Pai....sweet; hip; artistic; progressive....
We came to Pai for a couple days and will stay a week. If we had more time we would surely stay longer. It's a small town, the road lined with shops and cafes, each one totally unique, and artistic. Live music every 100ft...organic restaurants, wheatgrass shots, tea houses, gardens, walkways lined with stones,every night a long street market with crafts and food, crepe carts and chai...the party scene is here too, and it can be loud at night in town, but it's easy to forgive when everything else about this town is so lovesable.
Unfortunately, the air quality up here is also horrendous. Apparently it is due to farmers doing a lot of controlled burning in order to prevent forest fires as it is the dry season. I am still so congested and many others are as well. I read that the rate of lung cancer has doubled and the number one reason for doctor visits is respiratory and eye irritations. I hope one day in the future to be able to help educate the local people of alternative methods of preventing fire damage. I have never been so grateful for (relatively) clean air, and when I taste it again I will gorge myself on it.
We have been here for two and a half days. Immediately after we arrived we met a girl named Liz from Australia. She has been here for 6 weeks and is playing tour guide. She was an instant friend, and we Love her!! She took us to an art show our first night with live music and fire spinning. Wonderfully beautiful community, lovely venue and we made many friends.
We also met a girl named Maja ("maya") from Germany who we have adopted and have also fell in love with. Today the four of us ladies rented scooters and went adventuring. Liz took us to nice waterfall, and a pretty view point, but it's so dry here now and with all the burning, you couldn't see too much. We visited an eco- village, and then we stopped at a sweet cafe called "cottage in Love" and each got a different dessert and then passed them around the table tasting them all. There were some fun mini photo shoots throughout the day, and we ended the circuit with plates of organic veggies and baked spring rolls. We parted ways after a delicious cup of Chai at one of our new favorite restaurants "good life", and Alesha and I headed to the hot springs. It actually gets quite cold here at night so it was the perfect time to go. The springs are at a resort and it is stunning. The cost was $2.65 and came with a bottled water. The pool was designed in a huge U-shape with palm trees lounging over head and beautiful gardens all around. The water was very hot and mineral rich. Really what can I say??? Tis a very "good life"...and I am soooo grateful!
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Sunday, February 26, 2012
762 Curves...
Finally!!! I have been waiting for that classic, sketchy local bus ride in which you think to yourself..."maybe I should have just spent that extra $2 for comfort and safety"...
We landed at the bus station in Chiang Mai an admirable 45min early, which was pointless because the bus was an hour late...It could have been foreshadowing. When the bus did pull up, I eagerly waited for some muppets to come out singing and dancing. But the real comedy were the looks on the faces of some other tourists when we all realized this was our bus to Pai. Having traveled through Africa and Central America on some pretty harrowing rides, I was quite content, though still fully engaged in the humor of it all.
As we looked for our seats, we noticed a mat covered bench up front the size of a twin bed and I tried to claim it as my seat/bed (see FB photo), but was kindly referred to normal seat ;-). We plunked ourselves down in the front seat by the door...ahem. Bad idea. The open door was apparently not meant to be closed and so we scurried to secure our belongings- tying our bags to the bus railing so they wouldn't fly off the bus. The back of my seat was like velcro, and every time I sat forward there was a "phhhppp" as my shirt de-teached. Thai seat-belts?
As we drive down the road, the driver is reading...looks like a schedule, perhaps wondering where he is supposed to take us? We stop every other block to pick up someone's mail or so the driver could grab a snack or a Nescafé...stopping and starting, the side door wide open like a backwards convertible. Alesha and I looked sideways at each other, wide-eyed, and employed the practice of trust, patience and tolerance. Eventually we did begin to travel, and head up into the mountains......very, very slowly.
762 curves in he road until we get to Pai...
We landed at the bus station in Chiang Mai an admirable 45min early, which was pointless because the bus was an hour late...It could have been foreshadowing. When the bus did pull up, I eagerly waited for some muppets to come out singing and dancing. But the real comedy were the looks on the faces of some other tourists when we all realized this was our bus to Pai. Having traveled through Africa and Central America on some pretty harrowing rides, I was quite content, though still fully engaged in the humor of it all.
As we looked for our seats, we noticed a mat covered bench up front the size of a twin bed and I tried to claim it as my seat/bed (see FB photo), but was kindly referred to normal seat ;-). We plunked ourselves down in the front seat by the door...ahem. Bad idea. The open door was apparently not meant to be closed and so we scurried to secure our belongings- tying our bags to the bus railing so they wouldn't fly off the bus. The back of my seat was like velcro, and every time I sat forward there was a "phhhppp" as my shirt de-teached. Thai seat-belts?
As we drive down the road, the driver is reading...looks like a schedule, perhaps wondering where he is supposed to take us? We stop every other block to pick up someone's mail or so the driver could grab a snack or a Nescafé...stopping and starting, the side door wide open like a backwards convertible. Alesha and I looked sideways at each other, wide-eyed, and employed the practice of trust, patience and tolerance. Eventually we did begin to travel, and head up into the mountains......very, very slowly.
762 curves in he road until we get to Pai...
Friday, February 24, 2012
Trading the "Mai" for the "Pai"
Well I woke up feeling under the weather today... Have the sniffles (Im not convinced its not from the air pollution). My energy was mostly fine however, so we still went out for the day. I took Alesha to the park I visited yesterday and we sat at a sweet little coffee shop for awhile admiring the view. Later on, we played with the pigeons and flowers, and had a little photo shoot (see FB photos). We spents hours in the park...and miraculously, neither of us was pooped on!
Came home early this evening as I'm starting to feel run down again... Time to catch up on some rest.
We are leaving Chiang Mai tomorrow, and heading to Pai. Its about 3 hours away and much smaller and more natural. As much as I enjoyed it here, I am so ready to leave the noise, traffic and pollution.
We have about 10 days left til we leave for India. Ben has decided to meet us in India, for a spontaneous adventure! Alesha flies back to the US March 23, and Ben and are then going down to a two week permaculture design course. Just a little foreshadowing on the coming adventures ;-)
Came home early this evening as I'm starting to feel run down again... Time to catch up on some rest.
We are leaving Chiang Mai tomorrow, and heading to Pai. Its about 3 hours away and much smaller and more natural. As much as I enjoyed it here, I am so ready to leave the noise, traffic and pollution.
We have about 10 days left til we leave for India. Ben has decided to meet us in India, for a spontaneous adventure! Alesha flies back to the US March 23, and Ben and are then going down to a two week permaculture design course. Just a little foreshadowing on the coming adventures ;-)
Getting high in Chiang Mai
We arrived back in Thailand after another, 30 hour journey from Cambodia,early on Tuesay morning. After a 2 hr search for our guesthouse, and having to wait another 5 hours to check in, we finally landed in our room and promptly feel asleep. We woke up around 5pm and had some time in the evening to explore the town (i.e. shop ;-). Yesterday was our first full day here and I wasted no time locating the nearest yoga studio to work out some traveling kinks. The rest of the kinks were worked out by a little Thai massage...and some coconut milk ice cream. Ummmm...isnt ice cream good for stiff joints? I swear I read that somewhere... We didn't do much our first day, but did locate our new favorite restaurant which is OG vegetarian, and beautiful delicious plates fresh stir fry's and curries. YUM!
Today was more of an adventure. I have been seeing ads for tours, such as treks and waterfalls and they go for a minimum of $30. I really wanted to get out and explore the mountains, but didn't feel particulay called to spend $30 on a hike. So I decided to out-smart these tourist traps and I created my own tour. I rented a scooter and located a map. I found my way to the road leading up Doi Suthep (one local peak around 4-5 thousand feet.) As I was driving up, I was thanking profusely those trees for recycling all the air pollution for us. I have found Chiang Mai to be quite smoggy and it's been a challenge on my lungs. Anyway, just as I was starting my ascent, I saw a young man walking up the hill with a backpack on. On a whim I stopped to see if he wanted a ride. His face revealed a significant amount of relief and he ran up to accept my offer. His name was Christian and is from Switzerland. I asked where he ws going and he said "to the temple". Oh! I didn't even realize there was a temple up here! We saw a sign for the temple about 7mi down the road. I asked if he was planning to walk all that way, and wide eyed he stated he "had no idea it was that far". I was so glad I stopped to pick him up! So I decided to visit the temple too.
Inside the temple was a big golden monument. We walked with others, 3 times around the monument silently repeating the prayer we were given to say. At the end, we laid down our flowers on the alter. We lit candles and incense with our prayers and sat for some time just reveling in the sweet energy of the temple. Afterward we were blessed by a monk who sprayed holy water on us and tied string around our wrists for good luck.
We left the temple and drove up the mountain. We saw a sign for a waterfall and paid our $.35 to see it. As we drove a bit down the road we saw a trickle coming down the hill by the road. I joked saying "there's the waterfall!". After, 10 more minutes of driving on a very sketchy road, however, we realized that actually WAS the waterfall! It's probably much bigger during the rainy season.
My original intention was to go hiking, so we tried to get up to where I had heard of trailheads... But the road was really bad, and I wasn't sure we were going the right way. So we headed down.
We stopped off at another waterfall sign, but when they asked for money again, we smiled at each other and politely declined...this time a bit more saavy.
We made it down and said goodbye. One happy hiker, grateful for the luxury of a ride. An adventure, beautiful country side and sacred moments.
On the way home I found a beautiful park and took a stroll, eating some fresh pineapple and papaya and feeling so grateful for this time here in SE Asia. What a miracle every moment is.
Today was more of an adventure. I have been seeing ads for tours, such as treks and waterfalls and they go for a minimum of $30. I really wanted to get out and explore the mountains, but didn't feel particulay called to spend $30 on a hike. So I decided to out-smart these tourist traps and I created my own tour. I rented a scooter and located a map. I found my way to the road leading up Doi Suthep (one local peak around 4-5 thousand feet.) As I was driving up, I was thanking profusely those trees for recycling all the air pollution for us. I have found Chiang Mai to be quite smoggy and it's been a challenge on my lungs. Anyway, just as I was starting my ascent, I saw a young man walking up the hill with a backpack on. On a whim I stopped to see if he wanted a ride. His face revealed a significant amount of relief and he ran up to accept my offer. His name was Christian and is from Switzerland. I asked where he ws going and he said "to the temple". Oh! I didn't even realize there was a temple up here! We saw a sign for the temple about 7mi down the road. I asked if he was planning to walk all that way, and wide eyed he stated he "had no idea it was that far". I was so glad I stopped to pick him up! So I decided to visit the temple too.
Inside the temple was a big golden monument. We walked with others, 3 times around the monument silently repeating the prayer we were given to say. At the end, we laid down our flowers on the alter. We lit candles and incense with our prayers and sat for some time just reveling in the sweet energy of the temple. Afterward we were blessed by a monk who sprayed holy water on us and tied string around our wrists for good luck.
We left the temple and drove up the mountain. We saw a sign for a waterfall and paid our $.35 to see it. As we drove a bit down the road we saw a trickle coming down the hill by the road. I joked saying "there's the waterfall!". After, 10 more minutes of driving on a very sketchy road, however, we realized that actually WAS the waterfall! It's probably much bigger during the rainy season.
My original intention was to go hiking, so we tried to get up to where I had heard of trailheads... But the road was really bad, and I wasn't sure we were going the right way. So we headed down.
We stopped off at another waterfall sign, but when they asked for money again, we smiled at each other and politely declined...this time a bit more saavy.
We made it down and said goodbye. One happy hiker, grateful for the luxury of a ride. An adventure, beautiful country side and sacred moments.
On the way home I found a beautiful park and took a stroll, eating some fresh pineapple and papaya and feeling so grateful for this time here in SE Asia. What a miracle every moment is.
Sunday, February 19, 2012
The Real Cambodia
Finally! Today we were able to venture off the beaten tourist path and experience a local village. We were accompanied by our new friend Seyha, who I wrote about recently, that is dedicating his life to service in the local communities. We wanted to see the work he was doing, meet the village members and get an idea of what life was like in rural Cambodia. He took us to the village/orphanage which they have been building up over the years with a school, fish ponds, gardens, cafeteria, a small playground and teachers/foster parent housing. There are around 350 students in the school, at least 100 are orphans and about half are HIV positive. The project has largely been the vision of a man named Tim Maddocks, and began with the uphill battle trying to buy land which cost a staggering $1million dollars for only about 20-25 acres. In the end, through the help of donations and the powers of manifestation, he purchased the land, and built up simple yet adequate infrastructure. Now there are many volunteer teachers; community teachers; and parents who have agreed to be foster parents to 20 to 25 children for no less than 20 years! The children are learning to grow food; fish farm; play music; do art; and teach others. There is even a studio where the villagers are filming a cooking show of how to make vegan Cambodian food, which is airing on YouTube right now (look for vegan cambodian cooking)!
Being in this village was a breath of fresh air. The children are so happy, and there is a very peaceful energy everywhere you go. The volunteers are so kind and the foster parents are humble and caring. I am amazed at the way this vision has been realized, and the purity with which it has been carried out.
I feel very inspired by what is happening here. We have talked to Seyha about some of his plans. He is working to organize some biking trips across Cambodia to raise money to buy bikes for the village, and for continuing education for the children. His vision is to help the children reintegrate back into other local communities with skills to contribute. The children are being raised with a mentality to serve the community and set goals for their own educations.
Seyha is going to prepare for me a short description of the work he is doing, and I will then post it here for all who are interested. This is not a plea for your money...but if you want to be involved in these children's lives, and you do feel like donating money, you can contact myself or Seyha (on Facebook as Seyha Pen) for more information. I know that some of you make monthly or yearly donations to some charity or another. Many of these organizations may be using your money to pay employees; housing, food and per diem for volunteers; equipment; travel expenses; etc... If you want to make a donation straight to the source; that will be used entirely for the children and local communities... I can guarantee this will be a far greater use of your money. The proceeds go to starting new villages like this one and the ability to care for more orphans. I know I sound like those infomercials, but truly a little goes a long way here. Again, I am NOT soliciting money. It's just if you feel inspired and want to participate. It's a really good investment compared to many other organizations that are questionable and less personal. If you want to get involved physically, you can come and volunteer (for free- surprisingly not so common in the world); join a bike tour; or come up with a new idea for fund raising. Let me or Seyha know if you want to collaborate or generate ideas.
I will be posting lots of picture of the trip to the village on Facebook so check it out!!! You will fall in love with these faces :-)
Today was such a day of inspiration, motivation , heart-bursting-open gratitude, and visions of our potential for co-creating a change on this planet. Things are moving and shifting in my inner Universe and.... Ideas are forming...
;-)
Being in this village was a breath of fresh air. The children are so happy, and there is a very peaceful energy everywhere you go. The volunteers are so kind and the foster parents are humble and caring. I am amazed at the way this vision has been realized, and the purity with which it has been carried out.
I feel very inspired by what is happening here. We have talked to Seyha about some of his plans. He is working to organize some biking trips across Cambodia to raise money to buy bikes for the village, and for continuing education for the children. His vision is to help the children reintegrate back into other local communities with skills to contribute. The children are being raised with a mentality to serve the community and set goals for their own educations.
Seyha is going to prepare for me a short description of the work he is doing, and I will then post it here for all who are interested. This is not a plea for your money...but if you want to be involved in these children's lives, and you do feel like donating money, you can contact myself or Seyha (on Facebook as Seyha Pen) for more information. I know that some of you make monthly or yearly donations to some charity or another. Many of these organizations may be using your money to pay employees; housing, food and per diem for volunteers; equipment; travel expenses; etc... If you want to make a donation straight to the source; that will be used entirely for the children and local communities... I can guarantee this will be a far greater use of your money. The proceeds go to starting new villages like this one and the ability to care for more orphans. I know I sound like those infomercials, but truly a little goes a long way here. Again, I am NOT soliciting money. It's just if you feel inspired and want to participate. It's a really good investment compared to many other organizations that are questionable and less personal. If you want to get involved physically, you can come and volunteer (for free- surprisingly not so common in the world); join a bike tour; or come up with a new idea for fund raising. Let me or Seyha know if you want to collaborate or generate ideas.
I will be posting lots of picture of the trip to the village on Facebook so check it out!!! You will fall in love with these faces :-)
Today was such a day of inspiration, motivation , heart-bursting-open gratitude, and visions of our potential for co-creating a change on this planet. Things are moving and shifting in my inner Universe and.... Ideas are forming...
;-)
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Angkor Wat and an ode to the tuk tuk man
We rose bright and early this morning for our tour of the famous Angkor Wat ruins...
The grounds for the temple are giant- a few miles at least in diameter. There are maybe 10 temples, more or less, and through the day we visited about 6 of them. We hired a tuk tuk to drive us around to each temple, and then you walk from the road into the site. I don't think it's possible to make it around to all these ruins by walking unless you have a week! I think even with the driving we must have walked several miles. So worth every penny, every aching muscle, every minute!
It is incomprehensible to me how these temples were created, with such elaborate detail and artistic fervor. These grand structures are covered in beautiful etchings and reliefs of deities, decorations and pictorial stories. Every stone laid of many thousands of stones...a work of art. Perfection. I can only believe these people were far more advanced than they are believed to be...or they had help from star beings. (I'm serious). Truly magnificent, the most incredible ruins I have seen yet.
The energy of the place was something nearly tangible and wholly/Holy sacred. Of all days, this day was relatively cool and cloudy...and with the participation of jungle birds flying around the temple peaks, the energy was delivered in a mysterious and mystical fashion. I loved this (and not just because it was cooler), but because it really brought an austere depth to the experience.
I had the continuous strong desire to know what the ruins looked like when they were first built. To see them built; know the people then; their culture; the land...a powerful moment spent in this sacred space...really very grateful for this experience.
Our tuk tuk driver was a sweetheart. Very kind and gentle. He brought us water which he kept chilled in a cooler and shared some stories of life in Cambodia. He has lived his whole life in Siem Riep; has not left once. He spent 4 years working in a hotel, making $17/month, to save up money to fulfill his dream of becoming a tuk tuk driver. His name is Hour ("How"), and he is an honest, hard-working, and honorable man. Once again, we are blessed with the opportunity to connect with a beautiful soul.
Our day was complete with the indulgence in our daily ice cream cone; a little foot reflexology; and my first professional manicure. Kind of like the other end of the spectrum, but absolutely heaven after being on our feet all day!
The grounds for the temple are giant- a few miles at least in diameter. There are maybe 10 temples, more or less, and through the day we visited about 6 of them. We hired a tuk tuk to drive us around to each temple, and then you walk from the road into the site. I don't think it's possible to make it around to all these ruins by walking unless you have a week! I think even with the driving we must have walked several miles. So worth every penny, every aching muscle, every minute!
It is incomprehensible to me how these temples were created, with such elaborate detail and artistic fervor. These grand structures are covered in beautiful etchings and reliefs of deities, decorations and pictorial stories. Every stone laid of many thousands of stones...a work of art. Perfection. I can only believe these people were far more advanced than they are believed to be...or they had help from star beings. (I'm serious). Truly magnificent, the most incredible ruins I have seen yet.
The energy of the place was something nearly tangible and wholly/Holy sacred. Of all days, this day was relatively cool and cloudy...and with the participation of jungle birds flying around the temple peaks, the energy was delivered in a mysterious and mystical fashion. I loved this (and not just because it was cooler), but because it really brought an austere depth to the experience.
I had the continuous strong desire to know what the ruins looked like when they were first built. To see them built; know the people then; their culture; the land...a powerful moment spent in this sacred space...really very grateful for this experience.
Our tuk tuk driver was a sweetheart. Very kind and gentle. He brought us water which he kept chilled in a cooler and shared some stories of life in Cambodia. He has lived his whole life in Siem Riep; has not left once. He spent 4 years working in a hotel, making $17/month, to save up money to fulfill his dream of becoming a tuk tuk driver. His name is Hour ("How"), and he is an honest, hard-working, and honorable man. Once again, we are blessed with the opportunity to connect with a beautiful soul.
Our day was complete with the indulgence in our daily ice cream cone; a little foot reflexology; and my first professional manicure. Kind of like the other end of the spectrum, but absolutely heaven after being on our feet all day!
Friday, February 17, 2012
True Radiance
It won't be easy to put into words how profoundly beautiful these Khmers (Cambodians) are...but I will try. I am absolutely high off of their energy. Before I came on this trip, my grandfather asked me why I was traveling; what was my purpose. There are many reasons, but the
First is to see, feel and experience for myself what the world is like. If a person has never been here, there is just no way to explain in words the experience of connecting with beings from a culture so different from our own; of how they FEEL when you are with them. Cambodians have been through so much in recent history; some of the most horrific acts in humanity...and yet I have never met a more open, joyful, kind, friendly, loving and playful people. They come to you, not shrouded in stories; not full of fear, doubt, pride, mistrust, skepticism...as many in our culture do. They are not walking around in their own worlds, in thoughts, planning their days, theirs lives.... They are simple. And completely present. Every person you pass will meet your eyes and smile so warmly right into your soul. They are always laughing; so happy just being. It's so easy to connect with them..we have met so many, and it is the same with every single one we meet. No matter male, female; 6 or 60. ALWAYS a smile, always Love. Their energy radiates a sense of peace...despite all they have been through. They have taken the time to teach themselves English, and can't wait to practice with you...and a hug is always just a moment away.
As I walked down the street tonight on my way home...I was reflecting on how wonderful I felt just from this experience of connecting with these people. I could have been walking through a sea of garbage and it wouldn't have mattered...this love is the essence of being open and present with all we meet...this is the miracle of the world. This is what life is all about.
Today I bow down to the people of this country for being such inspiring and radiant beings......living the loving...
First is to see, feel and experience for myself what the world is like. If a person has never been here, there is just no way to explain in words the experience of connecting with beings from a culture so different from our own; of how they FEEL when you are with them. Cambodians have been through so much in recent history; some of the most horrific acts in humanity...and yet I have never met a more open, joyful, kind, friendly, loving and playful people. They come to you, not shrouded in stories; not full of fear, doubt, pride, mistrust, skepticism...as many in our culture do. They are not walking around in their own worlds, in thoughts, planning their days, theirs lives.... They are simple. And completely present. Every person you pass will meet your eyes and smile so warmly right into your soul. They are always laughing; so happy just being. It's so easy to connect with them..we have met so many, and it is the same with every single one we meet. No matter male, female; 6 or 60. ALWAYS a smile, always Love. Their energy radiates a sense of peace...despite all they have been through. They have taken the time to teach themselves English, and can't wait to practice with you...and a hug is always just a moment away.
As I walked down the street tonight on my way home...I was reflecting on how wonderful I felt just from this experience of connecting with these people. I could have been walking through a sea of garbage and it wouldn't have mattered...this love is the essence of being open and present with all we meet...this is the miracle of the world. This is what life is all about.
Today I bow down to the people of this country for being such inspiring and radiant beings......living the loving...
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Cambodia - "come-bow-to-ya"
After a much needed goodnight sleep, we began our day with a good ole American breakfast. Scrambled eggs, super crispy hashbrowns, a grilled tomato and a fruit smoothie. Was one of the tastiest breakfasts...
We set off for the day with no plans and found a trail of intrigue and fun. A multitude of art in the form statues and temples. Even the local elemtary school is easily confused with a
magnificent temple. We laid down flowers at the foot of an alter; lit incense with a prayer; and set caged birds free ($1 sets two birds free...an attraction I am stilling feeling into. Pay the money and support the practice/happily save the birds and set them free?? I set them free.)
Our destination was the jasmine house where we had read they have volunteer opportunities at a local orphanage. When we arrived, we met the local young man working there who spoke impeccable English. The volunteering is more of a long term deal and so didn't work out.. But we did get a chance to talk to this man and he was truly an inspiration. He is dedicating his life to serving local villages; fund raising for them; organizing volunteer opportunities; and donating goods such as bicycles. A true philanthropist, and immensely kind individual. Was a pleasure to meet him.
We spent the afternoon wandering around the supermarket, checking out all the local foods. We accidentally ate an ice cream cone on the way out.. Oops! There were so many new favors it was hard to choose! Tiramisu, hazelnut, blueberry, latte...!! I settled on one made with coconut sugar instead of real sugar and it had a delicious caramel flavor... We might just have to accidentally pass by there again...;-)
Did I mention how hot it is here??? Supposedly it's the relatively cool season, getting progressively hotter in March and intolerable in April... Really? It gets hotter? I usually have quite a tolerance for heat, but it's so humid and not a lick of a breeze. That high end room with air con seems a distant memory...still sweating at 5 am!
This evening we find ourselves sampling some local flavor. Well...not including the popcorn we found at a street vendor :) . We plan to end our night with something we haven't done in a loooonggg time...a massage!!! What??? It's a healthy addiction! Besides, this one is from the blind of Cambodia. They can't see and yet...they can!
The local tradition when saying thank you is a very elegant bow with hands in prayer position. It is done with much more intention than in Thailand and is whelmingly graceful. In honor of this I am calling this country "come bow to ya"...and bow to them I most certainly do.
We set off for the day with no plans and found a trail of intrigue and fun. A multitude of art in the form statues and temples. Even the local elemtary school is easily confused with a
magnificent temple. We laid down flowers at the foot of an alter; lit incense with a prayer; and set caged birds free ($1 sets two birds free...an attraction I am stilling feeling into. Pay the money and support the practice/happily save the birds and set them free?? I set them free.)
Our destination was the jasmine house where we had read they have volunteer opportunities at a local orphanage. When we arrived, we met the local young man working there who spoke impeccable English. The volunteering is more of a long term deal and so didn't work out.. But we did get a chance to talk to this man and he was truly an inspiration. He is dedicating his life to serving local villages; fund raising for them; organizing volunteer opportunities; and donating goods such as bicycles. A true philanthropist, and immensely kind individual. Was a pleasure to meet him.
We spent the afternoon wandering around the supermarket, checking out all the local foods. We accidentally ate an ice cream cone on the way out.. Oops! There were so many new favors it was hard to choose! Tiramisu, hazelnut, blueberry, latte...!! I settled on one made with coconut sugar instead of real sugar and it had a delicious caramel flavor... We might just have to accidentally pass by there again...;-)
Did I mention how hot it is here??? Supposedly it's the relatively cool season, getting progressively hotter in March and intolerable in April... Really? It gets hotter? I usually have quite a tolerance for heat, but it's so humid and not a lick of a breeze. That high end room with air con seems a distant memory...still sweating at 5 am!
This evening we find ourselves sampling some local flavor. Well...not including the popcorn we found at a street vendor :) . We plan to end our night with something we haven't done in a loooonggg time...a massage!!! What??? It's a healthy addiction! Besides, this one is from the blind of Cambodia. They can't see and yet...they can!
The local tradition when saying thank you is a very elegant bow with hands in prayer position. It is done with much more intention than in Thailand and is whelmingly graceful. In honor of this I am calling this country "come bow to ya"...and bow to them I most certainly do.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Kambuchea
Just when I thought I couldn't love Asia anymore....I came to Cambodia!
30 hours of the smoothest travel I have ever had in a foreign country. 12 different legs, 12 modes of transport...by scooter, foot, boat, taxi, bus, train, tuk tuk, minivan, and rickshaw. Not a hitch in the gitalong, not a bump in the road. We arrived at our destination around 4:30 this afternoon, and found our hotel to be just as it looked in the photos. We were surprised to find a place this decent, with our own room; own bathroom; separate beds; safe, clean and very cozy... For a mere $2/nt!!! (Ahem, thats only $60/month rent...). I have no idea how they can afford to build such places at this rate..?? We are blessed and grateful!
We wasted no time in hopping into the town mix to explore. Cambodians are just as beautiful as Thais... Even more social and friendly, speaking far more English than their neighbors. So much laughter, sparkles in thier eyes, a playful swing in their step and humor in their actions. They come as open beings and it is easier to connect with them than the Thais. We are in heaven, and I'm trying to figure out how to bring a few of these kids in my backpack...
Our first adventure out began with a ginormous coconut! Three times as big as I have ever seen. We payed about 50cents for it and split it. It was almost endless and soooo satisfying after our long travels.
We found a night market and walked around, and had a Cambodian pedicure (see my FB photos)... Which is sticking your feet in a fish tank and letting the fish eat your dead skin off!! I can't even describe how strange this felt and how hard it was to keep my feet in the water at first...This was a terrific experience!!!
We enjoyed our first Cambodian meal which was divine, and wandered the streets soaking up the
Magic.....ahhhhhh......madly in Love!!!
30 hours of the smoothest travel I have ever had in a foreign country. 12 different legs, 12 modes of transport...by scooter, foot, boat, taxi, bus, train, tuk tuk, minivan, and rickshaw. Not a hitch in the gitalong, not a bump in the road. We arrived at our destination around 4:30 this afternoon, and found our hotel to be just as it looked in the photos. We were surprised to find a place this decent, with our own room; own bathroom; separate beds; safe, clean and very cozy... For a mere $2/nt!!! (Ahem, thats only $60/month rent...). I have no idea how they can afford to build such places at this rate..?? We are blessed and grateful!
We wasted no time in hopping into the town mix to explore. Cambodians are just as beautiful as Thais... Even more social and friendly, speaking far more English than their neighbors. So much laughter, sparkles in thier eyes, a playful swing in their step and humor in their actions. They come as open beings and it is easier to connect with them than the Thais. We are in heaven, and I'm trying to figure out how to bring a few of these kids in my backpack...
Our first adventure out began with a ginormous coconut! Three times as big as I have ever seen. We payed about 50cents for it and split it. It was almost endless and soooo satisfying after our long travels.
We found a night market and walked around, and had a Cambodian pedicure (see my FB photos)... Which is sticking your feet in a fish tank and letting the fish eat your dead skin off!! I can't even describe how strange this felt and how hard it was to keep my feet in the water at first...This was a terrific experience!!!
We enjoyed our first Cambodian meal which was divine, and wandered the streets soaking up the
Magic.....ahhhhhh......madly in Love!!!
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Thanking and appreciating beautiful beings
Before leaving this mystical piece of land in the south pacific, a wealth of Love and gratitude to beloved new friends and family...Beverly, Dia, and Raphael. It's been a breath of sweet air; a fertile environment for growth; a richness of the Heart.....A sincere bow to you all. Your good/god-ness has been received. Love and thanks my beautiful reflections!
Monday, February 13, 2012
The end of chapter one
Koh Phangan...magical island...a time of healing, reconnecting, and relaxing. We came, we saw, we ate a lot of coconuts and thai food :-). Its been a time of indulging in yoga, massage, sun, food, and lazing our days away (hence not much blogging). Blessed, much needed time of rest.
We've been in Thailand almost one month already.. And that means our visas are expiring! Tomorrow we leave for a 30 hour journey into Cambodia. We will take a scooter to the ferry, to a bus up to bangkok; a taxi to the train station; train near to the border; taxi to the border; taxi to the bus station on the other side of the border; bus to Siem Reap; and get a ride to our hostel. Somewhere in all of that traveling is a story...
So the next adventure begins at the close of the first great Asian adventure...and the saga will continue. You will all be coming with me, but thankfully for you, withou the 30 hour journey!
Next stop, the famous Ankor Wat in Cambodia!
We've been in Thailand almost one month already.. And that means our visas are expiring! Tomorrow we leave for a 30 hour journey into Cambodia. We will take a scooter to the ferry, to a bus up to bangkok; a taxi to the train station; train near to the border; taxi to the border; taxi to the bus station on the other side of the border; bus to Siem Reap; and get a ride to our hostel. Somewhere in all of that traveling is a story...
So the next adventure begins at the close of the first great Asian adventure...and the saga will continue. You will all be coming with me, but thankfully for you, withou the 30 hour journey!
Next stop, the famous Ankor Wat in Cambodia!
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Revisiting The Elephants
Everything we perceive is a reflection of ourselves. Our opinions are shaped by our inner world and by observing our experiences of life we can come to know ourselves. By facing what makes us uncomfortable, angry, afraid... We meet our deep inner fears and feelings. When we avoid what makes us uncomfortable, we avoid seeing ourselves.
What happens when we stop running away? When we stop hiding?
Have you ever looked someone in the eyes... And felt like looking away? Probably all of us, all the time. Why does it make us so uncomfortable to look someone in the eyes? What is it that happens inside of us?... We begin to see ourselves. Our deepest fears. What happens if we dont look away?... At first it will be very uncomfortable, but just observe this. Inevitably feelings, thoughts will surface. Just observe. When we stay with the discomfort, those feelings arise, and then leave us and we are left just a little bit more liberated from fear.
What happens if we meet the whole world this way? If we surrender into what is happening, without turning away...without judging it or wanting it to be different?.... What would it feel like to be content in every moment, regardless of the situation? Would we then be Free???
I went back to visit the elephants. A strong metaphor of my fears. A place I never wanted to go again. I went to the elephant and I looked in her eyes. It was not the elephants sadness I saw; not her enslavement. My own. I was sad for them because it was not how I wanted their life to be. And it was a reflection of my own enslavement to the mind, to emotion. I saw my thoughts and feelings projected onto the elephant and I recognized them as my own. As I looked into the infinity of those eyes, I stopped just to feel what came up inside of me. I felt into the uncomfortability, the fears and sadness and just let them be... Until it disappeared and I felt as tranquil as a still pond. The elephant then reflected this stillness back to me.
When we look into another's eyes, we merge with them. It requires letting go of the idea that we are separate from them. We must become vulnerable and expose our eternal selves... And then we will be able to see ourselves in everyone, and everything...
What happens when we stop running away? When we stop hiding?
Have you ever looked someone in the eyes... And felt like looking away? Probably all of us, all the time. Why does it make us so uncomfortable to look someone in the eyes? What is it that happens inside of us?... We begin to see ourselves. Our deepest fears. What happens if we dont look away?... At first it will be very uncomfortable, but just observe this. Inevitably feelings, thoughts will surface. Just observe. When we stay with the discomfort, those feelings arise, and then leave us and we are left just a little bit more liberated from fear.
What happens if we meet the whole world this way? If we surrender into what is happening, without turning away...without judging it or wanting it to be different?.... What would it feel like to be content in every moment, regardless of the situation? Would we then be Free???
I went back to visit the elephants. A strong metaphor of my fears. A place I never wanted to go again. I went to the elephant and I looked in her eyes. It was not the elephants sadness I saw; not her enslavement. My own. I was sad for them because it was not how I wanted their life to be. And it was a reflection of my own enslavement to the mind, to emotion. I saw my thoughts and feelings projected onto the elephant and I recognized them as my own. As I looked into the infinity of those eyes, I stopped just to feel what came up inside of me. I felt into the uncomfortability, the fears and sadness and just let them be... Until it disappeared and I felt as tranquil as a still pond. The elephant then reflected this stillness back to me.
When we look into another's eyes, we merge with them. It requires letting go of the idea that we are separate from them. We must become vulnerable and expose our eternal selves... And then we will be able to see ourselves in everyone, and everything...
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Magical manifestation
We decided not to venture over to the east side of the island because there is no way to book a room online and with the full moon party coming up they are likely to be full. To get there you need to take a boat taxi, and lugging our backpacks over there just seems like too much for the risk of not finding a place. So.... We set out today to scout for the perfect place to nest ourselves over the next couple weeks. We went to visit a girl friend of ours from holland, and check her place out. It was beautiful! Brand new, very earthy and elegant. They don't have much business because they are new and don't have a website yet. Well...the rooms normally go for about $75/nt, but we worked a deal for 2 weeks in which we pay $25/nt! And that is split between us. It was a mutually beneficial deal as they really need business and we couldnt afford the actual price. This place is incredible... Right on the beach, swimming pool, and the design is stunning. Large bungalows and huge bathrooms. It's in a great location and close to terrific food. This place would easily cost $300-$400/nt in the states... We have been celebrating our luck all day and counting our infinite blessings.
We spent the afternoon playing beach volleyball...ahhhhhh.....
We spent the afternoon playing beach volleyball...ahhhhhh.....
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Today's Meditation:
What is the difference between a "thinking being" and a "feeling being." ("being" loosely meaning "person")?
What is your approach in answering this question? ie- are you thinking about it or feeling into it???
What is your approach in answering this question? ie- are you thinking about it or feeling into it???
Birthday and break-fast
We finished our fast this morning! Papaya and bee pollen for breakfast. Was the perfect way to start Alesha's birthday. We packed up our things and moved to another bungalow about 100 ft up the hill. The view is of another part of the island and high enough to see miles of coastline. We will only be here a couple days before heading to the east side of the island.
We decided to rent a scooter again for the day and go explore the island for Alesha's birthday. We found a good deal on a scooter, cheaper than anywhere else in town. We soon found out why. She starts up soft and smooth, but growls when she runs and tops out about 30mph. She's an older model, I guess, and we had our fair share of laughs trying to coax her up some steep hills. Alesha ended up having to walk up the hills while I got a running start and went as fast as I could up the hill. The last hundred yards I had to "flinstone" it by running my feet on the ground while maxing the speed. It was pretty hilarious. I guess you get what you pay for!
We had lunch at an organic macrobiotic restaurant where they made us a perfect fast breaking meal. It was divine and took us an hour and a half to eat a small portion, chewing our food carefully so as to aid our digestion which has been inactive for a week.
We spent the day driving around, checking out some Eco constructed bungalows; walking around "downtown"; and driving to Haad Rin, which turned out to be like the "spring break in panama city" scene. Much younger crowd; party beach scene; lots of bars and shops... Was fun for about five minutes. Was actually really good to experience this part of the island too...must admit, I felt a little old? Or maybe just clear to have outgrown that lifestyle...
The birthday night ended with fruit smoothies and... You guessed it! Thai massages! Was a fantastic fun day!! We also managed to manifest some sunshine and no rain on a forecasted week of only thunderstorms... Birthday magic!
Happy birthday everyone!
We decided to rent a scooter again for the day and go explore the island for Alesha's birthday. We found a good deal on a scooter, cheaper than anywhere else in town. We soon found out why. She starts up soft and smooth, but growls when she runs and tops out about 30mph. She's an older model, I guess, and we had our fair share of laughs trying to coax her up some steep hills. Alesha ended up having to walk up the hills while I got a running start and went as fast as I could up the hill. The last hundred yards I had to "flinstone" it by running my feet on the ground while maxing the speed. It was pretty hilarious. I guess you get what you pay for!
We had lunch at an organic macrobiotic restaurant where they made us a perfect fast breaking meal. It was divine and took us an hour and a half to eat a small portion, chewing our food carefully so as to aid our digestion which has been inactive for a week.
We spent the day driving around, checking out some Eco constructed bungalows; walking around "downtown"; and driving to Haad Rin, which turned out to be like the "spring break in panama city" scene. Much younger crowd; party beach scene; lots of bars and shops... Was fun for about five minutes. Was actually really good to experience this part of the island too...must admit, I felt a little old? Or maybe just clear to have outgrown that lifestyle...
The birthday night ended with fruit smoothies and... You guessed it! Thai massages! Was a fantastic fun day!! We also managed to manifest some sunshine and no rain on a forecasted week of only thunderstorms... Birthday magic!
Happy birthday everyone!
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