Showing all posts tagged Thursday Postcard Hunt

In Blogging and the Web, Cambodia life, Expat Life, Geek Talk, hobby, Sreisaatv2

Jeepney: Philippines’ Rolling Masterpieces

Author sreisaatPosted on 8 Comments

For this week’s Thursday Photo Hunt, I’m presenting to you the Philippines’ iconic mode of transportation and a public art gallery on wheels: the jeepney. More than just a vehicle, the jeepney is a living, breathing masterpiece that encapsulates the Filipino spirit.

These colourful jeepneys used to be the King of the Road.

The jeepney was born from the ingenuity of Filipinos after World War II. When American troops left the Philippines, they left behind surplus military jeeps. Resourceful Filipinos transformed these vehicles into public transport, extending their frames, adding roofs, and decorating them. The name “jeepney” is a blend of “jeep” and “jitney,” a term for early American shared taxis. (Source)

Over the years, the jeepneys have evolved into a symbol of the country’s resilience and artistic flair. Adorned with intricate designs, bold colors, and often religious or pop culture themes, jeepneys are a feast for the eyes. They are  like mobile art galleries, each one a unique expression of its owner’s creativity and personality. From religious icons to comic book heroes, the decorations are as diverse as the Filipino people themselves. Today, these vehicles are more than just a means of getting around; they are rolling public art galleries that reflect the nation’s rich culture and imagination.

Riding a jeepney is an adventure in itself. As a former student and a commuter, I can attest to the thrill of squeezing into a packed jeepney with other students, enjoying discounted fares and the camaraderie of shared experiences. The music, the crowds, the constant motion, the smell – it’s a sensory overload. Passing the fare along the row, like a human conveyor belt, to the driver and back for the change, is a unique Filipino custom. And when it’s time to disembark, the simple phrase “mama, para po sa tabi” (stop here, please) is all you need to signal your stop. Beyond the ride itself, the jeepney offers a front-row seat to the daily lives of Filipinos . It’s a place to observe, to connect, and to be inspired by the vibrant spirit of the nation (read: weaving stories around the faces around me while riding the jeep home).

More jeepney photos here.

In Expat Life, Geek Talk, Sreisaatv2

Thursday Postcard Hunt: Geographical twins

Author sreisaatPosted on 5 Comments

Calling all map lovers! Buckle up for this week’s Thursday Postcard Hunt, because it’s a treasure trove for geography enthusiasts like myself. We often think of maps and flags on postcards and stamps as a bit, well, plain. But let me tell you, when they’re creatively designed and spark unexpected connections, like the postcard I have today, they can be absolutely mind-blowing, a game-changer!

This week, we’re venturing into the heart of Eastern Europe to explore Lithuania, known as Lietuva in its native tongue. Let’s see where this map-on- a-postcard takes us!

Lithuania’s location makes it a fascinating geographic and cultural blend.  Historically, its ties to the Eastern Bloc placed it firmly in Eastern Europe. Geographically, it sits snug on the Baltic Sea’s eastern coast, making it a natural part of the Baltic region. But its modern political landscape tells a different story – Lithuania is a proud member of the European Union and NATO, aligning it with Central Europe. This fascinating mix of influences is part of what makes Lithuania so unique. Rather than getting hung up on labels, let’s focus on the map card itself.

My postcard features an outline map, showcasing Lithuania’s diverse landscapes and natural treasures, and one that has a surprisingly familiar shape. Lithuania boasts a fascinating history. Once part of the Soviet Union, it’s now a rising star in the Baltic region, brimming with dynamism and growth – one of the fastest growing economies in the Baltics. Its capital, Vilnius, even held the prestigious title of European Capital of Culture in 2009.

But here’s a curious detail you might not have noticed: Lithuania’s shape bears an uncanny resemblance to Cambodia (where I am), a Southeast Asian country! Take a closer look at the outline maps below – both countries share a similar outline, broad at the top and tapering towards the south.  It’s almost like a geographical heart-shaped twins across continents, a fascinating quirk and wonder that sparks one’s imagination.

Lithuania
Cambodia

Intrigued? This postcard is a treasure! Perhaps this is going to be a start of an online research to unearth mirror image landforms across the globe. Remember, the world is full of unexpected connections waiting to be discovered. So, embark on your own map-tastic adventure and share your findings, please!


Sources: Outline Map of Lithuania, Outline Map of Cambodia.