I first came to next island, in december of 2010. like many, I was curious to see what it would look like and what there was to do there. so, I paid those rotters in the federal empire their 40 ped and took their disorienting (and, not to mention noisy) teleporter to the island. my initial stop, the crystal resort, I found to be interesting. it was heavily populated by some strange breeds of monkeys. incidentally, one could facetiously argue the same could be said for calypso - particularly, around nea's place. some of these monkeys had been domesticated to provide trade, auction, and other light but essential services. I wandered amongst the wild but docile monkeys and village boars looking at the tiki architecture. now, I've never been a big fan of sticks and grass woven into buildings, lamps, and furniture; however, it seemed to fit the atmosphere of the place. I had brought a hovercraft and some supplies with me. after looking over the map, I decided to start my exploration on the smaller island off the coast of the larger one where the crytral resort was located. much to my surprise, this small island appeared to be some sort of bizarre theme park literally littered with all sorts of horrible creatures intent on trying to kill me. in the concession areas, there was loud music, tacky lighting, and a general carnival-like atmosphere. I wandered about aimlessly, clutching my purse, trying to make sense of it all. needless to say, I failed. upon retrieving my hovercraft from the valet (I didn't bother with a tip), I set my sights and navigation back to the 'big' island. I spent several days roaming about the main island exploring the sites and trying to map the area as best as I could. I'd return periodically to the crystal resort to lounge about, talk with someone, or practice my aim on a few of the monkeys harassing the locals and vacationers. I liked traveling across the island and testing the various areas for their suitability as ore/energy fields. I collected a good array of various resources and was quite happy with my prospecting and surveying. after about a week of mining exploration, some sort of mass migration occurred and much of the island which has been mostly void of animals was suddenly covered with large herds. although this did tone down in time, it made my traveling a little more cautious. periodically, I would join a small group who were intent on trying to cull some of those herds and flocks. I like helping out and the people I was with seemed to tolerate me, which I thought was good. normally, I operate alone as the majority of colonists find me too annoying and boring to be around. I think this stems from my preference in walking around rather than running and my aversion to wearing armour. I like to stop and reset quite a bit, as well, and don't care much for laying waste to everything in my vision as fast as possible. also, I don't really care for firearms and only use a light pistol on small things that are unsuitable for a blade or my claw. eventually, the time came when I had to leave. I had a slew of work pending that I needed to finish and other plans to set into motion. I enjoyed my time on the island immensely. I liked the scenery and most of the wildlife. and, I know, when I have the opportunity, I'll return to spend some more time relaxing and going on my little adventures. next time, though, I'll try to bring some goods the locals can use and some extra coins to buy their materials and souvenirs. I always like to help out the local economies when I travel. although, I don't care much for touts who prey on unsuspecting tourists. however, I always laugh when they ask me "wut u pay?" and frown at my response. like, they're the seller, they know exactly what they want, they're just hoping that I'm stupid and will overpay. I could go on and on about touts, as I find them very amusing in a perverse sort of way; however, I do think of they're parasites. honest and ethical business people operate much differently. perhaps, one day, I'll write about them. it would be good for a laugh. in the meantime, I'll continue my work and plan for when I can return to the island.
I like the last few sentences of this entry, which I think was the point of your piece. You just took a long time building up to it. Perhaps I should start a Next Island University - "The Magyar University of Straight Talk" Your diploma will be achieved when half the people on the forum dont like you, and the other half dont know you! Just kidding. Looking forward to the comparative piece on ethical vs predatory business practices in EU. When you write it send me a reminder.
I've likely already graduated. however, I was never very good with school programmes. I do intend on writing more about touts, later. perhaps, after I return to the island. I've been putting that off the last few weeks for economic reasons. I am, though, curious to see what has transpired during my absence.
Lots of Calypso ubers inflating prices here for reselling purposes, mainly. Its sad. Calypso is actually cheap compared to these new worlds.