrama... the meaning... the liminal spaces...

the DRAMA of seperating feral laertes and the really calm and imposing hamlet is excellent and a bit hilarious and the camera is going nuts

i’m very aware that everyone is now traipsing about over the grave in the middle of the stage and THAT’S a fun dynamic you don’t get from film or text

ok I’ve just noticed the video has the ‘top chat replay’ going and the very first line i saw is ‘what if hamlet had tiktok’ and i am CRYING 

Ophelia’s actor also plays Osric and is a) absolutely hilarious and b) again, capsule wardrobe of a cast will not stop me from analysing everything and anything this play may or may not offer me. 

im not saying hamlet is a play about inheritance and the burden of it, but also... isn’t it :eye emoji:

if bloody fire emblem fates can do it so can i, step off

Fencing scene: oh thank god it’s nearly over

The hearts on their fencing get ups parallel Hamlet’s clown outfit with a heart on the sleeve Very Nicely

Gertrude isn’t wearing her headpiece anymore .. ohoho dispelling the trappings and suits of dishonesty, if you will

The duel is a) bloody terrifying because sword fighting and b) judged by Osric (Ophelia) and the poetry of having ham & lae’s duel waged over and judged by Ophelia is absolutely excellent

Claudius’s aside (or to laertes? camera didn’t follow) had no right to be as humorous as it was jdfsghfkd

Gertrude figured out it was poison in this one. Nice

I like the call and response effect of ‘Treachery! Seek it out! / It is here Hamlet’ they made with Hamlet running around they stage to find little propped up Laertes

The dramatic eye contact of Hamlet and Claudius as he forces him to drink the poison.... OH HECK YES 

the way they sink to the floor in a pair, with hamlet crawling over his body to make sure he dies... oh LORD 

the swing hamlet does with his arm to the audience to cast them as ‘the unsatisfied’ was EXCELLENT and i would like that in every production of hamlet please 

the tussle of horatio and hamlet over the cup..... iconic.... and i enjoy the parallel of that to hamlet with claudius as they’re stood in the same corner 

The harsh projection of Hamlet’s voice and the blunt manner of his words about Fortinbras’ inheritance of denmark against the soft way Horatio rocks Hamlet back and forth ... i want to CRY

Horatio got to have emotional range in this production .. wonderful

i always enjoy the way the play tails off with politics in a room of dead bodies.. the layers the absolute onions

how none of the drama within the castle has any meaning to anyone outside of it is Excellent 

and then the way the prison and enclosure of elsinor is finally broken with military force in parallel to the tumultuous interpersonal relationships within it... i vibe yet more

they actually ended with ‘go bid the soldiers shoot’ which i enjoy a lot!!!! and the music is wonderful

then they all start doing this dance which i think is meant to be about the themes of the play and to be perfectly honest it’s a bit crunchy for me but the music absolutely slaps!!!

final thoughts:

that sure was a hamlet production and i thought it had a lot of heart and did some new things very very well!!!

and i loved the emphasis they put on the costuming!!!! 

overall: a solid hamlet. very nice. i greatly enjoyed it!!!! 

[blookmallow]

Hi Lucy, can I get a Death Note AU with your OCs? Who would be the fastest to use it, who could get away with using it longest, etc

god i am here for oc aus…… ur my favorite 

ok uh

i have a lot of ocs im just gonna go with whatever comes to mind first i can do for a Specific person if u wanted to know. i dont know how this would work with my current system w/ soul collectors bc they’re not like death note’s reapers so im just gonna ignore that for now. 

- none of the stereosonic gang would try it. kayzee would be unnecessarily freaked out by it. gavin would absolutely not believe it but wouldn’t want to try it, either - knows magic exists, therefore there’s a Chance this could be something dangerous, so it’s not worth the risk. they give it to shuri, who gives it to rachna. rachna destroys it, deciding this is a power no one should have, and presents too much of a risk

- crow immediately tries it on every name he can think of with no regard to the consequences whatsoever. it probably does not work on antis and most of the people he knows the names of are antis, so not much actually happens. he cant spell for shit, his writing is illegible, and he cant remember anyones last names, so it doesnt work anyway. he thinks its a prank or something and throws it away and/or tears it up in frustration

- laelia’s first thought is IM GONNA WRITE CROWWWW but sage stops her and is like ‘ok what if that /actually worked/ though. we dont know what this thing is do you Really want to do that’ ‘yes’ ‘lae’ ‘ok fine no’ (it wouldnt work anyway bc he’s an anti though). she’d go flirt with someone at a bar or something to get their name and then test it on them. her eyes light up with the Incredible POwer she’s just been given and sage immediately confiscates it bc lae also has no concept of consequences, is incredibly impulsive, and is also smarter than crow and can spell things correctly, 

- sage absolutely does not use it and doesnt even want to touch it. does Not want damian to get it even though crow desperately wants to bring it to him. tries to hide it away as best she can so No One can get at it 

- damian doesn’t believe it at first, but, discreetly tries a very specific but plausible death scenario for whatever human he can find the name of quickly enough to see if it works. it does. he’s completely fascinated and devotes a Lot of time to seeing how specific you can go/how exactly the rules work/etc, considers it extremely valuable. also realizes that if anyone else ever gets their hands on this, or if there are more, any anti who lets the name of their origin slip is in MASSIVE danger. he realizes how blatant he’s been about skye. he, for the first time, feels suddenly very unsafe. realizes that if this works on soul collectors it could be incredibly dangerous. does not have the guts to try it 

- clive thinks its bullshit. lex isnt so sure - knows about magic, obviously. they get into an argument about it. clive is so confident in this and so determined to prove lex wrong he takes it and writes whatever name comes to mind - probably a coworker who pissed him off or something. it works. he’s fucking horrified and immediately falls apart with fear and guilt. lex assures him he won’t tell anyone what happened, no one’s gonna be able to track this to you, you didn’t think it was real, who Would think it was real, you’re not gonna get caught for this, ill take the notebook ill get rid of it 

he does not get rid of it, but hides it, Just In Case. doesnt use it, but Could. constantly debates giving it to chris, who he Knows will absolutely not use it and would be capable of securing it somewhere safe where No One could get to it ever, but at the same time… he doesnt want to give up this secret weapon. just in case. 

(i have to leave for work now but ill probably do more of these later) 

[bitchesgate3]

mizora fans are the only safe side of the fandom for me

[wrath-of-conlang]

werewolf conlang (not named yet)

I just remembered this blog exists so i figured id share the conlang ive been working on

My concept was a conlang for werewolves that contrasted a lot of liquids. werewolves here are a distinct species/culture that i guess you could more properly call shapeshifters

Heres the phonological inventory and keep in mind my computer broke and i only have my phone to type on so i cant access every ipa character easily, so i try to disambiguate pronunciation of orthographic characters in parentheses where needed

Stops: p/b t/d k/g Stops are unvoiced word initially or when they come before a glottal stop, otherwise theyre voiced. For convenience i always write them as b d g

Fricatives: s š(sh) h x(velar fricative) These can be short or long, as can nasals and vowels. A long sound is written with :

Nasals: m n ń(ñ/ny)

Liquids: r ŕ(the american english r) l ģ(uvular trill)

Other: w y ’(glottal stop) Note that ’ is also used to denote that two vowels are not diphthongized, i might disambiguate that later but honestly the ambiguity feels naturalistic to me and i kind of like it. This culture is oral anyway

Vowels: a e i o u pronounced as their ipa values, diphthongs are also possible

The grammar is agglutinating and is inspired in part by the little bit of swahili and guarani that ive learned from duolingo

Pronouns: 1s siha 1p (exclusive) me (inclusive) me'a 2s lae 2p wey 3s gaŕ 3p xel

Some basic nouns: Moon- eyi: Food- dog'e Bird- game Sun- web Water- dwes: Bone- ģer Sky- gai Ice- bo Wind- sou: Flower- heš: Face- esu Fire- ńi:

A possessive noun combiner is -xeb-, i havent nailed down all the phonetic rules re: affixes yet but here are some examples of its use Moon’s face- eyi:xebesu Bird’s food- gamexedog'e Sun’s fire- webebńi:

Adjectives agree via vowel harmony- basically the vowel nearest the agreeing noun gets changed to the noun’s nearest vowel. The vowel can come before or after the noun which affects its form

Sample vowels Big- guš Small- i: Good- rele Bad- gwa Black- heģ White- leg

Big fire- ńi: giš OR giš ńi:

Black bird: game heģ OR haģ game

Small bone: ģer ei OR ie ģer

Good food: dog'e rele OR relo dog'e

Some affixes also use that kind of vowel harmony, for example, the plural suffix -(V)nVs

Moons- eyi:nis Foods- dog'enes Birds- gamenes Flowers- heš:enes Winds- sou:nous Faces- esunus

Verb tense and aspect are shown through satellites, inspired by trigedasleng, but person is indicated through prefixes kind of like swahili and negation is done via a suffix

Satellites can come before or after the verb and harmonize like adjectives Past- bVdV Future- hV Passive- Vg Imperative- Vr

Prefixes for person and number 1s si- 1p me- (for 1p-inclusive also add -‘a) 2s la- 2p we- 3s ga- 3p xe- Infinitive- de- The negative suffix is -yeŕ

Heres the full conjugation of to run, dehese, with positive and negative

inf dehese, deheseyeŕ 1s sihese, siheseyeŕ 1p mehese(‘a), mehese(‘a)yeŕ 2s lahese, laheseyeŕ 2p wehese, weheseyeŕ 3s gahese, gaheseyeŕ 3p xehese, xeheseyeŕ

I’ll list some more basic verbs and then do some exanple sentences with satellites

To be- de'a To see- deš:oń To eat- dem:was To fly- delel:

The bird will fly. Game ha galel: OR Game galel: he

I am a bird, we are birds. Si'a game, me'a('a) gamenes

I did not see the sky. Siš:ońyeŕ bede gai OR Bidi sišońyer gai

Eat! (singular) Er lam:was! OR Lam:was ar!

Eat (plural) Er wem:was! OR Wem:was ar!

Y'all were seen. Eg weš:oń bodo OR Bede wešoń og

Then theres some more noun affixes, which ive split for now into non-prepostion suffixes and preposition prefixes

Past- -bad Future- -ha Like/similar to- -ade Honorific- -wig Negation- -yeŕ Augmentative- -ua Diminutive- -'is

Here’s examples for how a few of these might be used Game'is - bird.dim - birdie Game'isinis - bird.dim.pl - birdies Game'ade - bird.like - birdlike thing Game'adenes - bird.like.pl - birdlike things

About- be- In/on/at- yed- For/to- heš- From- ńa- In front of- med- Behind- gwe- Above- seno- Under- eho-

I’ll give a few more basic vocab words and then do some glossed example sentences

Meat- ģan Tree- gona Person- lero Blood- heb'a Child- hab Home- nen Stone- gwes: Road- bes:e

To walk- de'eńa To carry- de'ora To talk- de'osu To sing/howl- de'ua'u To shape-change- dešem: To sleep- den:a

The child sings about his people. Hab ga'ua'u senoleronosegaŕ Child 3s.sing about.person.pl.CONN.3s

The sun is in the sky Web ga'a yedegai Sun 3s.be in.sky

The bird was eaten by a person Game ag gam:was bada yilero Bird pass-sat 3s.eat past-sat by.person

One other thing, where in english you would connect an auxiliary verb with an infinitive, this language has a special verb connector -(V)ša-

To want- desod

Y'all want to walk home Wesodoša'eńa yednen 2p.want.CONN.walk to.house

K thats what ive got so far, thoughts? Feelings? Suggestions? Idk im having fun, anyway

[belardtheworld]

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]The unfolding of the events in Oahu and Kauai have made me embrace unexpected occurrences to a T. It’s incredible how it seems like the universe has a plan for you, if you allow room in your life for it.

It started happening in Oahu, and then the universe continued conspiring to make me believe that magic is real in Kauai.

On the last day of my intended stay in Kauai, I was originally planning to explore the island on my own. Turns out I would meet a local who would take me all around the island on a fancy sports car (the kind that would attract onlookers), to hidden beaches and fancy mansions (like Mark Zuckerberg’s property).

The kind of car that makes soooo much noise 😛

We would have such a good time that we would wish I could have stayed longer on the island. Our wish would come true and my flight to LA would be delayed by 19 hours. We would spend the extra 10 hours together and wish we had more time again to see the rest of the island’s beauty. I would miss my flight AGAIN and earn another extra 17 hours in Kauai.

You’d think I’ll be homeless in Kauai, but my newly made friend gave me a roof over my head. I enjoyed a beach bonfire, admired the twinkling stars, listened to the stringing of guitar and the sound of lazy waves. I got to spend 2 extra lazy days skinny dipping, swinging on a hammock and listening to my country music on scenic drives around the island.

What are the odds that you get a delayed flight and still miss the next flight consecutively, earning you 2 extra unplanned days in Kauai? This is a pretty crazy turn of events that I might write another post just to detail it all! How such happenings (that were beyond my control) transpired during this trip made this an extra memorable and special experience. It made me believe that maybe, just maybe, the universe has a plan for us after all.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” bg_color=”#ededed” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/4″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][image_with_animation image_url=”20793″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” img_link_target=”_blank” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%” img_link=”https://www.belaroundtheworld.com/day-trips-from-reykjavik-iceland-with-preposterous-views/”%5D%5B/vc_column%5D%5Bvc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”3/4″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]TRAVEL HACK:[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]As always, I find the best way to source for the cheapest flights is by checking on Skyscanner & Momondo.

As for accommodation, I found HotelsCombined to provide the most comprehensive, unbiased comparison of different hotel sites. 🙂 Airbnb is another reliable one for accommodation. Use this link to get $62 off!

Protect yourself against mishaps & misadventures with World Nomads travel insurance.

Order your very own portable WiFi device & travel easy with Tep Wireless.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]I would also never have thought about how rampant wild chickens are on the islands of Hawaii. I felt the full brunt of it on the first morning in Kauai – I woke to their cooing way before dawn broke, groaned at their sounds and covered my ears in a bid to get more sleep in.

It turns out that the story of the rampant chickens was due to cock fighting being a hobby of the locals in the past. The hurricane in 2014 caused them to break out and since then, they went on a kamikaze all over the island.

Phew, that was one long introduction. Without further ado, let’s bring you this travel guide to Kauai, Hawaii, based on my real-time experiences in September 2019!

Best Beaches in Kauai, Hawaii

During my short time here, I was able beach hop around the island and visit a couple of beaches. It ranges from touristy ones to off-the-beaten, local beaches that no one else except the locals really knows about.

Best Beaches on South Kauai, Hawaii

Poipu Beach

A number of hotels congregate around here, which makes it a popular spot for tourists and families to lay by the beach here. It was too overcrowded in my opinion.

Lawa’i Beach

Lawa’i-Beach

A small stretch of beach beside Beach House Restaurant. There isn’t much sand to lie on the time I was there, but it might just be a case of high tide during then. The waters though, were a clear, transparent blue.

Ka Lae O Kaiwa

A hidden beach only locals go to. The road and the path leading to it all warned of trespassers to stay away. Signs of a gate being broken in were the only evidences that it is a well-trodden path. We had to go through overgrown branches to get to this little beach. (I will probably be condemned for sharing this so shhh, let this be a secret between us?)

Salt Pond Park

As opposed to the name, it’s actually quite an awesome beach to be. We came here after our visit to Waimea Canyon to spend the rest of our afternoon. Not nearly as crowded as the rest of the beaches in the South, I also spotted a wild seal swimming up the shore to sunbathe! That was a really rare sight. The lifeguard usually cordons off the area when wild seals come onshore to protect them.

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Nearby, the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge is also worth stopping by for a photo.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” bg_color=”#ededed” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/4″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][image_with_animation image_url=”5304″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” img_link_target=”_blank” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%” img_link=”https://www.belaroundtheworld.com/12-best-beaches-world-bookmark-part-3/”%5D%5B/vc_column%5D%5Bvc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”3/4″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]Don’t miss:[/vc_column_text][nectar_btn size=”small” open_new_tab=”true” button_style=”see-through-2″ color_override=”#f27471″ hover_color_override=”#f27471″ hover_text_color_override=”#ffffff” icon_family=”default_arrow” text=”Best Beaches In The World To Bookmark” url=”https://www.belaroundtheworld.com/12-best-beaches-world-bookmark-part-3/”%5D%5B/vc_column%5D%5B/vc_row%5D%5Bvc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]

Best Beaches on North Shore Kauai, Hawaii

Larsen’s Beach

This was a pretty unknown beach until my local friend showed me. Totally isolated (except for maybe a couple on it when we went), it’s no wonder it’s known as a nude beach!

Hanalei Pier

Wanting to catch the first sunset in Kauai, we drove north to Hanalei Pier for sunset. It is the PERFECT beach to catch a sunset. Because it’s situated at the northernmost point of the island, the sun sets right in front of you from the beachfront.

Another reason why I love this beach is that bordering the beach on the left are the mountains Kauai is so known for. The waters here are calmer, so it’s a popular beach for swimming and stand up paddle boarding.

Hanalei-Bay-sunset-Kauai-Hawaii

The time I was at Hanalei Pier, clouds were heavy, rain was looming and still, the children were jumping off the pier with no care in the world. The water was cold so I was hesitant to get in the water.

Jose kept encouraging me and since I’m no coward, I jumped in too! The only thing that surprised me was how I wasn’t able to pull myself up from the waters onto the pier that stood above my head, pull-up style, a feat my climbing muscles normally could. Travel sure takes a toll on my fitness.

Kahalahala Beach/ Lumahai Beach

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Kahalahala beach

Lumahai beach

From Kahalahala beach, you can walk west to arrive at Lumahai beach. These 2 beaches aren’t as populated and is a nice place to wind your day, listening to the waves.

Haena Beach

The furthest you can go in North Shore, this beach is uniquely known for the naturally-formed cave that is beside it. You can go under the cave in the dark.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” bg_color=”#ededed” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/4″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][image_with_animation image_url=”17700″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” img_link_target=”_blank” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%” img_link=”https://www.belaroundtheworld.com/best-hardside-carry-on-luggage/”%5D%5B/vc_column%5D%5Bvc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”3/4″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]Don’t miss:[/vc_column_text][nectar_btn size=”small” open_new_tab=”true” button_style=”see-through-2″ color_override=”#f27471″ hover_color_override=”#f27471″ hover_text_color_override=”#ffffff” icon_family=”default_arrow” text=”Best Hardside Carry On Luggage Ever Invented!” url=”https://www.belaroundtheworld.com/best-hardside-carry-on-luggage/”%5D%5B/vc_column%5D%5B/vc_row%5D%5Bvc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]

Best Beaches on West Kauai, Hawaii

Polihale Beach

Another beach unknown to most tourists, coming here involves going through a dirt road that meanders all the way in. We were the only ones on the beach when we went, so naturally, I couldn’t pass up the chance to skinny dip. As one of the hottest beaches in Kauai (the sand actually BURNS your barefoot!), it was the perfect place to get a tan. On its right, you get a perfect view of Waimea Canyon.

Best Beaches on East Kauai, Hawaii

Keālia Beach

A local favourite in Kapa’a that is amazing no matter what the time of day is. The north end is a great place for a beginner swim and with a 4WD vehicle, you can enjoy a little more. Head south and come across rough waters and eventually the best spot for bonfires. Stay here for sunset for a gorgeous view.

Kalapaki Beach

Located in Lihue right at the Marriott along with several popular restaurants, relax to the natural bay with small waves while watching cruise ships and fishing vessels make their rounds or move around with other rental boat on Kalapaki beach. Aside from that, there’s always action at the volleyball nets on the beach!

Hideaways Beach

This small area is comprised of mostly reef with a few small swimming areas is at the end of a steep albeit short and manageable walk. Ropes line the path most of the way down to a drop with a clear blue view of the ocean. Enjoy the little beach but don’t stay too long as overcrowding occurs!

What to eat in Kauai, Hawaii

Beach House Restaurant

I was fortunate to be treated to a really nice meal for my first meal in Kauai. I’d been invited by Beach House Restaurant for a lovely welcome lunch.

A beachfront restaurant set at the southernmost point of Kauai in Poipu, if anything, I was first struck by the location it was set in.

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Right outside the restaurant is a lawn so green that I could lie on it all day, a book in hand, under the shadows of healthy palm trees. The lovely weather reflected such a happy, summer blue colour off the sea that anyone would want to plunge in to have salty water on one’s skin.

If there’s one cocktail you have to try in Hawaii, it’s Mai Tai. It’s a refreshing summer cocktail that no only looks nice on the nice, but also sweet on the palate. The other drink we had here was Makahiki Punch.

Lobster-Deviled Eggs and Poke Tacos

For starters, we had Lobster-Deviled Eggs and Poke Tacos. You can never go wrong with poke in Hawaii!

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Baja-Style Fish Tacos

Miso-Glazed Catch Of The Day

For mains, we picked Baja-Style Fish Tacos and Miso-Glazed Catch Of The Day (striped marlin). The fried noodles was cooked to a tasteful perfection (or maybe that’s just the Asian in me to miss noodles).

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Chocolate Cream Pie

Sorbet

Dessert consists of Chocolate Cream Pie, a classic dessert in Hawaii so we couldn’t let it pass us by, and sorbet. The cream on the pie was too much for me to handle – I’m not a fan of cream anyway. The mango, coconut and pink guava sorbet was a light and refreshing choice if you want something lighter on the stomach for dessert.

Lawa’i Beach

We walked our huge meal off at Lawa’i Beach beside the restaurant after.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” bg_color=”#ededed” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/4″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][image_with_animation image_url=”20558″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” img_link_target=”_blank” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%” img_link=”https://www.belaroundtheworld.com/best-cafes-bali-cannot-miss-ubud-canggu-seminyak-uluwatu/”%5D%5B/vc_column%5D%5Bvc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”3/4″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]Read this:[/vc_column_text][nectar_btn size=”small” open_new_tab=”true” button_style=”see-through-2″ color_override=”#f27471″ hover_color_override=”#f27471″ hover_text_color_override=”#ffffff” icon_family=”default_arrow” text=”25 Tried & Tested Cafes in Bali You Absolutely Cannot Miss” url=”https://www.belaroundtheworld.com/best-cafes-bali-cannot-miss-ubud-canggu-seminyak-uluwatu/”%5D%5B/vc_column%5D%5B/vc_row%5D%5Bvc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]

Poke

A classic Hawaiian dish, I was already obsessed with eating Poke bowls in Singapore before I came to Hawaii. It being so common here (you can easily find it in supermarkets which is a more affordable option) made it easily my go-to whenever I needed a sashimi fix!

Acai

I’d always thought Acai bowls originated from Hawaii because of how it had been portrayed. Turns out I couldn’t be more wrong! After all, açai berries originate from Brazil, and Acai bowls aren’t as common in Hawaii as I thought.

Shave Ice

Apparently it’s a really famous “Hawaiian” thing to try in Hawaii. I tried it at JoJo’s Shave Ice and was disappointed, for it was merely plain crushed ice with lots of different colouring. It didn’t even taste that spectacular, just a good photo prop.

Hiking on Waimea Canyon – Things to know

Today’s agenda is to conquer the trails on Waimea Canyon.

The drive from the East (more specifically, Kapa’a) to Waimea Canyon takes about 1.5 hours, so it’s worth factoring that in mind when planning your trip. You should also know that it gets more crowded as the later you go, and with limited parking space in each of the viewpoints, it’s definitely worth starting your day early![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” bg_color=”#ededed” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/4″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][image_with_animation image_url=”5322″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” img_link_target=”_blank” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%” img_link=”https://www.belaroundtheworld.com/science-behind-hiking-clothes-what-to-pack-why-how/”%5D%5B/vc_column%5D%5Bvc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”3/4″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]Don’t miss:[/vc_column_text][nectar_btn size=”small” open_new_tab=”true” button_style=”see-through-2″ color_override=”#f27471″ hover_color_override=”#f27471″ hover_text_color_override=”#ffffff” icon_family=”default_arrow” text=”The Science Behind Packing for Hiking – What To Pack, Why and How” url=”https://www.belaroundtheworld.com/science-behind-hiking-clothes-what-to-pack-why-how/”%5D%5B/vc_column%5D%5B/vc_row%5D%5Bvc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]Here are a few points we went on our visit that is highly recommended:

Kalalau Lookout – This is where you’ll get the complete view of the horseshoe-shaped Kalalau Valley. It may be quite a distance away, but is still magnificent nevertheless!

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Pu’u O Kila Lookout on Pihea Trail – This is where you can do a trek on the Pihea Trail to get a view of Kalalau Valley from the middle of the valley. Wherever you stop, you’ll get different angles of the same view. I enjoyed doing the beginning section of the trail as it involves some scrambling of different levels of rock surfaces.

Waimea Canyon Trail – this is one trail worth being on to your feet dirty with Waimea’s mud. 🙂 Each way is 1.8 miles long, with an estimated 2-3 hours to complete the trail. It may be muddy and slippery if wet.

Pu’u Hinahina Lookout on the Canyon Trail – Worth a look if you’re on the Waimea Canyon Trail.

We stopped by Puu Ka Pele Picnic Grounds for our picnic lunch. Across it, you can find Waimea Canyon Lookout.

Waimea Canyon Lookout – It’s a cliff viewpoint lookout for a 180-degree view of Waimea Canyon State Park.

We spent about half a day cruising through the many trails and viewpoints on Waimea Canyon. Depending on the extent of trails you want to embark on, you can stay longer or shorter here.

Do note that a USD5 parking fee is imposed on major lookout points.

Other hikes in Kauai, Hawaii

Sleeping Giant

On the East of Kauai, Sleeping Giant is another popular 2-mile (3.2km) hike that I went on. It was a fun hike through the forest. It’s a trail that’s mostly under the cover of canopies.

It’s an easy and straightforward hike, but it involves scrambling up rocks quarter way up and towards the end to the summit.

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The last stretch before the top.

So close to the summit!

It is the highest point in the east and the 360-degree views stretches for miles!

View of Wailua from the top

Getting around in Kauai, Hawaii

It’s almost impossible to get around in Kauai without a car, and renting a car in Kauai is almost your only option, unless you have the luxury of time to wait for public buses which come infrequently.

It is in Kauai that I first drove a car on my own, on the opposite side of the road. This was a major life milestone personally.

I rented my car from Discount Hawaii Car Rental which promises the lowest price on the island. I loved the old man at the counter who served me when I arrived. He assuaged my fears of driving on my own, and even gave me a new model of the Ford to drive in when I was in Kauai

Here are the estimated driving times from Lihue Airport:

to Koioa (South): 25min

to Poipu (South): 30min

to Hanapepe (South): 30 minutes

to Kalalau Lookout (West): 1h 40min

to Waimea Canyon (West): 1h15min

to Hanalei (North): 1h

to Wailua (East): 15min

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” bg_color=”#ededed” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/4″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][image_with_animation image_url=”20609″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” img_link_target=”_blank” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%” img_link=”https://www.belaroundtheworld.com/pre-travel-checklist-things-to-do-before-international-travel/”%5D%5B/vc_column%5D%5Bvc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”3/4″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]Read this:[/vc_column_text][nectar_btn size=”small” open_new_tab=”true” button_style=”see-through-2″ color_override=”#f27471″ hover_color_override=”#f27471″ hover_text_color_override=”#ffffff” icon_family=”default_arrow” text=”My Pre-Travel Checklist – 12 Things To Do Before International Travel” url=”https://www.belaroundtheworld.com/pre-travel-checklist-things-to-do-before-international-travel/”%5D%5B/vc_column%5D%5B/vc_row%5D%5Bvc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]

Where to stay in Kauai, Hawaii

I recommend staying in the town of Kapaa because it sits right in the middle of the route to the North and to the South/ West, hence was the most convenient starting point to get to anywhere on the island.

If you’re going on a budget, there are only 2 hostels in Kapaa that offers the lowest priced accommodation in Kauai, but even then, it wasn’t cheap according to Asia standards.

Between Honu’ea International Hostel Kauai and Kauai Beach House Hostel, I chose to stay in the former.

Amenities were basic. My room had at least 10 occupants in bunk bed style with only 1 shower to share amongst us. Parking was free in front of the property. I didn’t find the service all that professional – the receptionists I spoke to all appeared to be foreigners hired in exchange for accommodation. They were vague at most when I asked about recommendations on what to do on the island. I was better off researching/ exploring on my own.

The benefit to staying here is that it’s in between the North and the South/ East, which makes it a convenient starting point for your journey either way.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” bg_color=”#ededed” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/4″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][image_with_animation image_url=”20304″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” img_link_target=”_blank” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%” img_link=”https://www.belaroundtheworld.com/summer-packing-list-all-you-need-every-beach-holiday/”%5D%5B/vc_column%5D%5Bvc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”3/4″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]Read this:[/vc_column_text][nectar_btn size=”small” open_new_tab=”true” button_style=”see-through-2″ color_override=”#f27471″ hover_color_override=”#f27471″ hover_text_color_override=”#ffffff” icon_family=”default_arrow” text=”Summer Packing List – All You Ever Need for Every Beach Holiday!” url=”https://www.belaroundtheworld.com/summer-packing-list-all-you-need-every-beach-holiday/”%5D%5B/vc_column%5D%5B/vc_row%5D%5Bvc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column_text]

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my week and a half in Hawaii (Oahu and Kauai), the new friends I’ve made on the island all (coincidentally) talk about being in the present and enjoying the moment.

As the first leg of my month-long solo trip to the US, it’s a very promising prelude to the rest of my trip in the US, given how fortunate I am with my Couchsurfing hosts and local people. They’ve been so generous with hosting me, showing off the islands to me and we’ve had very engaging conversations. I’ve truly enjoyed my time learning about their stories.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” color_overlay=”#ffffff” overlay_strength=”0.3″ enable_shape_divider=”true” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=”mountains”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_text_separator title=”Read other useful USA posts!”][recent_posts style=”slider_multiple_visible” category=”united-states-of-america” columns=”2″ button_color=”Accent-Color” hover_shadow_type=”default” order=”DESC” orderby=”modified” posts_per_page=”8″][vc_column_text][mailchimp]

24-28 Aug 2019, Sat-Wed[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

First Timer’s Travel Guide to Kauai, Hawaii – All you Need To Know! The unfolding of the events in Oahu and Kauai have made me embrace unexpected occurrences to a T.