With the exception of London, I’ve always lived in cities – Singapore, Sydney, Hong Kong – which have harbours and beaches. I love the sea and anything to do with the water. I love the sound of the waves lapping up the beach, the smell of the ocean, the wonders of the floral and fauna within it, the wide expanse of it and the promises of adventures it holds of lands afar.

I have been taking the ocean for granted; assuming that it’ll always be around me and can’t fathom the idea of someone not having seen the ocean before. I mean, the Earth is 75% ocean after all. However, when I was in Mongolia, I realised that most Mongolians who live in the countryside would never have seen, and will likely never see, any beach, sea or ocean before. For one thing, Mongolia is a land-locked country, and only lakes exist in the country. The people in the countryside are not rich, and are not likely to venture out of Mongolia.

Currently, the international airport in the capital Ulan Baatar, is so small and is connected only to a handful of cities. We flew off on a Monday, and that day we saw that there were only 9 international flights for the entire day. That’s what busy aviation transport hubs get in 10 minutes! Of course, that’s going to change in time to come, what with the developments in the country brought about by the mining industry. I hope, though, the beauty of the countryside won’t be destroyed and overtaken by mining companies. But that’s probably just wishful thinking on my part.

Anyhow, it crossed my mind that many people in Mongolia would never have the chance to admire and enjoy the beauty of the ocean. My guide has never been abroad and she said to many Mongolians, the lakes are like oceans to them. Many of them don’t know how to swim as there really isn’t much need to learn.

I count my blessings for having the opportunity to: live in such beautiful cities and travel to many amazing places in the world!