 Rebecca Ford - drofykceb | All Comments |
Comments | |
| 19th November 2009 trisela | Medical Travel Insurance - From: Travel Insurance Ups & Downs Thank you for such a useful post .I really appreciate your effort and encourage others to view this post Medical Travel Insurance |
| 7th November 2009 Darlene Pendell | Ah Paris - From: Ah, That Matisse Hi Becky, I am taking a "senior" class at UT called the evolution of Modern Art. Several weeks ago the lecture was about Fauvism in France with Matisse, Rodin and Derain. While sitting in class I decided to repair our bedroom with the color of Matisse. I hope the Renior exhibit is still in Paris. When we were there in the summer Bill and I went to see it. Wonderful. Enjoy the city of lights. My favorite city. Darlene |
| 7th November 2009 leokasari12 | - From: Ah, That Matisse Hello Rebbeca, Lovely pictures you have posted. The Orangerie was a delight that I was almost disappointed in. After paying the 12 euro entry fee and gazing on the water lillies for about 15 minutes I thought well that was nice but really a rip off for a one trick pony. As I was heading toward the exit I saw the small sign that lead to the basement and seeking a restroom went down stairs. A lucky event spured by a full bladder. The collection was throughly enjoyable and I almost missed it. |
| 6th November 2009 Neomi | - From: Paris Revisited I miss you guys! This was so fun to read. Isn't running in Paris is the best - you're distracted from your misery by all the beauty and history around you. |
| 6th August 2009 anonymous | - From: Hong Kong Blowout On your next trip to South East Asia, i would suggest that you start with Singapore and Thailand. I enjoy reading your blog and hope to see you back. |
| 6th August 2009 anonymous | Nice beach! - From: Paradise, Or "Survivor"? Is this trip to the private beach a part of the 'Ha Long Bay Rock Long Rock Hard' tour? |
| 13th July 2009 Helen | Farewell - From: Hong Kong Blowout Have a good journey back home. That must have been a tough decision to make but as long as your happy with it that’s the main thing. I will look forward to hearing when you are off on your travels again.. Stay safe. Hx |
| 13th July 2009 Angelica | OMG!!! FUN PARTYING!!! - From: Hong Kong Blowout Wooow! The partying looks so cool. Okay, we could do without the huge waves, but still - the boat, the foods, the masquerade party!?!?!?!?! AWESOME!!! Hey, and that's a pretty shirt....did someone go shopping??? Call me when you're back in the States! |
| 13th July 2009 Angelica | Ooooh....duck - From: Pekingese Fajitas I had that in Foggy Bottom at some Chinese restaurant....I was so excited that I was getting 'peking duck' something I'd always heard about. I agree - too greasy, you treat it like a taco and it's not all that good. I'd rather Lauriol Plaza Fajita tacos. Mmmmm. Enjoyed hearing the review though. |
| 12th July 2009 Mom | What a Way To Go!! - From: Hong Kong Blowout Sounds like you had a blast in Hong Kong. What an exciting send-off. It is great to have such good friends spread out around the globe. Hope you can return the favor for Travis one day. Can't wait to see all of your pictures. See you Monday. Love Mom |
| 8th July 2009 kly | wow, what an adventure! - From: Fourth of July Junk Hi Rebecca, thanks for sharing your journey with us here! The advice you give is definitely helpful for peeps like me who hope to travel through Southeast Asia as well. Sorry to hear you got sick, but I am glad you are getting along better now. I sure hope that you will still continue on without losing site of what you intended on for your 5 month journey. I will sure to be coming back to read. Oh yes, and how is your budget coming? Is $30/day good to get you through the day? |
| 8th July 2009 amber | - From: To Market, To Market Haven't been able to identify the red and white flower at the top- the one that looks like velcro or maybe corn on the cob?...But I did find out that the one you labeled "flowers?" is a pitcher plant, a carnivorous plant (eats insects, not you), but only after asking a friend who's something of an expert in that field. Anyhow, it looks nice and healthy, and so do you. You must be feeling better! |
| 7th July 2009 Angelica | Soooo....was it the - From: To Market, To Market raging case of unknown/exotic travller's stomach virus or facing ending your journey that made you un-afraid of birds???? I'm very impressed. |
| 7th July 2009 Angelica | Those green things look like.. - From: To Market, To Market .....they look like jalapenos or green beans! What are they? Wannabe asparagus? |
| 7th July 2009 drofykceb | Prices - From: To Market, To Market Prices are dirt cheap compared to anything you would find in the States! You can get gorgeous, huge flower arrangements for a few dollars. |
| 7th July 2009 Jill | - From: To Market, To Market Hi Becky - I think flower market would obviously be a favorite out of those! How are the prices? After conversion, do you feel like the prices are US equivalent for the quality? Not sure how the bunny market is in Austin but how about the flowers? |
| 6th July 2009 drofykceb | Junky Boat - From: Fourth of July Junk Yeah, it was kind of disappointing, but I found out there's only one real historic junk left in Hong Kong, called the Duk Ling. Weather pending, I might try to take a cruise on it, but it has been pouring cats and dogs. Jill said the kids got their postcard, (but that was from Hong Kong, and about a week or so earlier), hope yours doesn't dawdle too long! |
| 6th July 2009 Dad | And after I told everybody... - From: Fourth of July Junk ...you were going out for a party on a genuine Chinese junk! Oh, well, at least it looks like you weren't riding around on some firetrap garbage scow. Still waiting for that first postcard! |
| 5th July 2009 Jill | - From: Fourth of July Junk Hi Becky! Kate and Jack got their post card and we very excited! Also, thank you for printing as the kids usually give up on cursive. Glad you are having more good clean fun! |
| 3rd July 2009 drofykceb | Thanks! - From: Culture Shock I appreciate your words of support. I hope you and your husband have a great time in Ha Long Bay - it is a truly amazing place. Safe travels! |
| 3rd July 2009 Abi Kemp | Fair play to you - From: Culture Shock Hi, I was just looking through blogs to try and get some tips for halong bay cruises when i happened across your blog. i am travelling with my husband and we have been away from home for 6 months so far, i hust wanted to say fair play to you doing all this on your own, it can be very intimidating when you are with someone let alone when you are on your own. reading your blog has also made me appreciate having someone to share this with. I hope that your feeling better soon and i have the ultimate admiration for what you are doing, i know it might not feel like it at the moment but there will be many many positive things to come out of your experiences. good luck and don't let them grind you down a fellow traveller |
| 2nd July 2009 Mom | Isn't Skype Wonderful? - From: Back in Hong Kong Just wanted to say how great it was to actually see you again on Skype and be able to count all the fingers and toes. It was also very encouraging to hear that you are thinking about continuing your adventure. While adventures are exciting and memorable, thay are also exhausting. Good idea to recharge your batteries. It will be fun to hear about your Peking Duck dinner on Friday night. Hopefully they will not serve it with the feet and head like in the Christmas movie "Christmas Story" with Ralphie and his family. Ha Ha. Enjoy July 4th with Travis and his buddies. However with the quantity of alcohol that he has ordered, you may need to take some notes so you can report on your blog. Have Fun, Relax, and Celebrate. Love Mom |
| 2nd July 2009 Helen Hunter | Of Course, l forgot.... - From: Back in Hong Kong .... Retail Therapy! Just what a girl needs, albeit for flip flops!..... You do sound a lot better Rebecca which is great to hear... Lets hope your bug/virus clears up for good too... |
| 2nd July 2009 Jill | - From: Back in Hong Kong This sounds much better to me! But I'm not sure I can handle being on a plane for more than 3 hours... I know I am wimpy - you can do this! |
| 2nd July 2009 drofykceb | Thanks! - From: Culture Shock Helen - thank you for your words of encouragement! I am sure that I will be in a better state of mind to make decisions on how to proceed after a few days in HK, and some time with friends. I am already feeling the urge for adventure, and I have only been back for a few hours! Amazing how you can rejuvenate... You are right that this is probably the real test of my mettle as a traveler, and I certainly do not want to give up on a years-long dream. Please keep in touch and I will let everyone know what I'm planning! -B |
| 1st July 2009 amber | - From: Culture Shock Smoking?!? Bad, bad, bad!! I can't believe that in this day and age you would do such a thing to yourself! Get out of the country and move on! |
| 1st July 2009 Helen Hunter | Transform: Challenges into Opportunities; & Problems into Solutions. - From: Culture Shock (((((((Big Hugs)))))) for Rebecca. I admire your honesty about how your feeling and the thought of travelling alone is one that grips me occasionally and l haven’t gone yet! I understand Vietnam is still a very very poor country and what we would consider to be “roughing it” would possibly be luxury to them in some places. So I can identify with how low it must be making you feel right now and that’s without the heat and your debilitating illness you’re suffering from as well, which only compounds everything and makes the whole thing seem 10 times worse than it really is.. Maybe a few days in Hong Kong with dry bathroom floors, clean water, air con, clean sheets and sleep might make you feel a) better b) stronger and C) Feel like getting back on that god damn horse! I guess this is where you have to dig very deep indeed. And l agree with you that’s it’s not like you can share the up’s and downs of this and cry on the shoulder of a companion which would make it all the more bearable as well… I personally and extremely selfishly don’t want you to quit. Because l enjoy reading your blogs and you do not strike me as the sort of person to give up. “At least Seven years” you said you’d dreamt of this trip. Try not to let a small backwater country get the better of you. I’m sure you will have many magical once in a life time experiences when you feeling well and stronger. This is part of your life’s journey and you wouldn’t want it to be plain sailing all the way because you wouldn’t learn anything… And hey, You think you’ve got it bad, our air con broke down at work yesterday and it’s 30c So We’ve had to plug a fan in! And if that wasn’t bad enough, l’ve chipped a nail!!! Hee Hee…. Get out of Nam PDQ [Pretty Damn Quick] rest in HK for a while cos if you give up you may regret it. But it is your choice hun, no one will think any less of you… Well, we all will actually we just won’t say.. Sorry, Poor British humour there…. |
| 1st July 2009 Jill | - From: C'est Magique We watched Nim's Island last week and this is in the movie too! |
| 30th June 2009 Neomi | - From: Nice People, Nice Shopping Is the hapless backpacker crying, or just overwhelmed by smells? That is a GREAT photo. So glad you found your photo card!! I'm glad heartwarming things are happening to you, too. Those can really make a difference. |
| 30th June 2009 Neomi | Hang in there - From: A Safari I can completely understand why the constant harassment from the locals is getting you down. I hope things start to look up once you leave Vietnam, but I suspect things (the begging) will be similar all over Asia. It looks lovely, though. Hope you are meeting some nice, somewhat mature traveling companions. :) |
| 30th June 2009 Mom | Sharing is Good - From: Solo Woes It sounds like independent travel is a little like "childbirth". It is painful at moments when you are actually doing it, but it is wonderful to look back on and generally results in the "birth" of many new memories and stories. Like "childbirth" travel is more fun when you have someone to share it with. Those "Did you see that?" or "Can you believe this?" times are important. As Three Dog Night put it "One is the loneliest number that you'll ever do". But just think about the cocktail hour chatter that you have available! Love Mom |
| 30th June 2009 drofykceb | Smells.... - From: Solo Woes Oh no! That sounds miserable! I hope you at least saw some whales for your trouble! |
| 30th June 2009 Jill | - From: Solo Woes Very familiar scene, but all voices in English... Ken and I were on a whale watching tour off the coast of Provincetown, Mass... we are out in choppy seas to see the whales on a large sight seeing boat with a snack bar - cooking up some kind of breakfast. They start handing out plastic bags and I think, oh how nice they are giving us trash bags to keep the boat clean. On cue, all these people start vomiting! I had no idea I would get sea sick until that smell hit the air with the greasy kitchen smell too. I made Ken walk me out and sit on the side of the boat but it was freezing! I never threw up but I really wanted too. Oh course someone walks by and makes some funny comment that was suppose to make us laugh and I may have bitten her head off! When we got back we found out we were the only boat to go out that day because seas were too choppy. |
| 29th June 2009 drofykceb | Communication - From: Solo Woes Amber - I won't deny it's been frustrating! Tonal languages and all - I just can't get them. I get by with English, a mix of pointing and waving and finger-thrusting (for numbers, you see), and sometimes all that just doesn't get the point across. I mean, how do you say "You liar, you told me 8 dollars and now you've changed your mind and are swearing on your mother's grave that you would never say 8 dollars but I know you did and your mother's probably cackling in her grave at how you're cheating the blue-eyed foreigner..." ??? |
| 29th June 2009 amber | - From: Solo Woes I'm still curious- how do you communicate? Do you just sound out the phrases out of your book or do you use English? I think I'm too intimidated by Asian cultures to even attempt to visit. Sad, but true. So bravo to you! |
| 28th June 2009 Jill | Great day! - From: Nice People, Nice Shopping That sounds like a great day! Get those photos backed up to snapfish or Walgreens right now! |
| 28th June 2009 drofykceb | Leggings, and stuff - From: Nice People, Nice Shopping You can see the leggings in the pics...I think they are just leg coverings, maybe for modesty's sake, maybe to keep the insects away. The leggings all appear to be pretty much the same, but the ribbons that tie them are different. I will have to see if there is some significance to that. Otherwise their dress is very similar, but with difference head-dresses and tunics. |
| 28th June 2009 amber | - From: Nice People, Nice Shopping Aw! I love to hear that honest people DO exist- It gives me hope! So what's with the leggings? Are they like socks? Do different tribes have different leggings? Do the various tribes dress differently altogether? |
| 26th June 2009 drofykceb | On the Mend - From: The Climb Climb to Cat Cat Thanks, Jill....I would say veggie all the way, but then you have to make sure it's cooked properly! I just hope I don't revert to my "Africa diet" - rice!!! |
| 25th June 2009 Darlene Pendell | Tid Bits - From: The Climb Climb to Cat Cat Hey Becky, I always thought that Indigo dye was from some kind of nut not leaves. Thanks for another of the many things I am learning from your blog. |
| 25th June 2009 Jill | glad you are doing great again! - From: The Climb Climb to Cat Cat Sounds like a veggie diet is the way to go in that part of the world! |
| 25th June 2009 drofykceb | Sa Pa Weather - From: The Climb Climb to Cat Cat It rains in the early eary morning, then tends to clear up in the late morning afternoon. Hopefully it stays that way. Plus much cooler than in Hanoi! |
| 24th June 2009 Sam | Hello! - From: The Climb Climb to Cat Cat Hello! I'll be visiting Sapa in a couple of days --what's the weather like over there at the moment? :) |
| 24th June 2009 drofykceb | True, true - From: The Climb Climb to Cat Cat Yes, I think Ha Long Bay might have been every bit as ethereal if were [i]not[/i] for the partygoers. Lesson learned, though! Vietnam does have some spectacularly varied scenery. |
| 24th June 2009 Mom | Cat Cat - From: The Climb Climb to Cat Cat I have been reading about the villages around Sa Pa. Cat Cat was mentioned as one of the best. I can see how the name would appeal to you. Bouff would approve! Nice to see a more gentle side of the country for a change. While cavorting with the Qiwis and Aussies is fun too, this is actually more appealing to the soul. Such magnificant vistas. Who knew all this was in Vietnam??? |
| 24th June 2009 drofykceb | Michelle - From: How to Piss Off a Doctor Nah...she lives in San Francisco, though. She moved on into Laos yesterday, so I'm wishing her the very best! |
| 24th June 2009 drofykceb | Nice Legs? - From: Paradise, Or "Survivor"? Why thank you, I grew them myself! |
| 23rd June 2009 Neomi | - From: Vietnamese Water Puppets Still can't believe you are in Vietnam. So sorry to hear about your earlier health scare. I'm relieved you are feeling better. It could have been much, much worse (both the sickness and the cure). I look forward to your blog every day. My favorite line in this one is "On a buffalo with flute." Of course. What better place to hang out and play music? |
| 23rd June 2009 Helen | Not what you were expecting.. - From: How to Piss Off a Doctor OMG you poor thing! That must have been pretty scary for you, what a nightmare! Nice of Michelle to stay with you throughout your brief stay in hospital that must have been quite a weight of your mind while the Dr’s played at being Dr’s. His name wasn’t Mengeles was it??? Stay safe. H. |
| 23rd June 2009 amber | - From: Paradise, Or "Survivor"? Nice legs! |
| 23rd June 2009 drofykceb | Monsoons... - From: Really Big Buddha Well, the first really big rain was not until today. But by then it was a totally welcome relief from the heat! How as the honeymoon, Ms. Van Heaver??? |
| 23rd June 2009 Neomi | I was going to say Rio, too... - From: Really Big Buddha Love, love your blogs. Travis and Matt are also becoming huge fans. The one about Cantonese opera had me in stitches. I, too, have never met a dull or non-awesome Aussie in my life. Hey- one question. How's the "monsoon" season? All it's cracked up to be? Miss you. Stay safe! |
| 22nd June 2009 drofykceb | Postcard coming your way - From: Really Big Buddha Hopefully it doesn't take all summer.... |
| 22nd June 2009 drofykceb | Postcard coming your way - From: Really Big Buddha Liz - e-mail me your mailing address so I can send you your postcard!! Great researching! |
| 22nd June 2009 drofykceb | Souvenirs... - From: Really Big Buddha Actually, they are mostly Buddhist charms and bracelets and figurines. I didn't see any cow crap, but I guess that's because it's freely available in the bus parking lot! |
| 22nd June 2009 drofykceb | Nosy Miss Helen ;) - From: Meeting Uncle Ho Helen - I am happy to answer questions! I am mostly doing stuff as I go; I don't like being tied down to a schedule for too long at a time. As my recent illness in Vietnam shows, I have had to spend a couple of extra days in Hanoi than I had planned. It is really easy to book as you go! I have definitely met lots of interesting and very nice people. I've stayed in both dorms and double rooms at hotels. The hostels vary in quality; ask to see a room before you decide on it. Sometimes if you find someone else to share a room (not that hard to do), you can get a good double hotel room with AC and cable TV for a buck or two more than you'd pay to sleep in a 10-bed dorm. That said, hostels are still the best places to meet other travelers, if you start to get lonely. Best of luck with your travels! |
| 22nd June 2009 drofykceb | Packing - From: Packing Like a Girl Annie - I hope your trip goes well. As far as advice goes, I would say that you might be able to do without even ONE long-sleeved shirt if you were staying in SE Asia. The only reason you might want one is if you find yourself deep in the jungle on a trek and want to avoid mosquito bites. I suggest you also bring some camisole/tank-top shirts, and possibly a second bathing suit - you'll be wearing them in touristy areas for sure. Skirts are the very BEST! I just sleep in a t-shirt or my underwear. hope this helps! |
| 22nd June 2009 Liz D | Thank the lord - From: How to Piss Off a Doctor Thank the lord that your bag was not stolen, and that Michelle was there to help you. You survived your first tricky challenge. Hats off to her for running interference with the hospital doc. I think you will have more challenges, and your stuff may get stolen at some point. But this was a good learning experience -- you can survive things like this. But you should also be careful. Hang in there, Miss Becky. |
| 22nd June 2009 amber | - From: How to Piss Off a Doctor Oh yuck! Sorry you ran into trouble so early on, but glad it wasn't too serious and that you're on the mend. |
| 21st June 2009 freedom4life | - From: Packing Like a Girl Hey Rebecca, I really really enjoy your blog/advices and will be following the rest of yr trip. I read it all yesterday. I am also a woman who will be traveling solo for 6 months in Asia from end September. I am already preparing my packing list... as I only one to be carrying a 40l backpack. (hopefully this is enough) Based on the picture/list, I understand you only brought one long sleeve item (+your raincoat).... since you are living the life... is it enough? I will be visiting similar countries than yours but also North of India, Indonesia and have difficulty to select the tops I should bring... Any advices in terms of sleepwear? Have fun and keep your smile A |
| 18th June 2009 Mom | Whoa Ho!! - From: Meeting Uncle Ho Wow, I just cannot get my head around the idea that you are roaming around North Vietnam and visiting Ho Chi Minh. Being born in 1948 means that I was in college during much of the period of the Vietnam War. Many of my friends were either drafted and sent to Vietnam or lived in constant fear of being drafted and sent to Vietnam. All the young guys viewed a tour in Vietnam as almost certain death. The newspapers were filled on a daily basis with the casulties of the war that was being fought on the other side of the world for reasons that were someone nebulous. Sound familiar to anyone? It is hard for me to see Vietnam as anything other than a place where tens of thousands of Americans died. Visiting the Vietnam War Memorial still brings tears to my eyes. I guess that my parents generation would feel the same way about visiting Germany or Japan after WWII. I guess indeed "Time heals all wounds." |
| 18th June 2009 Helen | Travel Question - From: Meeting Uncle Ho Hi Rebecca, May l ask if you are booking trips on route or are they already pre planned. Also, l will be a lone traveller late next year, so are you meeting lots of interesting people and travelling with them or mainly doing it all alone? Are you staying in some good clean hostels with bathroom etc or are you sharing in dorms. Darn nosy really aren't l eh Thanks in advance Helen |
| 17th June 2009 Darlene Pendell | Where in the world is Becky? - From: Macau SAR Thanks Becky, I needed to look up both Andorra and Macau. Your pictures and messages are great. I suppose some rooms in Vegas are exactly like you described, the hush of anticipation. I've never been in any of them. |
| 15th June 2009 Mom | Souvenirs???? - From: Really Big Buddha Just wondering what kind of souvenirs one has to choose from under the world's largest Buddha? Hopefully they are not made from the abundant offerings left by the bovines!!! However that said, I have been in souvenir shops in Texas where they actually sell such souvenirs, however the are referred to as "Bull Shit". Keep on having fun. Love, Mom |
| 15th June 2009 drofykceb | Best of Luck! - From: Really Big Buddha I'm glad you are enjoying the blogs, I hope you get some useful tips from them. If you have any questions feel free to ask...Becky |
| 15th June 2009 Liz D. | Huge statues - From: Really Big Buddha What about the giant Christ statue in Rio? According to Wikipedia: The statue stands 30 metres (98 ft) wide and 38 metres (120 ft) tall with its pedestal. It weighs 635 tons (700 short tons), and is located at the peak of the 700 metres (2,300 ft) Corcovado mountain in the Tijuca Forest National Park overlooking the city. that sounds pretty big to me! |
| 15th June 2009 Jill | - From: Really Big Buddha I look forward to your blog every morning! Glad you are making the most of your trip and living your dream! Keep it coming... |
| 15th June 2009 Dad | Well, this one in Rio de Janeiro is pretty big... - From: Really Big Buddha ...and never underestimate the industry of your fellow North Americans. I'm PM'ing you some from places such as (where else?) Arkansas. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/68/Corcovado_statue01_2005-03-14.jpg |
| 15th June 2009 Helen UK | Keep them coming - From: Really Big Buddha Reading all of your blog l realise this isn't your first trip away! Impressive.. I'm heading to South-east Asia next year for my very first long term trip so it's interesting to read what you'll find and how you'll get on, so plenty of tips please! Loving your story's too... Have a blast and stay safe. H. |
| 15th June 2009 drofykceb | Audio Issues - From: Cantonese Opera I'm not sure what the problem could be, it has worked for me on the computer I'm using. There might be some sort of plug-in you need? I looked at the site's help page but no joy there. The only suggestion is that you could try using Firefox (if you aren't already). |
| 14th June 2009 amber | - From: Cantonese Opera As I understand they are pretty much the same when written, but completely different spoken. I wouldn't know. I did look up the plot of the opera, which is supposed to be a Chinese classic, and it sounds pretty good. Maybe it sounds better on paper. Speaking of which, the audio clip didn't work for me. Am I doing something wrong? |
| 14th June 2009 Sandi | Whew! - From: Cantonese Opera After listening as long as I could, I concluded you did the right thing. Your blog is great! Thanks. |
| 14th June 2009 drofykceb | Mandarin v. Cantonese - From: Cantonese Opera Amber - actually I tried to learn a phrase or two in Mandarin back when my college roommate was taking it. I can say "You are my friend," but that's about all. Cantonese is apparently very different from Mandarin (that's what they speak in Hong Kong), but they're both tonal language, which I find amazingly difficult. I haven't heard Fluenz before - I may have to check it out since I want to learn Spanish |
| 14th June 2009 amber | - From: Cantonese Opera Not sure which frightens me more- the guy's hat or his makeup? I thought the ladies looked beautiful, though far too made up. If you ever want to learn Mandarin, I highly recommend Fluenz. It's brand new and pretty pricey, but the best language-learning program I've ever used. They have a demo lesson online that I did and it was fun! |
| 13th June 2009 Liz D. | Good love - From: Feng Shui and Fortune Tellers July and August are for good love, eh? Loved this and the post about the 10,000 Buddhas. |
| 13th June 2009 Mom | - From: What To Do With Ten Thousand Buddhas So at last I see why you wanted to make this trip. This temple while really out of the way and perhaps relatively new compared to many, makes the trip special. Those 12,800 buddhas will be a lifetime memory. Enjoy!!! |
| 12th June 2009 Shira | Nice Place - From: Canned Fish and Kahlua Wow your friend Travis has a nice pad! |
| 12th June 2009 amber | - From: Feng Shui and Fortune Tellers I didn't even know real toilets that small existed! |
| 12th June 2009 Mom | Vegetarian??? - From: Feng Shui and Fortune Tellers Since we all know how much you do not love any kind of fish, is your new interest in eating vegetarian to avoid unknown meat or fish (shrimp crunchies aside)? Good plan!!!! May have to readjust when you return to the red meat eating state of Texas. |
| 12th June 2009 Jill | - From: Feng Shui and Fortune Tellers I think you found the children's restroom! |
| 11th June 2009 Dad | I knew that! - From: Canned Fish and Kahlua I actually found it independently before I saw Ken's answer! But for awhile I thought I was going to have to crop someone else's picture from the market to show just the Chinese name on the label. |
| 11th June 2009 amber | - From: Canned Fish and Kahlua And here I was wondering if YOU even knew the name of it! Did you try one? (Hi, Jill!) |
| 11th June 2009 AR | duh - From: Birds, Dried Fish, and Other Scary Stuff I knew about it....I'm just not getting it. You're not scared of ANYTHING....except flying things. This is bewilderment. >:< |
| 11th June 2009 drofykceb | We Have a Winner! - From: Canned Fish and Kahlua I'm impressed! One postcard coming, to Jack and Kate! Good job, Ken, nice googling! |
| 11th June 2009 Jill | is it.... - From: Canned Fish and Kahlua .... a squid fruit? |
| 11th June 2009 Ken Ivie | Dragon Fruit - From: Canned Fish and Kahlua Dragon Fruit BTW...a google search of "strange fruit" gets some interesting results! Yes, I cheated. Make to post card out to Jack and Kate. |
| 11th June 2009 drofykceb | And You Call Yourself My Best Friend??? ;) - From: Birds, Dried Fish, and Other Scary Stuff How can you not know about my bird phobia, Girl??????? I HATE the darn things, they are flying rats! Hm, but then again I didn't know about the cockroach thing. Then again, that's probably something that MOST people hate. |
| 11th June 2009 drofykceb | Really, REALLY Idiot Proof - From: Touchdown! It was super-duper easy, everything is in English, too, and very efficient. I mean, I was battling MAJOR jet lag and managed to figure it out.... Am steering clear of Kahlua in attempt to detox after two weddings and a reunion. |
| 11th June 2009 Angelica | so.... - From: Touchdown! how idiot proof is it really? uber uber idiot proof for us scaredy cats or just enough for those not used to other cultures? btw- how was the kahlua? |
| 11th June 2009 Angelica | hmm.... - From: Birds, Dried Fish, and Other Scary Stuff ...amber's too smart to be your friend. or maybe she's just to smart to be my friend...maybe that's it. nevertheless, explain this irrational fear of birds again....i'm not getting it. perhaps that's my irrational fear of cockroaches coming out and negating the birds. come again????? you're not scared of much woman. what is this about birds..the creatures that never seem to be around??? que??? |
| 11th June 2009 drofykceb | Sweet! - From: Birds, Dried Fish, and Other Scary Stuff Thank you, Amber! I will noW walk up to the next person I see admiring and orchid and tell them all about it's sepals and symmetry. However, if they have any follow-up questions, I will have to run out of the room, shoot you and e-mail, then rush back with the answers! Seriously, though, that is good to know. You would have loved the flowers, they were really beautiful. |
| 10th June 2009 Travis | - From: Touchdown! hahaha--i know myself well enough not to keep booze in the house. There's some unopened Baileys and Kahlua a friend gave me ages ago when she moved outta town, so feel free to bust those open if you get desperate! |
| 10th June 2009 B-Friend | I'm impressed! - From: Birds, Dried Fish, and Other Scary Stuff Good job baby! The only way I would walk through an inclosed area of free roaming snakes (my animal of fear) is with a shotgun and plenty of ammo (hence the war half of literature & war). The best I could hope for is to hit enough snakes to make a nice pair of boots. |
| 10th June 2009 amber | - From: Birds, Dried Fish, and Other Scary Stuff You can identify an orchid by several things. From what I remember, a few of the most notable traits of orchids: they have three sepals (the "petals" you see on the outside of a bud) and three petals, one of which (the "lip") is very different from the others. Orchids are also symmetrical so if you fold it in half like closing a book, both sides are the same. Probably more than you care to know about orchids, but now you can fake having knowledge of botany while you're there. I don't know how rare your orchid in the photo is, but it sure is beautiful. I love birds, any animal actually, and funky architecture, so please post more pictures! Looks like you're having a great time! |
| 9th June 2009 Angelica | HAHAHAHAHA!!! - From: Touchdown! I was so relieved that you got into town okay....however I now LOVE this blog thanks to "P.S. and where do you keep your vodka?"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Can't wait to see the many more entries to come over your journies! Bring 'em on! |
| 9th June 2009 Liz D | - From: Touchdown! you made it! enjoy and keep the posts coming. i am traveling vicariously through you. |
| 9th June 2009 Jill | Cool! - From: Touchdown! Sounds great so far! Please include as many pictures as you can! Glad you are on solid ground now - if not high in the air too. |
| 7th June 2009 drofykceb | Can Do! - From: Reader Homework: Don't Worry, It'll Be Fun Ken - that's a great one!! I will try to make it there, it should be on my way from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, & your buddy Antony actually mentioned that was a cool place to visit....I'll expect a drink from you when I get back, though - for making a bit of a fool of myself (which I'm bound to do anyway)! |
| 7th June 2009 amber | - From: A Preview I don't think it came across as overly negative. Every country has problems, and ours is no exception. I totally agree with the strip mall/suburbia part though. How many juice bars and retail shops do we need?? And I loathe cell phones. |
| 7th June 2009 Ken Ivie | Don't You Forget About Me... - From: Reader Homework: Don't Worry, It'll Be Fun I would like you to whistle the Colonel Bogey March while crossing (or standing next to, because I'm not sure you can cross it) The Bridge on the River Kwai. For those 80's children, this is the song the Breakfast Club detainees whistled during their Saturday detention (hence the title of this post...) It has a little more historical significance which you can read about here...http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Bridge_on_the_River_Kwai. Video proof would be most excellent, but I will take a photo of lips pursed, or I'll even the honor system. Have fun, and stay safe! |
| 6th June 2009 Mom | The American Dream or Life Behind Rose Colored Glasses - From: A Preview While I also believe that the USA is a great place to live and have devoted a career to government service as well, I have also had the opportunity to see that our way of life is certainly not the only way of life. We have become so used to our bounty and our privileges we tend to forget that this is not the norm around the world. Sometimes our arrogance is apalling. With priviledge should come some sort of modesty and gratitude. Unfortunatly, many Americans who claim to love their country do not have an ounce of modesty or gratitude. The are so focused on living behind their white picket fences and viewing the world through their rose colored glasses, that it is difficult or perhaps impossible to recognize or admit that while a great country, the USA is certainly not perfect. I don't think that life in the suburbs, while comfortable, provides most Americans with the openmindedness to see problems in this country that need to be fixed. I believe that we all have a responsibility to be critical of ourselves and our country as often and as vocally as possible. Hopefully this will generate discussion and debate and eventually a better understanding of what is needed to make this great country even better. Without some admission that this is not utopia, there is little hope that our country can get back to the basics that made it so strong in the beginning. So I say to you, you do not have to defend your concerns about the USA or do not have to apologize for voicing those concerns. Someone has to tell the emperor that he is wearning no clothes!!! |
| 6th June 2009 drofykceb | Truth Sucks, Doesn't It - From: A Preview I realize that this may come across as a bit down on the US of A. Let me qualify by saying that I still love my country (I served it for almost 10 years, which is more than most people can say). One of the GREAT things about the US is freedom of speech, and the freedom to say what you think is wrong with things and then try to change them. I am exercising that freedom on my blog, by telling you frankly that I wish things were a little more people-oriented, a little slower in pace, and a little less impersonal. None of that takes away from all the things that I LOVE about the US, and how excited I am to move back in about a year. |
| 5th June 2009 amber | - From: Reader Homework: Don't Worry, It'll Be Fun On second thought, maybe you should leave a little something, and maybe offer a prayer that when the time is right.... |
| 5th June 2009 amber | - From: Reader Homework: Don't Worry, It'll Be Fun I can think of many things for you, but I think my number one would be a visit to the Nai Lert Shrine in Bangkok. Making an offering is optional. |
| 2nd June 2009 Snap Shot Stacey | I'm packing - From: Ultimate Foreign-Excursion Checklist (UFC) I'ma packing for a trip too and want to get everything into a 40ltr pack. Thanks for your list. I've read many like it online but it's nice to finally see one written by a female! :D (I've got that tripod too, bought it after my trip to NZ when I realised there were more poles than anything else near what I wanted to photograph. Love it!) |
| 29th May 2009 drofykceb | Green Is In - From: Yes, I Cut My Hair Actually I think it's just the lighting, but now I'm going to go take a closer look. Glad you like the cut, though! |
| 29th May 2009 amber | - From: Yes, I Cut My Hair I love the style, it sure suits your face well! But what's with the green in your "after" shot? |
| 25th May 2009 Ken | Why can't you be more like your sister... - From: Packing Like a Girl That's awesome...now when we are packing for a three day weekend, and Jill has any bag larger than a change purse, I'm playing the "but Becky and her Asian trip" card. |
| 23rd May 2009 amber | - From: Life's Journey I fully intend to see my one hundredth birthday as well. I'll send you a card, if I can remember my own name by then, that is...Trained cats oughta be fun to see. Maybe they'll give you some pointers? |
| 20th May 2009 drofykceb | - From: Ultimate Foreign-Excursion Checklist (UFC) I guess I'm just awesome like that. And maybe I'm part turtle. Either way, you'll be seeing for yourself when I get to DC tomorrow! |
| 20th May 2009 AR | - From: Ultimate Foreign-Excursion Checklist (UFC) How in the *&%$ are you supposed to fit all of that in a "small" backpack!?!?!?!?!?!?!?! |
| 20th May 2009 amber | - From: Ultimate Foreign-Excursion Checklist (UFC) All THAT??? And on your back! Impressive! |
| 18th May 2009 drofykceb | Speed Drinker - From: DIY Travel Guide Who said it was just one glass? |
| 18th May 2009 AR | Speed reader - From: DIY Travel Guide The fact that you did that in one evening over one glass of wine is impressive...or an art form. |
| 16th May 2009 AR | HILARIOUS - From: The Mystifying World of Technology love it! |
| 15th May 2009 amber | - From: Heart of Darkness Glad you acknowledge that bad things happen EVERYWHERE. It really gets to me when I hear people talk about how a certain place or culture is so dangerous. I think to myself, "Do you walk around with your eyes shut? Haven't you heard about all the baloney committed by citizens in our own country/state/community?" I do admit that the horny monk part made me chuckle though... |
| 14th May 2009 Mom | Mother's Dark of the Night - From: Heart of Darkness I can certainly understand how those fears come up in the dark of the night. I actually see something positive that comes from these worries. First, is the acceptance that you are not always in control of your circumstances. Governments, airlines, bus companies, restaurants, hotels, locals, and even other travelers can all make your trip a wonderful experience or a nightmare that can haunt you for a long time. The secret is being cautious and not taking any unnecessary chances. When you were in the Middle East you had the advantage of speaking French and Arabic and unless you have been holding out on me, I don't think you speak any Mandrian, Cambodian, Thai, or Tibetian. Without the language advantage, even simple mishaps can become disasters. Traveling to some of the more out of the way spots that you want to visit, might best be done as a part of a group of some sort, tour or group of other backpackers. At least there is some safety in numbers. The other important thing is to be sensible and know when to "hold" and when to "fold" as to locations, activities, and transportation. If it doen't feel right, "take the next bus" or "get out of Dodge". While I believe somewhat in predestination, I also believe in common sense. While you can always have disasters wherever you go, having a problem on the other side of the world in these third world countries, is what keeps me awake at night. How could I get to you? How could I get you home? How could I ever live if anything happened to you? I am generally able to wrestle these fears to the ground and focus on the positive aspects of this wonderful experience and wish you the very best. Love Mom |
| 13th May 2009 Neomi | - From: Heart of Darkness Isn't it strange how the worry monsters always come at night, and seem so much scarier than in daylight? I think you're going to have an amazing time. (Just steer clear of Romanian pedophile pageants). You're such a savvy, unflappable traveler. Your gut instincts will help guide you away from the bad people and as for the other stuff, well, like you said, those things can happen anywhere. I bet your mom would be happy if you wore a helmet on all motorized conveyances though, buses included :) And I don't believe for one second that you'll be traveling all alone for long - you'll meet up with some cool world travelers in no time. I'm excited to see how your adventure turns out! I'm learning so much from your travels already - like the dangers of horny monk rapists. Who knew? |
| 12th May 2009 Amber | Yum! - From: The Human Pincushion (Don't Read This One, Parents) Dinner for your parent? What a good daughter... :) |
| 11th May 2009 Neomi | Impressive - From: Packing Like a Girl Wow. You're like Mary Poppins with her magic carpet bag! I can't believe the backpack only weighs 23 pounds. As for advice, I've never done anything like this before, but being from Montana am definitely used to planning for all kinds of weather. I'm thinking monsoons = lots of mud. Boots would be good, but if they're constantly wet aren't you in danger of them getting REALLY stinky, plus that foot rot thing soldiers in Vietnam always got? If your boots are nice and waterproof, maybe leave them here and buy some cheap rubber waders or something once you get there. I dunno. Thanks for sharing the fun! Love your blogs, chica. |
| 11th May 2009 amber | Looks good! - From: Packing Like a Girl I'm a serious overpacker so I'm probably not the best person to be dishing out advice here, but sunscreen and a water bottle are always a priority for me. |
| 10th May 2009 shmajo | thanks! - From: Packing Like a Girl It was great to see someone else trial packing and what works and doesn't. I'm taking off in October and I've done a couple test runs myself. Thanks for putting this out there. |
| 10th May 2009 Angelica | say WHAT?!?!? - From: Packing Like a Girl All of that stuff fit in that bag? I bow to you oh amazing packer of this world. I have no idea how you're going to cut that down - good luck on that! Woohoo! |
| 10th May 2009 Angelica | DANG!!!! - From: Packing Like a Girl Say wha?!?!??!?!?!!? You put all of that stuff in that tiny bag???? I was prepared for you to show up with a huge suitcase that was going to take up my entire apt. OMG!!!! That's amazing!!! Girl, you have skills. Congrats and good luck on dwindling it down. No help here on how to cut it out. Looks like you're already light. OOOOh, but make sure to keep your photo necklace! :) |
| 8th May 2009 Mom | Mother's Lament - From: The Fun Begins I am the Mother of this world traveler so as you might imagine the idea of my little Princess traveling around Southeast Asia alone (She calls it independent) is a little scary. However, I am also the Mom of this intrepid world traveler who has conquered third world countries in Africa and the Middle East and always grown as an individual as a result. So while I will most likely fret and worry that she has remembered to talk along everything that she might ever need since as we all know there are absolutely no places to shop in all of Southeast Asia and that she will be safe during these travels, I also celebrate her spirit and her willingness to learn from other people and other cultures. If we could all only be as willing to learn. Being the Mom of a World Traveler has certainly been an experience for Mom over the years especially when I have been invited to go along to visit the Valley of the Kings and the Great Pyramids in Egypt, Stonehenge and Windsor Castle in England, and to find our family roots in Scotland. I have been to medival walled cities in Germany and most recently fulfilled my lifelong dream of visiting Italy and especially Rome. Yes we did do a cooking class in Tuscany. While my free spirited daughter cruises around South Asia and keeps everyone up to date, I will try to capture my thoughts and feelings as the Mother of this fascinating vagabond child. Stay tuned as it will likely be a great story. |
| 8th May 2009 Angelica | LUUUVVVV it!!! - From: The Fun Begins OMG - I'm cracking up!! Love the contacts, love the bite-sized photo keeper and LOVE the fact that a CD really can take a beating! I'm sooo looking forward to your blog entries! Have fun. |
