Thursday Travel Inspiration: Out on the Ocean with Rynae Grewan

When we leave high school, we often wonder how our former classmates are doing.  What they are up to and if life is treating them kindly?  It was this curiosity and Facebook (thank you technologyJ ) that helped me track down Rynae Grewan, a former school mate to find out why he chose to venture into the open water instead of sticking to the rivers that we are all used to.   Read on as Rynae shares his story with us.

“You are the master of your destiny. You can influence, direct and control your own environment. You can make your life what you want it to be.” Napoleon Hill

Who is Rynae Grewan?

 I was born in Winterton, Kwa- Zulu Natal on the 12^th August 1985, a small farm town on the foot of the Drakensburg Mountain Range. I come from a Family of 6 members my dad Richard, mum Salome, and I am the second youngest of four siblings. Namely Serena, Raphael, Rynae and Symone. We later then moved to Newcastle, South Africa (which I call home)…. I attended Lennoxton Primary School then at the age of 13 attended Senior Primary School until it was time to move to Newcastle High School.

I matriculated at Newcastle High School in 2003.  I’ve always had a keen interest in business (got that from my dad), travelling, the great outdoors, health & fitness and sport. In a few descriptive words about myself I am adventurous, bold, daring, friendly, passionate, personable and spirited person.

What inspired you to work abroad and how did your family feel about this decision?

My intention was never to work abroad but just to visit and travel. I didn’t know how I was going to travel but I was going to do it.  Being a health and fitness enthusiast, I took classes in exercise science and sports massage therapy in Johannesburg. It was in one of those lectures I heard about working on cruise liners. So that the ignited the flame to work whilst travelling, killing two birds with one stone if you must.


Half Moon Cay, Bahamas

 When I first told my parents about working on a cruise line, It was like they did not believe me, they didn’t say anything about it. Later on I brought it up again and then they realized I was serious. As a close knit family, it was hard for them to allow me to work abroad for months at a time, but then they realized what a wonderful opportunity I had. It still hurts every time I leave home but they are so happy for me, especially after they hear about all my adventures.

Why did you choose the cruise ship line of work?

Although, I am in hospitality and entertainment now, at the time it was the easiest way to get to travel and it fell in line with my work experience. I had an opportunity to share my expertise with people from all over the world, whilst fulfilling my dreams to travel the world. It could have not worked out better. I am truly blessed.


Aloha  Honolulu -  Hawaii



Do you get to see a lot of the countries? If so which have been your favourite and what cool things have you experienced there?

Oh, yes! Since I started working for Holland America Line in May 2010. I have seen and been to 5 continents, I am looking forward to my 6^th in February next year.

Thus far, I have no favorite. Each country is beautiful in its own unique way.  You cannot compare one country to another. Well, that’s my opinion.

I look back fondly on hikes through the beautiful landscapes of Alaska, zip-lining over through the rainforests of Mexico, cliff diving and sky diving into and over the deep blue waters of Hawaii. I have jumped off waterfalls into lagoons in Fiji, snorkeled in the breathtaking crystal waters of the South Pacific Islands, successfully navigating the alleys of Marrakech and the horseback riding in New Zealand.


At the River Jordan


The opportunity to explore the history and architecture of Europe, discovering the historical Biblical places in Israel and standing in the river Jordan. Experiencing one of the seven wonders of the ancient world- the Great Pyramids in Egypt.  Just to mention a few. I can go on and on….




Great Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

  What about you has changed since you started travelling?

Traveling has changed me like little else can. I now understand that the world is both a big and small place. It has taught me compassion, to be humble and grateful for what and who I have in my life, to live adventure, I have developed skills that I did not know I had and it has broadened my mind and the way I think, patience, it has given me a sense of curiosity and wonder and how to adapt in different circumstances.

How do you see the world since you left South Africa? Did you transition easily or was it hard?

Hanging out with the kids in Senegal.

The world is made of all its countries and people. We are all flesh and blood just living in different countries and environments. It’s just the way we were brought up from birth that defines who we are, our different backgrounds and cultures. There is nothing that makes one country better than the other. There is not one nationality that is better than another. There is not one food that is tastier than another. It’s all about what you’ve been brought up with. I’ve eaten and tasted food from all over, but I still prefer food from my home, South Africa. The food that I’m used toJ. Everyone has to learn to work with one another in peace and harmony.

What are the lessons you have learnt whilst abroad?

-I have learnt that you cannot please everyone.

-Take risks and don’t let a fear of failure to hold you back.

-When things are not looking up, pick up your head and roll with the punches.

-Don’t be afraid to ask for help and admit when you are wrong.

-How to talk to strangers.

-Surround yourself with positive people and people who will influence in a good way.

Waterfalls, Port Vila

Would you like to see more countries? If so, where to next and why?

Yes, definitely. Once you start travelling You Can’t Stop and why stop now? I just have two more continents to explore then would’ve done all seven. Those continents are Brazil and Asia. There’s still so much to see and venture. A country that I would love to still do is Antarctica. It’s like a different world out there.

Have you started any new hobbies, business whilst abroad?

No, that’s tough working on a cruise line. You never in one country long enough to start something. However you do meet people with great ideas and opportunities.

On Top of the World - AB Mountain- Skagway, Alaska

What message do you want to share out there with other guys and girls of colour?

 Learn to love yourself and others,  it will take you a long way. Do not be jealous of others. Be contents nothing comes easy, it takes hard work and

Perseverance

 If you get a chance, travel. I have given you enough reason to do so.