Thinking Back Home in Google Maps

And when I look into maps, I tend to get homesick. All rights reserved to Google Inc. for all mentions.
Photo credit - Link

Do not ask me directions. Never. Do not even try. I am bad with maps, GPS, street names and any navigation-related questions. It is not because I am hiding behind the notion that women cannot just read maps - as a matter of fact I can - but seriously, I end up being unsure where to go in the end. Or I tend to have trips with people who I can just tag along with and take me where I need to go (guilty).

But lately with an online research job that I have had, I have been into Google Maps for too long. Too long in fact that I googled my own hometown (Davao City).

And although currently it has not the biggest resolution in Google Earth nor the Streetview capacity, I can still recognize the rooftops and the tall buildings just looking at those satellite stills. 

That is simply because, I know home. I know the nook and cranny of the lee-ways and highways. The shortcuts and the best route of jeepney to take me to a place for just a one ride fare. Or how to hail a taxicab and sticking to the meter charge. Or simple just walk around the metro night going to my guilty pleasure shrine of fries and ice cream - McDonalds in Bajada. 

I miss the hot summer nights when I can just sleep on my underwear and get up in the middle of the night to drink ice water. I would like to check out the Little China Town in Uyanguren for the street food and retail therapy. Hunting knick knacks with my best friend for some wayward art time in malls and art galleries. 

I would sigh looking at the new malls, my literal walking routes for weekday after work fitness regimen. One day, I might mall-rat my way into them so I can get the burned calories I need to have. 

The resto-hopping with my bohemian pal that can happen any time in the week. The bars I drank with my drinking buddies. The movie nights with snark commentaries. The cleanliness of the streets and the friendliness of the sidewalk vendors. 

But most of all, there are the faces I miss so much from home. The company of loved ones and friends who has become the rarest form of therapy when one is in transitioning period to another country. 

I miss just being home. But it does not mean I am missing out. Thanks to Google Maps and other Apps online, I can get creative in touching base with the people and the one place I will always call home.