Reena and Cheena

So, as of tomorrow we will travel back to Bangkok and our little loop of SE Asia will be finished. Various emails have been sent out but here's a little summary of what we've been up to for those that weren't paying attention, mostly in chronological order and with place names conveniently highlighted for ease of viewing. Don't say we aren't constantly thinking of your needs. Thailand * In Chiang Mai Rachael F and Jen went to Elephant School for 3 days where they learned to control (barely) and care for elephants - they even have the Mahout suit to validate their qualification * Rachael B went to Cookery class and can now whip up a variety of authentic Thai cuisine - she will be our chef for the foreseeable future when we get back * ... read more

Hi there, Having a "wanna be in air conditioning" day, so will spend most of the day emailing. Arrived in the nothern capital of Chiang Mai after 7 hours on a public bus, sans le air conditioning. However, it did only cost 2 pounds a piece so you can't really complain. Managed to make our way into town and find a room, and then headed for the Irish pub for a POTATO!! Have been hankering after this carb lovers favourite for some time now and couldn't pass up the opportunity. First stop after Bangkok, was a place called Ayuthaya, one of the many ancient capitals of the country. Stayed at great hostel called Tony's Place, where the staff are really friendly. Decided to go on a night tour of all the local Wats, run by the ... read more

I know, I know: We've left. And we go on about how great it is all the time. But we thought we'd share with you a little of why we're so in love...... read more

OK, lots to update here so will try and be brief - highlights only! Left Wellington with a hangover so the 3 hour ferry ride across to the south island wasn't great for me actually. Didn't see much of Nelson as I was sleeping but according to other people on my bus it was very nice. We passed through a town called Greymouth which has been hit a couple of days before by a hurricane - it was all over the news but actaully there was very little damage to be seen. The roof of a local blacksmiths had been completely ripped off but the buildings around it were totally untouched. Bet he was pleased. In fact, it turns out that despite the fuss that was being made in the media only one person was hurt ... read more

Apologies for the delay in updating - have been on the move for a while now and am getting behind. May have to do this in stages but here's the latest: Taupo - River Valley Because the weather was not so good on my third day in Taupo the walk I was supposed to go on was canceled and I had to hang around until the following day. Not such a bad thing - I caught up on some laundry and sleeping which were both sorely needed. The Tongariro Crossing is one of the country's 5 Great Walks, and the only one in the North Island; it came highly recommended, hence the decision to stay an extra two days rather than head off straight away. It is in the Tongariro National Park, about 2 hours drive ... read more