I find as I continue to live life, I am definite that there are no coincidences of events or experiences. There is something that is working underneath that shapes and teaches us and if we are willing to listen, we can learn much about ourselves. I also believe that these forces continue whether or not we are willing to acknowledge them. Many people share stories of epiphanies, I believe these are moments of clarity or as Jaimal Yogis describes in his book, “Saltwater Buddha” becoming “awake.” Some people purposely endeavor to become awake by studying Buddhism. Most people don’t study but I believe many people experience a “Buddhist” moment in their life and what they do with the experience defines their future lives and how they relate to the world around them. It is a fork in the road of life and all of us must make these decision many times whether we are “awake” or not.

I was asked to read the “Saltwater Buddha” and offer a review for the author. Initially, I was reluctant to begin as I am not a fan of reading PDF doc’s for leisure or study. I prefer to have my coffee, pillows arranged on the couch and the table close for my legs to rest on, with a physical book in my hands. However reluctant, I began reading and I was immediately captivated and soon forgot my creature comforts habits. Jaimal writes a story about a boy on a journey of self-discovery in the age of suburbia, Play Station, CD’s and MTV. He creates a character that is complex and unique, but it is the characters desires and dreams that creates a knowing connection immediately. On the most basic level, I believe all of us want to be happy, joyous, and free but with societal demands many never experience nor achieve all three simultaneously. Leaving us with a feeling in our gut that “something is missing?” and it is at these times many of us have these epiphanies. Saltwater Buddha is a journey of a boy who has this empty feeling and decides to not dream but live his dreams. I believe everyone can relate to this book because the experience is a human one and includes all age groups and both genders. more…

1. Canary Islands – Spain

THE WAVES
Lanzarote and Fuerteventura can often get crowded, but have a good selection of reef- and point-breaks. A yacht charter will take you to less accessible islands such as La Graciosa and Lobos, which have top-quality point-breaks for surfers of all abilities.

WHEN TO GO
Consistently big swells from October to March.

ON DRY LAND
On Lanzarote, the volcanic Timanfaya National Park and the spectacular views afforded by the Mirador del Río shouldn’t be missed. The Sahara-like sand dunes on the island of Fuerteventura are also worth seeing.

2. HOSSEGOR – COTE D’ARGENT, FRANCE

THE WAVES
Ideal for everyone from complete beginners to experts. Surfers head here from all over the world for the late-summer swells, and several pro contests are held locally each year. Crowds can usually be avoided by travelling away from the main breaks.

WHEN TO GO
August to October for warm water; Spring to avoid the crowds.

ON DRY LAND
Villages and lakes leading up to the Côte d’Argent to the north; to the south, the historical Basque city of Bayonne, and the elegant resort of Biarritz. Inland, the Pyrenees visible from the coast are great for walking and mountain biking. more…