The first night's sleep while traveling (HOKKAIDO WINTER WANDERINGS) is always
restless, don't you agree? For me, as a solo traveler, it's a mix of
excitement, adjusting to new surroundings, and maybe a hint of horror movie
scenarios playing in my mind - haha! I hardly slept, alone
in a new place, managing only about three hours before rising early to shower
and layer up in winter clothes, eager for the buffet breakfast.
The breakfast spread was a tantalizing mix
of Asian, Japanese, and Western delights, offering a tempting array of salads,
egg dishes, and other mouthwatering treats. I made sure to fuel up with
energy-packed foods, gearing up for the adventures that awaited.
Speaking of adventures, the options were
laid out: skiing, snowmobile rides, or a relaxing day at the hotel. But in
Hokkaido, known for its wild beauty, there was no hesitation - I craved
adventure! Both skiing and snowmobile rides were on our own tab, separate from
the tour package.
Opting for the snow mobile ride, I embraced
the thrill of the unknown. While skiing enthusiasts headed to conquer the
slopes of Hilton Niseko Village, our group set off for an exhilarating
snowmobile escapade in a nearby area.
Goodness me! Winter in Hokkaido during its
peak season - it was quite the challenge! I found myself in a dilemma,
wondering if I could handle this hefty, solid mobile contraption, whether you
call it a scooter or anything else. Everyone else was already paired up and
ready to go. Thanks to a fellow tour buddy who encouraged me with a "You
can do it, Ms. Nava!" I geared up with boots, gloves, and helmet, and
nervously took the lead, to kick-start our ride.
Honestly, it was a struggle. The mobile
was four or five times heavier than me, and at one point, I thought I had
reached my limit and should just give up. But somehow, I maneuvered through the
narrow, snow-filled uphill path, with snowflakes swirling around like crazy,
until we reached the top. After a much-needed 10-minute break, the others were
signaled to go ahead, and I ended up being the last one to set off. Self-doubt
crept in - why did they let others go first? Was my confidence shattered?
I was also the last to return downhill,
greeted by cheers, laughter, and applause from my fellow tour buddies. They
clapped for me, and in that moment, I felt like a champion! What an
exhilarating experience - there were moments when I feared tumbling off a
cliff. Yet, for this lady, it was an achievement I still proudly cherish to
this day.
What might seem effortless for others,
whether on social media or in stories, the reality of handling that snowmobile
in winter was like facing a monstrous challenge. Trust me, if you've ever
ridden a snowmobile, you'd understand - it demands determination and a
relentless spirit of never giving up.
Amidst the giggles and laughter that seemed endless, we made our way to a tiny stall next door for some steaming hot milk. I was so thrilled that I couldn't stop talking excitedly, keeping everyone entertained until it was time to move on.
After all the
excitement, we headed to a small restaurant for lunch. The spread was already
laid out beautifully, each dish presented with care. A pot of steaming broth
simmered with seafood and Japanese vegetables over a gentle flame, accompanied
by rice, bento box sides, and hot Japanese tea - a meal
that awakened the senses.
Later in the
evening, we returned to Hilton Niseko Village. Despite my eagerness to explore,
the snow and wind deterred me, and thoughts of the snowmobile ride kept
lingering in my mind. Eventually, I settled for a leisurely walk around Nilton
Niseko Village until it was time for dinner at Yotei Restaurant. I enjoyed a
light meal, bid goodnight to everyone, and retired to my room.
To be continued...
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