Soon after landing in Budapest, a friend and I were promptly held in one of several contiguous rooms. People from other flights kept arriving, ultimately packing us in like sardines. One of the more curious souls decided to go talk to the well-armed security guards. Apparently we were under a lockdown due to a bomb threat and we were being held until security until bomb sniffing dogs had made a careful assessment of the situation. After about … [Read more...]
Phu Quoc in 72 Hours: Sun, Sea & Serenity
The island of Phu Quoc is located in the Gulf of Thailand, located closer to the Cambodia border than the Vietnam border. It is an extremely popular and family friendly destination for tourists due to the fact that unlike mainland Vietnam which requires visas for many nationalities, Phu Quoc offers a visa exemption for citizens of numerous countries. And it is also appealing for its weather, beaches and affordable prices. From Bangkok its an … [Read more...]
The Swimming Hole
Every day around 5pm I jump on the old Honda Click scooter with the hello kitty decoration on the rubber floor boards and ride 5 mins to the only sizable watering hole in the area. This is both mental therapy, a refreshing respite from the heat and simultaneous physical therapy. Life revolves around this water, in a part of the country where during the dry season its hard to find much here. The pool is a small dam, a place where you would … [Read more...]
Taipei in a Flash: A Whirlwind Adventure Worth Remembering
A quick journey to Taipei was not meant to be. Rather than get up with the chickens at 430am in the Thai village I am staying in to catch a van to Suvarnabhumi Airport to catch an 11am flight, I opted to take a a van into Bangkok a day early at a reasonable 3pm departure. I didn't catch much sleep that night due to three women next door partying like it was December 31, 1999. The day of my flight, I left my hotel at 8am for the airport. The … [Read more...]
The Snowbird’s Complete Guide to Seasonal Vehicle Transport
It is that time of year, when those in the northern Hemisphere (myself included) start thinking about migrating to warmer climes for the winter. For me it's from California to Thailand. This involves a couple of long flights and some invariable jet lag. But for many others in the U.S. or Canada in terms of this seasonal migration, there are many more logistics involved. These snowbirds go beyond packing winter coats and sunscreen. One of the … [Read more...]
Whispers of History: Exploring Reims, France and Its Resting Place
During my latest visit to Reims I stopped by Taittinger to see their historic caves and imbibe in some delicious Champagne including the latest release of their flagship bottling, Comtes de Champagne. The history of this site is overwhelming. Saint-Nicaise, the bishop of Reims was killed in the 5th century and was buried here. In 1229 an abbey was built by the Benedictine monks over Saint-Nicaise’s gravesite and to house his relics. The abbey was … [Read more...]
East Coast Escapade: A Whirlwind Adventure
I caught a red eye from California to JFK in New York but before I left, our flight was delayed 90 minutes due to crew who had not yet arrived at the airport. This and other delays have plagued nearly most of my flights this year - although this wasn't as bad as sitting on the tarmac in Germany earlier in the year for nearly 6 hours for maintenance issues and then having to go back to the gate because the flight was ultimately canceled. And … [Read more...]
Slow travel in the Caribbean: Where to stay, what to savor, and how to disconnect
The Caribbean is one of my favorite regions on the planet to travel; the best trip to this part of the world is one where your pace is slowed considerably and your time is spent in the moment. On more than one occasion, regardless of the country, I heard the phrase, 'island time'; this lifestyle ethos is built around a no-hurry vibe and a pace focused on relaxation. And in addition, the region is known for its spectacular beaches, diversity of … [Read more...]
Seattle in a Snap: Argosy Cruises & Blueberry Bliss
Finding ourselves in Seattle midweek, we opted for two distinctly Seattle and Washington activities; a Harbor Cruise in Seattle on Argosy Cruises and blueberry picking (and grazing) at several U-pick blueberry farms near Everitt. Departures for the Argosy cruises are from Pier 54 along Seattle's waterfront. You will want to arrive at least 30 minutes early to guarantee a good seat, weather permitting on the top deck. As you board, you will … [Read more...]
Penang Hill or Bust & the Lights of Kek Lok Si Temple
My friend dropped me off at the base of Penang Hill. He had strongly recommended I climb this in the early morning, but the night before we were out until nearly midnight enjoying the Chinese New Year festivities. Borrowing his umbrella, a lifesaver from the hot tropical sunshine, I set out on the Heritage Trail. This path, founded in 1890, led nearly straight up the mountain, climbing some nearly 800 meters to the top. It followed the funicular … [Read more...]
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