Its been a very eventful week!
We arrived in Khao Lak after a 13 hour overnight bus ride from Bangkok. We barely had any sleep so we were dropped off looking like zombies ready to collapse with all our luggage. We managed to stumble upon an incredible hotel right by the beach. Its low season here and everything is closed and the streets are empty. We made a deal with the front desk for a volunteer discount of 600 baht a night which is about 20 dollars.. but split amongst Me Elyse and Nikki it's nothing. So for three weeks we are at a beautiful 4-5 star resort soaking up the sun and the sandy beach for a grand total of $130. They have an amazing pool that's perfect after our tiring days at the schools and the room is fantastic. Its big enough that we can all spread our stuff and has a safe, big closet space, HOT water and air conditioning!! (haven't had that in over a month), king sized bed, a balcony, 4 English tv channels (woo!) and housekeeping everyday. We got a great deal.
On Monday we had an orientation at the Volunteer Centre we are working at. They drove us around to places they have been working on, such as a whole set of houses that are Tsunami proof and affordable for the locals to buy. Its incredible how much reconstruction has been done here. There are still little hints from the past.. broken trees, washed up coral beaches and a few boats that were washed up that are now a couple kilometres from the ocean. They even showed us a Resort that had opened up 5 days before the Tsunami hit, and every worker, and every customer perished.
Tuesday, we started our Volunteer work. It was a little intimidating coming into a school not sure what to expect or even what you are going to be teaching them-- as our coordinator tells us about 5 minutes before we have to teach--the first class was so loud. I had to scream in order to be heard. It was definitely discouraging, especially it being your first class of the day and week. We arrived at the orphanage later on that day, with a class of about 10 children and they brightened my day. They were all so sweet and affectionate. We were greeted with hugs and hand shakes and left with kisses. They were all so beautiful and so interested in learning anything. It lifted my low spirit.
The children all week have been great! i have learned a lot and had a lot of laughs with them. They are so easy going and open and they love when you teach them handshakes! I taught them a few that other kids in Chiang Mai had taught me and they loved them!
Yesterday, I was feeling really homesick. I had had a really bad dream even.. I think it being so close to me coming home now that I'm feeling a little anxious. But then last night, it was like a sign. I couldn't believe how beautiful the sunset was. Nikki Elyse and i just sat watching for half an hour as the sun fell in the sky lighting up the clouds in every orange and yellow color you could think of. It was absolutely amazing. I felt like i had seen a part of heaven. It made me realize that i am not quite done here.. i still have three weeks and i have to live it to the fullest.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Singburi Orphanage
What a week..
I think this week has changed my outlook on a lot of things.
Arriving at the orphanage was very overwhelming. We hopped out of the truck after a 30 minute back road and bumby ride and infront of us was the childrens' "front yard". I barely recocgnized it as a school and orphanage at first glance. The front yard was a mud hole. We had to walk to far edges of the yard to be able to get to the buildings where the kids play. Looking into the classrooms as I trip over a thick bit of mud that begins to swallow my shoe, I watch as kids begin to stack desks and chairs on top of eachother, things are tossed in the air, kids run in and out of classrooms chasing eachother and two boys see who can stand upside down on their heads the longest. My Jaw litterally dropped. I thought, "This is exactly what classrooms would look like with no teachers." --and thats because there isn't, in most of them. Their are nine teachers responsible for a total of 280 children under the age of 16.
John, our coordinator, showed us around the orphanage and what projects he was currently needing help with. John is a waundering spirit as we would like to say that originally lived in England but was robbed in Bangkok with a total of almost 600 pounds (1200 dollars). He fell upon this job shortly after. We could tell right away the passion he had for developing a better environment for the kids in the orphanage.
He showed us the rooms where the children slept everynight, which broke our hearts. The rooms are about the size of my bedroom back in Canada and were expected to fit at least thirty kids. There were no windows, mosquito nets (that protect against getting Malaria), matresses or pillows to lay on. They were cement floors. The orphanage is run by a group of monks and we heard them chanting everyday as we worked. John had told us that the previous volunteers had just finished building a medical clinic and they needed roofing. The orphanage is always in need of funding and they noticed that they could save some money because they saw a lot of extra roofing behind the temple. he asked the monks if they could use the roofing and they told him that he could -- 20 baht per shingle and he must make a 1500 baht donation to the temple on top of that. 1500 baht is about 45 dollars. It seems a little weird if the monks own the orphanage?
Anyways, although we were only able to help out for a week, we managed to help with the foundation for a kitchen. --Yep, the orphanage doesnt even have a kitchen. We mixed the cement and layed it ourselves which was extremely tough work. We painted a whole building of windows and frames and the walls of the big communal room. I found out on the friday i was leaving that John was looking for an artist to paint murals! I was a little broken after hearing that. But i still felt i helped out where i was needed and I tried my very best!
On our last day, Elyse and I decided to use a little bit of the money that we raised (thanks to all you guys supporting me by the way) to buy mosquito nets and matresses. We were able to get 35 mosquito nets that are able to cover at least 150 children and ten matresses with blankets and matching pillows for 200 dollars. It was the most incredible feeling buying all of that at the shop. I couldnt stop smiling and it shocked me that only 200 dollars (which is barely half a weeks wage at home) could do so much. Giving it out to the children the next day was undescribable. I felt I was just glowing with happiness. I knew that we were actually changing children's lives, and making them just a little bit better. Little kids lined up and I pulled each mosquito net for them to carry off to their bedroom. They had huge grins on their faces and they ran off with their new presents. I will never forget that moment in my life.
I think this week has changed my outlook on a lot of things.
Arriving at the orphanage was very overwhelming. We hopped out of the truck after a 30 minute back road and bumby ride and infront of us was the childrens' "front yard". I barely recocgnized it as a school and orphanage at first glance. The front yard was a mud hole. We had to walk to far edges of the yard to be able to get to the buildings where the kids play. Looking into the classrooms as I trip over a thick bit of mud that begins to swallow my shoe, I watch as kids begin to stack desks and chairs on top of eachother, things are tossed in the air, kids run in and out of classrooms chasing eachother and two boys see who can stand upside down on their heads the longest. My Jaw litterally dropped. I thought, "This is exactly what classrooms would look like with no teachers." --and thats because there isn't, in most of them. Their are nine teachers responsible for a total of 280 children under the age of 16.
John, our coordinator, showed us around the orphanage and what projects he was currently needing help with. John is a waundering spirit as we would like to say that originally lived in England but was robbed in Bangkok with a total of almost 600 pounds (1200 dollars). He fell upon this job shortly after. We could tell right away the passion he had for developing a better environment for the kids in the orphanage.
He showed us the rooms where the children slept everynight, which broke our hearts. The rooms are about the size of my bedroom back in Canada and were expected to fit at least thirty kids. There were no windows, mosquito nets (that protect against getting Malaria), matresses or pillows to lay on. They were cement floors. The orphanage is run by a group of monks and we heard them chanting everyday as we worked. John had told us that the previous volunteers had just finished building a medical clinic and they needed roofing. The orphanage is always in need of funding and they noticed that they could save some money because they saw a lot of extra roofing behind the temple. he asked the monks if they could use the roofing and they told him that he could -- 20 baht per shingle and he must make a 1500 baht donation to the temple on top of that. 1500 baht is about 45 dollars. It seems a little weird if the monks own the orphanage?
Anyways, although we were only able to help out for a week, we managed to help with the foundation for a kitchen. --Yep, the orphanage doesnt even have a kitchen. We mixed the cement and layed it ourselves which was extremely tough work. We painted a whole building of windows and frames and the walls of the big communal room. I found out on the friday i was leaving that John was looking for an artist to paint murals! I was a little broken after hearing that. But i still felt i helped out where i was needed and I tried my very best!
On our last day, Elyse and I decided to use a little bit of the money that we raised (thanks to all you guys supporting me by the way) to buy mosquito nets and matresses. We were able to get 35 mosquito nets that are able to cover at least 150 children and ten matresses with blankets and matching pillows for 200 dollars. It was the most incredible feeling buying all of that at the shop. I couldnt stop smiling and it shocked me that only 200 dollars (which is barely half a weeks wage at home) could do so much. Giving it out to the children the next day was undescribable. I felt I was just glowing with happiness. I knew that we were actually changing children's lives, and making them just a little bit better. Little kids lined up and I pulled each mosquito net for them to carry off to their bedroom. They had huge grins on their faces and they ran off with their new presents. I will never forget that moment in my life.
Monday, May 26, 2008
Ko Samet
Wow.. I do not even know how to start to explain this last week.
Ko Samet was a little frustrating to say the least.
We had a very long day traveling to Ko Samet on Monday. It nears the east side of Thailand.
Unfortunately the group i booked through is very very unorganized. To anyone who is thinking of booking a trip with Real gap by the way--RETHINK RIGHT NOW. Anyways, we had a bus ride from a hotel a little outside Singburi at 8 30 in the morning. Now, normally, it would take about four hours to get to the ferry that takes us over to the Island of Ko Samet. Instead, we wait on the bus to fill up for gas and for people to switch their travellers cheques (which are completely pointless haha) which put us back about an hour. We waited at the ferry for about another hour and then yet another hour on the other side once reaching the Island. It seemed that because we were traveling with a massive group of about fourty people it took twice as long as it should have to get to our "resort". We were so relieved to just arrive to beds and an ocean awaiting us. Real Gap had informed us before leaving Thailand that we would be staying in "Resorts". Well. what they took us to was just about a 1 star hotel. I wouldn't even call it a hotel. Maybe more of a hostel? One clunky old fan and a sewage smelling room. Anyways, perhaps i am so negative because of what follows next.
We have to eat at this restaurant called "Joes" because all our food is included with the overall package. The food wasn't bad! we were so happy to have fruit shakes of every kinds possible! But our excitement didn't last long. The next three days consisted of pure sickness. I am not just talking a few of us.. in the group of 40 that came there were about 10 that were lucky enough NOT to get sick.. me included. I was feeling a little sick one day with the runs and stomach pains but nothing like the others had to experience. Some couldn't walk and one girl actually lost her eye sight for a few hours. Most of them were taken to the clinic for injections and a few had to be taken to the hospital in Bangkok.
I think that this past week has kind of taken us of track in a negative way. We are feeling discouraged and frustrated. Nikki, Elyse and I are just looking forward to being on our own. We are looking into traveling to Malaysia for about five days and then off to Khao Lak to work with the Tsunami Volunteer Centre.
The Beach was beautiful and we got one full day of wonderful sun. Nikki got pretty burnt and Elyse is just as tanned as our Thai friend Palm haha. Unfortunately i didn't get to go in the water much because my mosquito bites got infected and they have been pussy. Ive been taking antibiotics.
I apologize for my negativity and maybe after this next week with volunteering at the Orphanage we will feel rejuvenated and ready to experience some more!
Ko Samet was a little frustrating to say the least.
We had a very long day traveling to Ko Samet on Monday. It nears the east side of Thailand.
Unfortunately the group i booked through is very very unorganized. To anyone who is thinking of booking a trip with Real gap by the way--RETHINK RIGHT NOW. Anyways, we had a bus ride from a hotel a little outside Singburi at 8 30 in the morning. Now, normally, it would take about four hours to get to the ferry that takes us over to the Island of Ko Samet. Instead, we wait on the bus to fill up for gas and for people to switch their travellers cheques (which are completely pointless haha) which put us back about an hour. We waited at the ferry for about another hour and then yet another hour on the other side once reaching the Island. It seemed that because we were traveling with a massive group of about fourty people it took twice as long as it should have to get to our "resort". We were so relieved to just arrive to beds and an ocean awaiting us. Real Gap had informed us before leaving Thailand that we would be staying in "Resorts". Well. what they took us to was just about a 1 star hotel. I wouldn't even call it a hotel. Maybe more of a hostel? One clunky old fan and a sewage smelling room. Anyways, perhaps i am so negative because of what follows next.
We have to eat at this restaurant called "Joes" because all our food is included with the overall package. The food wasn't bad! we were so happy to have fruit shakes of every kinds possible! But our excitement didn't last long. The next three days consisted of pure sickness. I am not just talking a few of us.. in the group of 40 that came there were about 10 that were lucky enough NOT to get sick.. me included. I was feeling a little sick one day with the runs and stomach pains but nothing like the others had to experience. Some couldn't walk and one girl actually lost her eye sight for a few hours. Most of them were taken to the clinic for injections and a few had to be taken to the hospital in Bangkok.
I think that this past week has kind of taken us of track in a negative way. We are feeling discouraged and frustrated. Nikki, Elyse and I are just looking forward to being on our own. We are looking into traveling to Malaysia for about five days and then off to Khao Lak to work with the Tsunami Volunteer Centre.
The Beach was beautiful and we got one full day of wonderful sun. Nikki got pretty burnt and Elyse is just as tanned as our Thai friend Palm haha. Unfortunately i didn't get to go in the water much because my mosquito bites got infected and they have been pussy. Ive been taking antibiotics.
I apologize for my negativity and maybe after this next week with volunteering at the Orphanage we will feel rejuvenated and ready to experience some more!
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Week Three - Temple Stay.
So week three! This week we learn about The Buddhist Culture.
It been so interesting. Only midway through and i feel i have learned so much. There is so much to learn in the Buddhist religion.
I just got back from staying in a temple an hour north of Singburi. We slept on Cold cement which at first we thought would be a relief as it would keep us cool at night. But, we quickly learned how uncomfortable it was. They had blankets, a hard pillow and a thin mat for us to lay on. We were a little worried when we got there that we wouldn't be able to eat supper. Monks do not eat after noon so luckily we were able to get a ride into the town that had a Dairy Queen and KFC (the Asians love love LOVE their KFC). We crammed 18 people into a five seater truck. there was about9 of us in the cap (including the driver) and then another 9 in the back .. which stenched like urine. It was worth it ... we didn't want to go to bed with empty stomachs. I am disappointed to say that i had a moolatte at Dairy Queen and a chicken burger at KFC. I never felt quite so fat in my life. Especially knowing that there were monks back home that couldn't eat!
So we arrived back just in time for evening chanting and meditation. It was such a cool experience. We had to wear all white with clothes covering our shoulders and past our knees. The color white represents a few things in the Buddhist culture. It is a color of purity or a yearning for purity where a person is "half human and half monk". It also represents the nuns in a temple who take care of the monks. The Buddhists believe a woman is sensitive and are easily affected by things around them --just like the color white which gets dirty quite quickly. One of the monks taught us to meditate laying down, sitting, standing up and walking. Meditation is a way of purifying the mind. For some it is the ultimate goal of "enlightenment" which very few are able to attain. This is the deepest mind control in meditation and causes a complete separation from the world making you feel a pure happiness and contentment. You are able to reject any impurities in your mind and can have a feeling of utter peace and tranquility.
Nikki had found a kitten in the temple who had hopped in her lap for the entire evening chant and meditation lesson. It also followed us back to the room where it stayed the whole night on our laps. It had a ghost face on its head so we called it Ghost.
Speaking of Ghosts... The temple is a lot different at night. Me and Elyse went to check out some of the surrounding buildings and came to find a crematorium. It looked pretty old but we want to explore a little. Elyse looked inside the oven and found ashes at the bottom.. i wouldn't dare look! We walked to the back of the building where we notices one of the temple's blind dogs was fallowing us. We continued to walk an began to talk about how we were feeling this heaviness.. the dog began to cry and yelp. It was just too creepy for us so we ran back to our room. There is always something creepy about an animals intuition. I trust their senses better than my own.
One of the older monks had told Jolein, our room mate, of stories where he thinks he had encounters with ghosts. Scary!! I am glad we stayed only one night!
I think we all had an average of three hours sleep, except for Palm -- our Thai coordinator, who snored most of the night. The floor was just too hard and our backs ached in the morning. We woke up at 5:30 to collect food with the monks.
This is their source for food as monks are not aloud to prepare or buy any food themselves. The villages around them fully support them.
They had everything from noodles to rice cakes... all sorts of fruit and spicy curries. It is so cool to see a country that supports each other so well. They may not have a lot, but no one is left behind. They are so family oriented and have such great respect for everyone and everything. The monks even found a turtle in the well this morning and let us throw into the lake and make a wish. A turtle is seen as very Chock Dii (Good Luck).
I think i need a shower now! I was so eager to spill what was fresh in my mind that i came right from the temple to here! I don't think people want to smell or look at me at this point haha.
It been so interesting. Only midway through and i feel i have learned so much. There is so much to learn in the Buddhist religion.
I just got back from staying in a temple an hour north of Singburi. We slept on Cold cement which at first we thought would be a relief as it would keep us cool at night. But, we quickly learned how uncomfortable it was. They had blankets, a hard pillow and a thin mat for us to lay on. We were a little worried when we got there that we wouldn't be able to eat supper. Monks do not eat after noon so luckily we were able to get a ride into the town that had a Dairy Queen and KFC (the Asians love love LOVE their KFC). We crammed 18 people into a five seater truck. there was about9 of us in the cap (including the driver) and then another 9 in the back .. which stenched like urine. It was worth it ... we didn't want to go to bed with empty stomachs. I am disappointed to say that i had a moolatte at Dairy Queen and a chicken burger at KFC. I never felt quite so fat in my life. Especially knowing that there were monks back home that couldn't eat!
So we arrived back just in time for evening chanting and meditation. It was such a cool experience. We had to wear all white with clothes covering our shoulders and past our knees. The color white represents a few things in the Buddhist culture. It is a color of purity or a yearning for purity where a person is "half human and half monk". It also represents the nuns in a temple who take care of the monks. The Buddhists believe a woman is sensitive and are easily affected by things around them --just like the color white which gets dirty quite quickly. One of the monks taught us to meditate laying down, sitting, standing up and walking. Meditation is a way of purifying the mind. For some it is the ultimate goal of "enlightenment" which very few are able to attain. This is the deepest mind control in meditation and causes a complete separation from the world making you feel a pure happiness and contentment. You are able to reject any impurities in your mind and can have a feeling of utter peace and tranquility.
Nikki had found a kitten in the temple who had hopped in her lap for the entire evening chant and meditation lesson. It also followed us back to the room where it stayed the whole night on our laps. It had a ghost face on its head so we called it Ghost.
Speaking of Ghosts... The temple is a lot different at night. Me and Elyse went to check out some of the surrounding buildings and came to find a crematorium. It looked pretty old but we want to explore a little. Elyse looked inside the oven and found ashes at the bottom.. i wouldn't dare look! We walked to the back of the building where we notices one of the temple's blind dogs was fallowing us. We continued to walk an began to talk about how we were feeling this heaviness.. the dog began to cry and yelp. It was just too creepy for us so we ran back to our room. There is always something creepy about an animals intuition. I trust their senses better than my own.
One of the older monks had told Jolein, our room mate, of stories where he thinks he had encounters with ghosts. Scary!! I am glad we stayed only one night!
I think we all had an average of three hours sleep, except for Palm -- our Thai coordinator, who snored most of the night. The floor was just too hard and our backs ached in the morning. We woke up at 5:30 to collect food with the monks.
This is their source for food as monks are not aloud to prepare or buy any food themselves. The villages around them fully support them.
They had everything from noodles to rice cakes... all sorts of fruit and spicy curries. It is so cool to see a country that supports each other so well. They may not have a lot, but no one is left behind. They are so family oriented and have such great respect for everyone and everything. The monks even found a turtle in the well this morning and let us throw into the lake and make a wish. A turtle is seen as very Chock Dii (Good Luck).
I think i need a shower now! I was so eager to spill what was fresh in my mind that i came right from the temple to here! I don't think people want to smell or look at me at this point haha.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Teaching English to Thai Police
So this week has pretty much flown by.
We have been Teaching Thai Policeman this week. Elyse, Nikki and I were so nervouse that first day. We were to teach right at the police station.
We originally had planned to teach Kids English but there wasn't any kids as its their summer holidays for another few weeks. So we agreed that Police would be the next option. It was definitly going to be a completely different experience and a challenge for all three of us.
Its not like you can think of a few games to play and a small lesson like you would with kids, with adults you have to come at a totally different approach. We were so scared that we wouldnt be able to teach them and they would all give us blank stares.
When we walked into the station that first day, my hands were shaking, and I was sweating even in an airconditioned room. They had even made an opening ceremony for us with a podium and a speach from a few of the very important directors and the chief of the Station in Singburi. In one of the speaches, they introduced us as educated English teachers that have been working in the Singburi schools. None of us had tought in the schools in Singburi, None of us had ever even tought english at all!
But they made us feel very welcome. We ended up splitting the class into two different groups which gave the police a chance to feel a lot less attimidated to speak english openly. Some were very hesitant to speak at first, but Elyse, Nikki and I were surprised how easily we ourselves became relaxed as they did as well. That first day, we went over basic conversation and tested to see how much english they cops knew. We were taken to lunch with the cheif (which is a huge honour in Thai culture) and he even treated us to a little icecream!
As the days progressed, we felt more and more comfortable with them. They were no longer scary thai cops, but kind faces and fun laughter.
Our hardest challenge was when we would plan what we would teach for that day and come to class and realize that we had no students the same from the previouse lesson the day before. This made it difficult with the levels of understanding. We had a few that had come to every class and they followed the lessons easily as we always seemed to have to review and review so that we could catch everyone up. By the last day, the police officers had brought their wives and children to learn english as well. So we decided to split up the group.. kids from adults. It was great fun but there wasnt a moment that we weren't on our toes.
Speaking of toes... we even managed to teach the police how to sing "Head Shoulders, knees and toes knees and toes" with the actions. They went a long with it and actually enjoyed it! haha It was such a funny thing to see. Its the last thing you would expect them to be doing as grown men in police uniform.
The Director, Chat, took us out as a thank you at the end of the week. He had asked us what kind of music we enjoyed a few days earlier and we told him Rock music without thinking much of it. We drove an hour from Singburi that night to arrive at this beautiful restaurant that played any rock song requested from a little band outside in a garden. He had gone so out of his way to please us. We had a wonderful dinner and the waitresses topped our beer glasses every minute, even if it wasnt even close to being done. Hanging out with the Thai Police made us all feel like we were living the lives of Kings and Queens. Maybe Nikki had felt it more than the rest of us... hahaha. She fully took advantage of the free beer!
Chat went up to the band playing and sang to songs in Thai and dedicated them to us! He spoke so proudly and clearly, "Dis is Fo Miss Alees, Miss Cowie, Miss Nikki, Miss Helan and Mista Adam". We almost felt that it was just too much for us. They were so greatful for only a short week of teaching.
They took us to a connected rock club from the restaurant afterwards and there was a line up outside with a guard at the door checking ID. We worried as the age limit in Thailand for drinking is apparently 20 (even though barely anyone checks anyways). We were escorted passed the line and the gaurd checking ID and was walked right in upstairs to get a great view of the club and the Thai band playing cover bands.
They went so out of their way to make us feel welcomed and thanked. They were so greatful for our volunteer work. I think we all felt a little undeserving of this attention. But that is definitly one thing i have found so different here in Thailand. When they are thankful, or want to show their appreciation, they go so out of their way and sacrifice so much to make you feel happy. They are such generouse and full hearted people. They gave us a lovely picture with a frame of us with the chief and director, Chat. It brings tears to my eyes just thinking of all their kindness this week.
We have been Teaching Thai Policeman this week. Elyse, Nikki and I were so nervouse that first day. We were to teach right at the police station.
We originally had planned to teach Kids English but there wasn't any kids as its their summer holidays for another few weeks. So we agreed that Police would be the next option. It was definitly going to be a completely different experience and a challenge for all three of us.
Its not like you can think of a few games to play and a small lesson like you would with kids, with adults you have to come at a totally different approach. We were so scared that we wouldnt be able to teach them and they would all give us blank stares.
When we walked into the station that first day, my hands were shaking, and I was sweating even in an airconditioned room. They had even made an opening ceremony for us with a podium and a speach from a few of the very important directors and the chief of the Station in Singburi. In one of the speaches, they introduced us as educated English teachers that have been working in the Singburi schools. None of us had tought in the schools in Singburi, None of us had ever even tought english at all!
But they made us feel very welcome. We ended up splitting the class into two different groups which gave the police a chance to feel a lot less attimidated to speak english openly. Some were very hesitant to speak at first, but Elyse, Nikki and I were surprised how easily we ourselves became relaxed as they did as well. That first day, we went over basic conversation and tested to see how much english they cops knew. We were taken to lunch with the cheif (which is a huge honour in Thai culture) and he even treated us to a little icecream!
As the days progressed, we felt more and more comfortable with them. They were no longer scary thai cops, but kind faces and fun laughter.
Our hardest challenge was when we would plan what we would teach for that day and come to class and realize that we had no students the same from the previouse lesson the day before. This made it difficult with the levels of understanding. We had a few that had come to every class and they followed the lessons easily as we always seemed to have to review and review so that we could catch everyone up. By the last day, the police officers had brought their wives and children to learn english as well. So we decided to split up the group.. kids from adults. It was great fun but there wasnt a moment that we weren't on our toes.
Speaking of toes... we even managed to teach the police how to sing "Head Shoulders, knees and toes knees and toes" with the actions. They went a long with it and actually enjoyed it! haha It was such a funny thing to see. Its the last thing you would expect them to be doing as grown men in police uniform.
The Director, Chat, took us out as a thank you at the end of the week. He had asked us what kind of music we enjoyed a few days earlier and we told him Rock music without thinking much of it. We drove an hour from Singburi that night to arrive at this beautiful restaurant that played any rock song requested from a little band outside in a garden. He had gone so out of his way to please us. We had a wonderful dinner and the waitresses topped our beer glasses every minute, even if it wasnt even close to being done. Hanging out with the Thai Police made us all feel like we were living the lives of Kings and Queens. Maybe Nikki had felt it more than the rest of us... hahaha. She fully took advantage of the free beer!
Chat went up to the band playing and sang to songs in Thai and dedicated them to us! He spoke so proudly and clearly, "Dis is Fo Miss Alees, Miss Cowie, Miss Nikki, Miss Helan and Mista Adam". We almost felt that it was just too much for us. They were so greatful for only a short week of teaching.
They took us to a connected rock club from the restaurant afterwards and there was a line up outside with a guard at the door checking ID. We worried as the age limit in Thailand for drinking is apparently 20 (even though barely anyone checks anyways). We were escorted passed the line and the gaurd checking ID and was walked right in upstairs to get a great view of the club and the Thai band playing cover bands.
They went so out of their way to make us feel welcomed and thanked. They were so greatful for our volunteer work. I think we all felt a little undeserving of this attention. But that is definitly one thing i have found so different here in Thailand. When they are thankful, or want to show their appreciation, they go so out of their way and sacrifice so much to make you feel happy. They are such generouse and full hearted people. They gave us a lovely picture with a frame of us with the chief and director, Chat. It brings tears to my eyes just thinking of all their kindness this week.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
First Week with Volunteer Organization
This first week was such a different experience with people back from home.
As much as Nikki and Elyse distract me, and make me even more happy and less alone,
we end up talking about home a lot. It makes me think about everything i have left... my family and friends..wes... my securities... in some ways its a good thing that I am able to talk about home. In other ways its just making me more homesick!
The first week has been great though.
We were taken to Singburi in airconditioned vans. We met a nineteen year old girl named Famke who was from the Netherlands. She was working in Australia all ready for six months and then doing thailand for another couple months. We met a German guy named Dominic who was going to do a temple stay with the monks for 2 months! We have met all sorts of people in our first week. Its nice to have a good group to share the experiences.
Our Accomodation that will become our home for the next four weeks, is very relaxing. We have really enjoyed being away from the big city and in a small village next to little huts and howling dogs... well maybe not enjoying the howling dogs... nikki hates it. We are surrounded with gardens. Our room is small with three bunk beds. Its supposed to fit six people but having four is plenty! Especially us girls who love to spread everything everywhere. We have a leaky sink that smells a little like sewage and geckos crawling all over our walls. We actually have one that has never left us. We called him Joe the gecko. we can tell its him because he has no tail!
The days have been full of events. We were taken into town to shop in the markets and to the pool to cool off in this absolutely boiling weather.
We have learned So much thai in our lessons. Elyse was so proud of her self when she managed to have a pretty full conversation with our cook at the Twin house. We are finding it very useful when bardering in the Tuesday market in the local village.
I must head out for dinner.. we have dinner at 5:00? its a little hard to adjust to ... we are never really hungry at 5:00!
As much as Nikki and Elyse distract me, and make me even more happy and less alone,
we end up talking about home a lot. It makes me think about everything i have left... my family and friends..wes... my securities... in some ways its a good thing that I am able to talk about home. In other ways its just making me more homesick!
The first week has been great though.
We were taken to Singburi in airconditioned vans. We met a nineteen year old girl named Famke who was from the Netherlands. She was working in Australia all ready for six months and then doing thailand for another couple months. We met a German guy named Dominic who was going to do a temple stay with the monks for 2 months! We have met all sorts of people in our first week. Its nice to have a good group to share the experiences.
Our Accomodation that will become our home for the next four weeks, is very relaxing. We have really enjoyed being away from the big city and in a small village next to little huts and howling dogs... well maybe not enjoying the howling dogs... nikki hates it. We are surrounded with gardens. Our room is small with three bunk beds. Its supposed to fit six people but having four is plenty! Especially us girls who love to spread everything everywhere. We have a leaky sink that smells a little like sewage and geckos crawling all over our walls. We actually have one that has never left us. We called him Joe the gecko. we can tell its him because he has no tail!
The days have been full of events. We were taken into town to shop in the markets and to the pool to cool off in this absolutely boiling weather.
We have learned So much thai in our lessons. Elyse was so proud of her self when she managed to have a pretty full conversation with our cook at the Twin house. We are finding it very useful when bardering in the Tuesday market in the local village.
I must head out for dinner.. we have dinner at 5:00? its a little hard to adjust to ... we are never really hungry at 5:00!
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Meeting Nikki and Elyse in Bangkok!
I never would have thought it would have been such a relief coming back to Bangkok.
I wasnt big on the big city of Bangkok... but it has begun to be a second home. I know it. the people just seem easier to talk to.. there isnt always a language barrier.
This time coming into Bangkok was even more exiting. My friends from home were going to come for the remaining two months. Nicole and Elyse came in at about 2 in the morning. Nikki was exhausted. They were bickering with eachother. I dont blame them! They came so prepared. They had even brought me a little something from home from my parents, marni and wes.. I teared up. It was so weird having all these things suddenly reminding me of home. Mom and dad (thankyou by the way ;).. ) baught me candy that i cant get in Thailand... fun dip which i am addicted to haha and a little note. Wes gave me his journal which made me feel so much closer to home. All three of us stayed up talking until we passed out. We woke up only a few hours later and explored Bangkok. I was so surprised they didnt sleep all day! We walked through the Grande palace (my second time) and then fed pigeons (that turned out to be a scam.. i should have known better). They crashed at about 1 and fell asleep all afternoon until about 7. Nikki was feeling really homesick but Elyse seemed pretty excited.
We went onto Khao San Road and had some famous Pad Thai for supper. Afterwards, we got our hair wrapped and shopped alittle.
I wasnt big on the big city of Bangkok... but it has begun to be a second home. I know it. the people just seem easier to talk to.. there isnt always a language barrier.
This time coming into Bangkok was even more exiting. My friends from home were going to come for the remaining two months. Nicole and Elyse came in at about 2 in the morning. Nikki was exhausted. They were bickering with eachother. I dont blame them! They came so prepared. They had even brought me a little something from home from my parents, marni and wes.. I teared up. It was so weird having all these things suddenly reminding me of home. Mom and dad (thankyou by the way ;).. ) baught me candy that i cant get in Thailand... fun dip which i am addicted to haha and a little note. Wes gave me his journal which made me feel so much closer to home. All three of us stayed up talking until we passed out. We woke up only a few hours later and explored Bangkok. I was so surprised they didnt sleep all day! We walked through the Grande palace (my second time) and then fed pigeons (that turned out to be a scam.. i should have known better). They crashed at about 1 and fell asleep all afternoon until about 7. Nikki was feeling really homesick but Elyse seemed pretty excited.
We went onto Khao San Road and had some famous Pad Thai for supper. Afterwards, we got our hair wrapped and shopped alittle.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Cambodia- Siam Reap and Pnohm Pehn
Wow..
I think its been a little too long since my last blog.
Unfortunately i donot have a lot of time to write this.
Cambodia was beautiful
I feel that this country gave me the most culture shock though. As we entered the country in our big air conditioned local bus, i was fixed at looking out the window. I must have just starred out the window for hours as we waited for a ferry that wasnt even a kilometer distance across a little river. There were trucks carrying all sorts of interesting things in the back of them.. Pigs, cows, monkeys... you name it. It was sad seeing the monkeys tied up witha chain on their foot. Maybe they were selling them, I am not too sure.
The people were fantastic. When we arrived at the small hotel down a narrow road in the capital city of Pnohm Pehn, we went out to get milkshakes... Honestly, you end up craving cold fuit shakes ALL the time. There were kids that bombarded us with books in baskets. They must have been no older than 8 and they broke your heart just looking at them. We told them we were from Canada and they were smart! they started talking in French. But being the terrible canadian that i am.. i didnt even understand.
The Heat was almost unbearable. The moment we walked outside of our airconditioned hotel room, we were sweating. I carried a big bottle of water as i ended up getting dehydrated so quickly.
Going to the prison from the Khmer Rouge was extremely emotional. The prison was originally built as a school. But in 1970, the classrooms were turned into torture chambers and prison cells.
Each room on the main floor had a single wirey bed frame with a little metal box and prison chains for the prisoners feet. The people who were taken here was anyone educated or consisting of the middle or upper class. If anyone doesnt know what happened during this period, it was very similar to the Nazi regime. The ideals of the Khmere Rouge were to bring Cambodia to its original existence and to execute a class system where everyone become equal. The cambodians were all to work in farms and they were killed if they disobeyed the laws. It was absolutely discusting what they did to poeple. The regime that lasted five years caused the death of over 2 million cambodians. It was so sad seeing the ways in which they were tortured. It was so inhumane.
It was really hard walking amungst the killing fields where so many were buried.. some even buried alive.
There were mass graves and their bones were stilll scattered on thepaths we walked on. I ran upon a tiny jaw belonging to a child and it was overwhelming. You really do feel helpless. Even now, 50 percent of the population is under 18 as most of the older people that lived through the 70's were exterminated.
We flew to Siam Reap where we saw the amazing ancient ruins. The trees were my favourite part...they grew amungst it the roots like tendrils from an octopus rapping around the crumbled walls.
I even got to see the very spot that angelina ran in the movie Tomb Raider!!
I will remember one night forever when we went for supper at a womans home. There were children everywhere from nearby village homes and after an amazing feast we danced for hours. My hair became soaked with sweat but i continued to dance. The children showed us traditional Cambodian dancing and then we jived all night. Ill never forget their faces, smiles and laughter.
Overall, Cambodia was one of my favourite places. The thing i will remember most are the people. They were so open and friendly.
I think its been a little too long since my last blog.
Unfortunately i donot have a lot of time to write this.
Cambodia was beautiful
I feel that this country gave me the most culture shock though. As we entered the country in our big air conditioned local bus, i was fixed at looking out the window. I must have just starred out the window for hours as we waited for a ferry that wasnt even a kilometer distance across a little river. There were trucks carrying all sorts of interesting things in the back of them.. Pigs, cows, monkeys... you name it. It was sad seeing the monkeys tied up witha chain on their foot. Maybe they were selling them, I am not too sure.
The people were fantastic. When we arrived at the small hotel down a narrow road in the capital city of Pnohm Pehn, we went out to get milkshakes... Honestly, you end up craving cold fuit shakes ALL the time. There were kids that bombarded us with books in baskets. They must have been no older than 8 and they broke your heart just looking at them. We told them we were from Canada and they were smart! they started talking in French. But being the terrible canadian that i am.. i didnt even understand.
The Heat was almost unbearable. The moment we walked outside of our airconditioned hotel room, we were sweating. I carried a big bottle of water as i ended up getting dehydrated so quickly.
Going to the prison from the Khmer Rouge was extremely emotional. The prison was originally built as a school. But in 1970, the classrooms were turned into torture chambers and prison cells.
Each room on the main floor had a single wirey bed frame with a little metal box and prison chains for the prisoners feet. The people who were taken here was anyone educated or consisting of the middle or upper class. If anyone doesnt know what happened during this period, it was very similar to the Nazi regime. The ideals of the Khmere Rouge were to bring Cambodia to its original existence and to execute a class system where everyone become equal. The cambodians were all to work in farms and they were killed if they disobeyed the laws. It was absolutely discusting what they did to poeple. The regime that lasted five years caused the death of over 2 million cambodians. It was so sad seeing the ways in which they were tortured. It was so inhumane.
It was really hard walking amungst the killing fields where so many were buried.. some even buried alive.
There were mass graves and their bones were stilll scattered on thepaths we walked on. I ran upon a tiny jaw belonging to a child and it was overwhelming. You really do feel helpless. Even now, 50 percent of the population is under 18 as most of the older people that lived through the 70's were exterminated.
We flew to Siam Reap where we saw the amazing ancient ruins. The trees were my favourite part...they grew amungst it the roots like tendrils from an octopus rapping around the crumbled walls.
I even got to see the very spot that angelina ran in the movie Tomb Raider!!
I will remember one night forever when we went for supper at a womans home. There were children everywhere from nearby village homes and after an amazing feast we danced for hours. My hair became soaked with sweat but i continued to dance. The children showed us traditional Cambodian dancing and then we jived all night. Ill never forget their faces, smiles and laughter.
Overall, Cambodia was one of my favourite places. The thing i will remember most are the people. They were so open and friendly.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Hoi An, Vietnam
We stayed in Hue for on night before reaching Hoi An and it was refreshing.
We had stayed in Hanoi for two nights and were ready to move on. It was so busy and the people were very overbearing. Hue was a nice change. We took an over night train over .. which i zonked myself out with two gravol.. allowing me to sleep the full 12 hours. When i arrived in Hue, we took a trip with motorbike guides and they took us all sorts of places. My Guides name was Do and he has such a sweet face. We stopped by an old woman with red lipstick and leathered wrinkled skin who would tell our fortune for a dollar. I didnt but a lot of the group did. She was so sweet and spoke pretty good english!
So i have spent the last three days in Hoi An.
Its beautiful.
I rented a motorbike yesterday with my group and we drove around the country side. For about a dollar you get two letres which got us through most of the day. We drove to Marble mountain and of course bought a souvenier. I got alittle candle holder/ insence holder for six bucks which isnt too bad considering the beautiful designs on them.
Later on, i took a ride as the sun was going down. I ended up running into a water buffalo an a quiet street by the river! it took me off gaurd and i was definitly afraid so i booked it the other direction!
I must be quick.. as i have to meet up for supper in an hour. But i suntanned by the beach today and finally got a little color! no burn.. TAN! very exiting for me.. as i barely tan ever.
I rented a bicycle for a dollar and went to the beach and it was great. when it was time to come back, i really ddidnt want to put my pants on as they were really sandy.. so i just put my towel on. Two times the towel flew off and all the 13 year old vietnamese boys yelled and whistled out when i got off with just my little bottom bathing suite. the woman gauked and the bikes passing by turned their heads haha. stupid me.
We had stayed in Hanoi for two nights and were ready to move on. It was so busy and the people were very overbearing. Hue was a nice change. We took an over night train over .. which i zonked myself out with two gravol.. allowing me to sleep the full 12 hours. When i arrived in Hue, we took a trip with motorbike guides and they took us all sorts of places. My Guides name was Do and he has such a sweet face. We stopped by an old woman with red lipstick and leathered wrinkled skin who would tell our fortune for a dollar. I didnt but a lot of the group did. She was so sweet and spoke pretty good english!
So i have spent the last three days in Hoi An.
Its beautiful.
I rented a motorbike yesterday with my group and we drove around the country side. For about a dollar you get two letres which got us through most of the day. We drove to Marble mountain and of course bought a souvenier. I got alittle candle holder/ insence holder for six bucks which isnt too bad considering the beautiful designs on them.
Later on, i took a ride as the sun was going down. I ended up running into a water buffalo an a quiet street by the river! it took me off gaurd and i was definitly afraid so i booked it the other direction!
I must be quick.. as i have to meet up for supper in an hour. But i suntanned by the beach today and finally got a little color! no burn.. TAN! very exiting for me.. as i barely tan ever.
I rented a bicycle for a dollar and went to the beach and it was great. when it was time to come back, i really ddidnt want to put my pants on as they were really sandy.. so i just put my towel on. Two times the towel flew off and all the 13 year old vietnamese boys yelled and whistled out when i got off with just my little bottom bathing suite. the woman gauked and the bikes passing by turned their heads haha. stupid me.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Hanoi, Vietnam
So I arrived in Hanoi, Vietnam yesterday and we are staying in a little hotel thats sourounded by markets and alleyways. It is so easy to get lost here.. The group leader even told us that we SHOULD get lost because thats the only way you will really get to know the city. I got lost yesterday with Michelle and Leanne two of my fellow travelers. We wanted to get to the clothe market but it took us about 2 and half hours when it should have taken twenty minutes. But like Simon, our group leader said, we did end up having an adventure!
We started walking and the people just gock at you from every street and corner. If you are lucky they wont speack out and only stare and smile. Their heads most of the time turn and stare as they walk the opposite direction and the rest of the time they shout out things. God only knows what they say... i thought i wanted to know at first what they were saying in Vietnamese, but as i talk to more people from here, I realize i dont. They sometimes say "Oychauyoy!" which means in general translation: Oh my gosh! andother times a group of men will start giggling and laughing some will shout out things in Vietnamese. A couple men tried to grope Michelle on her ass!
I think the biggest thing that sticks out about Vietnam so far are the people and the traffic. The honking of vehicles will forever be engraved in my ears.
We started walking and the people just gock at you from every street and corner. If you are lucky they wont speack out and only stare and smile. Their heads most of the time turn and stare as they walk the opposite direction and the rest of the time they shout out things. God only knows what they say... i thought i wanted to know at first what they were saying in Vietnamese, but as i talk to more people from here, I realize i dont. They sometimes say "Oychauyoy!" which means in general translation: Oh my gosh! andother times a group of men will start giggling and laughing some will shout out things in Vietnamese. A couple men tried to grope Michelle on her ass!
I think the biggest thing that sticks out about Vietnam so far are the people and the traffic. The honking of vehicles will forever be engraved in my ears.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Laos and Border to Vietnam
So Laos has been an amazing adventure.
I have LOVED the people and the serenity and peace of it all.
Our Group went to a disco the other night.. the sign actually wrote "Dosco" which was quite funny. We watched as the Locals danced their traditional moves. It was so interesting to see how much they have been able to perserve their culture. Claire (my room mate) and I went dancing with them and they all welcomed us on the dance floor. Some took pictures with us and touched my hair and giggling.
Even I felt like an oversized woman.. although i am about 5'6. There were quite a few lady boys. We were all so surprised as they looked so beautiful! Surely they werent men! But as soon as the opened their mouths and spoke, we knew the answer--men! Everyone is so small, its very hard to tell. Even in the markets. You cant try the clothes on but you always have to buy a size higher than you normally would at home.
I have grown attatched to these small cheap internet places. I am addicted to checking up on how everyone is doing! But last night we were in a Homestay in a village off theMekong River. The people were wonderful but very very shy. There were so many children who were begging to have their pictures taken--and i gladly took them. They were fascinated with the video camera! they loved that they could hear themselves talk. They would be rolling on the ground with their faces red laughing so hard. The sleep was a different story. Very unco0mfortable. Not like the last homestay in Thailand with Marni. Although i had a mosquito net, I could feel millions of bugs crolling all over my body. They were up my nose buzzing in my ear... then 4 am rolled around and we heard this thumping sound. I was too tired to find out what it was. The roosters were crowing our ears off. So i effecntially rolled out of bed at about 5 30 am. The thudding was the woman making sticky rice... at 4 am! haha its a totally different world.
I crossed the border today. I got a rough start. I was puking for the first couple hours of the trip. The bus had to keep stopping for me to puke out on the side of the road. It was horrific. Luckily, there is a nurse in our group that helped me. Everyone was very nice and willing to help. The twelve hour drive went by fast once i fell asleep and read my book. We crossed the border and it was a whole new culture shock. It was incredible.
We entered into the first Vietnam town, and the drivers are loonatics! I thought Thailand and Laos was bad... we were all TERRIFIED for our lives the entire time. I couldnt believe the way they had no respect for the middle of the road. cars and buses would just drive wherever they pleased. Every driver seemed to just drive 80 km/hour and be within a meter of a bus infront of them coming head on. Our bus driver at one point was pissed off at this van that had cut him off so he spead up drove infront of them and slammed on thebreaks sending all of our group flying forward hitting the seat in front of us.
Laos and Vietnam are polar opposites i have decided. Laos was incredibly laid back. i walked at night alone without a worry in the world. Every where you went was whispers and hushed voices and a lot of the time silence. Everyone walked leasurely down the sidewalk. Vietnam is a totally different ball game. The people are loud and obnoxouis. i just had dinner in a place and our group couldnt barely speak over the loud voices. I am now in an internet cafe and i can barely hear myself think! everyone is screaming and yelling and cackeling. Its insane. The people ARE insane here haha. But maybe its good to pick up some pace.
I have LOVED the people and the serenity and peace of it all.
Our Group went to a disco the other night.. the sign actually wrote "Dosco" which was quite funny. We watched as the Locals danced their traditional moves. It was so interesting to see how much they have been able to perserve their culture. Claire (my room mate) and I went dancing with them and they all welcomed us on the dance floor. Some took pictures with us and touched my hair and giggling.
Even I felt like an oversized woman.. although i am about 5'6. There were quite a few lady boys. We were all so surprised as they looked so beautiful! Surely they werent men! But as soon as the opened their mouths and spoke, we knew the answer--men! Everyone is so small, its very hard to tell. Even in the markets. You cant try the clothes on but you always have to buy a size higher than you normally would at home.
I have grown attatched to these small cheap internet places. I am addicted to checking up on how everyone is doing! But last night we were in a Homestay in a village off theMekong River. The people were wonderful but very very shy. There were so many children who were begging to have their pictures taken--and i gladly took them. They were fascinated with the video camera! they loved that they could hear themselves talk. They would be rolling on the ground with their faces red laughing so hard. The sleep was a different story. Very unco0mfortable. Not like the last homestay in Thailand with Marni. Although i had a mosquito net, I could feel millions of bugs crolling all over my body. They were up my nose buzzing in my ear... then 4 am rolled around and we heard this thumping sound. I was too tired to find out what it was. The roosters were crowing our ears off. So i effecntially rolled out of bed at about 5 30 am. The thudding was the woman making sticky rice... at 4 am! haha its a totally different world.
I crossed the border today. I got a rough start. I was puking for the first couple hours of the trip. The bus had to keep stopping for me to puke out on the side of the road. It was horrific. Luckily, there is a nurse in our group that helped me. Everyone was very nice and willing to help. The twelve hour drive went by fast once i fell asleep and read my book. We crossed the border and it was a whole new culture shock. It was incredible.
We entered into the first Vietnam town, and the drivers are loonatics! I thought Thailand and Laos was bad... we were all TERRIFIED for our lives the entire time. I couldnt believe the way they had no respect for the middle of the road. cars and buses would just drive wherever they pleased. Every driver seemed to just drive 80 km/hour and be within a meter of a bus infront of them coming head on. Our bus driver at one point was pissed off at this van that had cut him off so he spead up drove infront of them and slammed on thebreaks sending all of our group flying forward hitting the seat in front of us.
Laos and Vietnam are polar opposites i have decided. Laos was incredibly laid back. i walked at night alone without a worry in the world. Every where you went was whispers and hushed voices and a lot of the time silence. Everyone walked leasurely down the sidewalk. Vietnam is a totally different ball game. The people are loud and obnoxouis. i just had dinner in a place and our group couldnt barely speak over the loud voices. I am now in an internet cafe and i can barely hear myself think! everyone is screaming and yelling and cackeling. Its insane. The people ARE insane here haha. But maybe its good to pick up some pace.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Laos
Well.. the computers are not up to snap in Laos as they are in Thailand but i shall survive. I have already lost two blogs.. and all pictures i have uploaded on this computer. i have wasted an hour! But Patience is the key.. i must stay patient.. as it won't ever be like Canada and its all in the experience.
So i dont even know where to start! as I dont remember what i have actually posted and what i haven't.. but i guess from the beginning when enterring Laos.
We took a 5 hour bus to the border. for 42 dollars we could cross and the only way to was by a little boat. "immigration" was very interesting as it was jsut a little stall with a only a few workers. We stayed the night in a small town.. it might have even been a village. It was cute non the less and our hotel was nice and basic. Cold showers and a bed. The bathrooms so far have been a shower right next to the toilet with no tub or shower curtain just a small efficient bathroom. So when you have a shower you get the entire bathroom wet haha.
We spent two days floating down the Mekong River. Its absolutely beautiful as you get to see the country side and laotians everyday life. No busy streets or markets, just villages with playful children and leathered skin adults fishing and embroidering.
I got to visit a village and the childrenran up to the boat and squeeled when they saw my hair. They gigled when i shook it in front of them and they touched it with huge curiouse smiles.
they kept looking at the bracelettes that i had bought from the Chiang Mai Village children so i gave them to the kids. I will never forget their faces.
We arrived at our beautiful bangalows. Simon, our group leader had told us that the accomodations were going to be like your own "person discovery channel" and said the bathrooms were shared and rooms very basic. But turns out hes a liar! and the rooms were spectacular.
We have stayed in Luang Prabang for two nights.
It is New years next week for south east asia and their tradition is to throw water on anything anyone and everyone. That means cars, trucks with open backs (where most people travel in the back as its a taxi for most of us tourists) , bicycles and motorbikes and pedestrians. We were soaked yesterday coming home from the waterfalls. Children would be waiting at every corner with a bucket and would throw it in our direction.
I am so glad i managed to catch an internet cafe.. as an hour later it began to hail and rain so hard that a couple girls from our group are now fully soaked!
So i dont even know where to start! as I dont remember what i have actually posted and what i haven't.. but i guess from the beginning when enterring Laos.
We took a 5 hour bus to the border. for 42 dollars we could cross and the only way to was by a little boat. "immigration" was very interesting as it was jsut a little stall with a only a few workers. We stayed the night in a small town.. it might have even been a village. It was cute non the less and our hotel was nice and basic. Cold showers and a bed. The bathrooms so far have been a shower right next to the toilet with no tub or shower curtain just a small efficient bathroom. So when you have a shower you get the entire bathroom wet haha.
We spent two days floating down the Mekong River. Its absolutely beautiful as you get to see the country side and laotians everyday life. No busy streets or markets, just villages with playful children and leathered skin adults fishing and embroidering.
I got to visit a village and the childrenran up to the boat and squeeled when they saw my hair. They gigled when i shook it in front of them and they touched it with huge curiouse smiles.
they kept looking at the bracelettes that i had bought from the Chiang Mai Village children so i gave them to the kids. I will never forget their faces.
We arrived at our beautiful bangalows. Simon, our group leader had told us that the accomodations were going to be like your own "person discovery channel" and said the bathrooms were shared and rooms very basic. But turns out hes a liar! and the rooms were spectacular.
We have stayed in Luang Prabang for two nights.
It is New years next week for south east asia and their tradition is to throw water on anything anyone and everyone. That means cars, trucks with open backs (where most people travel in the back as its a taxi for most of us tourists) , bicycles and motorbikes and pedestrians. We were soaked yesterday coming home from the waterfalls. Children would be waiting at every corner with a bucket and would throw it in our direction.
I am so glad i managed to catch an internet cafe.. as an hour later it began to hail and rain so hard that a couple girls from our group are now fully soaked!
Monday, March 31, 2008
Me, Myself and I in Thailand.
So cried a little when marni left the other day. I feel a little lonely.
It makes me miss everyone a lot ALOT more. But this experience will
be so good for me. I just have to get over this hump of lonelyness. I haven't
been on the computer more this entire trip in these last couple days. I wish
I could see everyong back at home.
The Intrepid Group--who I will be with when traveling to Laos, Cambodia and
Vietnam are nice! There are three Canadians including myself (woo!), two sisters
from England --who just left India, and a couple from Ireland who were traveling
in Australia and New Zealand. Everyone is very nice and easy to hang out with.
I am.. of course.. the youngest of the group. When i was walking down th street with
my room mate, Claire from Toronto, We were making small talk with a Thai guy
and mistook her as my mother! ahh! Horrifying for both of us.
We spent the night walking down Khap Khan Road ( I think thats what its called?)
and its party central. There were drunks everywhere. Unfortunately i didnt get the
chance to take a picture of this one open bar that had a huge sign: 45 baht for beer...
WE DONT CHECK ID!!! You look and see all these toppling over underaged kids.
It was rediculous. There were poeple that were giving people hair raps, dreads and
braides... and there were clothes and shops everywhere. I would have crapped myself
if i was along.. it was definitly a dangerous street. The Taxi drivers would yell PING PONG?
meaning they would take us to all the stripping clubs in town. Very funny.
We took an overnight train to Chiang Mai and we are crossing to border to Laos tomorw.
I am taking the day off to relax , read and write. Its a cloudy day.. but PERFECT for me.
The heat is just right... and no chance of burning!
It makes me miss everyone a lot ALOT more. But this experience will
be so good for me. I just have to get over this hump of lonelyness. I haven't
been on the computer more this entire trip in these last couple days. I wish
I could see everyong back at home.
The Intrepid Group--who I will be with when traveling to Laos, Cambodia and
Vietnam are nice! There are three Canadians including myself (woo!), two sisters
from England --who just left India, and a couple from Ireland who were traveling
in Australia and New Zealand. Everyone is very nice and easy to hang out with.
I am.. of course.. the youngest of the group. When i was walking down th street with
my room mate, Claire from Toronto, We were making small talk with a Thai guy
and mistook her as my mother! ahh! Horrifying for both of us.
We spent the night walking down Khap Khan Road ( I think thats what its called?)
and its party central. There were drunks everywhere. Unfortunately i didnt get the
chance to take a picture of this one open bar that had a huge sign: 45 baht for beer...
WE DONT CHECK ID!!! You look and see all these toppling over underaged kids.
It was rediculous. There were poeple that were giving people hair raps, dreads and
braides... and there were clothes and shops everywhere. I would have crapped myself
if i was along.. it was definitly a dangerous street. The Taxi drivers would yell PING PONG?
meaning they would take us to all the stripping clubs in town. Very funny.
We took an overnight train to Chiang Mai and we are crossing to border to Laos tomorw.
I am taking the day off to relax , read and write. Its a cloudy day.. but PERFECT for me.
The heat is just right... and no chance of burning!
Friday, March 28, 2008
Beaches!
Wow.. The beaches were definitly worth the almost 20 hour travel there. I may be exaggerating a little. it was probably like 15 hours. But it was definitly brutal. The bus wasnt as bad as i thought it would be. There was air conditioning and free snacks. When we arrived, we were so overwhelmed.
The resort was huge. It was about 120 dollars canadian a night.. but we luckily had a cheaper rate. There were lots of families so when mar and I arrived we felt a little out of place. It was such a change from sleeping in a village hut or fan room. The water was crystal clear and the breeze was just right. Marni was determined to get a tan. I was just excited to jump in the pool. i
wsas so hot from the travel. We bought a few drinks that night that costed about 4 dollars canadian.. about what you would pay in canada. This shocked us. But because we were at a resort everything was double.. if not more. The breakfast was fantasticly huge though! There was everything from omelettes, pancakes, toast to lasagna, stir fry, chicken wings... (ya.. for breakfast.. very odd). Thai people just eat and breath rice and noodles. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. noodles and rice. But they somehow taste different everywhere we go. Not one restaurant has dissapointed us.
We took a speed boat over to a small island with a population of 500.. called Ko Mak. The hotel owner was the biggest sweetheart. For 100 baht, (3 dollars) we were able to rent a motor bike scooter thing. It was so much fun. We were scared at first as it began to rain but it was warm and we were restless of lying down and suntanning. We squeeled like little girls--the people giggling at us.
The next day we relaxed in the morning and took a boat back to Ko Chang to our rich resort where the fat and rich lay. All the people on the beach were wearing way too skimpy of bathing suites. One lady had a little tube bikini and had her huge belly hanging over. You could barely see her bottoms because her belly hid it.
We enjoyed the relaxing day and then woke up early the nect day to catch the fairy.
I seem to get a lot of attention to my red hair.. i mean i expected it but... on the fairy, Mar and i felt like celebrities. The woman infront of us brought her children over to take a picture with us... each child at a time, then the mom.. and all these other ladies and children came to us taking pictures with them. They kept pointing and staring. I hid myself with sunglasses haha! One lady said you bootafool! Maybe they thought we were drew berrymore and angelina jolie? that would be nice!
Mar and i finally arrived in Bangkok after a long long bus ride and we went to the night market.
Bangkok is a totally different world in the dark. There were stripper bars all the way dwon the streets. and there were men with brochures trying to pull mar and i in.. it was rediculous.
Well i must go. I have arrived at my new hotel... and have said goodbye to marni and a new chapter
The resort was huge. It was about 120 dollars canadian a night.. but we luckily had a cheaper rate. There were lots of families so when mar and I arrived we felt a little out of place. It was such a change from sleeping in a village hut or fan room. The water was crystal clear and the breeze was just right. Marni was determined to get a tan. I was just excited to jump in the pool. i
wsas so hot from the travel. We bought a few drinks that night that costed about 4 dollars canadian.. about what you would pay in canada. This shocked us. But because we were at a resort everything was double.. if not more. The breakfast was fantasticly huge though! There was everything from omelettes, pancakes, toast to lasagna, stir fry, chicken wings... (ya.. for breakfast.. very odd). Thai people just eat and breath rice and noodles. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. noodles and rice. But they somehow taste different everywhere we go. Not one restaurant has dissapointed us.
We took a speed boat over to a small island with a population of 500.. called Ko Mak. The hotel owner was the biggest sweetheart. For 100 baht, (3 dollars) we were able to rent a motor bike scooter thing. It was so much fun. We were scared at first as it began to rain but it was warm and we were restless of lying down and suntanning. We squeeled like little girls--the people giggling at us.
The next day we relaxed in the morning and took a boat back to Ko Chang to our rich resort where the fat and rich lay. All the people on the beach were wearing way too skimpy of bathing suites. One lady had a little tube bikini and had her huge belly hanging over. You could barely see her bottoms because her belly hid it.
We enjoyed the relaxing day and then woke up early the nect day to catch the fairy.
I seem to get a lot of attention to my red hair.. i mean i expected it but... on the fairy, Mar and i felt like celebrities. The woman infront of us brought her children over to take a picture with us... each child at a time, then the mom.. and all these other ladies and children came to us taking pictures with them. They kept pointing and staring. I hid myself with sunglasses haha! One lady said you bootafool! Maybe they thought we were drew berrymore and angelina jolie? that would be nice!
Mar and i finally arrived in Bangkok after a long long bus ride and we went to the night market.
Bangkok is a totally different world in the dark. There were stripper bars all the way dwon the streets. and there were men with brochures trying to pull mar and i in.. it was rediculous.
Well i must go. I have arrived at my new hotel... and have said goodbye to marni and a new chapter
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Chiang Mai
We took a sleeper train to Chiang Mai. It wasnt exactly what we had expected. They were just a bunk bed with curtains. We managed okay.. as it was just for a sleep. We made the mistake in the morning however to have their breakfast. It was cold and old.. made probably early the day before. Its okay though, both mar and i aren't whiners and we ate it with no fuss. When we arrived, the train station was full of bussling people. There was about 30 people yelling at us, "Tuk tuk? Taxi? Come Come!".. we were so groggy and overwhelmed. A lady with a grin stretching from one ear to the other, squinty eyes and pushy laugh, grabbed us and asked where we are going. She told us that she will take us to the hotel.. we didnt bother fighting.
When we arrived at the hotel, we collapsed on the hotel room beds. Mar and i went outside to the very nice pool and suntanned beside the pool. We drank extremely strong Pina Coladas... there was more rum than coconut and we definitly couldnt finish them, especially in the heat. Our heads throbbed after the drink and we had to drink lots of water.
We went out that night to the Night Bazaar and it was amazing. Streets and Streets of Market.. a shoppers paradise. Marni and I bought a few things: gifts and sandals for me (as my other pair broke) and we ended up getting supper at...ehem subway haha. We decided to be terrible tourists and not eat thai that night.
We woke up on the Saturday and was driven an hour outside of Chiang Mai. We arrived at a village and the children swarmed the car. There must of been 10 to 15 children around each of us yelling, "10 baht hello hello! 10 baht, please".. It was heart breaking when you looked into their droopy sad eyes looking up at us. You couldnt help but buy at least one bracelette.
We trekked for three hours in the beautiful hills with farm land and bamboo forests.
Our tour guide would point at chicken and say, "Kentucky Fried Chicken" haha. The villagers were so resourceful. It felt like we went back into time about a hundred years. We barely had enough time to sit and rest at the village we were to sleep at when the children grabbed us to go swimming at a small water hole.
They made us tree crowns and these other crafty things using only twigs flowers and leaves. We watched them play in the water hole since we forgot our bathing suites (and would be inappropriate anyways) and we washed our dirty feet from our trek.
That night our tour guide spent hours showing us magic tricks and watched the vollagers dance around the fire.
We thought we were going to fall asleep quickly, but we didnt. Mar and I were very restless on the bamboo beds. ALl we heard that night were the roosters crowing. I think we have grown a new hatred towards roosters.
We woke up to hear the woman sitting outside of our sleeping hut... waiting for us to come out and buy their jewelery and woven scarves and blankets.
Mar and i again felt a guilt to buy items as they sat there.. even when we were eating breakfast.
Marni was worse.. she is really bad with having some restraint. Thinking she needed to buy from all of them haha.
We treked for about another half an hour and got to ride an elephant. The ride was slow but soothing as it rocked back and forth. They are amazing creatures.
We took a bamboo raft down the river and felt totally with nature. We were so at ease and heard nothing but the soft breeze and birds in the trees. The dynamic changed once we got lodged into a rock. Marni ended up jumping out to help but tripped and fell! haha
We had a lazy day that night and even ordered Room service so we didnt need to leave our room. The only english channel is "Zone Reality" which is like a TLC. For four hours straight we watched stories of animals saving humans. We started to get extremely annoyed by the same stupid cats saving people in fires. haha. But it was nice to relax none the less.
We are to jump on asleeper train once again to Bangkok. We arent looking forward to the train food.. ugh.
good bye for now!
When we arrived at the hotel, we collapsed on the hotel room beds. Mar and i went outside to the very nice pool and suntanned beside the pool. We drank extremely strong Pina Coladas... there was more rum than coconut and we definitly couldnt finish them, especially in the heat. Our heads throbbed after the drink and we had to drink lots of water.
We went out that night to the Night Bazaar and it was amazing. Streets and Streets of Market.. a shoppers paradise. Marni and I bought a few things: gifts and sandals for me (as my other pair broke) and we ended up getting supper at...ehem subway haha. We decided to be terrible tourists and not eat thai that night.
We woke up on the Saturday and was driven an hour outside of Chiang Mai. We arrived at a village and the children swarmed the car. There must of been 10 to 15 children around each of us yelling, "10 baht hello hello! 10 baht, please".. It was heart breaking when you looked into their droopy sad eyes looking up at us. You couldnt help but buy at least one bracelette.
We trekked for three hours in the beautiful hills with farm land and bamboo forests.
Our tour guide would point at chicken and say, "Kentucky Fried Chicken" haha. The villagers were so resourceful. It felt like we went back into time about a hundred years. We barely had enough time to sit and rest at the village we were to sleep at when the children grabbed us to go swimming at a small water hole.
They made us tree crowns and these other crafty things using only twigs flowers and leaves. We watched them play in the water hole since we forgot our bathing suites (and would be inappropriate anyways) and we washed our dirty feet from our trek.
That night our tour guide spent hours showing us magic tricks and watched the vollagers dance around the fire.
We thought we were going to fall asleep quickly, but we didnt. Mar and I were very restless on the bamboo beds. ALl we heard that night were the roosters crowing. I think we have grown a new hatred towards roosters.
We woke up to hear the woman sitting outside of our sleeping hut... waiting for us to come out and buy their jewelery and woven scarves and blankets.
Mar and i again felt a guilt to buy items as they sat there.. even when we were eating breakfast.
Marni was worse.. she is really bad with having some restraint. Thinking she needed to buy from all of them haha.
We treked for about another half an hour and got to ride an elephant. The ride was slow but soothing as it rocked back and forth. They are amazing creatures.
We took a bamboo raft down the river and felt totally with nature. We were so at ease and heard nothing but the soft breeze and birds in the trees. The dynamic changed once we got lodged into a rock. Marni ended up jumping out to help but tripped and fell! haha
We had a lazy day that night and even ordered Room service so we didnt need to leave our room. The only english channel is "Zone Reality" which is like a TLC. For four hours straight we watched stories of animals saving humans. We started to get extremely annoyed by the same stupid cats saving people in fires. haha. But it was nice to relax none the less.
We are to jump on asleeper train once again to Bangkok. We arent looking forward to the train food.. ugh.
good bye for now!
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Ayuthaya
So Mar and I dont seem to be able to sleep in after 7 am. It could be the heat... we just seem to be waking when the sun rises and begin to feel sleepy once the sun goes down. THere was a beautiful sunset last night that lit the whole sky red.
We were able to relax the whole morning until 1:30..So we sunbathed and swam in the pool all morning. Marni got a nice tan---on one side of her body (one half is white one brown haha) and i lathered myself with suntan lotion! I am very proud of myself as i havent burned once in this strong heat!We had a boat pick us up as the hotel was on an island and we had a two hour bus (absolutely brutal) ride to Ayuthaya. oh my gosh.. That is when the heat really hit me. My head was throbbing and i was super quizzy. It was a very cramped bus with an almost broken air conditioner. It was atleast 40 degrees yesterday so we were glued to our seats with sweat by the end of two hours. I had a thudding headache and was just glad we had nothing planned the rest of the day but arrive at the hotel. Luckily our hotel had air conditioning! it was such a luxery to have that after being in hotels with no air breeze or had only a fan.
We had a free tuk tuk ride through the town and were able to see the ruins (ancient cities that built amazing temples and buddhas but was destroyed in the early 1600's). As we watched the sun set we walked amungst the crumbled city... It was all SO beautiful. The loved the roots winding out of the ground from the huge trees.
We watched elephants walk by thestreets of Ayuthaya in vibrant colors mostly orange and yello: the monarchs favourite colour and thier religous color, the color of the monks.
We have seen a few monks walking through town or in the ruins and everytime we follow them acting like excited tourists. We will soon gain enough guts to ask to take a picture with them!
Well we have the entire day to explore Ayuthaya today and have a sleeper train (12 hours) to Chiang Mai.
We were able to relax the whole morning until 1:30..So we sunbathed and swam in the pool all morning. Marni got a nice tan---on one side of her body (one half is white one brown haha) and i lathered myself with suntan lotion! I am very proud of myself as i havent burned once in this strong heat!We had a boat pick us up as the hotel was on an island and we had a two hour bus (absolutely brutal) ride to Ayuthaya. oh my gosh.. That is when the heat really hit me. My head was throbbing and i was super quizzy. It was a very cramped bus with an almost broken air conditioner. It was atleast 40 degrees yesterday so we were glued to our seats with sweat by the end of two hours. I had a thudding headache and was just glad we had nothing planned the rest of the day but arrive at the hotel. Luckily our hotel had air conditioning! it was such a luxery to have that after being in hotels with no air breeze or had only a fan.
We had a free tuk tuk ride through the town and were able to see the ruins (ancient cities that built amazing temples and buddhas but was destroyed in the early 1600's). As we watched the sun set we walked amungst the crumbled city... It was all SO beautiful. The loved the roots winding out of the ground from the huge trees.
We watched elephants walk by thestreets of Ayuthaya in vibrant colors mostly orange and yello: the monarchs favourite colour and thier religous color, the color of the monks.
We have seen a few monks walking through town or in the ruins and everytime we follow them acting like excited tourists. We will soon gain enough guts to ask to take a picture with them!
Well we have the entire day to explore Ayuthaya today and have a sleeper train (12 hours) to Chiang Mai.
Erawan Waterfalls
We awoke from our very hot and sticky night in the cabin, which had no fan/electericity, and said goodbye after breakfast. We took a drive to the Erawan Waterfalls. Mar and I were so excited when first arriving. We thought it would be a nice relaxcing swim with the waterfalls... we were wrong! it was a hike up 7 waterfalls in 38 degree weather with crazy thick humidity. I ended up loosing marni at the third waterfall and we didnt find eachother for an hour.. By the 6th waterfall, we had found eachother dripping with sweat, faces red, and huge headaches. We jumped in the crystal clear water. Everywhere around us were huge fish--grazing against our legs and little fish nibbling at our toes haha. It was a blast! We squeeled at first...The locals even made fun of me as I got in the water with a loud screach and they tried to imitate it!
We took a long tail boat to our next hotel and laid low the rest of the day! It was one exhausting day...The Hotel is beautiful. We have little bungalows with fans.
We took a long tail boat to our next hotel and laid low the rest of the day! It was one exhausting day...The Hotel is beautiful. We have little bungalows with fans.
Wow.. I have no idea to even begin my three days.
We left bangkok on a shuttle bus and drove to the Salt fields.
In Thailand, They seperate the ocean watter in these 'patties'
and let the water evaporate and what is left is salt.
Mar lost her balance and ended up getting one of her foot stuck in the thick clay like mud. haha
I laughed so hard. It took about 15 minutes for it to come off.
We went to the floating market and it was absolutley amazing. This is their ancient tradition of selling goods on the river with long tail boats. The colors are overwhelming. We bought some mango and the flavour is fantastic! We were able to rent a boat and float right along the markets.
We drove for another hour till we arrived at our hotel for the night-- a floating cabin!
The Hotel is owned by island monks and a few locals. The rooms are right on the River Kwai away from the city noise. It was so hot that day--- mar and i were dripping sweat. We took a trek up to the monk village on the island and baught a few CHEAP items. for 30 baht, we got a huge pack of monk cigs. There were two elephants roaming the village and we were able to feed them and pet them. That was absolutely incredible.. just walking amungst elephants.
We did not hesitate to jump in the river as soon as we got back. Once we were in, we couldnt get enough of it. We must have stayed in the river for a couple hours before supper was ready. After supper, we were presented a dance celebrating and watched the locals dance in vibrant costumes. This is by far mar and i's favourite adventure!
We left bangkok on a shuttle bus and drove to the Salt fields.
In Thailand, They seperate the ocean watter in these 'patties'
and let the water evaporate and what is left is salt.
Mar lost her balance and ended up getting one of her foot stuck in the thick clay like mud. haha
I laughed so hard. It took about 15 minutes for it to come off.
We went to the floating market and it was absolutley amazing. This is their ancient tradition of selling goods on the river with long tail boats. The colors are overwhelming. We bought some mango and the flavour is fantastic! We were able to rent a boat and float right along the markets.
We drove for another hour till we arrived at our hotel for the night-- a floating cabin!
The Hotel is owned by island monks and a few locals. The rooms are right on the River Kwai away from the city noise. It was so hot that day--- mar and i were dripping sweat. We took a trek up to the monk village on the island and baught a few CHEAP items. for 30 baht, we got a huge pack of monk cigs. There were two elephants roaming the village and we were able to feed them and pet them. That was absolutely incredible.. just walking amungst elephants.
We did not hesitate to jump in the river as soon as we got back. Once we were in, we couldnt get enough of it. We must have stayed in the river for a couple hours before supper was ready. After supper, we were presented a dance celebrating and watched the locals dance in vibrant costumes. This is by far mar and i's favourite adventure!
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Day two in Bangkok
Mar and I are surprised that we woke so early today.
The Jet lag doesn't seem to be affecting us at all! which
is good. We went to bed at 2 am last night and both naturally
woke up at 8am. We had barely gotten sleep the night before
on the 14 hour flight so it was very odd.
The breakfast was amazing. the food here could possibly make
me gain 25 pounds haha.
Its very healthy food though, noodles fruit and veggies.
We went to the market today. Marni got a few items. A cool scarf
shirt and jewelery. The market was huge, I dont think we were
even able to get through half of it.
We saw a man in the middle of one of the market streets (where there
was a gutter) and he was face down on the ground with tattered
clothes. When i first glanced I thought he had fallen but
then we saw he had no legs and he was slowly draggin himself on the
filthy floor. Mar and I took a second to keep walking. It caught us off gaurd.
We actually stopped. It broke our hearts.
Well on a happier note, we just got out of messages and we are goin
to bed!
The Jet lag doesn't seem to be affecting us at all! which
is good. We went to bed at 2 am last night and both naturally
woke up at 8am. We had barely gotten sleep the night before
on the 14 hour flight so it was very odd.
The breakfast was amazing. the food here could possibly make
me gain 25 pounds haha.
Its very healthy food though, noodles fruit and veggies.
We went to the market today. Marni got a few items. A cool scarf
shirt and jewelery. The market was huge, I dont think we were
even able to get through half of it.
We saw a man in the middle of one of the market streets (where there
was a gutter) and he was face down on the ground with tattered
clothes. When i first glanced I thought he had fallen but
then we saw he had no legs and he was slowly draggin himself on the
filthy floor. Mar and I took a second to keep walking. It caught us off gaurd.
We actually stopped. It broke our hearts.
Well on a happier note, we just got out of messages and we are goin
to bed!
Saturday, March 15, 2008
I have ARRIVED!
Wahoo!
I have finally arrived. I can't believe how long the flights have been. I was so restless by the end. But the main thing is that i made it. Im in the future by 11 hours.
There is so much to tell in the short two day i have left Calgary.
I had a 14 hour flight from Vancouver to Hong Kong and i just popped p[ills like crazy --gravol mostly.
When Marni and I arrived in Hong Kong, It was our first cultural shock. More so the poeple than anything else. Their fashion style is of course a lot more developed than ours and so it took a minute to understand some of the clothing. The Chinese seem to be very into the "baby-ish" stuff... such as Hello Kitty..Lilo and Stitch --its interesting.
There was such a difference between Thai Airways and Air Canada. The Stuarts' and Stuartess' were so miserable and flustered on Air Canada. The food wasn't too good and the turbelence was extremely scary.. at one point we had to hold our drinks up as they were spilling every where!
Thai Airways had great food and the Stuartesses were so friendly!
I met a wonderful woman on the flight sitting next to me and she was so helpful. I was so tired from the previouse 14 hour flight, so i was asleep for the majority of the flight. She had saved me a cloth and a dinner trey. She was from Bangkok but spoke very good english.
When we arrived in Thailand, I couldn't believe the heat! its 38 degrees here... unbelievable.
The guy that picked us up from the airport didnt speak any english and drove with no signals or shoulder checking i was gripping the edge of my seat.. as we didnt even had seat belts! haha.
The Hotel is very cute. and it costed 100 baht (2 dollars) to be on here an hour.
Well its 1:30 am here.. and because of jet lag i am wide awake. I will say goodbye for now and hopefully i can get some sleep!:)
I have finally arrived. I can't believe how long the flights have been. I was so restless by the end. But the main thing is that i made it. Im in the future by 11 hours.
There is so much to tell in the short two day i have left Calgary.
I had a 14 hour flight from Vancouver to Hong Kong and i just popped p[ills like crazy --gravol mostly.
When Marni and I arrived in Hong Kong, It was our first cultural shock. More so the poeple than anything else. Their fashion style is of course a lot more developed than ours and so it took a minute to understand some of the clothing. The Chinese seem to be very into the "baby-ish" stuff... such as Hello Kitty..Lilo and Stitch --its interesting.
There was such a difference between Thai Airways and Air Canada. The Stuarts' and Stuartess' were so miserable and flustered on Air Canada. The food wasn't too good and the turbelence was extremely scary.. at one point we had to hold our drinks up as they were spilling every where!
Thai Airways had great food and the Stuartesses were so friendly!
I met a wonderful woman on the flight sitting next to me and she was so helpful. I was so tired from the previouse 14 hour flight, so i was asleep for the majority of the flight. She had saved me a cloth and a dinner trey. She was from Bangkok but spoke very good english.
When we arrived in Thailand, I couldn't believe the heat! its 38 degrees here... unbelievable.
The guy that picked us up from the airport didnt speak any english and drove with no signals or shoulder checking i was gripping the edge of my seat.. as we didnt even had seat belts! haha.
The Hotel is very cute. and it costed 100 baht (2 dollars) to be on here an hour.
Well its 1:30 am here.. and because of jet lag i am wide awake. I will say goodbye for now and hopefully i can get some sleep!:)
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Four Days Left
Wow.. It almost seems surreal. I have been planning this trip
since June and it's finally happening. I honestly can't believe
I am leaving in four whole days.
I don't feel as ready as I probably should with my visa mishap.
I misunderstood back in September when i was looking into
a Thai Visa--Thinking i would be given the 30 days and be able
to sort out an extension when I get there. But I was wrong,
I must now get my mother to Fly all the way to Vancouver (The
closest Thai Embassy) to get an extension Visa. Ahh!
I said goodbye to Wes yesterday and it was one of the hardest things
I have ever had to do. I know its only four months, and there are
so many other people out there that don't see their boyfriend or girlfriend
in years, but I don't think i have ever cried that hard in my life. Going
from a relationship of seeing each other at least every second day to
a four month gap, is tough. It was a lot harder than i thought it was
going to be. But this is only the second day and I am sure I will get
used to the fact that Wes isn't always there.
Well I guess i should start thinking about packing. That would
probably be the next best thing to do right about now. I don't even
know how to begin to pack. I have to keep in mind to pack as light
as possible.
This i guess concludes my first blog entry!
..until next time
since June and it's finally happening. I honestly can't believe
I am leaving in four whole days.
I don't feel as ready as I probably should with my visa mishap.
I misunderstood back in September when i was looking into
a Thai Visa--Thinking i would be given the 30 days and be able
to sort out an extension when I get there. But I was wrong,
I must now get my mother to Fly all the way to Vancouver (The
closest Thai Embassy) to get an extension Visa. Ahh!
I said goodbye to Wes yesterday and it was one of the hardest things
I have ever had to do. I know its only four months, and there are
so many other people out there that don't see their boyfriend or girlfriend
in years, but I don't think i have ever cried that hard in my life. Going
from a relationship of seeing each other at least every second day to
a four month gap, is tough. It was a lot harder than i thought it was
going to be. But this is only the second day and I am sure I will get
used to the fact that Wes isn't always there.
Well I guess i should start thinking about packing. That would
probably be the next best thing to do right about now. I don't even
know how to begin to pack. I have to keep in mind to pack as light
as possible.
This i guess concludes my first blog entry!
..until next time
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