Hey all...
I've been working hard (or maybe its the jet lag), but I've put most of the photos from my digital camera up on Flickr.
I still have some photos on film and from the camera I lost... there are plenty to see though.
I hope you enjoy. I really loved taking them.
Here they are by set:
England:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/lisa22/sets/72157605463308616/
Tanzania:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/lisa22/sets/72157606393221306/
Zanzibar:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/lisa22/sets/72157606396332537/
Thailand:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/lisa22/sets/72157606394233444/
Cambodia:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/lisa22/sets/72157606395891805/
Japan:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/lisa22/sets/72157606394926533/
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Thursday, July 24, 2008
last night
its my last night in foreign lands. Im overwhelmed.
Im both elated and sad to be leaving tomorrow. This trip has been incredible. It has inspired me and moved me in ways that I could not have imagined. I've realized that it is not about simply visiting a place, but experiencing it. Spending time with people who live the lives of the culture.
I have learned so much. I have compared many cultures in such a short amount of time. I have felt part of the family in England, Tanzania, and Japan. How unique!
I've experienced culture, religion, families, health, illness, and love. I am feeling very reflective tonight as it is my lsat night. I sat outside my hostel tonight and chatted with some English, Japanese and Netherlandian people. I feel so honored to have been able to go to all the places I have visited.
I know that I will need to digest these experiences, and I will continue to write on here as I learn more. I will also be updating all of my photos when I get home. Stay tuned, I cant wait to share.
Ok... I should go to bed. Tomorrow I hope to say goodbye to Japan with a happy tear in my eye.
Im both elated and sad to be leaving tomorrow. This trip has been incredible. It has inspired me and moved me in ways that I could not have imagined. I've realized that it is not about simply visiting a place, but experiencing it. Spending time with people who live the lives of the culture.
I have learned so much. I have compared many cultures in such a short amount of time. I have felt part of the family in England, Tanzania, and Japan. How unique!
I've experienced culture, religion, families, health, illness, and love. I am feeling very reflective tonight as it is my lsat night. I sat outside my hostel tonight and chatted with some English, Japanese and Netherlandian people. I feel so honored to have been able to go to all the places I have visited.
I know that I will need to digest these experiences, and I will continue to write on here as I learn more. I will also be updating all of my photos when I get home. Stay tuned, I cant wait to share.
Ok... I should go to bed. Tomorrow I hope to say goodbye to Japan with a happy tear in my eye.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Hello Kitty
Konichiwa!
Im in Osaka Japan. Im sorry I havent written sooner, Ive been having so much fun. Ive been staying with my friend Ken and his family.
I met Ken Saitou in Prague about 3 years ago. He was playing Led Zep on his electric guitar in the hostel room. We hung out that week in Prague and it was one of those moments `you want to bottle up and remember for ever`. So this week has been so unreal.
For starters, the hospitality and general kindess expressed by Ken and his family is unmatchable. I was picked up at the airport by Ken and his mom after a long but lovely flight from Bangkok. I was encouraged to rest, which I needed before Ken and I went to Osaka Castle.
I have always wanted to come to Japan. I wanted to study Japanese in high school (with Jenny); but didnt take that path. I have always been interested in the culture, and Ive gotten a huge wopping dose of it while Ive been here.
I had dinner with Ken and his family, Mom, Dad, and sister Nao. They are so wonderful. They made me feel so comfortable and taken care of. Its been so amazing since visiting Bangkok and Cambodia where everyone wants to get something from you.
Saturday was epic! Ken and I did a huge tourist venture to a few temples. So many Buddas!!!
First we started off at Kennin-ji. Its the oldest Zen Temple. It was quite beautiful and medatative. I really enjoyed the (I will have to look up the name) garden sand art. I love the feeling of tatami mats under my bare feet! I am enthralled by the Japanese design. Also there are some amazing dragons painted on the ceiling.
We then went to Kiyomizu Temple, which was crowded but really neat. I was interested by all of the `amuzements` that one can participate in. I drew a stick from the wooden container and gave it to the man who told me that I was going to have a lucky year. Ken read the piece of paper handed to me and translated into traveling is good, its good for me to be with others rather than alone, Im going to get married and have a baby. I like everything except for the last part. It was funny though. We both said oooooh noooo! I laughed at the little Budda rocks that are dressed in red cloths. My understanding of it is that it stops screaming children at night from crying if you do that type of blessing.
If the day wasnt big enough and filled with so many Buddas, we went to one more. This was really special though. We walked through all of these gates. It reminded me of that exhibit that was called The Gates in NYC a few years back. There were thousands of gates right next to each other for many many kilometers. It was this path that would take a few hours to walk all the way through. We hiked a little while and I marveled at the beauty. On the way back I was trying to realize the difference in experience that Ken and I were each having. On the backside of each of these gates was writing; which to me look so beautiful, but to Ken, he can read it as names of buisnesses that have given money for a gate to be placed in their name. Supposidly it will bring luck to your buisness or family.
This temple was really special and we were there for a small festival celebrating that temple. It was amazing. It was like what I remember from my childhood as a fair. There were amusements for children, food, singing and dancing. It was focused around the Buddist ceremony where they gave offerings and prayed. There was beautiful Japanese music and I was having that feeling of this is a special moment and I am so blessed and honored to be there. I can not thank Ken enough for opening his heart and home to me and sharing these wonderful experiences.
We ate some fried doughy octopus balls which were delicious and went to downtown Osaka. We played Pachinko and had a great time. I dont believe there is anyway to win at that game, but it was fun. You basically shoot metal balls through a machine and they fall in slots and then there is electronics (we played a ninja game) that you have to match numbers.
It was such a big day. I will never forget it.
The following day, we went to a few more temples, Ryozen - Kwanon and saw a ginormous Buddah. We also went to Sanjusangen-do and saw 1001 Buddahs and the Wind and Thunder God statues. We also went to Nara and I got to meet the deer! It cracked me up because I know deer to be in the woods afraid of people. These deer are friendly and cute and want to eat deer snacks. I couldnt stop laughing at them. Its often the small things that are the coolest.
Before this post gets too long, Ill skip through the other Buddahs and move on to the hotsprings. I went with Ken and his sister to the hot springs spa and took a naked bath. I requested doing things that werent touristy to get the daily life experience. It was really nice. There was no english and Kens sister speaks only a little so it was really amusing. We also went downtown and went shopping. I was shocked by the games and technology and displays of food that are in all of the windows. See the photos!
We had dinner with Kens English teacher Chris. He has been here for 18 years and it was really nice to meet him. It was refreshing to meet someone that has similar world views and loves to laugh.
What else? Went to the gym to work out, which was fantastic, silly as it sounds, I need to exercise to feel good mentally and physically.
Yesterday I also went with Kens mom to the grocery store and markets. She bought me a matcha green tea shave ice and we did our best speaking English. It was really sweet and I really enjoy her company. She reminds me a little of my own mom. She is really fun and caring. Actually, Kens family reminds me a little of my own. Nao is really funny and care free and Kens Dad is a hard worker but loves to relax at the end of the day. Im so happy to be spending this time with them.
Kens mom gave me a cooking lesson and I hope to make Okonomiaki - veggie pancake - when I get back to the States.
Last night they dressed me in a Kimino and we went to the local park to shoot of fireworks with so many friends of all ages. It was really fun. I was really entertained.
Today were chillin and tomorrow Im off to Tokyo for a day before the trip in time back to San Francisco.
Its been incredible. Every little bit of this trip. Ill write more later as this has gotten too long!
Im in Osaka Japan. Im sorry I havent written sooner, Ive been having so much fun. Ive been staying with my friend Ken and his family.
I met Ken Saitou in Prague about 3 years ago. He was playing Led Zep on his electric guitar in the hostel room. We hung out that week in Prague and it was one of those moments `you want to bottle up and remember for ever`. So this week has been so unreal.
For starters, the hospitality and general kindess expressed by Ken and his family is unmatchable. I was picked up at the airport by Ken and his mom after a long but lovely flight from Bangkok. I was encouraged to rest, which I needed before Ken and I went to Osaka Castle.
I have always wanted to come to Japan. I wanted to study Japanese in high school (with Jenny); but didnt take that path. I have always been interested in the culture, and Ive gotten a huge wopping dose of it while Ive been here.
I had dinner with Ken and his family, Mom, Dad, and sister Nao. They are so wonderful. They made me feel so comfortable and taken care of. Its been so amazing since visiting Bangkok and Cambodia where everyone wants to get something from you.
Saturday was epic! Ken and I did a huge tourist venture to a few temples. So many Buddas!!!
First we started off at Kennin-ji. Its the oldest Zen Temple. It was quite beautiful and medatative. I really enjoyed the (I will have to look up the name) garden sand art. I love the feeling of tatami mats under my bare feet! I am enthralled by the Japanese design. Also there are some amazing dragons painted on the ceiling.
We then went to Kiyomizu Temple, which was crowded but really neat. I was interested by all of the `amuzements` that one can participate in. I drew a stick from the wooden container and gave it to the man who told me that I was going to have a lucky year. Ken read the piece of paper handed to me and translated into traveling is good, its good for me to be with others rather than alone, Im going to get married and have a baby. I like everything except for the last part. It was funny though. We both said oooooh noooo! I laughed at the little Budda rocks that are dressed in red cloths. My understanding of it is that it stops screaming children at night from crying if you do that type of blessing.
If the day wasnt big enough and filled with so many Buddas, we went to one more. This was really special though. We walked through all of these gates. It reminded me of that exhibit that was called The Gates in NYC a few years back. There were thousands of gates right next to each other for many many kilometers. It was this path that would take a few hours to walk all the way through. We hiked a little while and I marveled at the beauty. On the way back I was trying to realize the difference in experience that Ken and I were each having. On the backside of each of these gates was writing; which to me look so beautiful, but to Ken, he can read it as names of buisnesses that have given money for a gate to be placed in their name. Supposidly it will bring luck to your buisness or family.
This temple was really special and we were there for a small festival celebrating that temple. It was amazing. It was like what I remember from my childhood as a fair. There were amusements for children, food, singing and dancing. It was focused around the Buddist ceremony where they gave offerings and prayed. There was beautiful Japanese music and I was having that feeling of this is a special moment and I am so blessed and honored to be there. I can not thank Ken enough for opening his heart and home to me and sharing these wonderful experiences.
We ate some fried doughy octopus balls which were delicious and went to downtown Osaka. We played Pachinko and had a great time. I dont believe there is anyway to win at that game, but it was fun. You basically shoot metal balls through a machine and they fall in slots and then there is electronics (we played a ninja game) that you have to match numbers.
It was such a big day. I will never forget it.
The following day, we went to a few more temples, Ryozen - Kwanon and saw a ginormous Buddah. We also went to Sanjusangen-do and saw 1001 Buddahs and the Wind and Thunder God statues. We also went to Nara and I got to meet the deer! It cracked me up because I know deer to be in the woods afraid of people. These deer are friendly and cute and want to eat deer snacks. I couldnt stop laughing at them. Its often the small things that are the coolest.
Before this post gets too long, Ill skip through the other Buddahs and move on to the hotsprings. I went with Ken and his sister to the hot springs spa and took a naked bath. I requested doing things that werent touristy to get the daily life experience. It was really nice. There was no english and Kens sister speaks only a little so it was really amusing. We also went downtown and went shopping. I was shocked by the games and technology and displays of food that are in all of the windows. See the photos!
We had dinner with Kens English teacher Chris. He has been here for 18 years and it was really nice to meet him. It was refreshing to meet someone that has similar world views and loves to laugh.
What else? Went to the gym to work out, which was fantastic, silly as it sounds, I need to exercise to feel good mentally and physically.
Yesterday I also went with Kens mom to the grocery store and markets. She bought me a matcha green tea shave ice and we did our best speaking English. It was really sweet and I really enjoy her company. She reminds me a little of my own mom. She is really fun and caring. Actually, Kens family reminds me a little of my own. Nao is really funny and care free and Kens Dad is a hard worker but loves to relax at the end of the day. Im so happy to be spending this time with them.
Kens mom gave me a cooking lesson and I hope to make Okonomiaki - veggie pancake - when I get back to the States.
Last night they dressed me in a Kimino and we went to the local park to shoot of fireworks with so many friends of all ages. It was really fun. I was really entertained.
Today were chillin and tomorrow Im off to Tokyo for a day before the trip in time back to San Francisco.
Its been incredible. Every little bit of this trip. Ill write more later as this has gotten too long!
Thursday, July 17, 2008
goodbye Thailand
I'm leaving Thailand in a few hours. I'm really excited to be heading to Japan. Im stoked to get out of touristville; as seeing the world from that perspective is not the way I like to experience things.
Here's some photos for ya.... sorry I don't have the most recent... Ill get those up when I'm back in a week!
Here's some photos for ya.... sorry I don't have the most recent... Ill get those up when I'm back in a week!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
the tuk tuk is waiting
So after being abused by tuk tuk drivers all week Im finally getting some pay back with this dude waiting for me. We already agreed on a price and he is waiting for me... ha. Of course, the market is flooded.
Heres a photo of the messed up tiger temple and elephant in Thailand. The way the exploit animals is criminal.
I just heard today that China and Africa have opened ivory trading again and its been approved by the UN. Messed up. Please dont buy animal goods. They are much more useful to the animal.
Safari Review
One more thing. Jenny did an awesome job of describing our safari in the Serengeti - check her blog out for photos and details of the trip. Woo hoo Jenny, trip of a life time. On top of everything else you helped me to experience.
http://www.jenintanzania.blogspot.com/
http://www.jenintanzania.blogspot.com/
hey Ladeeeeee
Tuk tuk ladeee?
So, I'm in Phenom Phen, capital of Cambodia. This is an incredibly rough city. No worries, I'm safe. Its more related to the history of this country and city. There is so much and if you want to know more (its so recent) I suggest reading about it.
Since Siem Reap...
Sada and I had a great few days enjoying the Angkor Wat ancient temples. Amazing how big and how beautifully these Buddhist and Hindu influenced temples were. Many date back to the 12th century and are a true testament to how creative and beautiful human expression can be.
We enjoyed the company of some ex-pats and some other travelers. Its a very touristy place, but still very enjoyable because it is so difficult to get here, it attracts a different kind of visitor.
We took the bus from Siem Reap to Phenom Phen. Wow! It was about 7 hours long, with decent roads, but the bus broke down 4 times. The first time the electricity stopped working, then the door wouldn't open then I think we blew up a tire (we pushed) and I stopped paying attention after that. It was a ride from hell. We stopped in a few small village towns which was great because I'm sure some of the kids we interacted with have never seen "westerners". I made a few small children cry, but a lot more laugh, teaching them some hand slapping games.
We finally arrived in Phenom Phen and we were utterly shot. Like, cant take it anymore, don't ask me to get in your tuk tuk, get out of my face hot tired and exhausted state. So, theres men everywhere asking to give you rides in their tuk tuk. And they all want to bring you to the Killing fields because it makes the most money for them. So, really, we get off this bus after 7 hours of no air conditioning, being in the last seat on the bus, and some guy asks us if we want to go to the killing fields.
Ha.
We end up at a very very nice hotel - for 20 bucks a night, with air con, and all the international tv we can handle. Showered and fed, all is well.
We've been exploring this city for a few days and its amazing. The recent history of mass genocide and this city being emptied for 45 months due to the Khmer Rouge Regime is so intense. You can see how much the people suffered here. And are still suffering. They work so hard to make such little money. But as a tourist, it really wears on you. As a tourist you are constantly being asked to take tuk tuk rides even if you are crossing the street. You are constantly being asked for money or to buy something. Today I was disgusted with this mother. She was in her 20s and had one child about 7 or 8 years old asking for money, another under the age of one running around on the street and sidewalk using him as an excuse to beg for money. I hated watching how she handled this child. It really bothered me deeply. I don't know how you could help her. I really feel terrible for all of those suffering and in need, but once you start to give, those in need will take it all from you.
In Siem Reap I went to the Children's Hospital and gave blood. It was a good experience. I went on a recommendation from my friend Ginger. It is safe to give blood and the lab tech that poked me did a decent job. She recaped the needle which I told her was a very bad idea, but they just dont have quite the same standards as we do. I learned that many children suffer from Dengue Fever and come in in shock and need transfusions.
Later in the day I visited another hospital called Kantha Bopha. This amazing Swiss man, "Dr. Beatocello" came to work in Cambodia in the 70s, and ended up staying. He has created 4 hospitals and his crazy dream of providing health care to this country has come true. This hospital was far more impressive than many clinics that I have been to in the US.He puts on a concert every Saturday night, by playing his cello for tourists. I had wonderful French company, and met some other amazing travelers. I hope they were able to donate blood. The theater we visited was amazing. He asks them for money and blood donations. He moved me to tears. He showed a short film about his work and how many children this hospital helps. It was incredible and inspiring. It only takes one person and a dream. If you are passionate about something and you really want it to happen, it will happen. It will take work and dedication, but I truly believe you can make your dreams come true.
So... today we visited S-21. A concentration camp from the Khmer Rouge Regime. It was comparable to Hitler's actions. Except this was far more recent. Many Cambodians were tortured and killed in this school turned prison in the late 70s. All of them were photographed as they entered the "reeducation camp" and many of their mutilations captured on film. There were many bones and skulls on display.
The part that was so disturbing about it though was that it was "touchable". The year 1979 is the year of my birth so it is very real to me. Unlike other wars before my life time, I can imagine this place 30 years ago. The floor is still stained with blood, the walls are there to touch, the skulls and bones are just set out. I think the worst thing, or most real scary feeling I had today was when I walked down the stairs at the museum and went the wrong way. I ended up on the opposite stairwell and there was a mound of clothes. The clothes of the prisoners that were all killed there. It was so horrible, because the museum was the place of torture and deaths. It was the kind of situation w here you could just touch these things or take them and it wasn't so sterilely preserved.
The part about this whole massacre is that it just seems like a Pol Pot was a madman. I'm not going to try to explain the history because it is still a bit confusing to me. The chronology is just difficult to explain with French independence and anti-Vietnamese feelings and then just the plain psychoticness of thinking that everyone is against you. This country is still suffering badly and is trying to revive itself. It will take some time.
Tomorrow I fly back to Bangkok and then off to Japan. I'm very happy to have visited this place, and I am very happy to leave. I am looking forward to visiting my friend Ken in Osaka. Ken and I met in a hostel room in Prague. We celebrated his birthday and I was impressed with his Led Zep guitar playing. I'm excited to have him show me around and be out of tourist-landia.
I want to get some more photos up for you all to enjoy, if I can I will. Perhaps I will have a few minutes in Bangkok. There are some amazing shots of the vest/bellbottom suits that Sada and I had hand tailored for us. They are "same same but different". I think they are hilarious, but it really didn't turn too many head over here. The pattern is outrageous, and will for sure be worn on many occasion in San Francisco.
Much love to you all. I'm staying positive and healthy.
So, I'm in Phenom Phen, capital of Cambodia. This is an incredibly rough city. No worries, I'm safe. Its more related to the history of this country and city. There is so much and if you want to know more (its so recent) I suggest reading about it.
Since Siem Reap...
Sada and I had a great few days enjoying the Angkor Wat ancient temples. Amazing how big and how beautifully these Buddhist and Hindu influenced temples were. Many date back to the 12th century and are a true testament to how creative and beautiful human expression can be.
We enjoyed the company of some ex-pats and some other travelers. Its a very touristy place, but still very enjoyable because it is so difficult to get here, it attracts a different kind of visitor.
We took the bus from Siem Reap to Phenom Phen. Wow! It was about 7 hours long, with decent roads, but the bus broke down 4 times. The first time the electricity stopped working, then the door wouldn't open then I think we blew up a tire (we pushed) and I stopped paying attention after that. It was a ride from hell. We stopped in a few small village towns which was great because I'm sure some of the kids we interacted with have never seen "westerners". I made a few small children cry, but a lot more laugh, teaching them some hand slapping games.
We finally arrived in Phenom Phen and we were utterly shot. Like, cant take it anymore, don't ask me to get in your tuk tuk, get out of my face hot tired and exhausted state. So, theres men everywhere asking to give you rides in their tuk tuk. And they all want to bring you to the Killing fields because it makes the most money for them. So, really, we get off this bus after 7 hours of no air conditioning, being in the last seat on the bus, and some guy asks us if we want to go to the killing fields.
Ha.
We end up at a very very nice hotel - for 20 bucks a night, with air con, and all the international tv we can handle. Showered and fed, all is well.
We've been exploring this city for a few days and its amazing. The recent history of mass genocide and this city being emptied for 45 months due to the Khmer Rouge Regime is so intense. You can see how much the people suffered here. And are still suffering. They work so hard to make such little money. But as a tourist, it really wears on you. As a tourist you are constantly being asked to take tuk tuk rides even if you are crossing the street. You are constantly being asked for money or to buy something. Today I was disgusted with this mother. She was in her 20s and had one child about 7 or 8 years old asking for money, another under the age of one running around on the street and sidewalk using him as an excuse to beg for money. I hated watching how she handled this child. It really bothered me deeply. I don't know how you could help her. I really feel terrible for all of those suffering and in need, but once you start to give, those in need will take it all from you.
In Siem Reap I went to the Children's Hospital and gave blood. It was a good experience. I went on a recommendation from my friend Ginger. It is safe to give blood and the lab tech that poked me did a decent job. She recaped the needle which I told her was a very bad idea, but they just dont have quite the same standards as we do. I learned that many children suffer from Dengue Fever and come in in shock and need transfusions.
Later in the day I visited another hospital called Kantha Bopha. This amazing Swiss man, "Dr. Beatocello" came to work in Cambodia in the 70s, and ended up staying. He has created 4 hospitals and his crazy dream of providing health care to this country has come true. This hospital was far more impressive than many clinics that I have been to in the US.He puts on a concert every Saturday night, by playing his cello for tourists. I had wonderful French company, and met some other amazing travelers. I hope they were able to donate blood. The theater we visited was amazing. He asks them for money and blood donations. He moved me to tears. He showed a short film about his work and how many children this hospital helps. It was incredible and inspiring. It only takes one person and a dream. If you are passionate about something and you really want it to happen, it will happen. It will take work and dedication, but I truly believe you can make your dreams come true.
So... today we visited S-21. A concentration camp from the Khmer Rouge Regime. It was comparable to Hitler's actions. Except this was far more recent. Many Cambodians were tortured and killed in this school turned prison in the late 70s. All of them were photographed as they entered the "reeducation camp" and many of their mutilations captured on film. There were many bones and skulls on display.
The part that was so disturbing about it though was that it was "touchable". The year 1979 is the year of my birth so it is very real to me. Unlike other wars before my life time, I can imagine this place 30 years ago. The floor is still stained with blood, the walls are there to touch, the skulls and bones are just set out. I think the worst thing, or most real scary feeling I had today was when I walked down the stairs at the museum and went the wrong way. I ended up on the opposite stairwell and there was a mound of clothes. The clothes of the prisoners that were all killed there. It was so horrible, because the museum was the place of torture and deaths. It was the kind of situation w here you could just touch these things or take them and it wasn't so sterilely preserved.
The part about this whole massacre is that it just seems like a Pol Pot was a madman. I'm not going to try to explain the history because it is still a bit confusing to me. The chronology is just difficult to explain with French independence and anti-Vietnamese feelings and then just the plain psychoticness of thinking that everyone is against you. This country is still suffering badly and is trying to revive itself. It will take some time.
Tomorrow I fly back to Bangkok and then off to Japan. I'm very happy to have visited this place, and I am very happy to leave. I am looking forward to visiting my friend Ken in Osaka. Ken and I met in a hostel room in Prague. We celebrated his birthday and I was impressed with his Led Zep guitar playing. I'm excited to have him show me around and be out of tourist-landia.
I want to get some more photos up for you all to enjoy, if I can I will. Perhaps I will have a few minutes in Bangkok. There are some amazing shots of the vest/bellbottom suits that Sada and I had hand tailored for us. They are "same same but different". I think they are hilarious, but it really didn't turn too many head over here. The pattern is outrageous, and will for sure be worn on many occasion in San Francisco.
Much love to you all. I'm staying positive and healthy.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
more photos
Floating Market in Thailand
Really exciting safari photo
I dont really have time to explain these and once I get home Ill put all the photos up. I'd rather be exploring Cambodia than on the computer but it is nice to stay in touch with you all and I've gotten a lot of positive feedback on the posts and photos. Traveling is amazing!
photos
Some Photos from Africa. Orphaned children from HIV in the village of Rombo. The catholic church experience. The Massai Village, elephants in the Serengetti, and a hippo pool
transportation
Hey all,
Wow. I keep wowing. This is a different kind of wow though.
We've finally arrived in Cambodia. We are staying at the lovely Shadow Guest House for the low low price of 13 USD a night. And, we have aircon. I wowed because today was a really long journey. We spent the last 24 hours plus on boats, buses, tuk tuks, and taxis.
Here's the recap...
We spent a few nights on Koh Tao which was a lovely little island in the Gulf of Thailand. We enjoyed the luxury of chillin on the beach and scuba diving in some epic reefs. It was 'really lovely, but very touristy. We had a few hours of rain, but managed to see a lot of the island, drink and relax. It was needed. I'm glad Sada made it scuba diving- we saw sea snakes, some nemo fish and a few huge triggers. We also enjoyed some drinks on the beach and attempted to swim with sharks.
We met some really fantastic people also traveling and/or ex-pats so to say. Hearing some of the stories of refugees from Burma and Cambodia was really special. A lot of people make it to Thailand to work and make money for their families back home. Also, James, I'm sure I will never see you again, but meeting you was refreshing and real.
So left the little island on a ferry and made it back to Bangkok in only 12 hours time. This morning we boarded a government bus and made it to the Cambodian border. The whole border crossing, visa, money exchange was interesting. Wow, intensity. Now Thailand has a lot of money because of their tourist industry. In stark contrast Cambodia does not. It is very apparent as soon as you cross the border you see the condition of the people and the roads.
I personally think the biggest thing that a government can do is set up infrastructure. That is create roads; and in that process, create jobs. I think this country has suffered in extremes like no other place I have ever been. Their recent Khmer Rouge and war situation has left a lot of devastation here. It is very obvious on the 3 hour ride to Siem Reap. The road was in such a bad state that it should have taken about an hour, but because of the dirt and rocks and work going on it is a disaster. As soon as you approach this city it warms up a bit and you see some beautiful buildings and a bit of fashion. Fashion is always a sign of time and money. You cant have it otherwise. If you are too busy trying to get food or get to where you are going, you cant bother with what you are wearing.
Anyway, we met some fantastic boys from West Virginia on our taxi ride today. They kept us good company and we shared a roadside beer when we stopped to fix the window in the Camry today. The driver just pulled over and got the electronics of the mechanism to make the window go up and down fixed. It took about an hour and it we had fun playing jump rope with some kids.
I'm excited to see Angkor Wat and the ancient temples. We've met some really interesting people here and I wish I could share some photos with you all. I might be able to once I get to back to Bangkok.
I'm a bit tired, but I cant complain. Having food and a shower is really a luxury here and it makes me feel separate from those who could never afford those comforts. There are so many levels of poverty, but I think one of the worst is in having a government that is destructive and corrupt. We will visit the landmine museum and pay our respects to those who have lost their lives and limbs from such horrible acts.
This is a really incredible place and we noticed a lot of people wearing yellow shirts in support of their political party today. It is really in a bad state, but hopefully getting to know the people here I will get an understanding of how it is being worked on. I hope that for the sake of the people here they are becoming healthier and happier.
I will write more when I know more. Nap time.
Family, I tried to call, but its tough. The 12 hour time difference and the phone card thing is never easy. I'm doing just fine. Much love to you all.
Wow. I keep wowing. This is a different kind of wow though.
We've finally arrived in Cambodia. We are staying at the lovely Shadow Guest House for the low low price of 13 USD a night. And, we have aircon. I wowed because today was a really long journey. We spent the last 24 hours plus on boats, buses, tuk tuks, and taxis.
Here's the recap...
We spent a few nights on Koh Tao which was a lovely little island in the Gulf of Thailand. We enjoyed the luxury of chillin on the beach and scuba diving in some epic reefs. It was 'really lovely, but very touristy. We had a few hours of rain, but managed to see a lot of the island, drink and relax. It was needed. I'm glad Sada made it scuba diving- we saw sea snakes, some nemo fish and a few huge triggers. We also enjoyed some drinks on the beach and attempted to swim with sharks.
We met some really fantastic people also traveling and/or ex-pats so to say. Hearing some of the stories of refugees from Burma and Cambodia was really special. A lot of people make it to Thailand to work and make money for their families back home. Also, James, I'm sure I will never see you again, but meeting you was refreshing and real.
So left the little island on a ferry and made it back to Bangkok in only 12 hours time. This morning we boarded a government bus and made it to the Cambodian border. The whole border crossing, visa, money exchange was interesting. Wow, intensity. Now Thailand has a lot of money because of their tourist industry. In stark contrast Cambodia does not. It is very apparent as soon as you cross the border you see the condition of the people and the roads.
I personally think the biggest thing that a government can do is set up infrastructure. That is create roads; and in that process, create jobs. I think this country has suffered in extremes like no other place I have ever been. Their recent Khmer Rouge and war situation has left a lot of devastation here. It is very obvious on the 3 hour ride to Siem Reap. The road was in such a bad state that it should have taken about an hour, but because of the dirt and rocks and work going on it is a disaster. As soon as you approach this city it warms up a bit and you see some beautiful buildings and a bit of fashion. Fashion is always a sign of time and money. You cant have it otherwise. If you are too busy trying to get food or get to where you are going, you cant bother with what you are wearing.
Anyway, we met some fantastic boys from West Virginia on our taxi ride today. They kept us good company and we shared a roadside beer when we stopped to fix the window in the Camry today. The driver just pulled over and got the electronics of the mechanism to make the window go up and down fixed. It took about an hour and it we had fun playing jump rope with some kids.
I'm excited to see Angkor Wat and the ancient temples. We've met some really interesting people here and I wish I could share some photos with you all. I might be able to once I get to back to Bangkok.
I'm a bit tired, but I cant complain. Having food and a shower is really a luxury here and it makes me feel separate from those who could never afford those comforts. There are so many levels of poverty, but I think one of the worst is in having a government that is destructive and corrupt. We will visit the landmine museum and pay our respects to those who have lost their lives and limbs from such horrible acts.
This is a really incredible place and we noticed a lot of people wearing yellow shirts in support of their political party today. It is really in a bad state, but hopefully getting to know the people here I will get an understanding of how it is being worked on. I hope that for the sake of the people here they are becoming healthier and happier.
I will write more when I know more. Nap time.
Family, I tried to call, but its tough. The 12 hour time difference and the phone card thing is never easy. I'm doing just fine. Much love to you all.
Friday, July 4, 2008
tiger temple
Hey all,
I've made it to Thailand. I was really really sad to leave Zanzibar and Tanzania. I know that I will return to Zanzibar one day to do some public health work as the people were some of the kindest I have ever met. I felt very comfortable there and the only piece missing was my lack of kiswahili.
So, after a crazy morning running around trying to get paint to paint Abduli's room (the young boy paralyzed in a swimming accident) I got on the boat back to the mainland. This sweet little 10 year old girl sat next to me and I was shocked to see that she was making this voyage herself.
When I arrived in Dar I helped her with her heavy packages and was reminded how independent the children in Tanzania are. I was really touched by her friendly and savvy spirit.
I left Tanzania and made it to Kenya and met a really great lady on the way. Laura, you were really fun to chat with and good luck with your family and work.
Arriving in Kenya I was shocked to turn around and run into Ryan and Josh. I met them in Rombo, they were the kids filming the documentary on HIV in Africa. They had been laid over in Nairobi for 14 hours. They got hooked up with the executive suite and we hung out and chatted about how they adventure ended up. Breezy, broke her leg very badly on a hike and had to get carried out of a ravine and eventually flown back to the states for surgery. Breezy, my thoughts are with you and I hope you recover soon.
So after a long flight I am in Thailand. I keep comparing it to Africa which is difficult. I'm trying really hard to be present. I'm really happy that I'm hanging with Sada one of my besties from San Francisco.
After arriving we went and did the tourist thing at Khoa San Road and drank buckets and yes, went to a ping pong show with some Australian guys. It was out of control.
Today we celebrated her birthday and went on a crazy bus ride to the floating markets, the River Kwai bridge and the Tiger Temple. I pet some tigers but it was a really strange place with essentially no temple and a weird vibe around these tigers. They're only about 5000 left in the world.
Now we are waiting to get on the boat to Koh Toa island. I'm stoked to play in the water. The beach is going to be fantastic and I'm looking forward to diving. Its supposed to be some of the best in the world.
Its 33oam and I'm going to drink a Tiger beer and see if I can get the tourists to sing happy birthday to Sada.
I've made it to Thailand. I was really really sad to leave Zanzibar and Tanzania. I know that I will return to Zanzibar one day to do some public health work as the people were some of the kindest I have ever met. I felt very comfortable there and the only piece missing was my lack of kiswahili.
So, after a crazy morning running around trying to get paint to paint Abduli's room (the young boy paralyzed in a swimming accident) I got on the boat back to the mainland. This sweet little 10 year old girl sat next to me and I was shocked to see that she was making this voyage herself.
When I arrived in Dar I helped her with her heavy packages and was reminded how independent the children in Tanzania are. I was really touched by her friendly and savvy spirit.
I left Tanzania and made it to Kenya and met a really great lady on the way. Laura, you were really fun to chat with and good luck with your family and work.
Arriving in Kenya I was shocked to turn around and run into Ryan and Josh. I met them in Rombo, they were the kids filming the documentary on HIV in Africa. They had been laid over in Nairobi for 14 hours. They got hooked up with the executive suite and we hung out and chatted about how they adventure ended up. Breezy, broke her leg very badly on a hike and had to get carried out of a ravine and eventually flown back to the states for surgery. Breezy, my thoughts are with you and I hope you recover soon.
So after a long flight I am in Thailand. I keep comparing it to Africa which is difficult. I'm trying really hard to be present. I'm really happy that I'm hanging with Sada one of my besties from San Francisco.
After arriving we went and did the tourist thing at Khoa San Road and drank buckets and yes, went to a ping pong show with some Australian guys. It was out of control.
Today we celebrated her birthday and went on a crazy bus ride to the floating markets, the River Kwai bridge and the Tiger Temple. I pet some tigers but it was a really strange place with essentially no temple and a weird vibe around these tigers. They're only about 5000 left in the world.
Now we are waiting to get on the boat to Koh Toa island. I'm stoked to play in the water. The beach is going to be fantastic and I'm looking forward to diving. Its supposed to be some of the best in the world.
Its 33oam and I'm going to drink a Tiger beer and see if I can get the tourists to sing happy birthday to Sada.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
mzooka
I'm not sure I have words for this week. I came to Zanzibar thinking that it would be nice for a few days. I ended up falling in love with this island, its people and all of the amazing views.
I'm going to write a quick blog because I want to go enjoy the rest of the evening with all these incredible people.
I'm very sad to leave Tanzania. The experience has been a once in a life time safari. I love this country and feel inspired to work here. The people are warm and welcoming. There is a lot of hardship, but I feel like people are generally happy. Its weird to be leaving just when I feel like I'm starting to get into the culture and know more of the language. I can make any Tanzanian laugh with a few phrases I know. I look forward to coming back here and working on some water projects.
I will not however miss the call to pray at 5am every morning. The little Muslim "come pray" song is lovely, but not at that time of the day. I think stuff doesn't get done around here because people are so often praying.
This weekend was filled with trips to the beach. Where I am staying in Bububu is only a minute walk to the beach but the other beaches I have visited are so stunning.
We went to visit a friend of Nanette's, in Mugwapawni. What an amazing woman! We visited slave caves and went swimming. We also went to Nmemba island with a whole crew of people on Sunday. It was the most beautiful water I have ever swam in. I've been in the water every day since Ive been here. Ill try to post some photos. You'll see.
I dove to a ship wreck yesterday and completed my PADI certification. I've been testing the local water sources for E. coli and trying a solar cooker to heat and kill bacteria (it hasn't worked yet. i.e., it hasn't gotten hot enough). I worked on building a rabbit hutch today with some lovely British girls, which was hilarious to watch the men try to understand how women can know how to use tools and cut and nail wood.
Some of the photos include Abu and his monkey Cobra, the dhow trip to Nmemba island, and the wonderful people I've been hanging with this week.
Off to Thailand tomorrow! Sada, I cant wait to celebrate your birthday.
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