http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1 daily 0.75 2017-11-19 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/2017/11/19/pleasant-provincial-fare monthly 0.5 2017-11-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1511090075355-RJ2AAGIKCE18XCI490OR/provincialfare_lowres1.jpg .FOOD - Pleasing Provincial Fare Martin exploring the local produce on offer at our favorite farmer’s market in Aix-en-Provence (Sept 8). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1511090093531-6K3CK7Z92VK54YEAN0JI/provincialfare_lowres2.jpg .FOOD - Pleasing Provincial Fare It doesn’t get better than a September farmers' market in the South of France! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1511090102843-JJB32JMG9F20MPOO54YR/provincialfare_lowres3.jpg .FOOD - Pleasing Provincial Fare And voila! The finished product of La Salade du Marché - we hope you enjoy! http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/2017/8/2/catching-up-over-cantonese monthly 0.5 2017-08-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501682689325-FS4JM0R2TYA9M4CPNJTI/lowres_hongkong1.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese After arriving to Hong Kong, we made our way to Lin Heung Teahouse for a late dinner of traditional Cantonese food (June 9). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501682744457-EXXLPMYQHYJAU5U0LWVQ/lowres_hongkong2.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese A meat heavy meal, one of our favorite dishes was the restaurant's crispy pork. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501682755601-GG0WAGIO0JMOWAUH3DRV/lowres_hongkong3.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese Better than our NYC take out, the beef with vegetables was another dinner hit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501682786561-5PG5AGP95D2J8V2P05I7/lowres_hongkong5.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese We fueled up for the day at trendy Winton's, coffeehouse by day, bar by night (June 10). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501682770269-BUGJKM214A8XCF7C9DMG/lowres_hongkong4.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese The tiny coffee shop is simply designed with a timeless charm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501685460326-SLNA3OBZ7SFTMTCWH2PC/lowres_hongkong6.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese On our way to the ferry port, we walked through well-kept Harbour Park, which with all its activity reminded us of New York's Westside Highway Hudson River Park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501682809176-N1BV0GOZ1MXWX5HNAUP9/lowres_hongkong7.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese The Park also provided excellent views of Kowloon's skyline. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501682842805-OPKHRWZN54FZ1NK7NIAW/lowres_hongkong9.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese Once we made it to Kowloon, we wandered through the stacks and shops of Eslite bookstore. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501682851588-0ANW60USTR0P1A1IJX12/lowres_hongkong10.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese Besides books, Eslite houses a variety of in-store shops, everything from leather goods and stationary to planting supplies and bonsai. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501682831938-Z9S7ER33P2X42R6SSEND/lowres_hongkong8.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese Throughout the multi-level bookstore, there are many places to sit and enjoy a book or periodical with commanding views of Hong Kong Island. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501682920257-13RQ2OWYXA57AS3KXYN6/lowres_hongkong11.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese In the afternoon, we took the ferry back across Victoria Harbour to meet up with friends for lunch in the Wan Chai area. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501682937624-YBH4P46Q7GKVRSLTQ7G5/lowres_hongkong12.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese First stop, Morty's Delicatessen, where we dined with Angus and JJ over big bowls chopped salads. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501682951537-QSYZIFBZJ5TNY1ONXVTT/lowres_hongkong13.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese Then it was on to Elephant Grounds for their coveted cold brew coffees (both spots were designed by JJ). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501682970587-725Y0MOYDB5ZFM6L5HFL/lowres_hongkong14.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese To cap off the fun day, we toasted high above the skyline at Upper House's chic bar. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501684892505-5Q388S7M4OKN2PIC90FN/lowres_hongkong-add1.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese Saturday night dinner with friends at glam Mott 32, which included the (gluten-free) lobster dumpling, a highlight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501684904711-O1MMCY2P3HDPDRVEVOX5/lowres_hongkong_add2.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese The meal's pièce de résistance was definitely the whole roast goose. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501684922986-M8I3YEYBSP6EK9ZEOE9S/lowres_hongkong-add3.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese Trey and Alethea catching up in Nik's Upper House hotel suite post-dinner. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683019729-TO9DCV1JHBSCXFB7SF86/lowres_hongkong15.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese We started our Sunday at very local Sam Hui Yat for traditional morning dim sum (June 11). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683031397-77LZJOUBIWCQOMKOANVB/lowres_hongkong16.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese Our favorite travel blog, Migrationology, had some food recommendations that we conveyed to the staff with the help of some locals. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683040798-72AD2VG3V25DL7C90CTX/lowres_hongkong17.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese Nothing like oodles of steamed dumplings to kick-start your day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683049270-C1MWL4HTW0UBNKBQ8X7H/lowres_hongkong18.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese We also enjoyed the traditional lo mai gai, which comes wrapped up in steamed lotus leaves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683062934-NHFNIYZNEA8GBNSC4CIK/lowres_hongkong19.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese Opening the leaves revealed steamed sticky rice with chicken, Chinese sausage, mushrooms and scallions inside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683077389-N6VYB9FKCCJI4GKP7FUA/lowres_hongkong20.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese The friendly (and steaming) dumpling man at Sam Hui Yat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683112697-FTK4E8IU8LDG33U82CM1/lowres_hongkong21.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese A typical view of Hong Kong, a true vertical city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683143694-E09QI3B97TZ3IZUZ5BY4/lowres_hongkong22.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese Trey and Nik ride the Central - Mid-Levels outdoor escalator, the longest moving sidewalk system in the world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683168535-0LJ1PVHRJSRKUDMZ5XUO/lowres_hongkong23.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese The view looking into the city as we crossed into Hong Kong Park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683192677-YL56OY6KBXN0ZPTUMWFU/lowres_hongkong24.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese Because of the sticky heat of Hong Kong, many commutes around the city take travelers through air conditioned shopping malls and covered walkways. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683253850-FIV8MI44H4QIGHT7JP84/lowres_hongkong25.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese After an afternoon of walking (and sweating), we wanted to fill our bellies with the famous Mak's Noodles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683269024-5C7LVW896FPYB4EKJ154/lowres_hongkong26.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese Our man, the noodle maker, at Mak's. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683283847-BJN4B0W9ULTX5GA00O05/lowres_hongkong27.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese The brisket noodles at Mak's are the restaurant's claim to fame. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683296267-GRCIDNF991MSUL5R4GUT/lowres_hongkong28.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese After so much meat and noodles in so little time, we opted for a side of delicious greens. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683306611-N5SWZHF40EUOTUFYM05G/lowres_hongkong29.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese In Hong Kong, you either eat or shop, so we opted for more food at the mainstream diner, Tsui Wah. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683316577-R3PSUL0H42TFB7J15NP3/lowres_hongkong30.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese We started with sweet bread, which is grilled toasted topped with sweetened condensed milk. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683326039-J5JC62YRSWSD7ATUVHVC/lowres_hongkong31.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese The chilled okra was a gooey favorite, dipped in the accompanying wasabi soy sauce. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683338042-ROL21CEIHJFV3G55HG7B/lowres_hongkong32.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese And who wouldn't enjoy park chop on top of instant noodles? Felt like being back in college again. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683348350-AQQLR5RXHIMU98R5Y0YB/lowres_hongkong33.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese Patrons of Tsui Wah feasting on traditional Cantonese fare at this modern tea restaurant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683360851-IIEYO861UJXVVSLHZBOG/lowres_hongkong34.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese After dinner, we once again made the trek across Victoria Harbour to watch Hong Kong's popular light show. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683387822-T7WVZEGXC2EPE1TZ5NBQ/lowres_hongkong35.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese The sun setting on Hong Kong as we crossed the water to Kowloon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683462499-CDWQQSLO4JNJB8ZQZ5IV/lowres_hongkong36.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese The city all lit up and its soaring skyscrapers seemingly came to life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501683512376-FM489GSKTEF1FNDJ5NG0/lowres_hongkong37.jpg .FOOD - Catching up Over Cantonese Our final Hong Kong treat, bowls of tofu pudding from Dream Tofa. http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/2017/7/27/deafthwnbofe8wr5rbothzf0behim3 monthly 0.5 2017-07-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501150749253-0TFHDRJINWK2TYJ2B6K8/penang_lowres6.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang Arriving midday in George Town, we headed straight to Joo Hoi Cafe for all the Malay street food delights (April 25). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501150721953-Z46YZSXAV9C588GACYQ4/penang_lowres1.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang First up, rojak salad, which translates to "mixture" of raw fruit and vegetables in a thick dressing of tamarind, sugar, vinegar and salt and topped with sesame seeds. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501150728196-0T7OW0O78EQXFXTKKAZ9/penang_lowres2.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang We tried the traditional Cantonese dish of chee cheong fun, rice noodle rolls with shrimp. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501150733407-2B6VWT28SE6EZ2AF06OJ/penang_lowres3.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang One of the local specialties was seafood popiah, a thin crepe roll with a mix of crab, omelette and fried shallots inside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501150738049-D9O18QYNIR0OHWUD8D19/penang_lowres4.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang We slurped our way through a bowl of piping hot laksa, a spicy noodle soup and another specialty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501150743453-9X4XQ6ZSUURV6B2O6K8C/penang_lowres5.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang Finally, with all the heat (both in the air and on our tongues), we cooled down with a big bowl of chendol, a shaved ice dessert made with green rice noodles, red beans, coconut milk and palm sugar. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501185107636-21QSTVWMBON4NDJSC5VK/malaysia_lowres3.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang George Town's hip Hin Bus Depot is a cool complex of outdoor art, galleries, and of course, delicious food. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501150788371-6YM4I9OWQOMBT2VPVTMJ/penang_lowres7.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang The indoor/outdoor on-site eatery, Buu's Kitchen, offers healthy dining options, smoothies and coffees all day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501150794072-ZNH8M3C97YQ6ATNBS0KM/penang_lowres8.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang Bricklin Cafe Bar, a cozy spot for a coffee and pastry, gets its name from the road on which it sits, previously known as "Brick Kiln." https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501150831839-PLF4WLQAX1EJZN939SGU/penang_lowres12.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang We spent most days here at Wholey Wonder, a yoga studio and whole-foods cafe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501150825846-HGD5BPOW63K41YZWM8QV/penang_lowres11.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang Our favorite dish at Wholey Wonder was the papaya smoothie bowl filled with raw, organic goodness. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501150814783-5R9FVNH7BW1PTN0MF4CF/penang_lowres9.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang With all the healthy eating, we once again hit the streets, this time at the New Lane Hawker Stalls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501150819511-EPG5L6LEZJIPZSRTCK8D/penang_lowres10.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang A favorite was a local version of hokkien mee, an fried egg and rice noodle dish in a spicy broth. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501150910254-1XLBJ4LDO2QV0A16UUBR/penang_lowres13.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang We spent an entire afternoon at China House Penang, a hip complex of eateries, bars, and local arts and products (April 26). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501150917997-G1YBTU3O87PUNYI5NRMI/penang_lowres14.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang At China House, we enjoyed a bento box lunch that included carrot soup, grilled fish, rosemary rice, vegetable salad. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501150923869-YEIH1SE6YBP89O9P3Y32/penang_lowres15.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang More rooms throughout the maze of China House, perfect for coffees and their famous baked goods. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501150982063-VDGEP1ID6JEPB8IKG2ZI/penang_lowres17.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang After China House, we once again hit the streets, this time at the famous Gurney Drive hawker stalls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501150987088-WB38B5TFKSGF015XK9UK/penang_lowres18.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang A dish of Gurney's char kway teow, a Pad Thai-like dish of rice noodles fried with shrimp, green onions, sprouts and egg in a wok. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501188317930-2DIRTGL6R1XK6NWW4QRP/penang_lowres16.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang George Town has a thriving Little India with plenty of tasty food both on the street and in cafes (April 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501151055651-RHT93PTJ3UIN2WKI5TFO/penang_lowres24.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang We chose a restaurant known for its banana leaf rice and chicken curry. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501151034408-9GPXHTZ2DPH4AJY81GXH/penang_lowres21.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang At last, we dared ourselves to try the controversial durian fruit at a stand near our hotel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501151040087-YNACYKDPB8N2JVPVD6TJ/penang_lowres22.jpg .FOOD - Street Eats in Penang And the verdict.... you decide from Trey's face. http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/2017/4/1/hungry-in-hoi-an monthly 0.5 2017-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491034257271-FEJV688AZHY72F28MR52/lowrest_hoiancooking1.jpg .FOOD - Hungry in Hoi An Our cooking class started with a shopping trip to the Hoi An Market where our guide showed us locally grown and sourced products (March 17). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491034453568-1JV0WNZXN621THSRSVZC/lowrest_hoiancooking2.jpg .FOOD - Hungry in Hoi An At the market you can find almost anything for your meal--snout to tail! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491034566603-SM2DO7432GNQ6A747C3C/lowrest_hoiancooking3.jpg .FOOD - Hungry in Hoi An After a short boat ride, we transferred to small row boats that took us to the island class. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491034672950-EEZ29BQVZ1ACRHOLM2B8/lowrest_hoiancooking5.jpg .FOOD - Hungry in Hoi An We started with making the Pho beef broth, which needs several hours to simmer. A key step is to char the shallots and ginger for rich flavor in the broth. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491034896522-B4QVCDR4FIJ7XTGR73G4/lowrest_hoiancooking6.jpg .FOOD - Hungry in Hoi An Once the Pho broth was on, we made an appetizer of fresh spring rolls with pork and shrimp. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491035506882-KT857FTL7OI5KLABZBQG/lowres_hoiancooking12.jpg .FOOD - Hungry in Hoi An We covered beef bones with water and tossed in the ginger, shallots, and other spices to simmer for two hours. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491035028731-R6ES8HY6XA9YV8HY136M/lowrest_hoiancooking7.jpg .FOOD - Hungry in Hoi An The tropical setting for the island cooking class, surrounded by leafy green water coconut palms. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491035112627-BA1B8YO2WAY875ON3DBV/lowrest_hoiancooking8.jpg .FOOD - Hungry in Hoi An To make one of our favorite dishes, Banh Xeo, we learned to flip the rice pancake by tossing in the skillet. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491035167498-4HTU4EETCF6R5NII8K6A/lowrest_hoiancooking9.jpg .FOOD - Hungry in Hoi An Once crispy, we folded the Banh Xeo and stuffed with bean sprouts before rolling in dry rice paper. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491035276743-OHV0W6404YHRJ7J07VML/lowres_hoiancooking10.jpg .FOOD - Hungry in Hoi An Our next dish allowed us to play with our food, creating designs for our Beef Noodle Salad out of cucumber and carrot. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491035473747-Q6YU9KF1FQ0J2ODE6UOJ/lowres_hoiancooking11.jpg .FOOD - Hungry in Hoi An So long, JRNY! The aftermath of gobbling up the tasty Beef Noodle Salad. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491035538364-DKMZV7MML0LSZJLIUL1J/lowres_hoiancooking13.jpg .FOOD - Hungry in Hoi An After briefly cooking the rice noodles for our Pho, we smothered them in bean sprouts, fresh mint and scallions, along with pickled shallot, in anticipation for the steaming beef broth. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491035655145-2SFKTH1A4H5WJSA11MBD/lowres_hoiancooking14.jpg .FOOD - Hungry in Hoi An And voila! Our first attempt at Beef Pho, with a little fish sauce and red chili for flavoring. http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/2017/3/19/amok-in-the-khmer-kitchen monthly 0.5 2017-03-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489977581853-ZDLYF89SSKA55XKD2GIG/lowres_khmercooking2.jpg .FOOD - Amok in the Khmer Kitchen We started our morning with a shopping trip at Boeung Keng Kang Market (March 10). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489977557626-8WI0UJ0UP0OH86WJ3AAY/lowres_khmercooking1.jpg .FOOD - Amok in the Khmer Kitchen Our instructor, Khai, helped us buy the various herbs and spices that we would later use in our cooking (March 10). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489977606456-H014GDXVJ1NMYPATDFIP/lowres_khmercooking3.jpg .FOOD - Amok in the Khmer Kitchen First we made a green mango salad, complete with dried shrimp and basil (March 10). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489977626267-NALDNPJIY7O6S55CPD90/lowres_khmercooking4.jpg .FOOD - Amok in the Khmer Kitchen Ingredients, including shallot, ginger, tumeric, red chili and chopped lemongrass that we'd smash into the curry paste for our traditional Amok (March 10). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489977648363-EKOOYX5NAFKIXRP2YCFF/lowres_khmercooking5.jpg .FOOD - Amok in the Khmer Kitchen The curry paste is complete and ready to mix with coconut milk (March 10). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489977668014-XIEGWUG8FQGONLPA8VAR/lowres_khmercooking6.jpg .FOOD - Amok in the Khmer Kitchen Using two toothpicks, we folded banana leaves to form the bowl in which we'd steam the Amok (March 10). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489977693027-05L6UDVQ7KVD1YI4ZDSV/lowres_khmercooking7.jpg .FOOD - Amok in the Khmer Kitchen We filled our bowls with Amok and raw fish, which would steam for 20 mins to cook (March 10). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489977734211-OT5C5EQ6YT4R2NBNOUR3/lowres_khmercooking9.jpg .FOOD - Amok in the Khmer Kitchen Time to eat! Traditional Amok served with rice and topped with red chili (March 10). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489977721491-RRGNXKXDKHGDBVX8TLY3/lowres_khmercooking8.jpg .FOOD - Amok in the Khmer Kitchen Our new cooking friends hailing from Dubai, Spain and Denmark (March 10). http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/2017/2/25/farming-the-burmese-hills monthly 0.5 2017-02-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094491474-SDGZD8WFZM56SSNRE14Y/trek_lowres18.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills Our 2-day trek through the Shan Hills of Burma led us through several tribal villages and across a whole lot of farmland (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094512709-RSQ33HHW8WEBHX3XQ2AN/trek_lowres1.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills Several of the villages harvested wheat which was neatly gathered and left to dry in the sun for five days (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094536197-N1HFOOWHZ54BENXXTWHB/trek_lowres2.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills On our walk, we saw very little machinery being used in fields but instead livestock powered tools (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094559405-9TE7BYUGW7G3I3HM5L41/trek_lowres3.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills This area was in the middle of dry season with most fields already harvested except for areas near water resources (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094579568-CSBDBM61UT2TAFB2X4SA/trek_lowres4.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills A common sight, rice and red chiles, which are grown in abundance in this area, spread out on canvases to dry in the hot sun (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094591443-0NDXHZ4YQ1SBJRLL0MS6/trek_lowres5.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills We had tea with a village lady who knits everything from scarves to satchels to mobile phone cases, which are then sold at market (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094610012-9WE330PN6T438OKTGBK1/trek_lowres6.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills Work in the villages ranges from working in the fields to weaving bamboo for housing or baskets to cutting firewood for cooking and warmth (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094621286-TOQ9IGQXAN58WKHYYLBP/trek_lowres7.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills Baskets of harvested ginger, another important crop in this area, lined the trails (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094642906-60DLF72GNLSEGLTLJG7O/trek_lowres8.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills Two to three times the size of ginger we see back home, this recently harvested batch will dry before being sold at market (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094706855-L7M5C3YJGZ5LSBXXRRSY/trek_lowres9.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills Local school children played in and around the schoolhouse, waiting for the ice cream man to drive by (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094719189-13IT069WFC2XABSTSFWO/trek_lowres10.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills A beautifully cut, heart-shaped ice cream on a small bamboo stick (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094737825-XYUV0G8BIT8FL645XRIC/trek_lowres11.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills We witnessed much of daily farm life as we passed by on the trail to Inle Lake (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094749610-WB902CXC7S6PAJPDHYI4/trek_lowres12.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills Women returning from the field work (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094763469-LECULLENPN25PUC99YUE/trek_lowres13.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills We saw many burned fields, especially of corn, readying the soil for the next season (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094780553-DGCJ6D3K3KIT3SWSZJOP/trek_lowres14.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills Children take a rest with their father after chopping firewood (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094811630-8W58GBPLD3UIHXQ990KB/trek_lowres15.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills As we ate lunch in Kone-hla village, women sorted red chiles for market (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094832321-TX7V1LUYJCZ01OCI3DSJ/trek_lowres16.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills We saw very few vehicles in the villages but instead livestock being used to haul harvest (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094844335-NPCF41MQ76AOY6EMY81J/trek_lowres19.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills Beautiful tilled fields ready for planting (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094860483-SZLU83P2ZYV5Q5RT0T5R/trek_lowres20.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills Ack! A long green vine snake spotted on the side of the trail (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094928315-3RCSDD9E1UVZU3SRVQ5S/trek_lowres21.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills As we neared Pattu Pauk village, where we would spend the night, we passed local women walking to the well to collect water (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094944131-TTIUHTCZ0307XXXMH3R1/trek_lowres22.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills in Pattu Pauk village, the men stay home to weave large bamboo baskets sold at market for around 3,000 kyat or 2USD (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488094962188-V54V4SXOU297DSUAZNTC/trek_lowres23.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills In the village, teens played a game of chinlone, a popular sport in Myanmar where a woven rattan ball is passed back and forth over a net using only the head or feet (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488095076040-Y7AW4YTEKYIFXP1XZA4I/trek_lowres26.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills After a rest, we departed the village for a short hike to watch sunset, and en route, we passed the local women returning with water (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488095090914-48SXMZHOUZ25B7J8MT8X/trek_lowres27.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills We took in a panoramic view over the fields and hills of Burma as the sun sat on our first day of walking (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488095108849-2ODL8H9VF1F4GOQE1H1F/trek_lowres28.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills Morning life in the village as a women prepares a small fire for warmth (Feb 21). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488095141112-ESZG3MGXZHVLFQ5ADPKQ/trek_lowres29.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills As we sat out on another day of walking, we passed this local man waking up in the sun (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488095171271-HMYQCPWFM6KSZ3PTSDE4/trek_lowres30.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills The closer we got to Inle Lake, the more and more we saw bamboo forests (Feb 21). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488095207838-BQTVKT2OPCH0KUMO6Q0K/trek_lowres31.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills As the sun rose and temperature heated up, the livestock came to life in the hazy fields (Feb 21). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488095255996-353G4QOYFKZ2HO3YBMYW/trek_lowres33.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills "Just over those hills," said our guide (Feb 21). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488095280585-4QMOZJBGW1NGM0ZZT7YX/trek_lowres34.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills Along the way, we often saw piles of wheat, used to supplement the diets of livestock during the dry season (Feb 21). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488095291742-PJ94XWKHCGVJ4C28TF7C/trek_lowres35.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills We spent a moment with a gaggle of young mothers catching up by the trail (Feb 21). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488095302288-RG4G1Y5MU1OI5OG02UUE/trek_lowres36.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills The mother was particularly proud of her new child and wanted to see the pictures that had been shot (Feb 21). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488095316325-ZRAF6UOZCLV78AYCQGT1/trek_lowres37.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills Near the end of our walk, we spotted this family working together to collect and chop firewood (Feb 21). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488095327402-WF5N12DP5JHPQ93ILA28/trek_lowres38.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills Full of laughter and joy, the matron of the family was keeping them on task (Feb 21). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488095344416-FBM7AHKSHZL1S5OGK3W0/trek_lowres39.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills We passed a controlled (and hot!) fire used for agriculture and land management by the Burmese people for centuries (Feb 21). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488095637514-9TPZMVTX95DPF0FRQQFN/trek_lowres40.jpg .FOOD - Farming the Burmese Hills Finally! We arrived to Inle Lake where we were ferried to our hotel in the north (Feb 21). http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/2017/2/25/teaching-amongst-temples monthly 0.5 2017-02-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488078382121-AUOD0RQ1OICBUSDK8Y7X/cuisine2_lowres.jpg .FOOD - Teaching amongst Temples Sanon restaurant, located in Nyaung-U village, is helping to ready marginalized youth for the future of Myanmar (Feb 15). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488078399239-GDF1I7UYADAENKGF0UJ8/cuisine7_lowres.jpg .FOOD - Teaching amongst Temples Sanon teaches students proper cooking techniques as well as hygiene, serving, and other hospitality skills. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488078413260-UFQB3MJJ3IZNFS4X62MH/cuisine_lowres1.jpg .FOOD - Teaching amongst Temples The food is great and service exceptional at Sanon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488078422693-MQVYZXTK2CNH1Z0MCLI4/cuisine4_lowres.jpg .FOOD - Teaching amongst Temples Sanon features a beautiful open-air dining room with shelves full of books on local history and culture. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488078430387-I2CQVOJTBUZ0TOHLGIYC/cuisine3_lowres.jpg .FOOD - Teaching amongst Temples The facilities at Sanon are clean and modern. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488078439600-XTO7JIWJBWK3VZLAA4FM/cuisine8_lowres.jpg .FOOD - Teaching amongst Temples We had to try the nightly Chef's Special, especially at the very affordable price of 5,500 Kyat or 4USD. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488078457197-77QX5HT7HG83PW4ZSVPH/cuisine6_lowres.jpg .FOOD - Teaching amongst Temples The Chef's Special, Indian Lentil Curry with squash, was well presented and delicious. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1488078447902-RLLJN7E7AKXYXCE6OESC/cuisine5_lowres.jpg .FOOD - Teaching amongst Temples We also had to try a local favorite, Shan Khauk Swe, or spicy rice noodles. http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/2017/1/26/friend-of-a-farmers monthly 0.5 2017-01-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485468975733-MUJN3J299LGFRWO0IODP/farmers_lowres2.jpg .FOOD - Friend of a Farmer(s) Our friends, Shane and Ben (pictured, left), founded Puramahoi Fields and sell at the Takaka Village Market every Friday and Saturday... one of the only organic stalls! (Jan 14) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485468978969-ZCUJNHOQEBNMV6JT22HF/farmers_lowres1.jpg .FOOD - Friend of a Farmer(s) The beautiful bounty for sale from Puramahoi Fields. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485468995609-JV72VVRXO92TQ88YFXQJ/farmers_lowres7.jpg .FOOD - Friend of a Farmer(s) The trusty Puramahoi Fields truck, which does everything from delivering veggies to market to moving the chicken coop! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485468981791-V1G1QXE8ZWKAWCSIZP20/farmers_lowres3.jpg .FOOD - Friend of a Farmer(s) Another way to enjoy the offerings of Puramahoi Fields -- their roadside veggie stall just outside the farm gate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485469000134-063J4OQCNWR0SPGC3V2R/farmers_lowres12.jpg .FOOD - Friend of a Farmer(s) The dynamic farming duo -- Shane and Ben -- were an inspiration to us and gracious hosts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485469033146-RGQ4ON1N5MNVBAUUC8O5/farmers_lowres11.jpg .FOOD - Friend of a Farmer(s) Another gorgeous day in Golden Bay with the house that Shane and Ben hand built in the background. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485469054780-L25E6IRT7LXPOLL7YM8S/farmers_lowres4.jpg .FOOD - Friend of a Farmer(s) Puramahoi Fields offers weekly shares of veggie boxes (aka CSAs) to locals and area visitors, many from North America. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485469113518-0SE4FDKZE6T7WNZXEB4A/farmers_lowres8.jpg .FOOD - Friend of a Farmer(s) Shane shows Trey how to harvest basil for that evening's dinner. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485469125044-4NKVLSMJUN7RB7ROSO9U/farmers_lowres9.jpg .FOOD - Friend of a Farmer(s) Puramahoi Fields is growing lots of tomatoes, which do not like the NZ weather, by tying the vines up on trellises to expose to the sun and keep them dry. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485469130603-EIG2UVIXYEGYL5ATST6O/farmers_lowres5.jpg .FOOD - Friend of a Farmer(s) Shane introduces us to the cows of Puramahoi Fields... meet gorgeous Dexter (also the breed). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485469135497-FS7YSIAZ46EJK1AV370T/farmers_lowres10.jpg .FOOD - Friend of a Farmer(s) Puramahoi Fields also provides many of Golden Bay's fabulous restaurants and cafes with organic produce. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485469141077-4F8SVN4EAJ5QNP7MHNCX/farmers_lowres6.jpg .FOOD - Friend of a Farmer(s) Meet the lovely ladies of Puramahoi Fields, who produce fresh eggs daily (even through moulting periods). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485469142861-4ZI2KQDOUTK95WSTMT45/farmers_lowres14.jpg .FOOD - Friend of a Farmer(s) Micro greens are big business in Golden Bay, easier for cafes and restaurants to garnish plates (also, tasty!). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485469144999-3UJ3O2GYRSMW651DWF07/farmers_lowres15.jpg .FOOD - Friend of a Farmer(s) Swiss chard from the fields, which was used on delicious homemade pizzas for dinner. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485469147772-94G6WVCQJPXE3T08QQZY/farmers_lowres13.jpg .FOOD - Friend of a Farmer(s) Martin and Shane back together in Golden Bay after nine years. http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/2017/1/23/digging-for-dinner monthly 0.5 2017-01-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485468761645-Y869QHL0XGOJNDV47CGW/seasidefare_lowres5.jpg .FOOD - Digging for Dinner Trey shows off our dinner finds from the shoreline of Parapara Beach (Golden Bay; Jan 13). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485468751434-KQUN5DLO8HAGIYCSFMJU/seasidefare_lowres3.jpg .FOOD - Digging for Dinner We stumbled up on local Mike who showed up how to dig up our dinner as well as shared insights on the moon cycles and local tides. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485468757045-9WCHW016GC292TQ7GPI4/seasidefare_lowres4.jpg .FOOD - Digging for Dinner Trey digs for dinner, not hard when the beach is exposed during low tide. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485205220974-0OZCL108LPP925EC5V0M/seasidefare_lowres2.jpg .FOOD - Digging for Dinner https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485205189484-14PUSIM70IFEXTROIFEE/seasidefare_lowres1.jpg .FOOD - Digging for Dinner Unexpected dinner find means we have to use our hands as buckets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485468766584-TNX9WAXXVQJWF81Y28Q9/seasidefare_lowres6.jpg .FOOD - Digging for Dinner Rinse clams after soaking in fresh water for 30 minutes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485468770818-ZVDMYWSK4WV22BGFHAYL/seasidefare_lowres7.jpg .FOOD - Digging for Dinner Melt butter then add fresh herbs for flavor (2-3mins). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485468773133-VV00R68BYTIXNM6ACBZQ/seasidefare_lowres8.jpg .FOOD - Digging for Dinner Coat the clams in mixture and then add white wine to cover. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485468777919-8Z3HVNN6E1SETKU59ID2/seasidefare_lowres9.jpg .FOOD - Digging for Dinner Serve in pasta or with toasted garlic bread. http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/2016/12/19/wwoofing-around-the-world-1 monthly 0.5 2016-12-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482164904898-B6XW9LQ7TYPEQ9K8572V/WWOOFlowres7.jpg .FOOD - WWOOFing Around the World https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482164951291-L96XNHQDY18KKQVKA89S/WWOOFlowres1.jpg .FOOD - WWOOFing Around the World https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482165291152-X2EIWLBTHDDC4AGK6ZDN/WWOOFlowres3.jpg .FOOD - WWOOFing Around the World https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482165323330-PDRM8C5YCVM2GWO1OW7E/WWOOFlowres5.jpg .FOOD - WWOOFing Around the World https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482170201908-DGOEOVYGIETBTNUF61K3/WWOOFlowres4.jpg .FOOD - WWOOFing Around the World https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482165616537-N22W35LUCQNDQYQEIJPJ/IMG_1225.JPG .FOOD - WWOOFing Around the World https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482165395105-7YAQZGJ5ASI82GQQA5M3/WWOOFlowres9.jpg .FOOD - WWOOFing Around the World https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482165402263-SZH9Z5YIF7ZHWB9HUY93/WWOOFlowres10.jpg .FOOD - WWOOFing Around the World https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482165403739-TXGT22JI04NUV7J4VNP6/WWOOFlowres8.jpg .FOOD - WWOOFing Around the World https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482165410690-414EHKYEVNTVLU92SNZK/WWOOFlowres11.jpg .FOOD - WWOOFing Around the World http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/2016/12/14/noshin-around-the-christmas-tree monthly 0.5 2016-12-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1481754552911-53X3I1Z0EYTS7KL1O5O8/Christmaslowres1.jpg .FOOD - A Yuletide Farewell https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1481754563400-CTEZ1S1IYZAP822L9V97/Christmaslowres2.jpg .FOOD - A Yuletide Farewell https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1481754573394-9TARWCZCAYTSUHOBY7HH/Christmaslowres3.jpg .FOOD - A Yuletide Farewell https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1481754578861-VNXB7NS82STNS6QA2YJS/Christmaslowres4.jpg .FOOD - A Yuletide Farewell https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1481754585484-I6NNY7Y87SK8IFUFWPM7/Christmaslowres5.jpg .FOOD - A Yuletide Farewell http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/2016/12/1/farm-to-school-table monthly 0.5 2016-12-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480808224230-MWKIKIGTXB7B3HGHLMQV/farmtoschooltablelowres1.jpg .FOOD - From Farm to School Table https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480808236224-79QMQYLA32C76HP3UR8A/farmtoschooltablelowres2.jpg .FOOD - From Farm to School Table https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480808252361-8WX7KZFY9JM1AN7FO0KM/farmtoschooltablelowres3.jpg .FOOD - From Farm to School Table https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480808262892-R1FDLXZ7YVT49ICB9IWO/farmtoschooltablelowres4.jpg .FOOD - From Farm to School Table http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/2016/12/3/7rcg5mn1tfptv9v3hytgki0p6x2806 monthly 0.5 2016-12-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480802615793-WKI4FO77DD8VQKZXDL7K/parislowres1.jpg .FOOD - Les Deux Gourmands a Paris https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480802592852-96T55B3WSBZGHBK0KFVU/parislowres2.jpg .FOOD - Les Deux Gourmands a Paris https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480802752620-SNC4D15L873HJ1KE30MT/parislowres3.jpg .FOOD - Les Deux Gourmands a Paris https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480802847804-FC8KKU9ZKOKLLVW7QTDI/parislowres4.jpg .FOOD - Les Deux Gourmands a Paris https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480802959768-UIJGSV5M3P6E10XM33R4/parislowres5.jpg .FOOD - Les Deux Gourmands a Paris https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480803743300-CRBCBA3LQZ0KR81MTKIV/parislowres6.jpg .FOOD - Les Deux Gourmands a Paris https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480803602914-4KVND1JUKI7O8D5D6N8S/parislowres7.jpg .FOOD - Les Deux Gourmands a Paris https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480803718229-5ZXZYGJH87W9L6LCEZ0L/parislowres8.jpg .FOOD - Les Deux Gourmands a Paris https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480803983601-JHALCLSVXKOJ7PIXWE2S/parislowres9.jpg .FOOD - Les Deux Gourmands a Paris https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480804102526-0C7OC313KVRO2BRRKFDP/parislowres10.jpg .FOOD - Les Deux Gourmands a Paris https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480804170872-G5TSEPED8C04FNVHAAAL/parislowres11.jpg .FOOD - Les Deux Gourmands a Paris https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480804251203-HU3V8S3QMLGWRUGACQSF/parislowres12.jpg .FOOD - Les Deux Gourmands a Paris https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480804319332-0ESXP1M63GEKES25SA35/parislowres13.jpg .FOOD - Les Deux Gourmands a Paris https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480804408553-U6SUJKW9V36D9TNNUW7C/parislowres14.jpg .FOOD - Les Deux Gourmands a Paris http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/2016/12/3/jlrqp00z3tbyz7bh9zf078j73rx9p1 monthly 0.5 2016-12-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480809739160-VC07U915OGSVLCFAJ04M/MykonianMenulowres1.jpg .FOOD - A Mykonian Menu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480809746657-F131UF3PODAHA5P0KBII/MykonianMenulowres2.jpg .FOOD - A Mykonian Menu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480809754604-T2R507YH6GZNZI707WNA/MykonianMenulowres3.jpg .FOOD - A Mykonian Menu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480809762709-XG38IV08G77TTKR6AGA8/MykonianMenulowres4.jpg .FOOD - A Mykonian Menu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480809768149-X9SLE5EJ6MVNEV4B7266/MykonianMenulowres5.jpg .FOOD - A Mykonian Menu http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Myanmar monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Cuisine monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Cooking monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Christmas monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Cambodia monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Hong+Kong monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Recipe monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Penang monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Malaysia monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/George+Town monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Greece monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/New+York+City monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Vietnam monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Dim+Sum monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/France monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Culture monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Food monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Hoi+An monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Trek monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Africa monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Provence monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Martin monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Kenya monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Khmer monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Mykonos monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/New+Zealand monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Restaurant monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Street+Food monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/WWOOF monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Farm monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Vietnamese monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Clams monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Paris monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Community monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/cuisine-1/tag/Farming monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community daily 0.75 2017-12-28 http://www.jrny.life/community/2017/12/27/how-to-beat-expectations-in-2018 monthly 0.5 2017-12-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1514422965341-F666P0PGVNXBLDU20N51/srilanka-lowres1.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - How to Beat Expectations Udawalawe National Park, Sri Lanka; December 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1514423099902-FTZG88529KWJQUA5Y42O/montenegro-lowres1.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - How to Beat Expectations Durmitor National Park, Montenegro; August 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1514423399341-408518AQM7YCHM44AR6W/nepal-lowres1.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - How to Beat Expectations Annapurna Circuit, Himalayas, Nepal; October 2017. http://www.jrny.life/community/2017/11/23/move-into-stillness monthly 0.5 2017-11-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1511427464505-SJJH7NBVC90KHEMXXN0G/stillness-lowres1.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Move into Stillness https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1511427485737-5FIS5UBZU3TB1PKL6N6E/stillness-lowres2.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Move into Stillness http://www.jrny.life/community/2017/11/4/cant-we-all-agree-toagree monthly 0.5 2017-11-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1509793480457-K5EVWOOAY7TRC2KD94V2/Dalai_lowres1.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Can't We All Agree to...Agree? Martin reflects on the teachings of His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama; McLeod Ganj. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1509793719982-5KXPF996KM9OCLRSM56I/Dalai_lowres2.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Can't We All Agree to...Agree? Photo of His Holiness from the official Dalai Lama website. http://www.jrny.life/community/2017/10/22/reaching-new-heights monthly 0.5 2017-10-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1508668919641-16KYDX13YBA15M08ZCGG/TM_annapurna1.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Reaching New Heights After six days of trekking Nepal's Annapurna Circuit, we took a moment to reflect on where we'd come from and what we'd learned before we set out early the next morning to cross the world's highest mountain pass. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1508669219034-6WWIT5SAK8AVSV2T3UHD/TM_annapurna2.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Reaching New Heights Together, we achieved new heights! http://www.jrny.life/community/2017/8/27/when-life-gives-you-layovers monthly 0.5 2017-09-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505196377103-XS5UOQLHGS043DHE2SKC/Beijing_add4.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - When Life Gives You Layovers Arriving in Beijing on New Year's Day, the air quality was much too poor for much sight seeing (Jan 1). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505196348711-K83HZJYNB181KMX000EB/Beijing_add1.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - When Life Gives You Layovers Instead, we opted for showers and dinner of dim sum and Peking Duck with our friend Nik who'd later join us in Bali. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505196357469-U05W5Z3LSHP7C56COB71/Beijing_add2.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - When Life Gives You Layovers A lucky treat to begin 2017 and our journey around the world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505196364230-LLQ9K6KWOAPXZ9IY4Q6H/Beijing_add3.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - When Life Gives You Layovers Nik was so kind to allow us to freshen up and relax in his apartment before heading back to the airport for another 12-hour flight - this next one to Auckland. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505196433833-ISX662KNAVQC05C08FIB/Beijing_lowres1.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - When Life Gives You Layovers Going up! We opted for the gondola ride from the base to the top of the Great Wall (July 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505196446069-59SHK9IWRESGFH30QUP2/Beijing_lowres6.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - When Life Gives You Layovers View of the majestic Wall from the gondola as we made our way even higher. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505196435630-16SEF3347FIOI7AAJ44S/Beijing_lowres2.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - When Life Gives You Layovers The spectacular design of the Wall is the perfect setting for an impromptu photo shoot. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505196442313-FFECRP5D3U59I71XTDOX/Beijing_lowres3.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - When Life Gives You Layovers The ancient steps that lead up the many inclines and descents of the Wall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505196442156-5C4HOWKMFJJ7W81ZX4O4/Beijing_lowres4.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - When Life Gives You Layovers Another picture, another portion of the Wall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505196448587-DPPYQYAHAY15C38H23JP/Beijing_lowres5.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - When Life Gives You Layovers We spent longer on the Wall that excepted, just staring at the ingenuity of humanity to create something so extensive. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505196450383-U9QZJL1WDRTV80FHFQRX/Beijing_lowres7.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - When Life Gives You Layovers We wrapped our second layover in Beijing with another dinner of Peking Duck. http://www.jrny.life/community/2017/8/27/farm-lessons-from-japan monthly 0.5 2017-08-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504008374732-1DZ21QF2LF2HNJE7LTVB/JapanWWOOF_lowres15.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Back on the Farm: Lessons from Japan Bucolic Shiratori Family Farm in northern Japan with Mt. Iwaki in the background, and yes, that is still snow on the peak in mid-June. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504008003988-9WTSX7SQ1O7KDPP83956/JapanWWOOF_lowres5.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Back on the Farm: Lessons from Japan First order of daily business (5am!) on Shiratori Farm was feeding and watering the free range chickens (June 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504007974598-HRFBSXOZQLXIK8E5GPPM/JapanWWOOF_lowres4.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Back on the Farm: Lessons from Japan Potato bugs and weeds were no match for us! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504007938968-0T281AZH7PHBO8GLS7VG/JapanWWOOF_lowres2.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Back on the Farm: Lessons from Japan We were rewarded for our labour with delicious Japanese meals prepared by our lovely host, Junko-San. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504007926221-2B7NMMQYQFSMAJN2ELRZ/JapanWWOOF_lowres1.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Back on the Farm: Lessons from Japan One of the long-term workers, Toshi, had studied in Knoxville, TN, and quickly won Trey over with his "Big Orange" hat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504008066484-97YOBU98TJXPSOJ14Q6E/JapanWWOOF_lowres7.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Back on the Farm: Lessons from Japan Greenhouse in prep, where Kat-San used the fallen leaves of Japan's famous cherry trees for soil-enriching compost. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504007954761-COYTDHZLR2CWW6V923II/JapanWWOOF_lowres3.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Back on the Farm: Lessons from Japan The water on the farm comes from a beautiful natural cold spring. Here, Martin has a taste straight from the source. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504008126415-TX8QAW7U8XD88X6AV85B/JapanWWOOF_lowres8.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Back on the Farm: Lessons from Japan Rows of recently transplanted cucumbers that we helped string up and weed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504008210568-E66XQOUTGSUVBA7FR9UX/JapanWWOOF_lowres12.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Back on the Farm: Lessons from Japan Trey and his new friend Toshi head to the fields for another day of weeding. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504008160223-IKZ0YO5RT201CLHX0D5K/JapanWWOOF_lowres10.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Back on the Farm: Lessons from Japan With snow still on the mountain in mid-June, you can imagine how cold winters are for the family, so we spent a lot of time cutting wood in preparation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504008176525-EN3MO07IE9FMRMX8FDII/JapanWWOOF_lowres11.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Back on the Farm: Lessons from Japan Junko-san ran the house and cooked wonderful traditional meals that always included soup and plenty of rice to go around. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504008232533-W28MDXUWAAJAATRNWKC7/JapanWWOOF_lowres14.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Back on the Farm: Lessons from Japan Our last dinner at Shiratori with the family and other farm helpers (June 28). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504008319931-7FVAZM4TT5IQBEALL950/JapanWWOOF_lowres13.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Back on the Farm: Lessons from Japan Trey and I spent plenty of sun-drenched hours weeding and de-bugging the many rows of the farm's healthy potato plants. http://www.jrny.life/community/2017/3/19/travel-and-matters-of-the-heart monthly 0.5 2017-03-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489979273278-UTPZTR61K0T96A2M0DV7/lowres_lifegoeson2.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Travel and Matters of the Heart We took a 2-hour boat from Sihanoukville on the southern coast to the idyllic island of Koh Rong (March 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489979374059-8U05NW9HUTQYOEDD3OGV/lowres_lifegoeson5.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Travel and Matters of the Heart Palm Beach Bungalows, our home on Koh Rong, was a respite from the crowds and tour buses we experienced in Siem Reap (March 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489979505144-YZLKM505NYZHZ0G1LFQ9/lowres_lifegoeson10.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Travel and Matters of the Heart The open-air restaurant provided our meals throughout our stay as well as games, a pool table, and fire pit (March 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489979309558-RO51QJCF8MF8ZU2PNJD2/lowres_lifegoeson3.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Travel and Matters of the Heart Bungalow No. 1, just metres from the ocean waters, was ours for a full week (March 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489979345598-J8QOBILL31ZLWLU4CVXR/lowres_lifegoeson4.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Travel and Matters of the Heart We spent many mornings sipping coffee and waking up to this view (March 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489979398310-SKI940DFQ402UYMESQDN/lowres_lifegoeson7.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Travel and Matters of the Heart Lazy days spent with feet up and book in hand on the porch of our bungalow (March 3). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489979425472-T7H0SCCZZ8J37HL5EDEA/lowres_lifegoeson6.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Travel and Matters of the Heart We took the kayaks out to the small river village a short distance from the property (March 8). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489979465410-QAGX3GK1Q99TJHM5RL4F/lowres_lifegoeson9.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Travel and Matters of the Heart Locals and staff brought daily offerings to a small shrine just in front of our bungalow (March 8). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489979439166-Z022J6M43Q8W40ZZY6SM/lowres_lifegoeson8.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Travel and Matters of the Heart Palm Beach was quiet, calm and peaceful, offering time for meditation, reflection and contemplation during a time of grieving (March 8). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489979540782-3KORT6XNHG8XXUC9BGER/lowres_lifegoeson11.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Travel and Matters of the Heart Also, you never knew who might come by the resort, locals buzzing on motos, local dogs and cats, and even these water buffalo (March 8)! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489979140755-TK38W8OP39T8AZZ0CWYE/image-asset.jpeg .PERSPECTIVES - Travel and Matters of the Heart My mother, Alva (right), with my beloved grandmother on her 90th birthday. http://www.jrny.life/community/2017/2/17/laid-back-in-ngwesaung monthly 0.5 2017-02-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1487313547620-CLCNN9XDBVL34LG0XJDE/NGbeach_lowres1.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Laid Back in Ngwesaung After the long bus ride, we were surrounded by men offering trishaw rides from the bus stop to our hotel - why not? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1487313598242-76JYAZ2I809GN2U7JGIL/NGbeach_lowres3.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Laid Back in Ngwesaung Our stay at the Myanmar Treasure was a much needed respite from the travel grind. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1487313583095-XJVOSCS9UWSBKQ002Q80/NGbeach_lowres2.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Laid Back in Ngwesaung The wide beach of Ngwesaung becomes a sort of highway of activity around sunset. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1487313625146-RJCL0S7TI1FQ312DCQR7/NGbeach_lowres5.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Laid Back in Ngwesaung Young men on horseback gallop along the beach from point to point, often showing off for photos. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1487313608898-21H4P1GM0EU1KQLRA0BH/NGbeach_lowres4.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Laid Back in Ngwesaung The fishermen come to shore in the late afternoon before sunset to deliver their bounty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1487313634815-WHKTWXLF43DTGFON8I1J/NGbeach_lowres6.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Laid Back in Ngwesaung Trey taking in the breathtaking sunset of Ngwesaung, where the sun disappears before it hits the horizon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1487313729566-3PHV3G2UIOL97ZIPX4B8/NGbeach_lowres10.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Laid Back in Ngwesaung Martin taking pause at Kyauk Maumghnama Pagoda, or 'brother and sister rocks'. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1487313700800-KL8IBQ6N8NUNYDD738SK/NGbeach_lowres8.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Laid Back in Ngwesaung Long and wide Ngwesaung gently curves to reveal large rocks and finally, Lovers Island. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1487313717288-UM1PJEFDJJ2IQB15Y1DS/NGbeach_lowres9.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Laid Back in Ngwesaung The beautiful art of the tiny Sand Bubbler crabs, who leave behind balled up excess sand as they hunt for food. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1487313687258-02S0QD22C9LPBPAMSZP2/NGbeach_lowres7.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Laid Back in Ngwesaung The pop up cafes along Ngwesaung beach, where young coconut juice costs just $2 USD. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1487313738878-TPLKER11GJDTPSFMU03A/NGbeach_lowres11.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Laid Back in Ngwesaung Tasty whole BBQ grilled fish served with steamed veggies at Ume Restaurant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1487313748222-FUWTOSET0XMV7UDTFZ0R/NGbeach_lowres12.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Laid Back in Ngwesaung Ume Restaurant has a nightly fire dance, set to the pulsating sounds of the latest mixed tracks. http://www.jrny.life/community/2017/1/21/a-culture-of-conservation monthly 0.5 2017-01-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485042671878-FS8JOOE8QYI48IO68SDZ/conservation9_lowres.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - A Culture of Conservation Putting our feet up in Deer Flat en route to NZ's majestic Milford Sound (Jan 8). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485042825968-KSOWLPVU9BPNYSIS1UZA/P1010374.JPG .PERSPECTIVES - A Culture of Conservation After a 2.5 KM trek from Totaranui, we arrived at beautiful Anapai Bay in Abel Tasman National Park (Jan 17). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485042878640-RUS0SLA2W189B1LQMX5T/conservation1_lowres.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - A Culture of Conservation High tide at Lake Kaniere near Dorothy Falls and Hokitika, which was our first stop on the West Coast after braving Arthur's Pass (Jan 5). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485042897963-YR4EVSW4V2K771113JW8/conservation2_lowres.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - A Culture of Conservation At Haast (West Coast), you can either walk the Ship Creek dunes or the bog (Jan 6). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485043005393-0R2LAJVFSE5IOBAZIC4U/P1000619.JPG .PERSPECTIVES - A Culture of Conservation A 20-min walk through the Ship Creek Bog revealed pre-historic like trees and plants (Jan 6). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485042910065-AGF52I7289Q2NTY9JQT2/conservation6_lowres.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - A Culture of Conservation The Hokitika Gorge features ice blue water and a famous swing bridge (Jan 5). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485044101114-2FOAN9RDRUF81YWCDKHH/conservation4_lowres.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - A Culture of Conservation A scenic walk through the Ship Creek dunes with sea grass, driftwood and rocky sands (Jan 5). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485044109979-X0VSGZU0FNRDUFTMPF9A/conservation7_lowres.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - A Culture of Conservation At the Wilderness Scientific Reserve near Te Anau, we got the idea of what the lands may have looked like during the last Ice Age (Jan 8). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485044144116-OCHD58703OCG2CQFKT8H/conservation8_lowres.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - A Culture of Conservation A beautiful tree grows at the Mirror Lakes, which reflect the stunning Earl Mountains (Jan 8). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485044195656-L2UBTHKDRF47EVWL42MC/conservation11_lowres.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - A Culture of Conservation The hike to Anapai Bay is the first section of the Coast Track (a 3-5 Day return) in Abel Tasman National Park (Jan 17). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485044224537-MC0JZW9VIT3KWUGW7SVE/conservation10_lowres.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - A Culture of Conservation The winds on the walk to Wharariki Beach just west of Farewell Spit (the northern most point of the South Island) nearly blew us off the track (Jan 13). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485044427418-D2IBOT9FAJYPXYE38OWI/P1000601.JPG .PERSPECTIVES - A Culture of Conservation The Ship Creek Dunes walk also took us through marshland just over the dunes (Jan 6). http://www.jrny.life/community/2016/12/19/3nnc8h11tryzk17s54hf6g7qc1h3am monthly 0.5 2016-12-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482171663148-Z8XJTG7Z4LHTQW13XV4P/TSlowres1.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - On the Road Again https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482171704826-1ZFG6XJ0BT1XU8XU3FY0/TSlowres2.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - On the Road Again https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482171712050-LY2FQZGQLIXPCB15Z0FG/TSlowres5.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - On the Road Again https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482171717539-WF24LK5NAAUKNMYUX83L/TSlowres6.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - On the Road Again https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482171861167-RK9BJMUO8RW1II7OREFM/TSlowres14.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - On the Road Again https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482171721004-T99M230SBY7YQTN5TNBG/TSlowres7.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - On the Road Again https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482171918616-CIT1ZTVZRXC4MBI3OAAV/TSlowres4.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - On the Road Again https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482171924400-JXP3WJBGEVEWDSHR7TLP/TSlowres8.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - On the Road Again https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482171934541-V45EBCGRYN6G7GMSX1PP/TSlowres13.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - On the Road Again https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482171926554-DLPL5PT1EM4UKOB3CJ2F/TSlowres12.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - On the Road Again https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482172420916-GKCFI9MLCVCU8KIEH811/TSlowres10.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - On the Road Again https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1482171929375-MGFXOMW7BGQIA0JX71AW/TSlowres9.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - On the Road Again http://www.jrny.life/community/2016/12/4/the-big-five-and-some monthly 0.5 2016-12-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480891107929-IC8P725ZGBS5G3EXO7V0/BigFivelowres1.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - The Big Five and Other Wilds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480891121580-WY2NICQ3YH0SS29PHBX8/BigFivelowres5.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - The Big Five and Other Wilds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480891135302-8J119B3V69AU7SYF7C2I/BigFivelowres12.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - The Big Five and Other Wilds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480891143501-Z0XR3NU8BWZG9X23A5CE/BigFivelowres3.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - The Big Five and Other Wilds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480891155759-VSQUBRCU4TCNE1141G6L/BigFivelowres7.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - The Big Five and Other Wilds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480891172952-OQZQ2L7AD0L8PYG4D4I2/BigFivelowres13.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - The Big Five and Other Wilds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480891187731-7ZEFJE8WJ90Y2FS2NF7W/BigFivelowres2.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - The Big Five and Other Wilds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480891339293-XC0WBC1FIT6Q7KW52IO3/BigFivelowres11.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - The Big Five and Other Wilds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480891439526-TP994N0BO7SZBL3SS9G9/BigFivelowres4.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - The Big Five and Other Wilds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480891356390-LKZN383B1MTHA9VRC2L2/BigFivelowres8.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - The Big Five and Other Wilds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480891361902-TJJDEDWQCT0WCJUIRRLN/BigFivelowres9.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - The Big Five and Other Wilds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480891368026-KD7PVYH75YU46LC1PE8N/BigFivelowres14.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - The Big Five and Other Wilds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480891375879-VWS1BI986TFPIXYEPUF8/BigFivelowres15.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - The Big Five and Other Wilds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480891385628-QT46RA6Z7SOLVV1S2P3U/BigFivelowres10.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - The Big Five and Other Wilds https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480891455326-FEJECF34ZP48OQTJH44G/BigFivelowres16.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - The Big Five and Other Wilds http://www.jrny.life/community/2016/11/30/jambo-my-name-is monthly 0.5 2016-12-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480564907883-FI0MZJD4WN8QSL8XZYLV/Jambolowres.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - JAMBO, My Name Is... https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480564916486-9UHVZEDTPJRXVULXP9SZ/jambolowres2.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - 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A Moment with Mama Jane http://www.jrny.life/community/2016/12/4/voices-of-opportunity monthly 0.5 2016-12-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480902113830-EAPGTEZ0ZZAMK8P57O1B/Rungulowres1.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Voices of Opportunity https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480902120575-NP6G2Q57URTB2I63FMNS/Rungulowres2.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Voices of Opportunity https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480902125504-D74D86VEWHETS8AG8O8H/Rungu6.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Voices of Opportunity https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480902131493-TRBD6C8H9GOZS42FQR3E/Rungulowres3.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Voices of Opportunity https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480902136600-MIAI0ZZWOCGMT2OIBSF3/Rungulowres4.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Voices of Opportunity https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480902151697-4JLKZXK2EAH73BZ8NMOX/Rungulowres5.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Voices of Opportunity http://www.jrny.life/community/2016/12/1/tangled-in-the-terraces-of-the-douro monthly 0.5 2016-12-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480629219215-Y9560MKFN17DKO28F55C/TangledinDourolowres1.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Tangled in the Terraces of the Douro https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480629340241-4T75SYUZ5R0XONFGVR7S/TangledinDourolowres2.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Tangled in the Terraces of the Douro https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480629459981-20K7U2KBBL63CGPRKFS3/TangledinDourolowres3.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Tangled in the Terraces of the Douro https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480629610027-2GH5V9QI2SFUYJNOL690/TangledinDourolowres4.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Tangled in the Terraces of the Douro https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480629722947-S7JXXQFXUVGOHOYCFPTB/TangledinDourolowres5.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Tangled in the Terraces of the Douro https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480630059568-IFPPWF1NW6UE8EUX4LBQ/TangledinDourolowres6.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Tangled in the Terraces of the Douro http://www.jrny.life/community/2016/12/4/like-a-rolling-azulejo monthly 0.5 2016-12-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480884847295-ALA7B8KBK9C9IDRF09OY/Rollingazulejalowres1.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Like a Rolling Azulejo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480884857960-V5AXOK43RH4OOMLLT2XK/Rollingazulejalowres2.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Like a Rolling Azulejo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480863430983-KGDCG7SCRMNDSOA7CDVE/IMG_4012.JPG .PERSPECTIVES - Like a Rolling Azulejo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480863457194-BCLUNK5YNSCGBG436YZ6/IMG_4018.JPG .PERSPECTIVES - Like a Rolling Azulejo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480863499047-W5IPK9ZZIJ31ZG6TINET/IMG_4025.JPG .PERSPECTIVES - Like a Rolling Azulejo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480863525669-8GAS2NOHHJSBK4I43G8W/IMG_4132.JPG .PERSPECTIVES - Like a Rolling Azulejo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1480863529584-371KD3QOASHVHKN8JZVU/IMG_6276.jpg .PERSPECTIVES - Like a Rolling Azulejo http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Myanmar monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Destination monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Spirituality monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Cambodia monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Portual monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Himalayas monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/McLeod+Ganj monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Safari monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Stillness monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Portugal monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/kenya monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Design monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Resolutions monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Beach monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Vineyard monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Douro monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/China monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Agriculture monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Perspectives monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Culture monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Nepal monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Nature monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/africa monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Layover monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Japan monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Africa monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Maasai monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Kenya monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Mindfulness monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Dalai+Lama monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/India monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/New+Zealand monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Beijing monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Travel monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/WWOOF monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Trey monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/culture monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Annapurna monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Farm monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Life monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Intention monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Expectation monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Community monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/community/tag/Koh+Rong monthly 0.5 http://www.jrny.life/countries daily 0.75 2018-02-27 http://www.jrny.life/countries/2018/2/27/basking-in-the-shine-of-sri-lanka monthly 0.5 2018-03-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773336378-2PW5FM5SS17H9K8KC5XM/srilanka_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Statue of Lord Buddha in Kandy's Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Dec 13). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773339273-TSRUP7B2EYEFJE7TUJ2A/srilanka_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Hall with historic paintings depicting the life of Lord Buddha. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773350728-WQIDHAK8PHDON5UAF3JD/srilanka_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Shrine where the Sacred Tooth Relic is displayed and honored by devotees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773375912-5EPA9ITW7N4M376NBD0K/srilanka_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka A stunning day to visit the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kandy (Dec 14). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773390958-MQA2EXR6KNWATBCZSMXZ/srilanka_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka We were particularly curious of the many Cannon Ball Trees, one of which was planted by King Edward VII, son of Queen Victoria. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773400595-RFGD11TDIQ1YUD5VY676/srilanka_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Martin rooting himself in the beautiful nature here in the park – his happy place is anywhere with trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773407239-UXAPSYN6TV4E7NOBUEVT/SriLanka_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Taking in the sunshine at the picturesque Bogambara Lake, which sits at the edge of Kandy next to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773419736-LEXBXGC22V9UQMRJCA3V/SriLanka_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Ever curious of what’s for sale at the local markets, vendors here are offering sun-dried fish to flavor local curries. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773425266-PWDC86LU9AZZ2IFYG51Z/SriLanka_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Our last adventure in Kandy was to mount the climb to the Giant Buddha statue overlooking the former capital – we made it just before the evening rain! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773362834-5KIC2VVSKIPFRWD8GTPV/srilanka_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Our first Sri Lankan rail journey embarked from the charming Art Deco Kandy Railway station (Dec 15). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773500837-NEIWTY719UD4OAYGIE16/SriLanka_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka All aboard! The train journey from Kandy to Ella was truly spectacular, taking us through lush forest, tea plantations and more (Dec 15). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773508276-6Y9A9DXG20X18VAFANXG/SriLanka_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Waterfalls flowed a-plenty in this lush, verdant land. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773516101-37XR5WGDRPIEUW8X8D69/SriLanka_lowres13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Trey took a peek out the window for some fresh, hill country air! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773523295-ZHDMTESMMWBYY70Q8VZY/SriLanka_lowres14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka This guy had the right idea with his wool cap – it got quite a bit chillier as we climbed in elevation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773531255-AM98IQH5K5CHV4ZHW4BO/SriLanka_lowres15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka The misty air along the way added a surreal element to the train journey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773538216-QSFMX4C7YVBQ2W2HJW40/SriLanka_lowres16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Our Ella guesthouse absolutely spoiled us with these spectacular views and breakfast served daily on our private terrace (Dec 16). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773545372-HWMUJ5RAJ0NMPTN731P3/SriLanka_lowres17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka You can’t beat the views from here at Village View Homestay in Ella! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773559814-33U3K1CN7CSCGBWB4QRU/SriLanka_lowres18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Trey 'training' on the Ella tracks (Dec 17). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773570051-CM7B9JWNMTY92XZMXUA7/SriLanka_lowres19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Nine Arches Bridge is a popular place to view trains passing by – we had just missed it! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773582035-VVO7NGYXKNZS8VY1HS8E/SriLanka_lowres20.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Taking the shortcut via the train tracks, which led right into town from our guesthouse. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773634017-WW7TNZ65WP4M56A7XP0A/SriLanka_lowres21.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Women harvesting tea at the plantations around Ella (Dec 18). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773647165-2XQJ5E0LAJU86GQ5O4XC/SriLanka_lowres22.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka A man by the side of the road sorted tomatoes, which were harvested in the fertile valleys of Ella. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773662120-3YXJW2URTH8AX8ZPUUEF/SriLanka_lowres23.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Martin got lost amongst the tea bushes surrounding this solid white Buddhist stupa. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773670664-UKGPZNJZC0X61UIAKTTJ/SriLanka_lowres24.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Trey thought this leaf looked ready for pickin’! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773678499-K5LS81BZ303QSEJJ4CD8/SriLanka_lowres25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Heaven! Green tea in every shade! While in Ella we visited two tea factories (no photos allowed!) – black tea at Uva Halpewatte and this Green tea factory at Newburgh. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773686494-Z6N26GULBTQGMQPXT404/SriLanka_lowres26.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka We may have had a few cups of tea at this point in the journey! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773695397-1P7WQEE2YB1DXGYPUP4I/SriLanka_lowres27.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka The picturesque tea fields of Sri Lanka are not to be missed! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773703078-MBSJ1BQ3HIGMT60IMRR4/SriLanka_lowres28.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka We couldn’t stop checking out the tea shrubs! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773712520-QZMXSSTUHYXG0BX9BMI8/SriLanka_lowres29.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka As we left Ella, we got an up close view of Ravena Falls, the waterfall we had enjoyed from the balcony of our guesthouse (Dec 19). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773754473-35V0DXEHFPQEZGKDYEP2/SriLanka_lowres30.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Safari in Udawalawe National Park brought us up close to the magnificent Sri Lankan elephants (Dec 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773760836-MHSOXJ3XW51R9SBZAQOK/SriLanka_lowres31.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Peacocks were hang drying their feathers on this soggy morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773767173-5ZNMM2OVIFEG8WSKXBR2/SriLanka_lowres32.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka A peacock’s royal plumage was truly something to behold in the wild. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773774755-K18A178D0U5A9RYWBW5B/SriLanka_lowres33.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka A herd of Sri Lankan Elephants, the mothers and aunts surrounded the calves for protection. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773783778-FIA5FF2XBJEWPW68G2FT/SriLanka_lowres34.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Our jeep managed to get stuck in the mud – thank goodness for helpful guides throughout the park! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773791534-9Z9MZ679W7GBKK5F1V24/SriLanka_lowres35.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka This beautiful Grey Langur Monkey waited out the rain from her perch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773798196-RFZZEN03GHESSH58UCA0/SriLanka_lowres36.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka A Crested Hawk Eagle perched high atop the canopy as it scanned for prey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773804677-5JCPTT1ZDT3TKBZLGZZX/SriLanka_lowres37.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Peacock reflecting on life in the Sri Lankan plains. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773810653-LCZFCYK9RWIMQP8OV3UW/SriLanka_lowres38.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka What’s that you see, Trey? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773816842-8HU9L0NC8P3GOA840R9Z/SriLanka_lowres39.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Another eagle! This time we spotted a Changeable Hawk Eagle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773851756-CABFO56G34YYFQW6GQVE/SriLanka_lowres40.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka A Sri Lankan elephant dug in the clay soil for minerals to consume. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773857512-VIQLAFGS1M8UBXJIGW4Q/SriLanka_lowres41.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka It was a chilly, damp morning, so we made sure to bundle up! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773865479-UOQEEOIORFEZXEBVW2U2/SriLanka_lowres42.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Water buffalo were curious of our Jeep. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773872038-Z1PMDPYUC6NNIDDK76B3/SriLanka_lowres43.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka The beautiful Indian Roller birds were numerous in the park and playful in the rain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773882725-K9B587Y189LC3W3OLXCL/SriLanka_lowres44.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka A white bellied sea eagle scanned the waters from high in the trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773889884-IDS042Y2CKBGD9882KQ7/SriLanka_lowres45.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka A herd of water buffalo were completely in their element. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773898257-RXA4G62PP6KCQNQ5OIEA/SriLanka_lowres46.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka A small herd of Sri Lankan Sambar Deer grazed in a meadow. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773905414-T9QRBIFL7S34P4APMT6S/SriLanka_lowres47.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka A pair of toque macaque monkeys were caught off guard! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773912595-A8AMY8LIE5ZWUSC03WEZ/SriLanka_lowres48.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Elephants use mud to coat their bodies for protection from the sun and insects - so all the rain was like a spa day for them! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773984288-M6FL8QNXX04OKD936F1B/SriLanka_lowres50.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka The charming lighthouse of Galle, flanked by swaying palms in the tropical heat (Dec 22). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773972611-VA9SZKK22HUIGFZTI2JU/SriLanka_lowres49.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Beautiful Dutch colonial heritage architecture can be found around the Fort village of Galle - including this historic mosque. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773993673-TDYOX43XFPSO2EAL37GA/SriLanka_lowres51.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka We enjoyed the perfectly clear days until the midday sun would drive us indoors! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519773999935-39G1K3EWHESYCYJCLY9D/SriLanka_lowres52.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka A monitor lizard decided to have a browse in a local shop. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519774005975-2FNU9SVF24FKQ59B8CUV/SriLanka_lowres53.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka The golden hour was soon upon us in Galle, and this clock tower was begging to be photographed! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519774033936-OS2QNEERCB3TOAOF1FKJ/SriLanka_lowres55.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Christmas at Tallala Bay Beach had us wondering from which direction Santa would arrive on his sleigh – does Trey spot him? (Dec 25) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519774040276-NTFGTG7FOA5ZF9D7UUAE/SriLanka_lowres56.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Feeling so grateful after a year on the road (Dec 26). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519774045695-3HJF6ANW57R24EZ21CET/SriLanka_lowres57.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka We couldn’t get enough of scene, the last beach of the journey in 2017! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519774052064-PBZD9G8994WAJKOJXCL4/SriLanka_lowres58.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Trey showing off some of his yoga skills learned on the road this year. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519774058232-C2321MXRMI8E0H1N24MQ/SriLanka_lowres59.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Each day, we enjoyed fresh seafood that had been brought in before we had even awakened (Dec 28). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1519774064047-EX8PKMTY9ZKUV0SDHXSG/SriLanka_lowres60.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Basking in the Shine of Sri Lanka Martin takes one last plunge of 2017 - and of our journey (Dec 30). http://www.jrny.life/countries/2018/2/17/wxru1a35jhhi2sfohg31sdernvcahv monthly 0.5 2018-03-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927319546-OKNTUYV21UR96DOF22AH/maldives_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives With skies so blue and water crystal clear, we felt that we were in heaven here on Thoddoo (Dec 5)! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927326315-BDXDVE8W4I2IEM2HFQZK/maldives_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives Martin getting ready to dive in for a snorkel – the reefs off the ‘bikini beach’ of Thoddoo are teaming with sea life! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927333250-ZQMC43CQF1VLSHY9FVZS/maldives_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives The white sand is a product of all the broken down coral that makes up the Maldives (Dec 6). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927341236-F6NGSQVXI81IR3W1CO9Y/maldives_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives The entire island nation of the Maldives is on average just about four feet above sea level. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927313179-TXJ8KDB28Y23UI1Z7JCY/maldives_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives The Maldives is an orthodox Islamic state and adheres to Sharia law on the inhabited islands – here is the beautiful new mosque on the island. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927352200-55FOVD65Z3IJDX5O83Q7/maldives_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives We fell in love with the huge grassy, palm-lined fields, which make up about half of the interior of this quiet, verdant island. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927363878-0SAHC8F1MKHA2M8RQSRY/maldives_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives Watch out for falling coconuts! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927457977-R7O4H363PZQFNZXXDVZN/maldives_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives Trey is soaking it all up (Dec 8)! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927444872-UR3AGACGUM5CA9MV2BBL/maldives_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives Island life means taking time to sit down and enjoy the pause – these clever mesh seats can be found outside of small shops or guesthouses all over the island. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927451021-D83QAVXJ7KMEA8NL4RB7/maldives_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives Grilled fresh caught fish for dinner? Yes, please! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927464531-7LE19KVSFXF8GI0W6XFK/maldives_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives Having a bit of fun splashing around in the electric blue water, too! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927470894-69SFT2179KSL0RHLVMGE/maldives_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives Snack time on the beach means locally grown papaya – served with the help of our trusty Swiss Army Knife (thanks Leah!). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927478081-5B7DRUDWOF138FE5K2I6/maldives_lowres13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives Rows of squash and beans grow on this agricultural island. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927488820-6F0QLV43ETZU8AN6LFTH/maldives_lowres14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives We couldn't get enough of these brilliantly colored leafy greens we found everywhere! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927540347-Q7JPBCIF4HB0A27XR9MC/maldives_lowres16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives Maldivian breakfast is a hearty and exceptionally delicious start to our beach days (Dec 9). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927533441-X7LW480JUKPBVF5TZA34/maldives_lowres15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives We couldn’t eat enough of the Vitamin-C packed Papayas! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927546780-0R00P2XCCN9V55ASE01M/maldives_lowres17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives Our days consisted of a lot of doing this. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927551572-EQJXMQ6C12I6NOD841GG/maldives_lowres18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives And with views like this. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927557820-VICQ7S5JKF02RGKDLX02/maldives_lowres19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives And long walks along this. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927564179-AHRO81AJ6GZ6570DZX0F/maldives_lowres20.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives And vibrant evenings like this. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518927573574-T1NRWBPVN9EEHIXG8E2G/maldives_lowres21.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Magical Maldives On our final evening walking along our favorite sandy, palm-lined lane, Trey asked Martin if he’d like to walk side-by-side in the journey of life, forever. Yes! http://www.jrny.life/countries/2018/2/9/uncovering-the-many-faces-of-mother-india monthly 0.5 2018-03-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518305832702-LC6BS2D9YOL81GR5ULV5/india_lowres43.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Falling in love with the grand Taj Mahal (Nov 9). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518305843972-NN52UDDQJQFTOHMIT79X/india_lowres44.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Some 20,000 artisans were employed in the construction of the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal, the favorite wife of the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, who reigned from 1628-1658. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518305850620-HSKN4QWJPKBKAW4IHPCI/india_lowres46.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two The Taj Mahal was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 for being "the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage". https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518305856370-RKEE7XCOORV88LKM2ZEX/india_lowres48.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Eight million tourists pay homage to this world wonder every year, and we were grateful to join them in admiring its beauty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518305864430-8AOL427L0G054ULHNOHJ/india_lowres49.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two The most spectacular feature is the marble dome that tops the tomb and is nearly 35 metres (115 ft) high. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518305871618-L4DBWRVM4BH6WW2UBAAR/india_lowres50.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Coined the “Baby Taj,” a must see site in Agra after the Taj, is another Mughal-era mausoleum, the Tomb of I'timād-ud-Daulah. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518305880425-B99A7P9SXI9JEV8O0R1F/india_lowres51.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Earning its nickname for its resemblance to the Taj Mahal, this tomb was built, in fact, before its more famous neighbor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518305889229-2UA9VF3N1921KYX1H0UK/india_lowres52.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two The tomb is adorned with an even more ornate patterning of inlaid marble with floral and geometric design elements. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518305973866-V82CQZA4ZXM5GP6AM2GL/india_lowres53.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Awa Mahal - aka the "Palace of Winds" - in Jaipur, India, is so named because it was essentially a high screen wall built for the women of the royal household to observe street festivities in Jaipur while remaining unseen (Nov 10). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518305980884-YKO28CNDV7L4YYLII20L/india_lowres54.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Jantar Mantar is a collection of nineteen architectural astronomical instruments built by the Rajput king Sawai Jai Singh II, completed in 1734. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518305986804-O5U6V5WKOQGXWKCXVGKO/india_lowres55.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Astrological signs have their own ‘clocks’ within the Jantar Mantar site – Trey checking out Gemini. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306006783-C8WKMBJQXHAZA6W7I1IJ/india_lowres57.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Ornamental gardens adorn the inner courtyards of Jaipur's Amer (or Amber) Palace. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518305999703-B28SRLQ0ZOZ330C0JS9U/india_lowres56.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two The Palace features Sheesh Mahal, or hall of mirrors, designed so that any ray of light that enters will be refracted throughout the entire hall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306031725-IVOYNBG7MADODUP4CGFI/india_lowres58.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Elegant, intricate design elements in a blend of Rajput and Hindu style can be found throughout the palace. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306041680-QG3AO4KVUBC3ZP75K22S/india_lowres59.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Jaipur is one of the most populous cities in Rajasthan, home to more than three million residents. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306215598-4NRDUDDXFF0NBG1L2O1F/india_lowres69.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Seemingly carved out of the craggy hillside, the impressive view of Mehrangarh Fort from our guesthouse rooftop was breathtaking (Nov 12). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306146168-PP9SR94FZFDPR99XY7L2/india_lowres60.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two A guard at the Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur is sporting the facial hair style du jour . https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306154340-R4GPIH0W9VZT333MZR15/india_lowres61.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Trey striking a pose at one of the few colorful spots within Jaswant Thada, the "white temple.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306162125-JHGGQ7DFFPJR6DCTZR4M/india_lowres62.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Jaswant Thada was built by Maharaja Sardar Singh in 1899 to honor the memory of his father, Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, and serves as the cremation ground for the royal family of Marwar. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306169481-EQOEWET87CB9BXXNPQ0B/india_lowres63.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Mehrangarh is one of the largest forts in India; built in 1460 by Rao Jodha, it is situated 410 feet above the city and enclosed by imposing thick walls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306177788-MPACGN3YQVPGAXEJCNL9/india_lowres64.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two It is also considered one of the best-preserved forts in all of India and boasts a robust and informative museum that we would recommend you visit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306186388-UCKEQURUT8ELVWE5QGGJ/india_lowres65.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Within the museum are a number of actors donning costumes from the era of this fort. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306195182-T3N9BHLHADKO0YA646AQ/india_lowres66.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Jodhpur is known as the "Blue City" as many of the old city's buildings are painted hues of blue in order to keep the houses cooler in the blistering summer sun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306203080-D5YZWFG00GYPFOFCWNW6/india_lowres67.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two One of the beautiful inner courtyards of the Mehrangarh Palace. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306209942-PBZLHQEL65RI5HF01YD8/india_lowres68.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Jodhpur’s ancient and beautifully preserved step well, found in the old town. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306334962-YVQ3OKYKJ8RXRP9RYCGY/india_lowres70.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two En route to Udaipur from Jodhpur, we made the wise choice to stop at the beautiful Ranakpur Jain Temple (Nov 13). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306341437-PZ6DVFLAC40UO42NOOMW/india_lowres71.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Supporting the domes of the temple are more than 1,444 marble pillars - all uniquely carved with no two pillars the same. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306441167-NABBPDLH9JNZLK0B74JL/india_lowres83.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two We reunited with WE to visit a local family in the rural village Antri (Nov 14). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306364698-UVEUTOLDTJJOWOUAX43H/india_lowres73.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two One of the work cows of the family, its horns colorfully decorated after a recent festival. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306373584-O07HYJGDV01UR6BPFK8N/india_lowres74.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Our gracious host showing us how to prepare and bake chapati over her home's open fire. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306380223-U9YNXPX40E4V3C6YDXT9/india_lowres75.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Trey taking a turn rolling chapati. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306387284-3L7NF87X3P6V6VRQ5WYP/india_lowres76.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two This family had so little by way of material possessions, but what they lack, they make up with love of family and appreciation for the opportunities afforded them by WE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306395939-L8T1MDTKZ56N7828J753/india_lowres77.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Access to clean drinking water is a dilemma for the poor all over the world. Here in Antri, they are fortunate to have a well that they are able to draw from year round. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306402295-D85CQTFBYZUUYFL9JYLR/india_lowres78.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Our host demonstrated how water is drawn up manually from the ground. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306408490-2R4CMCCTI3DT1ZJ5ARG6/india_lowres79.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Our turn to help bring a load of water home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306415861-1ES4QEJ82PSHK96AGRMA/india_lowres80.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two We made many new friends in Antri! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306422625-4MQV1PP9LY20NO414PO8/india_lowres81.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Martin couldn’t resist snuggling with the family's new-born goat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306431373-R0P2EOYA8XYZR9MN0E4Y/india_lowres82.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two It is very common for tribal villagers to co-habitate with their livestock in order to protect them from the area's wild leopards. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306455295-KWRMHG5HANE25TD7N3HW/india_lowres84.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Part of the new school being built by WE in Antri. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306462370-YA3K5T1YGBS9BY8K205F/india_lowres85.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two The school's phys. ed. teacher demonstrated some impressive yoga moves for us. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306469940-36RM3Y86MJNTT6GPBW8O/india_lowres86.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Students helped to decorate their new school. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306476581-5ATMXW287K1QUZKK5PX5/india_lowres87.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Ambrish, director of projects for WE India, was our gracious and highly informative guide for the day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306484272-DPKUJHRAKL3YDUMZNJ9E/india_lowres88.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Many thanks to our friends at WE for providing this invaluable insight into life of tribal Indians. If you'd like to learn more, please visit WE.org. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306491139-V0OJE0NQK6R30Y7U1784/india_lowres89.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two The next day, we toured the charming Udaipur City Palace (Nov 15). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306499316-WB7120YSUYM5DVYGFWJQ/india_lowres90.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two View of the "White City" from our boat ride on the lake. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306586051-VJSM4WAE9B7RIKQNTA5T/india_lowres91.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Boats afloat on the Ganga River in the holy city of Varanasi (Nov 16). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306593033-2S9228693G37XT77MJPR/india_lowres92.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two According to Nanditha Krishna, the cow veneration in ancient India "probably originated from the pastoral Aryans," whose religious texts called for non-violence towards all bipeds and quadrupeds and often equated the killing of a cow with the killing of a human being, especially a Brahmin. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306599468-B2NOFW2G90YQGG8HEOOW/india_lowres93.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Our first evening in Varanasi we took an evening boat tour on the Ganges. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306606128-ST326RV4MD1HNXWFGON4/india_lowres94.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two The Manikarnika Ghat is one of the holiest among the sacred ghats (riverfronts). It is believed that a dead human's soul finds salvation (moksha) when cremated here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306626278-AJN6I5L1PWTLP1UUR20D/india_lowres95.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Trey making a puja, or prayer offering, to the holy Ganga river. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306635461-K44G1LCGHBJ1JOECTR1J/india_lowres96.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two The Thai temple and giant Buddha statue at Sarnath, believed to be the holy site of the Buddha’s first teaching after receiving enlightenment (Nov 17). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306642780-7LZ7BZE08574D2QUK1RJ/india_lowres97.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Many Buddhist devotees make the pilgrimage to Sarnath from all over the world to listen to teachings on this holy site. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306649439-1WHQZ7GYP3DZLBBR6YVI/india_lowres98.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Dhamek Stupa in Sarnath marks the spot where the Buddha delivered his first teaching. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306657122-SIV0MM9H9UYCSNH42FSE/india_lowres99.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Buddhist countries around the world have built their own temples here in honor the Buddha. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306666611-GJ5OF24I19FBILF85FZ1/india_lowres100.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two The Japanese temple in Sarnath brought us right back to our time amongst the country's Zen temples this past June. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306681085-OLGWJYHBJRJ85NTHA6LW/india_lowres101.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Back in Varanasi old town, Martin couldn’t resist taking photos of these cute goats who have taken up residence on the ghats. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306687635-AMRM3K975PJ266QPY7KL/india_lowres102.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two The spectacular Hindu ritual called the 'Ganga Aarti' held at the banks of the River Ganges. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306694810-7I8J5QDGNIEEIFW3E5CV/india_lowres103.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two The ritual is first dedicated to a chosen goddess/god (in four cardinal directions, indicating omnipresence of God or the transcendental entity) and is then dedicated to all observers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306702334-63YM9XFSQZNKID9ZWMP3/india_lowres104.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two A giant mandala was being created and offered on the ghats. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306771797-PMU1G1VJCAHDAP574J35/india_lowres105.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two On our final day in Varanasi, we took a sunrise boat trip and witnessed the Ganga come to life. Here, Hindu worshipers bathing in the river to wash away all sins (Nov 18). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306777738-ECKZIV7UBU77WLQAHQG8/india_lowres106.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Yoga being practiced across the river on its sandy shore. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306784697-5G5O3NYJHBLLP5VU3TAT/india_lowres107.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Young Hindu monks praying at the riverbank. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306791167-HARR1XWBNE0Z6HYB2ABR/india_lowres108.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Hindus believe that any rituals performed adjacent to the river Ganges, or in its water, see their blessedness multiplied. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306798844-VYFE6JDGDGLAX4AI1NF8/india_lowres109.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two It’s not all holy worship and ritual at the river – here, clothing is being washed in earnest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306806515-XKN6ALWNPZBGUEP2TUXO/india_lowres110.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Stacks and stacks of wood are sold for cremation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306812660-335TEJD2OXFL12G2SMY6/india_lowres111.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two As part of Hindu cremation ritual, male family members of the deceased shave all of their hair. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306820047-XTNNAF3JXRP7JTW62PQE/india_lowres113.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two No holy offering goes to waste here! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306829756-O07TYD2W6RE9H3JSQLGI/india_lowres115.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Certain Hindu gods are worshiped only on certain days of the week - this day was dedicated to avoiding the temptations of Lord Shani. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306836816-9QNRTHKWLGQJUBIE8GPQ/india_lowres116.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two At every nook and cranny there is a temple or shrine in Varanasi. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306844010-SNWJHRE7E5Y9WG7K4MQJ/india_lowres117.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two One can purchase all sorts of Hindu religious paraphernalia here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306850959-EJKTHWEUZ79YHNGA0O2V/india_lowres118.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Holy men, or Sadus, hang out everywhere in Varanasi! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306857407-VM2JZRLR2PIEF843ISIE/india_lowres119.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two A baby calf adorned with offerings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306907202-QOVY2BTHI8MP1PUIIOUW/india_lowres120.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two We fell for the charming old-school taxis and cars we spotted all over Kolkata (Nov 19). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306913567-D0QMF1AIA02XCJK8YRB4/india_lowres121.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Plaque in St. John’s Church, one of the first buildings erected by the East India Co., speaks to a parishioner’s untimely and unfortunate demise (Nov 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306920702-N3V5WSIX77FWJL0Q4S18/india_lowres122.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Would you look at these police cruisers?? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306926942-KK6YLRFSCJ5VZYCZDF1J/india_lowres123.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Gates of the opulent Victoria Memorial. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306933603-D6SU1HDC7TSPDV31W8KK/india_lowres124.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Dedicated to the memory of Queen Victoria, the memorial is now a museum and beautiful parkland for all to enjoy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306942103-IHKY1RK03OOYWJ4WVQJQ/india_lowres125.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Nuns exiting the grounds of St. Paul’s in Kolkata. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306949364-38JOS7CFTNFE1KAQR9D9/india_lowres126.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two St. Paul’s Cathedral is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture found along the streets of Kolkata. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306956018-BZTGU3JB8T0MXDVD34JW/india_lowres127.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two No stop in Kolkata would be complete without a visit to Mother Theresa House (Nov 21). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518306962690-4GQA8MUFDX0PGNX0XDE2/india_lowres128.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Visitors come from all over the world to pay their respects and honor the great deeds of Saint Teresa of Calcutta. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307064276-W5VTFF3XO77IT9SFAH4B/india_lowres142.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two The centerpiece of Auroville, the Matrimandir, or Mother’s Temple, designed in the likeness of the lotus flower (Nov 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307032217-8E819U2OPO3PPSQBZN8X/india_lowres132.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two With rented motorbikes, we were free to explore the dusty roads of Auroville. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307006516-EEVMNBAO07PBVR5U5TJ9/india_lowres129.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two At the experimental town's visitors' center, we learned more about the founding of this peaceful community. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307014179-I3YDS2CYO04V78UISOGY/india_lowres130.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two After weeks in India, we thoroughly enjoyed the fantastic western coffee options available in the cafes around Auroville (Nov 25). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307023497-ZKNYWM8VMUC1K1HP47F9/india_lowres131.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Aurospirul is an eco-friendly social enterprise, created to cultivate and process spirulina - a tiny algae that contains extremely high levels of protein and other essential micronutrients. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307058240-H0M1YKZ4FFGITYYMC93U/india_lowres140.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Auroville is a universal city in the making, dedicated to the ideal of human unity, based on the vision of Sri Aurobindo and ‘The Mother.’ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307072268-3M9P7YFY2KKUJPIIB998/india_lowres143.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two The delightful Samarpan Guesthouse and a beautiful mandala that welcomed us at the entrance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307079296-YP6H20W1GRB71JEXVWDR/india_lowres144.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Trey took full advantage of the cool breezes and views of the Bay of Bengal to be had from our studio balcony. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307127029-IKJYRZZTKOLXAD3KR5DB/india_lowres133.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two The biggest Mahatma Gandhi statue in Asia is found in Pondicherry, the seaside former French colony (Nov 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307137479-O9FYPWWJMOWXBWATKH8L/india_lowres134.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two French heritage is alive and well in the charming old town of Pondicherry, which has worked to restore the colonial buildings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307144339-3M5GIUEEC5UU6EXYO6H4/india_lowres135.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two The whimsical Café Des Artistes serves up some great Americanos. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307155092-VGC0B54O8T7BYQMMQQNY/india_lowres136.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Wild honey being sold from a honeycomb on the back of a man’s moped! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307163081-AQZFHG2NFW4I8FQMXC8P/india_lowres137.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Pondicherry exudes charm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307173622-CL0OCRDADNXPP1BGQVF8/india_lowres138.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two The busy Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Pondicherry happened to be having sermon by the Archbishop himself. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307185617-D8QAYKR358DNJD6H1FI9/india_lowres139.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two French colonial architecture and pastel colors are replete in this town. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307227267-YYWOX56D87DYB72OCOTI/india_lowres145.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two The view from our backwaters river boat cruise in Kerala (Nov 30). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307236214-JL8GS3MLC8ICXNLDUHQS/india_lowres146.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Feet up, Kindle in-hand, we loved this laidback cruising. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307244157-Y4F4GKM5D9SBPE6EAB22/india_lowres147.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Working even in the pouring rain, this boatman has a clever umbrella hat to protect him. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307250854-U7M0SG35VY45DP9URTWU/india_lowres148.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Our fearless boat captain, braving the rain brought by a cyclone out in the Arabrian Sea. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307258432-7IGLM5CJCTXCT8GJ4KHT/india_lowres149.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two Children playing soccer on Marari beach, our final destination in India (Dec 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518307264666-CLTZLJGIFQCEU98H38D7/india_lowres150.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part Two A group of Keralan men took in the last rays of light as we said goodbye to India (Dec 3). http://www.jrny.life/countries/2018/2/9/the-many-faces-of-mother-india monthly 0.5 2018-03-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518229836495-S0JI2LNPX8AU7CCD9COZ/india_lowres151.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One The rugged shore and laidback vibe of Goa was exactly what we needed after our travails in Nepal (Oct 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518229752481-HAYALKGFV6TJ8IM7BMZO/india_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One A mesmerizing dance of starfish on Palolem beach in Goa. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518229758197-3FK3QF3TISCHYXHTOFYL/india_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Cows taking a rest on the beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518229768255-RDSNQHQ8G138XDZMPAC3/india_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Beach dogs have THE life here in Goa. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518229778171-BC8UII3F5MJQVKRRIVT0/india_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One The silent disco at Palolem is meant to be a lot of fun – we arrived just before season. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518230081469-ZKRBBJ8P9A22MALBKQPV/india_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Crumbling remnants of Mumbai’s (back then was known as Bombay) colonial heritage can be found throughout the city (Oct 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518230089370-SFYXIHSFGZ7TBEICOU86/india_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Trey taking a break to enjoy his coffee in the Kala Ghoda neighborhood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518230852252-72WJYMPIPVZ77I3PN551/india_lowres152.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum, the grand Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (or "King Shivaji Museum") houses more than 50,000 exhibits of Indian history. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518230096435-M3CFSEMJLKRFQV72QB4D/india_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Magnificent India Gate, where many Indian tourists requested to get selfies with us, giving us a glimpse of famous life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518230120817-SRZQA4AALBTBQRC0GRY1/india_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One The Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum is the oldest museum in Mumbai (Oct 28). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518230128297-KJE6E5KWHO3C0073AM02/india_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One It was established in 1855 as a treasure house of the decorative and industrial arts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518230135754-S1LRCDUCR6R5P7E3MX89/india_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Formerly known as the Victoria & Albert Museum, it was renamed in honor of Bhau Daji, who was an Indian physician, Sanskrit scholar and an antiquary. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518230869459-87LV9HKWU9RYOC75MBAJ/india_lowres153.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, previously known as Victoria Terminus, was built in the late 1800s in Indian Goth style and still houses the central railway. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518230877537-QVK9V8N70KZKGGTD06NU/india_lowres154.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One One of many famed cows who live amongst the crowds and traffic of Mumbai. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518230859309-ZVBKZOKVMQWTCIJPA3XX/india_lowres155.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One We fell for the beautiful architecture of the Portuguese houses in the Khotachiwadi heritage village in the Girgaon neighborhood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518230177430-QM8FBPFI9K6QKMCW7WVN/india_lowres15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One With its Latin heritage, Catholic alters adorn this vibrant neighborhood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518230885136-9QNNZSM14CAJITZTJJAQ/india_lowres156.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Another glorious example of the heritage architecture found throughout Mumbai. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518230185311-W5YNGGABX00APS645Z9A/india_lowres16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Vendor after vendor of books line the streets of this market in Colaba. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518230192171-VYBKBNWCNAD75PQKX8F0/india_lowres17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One A sunset stroll along Marine Drive capped a beautiful - albeit hot - weekend exploring Mumbai. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518231729611-D3BWUQFAXTCZHB7RX9PG/india_lowres18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Our first evening in Amritsar, we stumbled upon a flashy, technicolor parade honoring the holy (Oct 30). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518231740169-NELJ1FIKF4O5EH04QFCW/india_lowres19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One In order to enter the Golden Temple, men must cover their hair and remove their shoes – here, Trey gets fitted with a bandana. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518231749291-FA5516F5TB194SPKX6H1/india_lowres21.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One The Golden Temple, resplendent in its evening glow, seemingly floats atop the holy waters that surround the sacred inner-sanctum. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518231755618-U1K9MUVM62ZNFI29BMGC/india_lowres22.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One It is customary to walk the porticos that surround the Golden Temple in a meditative prayer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518231762687-8JAUYIRAJFDX7BNFESWW/india_lowres23.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One A parade continues outside the Golden Temple in honor of the Hindu gods. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518231769847-J6GDCGRMXJHCKXEHF3SK/india_lowres24.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Some even adorned with live props - snakes! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518231778391-7BTFW0VHV5809LLR3RML/india_lowres25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One In the comings and goings of thousands of pilgrims, this man requested we take a photo of his message. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518232235071-ZQNJLPBZ64ENOXME6U3K/india_lowres26.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One McLeod Ganj is the residence-in-exhile for Tiben refugees, including His Holiness, the Dalai Lama (Nov 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518232242943-5TRWLTPXLWZDJ7YCBL94/india_lowres27.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One The Tibetan Museum is a gruesome reminder of the brutality of man. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518232254615-5TLG8AK6J1824PJ8JEYV/india_lowres28.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Tens of thousands of Tibetans have perished at the hands of the Chinese government’s hostile takeover of Tibet. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518232454626-K381EHHSS3PZSX7C90D0/india_lowres29.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Trey sitting at our favorite coffee shop in McLeod Ganj – Moonpeak Espresso. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518232462389-AK6H8RNVMZ2FPBCMRLSN/india_lowres30.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Martin wearing a Tibetan shawl and taking in the sunshine on our roof deck, overlooking the Buddhist village in the Himalayas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518233392618-BPU0QBXBDIHF7VK4QFI7/india_lowres157.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Climbing barefoot into the rose petal covered rooftop in Old Delhi was a magical moment for us both. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518233052122-OJBDMA0O84UNG9NYF9R4/india_lowres31.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One The incredible Old Delhi Tour, organized by our fabulous friends at Le Méridien New Delhi, gave us a behind-the-scenes, insider’s view of life in the old town (Nov 6). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518233058557-YEDAQ6QH50A2V31NM1KT/india_lowres32.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Pigeon gaming is a very competitive (and allegedly, highly addictive) sport that has keepers calling their flocks every morning from their roofs in Old Delhi. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518233066463-QATB885M6KP972SQ7MM4/india_lowres33.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One The fragrant flower market of Old Delhi is a sight to behold (and smell!). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518233073923-IXF6XZKHFVUHVM1DZO1D/india_lowres34.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Spices, nuts, dried herbs and fruits can be found in the stalls of Old Delhi. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518233080178-8FQRP48W6CC2B1CE3R8V/india_lowres35.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Trey taking time to smell the roses. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518233089498-JOCRQY9TXHMH12QXH5RE/india_lowres36.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One The beautifully refurbished interior courtyard of the Old Delhi haveli owned by our gracious host, Dhruv. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518233095938-4U6GSCS73LL65QNDEAGG/india_lowres37.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Lodi gardens is a stunning oasis within the city and the site of tombs for the Loti family, rulers of parts of northern India and Punjab from 1451 to 1526. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518233101067-JYZJSK1FNL4XYU05YD1K/india_lowres38.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One The tomb of Shisha Gumbad can also be found within the garden grounds. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518233106803-HYPX3G02GFHT65U7IIAO/india_lowres39.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One India Gate sits within an impressive pedestrianized grounds in the heart of the city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518233113961-JW1MO4BQXA71R39PEPKV/india_lowres40.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One The impressive Lotus Temple is a Bahá'í House of Worship, open to all, regardless of religious affiliation (Nov 7). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518233128731-RIZ0I3OA3BSFZI9MNBXN/india_lowres41.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Inspired by the lotus flower, the design for the House of Worship is composed of 27 free-standing marble-clad "petals" arranged in clusters of three to form nine sides. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518233141011-XIE5IS3XNRACQQUHPKFD/india_lowres42.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Used to all the picture requests by now, Trey makes friends while visiting Delhi's Hare Krishna Temple. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1518330934298-8RZ0PMB2I6Q1LJHVFO1B/india_lowres158.JPG .DESTINATIONS - The Many Faces of Mother India - Part One Communications (and color) strategists - Trey and Anjali reunite in the lobby of Le Méridien New Delhi. http://www.jrny.life/countries/2018/2/1/trailing-the-root-between-two-stones monthly 0.5 2018-02-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527412826-9JJ1R9EOQ68DRFY6NRRC/nepal_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones As we entered the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA), we began our trek in the lush jungle lower-lands of the Annapurna Circuit (Oct 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527419684-RZ8IGMPDJKM6OR9G64E8/nepal_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones This aqueous, fertile region hosts a number of stunning waterfalls and impressive cliff-connecting suspension bridges (Oct 3). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527425621-FFY01KPBPCL3I0Y6LGOK/nepal_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones First things first. As we hike, we must check-in at the ACA checkpoints along the way - this one was just outside Tal village. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527429833-D1LET7B6E6NEEJBNUL6F/nepal_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Trey giving the Tibetan Buddhist prayer wheels a spin (his first of many!) on our way out of Tal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527437486-FWXNB0LH690F4MK3SJ5H/nepal_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones The stunning greenery and misty, almost mystical nature, of this landscape enchanted us as we walked on. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527444964-1CNW8Y8SY5MQIP21E39U/nepal_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Trey fording and forging ahead! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527455533-HV3TG8J2Z96NQ1H1K8N3/nepal_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones First of many, many suspension-bridges we would cross around the Circuit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527464326-QAI3HYGIYKPWS5GAFDZY/nepal_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones While October is considered the ‘dry season’ and optimal for hiking, we did manage to get a stray shower or two that first day, but we didn’t mind seeing that beautiful water flow! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527471927-1C789LGPYZXGOEYZX5B2/nepal_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Soon, the skies cleared as we departed from Chame village as the Annapurna range started to make her snow-peaked debut (Oct 4). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527481594-LMB1YH9QE5XBAAR3D9KE/nepal_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Early on, we certainly weren’t alone – especially in the mornings when most hikers headed out for the day's adventure on the trail. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527491972-RP8JF7RJYJIB00TR2EG9/nepal_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones The beautiful, mineral-rich waters of the rivers in the ACA flow mighty and frigid. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527500683-MAWPES40N0LOLSTAH2OV/nepal_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Martin taking in the stunning, surreal beauty of the wind-carved mountains. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527621011-NE027XXAY8V85AKG3BKB/nepal_lowres13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones We were fitted out for this seven-day sojourn, hiking poles and all! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527629479-TMAAPO7T52ISDPFNJYSK/nepal_lowres15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Trey taking in the view over lunch in Upper Pisang. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527644648-QUVUG284SP1OK4OS2RNB/nepal_lowres16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Upper PIsang with its preferable south-facing vantage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527651200-QRZ3WH1ULHOTDDFG5ZK1/nepal_lowres18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones A stunning pre-dawn vantage of the range from our guesthouse in Ghayaru (Oct 5). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527658786-RDH8E2DXIGTIJTPB1W2E/nepal_lowres19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones View from the kitchen of our guesthouse in Ghauaru. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527667681-FVPDUH7HK459IG2QTD3L/nepal_lowres20.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Seeking more blessings for the trail ahead – Ghayaru. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527675598-X40KQXLY0MFNISLEYI8P/nepal_lowres21.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Inscribed stone tablets adorn Buddhist gompas and holy sites throughout the region. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527689998-HRWRXF50KXE5QHR84HW2/nepal_lowres23.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Tibetan Buddhist prayer flags adorn the mountainsides and holy sites throughout as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527697908-4LPU7GU7C1BKK1QDREF3/nepal_lowres24.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Incense burning ceremony based on the lunar cycle for blessings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527707145-SKNWUVC643RGJELLJSFG/nepal_lowres25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones The landscape changed dramatically as we continued our ascent, becoming more arid and dramatic. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527715291-WIEU6PFF90NCZLO21VZT/nepal_lowres27.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Martin can’t help but hug this particularly beautiful specimen along the trail. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527722887-2SB2S5EK5GMH0AGR40G7/nepal_lowres28.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Trey taking in the resplendent beauty of one of the understated holy Buddhist gompas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527798761-2Y646D5W9SBA5T08IB8U/nepal_lowres30.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Stopping to take it all in. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527805818-ESX8C9TTL1SVYJXHSE0Y/nepal_lowres31.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Our daily dal bhat – each guesthouse has their own take on the intentionally simple meal of rice and lentils. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527813924-5J9XUGTGLHEWBXCGHYSN/nepal_lowres32.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Our hike into the regional capital of Manang during ‘golden hour’ brought us spectacular views of the valley. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527823942-DOZ9V0MJQS91MJD31DKA/nepal_lowres33.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Work horses taking their rest in this idyllic setting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527880589-CWA90PYF0OYCDW0PFXX9/nepal_lowres34.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Meeting new friends along our ascent to visit Praken Gompa, our day-hike for acclimatization (Oct 6). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527888763-CDBR7KWHG12W7NI1QJHB/nepal_lowres35.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones The 100 Rupee Monk, a holy hermitic Buddhist nun who offered us blessings for safe passage over the Pass. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527893680-XI70MCCI1YX1XG9ZOXN0/nepal_lowres36.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Her modest home may be isolated, but the views are out of this world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527901896-LRJZENTVPTOXPITXACU1/nepal_lowres38.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Rush hour! Our departure from Manang brought us even closer to village life as we officially depart territory covered by ‘the Road’ (Oct 7). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527918160-74O7N0IN8L79RVAKR5FU/nepal_lowres40.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Beautiful views and adorable ‘tea houses’ line the circuit, making this one of the most charming multi-day treks on earth! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527903402-J1S80HUCD281VTN0SF60/nepal_lowres39.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Seabuckthorn juice (the berries of which are harvested in the mountains here) contains about 15 times the amount of Vitamin C of an orange as well as dense amounts of carotenoids, Vitamin E, amino acids, and dietary minerals – a natural energy drink! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527926823-AFODSS8T7MZE63VUEXEU/nepal_lowres41.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Trey leads the way over yet another suspension bridge. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517527936120-1P100UR39ZSVGJD4HMIN/nepal_lowres42.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Blue sheep kept their distance while investigating us from above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517533236843-J6RMJDODO24SWEET4UFA/nepal_lowres43.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Rush hour along the trail continues - this time with cows instead of goats. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528005509-GDQJU0386LGYSDPACH72/nepal_lowres44.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Martin taking a moment to appreciate the beauty of the range above Yak Kharka - and a hike without the pack! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528014720-5X0TM7JF6NSJOKNRYNLI/nepal_lowres45.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Early morning shadows as we made our way toward High Camp (Oct 8). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528079023-2YEH99HQUVLR2DY792UQ/nepal_lowres46.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Watch your footing here! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528109863-RKXICPKKC2NLXID5G8IZ/nepal_lowres47.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones The landscape at High Camp couldn’t be more desolate and divine. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528116097-R4K4EVUNETVFFW56BMCA/nepal_lowres48.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Bundled up for our pre-dawn ascent, we got one last offering of prayers at a gompa just above High Camp before crossing the Pass (Oct 9). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528126740-QJZ6V7NJUFBWE67747EC/nepal_lowres49.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones It snowed overnight, and we were delighted by how the landscape had been transformed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528134951-TDQXSEJSY4YCF21A1GO3/nepal_lowres50.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones It truly felt like we were on another planet – visually and atmospherically – as we remembered to take it slow and breathe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528142538-VTTUGPLVHO1OVRV5ZXBZ/nepal_lowres51.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones At this point in the hike, we were completely freezing, but as the sun started to shine on the peaks, we were hopeful for a bit of warmth to come. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528152342-RDDVONZOWCUIU8MYA6V5/nepal_lowres52.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Following the snow, the skies were perfectly clear and we could even see the moon above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528193509-KTVEZCF0XDAOLCI5PKUW/nepal_lowres53.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones We made it! 5,416 metres, a week and a lot of determination! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528200882-PSBG7LO4FXX1D71XWXGA/nepal_lowres54.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones We took a moment to enjoy this accomplishment, together! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528233250-BJOCGHYC7AG1HXQC8U3X/nepal_lowres55.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Buoyed by our ascent, we now faced the reality of what goes up must come down. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528222704-N2VYBLVMQX8T7GJDAWBX/nepal_lowres56.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones And dooooown we must go! 1,700 metres of monotonous, switch backs in fact… to that small village in the distance amidst the green. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528248610-VB8HE8FXN61O8BGUJ74G/nepal_lowres57.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones In Muktinath, we were greeted by an enormous Buddhist statue just as we finished the week-long journey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528256296-XP3BKCBMZKV857DLQCW4/nepal_lowres58.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Our 17-hour return journey was largely spent on this shock-less artifact of a bus. We highly encourage you to take the short flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, instead. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528355717-9FOZ6P4VYT4LDARRSJI1/nepal_lowres59.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones An auspicious start to our time in Chitwan National Park was viewing this pair Greater One-Horned Rhinos drinking and bathing in the river (Oct 14). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528365042-HIXH2ZOEIADD6DT7NGTD/nepal_lowres60.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones The pair headed off for an evening swim. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528376510-MAWRB86JW7Q3WZSYPE69/nepal_lowres61.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Our knee buckling dug-out canoe journey brought us in close proximity to these river crocodiles (Oct 15). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528384185-1ROJMJBFADQRZ1KEU6U6/nepal_lowres62.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones We were lucky to see both species of rare crocodiles - the Marsh Mugger and the Gharial - while in Chitwan. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517537104450-G2F5KP4SFNMYU08I1SF8/P1210901.JPG .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones Any fears of jungle predators were refocused on avoiding leeches (!!!), which tended to like Trey more than others. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528392483-32BKA226FQ014Y5RFNPJ/nepal_lowres63.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones While on foot, we spotted a large male rhino beating the mid-day heat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528401953-8XRQP6HCALWN7S4W92T2/nepal_lowres64.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones According to our guide, these were claw scratches of a Bengal Tiger, marking its territory. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1517528411317-BSK9KPGA8AC75CERK7HX/nepal_lowres65.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Trailing the Root Between Two Stones The majority of our walking tour was spent wading through exceptionally tall grasses – can you spot the hide of a rhino in the central background? http://www.jrny.life/countries/2017/12/22/sampling-spain monthly 0.5 2018-02-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513956527546-ESXEHCZ9SSMDNFWOPBUW/spain_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain First thing we did when we arrived in Barcelona was head for patatas bravas and fried egg with jamón at Bodega Granados (Sept 18). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513956914560-0UP95I6EAA5TJFRA70PT/spain_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain Spires of the awe-inspiring Sagrada Família, imagined by Antoni Gaudí back in 1882 with construction that continues even to this day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513956925257-JYTMV7Z0ERVXC9FBZ6G1/spain_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain The landmark Sagrada Família cathedral consists namely of Gothic and Art Nouveau architectural styles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513956938014-DTS2KUIKRQJNGFDDB144/spain_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain Another masterpiece by Gaudí, Park Güell was constructed between 1900 to 1914 and opened as a public park in 1926. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513956945413-V64178Q7P3EPKNERG9IK/spain_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain The hilltop park is renowned for it’s colorful mosaics and unusual surreal design elements. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513956956676-DPPU7ZT57M6Z6X6IGX2X/spain_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain Valencia-style paella enjoyed with our friend Crystal at the fabulous seaside restaurant, Xiringuito Escriba. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957008855-VIGKJD96YY7FX9P3NCFU/spain_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain Martin purchased our tickets for the world’s largest lottery, “El Gordo,” at La Bruixa d’Or shop in Sort, Spain – the locals were entertained by his unique take on Spanish (Sept 19). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957016005-MKYHV6PMBZFHP4YLNKPC/spain_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain Rubbing the nose of La Bruixa d’Or (the Golden Witch) is meant to bring us good luck! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957023384-WHZST9K7AODUGBS2PH69/spain_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain Crystal and Trey taking flight! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957034856-QYF2ZHM0C2CEU3RTIIOB/spain_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain Crystal enchanting Martin and Trey with stories from her adventures around the world! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957045944-XT13G3VKZZV9CN0KE2RV/spain_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain Nothing’s better than a road trip with friends! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957056925-SK9AM2XPN458TN79P7W3/spain_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain This heart-shaped window shutter in the tiny mountain village of Son caught our eye. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957066287-QX1L1QY8AY100PD391BZ/spain_lowres13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain Martin takes a break from driving to take in the view as we entered the Pyrenees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957075066-F2VKIVLWSXI13X8FWY7H/spain_lowres14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain The breathtaking view of Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park from the Spanish gateway town of Torla. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957084609-4XL05C6IYMPTCAO7XXLI/spain_lowres15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain Trey enjoys the view of one of the three waterfalls we discovered during our ‘three waterfalls’ hike along the Rio Arazas at the base of Ordesa canyon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957093235-GDXKF1PZ18HY41V8YKAY/spain_lowres16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain The Ordesa canyon formed over millions of years of erosion by the Rio Arazas, developing an impressive cascade of waterfalls along its course. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957115745-Y1D2QTP6MFAKGV7ZFSV5/spain_lowres17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain The park covers an area of more than 156 km² and is among the most important national parks in Europe, and yet possibly one of the least known – and we loved it! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957130234-E4J0OHZGBYX1XHEEXXL7/spain_lowres18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain The Park encompasses three deep limestone canyons Ordesa, Añisclo and the Garganta de Escuain, as well as the Valley of Pineta. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957198404-T8U9X4Q3AZC85O8UQSAM/spain_lowres19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain Throughout Spain’s Solana Valley there are many ‘ghost villages,' abandoned in the 1960s and 1970s due to governmental land usage, changes in agricultural practices, and General Franco’s push to move the country’s youth into its cities (Sept 21). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957213025-OIRNX0JK0XT3P1A06VUK/spain_lowres20.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain We couldn’t help but spend an hour wandering the abandoned village in the late afternoon's golden light. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957223604-BYQGML8XHJSJ5ITB9FJZ/spain_lowres21.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain The town of Aínsa sits in an area of immense natural beauty with sublime mountain scenery that attracts hikers and climbers from far and wide. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957238116-2RRI3Y5D3ZOXKBEGZHRE/spain_lowres22.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain A few kilometres to the north, a great snow-streaked crag (known as the Peña Montañesa) towers high above the village, creating a spectacular backdrop (Sept 22). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957246639-DYDPXZQXT7A8V9ZJ4YO2/spain_lowres23.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain Our charming apartment was nestled in the heart of the old village center and offered unparalleled views of the mountains beyond. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957255025-JPY8PYPSAURV2HDFTPH1/spain_lowres24.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain Aínsa’s history stretches back to the 11th century, and its medieval character runs deep through every stone. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957263715-OM3NWLCPNQ2U8VK9N01L/spain_lowres25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain The village sits at the confluence of two rivers, the Cinca and the Ara, in the foothills of the Spanish Pyrenees in Huesca, Aragón. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957271081-QOXJNNMKFVUAY29UXG2W/spain_lowres26.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain As we made our way to Madrid, we stopped in Zaragoza to take in the baroque Nuestra Señora del Pilar basilica, a famous pilgrimage site overlooking the Ebro River with a shrine to the Virgin Mary (Sept 23). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957280755-J7EF2WI8136TO7EOIGQR/spain_lowres27.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain Multiple church structures have occupied the site, each one larger than the one it replaced, but today the basilica is the second largest church in Spain (Seville’s cathedral is larger). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957355090-FPVSXR0MBWF710IV2PZI/spain_lowres28.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain The cobbled streets of Madrid’s colorful and multi-cultural Lavapiés neighborhood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957363454-OXWMC3DB151ND0M3X7CS/spain_lowres29.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain The Royal Palace of Madrid is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family; however, the current King and Royal Family do not reside in the palace as it is used for state ceremonies only (Sept 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957372615-NG3GAHOYG4K248GRGG1K/spain_lowres30.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain Madrid’s magnificent City Hall adorned a welcoming banner for refugees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957385426-B3VITI4AFZOCBSCY6JE6/spain_lowres31.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain The Paseo del Prado, one of the main boulevards of Madrid, happened to be closed that morning to motor traffic allowing pedestrians to take to the streets! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957393226-SQ8R5G9XASGSJ44XFZ4D/spain_lowres32.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain Martin taking in the ’20 Fotopres’ photography exhibit at CaixaForum which featured the works of emerging photojournalists. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957400944-D1HZDUQURUSCN96VEQBN/spain_lowres33.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain Trey getting lost in the impressive collection at CaixaForum. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957439710-13HQ3S4CEZ9ZCUJVJQF0/spain_lowres34.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain Martin trying to climb the Green Wall, a project of CaixaForum; it’s 24 metres high and contains 15,000 plants of more than 250 species. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957593394-ZLADB2ZVQ8LPVXECD8GG/spain_lowres35.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain It was certainly autumn in Spain, and chestnuts were falling from the trees in El Retiro park, bringing Martin back to his harvesting days in Italy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957606505-EL46DG3WO5CMW3G4DEDI/spain_lowres36.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain We fell for the chic Paseo del Arte neighborhood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957614753-7JAXKDLOVD91K0R0TLOD/spain_lowres37.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain Forced to travel with Kindle over these past months, we couldn't resist the charm of an old used bookstore. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957621764-3O5XGXPCBIF5UXMLLRXM/spain_lowres38.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain Our last breakfast in Europe of the year of avocado toast at Pum Pum (Sept 25). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513957632199-75F5797KI8BMWX0LE0SF/spain_lowres39.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Sampling Spain We’ll be dreaming of the fabulous café and coffee culture of Europe in the months to come on the Sub-continent! http://www.jrny.life/countries/2017/12/22/vive-la-france monthly 0.5 2018-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951445598-1GINZZ9ICBUC0AXLZSSL/france_lowres+1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! Arriving at our home for the week in Aix-en-Provence: we love Airbnb! (Sept 7) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951462618-CPDAOG0CAFXPEQ6DVXTC/france_lowres+2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! Part of a larger chateau, our little guest cottage had a wonderful outdoor patio for enjoying those perfect September days in the South of France. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951476080-9U5KAL1SO2SGHFJHTXLT/france_lowres+3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! No chateau is complete without an adorable double-hung farm door to allow in the summery French breeze. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951484666-I7QSZA7MIJVW9ACECYOH/france_lowres+4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! Is there anything better than enjoying farm fresh, local products in the fresh air? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951493661-7OF8A8SHSWND07ZAPQTE/france_lowres+5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! Our kind of heaven – the Aix-en-Provence fruit and vegetable market (Sept 8). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951502296-HKR9JZLXY6I5TZDGFYUO/france_lowres+6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! Every day is market day in Aix! We happened upon the fruit and vegetable farmer’s market several times while in town. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951511666-BZU52PUFYOX52JIJ0SS5/france_lowres+7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! Martin pretending he’s a local by practicing his ‘restaurant’ French. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951529018-QTRXM9VRZZ1L0CSOZ27U/france_lowres+8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! The main market, located at Place Richelme is now a daily market, while there are a few additional ones at Place de la Madeleine and Place de Precheurs, open on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday – because everyday should be market day! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951537285-1J66M0KXGOQZSRXD0JSE/france_lowres+9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! Trey taking it the market on one of our many visits to town for provisions (Sept 9). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951546647-1UBW2ERVMW501NQMYJ6P/france_lowres+10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! A daily flower market can be found in Aix’s l'Hôtel de Ville, with the exception of the first Sunday of each month, when the square is given over to antiquarian and second-hand books – how dreamy! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951558147-HXNMLHQ1U28HG6PQ418R/france_lowres+11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! Look at those vibrant colors - you can almost smell the fresh cut lilies! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951588406-SHGBQWZW98Y8HIT6WBGI/france_lowres+12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! The Prêcheurs-Madeleine-Verdun complex of squares in the Old Town has been completely renovated and pedestrianized allowing visitors to wander without worry while taking in the beauty of this ancient once Roman town. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951598576-DE7ORC5RJYP3BTMYHRYD/france_lowres+13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! Ah, the beauty of a simple snack of local cheese and fresh grapes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951687128-UYODITAT8DTTA8OQB276/france_lowres+14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! The stunning Camargue Park and Plage de l'Espiguette has miles of rugged coastline and protected dunes (Sept 13). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951696445-MSU4IIGI4L1AZKH9YSR8/france_lowres+15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! The Calanques National Park, established in 2012, is one of the newest parklands in France (Sept 10). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951707354-H2XAN993FLQTIC2QH04L/france_lowres+16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! A calanque is a steep-sided valley formed within karstic regions either by erosion or the collapse of a cave. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951716595-PEQX9U7O2IO7HKSM5MRJ/france_lowres+17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! Trey taking in the picturesque view of Gordes, considered one of the most beautiful villages in all of France. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951724261-SIE2KQPLUQ5B7WSJC1WE/france_lowres+18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! The stone buildings of Gordes are built tightly against the base of the cliffs or perched on the rocks above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951734122-DI418961ECJ72QIXQDKF/france_lowres+19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! Trey strolling the cobbled streets near the perimeter of the old town’s medieval wall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951743305-7YXLGDRVKNSXA6VF1Z2G/france_lowres+20.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! We couldn't get enough of this beautiful sea green color found all around the Mediterranean! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951753106-UML975YEEVORP6GXR17H/france_lowres+21.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! A visit to Gordes isn’t complete without a stop in at the 12th century Sénanque Abbey, renowned for its fields of fragrant lavender (recently harvested here). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951760291-8K0WSKGOD603ICUWO8U7/france_lowres+22.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! In the 1960s, monks turned the abbey into a business, so it could become economically viable. They created two principal industries: lavender and honey. They also allow people to stay as guests on a retreat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513955876061-KQWV75H6ATAHGT7J8MGT/france_lowres+23.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! Les Amis en France! We felt so fortunate to have our dearest near us. Here's the gang exploring the adorable village of St. Paul de Vence (Sept 16). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951811996-7193MCMJGKGWEKBX3I4E/france_lowres+24.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! A candid moment while visiting the Fragonard Parfumeur in Grasse. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951823535-4MHIMXB1YJWQ36OBW8WF/france_lowres+25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! Established in 1926 by Eugene Fuchs, Fragonard makes their products in their own factory and offers perfume making classes, which we thoroughly enjoyed! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951836300-8URD3V420HP189Q1ELQY/france_lowres+26.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! The crew taking in the evening sun in St. Paul de Vence. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951846776-SXXPPU6DI98NH19EVHUE/france_lowres+27.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! We continued to be inspired by the beauiful markets in France (St. Paul de Vence). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951855507-T9AS2A3YQ2TWG5PQY1CG/france_lowres+28.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! Our friends Leah and Mike buying provisions at Vence’s farmers’ market for our evening’s feast. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951862186-P6V8GUKGR0BAC0EVZS5C/france_lowres+29.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! The day’s finds – we still can’t believe the size of that côte de bœuf! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951868057-420OE5EP3Z2ECFC0AMBU/france_lowres+30.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! Too many cooks in the kitchen? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951874916-7SEN02P7EIC497GZ9F2J/france_lowres+31.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! Our grill master, Leah, taming the "cowboy cut" côte de bœuf. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951881667-75A1W6YFQZDHF2UY8C0U/france_lowres+32.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! Santé! Toasting a gorgeous meal made together with friends. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951888028-2HS75T5FHAMJ3YHTTN8K/france_lowres+33.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! Our final day in France was spent with friends in the best way we could imagine – at the Paloma Beach Club! (Sept 17) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1513951894876-7C0T16B6EOO2DP8XXBV8/france_lowres+34.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vive la France! Sharing our final meal in France, there’s nothing better than dinner with friends! http://www.jrny.life/countries/2017/11/8/circling-central-europe monthly 0.5 2017-12-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220604890-O1J24HCF1V1HY5T8G8CX/hungary_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Arriving in Budapest, we were awed by the grand architecture, like the former Gresham Palace, now a Four Seasons hotel (Aug 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510224259955-V6APDMMZYLFZOYPRDPRO/P1180685.JPG .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Not only are Budapest's trams adorable, they are super easy to use for seeing the city's many sights! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220617327-4BK6YGLF9LZ89BQEM94R/hungary_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe The Danube River separates Buda from Pest with many iconic bridges spanning the water throughout the city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220629715-T1P30N1F3HJE7UM68VW0/hungary_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe View of Fisherman's Bastion, located atop a hill on the Buda side of the Danube. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220643646-11NB863NWX0K2G9QLX7P/hungary_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Strolling the Danube, we passed "Shoes on the Danube Bank," a memorial to the horrific events of the mid-1940s when Jewish people were ordered to remove their shoes before being shot and falling into the river. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220658632-DX3PT2TN562RFMFXVO0C/hungary_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe The stately and imposing Hungarian Parliament Building is the largest building in Hungary and tallest structure in the city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220667123-8C6359NM1EVSZDGYVPSY/hungary_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Statues surrounding the extraordinary building represent Hungarian leaders and military figures from the country's history. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220683788-58SEYHTP3Z0W4SW1X3YL/hungary_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Just over 100 years old, the Hungarian Parliament Building used more than 40 million bricks, half a million precious sones, and 40 kilograms of gold in its construction. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220709361-93JUE0BZ95SAZ1C2S8TJ/hungary_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Hip Rumbach is full of boutiques, cafes and bars, and lots of creativity, including street art (Aug 25). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220734919-JVNQKXJD6JZD8SMT6ZO2/hungary_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe The famous St. Stephen's Basilica is named for the country's first king and supposedly houses his right hand. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220746557-5YH7RGG4IJAMRC8DERUC/hungary_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe We had to sneak a scoop of creamy gelato from famed Gelarto Rosa, which shapes the good stuff like petals. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220757718-CLKOJVF96C4C69G907N7/hungary_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Always dramatic, a daytime Buda view of the Hungarian Parliament Building provides a different perspective. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220775344-KLYUML5Q0JJXNGBFYF94/hungary_lowres13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe The jaw-dropping Peter Mansfeld Monument on the Buda side memorializes a teenage martyr of the Hungarian revolution. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510224426669-506KRY8JS7P0XGXJ083B/P1180757.JPG .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe After climbing many stairs, we arrived at Fisherman's Bastion, a historic Buda terrace that overlooks the Danube. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220790643-9KG0DFI2UD7TNL8UYRTZ/hungary_lowres14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Matthias Church, constructed in the 14th century, stands at the front of Fisherman's Bastion in the Buda Castle district. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220807626-9YGTSTDS9FD1C2YGINHH/hungary_lowres15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Sandor Palace, just north of Buda Castle, is the official (and more modest) residence of the President of Hungary. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220832276-JUFV4R7VWTQLJRLJCKQK/hungary_lowres16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Built in the mid-1700s, the extravagant Buda Castle served as home to Hungarian kings and leaders until the early 2000s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220910389-FEIF283PM0983MQVFIIS/slovakia_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Large, beautiful murals adorn the city’s walls as part of the annual Bratislava Street Arts festival, spotlighting local, talented artists (Aug 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220934595-GKJRSC4YGHD81XDWO4F9/slovakia_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Maximilian's Fountain (aka Roland Fountain) is the most important fountain in Bratislava - and arguably in all of Slovakia – commissioned by the Royal Hungarian King Maximilian II in 1572 as part of a public water supply project. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220951304-DVRM4T5V01R9BTI64OQB/slovakia_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe We ambled for hours around Bratislava’s huge cobblestone pedestrian zone. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220964492-V2H2HYN21UDG7USI7448/slovakia_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe 1) Looking up in the old town! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220973674-CPL6JTHC4WS500DZALSU/slovakia_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Bratislava Castle, perched atop the isolated rocky outcrop of the Little Carpathians, has lorded over the city for centuries. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510220989661-IJ786UI3HVIHUKRP3YSY/slovakia_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe The area in front of the castle is called Yard of Honor and is bordered by two triumphal gates and guard houses of the imperial guard. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221002967-B6ZSRKW728ICQI3CRQDA/slovakia_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Affectionately called the ‘UFO Bridge' for its otherworldly appearance, the domed structure perched atop the Most SNP Bridge over the Danube River houses a trendy “Mediter-asian” restaurant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221013935-JSDSQT14MPA40T6DHP32/slovakia_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Of course, we had to check out St. Martin’s Cathedral! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221045262-DT8QN7NO6JJ2DJC7HV38/slovakia_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe En route to the lovely and very local restaurant in the Western Tatras, Salaš Žiar, we immediately felt the calm of nature all around us (Aug 28). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221065104-9VJ301KQ4756AEP8DXNZ/slovakia_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Driving along the country roads in the Western Tatras, we stopped to enjoy the gorgeous verdant valleys. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221084791-IDJIYSX224SP1RDHNUQO/slovakia_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Trey helped map our adventure in the Western Tatras before we left our little country cottage for a day of hiking (Aug 29). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221109516-TM5FVTFXXYWKQ6GDI8KN/slovakia_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe The path before us in the Western Tatras, the hillsides covered in beautiful purple flowers that had gone to seed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221143975-QAND1XTAAMXEYD3GL481/slovakia_lowres13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Trey showing us the way! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221189550-SQDL7QWR4HWP2B79VXI7/slovakia_lowres14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Martin taking a moment for mindful contemplation on the moss. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221215315-6Z3OKEH7XY8RTNANFRB7/slovakia_lowres15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe On our way to the very popular Popradské Pleso in the High Tatras, we couldn’t get enough of the mountain range that enveloped us (Aug 30). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221241315-OCOC6E9J4KD2HDPDUSYU/slovakia_lowres16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Resplendent waterways keep this region lush and green. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221261951-U68NQ2YXE4XON2ZOBD4B/slovakia_lowres17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Martin is stopped in his tracks by the beauty of the Tatras. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221272169-OJPF5Y3GXHLHH9L0ZKCX/slovakia_lowres18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe One morning, we found a basket of gifts from our Airbnb hosts - local pears and a book on the history of the country. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221286118-12QNB1V3N8CCKAM3KMKY/slovakia_lowres19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe We loved our old Airbnb farmhouse amidst the Tatras countryside! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221345709-P98IOQ6WMAAZLN4C9JGC/poland_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221364506-MJUQX25VBIF4HA7PGYIF/poland_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Arriving from Slovakia late in the afternoon, it was golden hour in Krakow's Jewish Quarter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221391320-MJ6DK29TANRCWKOG60G0/poland_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe We happened upon a market festival celebrating Krakow Honey Harvest & Bee-Keepers, which felt like kizmut as Martin had just finished reading The History of Bees by Maja Lunde. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221409643-3RQLI6521DTQKEWHIMHL/poland_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Dubbed the sweetest festival in Krakow, you can find all sorts of bee-related goods for everyone! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221427324-193OZT2X7RZ85TBL7IIP/poland_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Since it’s origin in the 11th century, Wawel – or known simply as The Royal- Cathedral has witnessed many coronations, funerals and burials of Poland’s monarchs and strongmen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221450878-CBK3GPLH03Z8YY0KGSAL/poland_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Trey getting lost in the Italian-style main courtyard of Wawel Castle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221474020-YLLFEN4VRN7A2PHI2S90/poland_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Statue of St. John Paul II, who hails from Poland, outside of Wawel Cathedral. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221494360-PNE0CVSPWEU9WGXPKMT4/poland_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Florian’s Basilica in Krakow is where St. John Paul II began his holy calling as parish priest many years before being named Pope (Sept 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221509754-G3COD2YGWQPSL2RMBYXO/poland_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Martin’s Catholic upbringing compels him to light a candle in prayer in just about every church we enter, most notably in this, the home church of his childhood Pope. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221542217-KEZ1JVQIFPC0XHZFJAGY/poland_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe The Krakow Barbican is one of the few remaining relics of the complex network of fortifications and defensive barriers that once encircled the royal city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221567614-CKAS6WR18ET4G8U702IB/poland_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Statue of the famed polish artist Jan Matejko known best for his paintings of notable Polish political and military events. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221582257-7VA1XOZZ5OGAUYWXPV1S/poland_lowres13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe A wonderful recommended stop (thanks, Jasmine!), the beautiful Massolit Books & Café is an independent English-language book shop located in Krakow's old town. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221602403-QV629IPL9QYQB4EK7HZT/poland_lowres14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Such a warm and inviting space, customers browse the shelves and read books or periodicals in the café or in the furnished back rooms of Massolit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221623903-MBT7IX0KFAEXD3FLWUQ1/poland_lowres15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe The gates to hell at Auschwitz Concentration Camp read, "Arbeit macht frei" is a German phrase meaning "work sets you free" (Sept 3). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221653156-NFLGR2CNU7398VLRREOJ/poland_lowres16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe The camp's 16 brick buildings were guarded by towers, barbed wire and warning signs painted with skulls and crossbones, called totenkopf in German. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221669819-RJWWQYBAJIE0N2OFAWZV/poland_lowres17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Zyklon B, which was used as a pesticide in agriculture prior to WWII, was the chemical compound used by the Nazis to murder millions in their concentration camp gas chambers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221699074-SG2L84H7AI5BQIDKV7G3/poland_lowres18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe In today's divisive world, important to recall this famous quote from Sir Ian Kershaw: “The road to Auschwitz was built by hate, but paved with indifference.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221758693-U6F66YDPMRJ7CKGGX3IS/czech_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Stopping for coffee in Olomouc, we visited the historic Town Hall, which we found under repair (Sept 4). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221781861-BDHJTA7Z7UP0DG34S9IA/czech_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Olomouc’s Astronomical Clock is quite different from it’s sister clock in Prague - deemed the ‘Communist Clock’ for its Soviet era proletarians motif, Olomouc’s original 15th century clock was destroyed by the Germans during WWII and rebuilt during communist rule. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221800901-0BYVJYCE59ENMWHOC2JV/czech_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe The Holy Trinity Column in Olomouc's main square is an 18th century Baroque monument built to celebrate the Catholic Church and the faith of the people. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221815615-2XBJHJIR5NUOGBTDEEGJ/czech_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Beautiful Mercury Fountain (Merkurova kašna) was built in 1727 and one of several examples of Baroque fountains in Olomouc's historic centre. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221831298-EENU6FP2PCPHBKBSOUJ0/czech_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe In Brno, we feel for the food at busy and trendy Skog Urban Hub. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221854340-TMTT8WA92A0QP1T5B058/czech_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Cabbage Market Square in Brno happened to be having a local farmers' market the day we visited! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221868785-3KEOBOZOAJYPZ2BAC6U6/czech_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Like its nearby neighbor, Brno also features an impressive Holy Trinity Column in its Cabbage Market Square. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221888965-0ALKP2P4J90TJKS8ALTD/czech_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Cathedral of St. Paul and Peter in Brno dominates the city high atop Petrov Hill. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221900546-55LW5K343K07WERDSBLO/czech_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Sunset view from our cabin atop the rolling hills outside of Radějov, Czech Republic (Sept 5). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221915387-D6CYOROE19N3H7RM79VK/czech_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Some days you deserve breakfast in bed! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221960069-55MFOFQ1ZRFXQSVRQ9NS/austria_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Opulent Karlskirche (St. Charles's Church) is a baroque church located on the south side of Karlsplatz in Vienna (Sept 6). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510221986171-O56QL0QUQIRTJQWCINB8/austria_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe St. Stephen's Cathedral, the seat of the Archbishop of Vienna, is found in the city's old town – the tile work on the roof is awe-inspiring! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510222003011-I5UK2F3D83TVQMFLDCRZ/austria_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510222017577-KSCR99L8Q8E6PU5Z6M3W/austria_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe The elegant shopping district near Michaelerplatz. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510222029241-1TZVR3265T9T01CVEUJA/austria_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Vienna's stunning Burgtheatre is one of the most important German language theatre’s in the world and features magnificent staircases painted by the artist Gustav Klimt. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510222042960-LM9V63O9T80HN8T0B78N/austria_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Wiener Rathaus is the Neo-Gothic style city hall of Vienna and houses the office of the mayor as well as the chambers of the city council. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510222052152-3KOJNRHFG72NFCLIPMQ9/austria_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Gay, lesbian and straight couples adorn 120 crosswalk lights of Vienna, a sign of the city’s open-mindedness. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510222071791-R5FCZ2RC75QF8GRRG9KN/austria_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe We couldn’t resist strolling the rose gardens of the idyllic Volksgartan park, which is part of Hofburg Palace. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510222087879-DR83K3SH2MDOL34K8NMG/austria_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe The impressive Museum of Natural History Austria houses some 30 million+ objects https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510222103079-RW5LAAAGNRPGPOF515P7/austria_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Mumok is a cutting-edge modern art museum in the city's Museumsquartier. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510222115972-6U3SUVMZBXSVBKML4V7R/austria_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe We just cant help visiting a bookshop in every city we visit – Phil, in Vienna's Mariahilf neighborhood, has a cozy atmosphere and serves a wide selection of drinks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510222135119-OXNP18AACX7YJGQEK4CS/austria_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Phil’s outdoor seating was as busy as inside until it started to drizzle. :/ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1510222148505-FWK8O34GXIADNJDZ56B8/austria_lowres13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Circling Central Europe Ahh! A nice, large mug of ‘Grandma’s tea’ (ginger & lemon) at Vollpension capped an eventful day of sightseeing in this gorgeous, grand city. http://www.jrny.life/countries/2017/10/11/the-balkan-beat monthly 0.5 2017-11-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507791379143-CKEC5775FNGUD5QOAML3/croatia_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat From the 'sweet life' in Italy, we arrived to busy Split, Croatia, and took a ferry to the farthest village on the farthest island off the Dalmatian Coast, Komiža, Vis (July 28). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507791401040-RK7TPJP9OS166CEZF9KG/croatia_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Sunsets over the bay turned this old Croatian fishing village orange. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507791476478-SUCKGY4MTC4LOI0Y2IP0/croatia_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Doors and shutters throughout the village were painted a pale sea-foam green, which we adored. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507791557647-T71W29XF1QP2RETH6SZN/croatia_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat A long walk around the bay and down a steep cliff brought us to our own little slice of heaven, a private beach amidst the rocks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507791601408-2ASX0BHZYILUCN8YCO5T/croatia_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The panoramic view of the Adriatic as we made our way each morning to our little alcove on the shore. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507791678277-Y8Q6HXVLE5B22LV9L9FN/croatia_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Not only was the old village quaint but beautiful churches and buildings dotted the landscape across the island. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507791700357-JV0QA9V3TJ8K6YSQOF6B/croatia_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat We loved the peek-a-boo views of the bay in-between buildings in Komiža. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507791787797-EYYAA1KH865IQYUNSM22/croatia_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat During our time on Vis Island, the European heatwave began to creep into the Adriatic, causing us to spend most days wearing as little as possible. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507791857512-35ZFEPE600MX7SJITBNF/bosnia_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat After our island holiday, we arrived to picturesque Mostar in the country's southern Herzegovina region (Aug 4). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507791890607-FH46XIZ6PPV5LKC23C8R/bosnia_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Walking the steeply curved Stari Most (Old Bridge), a medieval arched bridge from which the town Mostar gets it's name. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507791917971-N8HPA5HIYBLU1T6PKEJ3/bosnia_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The realities of war were a present reminder throughout ravaged Mostar with marks of bullets on many of the town's buildings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507792059723-N6505T990K17M284OUY4/bosnia_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Charming Mostar was badly damaged during the Bosnian War, including the Stari Most which had to be rebuilt during reconstruction. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507792115114-VIZ9Q3Q5UZB5EWDNA8M6/bosnia_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Many burnt out buildings are still abandoned amongst the rebuilding and new construction throughout Mostar. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507792175199-D7EFTZUEEPP2FC8SQHV7/bosnia_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The unfortunately named "sniper tower" for its role in the war has become a canvas for street artists offering messages of peace, hope and unity. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507792203466-K53UIA5FOABPPIRFUHAZ/bosnia_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Vibrant murals and artistic expression cover the still empty shelled out high-rise. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507792276285-MCTPND2RSZT68Z92JF1N/bosnia_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Locals and tourists alike attempt to enter the building and make the dangerous climb to the roof, which offers sprawling views of Mostar. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507792313168-EBKUMVVC16FUK06MR1C6/bosnia_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Amidst the rubble and sad reminders of war, Mostar is rising as a popular tourist destination and cultural center. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507792437244-S3MXFHROVCYXP79MKOE7/montenegro_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat After a quick visit to Dubrovnik, Croatia, we found ourselves in lovely Kotor, Montenegro, which sits at the tip of the winding bay in the middle of the Dinaric Alps (Aug 7). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507792786244-F9QW8U9IAI6LZ37WLOZC/montenegro_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat There are numerous churches inside the old city walls of Kotor, such as the slight Church of St. Luke, which was built in the 12th century. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507792802030-P4WQ0RY63MULVTMJR2XR/montenegro_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Inside the Church of St. Nicholas, which was built in more recent times, an impressive display of religious icons decorates the alter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507792824739-U9EYN8UI0S51JT5ZFOF0/montenegro_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507792868585-CJQ71MV7OUBTQ0HG1MO4/montenegro_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The winding 28 kilometre long Bay of Kotor produced some magical vibrant sunsets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507792898085-JFXO8U736A4AI5GSX7X5/montenegro_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The fading sun turned the mountains and hills surrounding the Bay and Old Town bright pink. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507792918055-3BN2VHO6AO1Z5OPFW2W2/montenegro_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The cliffside views overlooking Montenegro's famous Jaz Beach (Aug 8). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507792960606-JBS52NB3WTV2GP5C314I/montenegro_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Just south of famed coastal playground Budva lies the dreamy islet of Sveti Stefan, which is now home to an exclusive 5-star resort. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507793006242-ZATUAP7IDB5LB740LX7E/montenegro_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat From Montenegro's coast, we drove up into the interior near the former capital of Cetinje, which was surrounded by burning forest and smokey hills because of drought and heat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507793018873-SZ2GJDNCZFJ2Q641W3FZ/montenegro_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat We were happy for the cooler relief of Lovćen National Park, which is home to the high mountain of the same name (and backdrop to Kotor). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507793028421-3FT9GFHQ0DMTM9FV1IUJ/montenegro_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Lovcen is home to Njegoš Mausoleum, built on the park's second highest peak (1657m) honoring the country's greatest hero. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507794602014-FULT7OZ9XJ6UZA7UAWGN/montenegro_lowres13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The high vantage provided breathtaking views of the landscape, which once caused George Bernard Shaw to exclaim, ‘Am I in paradise or on the moon?’. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507795716169-6A3PKV01ZA9S9ZDT3B2K/montenegro_lowres15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Many locals make the holy pilgrimage up the many stairs and steep trails to Ostrog Monastery, which has been built into a near vertical cliff (Aug 9). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507795756061-5J0RBJTC8FADEZ3O9N2D/montenegro_lowres16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat As we made our way to Plužine, the roads became more narrow and un-guarded, hanging on to the cliffs high above the Piva River below. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507795817523-XOGN8731DHZH6119JBO5/montenegro_lowres17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The twisting roads passed through numerous tunnels, rough and unfinished, carved from the mountainside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507795831954-W9SCA02AOX10TNFY0YJX/montenegro_lowres18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Our small yurt on Lake Piva, which was dammed in the mid-1970s, afforded striking views of the water and sunset. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507795847214-XYM7LAP16UCTOQ31BXCX/montenegro_lowres19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat A local getaway from the extreme heat, Lake Piva was busy with activity during the day but calmed as the sun fell behind the hills. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507795883386-5U1XE5IHQX7Y2EK236C6/montenegro_lowres20.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The next morning, it was more tunnels and tight turns as we made our way to Durmitor National Park in the country's north (Aug 10). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507795924177-1V6DGARGEZPDG1VBYNLW/montenegro_lowres21.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat As the roads climbed up, the views of Lake Piva in the morning light were truly stunning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507795953814-MHTNIHXEOM4OROXUBCWM/montenegro_lowres25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Although Durmitor became a protected national park in the mid-1950s, many farmers still toil the land and raise livestock in the hills. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507795975518-GHFPRS6QKL8YVM2OD0ES/montenegro_lowres26.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Flat fields of harvested buckwheat offered great views of the surrounding peaks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507795996758-9O2RBWEE9ON30ZO4E7U6/montenegro_lowres28.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The awesome landscape of Durmitor massif boasts more than 40 peaks above 2,000 metres (6,500ft). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507796017344-6JA0RRCTXFEPQ6OY5O99/montenegro_lowres29.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Besides sheep, we saw a lot of cattle grazing on the lush fields (a difference from the dried up lands at lower levels). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507796042936-Q67MT0N5CXPD4GOZCNGT/montenegro_lowres31.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The park afforded many opportunities to stop and soak up the incredible views. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507796059929-17ENIK4FRO8X9BI39PXL/montenegro_lowres33.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat One of our favorite views was of Sedlena Greda peak (2,227m) with horses grazing in the fields below. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507796085992-7FF2T81L4768IEM6WO29/montenegro_lowres34.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat We ended our day of road tripping with a picnic high above the famed Black Lake, one of the park's many glacial lakes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507796122225-JVFSD7VNHG6PRICA5IS1/montenegro_lowres35.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The next morning before we hiked around the Black Lake, we grabbed fresh mountain berries from the market stands at the trailhead. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507871663007-G6F2KIMEHP8ON2VFDIXN/montenegro_lowres37.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The calm waters of the Black Lake reflect the dark greens and blues of the evergreens and pines beyond. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507796222277-MRGSBFTT3Y3MB5EMVI8B/montenegro_lowres36.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat One of the beautiful country roads that led through Durmitor park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507796273909-1SRYIN5225BJ3AVF7PIR/montenegro_lowres39.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat In the Durmitor region, lies Tara River Canyon, Europe's and one of the world's deepest gorges. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507796319879-YXZYJBQLM2Q1YG3V2T19/montenegro_lowres41.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Our final park to visit was Biogradska Gora National Park, site of one of the last three virgin forests in all of Europe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507796344767-ZTT3QFAQAVI0PFHD5Y5C/montenegro_lowres44.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The Pavlova Strana Viewpoint, near the country's capital of Podgorica, offers views of Skadar Lake and the near prehistoric landscape (Aug 12). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507797701391-UIPKX1CIKLDA8912FFE9/albania_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Our first stop in Albania was Shkodër, just across the border from Montenegro and one of the Balkan Peninsula's oldest towns (Aug 13). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507797740146-CFVLPWBWHHM5TDEWX8SX/albania_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Like cities and towns everywhere, old men gathered on the green to play cards and dominoes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507797757469-9D6R7677TA3GMAF9NNYN/albania_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Over time, Shkodër has retained its importance and relevance in the region due to its position close to the Adriatic Sea and Italian port cities. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507797825342-EOTD91KW2L2UO0216IX5/albania_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The next day, we took a ferry up the Koman Reservoir, which is surrounded by near vertical canyon walls, toward the village of Valbona where we would begin our trek (Aug 14). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507797799095-AW7DTMIU308H22KWS8C1/albania_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Lake Koman, created in the late 1970s, completely fills the valley between the forested hills and steep cliffs, with many different animal habitats along the way. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507797862927-76ZUDKD2MD3TLU0HY62G/albania_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Quaint and charming Valbona, Albania, sits in Valbonë Valley National Park in the country's northern corner and is home to less than 1,000 permanent reisdents. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507797910500-GBKKBR6TWBTMYZVLCLOY/albania_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat We used the afternoon to stretch our legs on the many trails around the village and take in the beautiful scenery of the valley. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507798047642-PN1DIC341QV6298U5KYR/albania_lowres15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The next morning, we began our day-long trek from Valbona to Thethi, crossing the Accursed Mountains into the neighboring valley (Aug 15). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507798019896-ZGYK9M5TWIDRBGUOTCQL/albania_lowres14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The trek takes about 7-8 hours and follows an old mule path, still in use by some even today! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507798087707-FU6BL87LK02VRW77Y1OF/albania_lowres17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat At the pass, some 760 metres (2,500ft) above the Valbonë Valley (and some 1,000m down to Thethi), we were met by a local pup who roams between the two villages. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507798113195-QNPU4G9HYBFBNVSOT7KS/albania_lowres19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat At the top, we looked out over the Valbonë Valley to take in the incredible views and revel in the accomplishment of how far we'd come. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507798155687-UP51BV0NJL9XHQ8XEU2Z/albania_lowres22.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Hooray! We made it! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507798191214-GWW1ECAEMO3TG6JGN7QG/albania_lowres25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The village of Theth is more traditional, and stands out in this Muslim country for its history of Christian tradition which its inhabitants brought with them some 350 years ago. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507798257874-Y66UJ44JE2ZC3QVUDLYB/albania_lowres27.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Nestled in the Thethi Valley, the Church of Theth was built in the late 1800s and still stands today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507798280465-3KP1UKU6ZEGNM3GVJH7S/albania_lowres28.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Still remote and hard to reach, we had to take an SUV up and over rough roads and trails to make our return to Shkodër, but we once again enjoyed panoramic views. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507798870945-NRI6MV7NJ4MJV9IQZHMU/slovenia_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Arriving from the southern Balkans, Slovenia was a relief in both temperature and lifestyle of more traditional European villages, such as Kranj, our fist stop (Aug 18). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507798387452-FUXGWEPKRU0SGQAYECZK/slovenia_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Just outside of the country's capital city, Kranj offered an alternative artsy side with street art, galleries and boutique shops. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507798355495-MXNADDCJ90LLYEOC6BWT/slovenia_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Our adorable Airbnb in Kranj, Layer House, was part hotel, part cafe, and part art gallery. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507798855881-JHN1G832JT86YECR1DA9/slovenia_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat During our visit, Layer House had curated a gallery of works coming out of the Bosnian War. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507798886211-7BGJ6JCVZO5MS2GUZEQU/slovenia_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The lush green rolling hills and Alpine scenery of Slovenia was a drastic contrast to the dry and arid landscape from which we'd come. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507798952384-TTS69XN6KLFIYLGA5G23/slovenia_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat We started our next morning with a hike around Vintgar Gorge, a 1.6KM gorge just outside of Bled (Aug 19). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507798989426-194I4JPS5WEGPEWCBXMX/slovenia_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The Vintgar stream has eroded the limestone cliffs to create rapids, falls and steep canyon walls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799007221-GZXN3ICF2R1OCM9VDH4Z/slovenia_lowres15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat We were so happy to see rain and misty landscape later in the day! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799023773-HO2NF0492HO6AWQ3XYBA/slovenia_lowres18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat We enjoyed a fun Saturday night catch up with friends overlooking beautiful Lake Bled. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799039049-2ZTOM6DJ0QYNOEURB60I/slovenia_lowres19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Sunday provided clearer skies and a fairytale view of Lake Bled, set amidst the Julian Alps (Aug 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799056106-9JKM951AY3NKCBPKH1KO/slovenia_lowres20.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Because of its location, Slovenia is at a cross-roads of many different cultures and trade routes, which is showcased in its architectural varieties. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799089531-P61TI0WBR5D0KTM7JAHH/slovenia_lowres23.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat We spent the day at Slovenia's largest lake, Bohinj, which was active with kayaks, volleyball and cyclists. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799118670-DNX9ZZ5MW3CXUL298X3H/slovenia_lowres25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Nearby, we hiked up to Savica Waterfall, which cuts a deep gorge and feeds the headwaters of Sava Bohinjka. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799190127-RI6K6LG0EFEDP5889F4Z/slovenia_lowres27.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat In the cool evenings, we enjoyed walking the small roads that led through green pastures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799220951-X2EME5SS6U2I1S4T9I0E/slovenia_lowres29.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat We continued on, driving higher into the Julian Alps, which were named for Julius Caesar who founded a municipality at the foot of the impressive mountains (Aug 21). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799257712-M7T0O6CID4UB48KZHKIR/slovenia_lowres30.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat We drove toward Vršič Pass on what is now known as the "Russian Road" for the one-time POWs who helped build it along with small Orthodox chapels. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799345217-O14FFT2U9VOTOSJHS85E/slovenia_lowres33.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Martin blended in to the natural landscape of the mountains, both a swathed in green. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799379886-IMJ5EJXPZ1KK6HJ39J7Y/slovenia_lowres34.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Vršič Pass at 1,611 metres (5,285ft) is Slovenia's highest mountain pass. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799391789-RRUMH97UW1BNMLH4MRRT/slovenia_lowres41.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Returning back to Podkoren, where we'd spend the night, the setting summer sun turned the surrounding mountains beautiful shades of pink. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799414660-DKSYKOHLC9SX3KO7TFY9/slovenia_lowres42.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The next morning, we made the ascent to Tromeja, the triple border region in Slovenia's far northwest which offered scenic views (Aug 22). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799434875-HM8WJ2VATOEHDOOTSGSQ/slovenia_lowres43.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat At the top of Tromeja was a marker defining the borders between Slovenia, Italy and Austria. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799461503-IID0M2BZC5RSRCHBDSJH/slovenia_lowres44.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Even cows have itches they can't scratch--we loved this beautiful breed of Slovenian cattle! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799489612-0REQQ5WVO5NDHKMT4BBE/slovenia_lowres48.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Completing our circle of Slovenia's west, we returned to the country's attractive capital city of Ljubljana. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799514823-YI998YRVXAH788IIP3ZD/slovenia_lowres50.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Ljubljana's Castle Hill offers extraordinary views of the old city as well as a close up look at the historic building itself. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799530910-H5EJZU8XXOAY2D4EKUJM/slovenia_lowres51.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Crossing the Ljubljanica River, the city's stately Dragon Bridge was built in the early 1900s when Ljubljana was still ruled by the Austro-Hungarian monarchy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799547192-IIMT7YYG5N6VA5Z8H1BH/slovenia_lowres53.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Ljubljana also had a youthful, creative edge including large warehouses that were used by artists. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799565400-BOQX18JLFPDOY5PIFXIG/slovenia_lowres55.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat The city offers a lively waterfront, chockablock with cafes, restaurants and bars, perfect for an evening stroll. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1507799593238-FNUB4U6WOSKWRR1RTCOY/slovenia_lowres56.jpg .DESTINATIONS - The Balkan Beat Sunsets throughout our time in the Balkans impressed, but we couldn't think of a lovelier place to end our journey than here in delightful Ljubljana. http://www.jrny.life/countries/2017/9/30/living-la-dolce-vita monthly 0.5 2017-10-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506765666301-RPZIBNE2I04I7NA5I2A2/Italy_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Our first stop in Rome was the Vatican, where we stood in awe under the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. No photos were allowed, but the Map Room was also fantastic with ancient frescos of Italy (July 12). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506765681293-PDNAWYEND8DYUJH730AW/Italy_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita There was so much gilded beauty to behold at the Vatican museum, but we loved the simplicity of this spiral staircase. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506765757607-VEH5W2PLXG4KSLMMX7BP/Italy_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Vatican City is a tiny country within the city of Rome, so for fun, we mailed something from the post office to Martin's Catholic parents! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506765776384-MDWZDUCEOFI7HVW1V3EA/Italy_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Literally 'la dolce vita.' Our first tastes of Italian gelato on this trip were divine. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506765696413-IS5DC5U3DL7NVEFKT6E5/Italy_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Gluten-free Trey under a restaurant poster bearing his culinary mantra. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506765864673-6F1SL4UE586NGJLWJLNB/Italy_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Up early to beat the crowds (and heat), the rising sun was a beautiful backdrop to Rome's ancient Colosseum (July 13). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506765882413-Z3SZB8YCGQC03RMC5T1N/Italy_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita A stroll through the Roman Forum unveiled many an antiquity and ruin. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506765895994-JK4R1939U6ZEWF3Y6COI/Italy_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita The next morning, we climbed the city's famed Spanish Steps along with many other tourists (July 14). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506765917426-H05GD6WGKWINDRLN849P/Italy_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita A common sight given the unfortunate events of today's world, Italian military lined the streets along the city's tourist zones. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506765931226-4W5SMKFRWIDOC9541S5U/Italy_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita The Trevi Fountain had stopped running but was still breathtaking to behold. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506765949875-HGGI5SP5MM94VH379POK/Italy_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita We had a delicious homemade pasta lunch at Osteria da Fortunata, thanks to a recommendation from our friend George! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506765965196-PAW38IMPSIW96TYM1F7N/Italy_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Colorful Piazza Navona is an iconic Italian square and has been featured in movies and literature from Dan Brown's Angels & Demons to National Lampoon's European Vacation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766049506-TG5MZWGXV0THOE0XH0OB/Italy_lowres14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita We couldn't believe our luck, arriving to our oasis among the olives--a quaint cottage with a killer view (July 15). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766074958-YLQWBZQIS02ARU6Z6Y6L/Italy_lowres15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Italian espresso, a shaded terrace, and a charming setting away from it all--heaven! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766091207-RLD2W8IPJ8Q9APQKTZD2/Italy_lowres16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita We spent several days here at Maremma National Park where we laid in the sun and floated in the sea (July 17). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766107473-4UYZ59HQ6JQD5X9LEHKE/Italy_lowres17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Maremma is rustic and wild beach with seagrass and driftwood dotting the long strip of sand and fortress towers and rust-colored hills beyond. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766133024-T5IUHC43TOMHAG3MAB16/Italy_lowres18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Come along on this journey with me! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766156041-FOSAVOA9ATGS3MMVTU2V/Italy_lowres19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Other days, we took short trips around the area. For example, Vie Cave, which are ancient trails cut through the Etruscan hills (July 18). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766029862-T8Y9HVN9OZ6D98PS7VBM/Italy_lowres13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita The village of Pitigliano appears to be carved straight from the rock upon which it sits. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506769258363-TZKQ2HYMVI4702Q52ADR/Italy_lowres22.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita The village was full of tiny stone streets where two people walking could barely pass one another. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766202903-SDWPCAF5QVNGH6ULDUIA/Italy_lowres21.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita An affogato in this village will come out as a true treat! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766350980-T0ZYGSG0EG0NBWGB981L/Italy_lowres23.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Tuscany is teeming with farms of all types and fields upon fields of upturned soil ready for seeding. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766371710-IT0664JCYT9N9B67U4UW/Italy_lowres24.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita We made use of the kitchen, cooking many of our meals like this rosemary pork and rotini pasta dinner. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766393251-1MCPOIX1HKEDX1IKF7XN/Italy_lowres25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita With temperatures soaring, we once again found ourselves at Maremma, finding shade under the same driftwood structure (July 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766412444-ORH25NWM0UYXS8Z0OZ2J/Italy_lowres26.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Farmland leads into Maremma Park with Italian-bred Chianina cattle grazing in the fields. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766434650-WWDU5FTK2HOAL2KSIFC6/Italy_lowres27.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita A last meal of baked eggplant and lemon and parmesan pasta as we bid farewell to our Tuscan home! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766496169-8UH3HA5KYLRWM0MYN2NV/Italy_lowres28.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita As we made our way east, there was rugged, dry farmland as far as we could see (July 22). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766515290-CREOB317UPH564Z3K659/Italy_lowres29.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Dusty roads cut through dried-up fields along our route through Val d'Orcia. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766534282-1BWPWRO99NI9ZZ4Q6147/Italy_lowres30.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Big white fluffy clouds dotted the blue sky against yellowed fields, creating a real life Tuscan painting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766545827-LP7YIHRIDGPTIL2J1SQG/Italy_lowres31.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita After lunch in Pienza, we treated ourselves with a stop by the local gelateria. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766565109-W0F5COQUV2E62Q683VWH/Italy_lowres32.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Pienza offered panoramic views across Val d'Orcia's classic Tuscan landscape. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766590655-IGA2ETOS1JXYNFRBBN4P/Italy_lowres33.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita While many of the famous sunflower fields were dried up, we did spot a few bright spots along our drive. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766614929-5AP9A0PP8IKXQNXZZLOP/Italy_lowres34.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Siena's broadly sloping Piazza del Campo with its sky-high tower is the perfect place to gather and meet friends. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766643070-6V1K0HE15L5PWYHDSDCM/Italy_lowres35.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita The town's green and white stripped marble Duomo is from the 1200s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766660822-YDCEPVJZ4WHX2JV8TP7X/Italy_lowres36.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita The doorway to Martin's former apartment in Siena where he studied abroad. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766682383-QGDY639CMAK3ZF0ZZG2X/Italy_lowres37.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Martin plays it cool as he returns to the site of his college revelry. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766692632-ARSLGKJTJHD9WLS92SWT/Italy_lowres39.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Nannini is famous for its ricciarelli almond cookies... we may have bought an entire box. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766715897-QA8CQ0CUR967C26XTRZZ/Italy_lowres40.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita As dusk began to settle, pretty Siena came to life across it's little squares and many statues. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766780416-ZEKD9T1UILGNAT1LACS0/Italy_lowres41.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita We fell for the small old town of Treviso, which we deemed Venice "light" with its own canals and sweet style (July 23). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766794196-Q5ZY7YZO0MZODTLK13N7/Italy_lowres42.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita A warm, sunny Sunday and nary a tourist in sight as we toured around this charming village. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766833604-PZGBDVKWA2D05V9ZR31A/Italy_lowres43.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita A small moat and park run along the historic city wall, with some green spaces home to bunnies--could this place get any cuter? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766886332-96DE85YXFTX44MHAS5F7/Italy_lowres44.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Not too far out of Treviso, we began our ascent into the Italian Dolomites (July 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766913126-7NL3BBV6ML7ADCGOLFTI/Italy_lowres46.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita A classic Italian drive, the smooth roads and steep curves made for a fun road trip. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766931482-A70SSTAX7UBMEGK62AXH/Italy_lowres48.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita As we went up, temperatures fell and flannel came out! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766952930-QSDZA8GVN55ZZRRVX6KD/Italy_lowres49.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita After the dry Tuscan landscape, we were amazed by the green valleys and lush pine-covered hills. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766977136-9HT4YPXBFCNUETWMZFC6/Italy_lowres50.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita The soaring rock formations are part of the unique Dolomite attraction. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506766992152-I0068CP42E57KM4PTT9Q/Italy_lowres51.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita The village of Kastelruth, where we spent the night, sits in the shadow of Ritter Horn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506767014393-JYACVY6NUZGZY81AY1AP/Italy_lowres52.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Not only did the landscape change but also the architecture (more Alpine) and language (with a predominance of German). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506767033930-P3TAEDY4O1LIJXC7T2ZN/Italy_lowres53.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita The next day, we hiked in the Forest di Fiemme with offered stunning views of the Fiemme range (July 25). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506767060440-1LRSZLZSZY4BD1T2Y478/Italy_lowres54.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita During our walk, we stumbled upon a colorful bee apiary, Martin's latest obsession. :) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506767088104-5GZIX5KQP5SW5IYG463I/Italy_lowres55.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita More scenic views from our walk in Forest di Fiemme. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506767131538-LMCFWW1NTMWDV91EOFOO/Italy_lowres56.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Coming out of the Dolomites toward Lake Garda, a sprawling valley opened before us (July 25). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506767155321-6NK21OWEQICOY96QKRJJ/Italy_lowres57.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Suddenly, the northern tip of gorgeous Lake Garda appeared. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506767173387-TU028YN719NBKTM21FGC/Italy_lowres58.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita We walked around the lake to the village of Sirmione, which juts out on a peninsula in the southern end. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506767195223-U8IEV163QXNS6SCMQA98/Italy_lowres59.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Sirmione feels like a storybook village with small fairytale castle included. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506767213775-Q1Q8YYHE1M7ON7NN4ZNB/Italy_lowres60.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita From the banks of Garda, we took in a magnificent sunset across the beautiful lake. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506767240950-RB7XX5B6ES33Y8XHZPNF/Italy_lowres61.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita The pink and white marble Colosseum of Verona, smaller but just as spectacular as Rome's (July 26). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506767250998-NTJPCSW22A6VY2K45977/Italy_lowres62.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Bologna was once home to many towers used by wealthy families for defense, and these are two famous leftovers, one with a distinct lean. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506767265503-WG90JYDAXXEOPNGM29NR/Italy_lowres63.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Bologna is also home to many lengthy porticoes, some 38 kilometres in the city's historical center. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506767307274-HTCE9B7C12OSK2GQHP1H/Italy_lowres64.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Our final day in Italy brought us to fabulous Florence and it's breathtaking architecture and history. Here, the famous Cathedral (July 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506767318786-QBZU1ZPWQ1D19MZNKVW7/Italy_lowres65.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita More gelato to be had! This time from a small shop across the Ponte Vecchio. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506767341558-R2J7Y6BDITHPVQEVZ80Q/Italy_lowres66.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita Florence's famous medieval Ponte Vecchio, or "Old Bridge" with shops that dot the arch over the Arno. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506767358709-CQSZNDWQCT77CGT4K74D/Italy_lowres67.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita A classic Italian water fountain with an un-classy dog taking a bath. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506767371728-IF6UN7XAM2NMH4Q757V4/Italy_lowres68.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita The spectacular view of the Florentine cityscape, including terra-cotta tiled Cathedral dome, from Piazzale Michelangelo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506767385874-JP2P3HIY3PFCFQWA5ANY/Italy_lowres69.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita We fell for Florence's La Ménagère, a hip complex of shops, cafes and performance spaces. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1506767402092-FINWU8ZGS6V0T3F51CU0/Italy_lowres70.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Living La Dolce Vita And finally, the pièce de résistance, the striking statue of David. We began and ended our Italian journey with Michelangelo. http://www.jrny.life/countries/2017/8/27/a-grecian-holiday monthly 0.5 2017-09-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233012570-39DTFGC5AJ0M873LDS3N/Greece_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday En route from our Airbnb to the Acropolis on beautiful Filopapou street (July 4). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233024401-RLHLEJ1LU8N2DPMR8I11/Greece_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday We couldn't get enough of the antique cars under beautiful blooms along the street! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233066830-51TFP9JZS4GHS0GAWEMR/Greece_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday We could fill a blog with photos of blooms and beautiful cars... https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233039052-TFFLI05C5HUTTC2P5GNT/Greece_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Signs of economic woes throughout the city remind us that Greece is still combating their financial crisis. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233080534-CY80EWHYJGJB79R9RYSE/Greece_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Some festive curb appeal... https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233412498-PNNNGWPF9B4COYK2QT4M/Greece_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Oh there you are... https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233314580-ONSQRW8GB35G4VAOSG2G/Greece_lowres16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday We stayed for hours marveling the ancient ruins. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233170261-6HDE7MRGDDX3KL9NF3XY/Greece_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Greek army soldiers at the Acropolis https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233203504-6SX7T7AQTNZW6ULHIBI2/Greece_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday While we were quite early, we still didn't manage to beat the crowds. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233209564-QKL63NRHXSPB2DUCYL3V/Greece_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday The Acropolis, or fortified city on the hill, dates from the 5th century BC. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233279062-XM719DG2OQFFEESK09R5/Greece_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Erechtheum Temple is on the north side of the Acropolis and is dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233211988-RNXGG9E09KF8C25D22TO/Greece_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Interior view of Erechtheion, named after the demi-god Erechtheus, the mythical Athenian king, was conceived as a suitable structure to house the ancient wooden cult statue of Athena. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233322018-72RGALMU0S4ZC9OG76F1/Greece_lowres17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday On the south porch of the Erechtheion Temple are six maidens, who take the place of columns in supporting the entablature. Now severely weathered and affected by pollution, five of the caryatids were removed to the Acropolis Museum in 1978. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233287595-K1M4V04JRX4ZAJVYUMDD/Greece_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday The erection of the Parthenon took nine years, however, has been in restoration by the Greek government since 1975. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233306505-Z1PQU6PW3WLA3ZOL0D9B/Greece_lowres14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Work began on the Parthenon in 447 BC to replace an existing temple which was destroyed by the Persians in 480 BC. The work began under the orders of Pericles to show the wealth and exuberance of Athenian power. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233331689-RCBPEO773ML5KOLSBDON/Greece_lowres18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday The Parthenon's massive foundations were made of limestone while its columns were made of Pentelic marble. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233295538-T37PN6FTSJEQSKHUOAP9/Greece_lowres13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday View from above of the Threatre of Dionysus, the god of plays and wine.   https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233342645-2JT15MO1J9QYSGOBV0MF/Greece_lowres19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Close up view of the Ancient Odeum of Acropolis, the Theater of Herod Atticus, which was built in 161 AD and restored in the 1950s. Since then it has been the main venue of the Athens Festival which runs from May through October each year, featuring a variety of acclaimed Greek as well as International performances. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233350292-GYM5XHHT71WCKRCAIWP4/Greece_lowres20.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday The Acropolis is located on a flat-topped rock that rises 150 m (490 ft) above sea level with a surface area of about 3 hectares (7.4 acres). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233371532-Q6VZFHCTBRL2QX42U91I/Greece_lowres22.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Ancient alongside modern - an archeological site we stumble upon while walking in the city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233375029-IB2UUCKP8HCESQ6T98XA/Greece_lowres23.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday The Changing of the Guard takes place in front of the Hellenic Parliament and Presidential Mansion. The Evzones, or guards, have become symbols of bravery and courage for the Greek people; they also happen to be literal giants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233376114-4P3582FH6TGBLCBFC7IV/Greece_lowres24.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Our first proper Greek meal brought tears to our eyes - stuffed grape leaves, fresh green salad and chicken meatballs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233520873-MLH0T7EDWKPAUVGZ8N0Z/Greece_lowres25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Our 'home' for the week on the quiet island of Sifnos, the gorgeous Aerides Boutique Rooms on Vathi beach was as close as it gets to beachfront. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233530831-0TAVP0INK4RGDUK2OPIZ/Greece_lowres26.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Our beautiful little bungalow complete with sprawling bougainvillea https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233540109-PG1281LWE29FD762ZCJJ/Greece_lowres27.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Just steps from the water, this home was once a fisherman's cottage and boat shed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233556797-ZLDXZBWKS1Q9V565DUXI/Greece_lowres29.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday One of the best ways to wake up in the morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233572856-2HT5H00M7Z90HTCJLMM4/Greece_lowres30.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Vathi is an old fishing village that until the late 90s was only accessible by boat (or donkey), lending to its laid back nature. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233581693-9M7KD7X134HDSF8PB26S/Greece_lowres31.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday The protected bay makes for gentle calm waters. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233609831-5SJF8LZN4GBFD7PRT4PI/Greece_lowres32.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Our entire week was spent reading, swimming and relaxing right here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233648625-5IX2R2OWE49NCKJ17B8E/Greece_lowres36.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday At our local lunch spot, Manolis, we dined al fresco under these beautiful trees! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233547460-C9PSG1DQBXFDU8FJ9MIA/Greece_lowres28.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Greek salad with a local Sifnos cheese which is made from goat or sheep milk - a delicious local take on feta! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233624141-SYWX24YYA8KNK4QR7V1I/Greece_lowres35.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday We enjoyed dish after dish of local fare - this was a delicious baked eggplant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233641528-ALO2MSUUWBRY2OSPQCQP/Greece_lowres37.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday We fell in love with this beautiful port, carving a trail between guesthouse, beach club and restaurant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233648625-8K2F2XJBK8VUAG2Q2EY4/Greece_lowres38.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday The beautiful church on Vathi bay catching the last rays of sunlight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233701436-GKWFZOI6S14F6WHMRHXO/Greece_lowres40.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday View of the ancient seaside village of Kastro as we ventured for our only excursion out of the bay of Vathi during our week on Sifnos (July 10). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233702968-GQPYLX749UTXLOFC5IU2/Greece_lowres41.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Walking to Panagia Poulati, we couldn't help but marvel at the church's blue and white. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233722978-7DIW6CQBNPB8HCCLIBCG/Greece_lowres42.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Martin taking a moment to enjoy the pristine waters of Panagia Poulati. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233715983-85WLZMME9KU7GWA38LAK/Greece_lowres43.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Built in 1811, the views of this church are truly remarkable. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233742961-LFZI1UQHCEAJTY79SAVF/Greece_lowres44.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Beautiful stone archway in the medieval village of Kastro. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233746087-B8DIUDW7JYKXG10601V9/Greece_lowres45.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Whitewashed homes within the city limits of Kastro, the town has been inhabited for over 3000 years and was at one time the capital of the island. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233748837-LVI6REAEHNV3PP0JOCD2/Greece_lowres46.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday We happily got lost looking for a lunch spot in this beautiful little village. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233772226-GRNC8U9PPTIJIUC0I2TV/Greece_lowres51.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Worth the search, we made it to the delicious Astro restaurant in Kastro, sharing a house specialty of meatballs and eggplant in a tomato sauce. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233752079-RZOX7QYUTI5YKWLE87E9/Greece_lowres47.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Trey taking in the view from Kastro out to sea. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233761267-9G6AFKVR9L4ZQYOOQBCH/Greece_lowres48.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Martin walking down towards Eftamartyres church just below Kastro. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233774422-CFCKI2EZPVAUO45JNHWK/Greece_lowres50.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Eftamartyres church at a distance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505233777255-UGEYC1ZYYWPXPMZ3M0VI/Greece_lowres52.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Ode to a Grecian Holiday Vathi Bay, we will never forget you. http://www.jrny.life/countries/2017/8/27/a-seoulful-weekend monthly 0.5 2017-09-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505142212357-CD95BJM7VBJF4DS03NMR/lowres_seoul8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend Our first morning in Seoul, we headed for Bukchon Hanok, the historic village of preserved Korean homes (June 29). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505142194949-96W0OVZSY4NLQQM1XSGG/lowres_seoul4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend K-Pop, or Korean pop music, is an obsession here, especially boy bands as this little shop demonstrates. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505142193728-TD3QC2WX06FIYCC4PDWS/lowres_seoul3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend This quote on the outside of a small concept store in Bukchon Hanok proved to be true as we continued our tour of Seoul over the weekend. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505142199479-FMTKW3SWLHGVB84TVWMY/lowres_seoul6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend The impressive wood rooftops of the hanoks boast giant eaves to protect the homes from sun in the summer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505142203099-1XOTP9TGDHOLA6Z1HSK1/lowres_seoul5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend While more than 600 years old, the sprawling village is still inhabited by locals who prefer this old way of life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505142210661-OCKBY2MJFDRT22YM3XL1/lowres_seoul7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend The village gently climbs the hills of Seoul offering panoramic views above the crowded roofs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505142584040-HYZKJULPBEGCTK20N8RG/lowres_seoul13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend As we sat for lunch at tranquil Balwoo Gongyang temple food restaurant, we noticed the beautiful Buddhist inscriptions on the walls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505142584371-87KWUIMCG3MHFCDGXK46/lowres_seoul14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend We opted for the tasting menu - so hang on to your robes! First up, the suljuksim, or amuse-bouche, of cucumber jelly with seven years aged kelp & persimmon vinegar, and juksang, or porridge, of potato soup with salted white radish. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505142587326-X9GYKSOH9FS2S2OHZAYX/lowres_seoul15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend Next, we were offered sangmi, or cold preparation, of stir-fried dried acorn jelly, seasoned Korean melon, and summer eggplant with ginger sauce. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505142594353-QXQSW899E5KXULL4M0JJ/lowres_seoul19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend One of our favorites was the dammi, or hot preparation, of deep fried mushrooms caramelized with special Gochujang sauce, topped with temple recipe vege-chips. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505142594354-MGRLS8Z2QX0X88Q2BCV1/lowres_seoul20.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend Our patient and kind waiter who walked us through each course and answered our burning temple food questions. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505142599037-DGTTDLY2W6RSE6RCFC5X/lowres_seoul21.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend The main course, or youmi, included seasoned thistle with rice, soy bean paste stew, two kinds of seasoned summer greens, and yangnyeomjang rice sauce. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505142599037-9RN7MUF9LL0QHZ2NN4C2/lowres_seoul22.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend Finally, a simple dessert, or ipgasim, of red bean jelly and toasted black bean tea. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143263160-RI48PKXZ91GKHJM3GJ07/lowres_seoul23.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend Across from the Temple Food Center, we visited Jogyesa Temple, the chief temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143263529-113EEC9UX6LZ1KYQEOCV/lowres_seoul24.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend Jogyesa Temple was a flurry of activity, notably the many potted lotus flowers in front of the main hall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143275096-T5T2ECXXSN1T4HRM72LP/lowres_seoul26.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend Upon entering, we were given a taste of special lotus flower tea, a clean and simple offering drink. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143266959-EI61SBWBHVIVZIC44KEI/lowres_seoul28.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend Many of the lotus plants had beautiful blooms that would be harvested for use in and around the temple. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143286436-X7LHY6A2GSI44YZJ1LD1/lowres_seoul32.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend The temple complex, which was first built in the 14th century, includes the Dharma Hall with an ancient tree in the courtyard upon which people were praying. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143507063-CLMRESW7T3JUKK9IH01G/lowres_seoul35.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend On our first evening, we made our to the famous Gwangjang Market, which was full and busy of both shoppers and diners. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143507945-XG9NZO5KPWIXTMJ00B6J/lowres_seoul36.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend We started with a steaming Bindae-tteok, or mungbean pancake. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143515882-CQF0S0ZXGP74G8IZIZ81/lowres_seoul37.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend We were then convinced by these lovely ladies to sit and enjoy dinner at their stall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143515662-GWOZ63MA5GSA06Z9S4QL/lowres_seoul38.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend Here, we tried gimbap, or seaweed rice rolls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143520837-FLIFFZV4BMAKBQ0P079U/lowres_seoul39.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend As well as slurping down japchae, or Korean glass noodle stir fry. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143541162-X36XN2GLJCEFL9HXP0E0/lowres_seoul45.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend As we enjoyed the cooler summer evening air in Seoul, we passed Hyehwamun Gate, one of eight old fortress wall gates to the city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143529782-DJIVQIBZK5NYDGEZWUWS/lowres_seoul44.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend The lovely night attracted other strollers and love birds along the pretty canal that winds through Dongdaemun district. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143522160-RMJ0KK0HX2ULSHOC7V1E/lowres_seoul40.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend The spaceship-like DDP, designed by famed architect Zaha Hadid. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143528066-1KKYKSNSPQRS7B9TTC7Y/lowres_seoul43.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend Another view of the stunning DDP, which serves as convention center, exhibition space, and public park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143705469-HHXLGUHRCM65V8LXO9EI/lowres_seoul46.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend The next morning, we started at the Gyeongbokgung Palace, built in the late 1300s when the Joseon Dynasty capital was moved to Seoul (June 30). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143711860-46MSCU3WJ2Q2WD1C7J9Y/lowres_seoul48.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend The colorful pillars of the palace halls appeared 3D thanks to sophisticated painting techniques. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143712301-KKJC7DISIQIFXY0YY4LK/lowres_seoul49.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend Gyeongbokgung Palace is made up of many free-standing buildings, including the throne hall, council hall and the king's residence. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143717988-HQLAHR96JY9KXATU53V5/lowres_seoul50.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend Grass is associated with the dead, and so the courtyards and pathways are sand, which absorbs water and reflects sunlight to warm the buildings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143720686-BZ5N0EGX5JPOJMDOV1Z4/lowres_seoul52.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend We adored the beautiful traditional costumes worn by women at the major tourist sites. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143720578-X8N23QX8TSGY6LWVYWU3/lowres_seoul53.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend At DDP, we caught the traveling Louis Vuitton "VOLEZ, VOGUEZ, VOYAGEZ" exhibition, which traces the Maison's roots and passion for travel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143726737-OY9LRUOP4VRRZPLRVPZU/lowres_seoul54.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend LV enthusiasts travel a little differently on their voyages around the world--no backpacks in this exhibit! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143733012-CFU0U0EZJ1LE6URVLYRZ/lowres_seoul55.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend On the quest for more local food, we visited Bukchon Son Mandu for a taste of their famous dumplings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143734772-HSQ5WAZ3L81CL77NJI2B/lowres_seoul56.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend Here, we tried both steamed and fried mandu, Korean for dumplings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143743237-MWQAFTF3RR1PN0IEYOWM/lowres_seoul57.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend And Trey stuck to the more gluten-free option of naengmyeon, or cold buckwheat noodles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143743346-X7LPSIT2HDG4GKSGEX6S/lowres_seoul58.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend We digested dinner by walking up the many levels of Ssamziegil craft mall, taking a peek at the varied wares and goods for sale. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143749106-P4ZEMATHME5Y8E3V5E6H/lowres_seoul60.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend We ended our evening back at Jogyesa temple for an outdoor classical concert of violin and piano. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143748676-Z1ANGYPUUP5RBGG6R94S/lowres_seoul61.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend But really, we snuck in a big bowl of traditional Korean mango shaved ice before hitting the sack! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143895271-SIQ08C0BOGZ7Z1UECLG0/lowres_seoul62.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend Our final morning in Seoul, we headed to the Korean temple food cooking class where we not only learned some techniques but also history of temple cuisine (July 1). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143895302-CWFP4HH7CXFOMJM2IV3H/lowres_seoul63.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend The class was taught by a beaming and spirited Buddhist monk from a nearby temple. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143900695-CA3FYZQ2U5GRD00E1EEH/lowres_seoul64.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend Martin received some specific instruction on how to prepare our zucchini and shitake mushroom dumplings thanks to the help of a translator. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505154561283-6YVQ8B0FPYILJT3Y9QEZ/Seoul_add1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend Stuffing our dumplings with a mixture of zuchinni and shitake mushroom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505154524186-NDIX7Y6DAA9IVHXA77Q5/Seoul_add2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend The finished product - steamed vegan dumplings! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505154522631-W6E4DHGGUGTIJT2SQQXI/Seoul_add3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend After cleaning up, we snuck a picture with this wonderful spirit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143900944-MVQB4UR42D4CT0B3WVW1/lowres_seoul65.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend We couldn't leave Seoul without a big bowl of hot stone bibimbop! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143962967-PHKOZOAM8Y0SB5DO5MPK/lowres_seoul66.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend As we walked about the city, we passed a large protest for the release of former South Korean President Park Geun-hye who's on trial for corruption. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143908898-0CBUQQMPE0WIS8PC1YO6/lowres_seoul67.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend We stumbled upon a lively food and crafts market along a small canal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1505143914321-BOOGR5QLGYTSZ5O51MF7/lowres_seoul68.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Seoulful Weekend And of course, couldn't resist a little steak frites meal by the water as we wrapped up our weekend in Seoul. http://www.jrny.life/countries/2017/9/9/a-japanese-journey monthly 0.5 2017-09-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504978769659-M3HSQ6ELWPCZRHWJLFGA/Japan_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Fueling up while taking in Tokyo's hectic Shibuya Crossing (June 13). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504978783239-8Z6MIHS2RNPQ5706HEWC/Japan_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey The imposing gate of Meiji-jingu Shrine, dedicated to Shinto religion. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504978793071-8YRNSS3HP0XR6UM02S0D/Japan_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Meiji-jingu Shrine compound https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504978802778-TFNGNL0C2X3D17RVYQHM/Japan_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Meiji-jingu Shrine temple. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504978825169-HLMRXWA67I59QFHC3P5L/Japan_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Coffee art comes to life at Reissue Cafe in Tokyo's famed Harajuku district. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504978867187-SLENLJQDM6IP9KYEFKA8/Japan_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey We couldn't resist! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504978881743-JYE9IZCFRWOOAAO5FB8A/Japan_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey As the rain began to come down, clear umbrellas appeared all across town, so we had to get a pair ourselves! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504978995423-RGLTR8SR9PTSBXQEPJIX/Japan_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Martin's snack of fried pork dumplings at Harajuku Gyoza-ro. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979009341-ULDZHNSI9296ZLY1R9T1/Japan_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Trey geeks out over all the matchbox cars at giant Kiddy Land toy store. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979035601-8MBTH2OQRJZCM4XR5PJM/Japan_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Conveyor belt sushi is all over Tokyo, so we sat down and grabbed what came around for lunch! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979047059-9SPY9Y1970Q2XJJJ3L18/Japan_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey After a confusing metro ride, we finally arrived at Daikanyama T-Site, the elegant complex of books. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979057230-NGZ1NERR6NFN2Z2EO3XL/Japan_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey The tranquil rows of books inside Daikanyama T-Site. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979074469-M3EOCBB54Z5D0E1ZB6T5/Japan_lowres14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Lunch #2 (more sushi!) at Tokyu Food Show's Heiroku Sushi. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979065146-CX8KT7O2VNJ0HCAQZLC4/Japan_lowres13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey With the language barrier, we opted for some of everything. :) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979103370-MC2RKDP8Y6D07ZFXENMP/Japan_lowres15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Pomp and presentation of the magnificent underground food halls, this one at Shibuya Station. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979118424-MFLKDRQNX428J6VDYJLQ/Japan_lowres16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey The Japanese staff are always service with a smile. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979130028-ZI1Q6PLO9Q9L8AIHP901/Japan_lowres17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Making our way back through busy Shibuya Crossing in time for evening rush hour. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979142921-20RWQY7XOEKUU00JERND/Japan_lowres21.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Finally, dinner! We stopped into Edoji Yakitori for skewered chicken grilled over bincho-tan charcoal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979153661-64AR06QMYO3B6NYM0NF6/Japan_lowres18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey We warmed up over a hot soup as the chef grilled behind the counter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979165453-S0ZO9SS9WA0WZT1NF8IK/Japan_lowres19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Charcoal blistered edamame to start. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979178911-ESV57I6JPKK7PLNC42PG/Japan_lowres20.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Grilled chicken with spring onion. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979246294-H0I7O6VRSN1E13XOE7JU/Japan_lowres22.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Tokyo's Imperial Palace Gardens is a respite within the chaos of the city (June 14). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979256964-TLRAZIUXS8URG9Q55RBL/Japan_lowres23.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Guardhouse where guards slept at the gates of the Imperial Palace. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979271714-1NDY07S0TM14S64NAC8X/Japan_lowres24.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Historic guardhouse and stone wall surrounding the palace perimeter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979285432-IFBDJP7SBWG6PLZ77M2P/Japan_lowres25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey After our garden walk, we grabbed lunch like many of the office workers in Takebashi Station. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979367646-11XUKHON5M1MD8KOY57R/Japan_lowres27.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Gardeners tending to Hama-rikyu's famous landscapes along Tokyo Bay. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979328213-XHHNLX7171UMFYYJKKZK/Japan_lowres26.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Just married! A couple in traditional national costume jump for joy in Hama-rikyu garden. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979384700-0B27UWEL50LTRPPWDB63/Japan_lowres28.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey The hot new shopping in Tokyo is at Ginza Six, which featured Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama's surreal giant pumpkins. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979404594-QS1RQEIDZZZ2JAK6MR9D/Japan_lowres29.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey The sister to yesterday's bookstore, Ginza Six is crowned with an outpost of Tsutaya bookshop. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979541221-4Y6SW2UQ3YQ5IG590DMK/Japan_lowres32.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey All aboard! Martin is ready for his first bullet train ride from Tokyo to Kyoto (June 15). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979532178-MM84K8DSIZJLCT02G1FT/Japan_lowres30.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Window seat ready for a view of Mt. Fuji. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979558150-E4EWLXFZ02EAN3VW4R2Y/Japan_lowres34.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Bento to-go, our breakfast of champions on the train journey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979549708-8GAPH7C0DRTIPJIJYPYI/Japan_lowres33.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Rising above the clouds, we were in awe of the magnitude of Mt. Fuji speeding by at 250 KMpH. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979576206-ODZDGA4QKRD63BGM2S5R/Japan_lowres35.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey After checking in, we checked out Anteroom's bicycles, our preferred mode of transportation for the weekend. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979593080-MO5KZJVLX84FL7P0GI0D/Japan_lowres49.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Part art gallery, Anteroom was hosting a new exhibition by rock-n-roll shutterbug Mick Rock. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979602115-ICTU14X36OR0FGOCYNB3/Japan_lowres50.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey The installation included intimate and backstage photographers of musician David Bowie. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979649468-G1HUVEMMNPJ245W7RCL2/Japan_lowres36.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Arriving in Kyoto, we made our way to Fushimi Inari-taisha, a shrine dedicated to the fox. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979673791-TME69FTVUUM8Y37CM2WB/Japan_lowres38.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Many visitors were dressed in national costume as they took photos and made offerings around the complex. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979695583-3JV11991ZF4IMJXBDC6M/Japan_lowres39.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Trey makes a birthday wish to be hung with many others at the shrine's entrance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979844402-MOB1WUKID56KCB2DK09R/Japan_lowres44.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey The sly fox, also god of rice, who is thought to bring prosperity and worldly success. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979791645-MEG7ETZ49JA58TH0EWI5/Japan_lowres40.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Japanese school children stopped us to practice their English and we couldn't resist a photo! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979812008-I51LVJFXTG918ODKOL59/Japan_lowres41.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey A Japanese woman makes an offering and prayer at one of the many shrines within the complex. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979827589-YPLYLY02I4BHM3YBFO5J/Japan_lowres42.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey School kids running through the famed Inari gates and snapping pics as they go. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504979834615-VARLM1LPVYUVY6TO4VM3/Japan_lowres43.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Trey tries to understand all the wishes of good fortune by the many businesses and merchants who've contributed to the Inari gates. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982483351-9RTBG18A8ZGBJYQJKLNC/Japan_lowres45.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Hopping back on our bikes, we rode along the beautiful Kamo River en route to the Daitoku-Ji temple complex https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982498712-ECLQ7RJ9YWWA9B1BYMQG/Japan_lowres46.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Along the river we passed several music students practicing their instruments and charming passing pedestrians with their melodies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982511016-I0AUJQOGZ630HGJW5IKC/Japan_lowres47.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey The birthday boy poses for the camera. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982525302-TVBLNH1ROH2LTTI0X1V0/Japan_lowres48.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey The Daitoku-ji is a walled temple complex in northern Kyoto famed for both its historical associations and its many beautiful Zen gardens. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982535389-TT2Z6JCQGHW7RJK4FS49/Japan_lowres51.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey At a raucous Izakaya restaurant near the hotel we enjoyed a local speciality, marinated tofu. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982544785-A90I58GBU6G6FFZF9FO1/Japan_lowres52.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey We had to try their yakatori, too! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982552662-CHFULI3SCB5A0PIAU10M/Japan_lowres53.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey And some fresh, delicious sashimi. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982559885-9O1VTI54590XMGYH2LGM/Japan_lowres54.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey We warmed up with some chicken soup. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982568045-5V9VRP2PQUJARNL64OKF/Japan_lowres55.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Cheesy potatoes? Why not! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982621811-IVD6OQHIAWQSNYRXAE1X/Japan_lowres56.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey More selfies as we begin Day 2 in Kyoto--Trey's birthday!--at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of the most popular in Japan. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982635763-7UYLJHC0B0DG76T1CYZ8/Japan_lowres57.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey The vermillion tower within Kiyomizu-dera complex. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982646666-OI20LZKFXMQTCIDPCS2O/Japan_lowres58.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Gate to Kiyomizu-dera Temple complex. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982654483-40CD3T6WQ7IIFBDBRTDS/Japan_lowres59.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Green tea and mango ice cream is anyone's birthday wish! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982667172-XEXTJJZMS8X3INTUV0YE/Japan_lowres60.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey We refueled at sleek Arabica coffeeshop just outside the Temple. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982675883-QH6AMJ68RVT1QN3QF66Z/Japan_lowres61.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Arabica Coffee where our bicycles were parked out front. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982696674-GUTS672W1OZK3U62A2OL/Japan_lowres62.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey We spent midmorning at lovely Shoren-in Monzeki temple, built in the 13th century. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982706370-OMVJPJ6MIAXXPZ6FD4VZ/Japan_lowres63.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Inside the complex of Shoren-in Monzeki where you could feel the sacredness of the past. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982714213-QGOIV6UVCDBRMQ6SWZDZ/Japan_lowres64.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Trey pauses to reflect on the beautiful gardens of Shoren-in Monzeki. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982726126-OUDNCXT1C8ECUNS0E8F1/Japan_lowres65.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey After checking out the interiors, we strolled the gardens which include centuries old plantings and trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982827415-5LRRBVKM00UGVMJPP0TM/Japan_lowres66.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey One of the oldest are the 800 year old camphor trees that line the complex walls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982836163-DT5FKVXT5QF8KWAANC9L/Japan_lowres67.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey After all the cycling, we made our way to Choice for a gluten-free birthday lunch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982867130-VU3IR4VU130L9ZGSQQK3/Japan_lowres68.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Zenned out in Nanzen-ji. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982881668-HNYAD19479HQQUZH4VXG/Japan_lowres69.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey The sumptuous, mossy grounds of Nanzen-ji https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982897918-TKLRTEMLX9OWFBOQGCMB/Japan_lowres70.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Gorgeous gates greet you at the entrance of Nanzen-ji temple complex. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982910477-P2K6CL1XQ29XAO8LQZO2/Japan_lowres71.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey In awe of the impressive, raked gardens of the lovely, secluded Honen-in temple. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982927730-LNM4DWDWK79CQ6RXOIA9/Japan_lowres72.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Honen-in temple complex is set back within the woods and begs contemplation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982943257-U3BT9FEPCH8CVLQCHEK4/Japan_lowres73.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Sculpture in the Honen-in garden which asks of it's observer to Listen, Think, Accept, Practice and Believe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982964038-A3CTUCL8GQH7J00TAQGG/Japan_lowres74.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey We capped off a day of temples with the beautiful Ginkaku-ju temple complex. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982983499-AQ3EM75L6SVZ8YKI7ZFP/Japan_lowres75.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey You will never see another Zen raked sand garden like those of Ginkaku-ju https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504982999766-5GOWHWQSJGJ5RRF0V89S/Japan_lowres76.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey These raked sand gardens defy gravity. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983010722-WWN90X7J3QESSGJOLTCW/Japan_lowres77.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey The Japanese rock garden, or dry landscape garden, often called a zen garden, creates a miniature stylized landscape through carefully composed arrangements of rocks, water features, moss, pruned trees and bushes, and uses gravel or sand that is raked to represent ripples in water. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983026361-X3NK1EK9XXI6Y856YAZ1/Japan_lowres78.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey The meticulously manicured gardens Ginkaku-ju. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983040235-IGFSS783DGIBSGGS9OMO/Japan_lowres79.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Trey making a wish with the toss of a coin into a pond in Ginkaku-ju temple complex. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983059418-Q672DWTCZ3Q97YXL2BDW/Japan_lowres80.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Beautiful view over the Kyoto valley from atop the Ginkaku-ju temple complex's upper fields. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504984665768-CV2QUBM2ZF27V9BL9NBM/Japan_lowresadd.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Enjoying a post birthday dinner stroll, we took in Shinbashi Dori, often considered one of the most beautiful streets in Asia. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983337364-ZR614OMF9IPSPUJRWF0F/Japan_lowres85.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Trey taking in the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (June 17). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983348340-8DN73D1KM96DPI4WTQBN/Japan_lowres87.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey A beautiful day to explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983179042-IP2UYCODSG9AUCAYPR94/Japan_lowres81.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey We saved the best for last - Goo-ji temple. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983294436-ZV66QJ69LDBU390Z6ITN/Japan_lowres82.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey The Goo-ji temple moss garden up close. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983313378-3796J2RA1L3TBI0IX3SG/Japan_lowres83.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Much time was spent marveling at the verdant moss garden of Goo-ji. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983325511-9HJ817ENR02S5HPPNB6Q/Japan_lowres84.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Goo-ji moss temple graveyard. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983573872-1VKY76BB5N3FMMFJ2PG5/Japan_lowres88.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Looking up at the modern Kanazawa train station. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983557079-Y1I6LG5379MPWSWY4NHS/Japan_lowres89.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Kanazawa Castle Gardens' verdant fields. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983585328-MOVK62KW41R40JYB5W17/Japan_lowres90.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Imposing wooden gate of Kanazawa Castle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983595736-K71YADTUKZOO2CKV3B53/Japan_lowres91.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Lush lawn within Kanazawa Castle complex. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983607939-I2R4PEHIMBPJO0JYF1KC/Japan_lowres92.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Impressive periphery wall of the Kanazawa Castle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983622068-JXLIBNHUAETHC2K9NFKC/Japan_lowres93.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Taking in Kanazawa Castle and the waning sunshine. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983660418-H28V28VDWV134AKFSNE4/Japan_lowres97.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey The Kanazawa Modern Art Museum. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983629655-HSVOQXH57B86E4W6G804/Japan_lowres94.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey A colorful exhibit at the Kanazawa Modern Art Museum. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983636370-I2O1IWYXLHH5GXMS0VEK/Japan_lowres95.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey A colorful exhibit at the Kanazawa Modern Art Museum. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983652648-R4OTEHDVIULKB58QPFDA/Japan_lowres96.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Trey's trapped in an exhibit at the Kanazawa Modern Art Museum. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983668269-JG8FHY9QAS6DM0T02DK3/Japan_lowres98.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey A delicious dinner at Elbow Room; chicken yakitori, pork belly skewers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983675262-5Z1EIGV3H15OGFRGA8FO/Japan_lowres99.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Spicy tuna crispy rice and yellow tail carpaccio. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983734469-GMLE331OUTYGMUX20YLR/Japan_lowres102.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Arriving in Takayama, we made a b-line for Ebisu-Honten restaurant for their famed handmade teuchi soba (June 18). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983724190-QPD4DY386MVP3MGH6T60/Japan_lowres101.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Sitting cross-legged on pillows and slurping a delicious soba! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983782942-33Z2PSXHO43DQJ1RMJT1/Japan_lowres119.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey The old town of Takayama dates from the Edo period in the 1600s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983743497-TRK858TI0IUBVZNVRUUW/Japan_lowres103.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Trey attempts a skewered rice ball with soy sauce, one of the street food eats of Takayama. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983758795-Z329V64GHPA6ISDH8FRK/Japan_lowres104.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey We ended our day with a hike in Shiroyama park, which boasted panoramic views of the city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983835520-ETK1N9Y6NJRTD06YGSRS/Japan_lowres106.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey We left Takayama early the next morning for Kamikochi, which is enveloped by the majestic Hida mountain range of the Japanese Alps. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983858882-OQKT08DAQH1H6WHII3MI/Japan_lowres107.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Forest bathing on our morning hike along the Azusa River basin. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983873414-F3496K4BZQFSZ001SO9Y/Japan_lowres108.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey We can't get enough of these Japanese Alps! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983885823-MN7IMTJVJF2TXD4JN4QR/Japan_lowres109.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Crossing over the Azusa river. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983896614-75G7J225C3REYY214CXP/Japan_lowres110.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Crossing over the Azusa river. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983908853-V4945CPJET7M1N39NCA3/Japan_lowres111.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Beautiful wetlands we came across along the trail. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983922354-ZA3U86ANSQR5GXIUY525/Japan_lowres112.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Martin taking a moment to reflect on the beauty of this place. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983934993-EI0P4Y78GFGMVAHCYAGN/Japan_lowres113.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Enjoying the stunning vistas of the remote mountainous highland valley within the Hida Mountains range. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983949754-EKIBYEAAYSME9467ZONN/Japan_lowres114.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Mineral infused marshlands within the park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504983998405-7F6G1VSAVK632D3QOATL/Japan_lowres115.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Hirayu-Onsen Folk museum grounds feature a replica of a traditional wooden house with thatched roof of the mid-Edo era and the Hirayu no yu onsen which we enjoyed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504984014727-0VV2NPLO22CQDLHGWDSY/Japan_lowres117.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Round two of the piping hot, irresistible soba of Ebisu-Honten. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1504984023977-NUI1OW1WL8E80YG2VI4A/Japan_lowres118.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Japanese Journey Our new friends at the Ebisu-Honten restaurant wishing us farewell and good luck on the farm up north! http://www.jrny.life/countries/2017/8/1/breathing-in-breathing-out-a-tale-of-bali-in-two-parts monthly 0.5 2017-09-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501603819537-1F3439R3GR1920RQL1FD/Bali2_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts David and I waited for skies to clear over Ubud before taking our obligatory "welcome to Bali" shots (May 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604103594-GCU6MGH5WQY745CORE6F/Bali2_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts In the heart of the island, green was everywhere, even covering the stairs we took to reach morning yoga. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604111890-NX35ORKZ9H1QX24873BD/Bali2_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts We found peace and relaxation (as well as plenty of sweat) at Intuitive Flow, which offers a stunning view of the valley. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604122424-2QIOQQZC9QON3JC2N1MH/Bali2_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts A moss covered statue sat peacefully at the entry to Intutitive Flow. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604131964-CSHWGGWLHRVSJ8EKVP9A/Bali2_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts Full of yoga studios and health cafes, Ubud is also known for its many sacred temples that dot the area. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604140171-PRHSV6Z5P2IAAJTH7YXO/Bali2_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts But also plenty of healthy food, like this vibrant dragonfruit smoothie bowl, which quickly became David's favorite snack. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604154535-DLQJVT77EJLIOQJJSO18/Bali2_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts Throughout Bali, and especially in Ubud, there are many shrines and statues, this one of Ganesh, the elephant-headed Hindu god of wisdom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604174750-N18I9R14DIYT3WNOE123/Bali2_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts We were fortunate to be close to an excellent yoga studio and wonderful cafes, so we spent most of our time in Ubud walking the small pathways to get whereever we were going. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604392235-D4MWS6ZAEQ91Q79J7E6H/Bali2_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts We spent one of our days in Ubud as tourists with our first stop to visit the surging Tegenungan Waterfall (May 30). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604381425-0X5LUGJ7TQ4D3N8D3JTO/Bali2_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts David, always the water sign, wasted no time as he dove into the powerful falls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604415252-61YCNFITTX91SZKIZJEW/Bali2_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts Our next stop was the holy Tirta Empul water temple, built over a natural spring in the 10th century A.D. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604430789-1CFLA65LEED5UUQ5CQGM/Bali2_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts The temple is famous for its sacred bathing pool, where Balinese Hindus come for ritual purifcation in the spring water. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604445577-GNO9T0AL47NW5SE1AX1J/Bali2_lowres13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts The spring is surrounded by high brick walls to protect it before flowing into the temple baths. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604460093-N393YD5Y410TDF1C03BQ/Bali2_lowres14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts Many offerings, or canang saris, had been left at the feet of various shrines throughout the temple. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604472824-L0XNS570PP3730VW5Y54/Bali2_lowres15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts Our next stop was by a traditional Balinese coffee plantation, where we were shown how coffee goes from plant to cup. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604484062-3P5LZRC4ZXESKXDKUX21/Bali2_lowres16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts Finally, we (Martin, Trey, Nik and David) arrived to the famous Tegallalang rice terraces that beautifully slope down the verdant valley. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604500395-LBEGX7XG0543EGTZCALH/Bali2_lowres17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts The terraces are a great examples of subak, the traditional Balinese irrigation system which is believed to have been passed down since the eighth century. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604518289-ITDXKZOK6PQTT6NGH9T5/Bali2_lowres18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts The symmetry and vibrancy of the paddies creates a remarkable backdrop to many photos and even films, such as Eat, Pray, Love. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604571279-XXA3EPAO4IKTJTCKS4JC/Bali2_lowres20.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts As we made our way to Munduk, the climb eventually gave way to this panoramic view of Tamblingan Lake, which is patrolled by embolden macaques (June 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604582446-55I6SPEO0B74H1AN123T/Bali2_lowres21.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts We spent our first afternoon hiking the many falls of Munduk. Our first stop was roaring Red Coral Falls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604627023-0PX1FNG458L048H39P9L/Bali2_lowres22.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts At the eponymously named Munduk Falls, we climbed down the many hundreds of steps to take in the jaw-dropping falls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604779535-3AO30D9N9G5NGW3G6CYG/Bali2_lowres23.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts As we made our way back to Tamblingan Lake, we came upon a local celebration, and couldn't help but smile at this lone goldfish that would perhaps become someone's new pet. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604814920-AGM6CAAUSNZN2L09R5HQ/Bali2_lowres24.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts The ancient Gubug Temple on Tamblingan seems to float in the lake's tranquil water. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604831638-I8ZUBPTPQC3NX2LDNTSI/Bali2_lowres25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts Many temples dot the lake with inscriptions to various gods and date back to the early 10th century's Tamblingan civilization. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604843316-2LMVRQ1EK4Y6NOXZV9T1/Bali2_lowres26.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts The terraces from our guesthouse in Munduk offered majestic views all the way to the coastline of northern Bali. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501605055691-EN5VMHFRZ51Z8WTKU2YN/Bali2_lowres34.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts Besides waterfalls and forest, Munduk also has beautifully sculpted rice terraces, which we hiked early one morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501605016110-NP9763SA1OL021WH7CYD/Bali2_lowres33.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts The rice fields were lush, green and bursting with grains. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604901957-FOYVKIMBUU4VVXTDMNRN/Bali2_lowres27.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts Trey and David caught up on the rooftop of our hotel as the sun began to slide below the horizon in Canggu (June 4). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604915538-6S2LI9V473RGI0NZF5ZX/Bali2_lowres28.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts The laid back style and towering waves of Canggu attract surfers from all over the world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604965808-9HTS9ASK68YCSL8EV5AM/Bali2_lowres35.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts So typical in Bali, we loved seeing the small shrines along the beach in Canggu. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501604975285-S9B2WYS5BEJXQMV2BQNH/Bali2_lowres36.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts The wind-swept, wide sandy beaches of Canggu are perfect for resting up after a long day of catching waves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501605114302-L4KQ4HNG1ALRRTDWQ43J/Bali2_lowres29.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts Uluwatu is also very well known for its powerful waves, but here surfing is mostly left to the professionals (June 6). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501605130525-6UTJK75KN0M0S8YTFF35/Bali2_lowres30.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts Our last evening on Bali, and in Southeast Asia, took us to nearby Uluwatu temple at sunset (June 8). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501605150932-R14ACP9DWUFPYUZ219PK/Bali2_lowres31.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts The beautiful setting of the temple, literally at land's end, proved to be the perfect spot for reflection and gratitude. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501605175796-W4PNT9G98DTK7UW375KM/Bali2_lowres32.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts And with the setting of the sun, so too had our time on Bali come to a tranquil end. http://www.jrny.life/countries/2017/7/19/balancing-balia-two-part-account monthly 0.5 2017-08-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501148601799-OBUO0Y0OK3QV6JOMH9CC/Bali_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts Young Balinese children playing and hunting for fish as we docked at sunset near Nusa Lembongan, Bali (May 14). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501148609531-LM048XY09F7U6AU3NMFN/Bali_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts Close up: a canang sari offering, made of palm leaf and filled with betel leaf, lime, gambier, tobacco, betel nuts and flowers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501148672932-XMQ6SRGD49IOIQ4TKUIL/Bali_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts A Balinese woman participating in the the canang sari offering ritual. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501148622106-UHTWZFOSZYCSM3ME72I9/Bali_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts We planted ourselves under this straw umbrella on Lembongan’s Pemedal Beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501148615835-S3YDKIU3LFI1G86PQMT6/Bali_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts A signature veggie rice bowl and fresh tropical fruit at Bali Eco Deli (May 15). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501148629123-7F496VC6ZALPES96LJER/Bali_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts The view of Lembongan’s port town with Bali’s Mount Agung rising above the clouds in the background (May 16). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501148636535-WKR1P0WI0T7C84392NYL/Bali_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts A traditional Balinese burial ground with small umbrellas providing shade for the deceased. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501148643968-OTB709CRP49BTLVMF0SR/Bali_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts The crashing waves and tidal pools along the cliffs of Devil’s Tear at the far end of the island. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501148649403-29Z3QEUPKN7OIFEWU5N5/Bali_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts The dramatic surge against the cliffs was awe-inspiring (for scale, note the people and cars across the way). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501148654851-1CSH5P17JUPWW3PQJSRV/Bali_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts Long and narrow Pemedal Beach also offers a magnificent view of Mount Agung. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501148660445-94EJQOJ5QG7WF6NMLJU7/Bali_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts This old passenger boat was on shore at Pemedal Beach during low tide. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501148665624-QQ28H9MHK7RFTSIX6NIC/Bali_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts A pregnant Balinese mother plays with her daughter in the low tide of Pemedal Beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149015813-76F7F311C86DC5SV8Z7Y/Bali_lowres13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts Arriving on Gili Air, where horse and buggy are the only option for those with heavy loads (May 18). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149021879-EE5AKMMHTJHLIMHSQDBL/Bali_lowres14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts Bicycles are another option for getting around the island, which has a sandy path around the coastline. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149028524-F02NK3EZB7N7IPLOS5S9/Bali_lowres15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts We felt right at home at Pacha Mama with its understated design and menu of organic delights. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149040710-K4NRMK9OVNAQFWPOXN8V/Bali_lowres17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts The beach-chic style of Pacha Mama, which became our kitchen during our stay on Gili Air. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149034996-T0C73VMH3NF9MC0I23M7/Bali_lowres16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts Sunset from the Gili Air coast, where a fisherman was taking advantage of the low tide to seemingly walk on water. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149047338-12LKGNOUQA7G5A9UJKYY/Bali_lowres18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts We told you the horse and buggy was the only options for big loads! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149053997-YHPI228ZSYEKU98RZKGI/Bali_lowres19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts We loved the unique shapes and bold colors of these traditional Indonesian fishing boats. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149181226-74KUTSY42ARAXB5ZY7LZ/Bali_lowres20.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts On our first evening in Amed, we watched local fishermen return with their catches of the day in a vibrant fleet of colorful crab-claw sails (May 22). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149197506-HCOV5Q71C7DLJNFYY2QT/Bali_lowres22.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts As the lateens approach shore, the crew and local villagers help push the boat onto rocky shore. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149203947-D1RXELO3YCENNRW3F4PQ/Bali_lowres23.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts Once ashore, the fishermen unspool their nets and place the fish into buckets or bags. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149188877-PKGHGHZDX2HXSBHPGIJX/Bali_lowres21.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts The fishing canoes lined up on shore as local women take in bags of freshly caught fish. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149215000-6HNZ45TZNWB5HSVETHWX/Bali_lowres24.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts The verdant lawn and crimson gate of Meditasi leads to the black sand beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149221330-B0LIAQSLOJDT3SBRM1GG/Bali_lowres25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts Fresh tropical flowers from the Meditasi property were placed throughout the hotel and its private shrine. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149337928-EEVL0HE0QWXT2YUKIUEX/Bali_lowres26.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts A beautiful day as we arrived to Sidemen, with the fields of rice beyond (May 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149344369-2DJL05G26SRBSOUUFAH1/Bali_lowres27.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts After the rain showers passed, we spent time exploring the plantings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149352028-T60R5YH795SHDBYGEOA7/Bali_lowres28.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts A stroll through the village leads to the Unda River where locals were partaking in their nightly baths. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149358190-VEQHEI3OFLHGF3J3O12F/Bali_lowres29.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts Not only were we surprised by the bathing but also the poultry this local man held up for us to behold! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149365164-GNTIXV3D424WF7QSXWIT/Bali_lowres30.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts A moody landscape of the Sidemen valley with rice terraces. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149372257-IRA2R2J6QZDEXGDOB3I7/Bali_lowres31.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts One evening, we stumbled upon local men preparing their roosters for fighting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149379749-TO33YAGQ7F96OV98SXTE/Bali_lowres32.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts As workers returned from the fields, we spotted both men and women carrying back their harvest of the day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149385819-05JL1S4EQS03NUFTKQXA/Bali_lowres33.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts The bright green fields and surrounding hills of Sidemen were a beautiful sight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1501149392619-H9FPI83EU5DRACC7KS5C/Bali_lowres34.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Breathing In, Breathing Out: A Tale of Bali in Two Parts During one of our walks, we happened upon a shala where we spent some time in reflection and contemplation. http://www.jrny.life/countries/2017/6/21/malaysia-truly-asia monthly 0.5 2017-07-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498122125161-L2FNZ45L7BB1DXDK9J9U/lowres_malaysia_lang7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Beached out, we chased a few of Langkawi's roaring waterfalls, including Seven Wells pictured here (April 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498122076427-2HBZIE0LUXDOJ2PZNZVM/lowres_malaysia_lang.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia On our hike up the falls, we took in a view of Langkawi's Manchincang mountain, which has cable cars that tourists can take to the top. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498122116718-73ZH9HUXA79IAWF5F1V2/lowres_malaysia_lang6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia There were many steps on our journey to the fall's crest, and with Langkawi's heat and humidity, we were ready for a plunge. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498122103580-DQQQSCS3DX0BHW15E8PN/lowres_malaysia_lang5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia View from the top: Seven Wells is named after the small pools that gather in the limestone formations just before the drop. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498122085231-CIYP8E6ZBZ2EB7MR7FPV/lowres_malaysia_lang2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Martin enjoying a cool dip--the water was freezing! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498122133947-URT5LNF6AFKGFXHHZK4Z/lowres_malaysia_lang8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Another one of Langkawi's falls, towering Air Terjun Temurun was still impressive even during the island's dry season. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043021907-YT5MABYV9Q2KDJW2G744/malaysia_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia The Hin Bus Depot Art Center in Penang's George Town is an inspiring spot surrounded by galleries, cafes, and even yoga (April 25). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043033643-4YTTXLB3XMDCW4FL6ZBG/malaysia_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia The vibrant outdoor artwork is on all sides and surfaces of the ruins of this former bus terminal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043063855-IRULS3IDFCAXH3FQE1GO/malaysia_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Shia's Cafe at Hin Bus Depot features colorful and delicious smoothie bowls topped with fresh fruit and granola. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498042968133-BMI639ON0SE65XG0X2JV/malaysia_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia One of our favorite spots for lunch was famous Joo Hoi Cafe, where we discovered kway teow, fried rice noodle cooked on a charred wok. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043113968-5DXML47D2JS2HYS0T619/malaysia_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia In the evening, we visited the New Lane Hawker Stalls where yes, we had kway teow but also tried hokkien mee, prawn egg noodles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043127130-VJGC73YU8PYTWGP1DJDE/malaysia_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia The upstairs gallery at George Town's famous China House, a complex of several restaurants, bars and boutiques (April 26). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043137166-ZSV36TX3K3T1KGQ6HAS6/malaysia_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia One of the more famous works by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic, Children on Bicycle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043143493-89S44E6NAH8FHQRUJLB3/malaysia_lowres13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia The metal wire artwork, also found on the streets of George Town, is cartoon-like with humorous observations about Penang culture. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043150684-JGDT2WO0QY9XFNC26QD1/malaysia_lowres14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Fun and creative art pieces dot the alleyways and side streets all around George Town, where you'll never know what you'll see next. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043158934-EJBJIWKBBC2XF4K3X52X/malaysia_lowres15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Located on Penang's "Street of Harmony," Kapitan Keling Mosque was built in the early 1800s by Indian Muslim traders (April 26). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043166956-ERV8EMJCRCKAWJSX1FMR/malaysia_lowres16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Sri Mahamariamman Temple, known locally as Queen Street Indian Temple, was also built in the 1800s and anchors the area's Little India. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043174104-X7GA3GTTYLSGF5PRVLLY/malaysia_lowres17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Also located on the "Street of Harmony," giant sticks of incense burned outside Goddess of Mercy Temple, a Taoist temple built in the early 1700s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043194143-2UYWGOMLG0KGCAC04CV6/malaysia_lowres19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Another famous (and busy) local street food area is Gurney Drive Hawker Stalls, where we waited in a line for about 20 minutes for their kway teow. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043199946-QXA2E4B8993JBMCPYZ85/malaysia_lowres20.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia In wouldn't be a trip to Malaysia without trying the controversial and infamous durian fruit... if you know, you know. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043281063-4YDKL6RQ72A6HVLVHFFS/malaysia_lowres22.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia We arrived to the East Malaysian city of Kuching, which legend has it was named for all the cats around when the Brit and first white Rajah, James Brook, landed on Borneo in the early 1800s (May 1). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043288600-7SP3FJZCU5L6KRPVN8EU/malaysia_lowres23.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia We found more great Malaysian street food in Kuching, including the Yan Chun Tai food court (May 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043299583-TS7QKT358Q8J8S2O3KIG/malaysia_lowres24.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Like many street cafes or hawker stalls, you order individual dishes at a booth and pay when the food arrives to your table. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043304471-18F15H7IWV63MVQYHHVC/malaysia_lowres25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia The area is known for satay, and at Yan Chun Tai, we opted for pork. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043309921-1U2LL8O4EZ76PQX4YVW9/malaysia_lowres26.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Another specialty here is Tang Hoon, or fish ball soup. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043317089-369DE5W1YO30MDNHU6GZ/malaysia_lowres27.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia We loved the open-air vibe of Yan Chun Tai, where locals hung out during lunchtime. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043323918-5HLQIT9B4BRVOCGRE1Z2/malaysia_lowres28.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia A favorite here is the local Sarawak roast coffee, and we headed to Black Bean for a cup of delicious brew. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043358381-OQMSHN62I9U564UHTTJZ/malaysia_lowres29.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia That evening we dined at The Dyak, which is a high-end take on Malaysian classics, and the owner is the descendent of the last princess of Sarawak (pictured here). As customary, her feet didn't touch the ground until she reached menstruation, around the age of 12. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043363910-KH21CF8Z3D7YJAT9ZDHP/malaysia_lowres30.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Spicy and bitter, the stir fried fiddlehead ferns at The Dyak were a Malay take on the now trendy dish. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043421882-XAUOEO935KE63RBANWBZ/malaysia_lowres43.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia A local favorite, we headed to Chong Choon Cafe several mornings for our bowl of steaming prawn laksa and iced coffees (May 4). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043428300-QC8CAUQ6I10ZSZHYQ5EH/malaysia_lowres44.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia The prawn laksa here is spicy and rich, really getting you ready for the heat of the day ahead on Borneo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043516108-G0E5BEFY95LZ48W2SIHL/malaysia_lowres32.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Everyone say "ahhh!" We visited Semenggoh Nature Reserve, where semi-wild orangutans are looked after, right at feeding time (May 3). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043528633-LS2WHLJSYC437G4PUMG9/malaysia_lowres33.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia A momma and her baby eventually came for breakfast, which supplements the diet of these semi-wild animals if foraging isn't going their way. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043535869-7FUTBZTCUOQIP52FGS9R/malaysia_lowres34.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Sort of randomly, Semenggoh also rehabilitates crocs--we never quite figured out the connection! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043542347-BKCMA2OKHNIIVDQC6PLD/malaysia_lowres35.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia We later when to check out Matang Wildlife Center, which rehabilitates many different types of birds and animals, but were stalked by this young semi-wild orangutan who was up in the canopy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043548235-3MLOL9AM493KLMT8QO4U/malaysia_lowres36.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia She decided to come down from the tree tops for a closer look, and we were definitely more nervous by her sudden appearance than she was ours! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043557924-KQ7W2DEDQY3JA4IGU1FA/malaysia_lowres37.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Close by Matang, we hiked through Kubah National Park in search of yet another Malaysian waterfall, while checking out the vibrant flora and fauna along the trail. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043566928-34ODDLVMS2WHQRLCQHAQ/malaysia_lowres38.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia This Park has several well maintained trails that are clearly marked; we chose a 3-hour return. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043582028-AQ3SBNRWOZE8AYJ1Q86C/malaysia_lowres40.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia After 1.5 hours, we finally arrived to the beautiful tiered waterfall deep within Kubah National Park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043593919-G5GXWAF5H1WA7FQE11HN/malaysia_lowres41.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Kubah is teeming with wildlife but really visitors come for the beautiful streams and waterfalls, and to see the 93 different specifics of palms throughout the mixed dipterocarp forest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043603177-KVE61MZ7GS6J2UU8PI3H/malaysia_lowres42.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia As temperatures and humidity soared, all the sweat was worth reaching this spectacular panoramic view of Matang and Mt Santubong. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043609466-CLC0EQGM7P45WU4KPMGD/malaysia_lowres45.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia The next day, we headed by small boat to the tip of the island and Bako National Park, which has a multitude of trails and fascinating wildlife (May 4). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043616713-AN8NDDLRZ7TWS91OHGXL/malaysia_lowres46.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia With the coastal cliffs surround Bako, its easy to see why the boat trip is warranted! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043624375-LXZ1QIEI9WLXP2HOENGJ/malaysia_lowres47.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Right away, we were greeted by a Bornean bearded pig, which is so thin, compared to our pigs, that it almost seemed to be in 2-D. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043633879-MZ92U6ETNNC1PAY3025Q/malaysia_lowres48.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia The trail we chose took us along the coast and was more wild than those of Kubah the previous day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043641467-6OVR9LWDB2QAT8MZP461/malaysia_lowres50.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia The trail ends at beautiful white sand beach with big rock formations carved by the sea. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043651284-MEIVZVNNLPMGRLZMUDGL/malaysia_lowres51.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia The jungle meets the sea--a true respite from the heat of the hike (although they warned us to look out for crocodile!). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043658071-IIA4TO3XOIMVF756RMMA/malaysia_lowres52.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia The rocks at Bako were full of mudskippers, amphibious fish that use their fins to "walk" on ground. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043671399-O8Y8WBU136K6RSOXULU8/malaysia_lowres54.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia FINALLY! We spotted the rare proboscis monkeys, exclusive to Borneo and odd-looking with their pendulous noses. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043679964-4LI5TNEEIS5BOXL58I6T/malaysia_lowres55.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia We interrupted a small family eating and resting in the trees, including a pregnant female. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043686397-2MLWR0GRNHJ09YQVZUJC/malaysia_lowres56.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia And not to be left out, a green pit viper was hanging out in the tree just by the park headquarters. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043754599-F59ACYBZOJE34QITVAG6/malaysia_lowres58.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia After the jungles of Borneo, we headed just off the east coast of the Malaysian Peninsular to the magical Perhentian Islands (May 7). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043763826-KJDJBP5EOVHHH22J4VQG/malaysia_lowres59.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia The waters are an electric blue and so very clear, perfect for checking out the countless tropical fish and vibrant coral reef. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043770351-D904M92UW164QFA1PZ4Z/malaysia_lowres60.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Sorry mom! Too nervous to take our cameras underwater, this is the most of our trip to the islands where we spent most of our time submerged. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043777016-PZBM8TEUFAVSL0JP0YP5/malaysia_lowres61.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia We agree! Drop us here again--the Perhentian Islands should be on everyone's must see list. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043966307-88OXQYU5V2XQ6MHSAQE5/malaysia_lowres77.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Already so impressed with Malaysia, we were awe-struck by the soaring Petronas Twin Towers as we arrived to Kuala Lumpur (May 12). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043849449-36QWSIXYP0RPSRKHKZUY/malaysia_lowres63.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Near our hotel, VCR Cafe is clearly where the locals hang out, and after several days of watery coffee, a sight for sore taste buds! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043857437-QQSJ3OI2R2QLLVSWDA6H/malaysia_lowres62.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia And Avo-Toast! After months in Southeast Asia, we felt back at home with this delicious breakfast option at VCR. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043864637-73CYFTS0LMO8T2J7K9CP/malaysia_lowres64.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia A visit full of laughs as we gawked at all the birds gawking and sqwaking at us at the KL Bird Park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043881329-TYHL3JCZXH3PKX4YKDV9/malaysia_lowres66.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia In the Bird Park, most all feathered creatures roam free, protected by a netted canopy with the KL skyline as backdrop. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043887876-CTWD79WNGHT6RM276CJY/malaysia_lowres67.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia In the KL old town, is a large and vibrant Chinatown with local shops, cafes and groceries lining the streets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043912314-4ZC4DDGFL1MMD9AHQ4X6/malaysia_lowres70.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Trendy Merchant's Lane in Chinatown is a modern take on ethnic food, with fresh juices and coffees as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043927503-DTNNKQIYSHL0PG7HQ5SE/malaysia_lowres72.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia On the edge of Chinatown, sits KL's oldest Hindu temple, Sri Mahamariamman, built in the late 1800s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043936731-RE8O18Y5NDJHYXWD8GPS/malaysia_lowres73.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Guan Di Taoist Temple houses a 59kg copper Chinese pole weapon, thought to protect any person who can lift it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043944206-OASC5N8OASZ82CPK4GIS/malaysia_lowres74.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Just off Merdeka Square, where the Malaysian flag was lifted for the first time at their independence in 1957, visitors can see the blend of colonial British and Islamic architecture. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043954569-DCHU1A9O893QXMNOZZ3I/malaysia_lowres76.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia Also off the Square is the impressive Sultan Abdul Samad Building, built in the late 1800s to house the offices of the British colonial administration. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498044007506-OQ2ND4I60Z50ZCB64Y8W/malaysia_lowres80.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia At KL Eco Park, at the base of the Menara Tower, the canopy walk takes you into the remaining rainforest in the center of KL. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1498043983207-8LSUB71LPRNMWL4NOQU3/malaysia_lowres78.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Malaysia, Truly Asia The magnificent, radiant view of Kuala Lumpur from our friend Chris's rooftop terrace. http://www.jrny.life/countries/2017/5/13/singapore-revisited monthly 0.5 2017-05-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494663525697-1DBGQZPJQ487Y1AC634J/Singapore_lowres34.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited Popular brunch spot, Tiong Bahru Bakery is synonymous with the charming neighborhood that bears it name and where we stayed in Singapore (April 28). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494663537145-IN1ZXUZEBB6WB9DT4WXL/Singapore_lowres35.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited Low-rise, white apartment buildings add to Tiong Bahru's charm and show off Singapore's clear skies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494663551541-S2WYBHWYAT6XEQB6F3OL/Singapore_lowres32.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited The famous Hainan Chicken Rice at Chatterbox was our first taste of Singapore. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494663587989-WGBO4A59Q6VOKWMZBQVR/Singapore_lowres30.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited After lunch, we checked out several of the malls lining Orchard Road, including the futuristic ION Orchard. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494663599392-30AEYP18HRIHI3VPG85Q/Singapore_lowres31.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited Don't look up! The dizzying inside of ION Orchard. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494663633395-BPBBLYP26N72C6AEO7PE/Singapore_lowres25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited As the sun began to set on our first day, we checked out the beautiful Singapore Botanic Gardens. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494663689769-EC1GGKI5MZCKBR4YKJ14/Singapore_lowres28.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited The Gardens have many walking trails and paths, including this one around a tranquil lake stocked with fish, turtles, and even swans. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494663749002-GG5LKKR88YV8X0U5QG3F/Singapore_lowres27.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited In a mega-city like Singapore, the Gardens provided a natural escape from the hustle and bustle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494663773625-9XJ0FQA0TP9S0RIEY33R/Singapore_lowres24.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited Newly opened, the Gardens' picturesque Wetlands discovery area provided a great sunset backdrop. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494663807081-P3LQVHCSZNPONPCZAVRV/Singapore_lowres23.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited And we couldn't not maneuver on the ropes net and stare up at the lush tree canopy! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494663843653-CTN962HSKY3QX25M1W6V/Singapore_lowres22.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited As night settled in, we visited busy Newton Food Centre, packed with local hawker food stalls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494663876552-8ACEHQVXIJ5BABUNT90Z/Singapore_lowres21.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited Our favorite discovery here was the black carrot cake, a savory side dish made of daikon, egg and radish. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494664703445-SMTT8MV6PXZD9T0DBXIR/Singapore_lowres001.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited The next morning, we visited Gardens by the Bay, which lies in the shadow of towering Marina Bay Sands (April 29). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494664712859-07NX5PFT03QWVX89FV4F/Singapore_lowres002.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited We loved the lush jungle setting with the backdrop of the city's financial district. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494664077720-6CAGVQ0NYWCW5XTZSQ0U/Singapore_lowres19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited We also loved that both the Botanic Gardens and Gardens by the Bay were free, with tickets needed only for special sections or exhibits. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494664094040-XNGSMCFZ0JJ8SGN65UM2/Singapore_lowres17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited The Gardens displayed many of the works by French photographer Chris Morin-Eitner, who imagines iconic world buildings or skylines reimagined with nature taking over. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494664096657-TW3HED22PU5RJQNXX459/Singapore_lowres15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited There are many art installations throughout the Gardens, and a favorite was this seven ton bronze sculpture of the artist Marc Quinn's young son. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494664098290-PKAH5SIU4U7JDSCCP1HV/Singapore_lowres14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited Another look at impressive Marina Bay Sands with the Singapore ArtScience Museum in the foreground. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494664102344-8ZZ3UZCXP11WZRXFK0C4/Singapore_lowres13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited As we walked the Esplanade, we spotted river otters hunting and eating fish. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494664130891-X9FCI42U44C2D5CVYGIE/Singapore_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited Looking up near St. Andrew's Catherdal we found this wonderful mirrored walkway and artistic installation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494664144087-JNBSMI2KTOL4SGDU0YH2/Singapore_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited The iconic colonial-style Raffles Hotel, named after Singapore's British founder Sir Thomas Raffles, opened in 1887. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494664150310-CPEANQC0P47M3XBAGEFZ/Singapore_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited Hip Haji Lane lined with pubs, cafes and shops offering the latest trend of the moment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494664154297-FVBGUWOSZQ87ZB0LE5LR/Singapore_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited Little India's Tekka Centre offers many different Indian dishes as well as local food options. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494664164072-KYQ5IZKE4AYS1FM2AQO6/Singapore_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited After a day of walking the Singapore streets, we were delighted by our filling masala dosas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494664172840-ECOQFYFYARIER32X7E3W/Singapore_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited We were charmed by the vibrant colors and busy streets of Singapore's Little India. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494664310856-3LNQXKBLIK2SNHOW0ZBL/Singapore_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited A convertible is a Singapore must-do, and thankfully our friend Fay offered to drive us around town to see the sights. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494664321951-KKD4U34UXCKBFCWGWP3B/Singapore_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited Singapore transforms at night, as displayed in the vibrant, bright lights of ION Orchard. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494664330201-T5ROQY5PBTP7ZS9Z0VUK/Singapore_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited After dinner, we took in the Singapore skyline by night, including the impressive view from the Fullerton Hotel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494664375880-TROSQGFR3YLXJY3FME12/Singapore_lowres29.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited The next morning, we visited Plain Vanilla, a short walk from our hotel, for a welcomed coffee and quick brekkie (April 30). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494664341280-PKI5UUYPJPBT8MIJTBII/Singapore_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited Martin was particularly glad to be reunited with Avo Toast after so many months in Southeast Asia. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494664352353-R36NXH06IHWM333VNLZ1/Singapore_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited We joined Fay and Chris for a delicious Indian lunch at Samy's Curry in Dempsey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1494664366807-87J4L2RFL42TBHSH2WY1/Singaopre_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Singapore Revisited We left Singapore feeling impressed and inspired by the beautiful city and our wonderful friends. http://www.jrny.life/countries/2017/4/27/thailand-interrupted monthly 0.5 2017-06-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452198157-FAIW4JNDYXP8WBPHV7IV/lowres_thailand2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Our first stop was Bangkok's Royal Pavilion Mahajetsadabadin, built in 1989 for the King to receive visitors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452210931-631WLHQAXPYRWFSUFCEI/lowres_thailand3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted One of many beautiful tributes to Thailand's King Adulyadej, who passed away this past October. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452220234-794J2UN4ME3I0XPVPQ20/lowres_thailand4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Early morning sun reflecting off one of the many buildings in the Wat Pho temple complex. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452226807-NM1P4001IQ9MLERFTTRJ/lowres_thailand5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Featuring many sacred Buddha images, Wat Pho is best known for the 46 metre long reclining Buddha. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452234868-Y1U699P3V5JXVNV6PM5J/lowres_thailand6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted The colorful tops of Phra Maha Chedi Si Rajakarn within the Wat Pho complex and dedicated to the first four kings of Thailand's Chakri dynasty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452240548-G9GCVJNA8E19PL27KRBY/lowres_thailand8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Simple gallery display within modern Gallery Drip Coffee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452248043-Y9J1NZOPYD1S1C8H6QD1/lowres_thailand7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Our lovely barista carefully and beautifully preparing our cold brew coffees at Bangkok's Gallery Drip. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452297785-7ZRUCJTM6DQGYTX1TBON/lowres_thailand9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Entrance and main display building at Black House, or Baan Dam Museum, featuring the works of Thai national artist, Thawan Duchanee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452304355-J8ATJ5RPCWT6KP6G36TY/lowres_thailand10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted The interior of the main building, featuring many ornate objects, including chairs, tables and mirrors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452310707-PJAOJ6O5XQGJOTS6B737/lowres_thailand11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted One of our favorites chairs set against an oversized piece by the artist. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452320621-OS9T4OEPEPWQIUW8684I/lowres_thailand12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Many unique animal skins, bones and furs are found throughout the Black House. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452329423-8T22EQ2SSEEGR4TL0G7P/lowres_thailand13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted The Black House is actually made up of more than 40 buildings, each filled with displays of Thawan Duchanee's work. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452338585-T7570CENB53ZKOHTKNZI/lowres_thailand14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Most every surface throughout the Black House complex is covered in various artworks and creations, some weirder than others. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452354880-UT8I0MK4NX12GV7OLB3H/lowres_thailand16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted These adobe-like white buildings each with different exterior and interior artistry were beautiful juxtapositions to the black structures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452345442-IIBOT8GPMX0RVK097DF0/lowres_thailand15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted An interior display within one of the adobe structures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452363108-EVHNH3JRWAHOMSKUJ1YU/lowres_thailand17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted The glistening White Temple, or Wat Rong Khun, was only built in 1996 by local Chiang Rai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452371063-VBLNOHZKJ1O9KPEAWIZC/lowres_thailand18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted More art installation than traditional temple, Trey sits with one of the many colorful exhibits found around the White Temple. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452379295-WWJYHRLLD18JNWYDW10V/lowres_thailand19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Our refuge in the burning heat of Chiang Mai, My Secret Cafe in Town. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452383351-T8M7FK0JFLU6PSKHQY3E/lowres_thailand20.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted My Secret Cafe is a beautiful, cozy spot to enjoy a light breakfast or iced coffee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452428236-DGCET8D9OCL2UC94XA7N/lowres_thailand21.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Long tail boats line the shore on a section Railay Beach, which is only accessible by water. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452435824-L210ZNEZ9QJ7046Z3JNY/lowres_thailand1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Our short journey to Railay Beach from Ao Nang, Krabi, passed towering limestone karsts that dot the shoreline. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452478649-V8EK66B2SP25M8O3BQGP/lowres_thailand26.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted The passing scenery as we make our way to Railay Beach, which is surrounded by towering rock formations. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452445685-3IFW6SNYONWPJKRSKZKS/lowres_thailand22.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Locals flock to the Princess Cave to ask for help with fertility... and catching fish, which locals mainly gawk and stare. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452453671-OGCR7ILU6K82S705IF2E/lowres_thailand23.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Phra Nang cave, otherwise known as Princess Cave, is full of phallic offerings to the resident goddess-spirit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452461479-WCM11IYKEVHDVHM3AAO5/lowres_thailand24.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Another sight to behold on Railay is the tourists climbing up the limestone karsts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452467523-FHFZCGGKME9IN9W437XT/lowres_thailand25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted The west coast of Railay is a stunning place to spend the afternoon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452562758-4M8RFTT9TPRDB68J5Q4R/lowres_thailand27.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Koh Lanta's Klong Nin beach offered dramatic, stunning sunsets nearly every night we were on the island. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452569241-CODDRF3A9LXCB8UV2V7X/lowres_thailand28.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted At the southern tip of Koh Lanta, one side of the national park has a rocky coast, which together with the lighthouse made us feel like we had been transported to New England. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452576780-4P13Q8JXCP05G1QZ04HL/lowres_thailand29.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Trey seeks out a better view from the top of one of the jagged rocks above the shore. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452583705-UXW6XMOKY056NQNUKF5J/lowres_thailand30.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted The opposite side of the park provides a wide sandy beach but beware of jellyfish. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452590510-5LRHTKP6Z5FOPVVH1P0L/lowres_thailand31.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted The park is also home to a gang of curious macaques who search the beach for unattended bags of food. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452601949-TRGHXKELJIOLJJCSM3F4/lowres_thailand32.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Several of the macaques carried nursing infants as they entertained visitors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452608765-WENE5CHN2JL9T3KHUQ1R/lowres_thailand33.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted View from Noon Restaurant, which overlooks Nui Bay near the southern tip of Koh Lanta. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452615359-ZDK4O551K0KARLLO1HIV/lowres_thailand34.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Not very many beaches can be found on the east coast of Koh Lanta, but the old town is worth checking out. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452622328-BH2I3OQK135C57W9KG2Z/lowres_thailand35.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted A walk down the pier on the east coast provides a panoramic view of the islands that dot the Andaman Sea. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452628760-51I48CY2D3NAHMD6DDOO/lowres_thailand36.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Klong Nin beach is made even more dramatic during low tide. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452635248-JAQ3QB1T3EY6CCWDY6Y1/lowres_thailand37.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted We couldn't stop giggling about the friendship between these two, who walked down the beach together and always stayed close. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452641663-EEWACY1OLS23OKHHELR5/lowres_thailand38.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Taking in one of the magical sunsets on Klong Nin Beach, Koh Lanta. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452647576-EBTQ9UZE7GLO3ERBOOM6/lowres_thailand39.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Ko Lanta is a beautiful place to recharge and take in the tranquil surroundings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452653348-S4JDZ7WPUTZX3WL6MNMZ/lowres_thailand40.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted On our final night on Ko Lanta, we released floating lanterns into the night sky. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452659452-QTPFFTEC8BDTREQ2ST3G/lowres_thailand41.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted As we released the lantern, we made a wish for the future. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452667134-SFU3HOWNCW7CASOANWD8/lowres_thailand42.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted The Sri Lanta resort was our home on Ko Lanta, offering a scenic spot to recharge. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452674991-HGQ8HE9QWTFFVKVD5HE6/lowres_thailand43.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Another colorful sunset, spotlighting the many open air bars and restaurants that line the beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452684195-2GN5NV8HD5YR1W17JE0I/lowres_thailand44.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted Ko Lipe, near the Malaysian border, offered another perfect beach and warm shallow waters. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452689907-0DU08RMEIO8LTJMAAMMN/lowres_thailand45.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted In Ko Lipe, we stayed on Sunrise Beach, which stretches for about 1KM and offers views of Ko Adang. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1493452696243-QIOKY3VC411E1VVEZRJ7/lowres_thailand46.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Thailand, Interrupted On Ko Lanta, we swam and stayed submerged in the beautiful clear water to beat the tropical heat. http://www.jrny.life/countries/2017/4/9/slow-living-in-laos monthly 0.5 2017-04-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491721635094-AGMG3GODWBLA91FLQTUK/lowres_Laos1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos Vientiane, set on the banks of the Mekong River and across from the Thai border, has recently redeveloped its riverfront, which when we visited was full of activity, including exercise groups, food vendors, and couples strolling at sunset (March 30). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491721680282-H5EVA8MER6AN8KVW6OMY/lowres_Laos5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos A short minibus ride north brought us to Vang Vieng, where we celebrated Martin's birthday at a picturesque boutique hotel beside the Nam Song River (March 31). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491721646055-QPRLDNVZ87FJD9I6Y19M/lowres_Laos2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos We used bicycles to explore the small farms and villages set amongst the jaw-dropping landscape (April 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491721662307-MQKL30K0VYLK9D9PGBCD/lowres_Laos3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos As we rode along the winding roads, we saw local children splashing in streams, while adults lounged in hammocks and under the shade of small porches--it was a Sunday after all! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491721672121-Z4SG8MI4D9VVKL0DXYKF/lowres_Laos4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos With the daytime temperature in the mid-90s, we were thankful for the moody, rolling cloud cover surrounding the hills. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491721748619-6DR404I099PPGZ0QR2TQ/lowres_Laos6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos As we walked to dinner on our first night in Luang Prabang, we stumbled upon Wat Manorom, a small monestary where monks were settling in for the evening (April 3). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491721760028-SA61BJYWWVP5LXG74I89/lowres_Laos7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos The bustling, crowded night market in Luang Prabang was full of activity and tourist treats. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491721767800-WFQPFIQHF4KL9QYJM3G4/lowres_Laos8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos The night market's food district was smoky from the small grills that cooked various meats on long sticks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491721776097-YNDAMW0Y2SKIGIK4CX98/lowres_Laos9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos For less than $2 USD, market visitors could fill their plates with heaps of local food, served hot or cold. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491721809616-BPDF48VP7DLHZG4M5CAE/lowres_Laos12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos An early morning walk brought us to multi-tiered Kuang Si Falls, falling 60 metres from large pools at the top (April 5). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491721823145-5WXICUCWKLYW5BXDTUGM/lowres_Laos13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos After climbing the steep trail to the top of Kuang Si and crossing the large pools of water via narrow bamboo walkways, we realized there were stairs (!) on the opposite side of the falls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491721787328-7R0IH80Z1VGC7YAYLJNK/lowres_Laos10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos We had to stop and take in one of the many beautiful cascades downstream from Kuang Si Falls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491721796937-GTL4VYWHL436QRTQG74S/lowres_Laos11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos The many tiers and cascades are the result of travertine formed by the spring water of Kuang Si. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491721846993-VWAKGY8FDN0L409SZ82H/lowres_Laos15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos Leaving Kuang Si, we passed a beautiful organic farm, and of course, we had to stop the tuk-tuk to see what they were growing! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491721834998-IME265035JA5CA93QOLE/lowres_Laos14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos At the farm, there were beautiful rows of salad greens and "two mad dogs" who moved us to jump back in the tuk-tuk and head on our way. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491721854956-FYEEU3KVPKURACWXPFTK/lowres_Laos16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos Luang Prabang is the former capital of Laos, and its royal palace glittered in the bright sun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491721864503-ZA3WSFATT7XGXM95HKFL/lowres_Laos17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos We had a delicious Lao-French dinner at dreamy Manda de Laos, set upon several UNESCO designated lotus ponds. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491722723505-UE1D34O7H1F5TVS6L9P2/lowres_Laos26.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos Our 2-day slow boat journey up the Mekong would take us north-west toward the Thai border (April 6). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491722707800-7QTDVVSC5P6D5PBIO0TF/lowres_Laos24.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos The boat's captain steered us along the water, dodging rocks and river life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491722656392-HHZ4Y4ZTKJHM7OY08UEZ/lowres_Laos19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos We saw lots of water buffalo along the river, mostly lying on the shores or submerged in the water to keep cool. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491722664269-5JAMLRDIW1LKK053J5O5/lowres_Laos20.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos More lazy buffalo at the river's edge as we sailed along. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491722645779-VRAV5F45HPO6PA022CI8/lowres_Laos18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos We traveled for about eight hours each day, offering plenty of time for reading, journaling, and taking in the sights. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491722677201-YW4XX2ZU8WZG44MJFIH2/lowres_Laos21.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos Several slow boats parked along the river's edge. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491722699893-5DBHLPJICSHTJSLP3YY2/lowres_Laos23.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos Our boat was filled with both tourists and locals, some of whom we'd drop off along our route. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491722732750-PCJPT3W06I2A1EINBLH1/lowres_Laos27.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos But the boat rarely came to a halt, getting only close enough to shore for the traveler to jump onto rocks or sometimes other boats. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491722690597-TVLT16IIYEE3CMFL6B26/lowres_Laos22.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos We also saw herds of goats, including their young, foraging for food along the Mekong. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491722715663-KTXIOICWN49RYAZCC1M2/lowres_Laos25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Slow Living in Laos The slow boat was a beautiful way to travel to Thailand, and see another side of Laos away from the towns and tourists. http://www.jrny.life/countries/2017/4/1/vietnam-its-complicated monthly 0.5 2017-04-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038135851-M154AGFYJQ3YD74HK71E/lowres_vietnam9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated We arrived in buzzing Ho Chi Minh City after an eight hour bus ride from Phnom Penh, Cambodia's capital (March 12). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038169057-3T4Q633VX1YY9W4EPPG1/lowres_vietnam10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated We fell in love with our Airbnb and had our fair share of cold brew coffee from the cafe downstairs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038482560-YBDU7S7GWZQTW0FYN506/lowres_vietnam18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated After the bus journey, we were starving and ran to the nearest restaurant for our first taste of southern-style Beef Pho. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491037917108-2Z8E3E7XB9ZYK0AQC6SR/lowres_vietnam1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated We couldn't get enough of the sweet and spicy Pho beef broth, full of herbs, scallions, and red chilis. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038405519-ISN3UOL5DVPYPHN44ET9/lowres_vietnam16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Martin snuck an order of Banh Mi for an after dinner snack. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038448025-C8V33Q34Y6UP11N1XV1T/lowres_vietnam17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Think Vietnamese version of your local sandwich shop, Banh Mi are served all throughout the country. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491037951809-CWR7THVKVOY9JMMQEM4U/lowres_vietnam2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated There's a lot to see in Saigon, and we started with the impressive Notre Dame Cathedral, or officially Our Lady of The Immaculate Conception (March 13). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491037973229-PLKOG9J50OLGZ7VLE13F/lowres_vietnam3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Across from Notre Dame, we found the bright colonial Post Office, which was handy for mailing postcards to friends and family. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491037999421-6G0MPPGWA4OVPDBOPO9H/lowres_vietnam4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated The interior of the Post Office features high arched ceilings and a portrait of former revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038024931-F7AZ3SR0AOL3DP5XCDNO/lowres_vietnam5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated We took a short walk to the Ho Chi Minh City Hall, where a statue of the man himself stands proudly in front. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038050728-4U6VCO3398BQENDXJKHD/lowres_vietnam6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated After all that walking, we stopped to refuel on a snack of pork grilled in lemongrass. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038107641-LDUFOYJK31R8NDCY6D61/lowres_vietnam8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated For dinner, we sought out Banh Cuon, ground pork and shrimp in rice batter rolls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038077766-LFS7CX8JE8P42TA2ZKIR/lowres_vietnam7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated The rolls are light and tasty... we may have ordered two servings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038524440-WE7BGZNSYGLHTYDH18XJ/lowres_vietnam19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated You truly never know what you'll see on the streets of Saigon or on the back of a motorbike zooming through the city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038285775-HGV9GPF555HER7A4F3ZR/lowres_vietnam12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated For breakfast the next morning, we found ourselves sitting in the alleyway at Banh Mi Hoa Ma for eggs and coffee (March 14). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038230768-JOWF31WSLPYEXXN52TKL/lowres_vietnam11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Served with flaky baguettes and pickled vegetables, the still sizzling eggs were topped with pork, onions and tofu. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038314306-V2FBS9NM9YS3LNKMQ0AZ/lowres_vietnam13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated To make Banh Xeo, our lunch that day, the cook spreads rice batter very thin in a wok before adding shrimp, pork and bean sprouts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038331587-DXAGW5R2LFVRWUGGPTY1/lowres_vietnam14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated For dinner, we made our own rice paper pork rolls, stuffed with lettuce, herbs and thin slices of carrot and cucumber. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038361082-U3FBIHRQMQ8XXYCQ1BLU/lowres_vietnam15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated We folded all the ingredients into a tight roll before dipping in a light garlic and chili sauce. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038548848-U0KTFXN2S53RXLEKVI7C/lowres_vietnam20.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated We don't blame her! All this delicious food made us want to nap as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038980844-HCQZP3IU23L4MDU3IDNQ/lowres_vietnam25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated The streets and buildings of colorful Hoi An are draped in vibrant flowers and whimsical lanterns (March 16). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038883600-6BSFGOLM3UMH18U2M8UM/lowres_vietnam21.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated The area is well-known for its silks and custom tailoring. Many tourists don't leave without a made-to-measure suit or dress! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038903849-NYR00DF8T07ZEAYT6SNP/lowres_vietnam23.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated We admired the mission and work of the disabled artisans at Reaching Out Teahouse. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038934558-V3IH9Q6Y1U6OQATBNNQ4/lowres_vietnam22.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Many of the workers are deaf, which means there is a calm, peaceful silence throughout the cafe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038956495-0QTAD2UD6NFAMZGJBGXI/lowres_vietnam24.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated And the traditional Vietnamese coffee is rich. To beat the heat, we had ours on ice made of coffee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039121331-YEEI8X7BA25U42KD0XRR/lowres_vietnam34.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated A signature sight in Hoi An, the elaborate Japanese covered bridge includes intricate, detailed carvings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491038998140-XIJ9JU1H4OK673QEID3D/lowres_vietnam26.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated We visited the beautiful Tran Family Chapel, which has been largely left as is since the 1800s, and features a wall of deceased family members (with shrines to each nearby). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039023958-J9SHMSMIHKRAEF54BBBZ/lowres_vietnam27.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated The alter in Tran Family Chapel for offerings, incense burning and lucky coins. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039045935-ZZEQM177CLFHCVV6AFNU/lowres_vietnam28.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Hoi An Ancient Town is pedestrian and bicycle only, which gives some reprieve from the buzzing city motorbikes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039060721-37BJVPF0R4ZL59FEKA83/lowres_vietnam29.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Vietnamese ladies line the small lanes through the Ancient Town selling souvenirs and gifts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039071880-B3GZCBETPHFURD0K6GAD/lowres_vietnam30.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated The grand Phuc Kien Assembly Hall was built of Chinese architecure in the late 1600s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039087221-I8FLTTBM69QCHW835Y4O/lowres_vietnam31.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Inside the Assembly Hall, visitors can purchase large coils of incense, which provide good luck to families and burn from the ceiling for about 3-weeks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039097474-PS3ZCC6JYHL18NME5WVR/lowres_vietnam32.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Martin loved the local market, with its bustling activity and live animals. We had to pull him away from this smiling poultry peddler! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039109864-F4T4DAWKBBGQA4S2MQ04/lowres_vietnam33.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated There is a rich history of Vietnamese ceramics here, even a museum dedicated to the craft, and many of the shops offered a modern version. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039130549-PXEP5HL4GQVBOK3RXMKF/lowres_vietnam35.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated As night fell, women and children sell floating candles that can be set in the river to drift away with your wishes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039144069-OY7AV38OWXJU316WW4TE/lowres_vietnam36.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated The many colored lanterns brings a bright and festive atmosphere to Hoi An's Ancient Town. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039152976-QI847HENQ6G2156AU23J/lowres_vietnam37.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated A beautiful candle seller along the banks of the Thu Bon River. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039273351-2TVWKOCAC8A17YK0QTUM/lowres_vietnam40.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated On our drive from Hoi An to Hue, we stopped at Marble Mountain, which is dotted with Buddhist and Hindu grottoes (March 18). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039260553-Z2G793UIFPH6LAZOHKGS/lowres_vietnam39.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated On Marble Mountain, the towering Xa Loi Pagoda overlooks the coast of the East Vietnam Sea. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039247854-PD6Y1IJH8T6U8WAEMI3G/lowres_vietnam38.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated The bright, colorful interior of one of the pagodas dotting Marble Mountain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039288471-SGMG0P1094B2AF2G6EQD/lowres_vietnam41.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated As we went over Hai Van Pass of the Annimate Range, the sunny day turned into dense fog and mist. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039310296-3T0S6309YLF655OWR0DW/lowres_vietnam42.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated But once downhill, the skies cleared to reveal the tranquil Lang Co beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039328085-9R8594T66UMVQXE07R1H/lowres_vietnam43.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated When we arrived in Hue, we once again searched for local treats, finding these Banh Beo, small rice cakes with shrimp, at Hanh restaurant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039336687-T8HSEX2I86CDTV0MJL6M/lowres_vietnam44.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated A favorite of ours, we also tried Hanh's Nem Lui, lemongrass pork skewers, rolled in herbs and rice paper. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039355265-K9I1EVI78V253AARJBOA/lowres_vietnam46.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Ok, so it was a tasting menu, we had to try Hanh's Nem Ran, or fried spring rolls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039372728-OKJ2QJVHC9X1B8RGMRIF/lowres_vietnam47.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Finally, rounding out our tastes of Hue, we tried Hanh's Banh Khoai, also known as a Hue pancake. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039381542-TE3KOK7QA35A6TCZDNU7/lowres_vietnam48.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated We spent the next day exploring the Hue Imperial City, inside of the massive Citadel (March 19). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039392721-1M7NS9O0JYA2WMK0WYVJ/lowres_vietnam49.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Once entering the main gate, we came upon Dien Thai Hoa, or Throne Palace, where the former dynasty would take meetings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039408895-GZBKV8DEVP3JB2DTBL6O/lowres_vietnam50.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated A doorway in the 2.5 KM wall that separates the Imperial City from the innermost Purple Forbidden City, which only the imperial family could access. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039418373-I51SBROXUKZH567SY2KB/lowres_vietnam51.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated We passed women in colorful costumes readying for a traditional court performance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039427617-VQUX17VKU31BYIPDT1A2/lowres_vietnam52.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated One of several "long corridors" within the Imperial City, now lined with history and photographs of the complex. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039441756-R46NNFIBL3YEWH6VYSHW/lowres_vietnam53.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Although ignored for many years, the Imperial City is undergoing restoration, but we loved the faded colors and crumbling walls throughout the imposing palace. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039639390-41NR7B9SHBMQ8Z59RACC/lowres_vietnam74.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Hanoi features an Old Quarter, with narrow streets overloaded with myriad motorbikes and vendors. In the middle of this frenetic area, we found peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake (March 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039499821-2W5J9BQCD3CWW3WOYAU7/lowres_vietnam56.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated The cramped and crowded Old Quarter from above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039489061-QA8H3GGWYQUDY3W784A7/lowres_vietnam55.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Like Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi features colonial buildings throughout the city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039477691-REHTHTG2LS0R48PUFL4R/lowres_vietnam54.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated A young waitress (kidding!) helps us decide on dinner. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039698882-AFMU64SGESTJT0K7BZEQ/lowres_vietnam80.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated We visited famous Pho Gia Truyen an embarrassing amount of times while in Hanoi! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039707784-4OUQ8TJG7YDNG4Z8BPND/lowres_vietnam81.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Amazingly, the cook at Pho Gia Truyen prepares delicious Pho in a small alleyway with the help of two others. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039516153-F0F46QHK5JNPD77YV0LX/lowres_vietnam57.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated The Pho in Hanoi is clearer and brighter than the Pho we found in the South. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039529009-T9D6ZZJ369O7DM84EUS8/lowres_vietnam58.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated A common sight in the Old Quarter, we sat on the curb after dinner and enjoyed a pot of traditional tea. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039548174-CKDXXUQNCJ11PEVPUZVB/lowres_vietnam59.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated While we sipped our tea, these gentlemen swept off the curb and then brought over their own table and chairs to sit down in front of us. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039556347-O92QOPS7FLMV9KQVMGYZ/lowres_vietnam60.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Like in Saigon, anything can be carried on or sold from a motorbike.... balloons! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039597503-AZONR9U960LMBGPGPYAN/lowres_vietnam70.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Or here, we saw ladies selling flowers from their bicycles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039607643-O7UCU0OKSD7UQTR4AJLT/lowres_vietnam71.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Another delicious foodie find, we fell for the layers of flavor in Hanoi's signature Bun Bo, rice vermicelli and beef. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039617473-43XY5N4VPHQIMNLA64FO/lowres_vietnam72.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated And it wouldn't be a trip to Vietnam without trying Egg Coffee, which is frothy and sweet (March 26). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039627414-TKDDWVUHCH1WG9P0FBFG/lowres_vietnam73.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated A biker tries to navigate the small alley to the cafe in back where he can park his motorbike. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039647218-6QYAV3Q43NLXL0SA7932/lowres_vietnam75.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated The bike is so overloaded with baskets and hats that he had to sell some before hopping on! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039654964-XC88KC0X4J77RJ581LBU/lowres_vietnam76.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated More food! This time we tried Bun Cha, which is pork served over rice noodles with a small amount of broth (less than Pho). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039665306-5CC1SUR4T3LN09SIILQI/lowres_vietnam77.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated One of the many street scenes throughout Hanoi's Old Quarter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039677718-M6YN9D3IDEEY614MDV8I/lowres_vietnam78.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated We found respite from the chaotic streets at Hanoi Social Club, a multi-story coffeehouse and performance space in the Old Quarter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039688128-NX1HRF8GZ9IFW3BNRMS7/lowres_vietnam79.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Another street scene we loved along the Old Quarter alleys. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039716698-AQKDL7MYSHPAE8ZLWZO6/lowres_vietnam82.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Nearby our hotel, trains still run through the crowded Old Quarter streets, causing locals to pull belongings inside according to schedule. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039801504-MB8OU6UK8CTAS2K7BECA/lowres_vietnam61.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Olympic honorary flag procession ceremony of Vietnamese youth in Sapa town square (interestingly this was one of two Olympic ceremonies we witnessed while in Vietnam - last year Vietnam one its first gold medal -ever- in Rio!) (Mar 22).   https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039813782-I2Y6HRMKEHQYI1L2V6JW/lowres_vietnam62.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated View from above of the garish and ornate Ham Rong Mountain park in Sapa (Mar 22). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039822068-TSUHQ0WD0LH81RR4QNFZ/lowres_vietnam63.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated View from our hotel of the sun setting over the Hoàng Liên Son mountain ranges, which surround Sapa village (Mar 22). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039834390-YLF4H8Z7U2QD7ONHZP9T/lowres_vietnam64.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Silver Waterfalls in Cat Cat village (Mar 23). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039854023-NHZQE6NTLPR4SPGIH5AN/lowres_vietnam65.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated View of the impressive terraced rice fields taken in while trekking to Lao Chai village near Sapa (Mar 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039869083-0B9V1FWCZ6FYAUBT890D/lowres_vietnam66.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated A group of gossiping Hmong tribeswomen briefly pausing from their daily commute with tourists (Mar 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039883456-A0MT2X2TGXXZZVQS6K0E/lowres_vietnam67.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated One of the many stunning vistas we enjoyed while on our three days of trekking in the terraced Hoàng Liên Son mountain ranges near sapa (Mar 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039893651-BWB57M4S2L3V47L3I8D3/lowres_vietnam68.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Gazing out across the fields of fallow rice terraces, you can almost feel the centuries of human effort and energy in this place (Mar 25). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039913017-7CKEXSAC1JZ1V97J9MU3/lowres_vietnam69.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Just two water buffalo buds hanging out and taking a break from munching on grass. They're only allowed on the terraces when rice isn't in production - they keep the weeds down and fertilize the soil- so they deserve a break! (Mar 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039925918-VJCQ9GCUI8MH40N2O2FA/lowres_vietnam83.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Etherial, otherworldly Halong Bay is 100% worth the hype. Designated a World Heritage site in 1994, this is one of the biggest attractions in Vietnam for a reason (Mar 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039936066-GV42O9A8LBT8YK4QIFHI/lowres_vietnam84.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated Martin taking in the beauty of these towering limestone islands from the deck of our cruise ship, The Cristina Diamond (Mar 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039944338-D79F5KCOH6C3I9XKXS6K/lowres_vietnam85.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated There is an eerie quality to the abandoned Cuan Van floating villages which we passed while rowing to visit the pearl farm in Halong Bay (Mar 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039959635-ZPPKGB2R3J1DEJT4YR81/lowres_vietnam86.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated A beautiful, ornate fishing boat docked at Cuan Van floating village in Halong Bay (Mar 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039968298-GQJQ7WW47STWDXKAASET/lowres_vietnam87.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated The 'Gate to Vung Vieng', this impressive cavern has been carved by millennia of waves crashing against the limestone walls of this giant island (Mar 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1491039976905-PM6VHGUNFXN96N6OYQ4N/lowres_vietnam88.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Vietnam, It's Complicated We'll be dreaming of the painting-like layers of Halong Bay's limestone mountains for many years to come (Mar 28), http://www.jrny.life/countries/2017/3/19/wandering-the-kingdom-of-wonder monthly 0.5 2017-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489982445301-DR50WKXDHGUWYFL7N7JZ/lowres_cambodia1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder Sunrise at the famous Angkor Wat temple, built in the 11th century as a Hindu temple and later transformed to Buddhism (Feb 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489982471795-PTT3ASHIRG60EDUXF59G/lowres_cambodia2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder Named #1 tourist destination by Lonely Planet, hundreds of tourists joined us along the reflecting pools at Angkor (Feb 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489982502077-EX245RKRM9JZ4CHJH4AY/lowres_cambodia3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder Appearing in Tomb Raider, Ta Prohm is one of the more popular sites within the Angkor Wat complex (Feb 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489982529611-A7B0QBJG3E3OSFJCJLHF/lowres_cambodia4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder Built in the late 12th century, Ta Prohm (originally called Rajavihara) was a Buddhist monestary and university (Feb 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489982558267-7I69D65REY1NXWFWG8OV/lowres_cambodia5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder Left in much the same condition as it was found, Ta Prohm feels prehistoric with its jungle surroundings and trees growing out of the ruins (Feb 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489982597230-6TSMT0T3QBBUIZ8RD2RA/lowres_cambodia6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder Records state that more than 12,500 people called Ta Prohm home upon its founding (Feb 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489982642549-HMKWG8TLE6U1HT1YEVR3/lowres_cambodia7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder The large trees growing on Ta Prohm are thought to be silk-cotton trees (Feb 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489982671098-6NCDQ0FNLE7FY4T4WQ0J/lowres_cambodia8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder Expansions and additions to Ta Prohm went on until the late 15th century (Feb 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489982720007-19501HH9J66EPANI0RO5/lowres_cambodia9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder After the 15th century (and fall of the Khmer Empire), Ta Prohm along with the other temples throughout Angkor Wat were largely neglected until recently (Feb 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489982776547-C3RE13I29RPW6SFWY1L8/lowres_cambodia11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder A smaller temple, Ta Som, was built toward the end of the 12th century in honor of the King's father (Feb 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489982747306-5YEC7HFWNC9UGR4761OC/lowres_cambodia10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder Martin taking in the crumbling ruins of Ta Som (Feb 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489982811344-DNKZETQ36XHVVAN3FWP6/lowres_cambodia12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder Up close detailing of daily life is depicted on the walls and columns of Preah Khan, another temple in the Angkor complex (Feb 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489982876924-PE38M8E9MUIGSEM5IDCF/lowres_cambodia13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder The pink-stained sand stone walls of Preah Khan contain alga and microbial biofilms (Feb 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489982907190-1FYRSPCFT4JG7X0BY1X4/lowres_cambodia14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder Bayon, our favorite temple in Angkor, contains oversized carvings of peaceful and smiling faces (Feb 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489982933948-7GXNPBGRVS9Z0OGJ67I3/lowres_cambodia15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder - BayonS Built as the official state temple in the late 12th century, the faces of Bayon are thought to resemble the king of that period (Feb 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489982999215-EP1P48ZGPEVVSN1FFKYI/lowres_cambodia16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder Beng Mealea, which means "lotus pond" in Khmer, is an 1.5-hour drive from the main temples of Siem Reap... or even longer if you chose to visit via tuk-tuk (March 1). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489983034388-VF8MQW4CLSFM7UWUO6FW/lowres_cambodia17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder Like Angkor Wat, it was originally constructed as a Hindu temple in the early 12th century (March 1). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489983060892-LTJCXF4HGUK4M7VQ5HC6/lowres_cambodia18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder A bit off the tourist trail (although becoming increasingly popular) the Beng Mealea complex was largely left as it was found except for the recent addition of walkways (March 1). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489983088491-AAU341Y47R2SN3D0KT8U/lowres_cambodia19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder Crumbling all around, beautiful vignettes of former gallery walls exist throughout the complex (March 1). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489983122245-L87V4YQNJLI94NUE94PG/lowres_cambodia20.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder Former libraries lie to the right and left of the path through the complex (March 1). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489983170790-J6QXHK647IU6VXH4OXWQ/lowres_cambodia21.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder Beng Mealea was the center of the town when it was constructed, featuring a 45 metre wide moat (March 1). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489983268335-3UCQ610LUS0E2V5N52A1/lowres_cambodia22.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder Surrounded by beaches on either side, we found respite in the isolation of Palm Beach Bungalows (March 2-9). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489983295569-N2ZXACJU2HTNICU813PV/lowres_cambodia23.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder Our week on Koh Rong allowed for plenty of time for rest, reflection and Vitamin D (March 2-9). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489983318904-L26TNR966S361N485SE6/lowres_cambodia24.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder In Phnom Penh, we started our Khmer cooking class at Boeung Keng Kang market (March 10). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489983338519-V819A85JWZNIS45IRYD3/lowres_cambodia25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder Trey gets help from Khai, our instructor, to fashion a bowl from banana leaf for the Amok dish (March 10). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489983358786-US8TSEK2VW86GV66M5PF/lowres_cambodia26.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder The Royal Palace entrance as we walked through the Royal Park, which was buzzing with local families and tourists enjoying the cooler evening air by the river (March 10). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489983382567-DOM284D7NUXE5OB8MG6Q/lowres_cambodia27.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder Young monks resting on the shore of the Tonle Sap River, which joins the Mekong in Phnom Penh (March 10). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489983400776-WP8GPBZRMGVEO1YH4OI5/lowres_cambodia28.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Wandering the Kingdom of Wonder One of the many small alleyways in Phnom Penh, this one leading to a branch of ARTillery Cafe (March 10). http://www.jrny.life/countries/2017/3/11/a-golden-dawn-in-myanmar monthly 0.5 2017-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219093075-KHGAWG45J9VI613SKJJQ/golden_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon shines bright in the pre-dawn sky as locals and monks bring their offerings as early as 4am (Feb 9). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219106682-EC9SV190WLSMTHF1YFGE/golden_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar The Burmese people are devout Buddhists and spend the early morning in thoughtful contemplation and prayer (Feb 9). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219133041-EY57P8B7WXLWGCZWKAO5/golden_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar During sun rise as the sky changes color so too does the gold-leaf of the glimmering pagoda (Feb 9). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219154559-NWUNPMVJV87B5UXOYUXV/golden_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar The sprawling Shwedagon complex is dotted with small shrines and temples surrounding the main pagoda (Feb 9). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219165898-FL8Y3RSUBKANHYAAE76E/golden_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Maha Bandula Park in Yangon offers views of the obelisk Independence Monument, Yangon City Hall, and the Sule Pagoda, which is now surrounded by a traffic circle (Feb 9). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219183425-87AZG5ZWCUEMK7DE2J14/golden_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Once the capital of Burma, Yangon, formerly known as Rangoon, is the country's largest city (Feb 9). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219193492-PO4V2POO33W7EA8HWWWI/golden_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar The broad beaches of Ngwesaung provided ample space for fast moving motos and galloping horses (Feb 12). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219203247-MQBQTATT1MHHGOMUNPF8/golden_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Along the beaches, you can find small pop-up restaurants that offer fresh coconuts and seats with a view (Feb 12). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219210042-E7CPF2TICIQMCD1I6EOD/golden_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Kyauk Maumghnama Pagoda (or brother and sister rocks) provides a still space to soak up sunset (Feb 13). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219336744-V4KLRI44BZ0GZGUWC1QA/golden_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar A must-do, visitors to Bagan depart early to climb atop crumbling temples and take in the majesty of sunrise (Feb 15). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219352405-YSRU1RIIUYBVV0WF9XPP/golden_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar With more than 2,000 temples and pagodas dotting the landscape, Bagan feels like a mysterious leftover from ancient days (Feb 15). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489224485926-WL1HKU26877LOAI8YDAH/golden_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar For a unique experience, some choose to rise with the sun in a hot air balloon (Feb 15). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219363726-06CZJ8UQBG0IP40RTX59/golden_lowres14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar While exploring on e-bikes late one afternoon, we got tangled in a goat herders daily migration (Feb 16). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219371201-5XSFUXBWYMMMQRTYPJJ1/golden_lowres15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar A beautiful post-sunset display within a Bouddhiste temple (Feb 16). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219386823-VCIJO9R3ZSASAVIBDMG9/golden_lowres16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar The Irrawaddy River offers many scenes of village life along the 12-hour journey (Feb 17). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219396002-GZA1N3NXQCDLL4RALUIR/golden_lowres17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Broad and long, the Irrawaddy snakes its way through Myanmar from north to south (Feb 17). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219412179-6SEDSZNCN1NF0TOH3DMM/golden_lowres18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Many glittering pagodas dot the shoreline and hills along the River (Feb 17). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219424272-T7RY19Q7RTHTTDLDT76S/golden_lowres19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar In this golden land, the Irrawaddy provides an excellent location to take in sunset (Feb 17). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219500142-TDFZXH3DS9LO89EW1L9L/golden_lowres21.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar The stairs up Mandalay Hill are lined with seller stalls, restaurants, and shrines (Feb 18). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219511768-K9N7X6QS3SL24CNWEBQY/golden_lowres20.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Many surprises and interesting moments lay in-store as you climb upwards, including these drowsy puppies (Feb 18). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219521381-5JYW5L586Q0X7U8FAV4S/golden_lowres22.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar At the top, local officers took a break and also enjoyed the view (Feb 18). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219535038-ZO9EWIN2IL6LG9P7QS7W/golden_lowres23.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar A hot, hazy day shrouded the panoramic view on top of Mandalay Hill (Feb 18). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219551050-OA2HI86JUEWEBCJHVLMA/golden_lowres25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar A short taxi from Mandalay, historic U-Bein Bridge is as shaky as it looks (Feb 18). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219561197-QZG9RQT7LRVYRTZS47T2/golden_lowres26.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Hundreds of tourists and locals cross the Bridge daily as well as line the water's edge and sit in small boats to take in sunset (Feb 18). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219575752-L4030TUY34HU3AYWGV4N/golden_lowres24.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Made of nearly 1,100 wood pillars, U-Bein is thought to be the world's oldest and longest teak bridge (Feb 18). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219583409-QIY6MBTRSXJIDSSK6ZTS/golden_lowres27.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Playful monks pass a rattan ball beside the shore of U-Bein (Feb 18). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219676996-1DEHNSPZBY9Z3CLCYEU9/golden_lowres29.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar After a daylong trek, sunset near Pattu Pauk village provided time for reflection and rest (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219667680-DPSSPERY5W3MMUUIEJW2/golden_lowres28.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar The 2-day hike wandered across farmland, over hills, and through tribal villages to Inle Lake (Feb 20). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219740081-XLFLF9AGRVCZ1YRHK253/golden_lowres35.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Inle Lake is Myanmar's answer to Venice, with long tail boats and kayaks used for daily commute (Feb 21). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219691348-T8O410VHSX8160N0S5DE/golden_lowres30.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Bursting with life, Inle boasts several endemic species, providing opportunity for local fishermen (Feb 21). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219700339-VRKABE8DBTJRA2VFRYXC/golden_lowres31.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Harvesting lake-bottom weeds allow farmers to create floating beds for their vegetable gardens (Feb 21). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219716109-5A13LGSYTDWBAAZDTCGN/golden_lowres33.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Another early rise as we took a long boat to watch the fishermen at sunrise and spend a day exploring Inle Lake (Feb 22). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219707541-L53WDUES6Z24OAWX2XKK/golden_lowres32.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar The balancing fishermen use one leg to paddle as they fish along Inle (Feb 22). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219731693-5J63UX51J2WVWPLK0TXQ/golden_lowres34.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar As you would expect, fish caught in Inle are staples of the local diet (Feb 22). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219759773-GF3XP45GKQZPM4ZB88YB/golden_lowres36.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar A glittering temple along the lake's edge (Feb 22). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219769787-SJZHXGW9II6FXJ8E03VO/golden_lowres37.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar The Kayan long neck women start to wear brass rings as early as five years old and add to them at certain age milestones (Feb 22). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219801301-60XNVRSZXIGAKE9Z37H0/golden_lowres39.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar The local market shifts daily from village to village with many boats parked along its edge (Feb 22). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219785540-FEY58IWC9OYE0E2W3EOF/golden_lowres38.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Shoppers wait for their boat taxi to make their way back home with their finds (Feb 22). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219821465-O6AMAHY0ZZINU22K8M0W/golden_lowres40.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Vibrant fresh flowers are sold at market (note the roots still attached) (Feb 22). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219838987-J467YKAMR0VNBLVJZ02T/golden_lowres41.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Local farmers bring many different fruits and vegetables to market along with meats and fish (Feb 22). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219852401-535TE7LTD4MHFN54B9B9/golden_lowres42.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Up one of the lake's many fingers, Indein village features many stupas, both old and new (Feb 22). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219868999-ZZ5QTBFTBWFY5NJUCOGO/golden_lowres43.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Some of the older crumbling stupas are being restored by locals (Feb 22). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219881729-N7TRIJCBU70RGL3A3H15/golden_lowres44.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar Farmers of the floating gardens grow mostly vine produce such as tomatoes, cucumbers or gourds (Feb 22). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1489219892704-7O8O2VXBEUHT7H38K9X1/golden_lowres45.jpg .DESTINATIONS - A Golden Dawn in Myanmar The stilted bamboo thatch homes along Inle Lake offer protection and shade from the hot sun (Feb 22). http://www.jrny.life/countries/2017/2/6/australia-town-country monthly 0.5 2017-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486384468175-IBWI6S4STH2AZ68DOPBT/GOR_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country The Great Ocean Road is a magnificent 243 km drive along Australia's southern coast, west from Melbourne (Jan 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486384494508-SGCB3L913VUNK10QY2A8/GOR_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country But first, fuel! We started the drive with a look around the Farmer's Place, a working farm and cafe, just outside Geelong (Jan 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486384517875-14AU3O21JPXS7FMT22CL/GOR_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country The bacon and egg on a roll (smothered in BBQ sauce) was melt-in-your-mouth goodness (Jan 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486384556544-IMIHLBD5K3IAW6B14RYB/GOR_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country Bells Beach is a surfer's paradise (Jan 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486384582548-DPEI2SJT6WEE6UO1F16W/GOR_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country Another scenic vantage on the Great Ocean Road (Jan 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486384636695-LF3F49IW8AGLHEI56YZ0/GOR_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country At Kennett River, koalas hang out in the trees just off the Great Ocean Road (Jan 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486384679749-Q0CIEDFWBU989P4UA2OV/GOR_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country A short trek in Cape Otway revealed towering trees hundreds of years old (Jan 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486384719738-KSXF4R4802ADQLGT5H5Q/GOR_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country The forest is home to a diverse range of vegetation, fungi and the only location in the world for black carnivorous snails (Jan 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486526062335-W1SXOTDYPG0OIXWSUZV1/GOR_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country Beautiful paddocks of wheat near the famous 12 Apostles (Jan 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486384790250-NELTHAWR458MSSHF2YAG/GOR_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country The 12 Apostles, which are giant limestone stacks near Port Campbell, are constantly changing both is shape and number (Jan 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486384805542-0G11NX08PW7GIUQX1C1Y/GOR_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486384820601-QVEJ7LXPG1UCHKCYOI4E/GOR_lowres13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country We fell in love with Port Fairy, a former whaling town off the beaten tourist path at the end of The Great Ocean Road. Be sure to check out Port of Mexico, Bank St + Co., Coffin Sally and several other small, quirky cafes and restaurants (Jan 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486384846726-1KB9EZRPJY2DH6NBHM75/GOR_lowres14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve offers stunning views and chance encounters with bush-life (Jan 25). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486384871827-T970IJBMY5NNP63NWD93/GOR_lowres15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country Tower Hill is great for short scenic walks or picnics and you never know what you'll see along a trail (Jan 25). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486384890276-I1XYEZ2A6FRROVB8NHUW/GOR_lowres16.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country The rugged coastline along the Great Ocean Road, near Bay of Islands (Jan 25). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486384945557-VBZD0ISRDX2Q09JY6350/GOR_lowres17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country It is hard to capture the scale of these massive limestone formations in the Bay of Islands (Jan 25). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486384972819-LSTYSIRQBCL0711B88AN/GOR_lowres18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country The islands dot the coastline for 23 km (Jan 25). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486384986492-RF78O8NV8I5ZDCA7NNVO/GOR_lowres19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country London Bridge did fall down. Over 25 years ago, the middle of the formation collapsed, leaving two tourists trapped on the far side (Jan 25). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486385107140-SBL8S5VP62IHDM1QXB6F/IMG_1020.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country We flew to Hamilton Island and then took a ferry to Airlie Beach, where we boarded 'The Blizzard' for a 2-day sail through the Whitsundays (Jan 29). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486385326414-OEFQV3D8D9JFIHSDOYJZ/P1010689.JPG .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country With expansive sky all around us from the boat, we took in a stunning sunset and the brilliant stars across the Southern Hemisphere sky (Jan 29). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486385450048-5QOA4A7JXEMLFD8I8052/P1010694.JPG .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country Skipper Danny and first mate Heidi took great care of us over our time in the Coral Sea (Jan 29). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486385607457-YFAMQNB1Q6MFQBZPK4UL/P1010697.JPG .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country After some nighttime showers, the sun reappeared in the morning with this vibrant rainbow (Jan 25). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486477845625-31DW0EH82EHZYJ7G087E/Mtns_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country The Blue Mountains are a short 2-hour drive west of Sydney. We stayed in the quaint mountain town of Leura (Feb 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486477770259-H3Q9YEDBDY7LZ50FJVE4/Mtns_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Blue Mountains offer vast views, rugged landscape and countless waterfalls (Feb 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486477656393-F4G36PP0COW9IFXCAAJ0/Mtns_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country These ancient raised sea floors have been shaped for millennia by transformative power of water (Feb 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486477783266-WLEDLCCUA0NLSJ0TJVWV/Mtns_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country The Wentworth Falls track offers stunning vistas and impressively hewn (and sometimes steep stairway) paths that have been awe-inspiring tourists for over a hundred years (Feb 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486477824154-LVDIGSUBJ63G761BTCG2/Mtns_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country The Blue Mountains get their name from the verdant blue hue lent by the numerous eucalyptus trees, which draw life from deep aquifers in the region (Feb 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486477864795-KSSLTJ2Z2CQT6YLSISR0/Mtns_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country Stunning vistas of the mountains reminded us of a verdant version of America's Grand Canyon (Feb 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486477875927-N7WZJH6N61TDTOG88I5N/Mtns_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country The Blue Mountains are home to about 1,000 canyons and Australia's greatest known number of slot canyons (deep, narrow trenches formed by running water) (Feb 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486477905693-JH4KSGOWSQUX4YPO1M3P/Mtns_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country In 1994, the world's rarest and most ancient tree, the Wollemi pine, was discovered by David Noble. It was thought to have become extinct 30 million years ago, however, saplings can now be inexpensively purchased in local garden stores (Feb 2). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486478301919-2JMBL0ZP7WLGPQUM59CR/Melbourne_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country The iconic entrance to Luna Park on Port Phillip Bay in St. Kilda, Melbourne (Jan 25). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486478465739-G6QPLP4JS2PF6FSYU35U/Melbourne_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country If Melbourne is known as one of the world's great street art capitals, then Hoiser Lane is the heart of it all (Jan 26). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486478319323-VTLNXG9WECRAZ9526T1N/Melbourne_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country The small street changes daily (hourly?) and already presented a tribute to the victims of the tragic event on Bourke Street just days before (Jan 26). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486478310066-MMRTTJ3GO023W1H7J1DE/Melbourne_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country Another example of the colorful sayings and creative expressions found on Hoiser Lane (Jan 26). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486478210143-SFCW1JY261ZU7QK62PBM/Melbourne_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country The prodigal son returns! Martin's former terrace apartment on Rathdowne Street in North Carlton, Melbourne (Jan 26). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486478268578-J4RQJ28SS1CAEELTHZWQ/Melbourne_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country Formerly known as the Rathdowne Street Food Store, where Martin trained in the art of coffee, is now called Small Victories, serving trendy avo toast and eggs (Jan 26). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486478591553-AT314SM6S1OIHFYLNM26/Melbourne_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country The non-profit CERES cafe, nursery and education center provides Melbourne a unique glimpse into sustainable living (Jan 26). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486478476456-8ZPN0GJZ1KDV98GO97H4/Melbourne_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country CERES offers a delicious spread of locally sourced fare on offer at their market (Jan 26). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486478573047-NXN5ZEKGYM16UJ39SL58/Melbourne_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country Bike troubles? No worries, you can learn how to fix it (or build a new one from spare parts available for free!) at the DIY CERES Bike Shed manned by knowledgeable volunteers (Jan 26). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486478582209-P74JC2IHVCOK7VMAOY06/Melbourne_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country On site plant propagation is one of the many services offered by this dynamic community center - plants are for sale at the market (Jan 26). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486478604921-ZG9EYWUOOCX18T0RZCN4/Melbourne_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country Lentils As Anything is a non-profit, pay-what-you'd-like vegetarian restaurant, proceeds from which go to serve vulnerable communities in Melbourne and beyond (Jan 26). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486478279946-NIQTUO6VNYGVEU06GZWJ/Melbourne_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country After a traditional parma dinner in Melbourne's CBD, we stumbled upon festive Chinese New Year celebrations in the city's dynamic Chinatown (Jan 27). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486478756568-GCR93H2AZODK6S53QGQU/Sydney_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country After breakfast, we took in the panoramic view of Sydney's skyline from Dover Heights (Feb 5). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486478917825-XWSL49JYZC0LLSP9FGAX/Sydney_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country Taking in lunch and a view of the iconic Iceberg's Pool of Bondi Beach (Feb 5). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486478926359-MCZMVWMZMYBIOYE0YUPY/Sydney_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country A heatwave swept Sydney, forcing most everyone to the beach, including small Tamarama (Feb 5). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486478936141-UX3KSHCFGOX63MKSRH0L/Sydney_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country The Bondi coast walk, from Bondi Beach to Coogee offers scenic views and several beaches in-between (Feb 5). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486478946547-K71KSJV1GWADPPK3DQPY/Sydney_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country Sydney's beautiful (and free!) botanical garden showcases the country's exotic vegetation just outside the CBD (Feb 4). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486478960569-4DCALA6F205AZ3XSWVNO/Sydney_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country A ferry ride through Sydney Harbour is a must-do (Feb 4). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486479073652-G7ER4KA5FA2W91AS09VS/Sydney_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country The Harbour was full of sails and watercraft attempting to beat the heat (Feb 4). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486479086167-VEAYH6WKRY5I6KEPF19R/Sydney_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country Our ferry took us to nearby Watsons Bay with several beaches and views of the Sydney skyline (Feb 4). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486479097183-RX4IP0X56NZ3RJAGT40T/Sydney_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country A quick, easy walk at Watsons Bay reveals the mouth of the Harbour (Feb 4). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486479116284-N3PUUUTW2Z0DG4JKDEGN/Sydney_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country We were once again wow'ed by the awesome, rugged coastline of Australia (Feb 4). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1486479123927-IDGJO1AJN9AHHCQJM8J1/Sydney_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Australia Town & Country Looking across to Manly, which frames the Harbour entrance (Feb 4). http://www.jrny.life/countries/2017/1/26/kia-ora-new-zealand monthly 0.5 2017-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485844047862-TTEA1RWE7114EJUOPNOV/NZ_lowres1.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! Taking in views of Auckland from the top of Mt. Victoria, an old volcano, located across Waitemata Harbour in Devonport (Jan 3). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986007329-XW8VFWVRQINXEXTX8O2R/NZ_lowres2.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! Charming Victoria Road in Devonport (home to musician Lorde), lined with cafes, bars and antiques shops (Jan 3). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986029900-CARD72SZ7KRSSACBE8KY/NZ_lowres3.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! In Auckland, we walked 'Coast to Coast' across the city from the South Pacific to the Tasman Sea (about 16KM) and found this beauty in Albert Gardens (Jan 3). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986042682-C5POUKW6UCSYWR4WIKM2/NZ_lowres4.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! Along the walk, we climbed Mt. Eden, one of the most significant volcanic cones in Auckland (Jan 3). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986074183-RE6LN0HKPTTEVT1XAXJ0/NZ_lowres6.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! After landing in Christchurch on NZ's South Island, we jumped in our Lucky Ranger and headed straight for the West Coast via Arthur's Pass, the highest crossing of the Southern Alps (Jan 4). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986061349-PSV9B6V394MPMO5NMTGQ/NZ_lowres5.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! Crossing Arthur's Pass, we found Castle Hill, made up of giant limestone boulders that create the effect of a run down castle (Jan 4). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986093701-3LLVTUZG3SF0ACGY9L3B/NZ_lowres7.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! Once on the West Coast, we visited the town of Hokitika and the incredible Hokitika Gorge with unreal ice blue water (no filter here!) and a famous swing bridge (Jan 5). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986123621-8K8Q7VT3CMD58A0QX16W/NZ_lowres8.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! A usual sight while driving the South Island, lots of cattle! While not as many in number as sheep, NZ does have about 10 million cattle compared to a human population of just under 5 million (Jan 6). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986151437-CLRJC11B2QJ0CE1JQ68P/NZ_lowres9.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! We trekked up to within 400 metres of Fox Glacier, one of the few in the world to end in rainforest (Jan 6). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986172763-YZFG3Q9YRAHAWIZ1E1HF/NZ_lowres10.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! The outflow of Fox Glacier forms the Fox River that runs through the glacier valley to the coast (Jan 6). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986193614-L2T3TRKK5NIYL57UTFQ1/NZ_lowres11.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! Still on the West Coast, just before Haast township, we found Ship Creek which offers both a dune and a bog walk (Jan 6). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986234214-221XKMZRV5WH61WSAJIW/NZ_lowres12.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! The Ship Creek bog walk took us through pre-historic vegetation and towering trees (Jan 6). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986284978-IJNHABAVP9EVKDRJ1FZS/NZ_lowres13.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! Driving from the West Coast to Queenstown along Haast Highway, we discovered one of New Zealand's tallest waterfalls (96 metres), Thunder Creek Falls (jan 7). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986474673-NIX5EIQ59GDTZTUI0V4Q/NZ_lowres14.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! We also took a short walk across another swing bridge to take in the crystal Blue Pools of the Makaroa River (Jan 7). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986511829-VDN0KU5U8ESK0FU8C40Y/NZ_lowres15.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! On our way to Milford Sound, we saw fields and fields of vibrant pinks, purples and blues of wild lupines (Jan 8). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485988095092-CTPBYMLQH1S4K2TBMNMH/NZ_lowres16b.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! The scrubland of the Wilderness Scientific Reserve, just east of Te Anau on the way to Milford Sound, features landscape reminiscent of the last Ice Age (Jan 8). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986660580-GLBDF6969DJTWX4XNWJD/NZ_lowres17.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! Another typical NZ scene, some of the country's nearly 30 million sheep (Jan 8). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986676380-EZAEDYB9AAOGECAXEWB6/NZ_lowres18.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! Along the Milford Road, we stopped and camped overnight in Eglinton Valley, once filled with glacial ice (Jan 8). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986694061-DFVO29O9LZD2X1PIOP3H/NZ_lowres19.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! The moody Milford Road was wet and misty on our final stretch into Milford Sound (Jan 9). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986707640-HK31XEHLRVDMKQQXDD56/NZ_lowres20.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! The icy view as we waited to pass through the 1.2 km long Homer Tunnel with unlined granite walls and 1:10 decent into the Cleddau Valley and Milford Sound (Jan 9). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986721915-VJOFG0BXKXWID377CTLZ/NZ_lowres21.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! Majestic Milford Sound, the star of Fiordland National Park, was once called the eighth world wonder by Rudyard Kipling (Jan 9). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986731930-1FZO7FZLWK6ZBRU6FRM6/NZ_lowres22.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! The rock faces dive straight into the Sound, with only 10% of vegetation actually rooted while the rest grabs hold for dear life (Jan 9)! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986739008-YHUAQCBMVIAN9T3P2F2H/NZ_lowres23.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! There are only two permanent waterfalls in Milford Sound, but after heavy rainfall, hundreds of temporary falls form down the rock faces (Jan 9). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986772516-C3OGNZZ3LFKNKABRZYDJ/NZ_lowres24.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! Known as one of the wettest areas in the world (with nearly 6.5 metres of rain annually), Milford Sound is home to seals, penguins and the earth's largest bottlenose dolphins (Jan 9). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986798360-B6LGDOBZZA2Y946SBDW9/NZ_lowres25.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! Delighted to find more fields of lupine in Fiordland National Park (Jan 9). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986833460-L2X5B64NDUFR3HLKF7R6/NZ_lowres26.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! The scenery around Lake Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park (Jan 10). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986855149-59T7RSP1SS7ORQDO9O0P/NZ_lowres28.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! Driving north past Queenstown, the landscape becomes hot and arid with hills covered in tussock (Jan 10). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986871339-HGOOBNF1KWIRJCT1FB6A/NZ_lowres29.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! Stunning Mt. Cook is New Zealand's highest mountain with Lake Pukaki in the foreground (Jan 10). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986894605-CL4B2KUOVQVRWC6H7SJS/NZ_lowres30.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! One of three parallel Alpine lakes, Lake Pukaki was formed when moraines of a receding glacier blocked its valley. The glacial runoff gives it a distinctive blue color (Jan 11). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986915907-08S0MU0IYSFTGWSI9YF0/NZ_lowres31.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! The Church of the Good Shepherd, completed in 1935, sits on the edge of Lake Tekapo and still holds regular services with stunning views of the mountains and lake from the picture window behind the alter (Jan 11). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485986997175-0XNJFEHG09Y73AD6DFXG/NZ_lowres32.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! More than 300 twists and turns over Takaka Hill, we ended our NZ journey in Golden Bay, framed by the Farewell Spit (Jan 13). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485987111595-Y0YSOJAA07VR8GEAR913/NZ_lowres33.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! The northern most tip of the South Island, the rolling hills on top of hills are dotted with what else... more sheep (Jan 13). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485987231456-A05NAJ2SQLWX6O0MPESS/NZ_lowres34.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! Low tide (during a full moon, no less) presented massive beach at Wharariki, which is only accessible via a 20-minute walk through paddocks and rolling hills (Jan 13). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485987262420-D48MZIN16APOQDPWNXYF/NZ_lowres35.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! Cliffs border Wharariki Beach with the famous Archway Islands dotting the waters and on this particular day, massive wind gusts changing the landscape before our very eyes (Jan 13). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485987329602-SI2C8YA6C3F959G9BVE3/NZ_lowres36.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! The ombre mossy greens covering the giant rocks along Wharariki Beach (Jan 13). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485987367947-EEW1M69KO7A6CZXRC9NE/NZ_lowres38.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! Perhaps recognizable to Hobbit fans, we had peaceful Salisbury Falls all to ourselves after an early morning trek (Jan 14). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485987389770-DZB3VM3WI4F2WBMFBKTE/NZ_lowres39.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! Salisbury Falls flows into the Aorere River, which was known for its original suspension bridge, built in 1887 and used until it was swept away by flooding in 2010 (Jan 14). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485987413033-BFU5C496T6NPR303MD9T/NZ_lowres40.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! Golden Bay's Te Waikoropupu Springs, known locally as Pupu Springs, is famous for its water clarity (63 metres depth) and is spiritually significant to the native Maori people (Jan 15). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485987430505-LYZJDLBVD09A4NCQZWAJ/NZ_lowres41.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! We spent a lovely morning enjoying one of the deserted beaches along Wainui Bay (Jan 16). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485987452346-0X32KL6S4OYNF508LBIO/NZ_lowres42.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! We scaled down the side of a cliff to reach Doctor's Beach, a secluded hideaway with views of Wainui Bay (Jan 16). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485987480954-2YT7ZPUR58U2E6BDKVIE/NZ_lowres43.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! The rolling, windswept waves of Wainui Bay reminded us of the beaches of Hawaii (Jan 16). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485987516923-VY0L473RO5GANU4DTQFI/NZ_lowres44.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! A 2.5 km trek from Totaranui led us to Anapai Bay, which was nearly deserted except for a group of pied shags that hung out with us for the afternoon (Jan 17). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/580bc5711b631bb287eac335/1485987549264-IAPCIH54DCEQWCQMPF8M/NZ_lowres45.jpg .DESTINATIONS - Kia Ora, New Zealand! 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