tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10487316937782375432024-03-28T20:28:15.318-07:00But to travel ...Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-14137228371495468792024-03-20T05:57:00.000-07:002024-03-25T23:17:29.515-07:00Sri Lanka (4-13 March 2024)<p>We decided to go to SL again as our previous trip back in 2020 was not completed because of Covid. We got quotes for flights and accommodation. The price of flights had almost doubled since 2020😳. There were cheaper flights via Qatar but the waiting period was much too long. We decided to go with Emirates. We booked our accommodation with booking.com and Agoda. Our planned itinerary was 3 nights in Bentota then Galle for 2 nights, then Colombo for 4 nights (we were leaving at 3am therefore had to book a fourth night). Paying for a holiday always fills me with much trepidation, feeling anxious about things happening before the impending holiday (accident, illness, death). I am so paranoid that I will take out travel insurance immediately after I pay for the flights. I am also anxious about booking for holidays via booking.com and Agoda. I will also constantly contact the home stays or hotel to confirm the bookings.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfWdQXvUMiAnkQODhpcF7GdX2ch7q5OeMiYcm0GrU3a7nYEkRoJT9gq4pRklVCJg4w6J-jPzWHgdBvOPM4p6VsBd0sJHUKu966OtljQb0x8SM3_2TRUp2Axm5Sa-A8rFCTOxUWh21kKBDmZQO5kqCiY7QojVpBEi-tkvu6scUBj8J6TW7Y2zmPMbz1ZnFw/s4128/20240311_180614.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfWdQXvUMiAnkQODhpcF7GdX2ch7q5OeMiYcm0GrU3a7nYEkRoJT9gq4pRklVCJg4w6J-jPzWHgdBvOPM4p6VsBd0sJHUKu966OtljQb0x8SM3_2TRUp2Axm5Sa-A8rFCTOxUWh21kKBDmZQO5kqCiY7QojVpBEi-tkvu6scUBj8J6TW7Y2zmPMbz1ZnFw/w300-h400/20240311_180614.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p><br />The day of the holiday arrived. Once you are at KSIA the flights and connecting flights go by so quickly and before you know it you are at your final destination. It always still amazes me how one can get to another part of the world in just 2 days 🛩Note to self, seat 29 on Emirates should be avoided at all costs as passengers seated in this row will be served with their meals last😖. </p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO9PoIdo7rsc5U1cE7CgShDBGGli9GMgFqTVbjsk97biYr901dg8Jy1ndq_HQm6SUuTn39-L3nQDmIyLoqC2RckQbedspRhUmCvUVRwqfhHNDvUYBkua2YspWU4t34JiDA_5V1LZz2hRTeXPQQrF4HB_5I554y9yDgu77EFbbhXOcsClFMgkGMXXdITC04/s4128/20240305_152159.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO9PoIdo7rsc5U1cE7CgShDBGGli9GMgFqTVbjsk97biYr901dg8Jy1ndq_HQm6SUuTn39-L3nQDmIyLoqC2RckQbedspRhUmCvUVRwqfhHNDvUYBkua2YspWU4t34JiDA_5V1LZz2hRTeXPQQrF4HB_5I554y9yDgu77EFbbhXOcsClFMgkGMXXdITC04/w300-h400/20240305_152159.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p>We booked our driver in SL with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/p/Jeev-Srilanka-tours-Private-Driver-License-Guide-100027047454685/">Jeev</a> who came highly recommended. He arranged our airport and hotel pick ups. Our flight arrived at 18.20 in SL, the drive to Bentota took about 2 hours. Our homestay <a href="https://www.booking.com/hotel/lk/aayu-39-s-guest.html">Aayus Guest </a>was the best place we stayed in SL, just as how we had anticipated it would be. The breakfast was amazing and the bed was super comfy, the host Thillini was awesome. We enjoyed Bentota, a quiet beach town resort with a railway line running through it. We enjoyed the quiet laid back lifestyle, and walking back to the homestay in the dark after supper, which will not be possible for one living in SA. We ate at <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g297895-d13837810-Reviews-Bamboos_Garden_Restaurant_Bentota-Bentota_Galle_District_Southern_Province.html">Bamboos Garden Restaurant</a>. The food was good on our first visit and we got to know the waiter who was from Galle quite well. Our last supper here wasn't so good though. Thillini arranged for a tuk tuk (fare 3000 SLR) to take us to the Buddhist temple and the Geoffrey Bawa home and gardens (fare 10 USD each). We were most impressed with the interior of the home but not the gardens. When hubby got sick on the day of our departure Thillini suggested an Ayurvedic tea for him. On the morning of our departure we took a walk to Cargills to get the tea which helped him a bit.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi67a6bLm4P_5ec4O031njRg9zPRkbjPEttZxTqg-RXBQr7Yg1EuNfoFS45Ra6CBclVCPFi2ARfmfATcbYuytSeDBHOx-dipepoGiS_itAdg0KLKAt0wEg9gHYO0B57lpPQ_19dS9Bwj7j2otpeHe5iNPJMwtjKyRNtIVLwUpyOlj6IgrqBtYx4KHmK3QLO/s4128/20240306_141822.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi67a6bLm4P_5ec4O031njRg9zPRkbjPEttZxTqg-RXBQr7Yg1EuNfoFS45Ra6CBclVCPFi2ARfmfATcbYuytSeDBHOx-dipepoGiS_itAdg0KLKAt0wEg9gHYO0B57lpPQ_19dS9Bwj7j2otpeHe5iNPJMwtjKyRNtIVLwUpyOlj6IgrqBtYx4KHmK3QLO/w300-h400/20240306_141822.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid5g-ujT_LvTuPofhjxdeduFj33XHzxzPO198lHTvq66iXoqDPID0BrjY8ZMQDboBQ39lrwaars2jcN26FWby0I537f1aVBTfK22LQPhcykWAA04bs7JAdLm7qn7ezFhch3P4RUAiE_XiU7G2mYBU_NDex47ZfvB0h_R109nZpmczY1pP2-gP1r49AbBDT/s4128/20240305_210413.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3096" data-original-width="4128" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid5g-ujT_LvTuPofhjxdeduFj33XHzxzPO198lHTvq66iXoqDPID0BrjY8ZMQDboBQ39lrwaars2jcN26FWby0I537f1aVBTfK22LQPhcykWAA04bs7JAdLm7qn7ezFhch3P4RUAiE_XiU7G2mYBU_NDex47ZfvB0h_R109nZpmczY1pP2-gP1r49AbBDT/w400-h300/20240305_210413.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p> </p><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6TRW4hQd8gz5fihb8iz5-GlO6o1X72sJiyhkOziPgbmkDxDwPAAm-sEEf3LuxeT9lHfMP61naO7XlvsoUOjc3Wc438OLI8SJS7sMfxm3ZAjwj7Em8JL7irMuIJ4LzB7OFsNFyqniwujRjViNdFXwLDJYQtC6u9W5IqiJ-_Ae6YqC7VXbeZMufm5g_oFuP/s4128/20240306_084108.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6TRW4hQd8gz5fihb8iz5-GlO6o1X72sJiyhkOziPgbmkDxDwPAAm-sEEf3LuxeT9lHfMP61naO7XlvsoUOjc3Wc438OLI8SJS7sMfxm3ZAjwj7Em8JL7irMuIJ4LzB7OFsNFyqniwujRjViNdFXwLDJYQtC6u9W5IqiJ-_Ae6YqC7VXbeZMufm5g_oFuP/w300-h400/20240306_084108.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3096" data-original-width="4128" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1aXK8i8Y4SNyf1NpmPKnTz2D6miqiHvIzcWXaIuvJOMHyzKY3HZsI0VcSnh8CDlgpoqGdKiSR4_F1-B2qAoAweKfoca4wJWRXIiHmfsS2wZyUq_YCgddDKmSpix2evhGD6iGWghUXbI9L6TGkxx_LDh4sp9MhJkswGae3wRQy2_Q_P3cIjAho8pettNyf/w400-h300/20240306_093726.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAJZd4hCd2JgJfM_XLNdVwbLT6vj-6Uzn4P_vS3aZaHIz24MjMFVcfy_I_uXv-st_uQ_CQ_Yr9uy3Ft7LnuJ7_R8yGnJTME87xD4aQl7lhaQHi2FButW-9FJ7Hx1btggXrEgZOUMrzxSXqLEyYy8uC8z_h5BJJxh2jKxEQoYQEOMYcaZigphI2iQ6RSMmO/s4128/20240306_091246.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3096" data-original-width="4128" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAJZd4hCd2JgJfM_XLNdVwbLT6vj-6Uzn4P_vS3aZaHIz24MjMFVcfy_I_uXv-st_uQ_CQ_Yr9uy3Ft7LnuJ7_R8yGnJTME87xD4aQl7lhaQHi2FButW-9FJ7Hx1btggXrEgZOUMrzxSXqLEyYy8uC8z_h5BJJxh2jKxEQoYQEOMYcaZigphI2iQ6RSMmO/w400-h300/20240306_091246.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrQkROOZgJFxnK2O1-W1rb8Rec-qQIThHcxEzK09ApERCLg3Il3qnZso9Jgtb36YV6Q_i3DZACtuBXrvmrPAqlQMwEjdSaJoHDlhhAS_yjuh2xl0Uu3bwWpFpWWObVi1NCE34F0ecNC4PkjIe280HFv34KMpsW4zJQ3iE9F2nDlgOjDEjYlPyL3eGUiNul/s4128/20240306_090010.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrQkROOZgJFxnK2O1-W1rb8Rec-qQIThHcxEzK09ApERCLg3Il3qnZso9Jgtb36YV6Q_i3DZACtuBXrvmrPAqlQMwEjdSaJoHDlhhAS_yjuh2xl0Uu3bwWpFpWWObVi1NCE34F0ecNC4PkjIe280HFv34KMpsW4zJQ3iE9F2nDlgOjDEjYlPyL3eGUiNul/w300-h400/20240306_090010.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Our next town was Galle, which was very touristy. Our homestay <a href="https://albert-guest-bed-breakfast-galle.booked.net/">Albert Guest </a>did not look very pleasant from the entrance to the stairs leading to our room. First of all the lounge didn't have an aircon, and we assumed that our room wouldn't have one either, but it did. We really felt the heat in Galle as was typical for SL during the time we were here. We made sure to explore Galle in the blazing sun and retreat back to our room with the aircon in full blast. We walked to the Galle cricket stadium, and we found that the alcoves of the Galle fort area proved to be a favourite spot for young lovers. We ate at <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g297896-d1452053-Reviews-Indian_Hut-Galle_Galle_District_Southern_Province.html">Indian Hut</a> and food was similar to what you would have in India. The <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g297896-d1817255-Reviews-Royal_Dutch_Cafe-Galle_Galle_District_Southern_Province.html">Royal Dutch Cafe</a> proved to be a huge disappointment. First of all the staff didn't seem very interested in serving us. The food took a long time to arrive and was cold and the roti was dry. The owner mentioned that they do not use microwaves, maybe he should start doing that. After reading rave reviews about <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g297896-d3896138-Reviews-Dairy_King_Cafe-Galle_Galle_District_Southern_Province.html">Dairy King</a> we decided to have ice cream here, hubby's order was nice but I wasn't too impressed with mine. What stood out for me in Galle was the <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g297896-d3628722-r616155935-Historical_Mansion_Museum-Galle_Galle_District_Southern_Province.html">Historical Mansion Museum</a> which was free. This place had an amazing array of antiques and we enjoyed looking at all the stuff on display. There was another warehouse full of antiques and beautiful pottery which we just found by chance. The other 2 museums (National Maritime Museum and National Museum Galle) that we paid for were a big disappointment.</p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxxOrvVZwjGTeMwl3tWPSBEKZ9W3TOnDDHovGXCNKs-PspXHLXUTfHq0mnCMvTBmFNC9fU0s5SSaVv3zdeF0PIexWbusVHumLnxhHnoMDULlE5RaDZOuqkrFrbNLDf6JGa9GAYN3jsyhjGco10KwdoY2gBNF-aO2a_KPJpniLdX66fsjx9Qb0Fr3TO0qPe/s4128/20240310_100147.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxxOrvVZwjGTeMwl3tWPSBEKZ9W3TOnDDHovGXCNKs-PspXHLXUTfHq0mnCMvTBmFNC9fU0s5SSaVv3zdeF0PIexWbusVHumLnxhHnoMDULlE5RaDZOuqkrFrbNLDf6JGa9GAYN3jsyhjGco10KwdoY2gBNF-aO2a_KPJpniLdX66fsjx9Qb0Fr3TO0qPe/w300-h400/20240310_100147.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiFkXtU3qlfiTMIcYEG3jI_25xfDRiw5NJu6yygqJ17FjZtkmTuJ6rMt9XBy34dje9be0XDkqRREWvxK0-wLTm07zCSxMt909yjPMfMhAMQzs_67_Ew5mlCDD5SFvdepdHhLPxonleI_lCS2bcMQdhmvP23xAO5CpMrFvJVdhdxaoRHOj7yZIUpiWUPYWc/s4128/20240308_163103.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiFkXtU3qlfiTMIcYEG3jI_25xfDRiw5NJu6yygqJ17FjZtkmTuJ6rMt9XBy34dje9be0XDkqRREWvxK0-wLTm07zCSxMt909yjPMfMhAMQzs_67_Ew5mlCDD5SFvdepdHhLPxonleI_lCS2bcMQdhmvP23xAO5CpMrFvJVdhdxaoRHOj7yZIUpiWUPYWc/w300-h400/20240308_163103.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSKq7yXDwwVjX2W7rJCfYnqWMv-_hahC5Seo6XLTS5fGuHiU9Yzn_e_5xsMHsb2pfNhdmoOARJK3rYD0H2WiEq-p7N0q2aN5hZOwKFMBuEBavWJgS6mvc-J0UyXAE2IUE9yDlox56Nh_4jy-_LDGydkRR97IlGCXYHihePVLg9g_4_aZEk1Z50VE5emZjN/s4128/20240308_130705.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSKq7yXDwwVjX2W7rJCfYnqWMv-_hahC5Seo6XLTS5fGuHiU9Yzn_e_5xsMHsb2pfNhdmoOARJK3rYD0H2WiEq-p7N0q2aN5hZOwKFMBuEBavWJgS6mvc-J0UyXAE2IUE9yDlox56Nh_4jy-_LDGydkRR97IlGCXYHihePVLg9g_4_aZEk1Z50VE5emZjN/w300-h400/20240308_130705.jpg" width="300" /></a></div></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3096" data-original-width="4128" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0htfs7o05V5h8WMby3Y3XjQ3tdHyOanq0So9J63W2h8E-Mhj_e8t1BHnS5CaZeUh1e57heeWrlWhcJNyZbirq0ek0JEKWKIl3z_EY_4i8yiZUH8iqaQTTl6A9quL-ru-hL-ZnFq_04JKZizrVU3a4IlRAKC_MfePtkTPMelTR0w1EiiD3-UF-YTPtscBv/w400-h300/20240308_133136.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWffJPVArobqSUrTKVJ_Igt5-R1tT-P9ObyyHWL4mTVWHJZ6CMScYdx6k_41rAHyCQPFlf7R557Gg8amciyjLai1KKuVU7JMsV6xJerp4Aize3oaJT2HmfM85zwrCAushOP1uz9El7qsE_-TpPgYzbkNstw6qp89oqTekm9kOHNoJLjKStHboUbzbWDVsg/s4128/20240308_141645.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWffJPVArobqSUrTKVJ_Igt5-R1tT-P9ObyyHWL4mTVWHJZ6CMScYdx6k_41rAHyCQPFlf7R557Gg8amciyjLai1KKuVU7JMsV6xJerp4Aize3oaJT2HmfM85zwrCAushOP1uz9El7qsE_-TpPgYzbkNstw6qp89oqTekm9kOHNoJLjKStHboUbzbWDVsg/w300-h400/20240308_141645.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcVPKNqdHnp5MgTOhzdj5H4nk6Oib-FJ7H6CMiu3T_Qj7d0hhsxkBtmQThDxRYJvgd59xwJXMHK4vuTxKFMnHD78D2n2nIbIVJRIlEOGSS8TlFiN1rwcuHd6a7SbhjX9BSYF37A1tzVn8EHQCSjU59lJVwlmQDNcemm0Gv_gm7anqtvXGdZ1NSe3a_i-PC/s4128/20240308_141652.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3096" data-original-width="4128" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcVPKNqdHnp5MgTOhzdj5H4nk6Oib-FJ7H6CMiu3T_Qj7d0hhsxkBtmQThDxRYJvgd59xwJXMHK4vuTxKFMnHD78D2n2nIbIVJRIlEOGSS8TlFiN1rwcuHd6a7SbhjX9BSYF37A1tzVn8EHQCSjU59lJVwlmQDNcemm0Gv_gm7anqtvXGdZ1NSe3a_i-PC/w400-h300/20240308_141652.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTGEL51oOyffvCldJhS14kaxWEjbFIHQ0vZksEldrUNmr5iuCyPdEb-VTNAPjwxdUZoCkiqStufSiPBzeVHdy6Tr0ttTcc-NoLW5FOdKtPPpq1TwMKeMsg0MWb6P140JvknzeWk5WJV9FLRYvpTNp1Gr4d5tVbSpyKL31cJPlk7opWH-3ObQY82s2rXl0E/s4128/20240307_182931.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTGEL51oOyffvCldJhS14kaxWEjbFIHQ0vZksEldrUNmr5iuCyPdEb-VTNAPjwxdUZoCkiqStufSiPBzeVHdy6Tr0ttTcc-NoLW5FOdKtPPpq1TwMKeMsg0MWb6P140JvknzeWk5WJV9FLRYvpTNp1Gr4d5tVbSpyKL31cJPlk7opWH-3ObQY82s2rXl0E/w300-h400/20240307_182931.jpg" width="300" /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzYTYGrpoTWFYjftcqmMbO5aVk4h6tn2mshgwNGAdDztmtwQA2DFMc8GofqjGoJx1Z_A2sRgIDifGJdughgWCxVGATsvKaubMiSi0gqeNKVf_h95Vu0gz-AdZiy9Aog_IjzXFNEvkLfp1ZL__yZGnBRBWEgMlPpYIulGRrpzvAStPeHn84NQ5Z7NHlsyqV/s4128/20240307_183005.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3096" data-original-width="4128" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzYTYGrpoTWFYjftcqmMbO5aVk4h6tn2mshgwNGAdDztmtwQA2DFMc8GofqjGoJx1Z_A2sRgIDifGJdughgWCxVGATsvKaubMiSi0gqeNKVf_h95Vu0gz-AdZiy9Aog_IjzXFNEvkLfp1ZL__yZGnBRBWEgMlPpYIulGRrpzvAStPeHn84NQ5Z7NHlsyqV/w400-h300/20240307_183005.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></div><p></p><p>Our final destination was Colombo. We stayed at <a href="https://www.booking.com/hotel/lk/zest-metropole.en-gb.html?aid=356980&label=gog235jc-1DCAsohQFCDnplc3QtbWV0cm9wb2xlSDNYA2j7AYgBAZgBCbgBF8gBDNgBA-gBAYgCAagCA7gCjuL0rwbAAgHSAiQ2NjM2ODNmNy0wMThjLTQzMzQtYmIyYi1jZDlhYzQ2YjhlMDfYAgTgAgE&sid=d440a766e9e77d2ee827b6165c33f4c6&dist=0&keep_landing=1&sb_price_type=total&type=total&">Zest Metropole</a>, which had the features of a posh hotel, but the bed was soft and uncomfortable, the wifi wasn't very good, the aircon worked some of the time, and the TV hardly ever worked. On our first day (Sunday) we wanted to know where Cargills was, and a kind gentlemen walked us there, only to find that it was closed. We walked to One Galle Face Mall and found a pharmacy there. Hubby needed antobiotics and we contacted our GP who whatsapped the script. Wifi was only for 1 hour at the mall, luckily a young man at the information desk allowed us to use the hot spot on his mobile. We also visited the One Galle Face Green area and Pettah market. The walk from the hotel to these places was stiflingly hot and crossing the busy streets was another hurdle we had to overcome. Luckily we found cheap eateries and Cargills inside the World Trade Center, which was opposite the hotel, and which we frequented often. <br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXm2Hx2reuDWIuAUOpQVZ6ne7GCWlh3fTmdtZS2JqJxhRKHaXy5uX_yBS8idzsPaqNi6mo7wyuyla1kSHueS93JGl6lqqxmx1Ooh4VWqZ_s71TZQs3dU06hnk3tTAYs7gdXvwUmFmyHsZqa6BDSAbnIvlxQ-Yq5pLg31Js51xuDCvo5jQxqfBuoC9kTkr-/s4128/20240310_141531.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXm2Hx2reuDWIuAUOpQVZ6ne7GCWlh3fTmdtZS2JqJxhRKHaXy5uX_yBS8idzsPaqNi6mo7wyuyla1kSHueS93JGl6lqqxmx1Ooh4VWqZ_s71TZQs3dU06hnk3tTAYs7gdXvwUmFmyHsZqa6BDSAbnIvlxQ-Yq5pLg31Js51xuDCvo5jQxqfBuoC9kTkr-/w300-h400/20240310_141531.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioi-qOvkHWQA7oeafqK3yqjRPrCyQUuVega5jtP2tUla7eI_rdAizoR9FUqoBoL6AmMD1LDHGKuKPsE6rtpsjCcpZNcYT1yyJ6XHtuJv3cW537PFKpKyQKMOOatLEY66SrSp5q4Ogi7gGchMprEbf-ybneak2tvpq6fKUnOh_DOhs-FUoAkBB_S1DNnigx/s4128/20240311_180452.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioi-qOvkHWQA7oeafqK3yqjRPrCyQUuVega5jtP2tUla7eI_rdAizoR9FUqoBoL6AmMD1LDHGKuKPsE6rtpsjCcpZNcYT1yyJ6XHtuJv3cW537PFKpKyQKMOOatLEY66SrSp5q4Ogi7gGchMprEbf-ybneak2tvpq6fKUnOh_DOhs-FUoAkBB_S1DNnigx/w300-h400/20240311_180452.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9dUrmzITzVdfDXbr6-Diyc-01SsT5gmHJn8jU-Qxf0bYp6Dkgrqqok4LTe3WG-CeUZ3dPcOMj7jeHX6tjVqhYE5drAlouzFzHrrM5HWB1AJkRnK2etzg2AG_2hjfuN1g_0KHr1dB06_5ctD-G9a_AZ0ZlH17STZsleExHZZdxw2k70f-e5W65KAL0exIf/s4128/20240312_111544.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9dUrmzITzVdfDXbr6-Diyc-01SsT5gmHJn8jU-Qxf0bYp6Dkgrqqok4LTe3WG-CeUZ3dPcOMj7jeHX6tjVqhYE5drAlouzFzHrrM5HWB1AJkRnK2etzg2AG_2hjfuN1g_0KHr1dB06_5ctD-G9a_AZ0ZlH17STZsleExHZZdxw2k70f-e5W65KAL0exIf/w300-h400/20240312_111544.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv1HX4o0mzNOLwmAENQeikPov66tQdkjBGtfjAyE7WAYdorNV2cbQaP4V5xKKPLZp0N3P5JtugjZXSrXq-rWg1py4oovSUXVDOifEMRt_dh4116YfOlx8b1hcmcBDcA2w1Mqd2cD7kG_QZut5FSN_kgRZpbvk0iE6_9fRUzaJLLg1lDKL10IKpnwMnDhKy/s4128/20240312_131318.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv1HX4o0mzNOLwmAENQeikPov66tQdkjBGtfjAyE7WAYdorNV2cbQaP4V5xKKPLZp0N3P5JtugjZXSrXq-rWg1py4oovSUXVDOifEMRt_dh4116YfOlx8b1hcmcBDcA2w1Mqd2cD7kG_QZut5FSN_kgRZpbvk0iE6_9fRUzaJLLg1lDKL10IKpnwMnDhKy/w300-h400/20240312_131318.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p> </p><p>I think we overspent our time in Colombo. Hubby was sick and I started getting sick on the day of our departure from SL. SL was a good experience. In hindsight I would say my favourite place was Bentota.<br /></p><p><br /><br /><br /></p><p><br /></p><p> </p><p><br /></p>Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-75132224583382690902023-06-20T02:51:00.004-07:002024-03-28T00:44:33.930-07:00Turkey (29 May-8 June 2023)<p>This trip was planned to celebrate a special birthday 🎂. It was going to be a do-it-yourself type of holiday with me booking the hotel through booking.com as well as booking the airport shuttle online. So there was a lot of nervousness before the trip. I was also paranoid about us getting sick, as you feel that if a holiday is booked though an agent there is more assurance or security (I could be wrong), and you can liase with the agent if such an issue occurred.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd9P4t8WNMKsLD98MTN1wFgVEA8Nafm-ceLrV_B5s7GbKUJB268mZzW8jRtEvuw2s51bNCoeUdEIwZNyUZgvNdf5kujHV7R3ns3xnKe6vc9QKi54W7dKsjbber3YuL7zPYi9YwJ4fUFHLypX4uV7_qbNg02e1IBqcuHeg7zJBSc3qjq_Ix-VvJB6HDwvhY/s4128/20230530_094606.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd9P4t8WNMKsLD98MTN1wFgVEA8Nafm-ceLrV_B5s7GbKUJB268mZzW8jRtEvuw2s51bNCoeUdEIwZNyUZgvNdf5kujHV7R3ns3xnKe6vc9QKi54W7dKsjbber3YuL7zPYi9YwJ4fUFHLypX4uV7_qbNg02e1IBqcuHeg7zJBSc3qjq_Ix-VvJB6HDwvhY/w300-h400/20230530_094606.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /> <span><a name='more'></a></span><p></p><p>But everything went smoothly from the start. We flew Emirates. The airport shuttle (<a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/Attraction_Review-g293974-d17422279-Reviews-Tranigo-Istanbul.html" target="_blank">Tranigo</a>) in Istanbul was on time to pick us up. I was worried that we may be late, and that we would not be able to contact them, as we decided that we would not be buying a sim card as it was too expensive. The hotel <a href="https://www.booking.com/hotel/tr/sunshine-taksim-suite.en-gb.html?aid=311984&label=sunshine-taksim-suite-Dq_LUX1piPnWDnXKTC3RqAS624836984822%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-833626950601%3Alp1028720%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9YXdX6HrtnYy-Ml68sH-ljtU&sid=34b65c1ffc1e56a94eb9c96c866c4536&dest_id=-755070;dest_type=city;dist=0;group_adults=2;group_children=0;hapos=1;hpos=1;no_rooms=1;req_adults=2;req_children=0;room1=A%2CA;sb_price_type=total;sr_order=popularity;srepoch=1686558869;srpvid=51cd3c4a18f400e7;type=total;ucfs=1&#tab-main" target="_blank">Sunshine Taksim Suite </a>proved to be the best choice. The hotel proximity to Taksim Square and Istiklal Street as well as the staff were exceptional. Ali and Volkan were the best hosts ever💓💓💓</p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_wy9cl_OY6Pz01V745OEABJGdx4w2srxXnYTjaPu060LMic7GULkmsWBZFtJ_XJepIaq-zkflx68lByKIe--CZAuEY-tuMbKR91qLYmI0G9dFwOHY4vdc7S7yMWaenV_mIjSXPPG_GhN_Sg9cdzWNWzatmx2ABQTXaph1XCC1uovpsnJalUpZY-jmzJub/s4128/20230529_171718.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_wy9cl_OY6Pz01V745OEABJGdx4w2srxXnYTjaPu060LMic7GULkmsWBZFtJ_XJepIaq-zkflx68lByKIe--CZAuEY-tuMbKR91qLYmI0G9dFwOHY4vdc7S7yMWaenV_mIjSXPPG_GhN_Sg9cdzWNWzatmx2ABQTXaph1XCC1uovpsnJalUpZY-jmzJub/w300-h400/20230529_171718.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p>We arrived late at around 2.30 pm so there was not much to do. The next day we arose early and walked down Istiklal Street not expecting anything to find along the road. We were surprised, as we managed to locate the Galata Towers and a few other touristic spots. We also managed to find the subway and looked at the routes and did a bit of planning. And I must say there were surprises around every corner navigating the streets of Istanbul. The people were so friendly, and it was not easy to get lost. We took the subway and the ferries and found places without the assistance of Google maps or data. We took the subway to Halic and walked across the bridge with the intention of going to the Spice Bazaar but ended up going in the opposite direction. We soon asked one of the locals and they pointed us in the right direction. The bazaar and surrounding lanes were packed with people. We managed to sit down and have some kunefe at one of the cafes (I wasn't so impressed with the taste). Someone was even handing out free baklava and I couldn't resist not taking one.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDQ22KEWBZXiB16myov-oc8Q5eGyHvCk-MwjTgI_iRbcBfEfs6Limlpoh0WEDu7OySZoMzUtsHyCa0XRy7plgCrQXloNyzikpqroX-n7gJ4XXfyVZzdEgeq47iOOpRBkcdaoWLlVxckljCuURIooxShBin8sBJIyjdnQq3wNd24V_6VYtIydhZD1yK3rc4/s4128/20230530_141303.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDQ22KEWBZXiB16myov-oc8Q5eGyHvCk-MwjTgI_iRbcBfEfs6Limlpoh0WEDu7OySZoMzUtsHyCa0XRy7plgCrQXloNyzikpqroX-n7gJ4XXfyVZzdEgeq47iOOpRBkcdaoWLlVxckljCuURIooxShBin8sBJIyjdnQq3wNd24V_6VYtIydhZD1yK3rc4/w300-h400/20230530_141303.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p>The next day we decided to explore the Cihangir area. We walked right down that steep road leading to the Galataport. I remember carefully walking down that steep road so as not to slip (and it could have easily happened). We explored a bit of Galataport and luckily there was a subway that could take us back to Taksim. We asked one of the locals and he said we could take the subway line to Kabatas and then take the funicular to Taksim. </p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm0Nk2vtinGMSv_-C2FiXm9h-5T1Uq5dSJhzW17qqhP0vu5yLodKi_DGi7PhOYjEeFtJOxPsuf6M-wvKqcHJ7dcbyV0dUebniX9EYJrITJfGe9z4ZLPJFyeKK40ElfUUVoyqy5BWhB-wm9cdcEFQd3Tzica9gJCZN8x2JAC_UUZffYjOckRhbDlrhYoU-C/s4128/20230603_180536.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm0Nk2vtinGMSv_-C2FiXm9h-5T1Uq5dSJhzW17qqhP0vu5yLodKi_DGi7PhOYjEeFtJOxPsuf6M-wvKqcHJ7dcbyV0dUebniX9EYJrITJfGe9z4ZLPJFyeKK40ElfUUVoyqy5BWhB-wm9cdcEFQd3Tzica9gJCZN8x2JAC_UUZffYjOckRhbDlrhYoU-C/w300-h400/20230603_180536.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>The next day we decided to walk down to Karakoy. Once we reached Karakoy with directions from locals, we ended up walking in the opposite direction (again). We managed to locate the Halic line and took the subway back to the hotel. </p><p>During the next two days we explored the Asian side. First we took the ferry from Karakoy over to Kadikoy and then the next day to Uskudar. In Kadikoy we found a nice shop selling Turkish delights. There was an incident that was so amusing. I had bought cherries and we were waiting at the ferry station and noticed that the cherries were missing. We thought that they had fallen somewhere, and were a bit disappointed that we weren't going to tuck into them once we reached the hotel. Luckily by some miracle hubby noticed the familiar packet on one of the seats. In Uskudar we walked all the way up to the lovely neighbourhood of Kuzguncuk and saw all the colourful houses. We also walked back to town. We came across an open bazaar selling clothes and makeup. See another surprise😊</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb6PAeHD3AnLQvVOFz_L9IAUM3M2FcjflncpmhnZJyacSsPobGRPiwwFNYOnPmnk9zdUBKTQEFSoTOwJvW-6I1L83AWqxz869cVNhh8YsZcK8k88vXKLlc2BOiph51B2Mpi1W0KaFl5LjumSyMq3J_le-sKgjfXFtlFCGFPQiAvy7EJqe9XY_vZPUDe0N6/s4128/20230531_124757.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb6PAeHD3AnLQvVOFz_L9IAUM3M2FcjflncpmhnZJyacSsPobGRPiwwFNYOnPmnk9zdUBKTQEFSoTOwJvW-6I1L83AWqxz869cVNhh8YsZcK8k88vXKLlc2BOiph51B2Mpi1W0KaFl5LjumSyMq3J_le-sKgjfXFtlFCGFPQiAvy7EJqe9XY_vZPUDe0N6/w300-h400/20230531_124757.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQH6gcSeabQSjuAV1k3k8geQmP8aZtt-vMSBZxtlJQfRl1gIh1T_9ZlgHYQHscdL93CaBaTY8InUMPSrHgnL3Vd8HgrYRg0C_LAHArPTyZUmbOtDPaWHzOL3aB2kyL8IT6PCIGuscfWagpdYRuBBkyx1tLLiCVgvH8-ZECcizR8m3Hbe8oaLDFcfoyRljn/s4128/20230531_130323.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3096" data-original-width="4128" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQH6gcSeabQSjuAV1k3k8geQmP8aZtt-vMSBZxtlJQfRl1gIh1T_9ZlgHYQHscdL93CaBaTY8InUMPSrHgnL3Vd8HgrYRg0C_LAHArPTyZUmbOtDPaWHzOL3aB2kyL8IT6PCIGuscfWagpdYRuBBkyx1tLLiCVgvH8-ZECcizR8m3Hbe8oaLDFcfoyRljn/w400-h300/20230531_130323.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJvy-67Dvg6PZXz87HNrG5SwkECgshF72kZlhN0dViTgsX86RszN-vuJqMawl7K6C2MlIVUxXP-DUfeULPXKGTURP5PFb7rJN4CsJ-YUn2AHvFyN2CslPyt8mK_nYX9RZMHMoyCUopB9YY3lMIWSpMooWG1FGBSwNYBGFhcGhkAk2JrEt4iS0YyV5ymYC-/s4128/20230531_130347.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJvy-67Dvg6PZXz87HNrG5SwkECgshF72kZlhN0dViTgsX86RszN-vuJqMawl7K6C2MlIVUxXP-DUfeULPXKGTURP5PFb7rJN4CsJ-YUn2AHvFyN2CslPyt8mK_nYX9RZMHMoyCUopB9YY3lMIWSpMooWG1FGBSwNYBGFhcGhkAk2JrEt4iS0YyV5ymYC-/w300-h400/20230531_130347.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWPKBNZrEOnNETfipnwr9v_YfDX4lZ-lB80KADPi8RcnUmlnCMYu2DXMOXUaItCL0CqLtpv8WVcgd0fz0gqmasQMocZrenhpsqrnuszxqh6ObPDrU1Y5_txDtsv4HIFuHWvLsjqgetyTs6zUKupONbq5-A6-XTgjIvUFcpGL6Ss-JSjozvWh7NApMiQSU_/s4128/20230531_131616.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWPKBNZrEOnNETfipnwr9v_YfDX4lZ-lB80KADPi8RcnUmlnCMYu2DXMOXUaItCL0CqLtpv8WVcgd0fz0gqmasQMocZrenhpsqrnuszxqh6ObPDrU1Y5_txDtsv4HIFuHWvLsjqgetyTs6zUKupONbq5-A6-XTgjIvUFcpGL6Ss-JSjozvWh7NApMiQSU_/w300-h400/20230531_131616.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>On the only Saturday that we stayed here, we decided to go to the Cevahir Mall as the weather didn't look to good. I got a few bargains here, as well as a mirror that I couldn't find back home. But the trains and the subway stations were so crowded😬 It rained heavily the following day. We decided to brave the weather and take the Dolmus to Besiktas. We were a bit worried as we couldn't locate a Dolmus station when we arrived in Besiktas, and wondered how we were going to get back to the hotel. We walked from Besiktas to Galataport in the rain, and had a coffee here and then caught the subway back to the hotel.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXsdd34w1IOqtFSrMudEHdjjU1JCn9ppoDxFSmXMLBrpdMV9wEwXoT3jPtTuYC2RfjogOatMBj35P8S2sCzncG0OSe-Qc8v-Mg-Apfo8tVUScAgVbz1RZtoLTfMc_U2UjMpm736vdKsmFW_nqTCTQZjMkSxwl0GtQdHSYF2ZAHgd0sen9tDrGjkhCloVEc/s4128/20230531_162631.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXsdd34w1IOqtFSrMudEHdjjU1JCn9ppoDxFSmXMLBrpdMV9wEwXoT3jPtTuYC2RfjogOatMBj35P8S2sCzncG0OSe-Qc8v-Mg-Apfo8tVUScAgVbz1RZtoLTfMc_U2UjMpm736vdKsmFW_nqTCTQZjMkSxwl0GtQdHSYF2ZAHgd0sen9tDrGjkhCloVEc/w300-h400/20230531_162631.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGS4IGMWxkP9aeda4mHZJwkHvCoSGwOXSGOK65PZeZt_3qQfUFbfk4KqX2twC15tQWscI0so-xcsPufayPJA9jp7loZZK8lLB2eeI7bow9txXEU1sPKpmzeHEMm4YxOMtnAHaBnXuuWVhNePi-bI_oiltDXM5kVZF2r-UzlWQ7T4gQq_nYpfLgp8N93oZm/s4128/20230604_134522.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGS4IGMWxkP9aeda4mHZJwkHvCoSGwOXSGOK65PZeZt_3qQfUFbfk4KqX2twC15tQWscI0so-xcsPufayPJA9jp7loZZK8lLB2eeI7bow9txXEU1sPKpmzeHEMm4YxOMtnAHaBnXuuWVhNePi-bI_oiltDXM5kVZF2r-UzlWQ7T4gQq_nYpfLgp8N93oZm/w300-h400/20230604_134522.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>On the 5th June we decided to explore the Sultanahmet region. We were excited to see Ali at the Taksim Square train station. We did stay around Sultanahmet when we first visited Turkey way back in 2018. Hubby remembered this region well. To me it looked different and a bit run down. Gulhane Park was so stunning way back then, but now it seemed so run down. We thought we would take the Eminonu subway back to the hotel but didn't realise that it was taking us in a loop, and we decided to jump off at the station where we took this line. We eventually caught the Kabatas subway (I remember it being very crowded) back to the hotel.</p><p>When we got back from Sultanahmet, I decided to ask Volkan from the hotel how to take the ferry to Eyup. The directions that I received via the internet was to take the ferry from Kasimpasa Pier. When we walked down to Karakoy, we realised that we could take the ferry from this harbour. Over the next few days we took the ferry to Eyup (we took the cable car here, such breathtaking views from here) then to Balat and Fenner. After visiting Balat and Fenner we decided to walk past Galataport and take the funicular to Taksim (what a long walk that turned out to be). The previous day we walked from Karakoy up to Taksim, now that was a steep walk 😫</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcSTHfACaGl_YTf4jJn0n9SXxVzrLcMUZmxuFnMvAGm7BQD4ZNilXgf2JNvDRvzRJ3jpoYGSD7jctzHpPg1Xth5-ry3BTPZdb00GqpbbbVVcToTAfkHW1EGv3Kxde-gMW1Dgci5vTEqBSOCw4QNPPbIsuRHpIpV4CCUZndA2qbeaRloPbQIl558sr6hsvF/s4128/20230607_131802.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcSTHfACaGl_YTf4jJn0n9SXxVzrLcMUZmxuFnMvAGm7BQD4ZNilXgf2JNvDRvzRJ3jpoYGSD7jctzHpPg1Xth5-ry3BTPZdb00GqpbbbVVcToTAfkHW1EGv3Kxde-gMW1Dgci5vTEqBSOCw4QNPPbIsuRHpIpV4CCUZndA2qbeaRloPbQIl558sr6hsvF/w300-h400/20230607_131802.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3J140RstIMG6dRr5irRjsoOhXOnHL9LEMJDHRugjfeWjpdmP3C9tOlrD_d5WKntccv1Bob7NNq5CXAwhwFK0cd2lvTJJEowzpbjq1rmtDTb2j9oo0xxd9XbWsr_8dkmBnmx8U-lPumuY4TsCW3Aert3l8l6snQK1LvtvxM0_FmK4o5OqR-Pt160LlQfJ3/s4128/20230607_133055.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3J140RstIMG6dRr5irRjsoOhXOnHL9LEMJDHRugjfeWjpdmP3C9tOlrD_d5WKntccv1Bob7NNq5CXAwhwFK0cd2lvTJJEowzpbjq1rmtDTb2j9oo0xxd9XbWsr_8dkmBnmx8U-lPumuY4TsCW3Aert3l8l6snQK1LvtvxM0_FmK4o5OqR-Pt160LlQfJ3/w300-h400/20230607_133055.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinn7_Y95_A4wbD1MCuoruM-L5mvMDr9M8P66Rl7tXh9s9V1uMErHjI-LGkdJvAEMojthO1swmT_0m_w0NoDvuMi_Hyc0yvYmSHRlsAwmMdIJOTVPhc0MaMiKoXa-BZYwwJ9wXyEdpN8oyGm9HigQWyrYdaZp2QPlAqjOKj68kHq4J589Vrlo_qRM7X6ya-/s4128/20230607_133115.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinn7_Y95_A4wbD1MCuoruM-L5mvMDr9M8P66Rl7tXh9s9V1uMErHjI-LGkdJvAEMojthO1swmT_0m_w0NoDvuMi_Hyc0yvYmSHRlsAwmMdIJOTVPhc0MaMiKoXa-BZYwwJ9wXyEdpN8oyGm9HigQWyrYdaZp2QPlAqjOKj68kHq4J589Vrlo_qRM7X6ya-/w300-h400/20230607_133115.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRNELoKRFn5s4thBlEThPmafxyDWSqMspSxxiZPSAP_c5b94EKK8Q0WJ_xQpLTXK4FELZ29Z3oxPChmWT9iXkh_vYcq_HloOWmJJoGP79gdUSoKnN9wbWVlSMgwapm5E75NQtBp9sMbz_uBioQW-G-TDd2re5zM8tWiEZsCU90XebkkDFuTJcyIlM9ggQi/s4128/20230607_133135.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRNELoKRFn5s4thBlEThPmafxyDWSqMspSxxiZPSAP_c5b94EKK8Q0WJ_xQpLTXK4FELZ29Z3oxPChmWT9iXkh_vYcq_HloOWmJJoGP79gdUSoKnN9wbWVlSMgwapm5E75NQtBp9sMbz_uBioQW-G-TDd2re5zM8tWiEZsCU90XebkkDFuTJcyIlM9ggQi/w300-h400/20230607_133135.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwk6Xg8Uzc6cOSEgxNGkiciZ3Q4H1m0coCGLutEtbBpC_vYqVq0KJ9Y-1MoNQIncnOaCNgGy9nit6S2oEdBRLRY6ctia-HNC1YqCgr_9IccJzsi5BFi5_Aabra9KHkpcHvC5m7aG_hmJ3zgr2ZV1ueT5_pr3H0L9HMD6rPdNS98jscLyF8wFp2SxNCqOCM/s4128/20230607_133204.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwk6Xg8Uzc6cOSEgxNGkiciZ3Q4H1m0coCGLutEtbBpC_vYqVq0KJ9Y-1MoNQIncnOaCNgGy9nit6S2oEdBRLRY6ctia-HNC1YqCgr_9IccJzsi5BFi5_Aabra9KHkpcHvC5m7aG_hmJ3zgr2ZV1ueT5_pr3H0L9HMD6rPdNS98jscLyF8wFp2SxNCqOCM/w300-h400/20230607_133204.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><br /> <p></p><p>For our breakfast we used to have the rolls with butter and doritos bought from the local supermarket (and the cheese that we brought from home, such cheapskates!). For lunch we used to grab whatever we could find along the way. In Uskudar we had a nice doner meal at a cafe and in Fenner we had the cheese pancakes and mantie. We even had a stuffed simit (I think that happened on the second day, in Taksim). For supper we used to buy chicken doners and have it in Gezi park. The ones from Haci Kebap near Taksim (can't remember the exact name) were the best. We also had the stuffed potatoes in Istiklal Street (I wasn't too impressed😞)</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqd4gy_wvkhiDA3VfEkVH6xSOZaxGPkllyCARfVWRQoLRSouecGFAq_7tdUDxubEl2j5iKT8Gb-8y8qLIi6GKEze7B-dQWIYu3XvczEpmdJz7ucvTVUcCYVPwagtRTvF1aEQJK6mBt7omo-HQuTaj2BnBGB-qaD811zuX1EjRuO8jmTEUcOqSUiqmT7pkC/s4128/20230603_183008.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3096" data-original-width="4128" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqd4gy_wvkhiDA3VfEkVH6xSOZaxGPkllyCARfVWRQoLRSouecGFAq_7tdUDxubEl2j5iKT8Gb-8y8qLIi6GKEze7B-dQWIYu3XvczEpmdJz7ucvTVUcCYVPwagtRTvF1aEQJK6mBt7omo-HQuTaj2BnBGB-qaD811zuX1EjRuO8jmTEUcOqSUiqmT7pkC/w400-h300/20230603_183008.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p style="margin-left: 80px; text-align: left;"></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9BT6IK5uO1bwjwrLFSiY8CtrkGpcx7poZxYGkgPIbZ_HLSu-vMipwYa6TqtYAuKxrzQY4EWhtv6oliQncLllyoTluQhWp08BWPTuCylV5H04CQuf5gD3pwekYHdqHz2DvoBbu8UzMA7Dft20vMjtkeQ6JP4_YTCPS9288aFBIfrDyXDKtRt1mTOsgQWT0/s4128/20230603_183143.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3096" data-original-width="4128" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9BT6IK5uO1bwjwrLFSiY8CtrkGpcx7poZxYGkgPIbZ_HLSu-vMipwYa6TqtYAuKxrzQY4EWhtv6oliQncLllyoTluQhWp08BWPTuCylV5H04CQuf5gD3pwekYHdqHz2DvoBbu8UzMA7Dft20vMjtkeQ6JP4_YTCPS9288aFBIfrDyXDKtRt1mTOsgQWT0/w400-h300/20230603_183143.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCPG_tmUfySY-hMNVAT0w_H2g9xMLDYUhBwe1tgvxw8y2iqJDh2hoY-IXZC1o-6l0m0WfkeSQSU3Nw7CLa4SKSbdbqkqMjZ3VidENcb1TayqlFzMTgfmOJJlCLmBQTwHycIjhvIqmSCr1DW_j6mxO5ahqHDwc8JcAdiT-Y1rjkG5ybOv-SkS2vgUo6PmZ6/s4128/20230603_183431.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3096" data-original-width="4128" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCPG_tmUfySY-hMNVAT0w_H2g9xMLDYUhBwe1tgvxw8y2iqJDh2hoY-IXZC1o-6l0m0WfkeSQSU3Nw7CLa4SKSbdbqkqMjZ3VidENcb1TayqlFzMTgfmOJJlCLmBQTwHycIjhvIqmSCr1DW_j6mxO5ahqHDwc8JcAdiT-Y1rjkG5ybOv-SkS2vgUo6PmZ6/w400-h300/20230603_183431.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p>On the last day we decided to stay in the hotel and pack. We left the hotel around 12pm. Ali helped us with our bags to the Havaist bus station. We felt sad leaving. The trip was so memorable and will always be close to my heart 💓.<br /></p><p> </p><p><br /></p><p> </p><p><br /></p><p> </p><p><br /></p><br /><br /><br />Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-83865063931032271432023-01-11T04:06:00.031-08:002023-10-24T23:56:16.034-07:00Cape Town (16-30 December 2022)<p>The hubby and I decided to do a road trip to Cape Town with a friend. We were fortunate in that he was going to drive us all the way there. We were going to do a 1 night stopover in Colesberg, then a 9 night stay in Cape Town, and finally a 2 night stay in Riebeeck Kasteel. The hubby and I always travel together, and there were some apprehensions about travelling with a friend. But as you will read on, the trip proved most memorable.</p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI53YUkguNxjD4LM1Nlddwp77uX91CDjGn1DVyvJsy6UtkCDCFnkMdpWUBSroFiUu1OBS6gFnAXvbegJJUfnN1fwDxcdS00Q_Rw8d-N05l5mbfTbW5dGZltlJEO5ySxq1nQ6hnvcET1RP2etjbisYgWKDBBulhk-i3Rg5Hq-MmqwNs3Ul2OCRgdjeUxQ/s4128/CT1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI53YUkguNxjD4LM1Nlddwp77uX91CDjGn1DVyvJsy6UtkCDCFnkMdpWUBSroFiUu1OBS6gFnAXvbegJJUfnN1fwDxcdS00Q_Rw8d-N05l5mbfTbW5dGZltlJEO5ySxq1nQ6hnvcET1RP2etjbisYgWKDBBulhk-i3Rg5Hq-MmqwNs3Ul2OCRgdjeUxQ/w300-h400/CT1.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from apartment <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p></p> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC0uNHWVr4aHOolEN3CQOP3mSliDhmlU1RqSu7AR0sklje5zuOYnM_yolmB8s-ouN9yB-q8xsfFx_WwBbjkUptg6sYoqlGAKvRgwsxtcUVGbhUW_tahskc5rQWRPBIcg-KpG2FH6KfjHneP4Fx6VMcB2TNoGNg-DoznhfU8OhK1x-42kye7sX39B7SRA/s4128/20221218_204636.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC0uNHWVr4aHOolEN3CQOP3mSliDhmlU1RqSu7AR0sklje5zuOYnM_yolmB8s-ouN9yB-q8xsfFx_WwBbjkUptg6sYoqlGAKvRgwsxtcUVGbhUW_tahskc5rQWRPBIcg-KpG2FH6KfjHneP4Fx6VMcB2TNoGNg-DoznhfU8OhK1x-42kye7sX39B7SRA/w300-h400/20221218_204636.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">will miss the sunset</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span><a name='more'></a></span><p></p><p>As is with a long road trip, our baggage was going to include a lot of padkos, and spices for our anticipated cookout dinners (which never materialised as we ate out most of the times). We arose early (around 2am) on the day of our departure, as we wanted to beat the holiday traffic. We left our homes at 4am. I remember it was a misty and slightly warm morning. We stopped for a cuppa and a leg-break along the way. It was so exciting to see fellow travellers at our stops heading off to who knows where. One could feel the holiday spirit. We arrived in Bloemfontein just before 10am, and had breakfast at the Mimosa Mall. We decided to stop by the impressive Gariep Dam on our way to Colesberg. We stayed at <a href="https://www.afristay.com/p/31259?gclid=CjwKCAiA2fmdBhBpEiwA4CcHzXxdBlXjVAfnzGHZgy7t9HIZX_NSqQHCsTGdJOoRZ2BapOIbb9TXkRoCRpsQAvD_BwE" target="_blank">Brand Gastehuis</a>, as well as on our return trip back home, and it was good value for money. Colesberg is a quaint one street town with a beautiful church at its epicentre. The town was buzzing with travellers, but on our return trip on the 28th this was not so evident. We had supper at <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/Restaurant_Review-g1379192-d12439104-Reviews-Inni_Kraal_Restaurant-Colesberg_Northern_Cape.html" target="_blank">Inni Kraal</a> where the food was super delicious.</p><p>We arose early again for our departure from Colesberg to Cape Town. We had to scrummage around for our stuff in the dark, as there was loadshedding happening in Colesberg at this time. We stopped over for breakfast in Beaufort West at a place called <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/Restaurant_Review-g312655-d13273491-Reviews-Donkin_Deli-Beaufort_West_Western_Cape.html" target="_blank">Donkin Deli</a>. The drive to Cape Town was amazing, the stunning views, the wide open spaces and low hanging clouds, and the mountainous areas were just so breathtaking. We live in such a beautiful country!</p><p></p><p></p><p>We arrived to a sunny but not hot Cape Town. The apartment we stayed in (<a href="https://planetofhotels.com/en/south-africa/cape-town/1204-quayside" target="_blank">1204 Quayside Suites</a>) was clean and spacious and had stunning views of Table Mountain, especially at sunset. We were very fortunate in that our friend did not enjoy sitting around in the apartment. He was familiar with Cape Town and surrounds, having travelled there numerous times on business. He drove us to Bloubergstrand, Franschoek, Stellenbosch, and Hermanus (which was very arty but not vibey). We stopped by at Hout Bay, visited Muizenberg, with its colourful beach huts and beautiful beaches, and drove past Camps Bay, Clifton Beach and Kalk Bay. We also drove to Signal Hill to watch the sunset and stunning views of Cape Town at night. The only problem was that our visit occurred during peak season and the traffic up the narrow road leading to the hill was horrendous. Try doing a 3 point turn on this hill with your 4by4 😧. Luckily we parked towards the bottom of the hill. On our return back to the apartment we drove past the stunning Christmas lights display along Adderley Street. We also did lots of walking around the V & A Waterfront and Sea Point area as well as Long and Short Street, the area around St Georges Cathedral, as well as the beautiful Company Gardens. We also visited Bo Kaap and the Woodstock Brewery.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYPugypKdcPW0Z_N_ouRpQk7aDekfAlvEg-KaIyqfsTvOpkGOwYbvroaBLh92hVYaNxrhci-XCy-j8u8BqX3CXBdQ8u_T4IglUOojqaN-lPafq1ZVK1aey0IvZL3dan1t9nR4fDq5wox4LnWUdGV0vkjtKyAEEgQWlGW3D8_aZsVrfVuX1zyQDJ4Adtg/s4128/20221221_111231.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3096" data-original-width="4128" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYPugypKdcPW0Z_N_ouRpQk7aDekfAlvEg-KaIyqfsTvOpkGOwYbvroaBLh92hVYaNxrhci-XCy-j8u8BqX3CXBdQ8u_T4IglUOojqaN-lPafq1ZVK1aey0IvZL3dan1t9nR4fDq5wox4LnWUdGV0vkjtKyAEEgQWlGW3D8_aZsVrfVuX1zyQDJ4Adtg/w400-h300/20221221_111231.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-mBQ9hwtEcyQKKuqj1xaPYYgQMN1USCECy8CdQR4Y_Vow0p9ADcgBmAWznpaSAWOIA0PtEwGGmyGdVDOTkBHZ2B-7auc4AQXHhLP8Liz5s_2TQ1fJji8knxM7xVPEMDDgPmJM1YlM-sggY5vCaEytgaGVKf7zWYb47lMSvrOEdn0zWDNBzbK1Umdl4A/s4128/20221217_065657.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3096" data-original-width="4128" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-mBQ9hwtEcyQKKuqj1xaPYYgQMN1USCECy8CdQR4Y_Vow0p9ADcgBmAWznpaSAWOIA0PtEwGGmyGdVDOTkBHZ2B-7auc4AQXHhLP8Liz5s_2TQ1fJji8knxM7xVPEMDDgPmJM1YlM-sggY5vCaEytgaGVKf7zWYb47lMSvrOEdn0zWDNBzbK1Umdl4A/w400-h300/20221217_065657.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">beautiful views<br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVq34gWg2UoulUy6_nL9E7oHG5l0l2eQQxu9suDnLbEDKzpCTCs28IfRIf4GanBMV3vMm3UGjBKvvl00OaSVIdcwPwDSBLWx8oh2ougEJmux4ylW-BfwZ5kJqpoNbeKBj4oUsrX0ewjtkylrF6JC6dycKQirBj1d2BtaxiWl0-zbedH5HK6LQCZVDoow/s4128/20221224_082648.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3096" data-original-width="4128" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVq34gWg2UoulUy6_nL9E7oHG5l0l2eQQxu9suDnLbEDKzpCTCs28IfRIf4GanBMV3vMm3UGjBKvvl00OaSVIdcwPwDSBLWx8oh2ougEJmux4ylW-BfwZ5kJqpoNbeKBj4oUsrX0ewjtkylrF6JC6dycKQirBj1d2BtaxiWl0-zbedH5HK6LQCZVDoow/w400-h300/20221224_082648.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the iconic V & A</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCrc-E0mfb2wx6g8Z-TspipPjuivR5SJBvPX-ADcjqd0J-sychMvrhKxR3RXDuOFIdyT1DrhNmDeFe5LtZko8a4nJaj4JjHAeAHXMcqETQ2VpKOLSWRtbIEUJZF7b6OXiyUKOqWzv2lv3sFkWPnHdfTLzBjLihkFdYOTnRhfxOChSel4UkFu9925d0ig/s4128/20221218_101916.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCrc-E0mfb2wx6g8Z-TspipPjuivR5SJBvPX-ADcjqd0J-sychMvrhKxR3RXDuOFIdyT1DrhNmDeFe5LtZko8a4nJaj4JjHAeAHXMcqETQ2VpKOLSWRtbIEUJZF7b6OXiyUKOqWzv2lv3sFkWPnHdfTLzBjLihkFdYOTnRhfxOChSel4UkFu9925d0ig/w300-h400/20221218_101916.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">stunning Christmas decor at the V& A</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4dwfKFFLR6znRY_eqcz6LckTLsIrFVIvxRBxfLS7_RTSCbiKuQuq8TKcKieVt37W0KzGS5h2mgLvBtwgnpmhKU7MYSowNl0y9yDVsrF26a4QMPaMx_JYYcpDEEr6F8ED_A4qYGOXjMI_ECyweboCLV4nK45o96UvxYBAYMGzvaCyza_csOzcXSnYX_Q/s4128/20221222_100800.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4dwfKFFLR6znRY_eqcz6LckTLsIrFVIvxRBxfLS7_RTSCbiKuQuq8TKcKieVt37W0KzGS5h2mgLvBtwgnpmhKU7MYSowNl0y9yDVsrF26a4QMPaMx_JYYcpDEEr6F8ED_A4qYGOXjMI_ECyweboCLV4nK45o96UvxYBAYMGzvaCyza_csOzcXSnYX_Q/w300-h400/20221222_100800.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bo Kaap<br /><br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs5YolyV3xHRgQlLerjXkyDHKcbuKn3U7kEprQWNu5UMUXGleGUiplQvkN6Q6ejXNN69BS8viR1Oi40Ju3mJnx70zYQ9xj1VoNSRG7ETLSG8Uu0cP5PNBkqWUZq0VQAGT8v3do71iZSqjFMbpHa6bGodhF9ullAQykFHO7-fe8zP6ePY9vtYfXzZpvQw/s4128/20221220_120338.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3096" data-original-width="4128" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs5YolyV3xHRgQlLerjXkyDHKcbuKn3U7kEprQWNu5UMUXGleGUiplQvkN6Q6ejXNN69BS8viR1Oi40Ju3mJnx70zYQ9xj1VoNSRG7ETLSG8Uu0cP5PNBkqWUZq0VQAGT8v3do71iZSqjFMbpHa6bGodhF9ullAQykFHO7-fe8zP6ePY9vtYfXzZpvQw/w400-h300/20221220_120338.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">those beautiful Cape Dutch houses (Franschoek)<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3EzK_yl0e5adf6dVB6ZpEYOD0Js6-2N99MOnADohWXdkp9f6lPg5oGvsUjJHZAR-veFzOp8KRReBkMjYEcrwm2YrA0dHHcMIfoPoHf2F1bjsJBIWV_Ohwbd6ZmVGZ8Skyt_JTNbAHxbj-5v3k2sOA-EwTzWylenVTc-Ap1Mj9igzCIgb9Hbxb3j4MLA/s4128/20221220_120352.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3EzK_yl0e5adf6dVB6ZpEYOD0Js6-2N99MOnADohWXdkp9f6lPg5oGvsUjJHZAR-veFzOp8KRReBkMjYEcrwm2YrA0dHHcMIfoPoHf2F1bjsJBIWV_Ohwbd6ZmVGZ8Skyt_JTNbAHxbj-5v3k2sOA-EwTzWylenVTc-Ap1Mj9igzCIgb9Hbxb3j4MLA/w300-h400/20221220_120352.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">and gardens (Franschoek)<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDuLcq2jK4J--evUmD2ZKA1nFtNseJysh6SHK_Cjre7S22iir8Ls1BZHeODzqSBg9LFSeR5urCW1dvcRAqR5YbfuFX4eZAXVIAH1K_sM8IBSmOugInNR_sNVquE21cKJ-L_WYgNVSKRqcED87b29xYvZpZvKALLUa5V5HOccBfh12GadvOrKFa0Nw6ig/s4128/20221223_122850.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3096" data-original-width="4128" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDuLcq2jK4J--evUmD2ZKA1nFtNseJysh6SHK_Cjre7S22iir8Ls1BZHeODzqSBg9LFSeR5urCW1dvcRAqR5YbfuFX4eZAXVIAH1K_sM8IBSmOugInNR_sNVquE21cKJ-L_WYgNVSKRqcED87b29xYvZpZvKALLUa5V5HOccBfh12GadvOrKFa0Nw6ig/w400-h368/20221223_122850.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hermanus looked different </td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBXIGtZAp7F24Ya-CvUtQubgKP2ZnqCckUBZbcQpXRUw0t5c9FzQpF4WLrWeE-WRM7sjRdUCR_VIYeXxR8ZfFQi1QbGfW4mUOuwS-eTA_8xdVbx2Kgbna9DFunW5iPFFwnFU5ufMFGXfwxwING3vKce1jVB2yPg6pK9JTUFiz6xJw7FqILeXq39NXAxA/s4128/20221223_130235.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3096" data-original-width="4128" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBXIGtZAp7F24Ya-CvUtQubgKP2ZnqCckUBZbcQpXRUw0t5c9FzQpF4WLrWeE-WRM7sjRdUCR_VIYeXxR8ZfFQi1QbGfW4mUOuwS-eTA_8xdVbx2Kgbna9DFunW5iPFFwnFU5ufMFGXfwxwING3vKce1jVB2yPg6pK9JTUFiz6xJw7FqILeXq39NXAxA/w400-h300/20221223_130235.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">somewhere in Hermanus</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKuQ8XPB624qa1cWR4YavCxNe9Q_rVEVNuMDguQztJaASLPl1_Mc96nmQgAdA5en5qeWng0AL4Vd2V0p2o1iAi0V3sQW31QaoKA1mptu9Y2CShv77409ze_hz7tJbT96IUuyA5YLZ4_v-OJmhAVPqFaO64LovNTXeDE8oxZmsUKOAZUMuBWCmM2FGsag/s4128/20221226_115030.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3096" data-original-width="4128" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKuQ8XPB624qa1cWR4YavCxNe9Q_rVEVNuMDguQztJaASLPl1_Mc96nmQgAdA5en5qeWng0AL4Vd2V0p2o1iAi0V3sQW31QaoKA1mptu9Y2CShv77409ze_hz7tJbT96IUuyA5YLZ4_v-OJmhAVPqFaO64LovNTXeDE8oxZmsUKOAZUMuBWCmM2FGsag/w400-h300/20221226_115030.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Die Strandloper</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi18iv_SmSi4BVNFd1j86tAie9rsy7BL4Sli2tnYeBpW_hTm9X4mQZrKdBHGfazYjb0nAgOIgggYkE_ecH6NNTlZr0XNJ0FwQgzFhU4a414_rqr4BA1pPgeYO3OGMLknSaEMub-wx9obNPYEuXLc2wJrEHq2ST22jooenNQm_I2mrUtHLD01hwvOgH0Qw/s4128/20221227_071738.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; 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margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4128" data-original-width="3096" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgC19YU-CcH8QkVqGx7SProgJONVpPdhnHnnl-gWfWwvN8pNcGYRNx_xc60187R2zlH2XPRiutyO39tKKRaRokSUO_S5DUwghmCVwuWruJUhzKDf5RIRb3oTNH6X3Tyro2cAOfHztIAG0Vo4Aqy4_BuOGUjHQAo386IrI3uVq2eJy98CviKCFC_N7RoQ/w300-h400/20221227_122459.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Noisy Oyster</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>We ate at these restaurants: </p><p><a href="https://www.dining-out.co.za/md-menu/Blowfish-Restaurant/2514" target="_blank">Blowfish</a> in Bloubergstrand (setting was beautiful with view of windsurfers, but food wasn't) </p><p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/easternfoodbazaarct/" target="_blank">Eastern Food Bazaar</a> (in Cape Town, portions were huge and the place was always very busy)</p><p><a href="https://www.tokara.com/tokara-wine-estate/delicatessen/" target="_blank">Tokara Delicatessen</a> (in Stellenbosch, breakfast was pricey but bacon and eggs were not up to standard)</p><p><a href="https://www.spiceroute.co.za/#la-grapperia-pizza-tappas" target="_blank">La Grapperia</a> (along the Spice Route in Paarl, we had a late lunch and there were some very drunk revellers in the next table)</p><p><a href="https://www.kloofstreethouse.co.za/" target="_blank">Kloof Street House</a> (in Cape Town, venue was vibey and ambience was top notch, food wasn't though, but if you want to see good looking and and well-dressed folk, then this is the place to be) </p><p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/capetownsbestcafe/" target="_blank">Liquorice and Lime</a> (in Cape Town, I had the stuffed croissant which was ordinarily tasting)</p><p><a href="https://www.javabistro.net/" target="_blank">Java Bistro</a> (Stellenbosch)</p><p>We made last minute reservations for Christmas lunch at La Parada (on Bree Street). When we arrived at the restaurant we switched from the Christmas to the a la carte menu. The aioli sauce and churros were delicious.</p><p>We left for Langebaan on the 26th. We did lunch at <a href="https://strandloper.com/" target="_blank">Die Strandloper</a>. The baked bread was delicious so was the snoek. We drove to Riebeeck Kasteel and stayed at the <a href="https://riebeekkasteel.co.za/" target="_blank">Red Tin Roof</a>. This manor house is beautifully decorated and has a stunning garden. Because it is an old house it needs some repair. make sure you wear insect repellant as there's lots of mozzies here. Riebeeck Kasteel is a quiet little laid-back town. We spent 2 nights here, wish we had more time to explore. Breakfast was very good. From Riebeeck Kasteel we drove out to Paternoster with its white houses and sandy beaches. Paternoster is a bit overrated, maybe if we had more time to explore, we would have enjoyed it more. We had lunch at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/noisyoysterpaternoster/" target="_blank">Noisy Oyster.</a> We had supper at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/laparrillariebeek/" target="_blank">La Parilla</a> (tasty food and served with big portions).</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Alas, our holiday was soon coming to an end. The last 3 remaining days of our trip went by so quickly, and we were in a different town on each of those days. We left Riebeeck Kasteel for Colesberg. We had lunch at <a href="https://www.eatout.co.za/venue/karushi/" target="_blank">Karushi</a> in Beaufort West. We were disappointed as service was severely lacking here. Colesberg was lacking that vibe that we initially experienced when we arrived here on the 16th. We had lunch at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pub.restuarant/" target="_blank">Allards Bistro and Pizzeria.</a> Don't be put off by the rustic nature of this eating house as the food was good. From Colesberg we drove to Clarens and stayed at the <a href="https://www.booking.com/hotel/za/protea-clarens.en-gb.html?aid=303948&label=clarens-56j%2AyjAqQhpBIsEs_oqOWAS540213441800%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atiaud-297601666475%3Akwd-25486666785%3Alp1028720%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9Yf5EcukO1MOGLSSAuId8ToA&sid=01e0c623dd44af7c62bffb995baf861c" target="_blank">Protea Hotel</a>. The views to and from Clarens were simply stunning with those majestic mountains and greenery. We ate at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thesquare.clarens/" target="_blank">The Square</a> and <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/Restaurant_Review-g734479-d4414276-Reviews-Clarens_Brewery-Clarens_Free_State.html" target="_blank">Brew Pub</a>. Wish we had more time to explore the back streets of Clarens. <br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><br /><br />Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-22857076555920806652020-03-06T04:12:00.005-08:002024-01-04T03:34:07.888-08:00Travelling in the time of coronavirus to Sri Lanka (March 2020)<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Just when we thought terrorism and natural disasters were the only threats preventing us from travelling abroad, here comes another, in the form of coronavirus. South Africa and Sri Lanka (as of 9th March) are not in the grips of the coronavirus scare, but as we come closer to departing for our trip to Sri Lanka, panic sets in. </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">What if we come into contact with passengers who are infected.</span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"> How safe can we be on the planes or airports without being infected. Should we postpone our journey. What if either one of us are infected in Sri Lanka. </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">What if we return to work, and then realise that we are infected</span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">. </span>These are the questions that are at the back of our minds. Two days before we leave I am in a deep dilemma. To add to this, the day before we leave, one of the owners in our complex had a break in, in broad daylight. Is this a bad omen for us. What if our house gets broken into while we are away. We managed to pack our bags, with all these thoughts hanging over our heads. The day finally arrived, We secured our home as best we could, and set on our journey.</span><br />
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<a name='more'></a><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">King Shaka was bustling with Italian tourists (Italy had it worst with COVID-19). We were so afraid to get close to any of them. A cough or a sneeze set alarm bells. </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We could not avoid standing or even worse sitting next to an infected person on the plane. </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We were surprised to find our Emirates plane half empty. Even Dubai airport felt so deserted. We were bumped up to business class from Dubai to Sri Lanka. This really set the tone for the trip.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Bumped up to business</span></div>
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Hotel in Negombo</div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We were greeted at </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Bandaranaike International Airport by the most amazing driver, Hiran. It was about a 40 minutes drive to Negombo. We were in time to view the most magnificent sunset. We stayed at the <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/Hotel_Review-g297897-d3207997-Reviews-Amagi_Aria-Negombo_Western_Province.html" target="_blank">Amagi Aria</a> hotel for one night. This hotel is situated along the Negombo Lagoon. The rooms were not well lit, and we were happy to leave the next day. The dinner and breakfast was excellent. </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We set off on a 5 hour road trip to Dambulla. Our first stop was the local fish market, where we saw cut shark and tuna on display. Our road trip was a journey through captivating villages and towns, and stunning scenery.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We visited the Dambulla cave temples in the midday heat. Climbing up the stairs proved so torturous. I had to rest for about 5 minutes, and thought I will never make it to the top, but I eventually did. We were going to do the Sigiriya Rock the next day, and I am so glad we started this journey early in the morning. I remember dreaming about climbing this rock, and whether I was going to make it or not. It wasn't as treacherous as I thought, as you could rest along the way. And there weren't many tourists because of COVID-19, so one could take ones time going up the narrow stairs without feeling pressured. But we did feel it in our calves in the next couple of days. We spent two nights in the stunningly beautiful <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/Hotel_Review-g304133-d477912-Reviews-Amaya_Lake-Dambulla_Central_Province.html" target="_blank">Amaya Lake</a> hotel, </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">which consists of chalet type suites</span>, and is surrounded by a lake, and beautiful greenery. We were forced to have dinner here, which was not so good. Breakfast was ok. In the evenings we took a walk through the lush tropical gardens and sat by the lake. The evening drinks at the hotel pub were very memorable, as it had a good atmosphere. The mornings were filled with the sound of bird life.</span><br />
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Dambulla cave temple</div>
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Amaya Lake</div>
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Stuning décor at Amaya Lake</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sigiriya Rock</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Climbed up the 1200 steps</td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">W</span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">e also did a village tour, which included a tuk-tuk ride, a catamaran ride and a bullock ride. We had a meal of coconut roti and coconut sambal cooked by a lady in the village. This was a simple meal yet so tasty. The next morning before we set off for a 3 hour ride to Kandy we visited the wholesale vegetable market. On the way to Kandy we stopped for a tour of a spice garden in Matale.</span><br />
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Taking a catamaran down the lake</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 80%; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;">Clean veg market in Dambulla</td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Kandy was hot and felt claustrophobic. Our hotel, </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/Hotel_Review-g12220047-d1594031-Reviews-Randholee_Resort_Spa-Heerassagala_Kandy_Kandy_District_Central_Province.html" target="_blank">Randholee Resort & Spa</a> was situated on a hill. Our room was big, and we had a good view, but the bathroom did not look very clean. At around 2.am we were awoken by loud music and chatter. Someone also rung our bell at 3.am. We complained to the desk and were told that a group of youngsters had arrived from Colombo. The next morning at breakfast, we saw who the culprits were, and they were also making a racket at breakfast. We got a call from reception at around 12pm, just before we could leave for a city tour, and were told that we could be upgraded without any cost to us. This was music to our ears. Our new suite was almost the size of our house, and was super luxurious. But alas, we only spent a night here. The TV was not working though, but the hotel staff gladly let hubby use the other suite to watch the news. They were such an obliging bunch. The dinner here that we had for two nights were the tastiest foods we had eaten in Sri Lanka. For lunch we had a tasty dosa at <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/ShowUserReviews-g304138-d3911671-r290411257-Balaji_Dosai-Kandy_Kandy_District_Central_Province.html" target="_blank">Balaji Dosai</a> on recommendation from our driver. We also visited the Temple of the Tooth, which was a bit of a let down. We had front seats to a spectacular Kandyan dance performance.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luxurious suite at Randholee Resort & Spa</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ruj28A4g0sw/XnmzkZXTlwI/AAAAAAAAEaI/de2a87ZEj2ksqybAL1OVyU9CAHYErjcdQCEwYBhgL/s1600/20200314_132540.jpg" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #0066cc; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ruj28A4g0sw/XnmzkZXTlwI/AAAAAAAAEaI/de2a87ZEj2ksqybAL1OVyU9CAHYErjcdQCEwYBhgL/s640/20200314_132540.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dosa at Balaji Dosai</td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The next morning we set off for a 5 hour journey to Nuwara Eliya. We visited the Hanuman temple in Ramboda. The scenery from Kandy to Ella was nothing short of spectacular, as we passed through stunning tea plantations. Nuwara Eliya is a small town with a British feel to it, and with nothing much to do. We were glad we did not stay here, as when we were planning our trip to Sri Lanka, we were contemplating whether we should stay here or in Ella. We're glad we chose the latter. </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"></span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"></span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We were surprised to find that Ella was a predominantly backpacker town and full of European backpackers. There were so many home-stays and lodges in that one busy main street. We were booked in to stay at the <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/Hotel_Review-g616035-d5509764-Reviews-Ella_Gap_Hotel-Ella_Uva_Province.html" target="_blank">Oak Ray Ella Gap</a> hotel. Our room overlooked a dump, and there was damp on the room walls. We were not too happy and couldn't imagine staying in this room for three nights. It also did not have a safe and mini-bar fridge. We complained to reception and fortunately they found a better room for us, and put in a safe and mini-bar fridge. The one advantage of this hotel was that it was centrally located, and close to shops and restaurants. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We were lucky to have our rooms changed in the two instances, and this can only be attributed to the fact that people were limiting their travel as a result of COVID-19. We visited the
</span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Ravana Water falls the next day. And the following day we visited the </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Nine Arches Bridge. We were supposed to visit Lipton's Seat in Haputale, which was an hour's drive from Ella, but this was closed to tourists (this was such a huge disappointment</span> <span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">as I was looking forward to this). The next day we climbed up Little Adam's Peak. We were followed by a friendly dog up to the top, But it got chased away by another dog. The views from here were stunning. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delicious kottu roti</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nine Arches Bridge</td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Ella was becoming deserted as the days went by. Sri Lanka was on a lockdown from 16th March. Restaurants and tourist hotspots were closing. After climbing the peak, we decided to go to a restaurant to have a drink. That evening we were supposed to have dinner at a recommended eatery, the <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/Restaurant_Review-g616035-d9813968-Reviews-Matey_Hut-Ella_Uva_Province.html" target="_blank">Matey Hut</a>, and were so looking forward to this. At around 4pm we decided to go back to the hotel for a toilet break. Luckily we did, as on the way we were met by our driver who followed us to the hotel. Our driver informed us that the Colombo airport was threatening to close, and we needed to be in Colombo in case this happened. We had to pack quickly. We decided to pack as if we were going to the airport. </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"> Thank goodness we did, as on the way to Colombo, our travel agent called us to say that she was booking us on a flight back home at 3.30am. We drove through the winding roads in the pouring rain, and reached the airport around 11pm (a total of 6 hours driving). We stopped on the way to have supper. We bought some tea at this restaurant, as we had not purchased anything for home. We were supposed to have spent one more night in Ella, and two nights in Colombo and were supposed to do our shopping in Colombo.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We showed our new flight ticket that we had on my phone to the security. Colombo airport was packed.</span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span>There were no signs, and no one telling us where to go. Passengers were on standby and were seated or sleeping on the floor. We had to wait for an hour and a half before we had our turn at the airlines desk. </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">This flight to Dubai was full, and we were hoping to have an empty seat next to us, but to no avail. </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Dubai airport was so deserted, and almost seemed so ghost-like. </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">On our flight back home to Durban, there were plenty of empty seats (which is unlikely to happen on an Emirates flight). </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 80%; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;">Empty seats on Emirates</td></tr>
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</span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">This was such an eventful trip. We spent 8 days in Sri Lanka, but we had done and seen so much of the country in this short space of time, than we had ever done on any other trip. Sri Lanka is beautiful. We hope to go back some day to complete our journey.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span>Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-1922630909487242572019-06-19T05:52:00.001-07:002024-03-28T00:43:28.478-07:00South Korea (May 2019)<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Friendly people, excellent transport system, lots of things to see and do ... this is how we experienced South Korea.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">A few weeks before your trip the someone close to you has a medical issue that is not dissipating, who also happens to be your travel buddy/hubby. What do you do - should you cancel the trip or not. Thankfully we made the trip, armed with a bagful of medication which we did not use. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We flew Emirates. As we had a long stopover in Dubai, we were provided with free accommodation, meals and transfers by Emirates. Navigating our way to the Dubai Connect desk proved to be very daunting as we were not sure in which direction to go. Normally if we were catching a flight we could check the boards for our gate. We were booked into the <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/Hotel_Review-g295424-d2331543-Reviews-Copthorne_Airport_Hotel_Dubai-Dubai_Emirate_of_Dubai.html" target="_blank">Copthorne Airport Hotel</a>. The meals were so delicious here. The next morning we had to leave the hotel at 1am to depart for our early flight to Seoul. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copthorne Airport Hotel</td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Seoul is such an amazing place, so vibrant and full of activity. We were so glad to stay in the Myeongdong area, as there was so much to do. The <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/Hotel_Review-g294197-d7613319-Reviews-Ibis_Styles_Ambassador_Seoul_Myeongdong-Seoul.html" target="_blank">Ibis Styles Ambassador</a> was the hotel we stayed in. It was close to shopping and the subway. We had to learn how to use the subway, which was very confusing at first, and it was an adventure all of its own. It was such a convenient way of getting from one place to another. We bought a T- money card and kept on topping it up. We also bought KTX train tickets for our trip to Busan and back. We were worried that we were not going to get tickets, as we did not book in advance, but we managed to get tickets. These were the places that we visited in Seoul:</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">N Seoul Tower<br />Gyeongbukgung Palace<br />Changdeokgung Palace<br />Jogyesa Temple<br />Gwangjung Market<br />Dongdaemun Design Plaza<br />Namdaemun Market<br />Insadong</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delicious street food</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Myeongdong</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the palaces</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gwangung Market</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Axl1qPiLW4/XQotRo2ezDI/AAAAAAAADac/AbHzslPhiEo_muEStsqubGpTpXVGB399QCLcBGAs/s1600/Capture14.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="907" height="441" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Axl1qPiLW4/XQotRo2ezDI/AAAAAAAADac/AbHzslPhiEo_muEStsqubGpTpXVGB399QCLcBGAs/s640/Capture14.PNG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Namdaemun Market</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ibis Styles Ambassador Hotel</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lMwYPxXToPs/XQotTlgXrsI/AAAAAAAADas/zkiIlVIqNEgTfH6_ge8vBdThQDzgIy46ACLcBGAs/s1600/Capture18.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="597" data-original-width="508" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lMwYPxXToPs/XQotTlgXrsI/AAAAAAAADas/zkiIlVIqNEgTfH6_ge8vBdThQDzgIy46ACLcBGAs/s640/Capture18.PNG" width="544" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dongdaemun Design Plaza</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2yT41yfxdxo/XQotT15zXNI/AAAAAAAADaw/SaTJ7zwWmxQ80wZJ6_AlR4ms2ZhyhOfpACLcBGAs/s1600/Capture19.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="607" data-original-width="896" height="432" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2yT41yfxdxo/XQotT15zXNI/AAAAAAAADaw/SaTJ7zwWmxQ80wZJ6_AlR4ms2ZhyhOfpACLcBGAs/s640/Capture19.PNG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Insadong</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-re7zQRi0L-0/XQotUkdWY_I/AAAAAAAADa4/J6WTYQNjio4znJYQfWj_7sPSoBMmr3L-gCLcBGAs/s1600/Capture20.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="618" data-original-width="912" height="432" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-re7zQRi0L-0/XQotUkdWY_I/AAAAAAAADa4/J6WTYQNjio4znJYQfWj_7sPSoBMmr3L-gCLcBGAs/s640/Capture20.PNG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jongyesa Temple</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7fa5l86176k/XQotVV_r8sI/AAAAAAAADa8/xSH-QCqduAQ8nbUf2ex5epGaQ5DmmjfSgCLcBGAs/s1600/Capture21.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="584" data-original-width="911" height="409" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7fa5l86176k/XQotVV_r8sI/AAAAAAAADa8/xSH-QCqduAQ8nbUf2ex5epGaQ5DmmjfSgCLcBGAs/s640/Capture21.PNG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">N Tower area</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vijuUQX27zY/XQors3zvCxI/AAAAAAAADZU/BrmzadPoEwACgeYmbSGAlmFWnb7NwqcBACLcBGAs/s1600/Capture6.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="908" height="440" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vijuUQX27zY/XQors3zvCxI/AAAAAAAADZU/BrmzadPoEwACgeYmbSGAlmFWnb7NwqcBACLcBGAs/s640/Capture6.PNG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside the subway train</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d6MLNtLrRDE/XQosry0fSPI/AAAAAAAADZ4/8wBhAsYvo5AoHA7bvElVnD0e0ESX0eUNgCLcBGAs/s1600/Capture16.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="573" data-original-width="911" height="401" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d6MLNtLrRDE/XQosry0fSPI/AAAAAAAADZ4/8wBhAsYvo5AoHA7bvElVnD0e0ESX0eUNgCLcBGAs/s640/Capture16.PNG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DMZ site</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LRv43K4yl5U/XQos5rznUgI/AAAAAAAADZ8/o5z29FcEP2I1IFqUsHTOl-IeZSXH_EJpwCLcBGAs/s1600/Capture17.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="608" data-original-width="907" height="427" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LRv43K4yl5U/XQos5rznUgI/AAAAAAAADZ8/o5z29FcEP2I1IFqUsHTOl-IeZSXH_EJpwCLcBGAs/s640/Capture17.PNG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">North Korea<br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">We also did the DMZ tour, and this we booked through the hotel. It was a bit pricey, but we caught a small glimpse of the North Korean side. We savoured the street food from the tteokbokkie (spicy rice cakes) to the dumplings. We also bought food from the 7-eleven. I enjoyed the kimbap (</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">fillings squashed firmly into rice and wrapped in a sheet of dried seaweed) At night </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Myeongdong came alive with the street food stalls. We did a lot of walking, and there were a lot of money changers everywhere. It was also starting to get hot, and I had issues with bloating and water retention. Also I had to take my glasses everywhere especially to read the maps and the stops at the train station (the joys of getting older)</span></span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">We took the bullet train to Busan. It was a 2.5 hour journey. Busan was more laid back. We stayed at the <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/ShowUserReviews-g297884-d2330604-r472812589-Ibis_Ambassador_Busan_City_Centre-Busan.html" target="_blank">Ibis </a></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/ShowUserReviews-g297884-d2330604-r472812589-Ibis_Ambassador_Busan_City_Centre-Busan.html" target="_blank">Ambassador Busan<b> </b>City Centre Hotel</a>, which was a little further away from the shopping and restaurants, but the subway was right next door. The breakfast was so yummy.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">KTX</td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">We visited these places in Busan:</span></span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Jagalchi Fish Market </span></span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Gukje Market</span></span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Gamcheon Cultural Village</span></span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Biff Square</span></span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Taejongdae Park</span></span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">We
used to take the subway in the evening to partake in the street food
and explore Biff Square and Gukje Market. We couldn't get enough of
hotteok (delicious pancakes). The Jagalchi fish market was lined with an
assortment of fish and octopus. Taejongdae Park was the most beautiful
park we have ever seen. All I can say is that it is heaven on earth. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OkNXn7bM_Dc/XQouxQF_w5I/AAAAAAAADb4/vOZddbRISzolI6fShBmFtK4uicCLFEN4gCLcBGAs/s1600/Capture24.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="703" height="579" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OkNXn7bM_Dc/XQouxQF_w5I/AAAAAAAADb4/vOZddbRISzolI6fShBmFtK4uicCLFEN4gCLcBGAs/s640/Capture24.PNG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taejongdae Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taejongdae Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TI8G_EfxfJ4/XQouyhfAhiI/AAAAAAAADcE/dVDMBdRdXiEH8ueIGlKlWUNEqWthr1dfwCLcBGAs/s1600/Capture26.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="601" data-original-width="911" height="420" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TI8G_EfxfJ4/XQouyhfAhiI/AAAAAAAADcE/dVDMBdRdXiEH8ueIGlKlWUNEqWthr1dfwCLcBGAs/s640/Capture26.PNG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jagalchi Fish Market</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7oLhpKlOeJU/XQouy2gDCdI/AAAAAAAADcI/X5pbNVsPYcoNJPAuiSMrPI-OCeKYuce8ACLcBGAs/s1600/Capture27.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="659" data-original-width="513" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7oLhpKlOeJU/XQouy2gDCdI/AAAAAAAADcI/X5pbNVsPYcoNJPAuiSMrPI-OCeKYuce8ACLcBGAs/s640/Capture27.PNG" width="497" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Biff Square</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qcjX7_95-KQ/XQouy-zrgoI/AAAAAAAADcM/uHZYIo2ktyMdyd2A_oFP5L1KzW0c3I7bQCLcBGAs/s1600/Capture28.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="604" data-original-width="899" height="427" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qcjX7_95-KQ/XQouy-zrgoI/AAAAAAAADcM/uHZYIo2ktyMdyd2A_oFP5L1KzW0c3I7bQCLcBGAs/s640/Capture28.PNG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delicious pancake</td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">It was time to head home. When I was at Busan station I realised that I had left my favourite red scarf at the hotel breakfast room, and I was so tempted to take the train back to fetch it. When we got home we realised that the seaweed that we had taken from breakfast was missing. Our thoughts led us back to the airport where security had emptied our back pack, as I had packed some kitchen stuff that I was not supposed to. The security forgot to put back the seaweed. <br /></span></span></div><br /><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We boarded the All Stop Train to Incheon airport. When a friendly guy told us that the train was not going to take us directly to the airport we almost panicked. We jumped off and transferred to another train that took us to Terminal 1. Travelling can take you away from your comfort zone, and will land you in very unpredictable situations. But one also realises ones strength and weaknesses, and more so on this trip. </span></span></div>
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Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-61225369476715728912018-06-19T06:22:00.003-07:002024-03-28T00:41:45.834-07:00Turkey (May/June 2018)<br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: small;">Turkey has always been on our bucket list of places to visit. In retrospect it was the best place I have visited. We flew Turkish Airlines.</span></span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">In Istanbul we stayed at the <a href="http://thebyzantiumhotel.com/" target="_blank">Byzantium Hotel & Suites.</a> The hotel is situated in the Sultanahmet district and is close to tourist attractions, restaurants and shopping. We loved stepping out and exploring the tourist attractions and enjoyed eating at the Dervish Cafe and Restaurant, as it had a wonderful view of the Blue Mosque, and we could also people watch. However during Ramadan the menu changed to suit those who were breaking their fast, so it was a bit of a disappointment not to have dinner there. We used to stay out late and watch the spectacular sunrise over the Blue Mosque and watch locals and tourists congregating around this area. On the first day that we arrived, we ate at the Turquoise Terrace Cafe & Restaurant, and<b> </b>be warned<b> </b>that whatever is placed on your table, you have to pay for. First we had a basket of bread, which we thought was complimentary, then a two litre bottle of water was opened, without us requesting for it. We requested lamb, but it definitely tasted like goat. There is so much to see and do in Istanbul. We did the Bosphorus cruise and took the tram to Eminönü. One of our highlights was visiting the beautiful Gulhane Park. In the six days that we were there we only explored the Sultanahmet region.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Sunset over the Blue Mosque</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Turquoise Terrace Cafe & Restaurant</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Had our balik emek here</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Beautiful Gulhane Park</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Gulhane Park</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Beautiful gardens at Topkapi Palace</span></td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">In Cappadocia we stayed at the <a href="https://cappadociacavesuites.com/en/" target="_blank">Cappadocia Cave Suites</a>.
It was like living in a cave. The next morning we arose to a stunning
display of hot air balloons. We could also watch the sunset from the
terrace. The hotel is so unlike the typical high rise buildings with
dormitory style passageways. It had a communal feel to it, as we could
stand in the terrace and chat, and people watch.We had a proper key to
our room door. We booked the Red Tour with Fairyland Travel at a very
reasonable price. We decided to bite the bullet and do the hot air
balloon ride as well. We were picked up at 4am. What an awesome sight to
see these huge balloons all lined up and ready to go. Getting into the
balloon basket proved to be extremely awkward and funny, but the ride was so
smooth. All the balloons landed squarely onto the backs of 4x4s.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">View from Cappadocia Cave Suites hotel terrace</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">View from hotel room</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">In Kusadasi we stayed at the <a href="http://doubletree3.hilton.com/en/hotels/turkey/doubletree-by-hilton-hotel-kusadasi-XKUKUDI/index.html" target="_blank">Doubletree by Hilton.</a>
Like all our other hotels in Turkey, this one was also close to
restaurants and shopping. It was a perfect place to explore Ephesus and
to visit Pamukkale. It was very hot here and and the tours required us
to do a lot of walking in the midday sun. The umbrella and sun block
didn't help much. But we enjoyed exploring and didn't want to be cooped
up in the hotel room, even though our room was comfy and had a
spectacular view of the marina and hotel pools. We thought our stay here
was too long, but we always found something to do. In Turkey one drives
on the right side of the road, one has to be cautious when crossing the
road, as we are used to traffic approaching from the left. Once when we
got off the tour bus, we decided to cross the street in front of the
bus, and almost forgot to see the fast car approaching from the right.
What if we didn't. that thought always scares me ...</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Breakfast at Doubletree</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Kusadasi</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Hierapolis</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Rooftop gardens in Kusadasi</span></td></tr>
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<br />Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-92100128106582866392017-05-30T06:39:00.000-07:002024-03-28T00:40:32.332-07:00Morocco (May 2017)<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">What an unforgettable experience. To think that I was so apprehensive before I left. </span></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The trip has been planned well in advance. Flights and hotels have been booked and confirmed. The count down begins, weeks turn into days, days into hours. It's the day before we leave for our long journey, and we have to start packing. I am still not excited, packing has become such a chore. This never used to be like this, maybe it's age or maybe I am worried about my dad, who was not well. There is always the worry of the unknown.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Casablanca airport</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We are ready to be picked up and taken to the airport. We arrive at King Shaka and we fly Emirates. I think to myself that in two weeks, the journey will be over, this is a bit depressing. Then it is time to board, and we are on our way. Excitement starts to creep in. After 16 hours of travelling we finally arrive at our destination, Casablanca. Unlike India, you are not escorted to the hotel building, you have to check in yourself. Check-in proceeds without a hitch. Our hotel room at <a href="http://www.kenzi-hotels.com/kenzibasma/default-en.html" target="_blank">Kenzi Basma</a> was clean with a comfortable bed and pillows, and the bath area was spacious. We had a balcony that overlooked a beautiful block of flats. We checked out the area to the left of the hotel, it seemed a bit run down, with the smell of urine everywhere. However, the hub of the city lay in the opposite direction. There was live entertainment in the city square everyday. Further along lay more shops and eating places. The <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/ShowUserReviews-g293732-d7980715-r315274179-Quartier_Habous-Casablanca_Grand_Casablanca_Region.html" target="_blank">Habous District </a>and souks were across the busy street. Thanks to our smart phone we managed to locate other places of interest. We took a taxi to the <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/Attraction_Review-g293732-d2457546-Reviews-Morocco_Mall-Casablanca_Grand_Casablanca_Region.html" target="_blank">Morocco Mall</a> and <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/Attraction_Review-g293732-d3950173-Reviews-Anfaplace_Shopping_Center-Casablanca_Grand_Casablanca_Region.html" target="_blank">Anfa Place</a>. The malls were not worth a visit, but you could walk to the beach from Anfa Place. I must admit that it was with deep trepidation that we took taxis - knowing that we will be ultimately ripped off, and that did happen in Morocco. But we learnt the hard way - we needed to set a price first.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chefchaouen</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The next leg of our journey took us to Chefchaouen. It was a five hour drive across mountains and rural territory, and then we arrived at this beautiful blue city perched beneath the Rif Mountains. We had to tip the two baggage carriers 40 dirhams to carry our bags up the steep flights of stairs to <a href="https://nz.hotels.com/ho582893/riad-gharnata-chefchaouen-morocco/" target="_blank">Riad Gharnata</a>, our abode for the next three days. Our room was in the form of a duplex with a steep climb to the bedroom upstairs. the room was so tiny that we couldn't move around the room without knocking our knees onto the bed base. We were taken aback by the stunning room and courtyard décor. Breakfast was served in the courtyard in front of our rooms. At night we could hear the children play and the calls to prayer echoed in the mornings. The entrance to the medina was lined with restaurants, and you couldn't walk past here without being accosted by young men wanting you to eat at their restaurant. It was also their chance to flirt with the young women passing by. I did have a bit of a tummy bug here, having had their soup, which I am sure was laced with beef. I did feel guilty about throwing up in the beautiful ceramic sink. I bought my first batch of cherries here. There were shops galore, and the prices were reasonable compared to the other cities that we visited. It did rain the second day, and it got bitterly cold and we wondered what we were going to do. But we did venture out of the medina in the afternoon.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fes</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Fes reminded me of a desert, as most of the buildings were a golden brown in colour. Our room at <a href="http://www.acrosshotels.com/index.php/en/" target="_blank">Hotel Across</a> was spacious and had a balcony with a good view of the city. The bathroom had a lovely magnifying mirror - very handy for applying makeup. All the hotels that we stayed in Morocco did not provide bottled water, nor did they have a kettle. Luckily there were shops or supermarkets close by where we could purchase water. We found Fes to be a bit of a disappointment, but we did find things to do. We took a taxi to the old medina, but an arrogant tout spoilt this trip for us. We did return via the beautiful gardens of the <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/Attraction_Review-g293733-d2039292-Reviews-Jardin_Jnan_Sbil-Fes_Fes_Boulemane_Region.html" target="_blank">Jardin Jnan Sbil</a>, but received wrong directions to Bab Boujloud, and eventually gave up going to the medina. There were a lot of poor children selling tissues on the streets and I was deeply touched by one of them sleeping on the pavement in the blazing sun. At night we used to take a walk around the hotel. We always felt safe. Families and children used to gather in the parks, and with the appearance of street markets, the place became a hive of activity. The sun used to set around 9pm.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jemaa el-Fna</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Atlas Mountains</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The drive from Fes to Marrakech was the longest we have ever undertaken - a full nine hours. I was worried about my back and knees, but luckily there were no issues. And we did a lot of walking. The walk to the <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/Attraction_Review-g293734-d8285991-Reviews-Menara_Mall-Marrakech_Marrakech_Tensift_El_Haouz_Region.html" target="_blank">Menara Mall</a> took fifteen minutes, and we were staying in Marrakech when the temperatures were soaring to 42 degrees. We decided that we will spend the afternoons in the hotel and venture out during the afternoon. We visited <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/Attraction_Review-g293734-d318047-Reviews-Jemaa_el_Fnaa-Marrakech_Marrakech_Tensift_El_Haouz_Region.html" target="_blank">Jemaa el- Fna</a> in the afternoon, and it was still a blazing 36 degrees. Luckily there were restaurants around this centre, and we could cool down with a drink. It was so hot and while sitting at the restaurant, I kept thinking to myself how I was going to step out into the heat. When we walked into the souk areas, it seemed much cooler as they were shaded. It was a pleasure to walk around the souks, as the roads were wider, and nobody hassled you. But there were a lot of motorbikes. The Jemaa el- Fna was an unforgettable experience. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We were free on our last day, and we decided to book a tour to the <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/Attraction_Review-g293730-d479067-Reviews-Ourika_Valley_Day_Trips-Morocco.html" target="_blank">Ourika Valley</a>, which included a trip to a Berber village, a hike below the Atlas Mountains, and lunch. The hike was strenuous and I stopped halfway, hubby and the rest of the group managed to climb all the boulders to the top. I waited at one of the restaurants scattered along the foothills of the mountains, next to a mesmerising waterfall. The scenery was spectacular and lunch was scrumptious.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">It was soon time to leave this beautiful country. We had a wonderful time here. Our driver picked us up an hour late, and we arrived at the airport two hours before departure time.</span></span><br />
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<br />Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-3264380923548589522016-11-07T23:35:00.001-08:002018-06-20T02:13:45.108-07:00My first travel experience (1987)<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I remember that day so clearly, way back in 1987. My colleagues dropped me off in front of the Imperial Hotel (in Pietermaritzburg) so that I could take the Cheetah Coaches to the Louis Botha airport in Durban. This was going to be my first ride on a plane and my first trip to Cape Town.</span></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My mother was so teary-eyed. I don't blame her, to her mind I was heading off to unchartered territory. I was flying and was heading off to a place that was very far away from home. When my boss told me that I will be attending a conference in Cape Town, it was met with fear and trepidation. My first thought was who was I going with. When I was told that I was going with my white colleagues, I wanted to decline the request immediately. I had only recently started work, and I was still getting acquainted with my colleagues. I was very shy and reserved back then. The first thought that crossed my mind was how was I going to interact with them or even communicate!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">First of all I had over-packed. I was shocked to see my colleague with only a back pack. I remember lugging my heavy suitcase through a very windy Cape Town. In those days there were no suitcases with wheels. Just as well I had packed some warm clothes, as the weather in Cape
Town can be very unpredictable. Also, remember there was no Accuweather
back then. It's a good thing I was not sitting next to my colleague, as I didn't know how to buckle up on the plane, and was too afraid to ask. Also, I could not hide my excitement from being on the plane. I have come along way since then.When we arrived at our hotel, the guys at reception had a bit of a chuckle at my long surname. They wouldn't dare do that today. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The conference and after-hours programme was amazing. We got to visit the beautiful Vergelegen Estate where we had the most delicious fish braai. We went for walks along the beach, browsed the markets, and had tea at Greenacres. I remember the friendly Capetonian smiles, and everywhere you went you saw that magnificent mountain.</span></span><br />
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Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-760233046119500322016-10-27T03:23:00.002-07:002018-07-03T05:35:36.891-07:00What to pack<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It can be daunting for a first time traveller, not knowing what to pack or what to include in your carry-on and main luggage.</span></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><u>Carry-on luggage </u></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Clothing</span></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">change of clothes</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">compression socks</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">flight socks</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">scarf </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">eye mask</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">donut cushion</span></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hardware</span></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">cell phone and charger</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">tablet and charger </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">pen and paper</span></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Medication</span></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">immodium</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">pectrolyte and spoon</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">flu meds</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">chronic meds</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">anti-inflammatories</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">pain meds</span></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Toiletries</span></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">toothbrush and toothpaste</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">handwipes</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">hand cream </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">moisturiser</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">lip balm</span></span></li>
</ol>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Finally, snacks, sweets and gum in case you are feeling peckish.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I found these videos extremely helpful: </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><u>Main luggage</u></span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Do not put any valuables (money, credit cards, jewellery) in your main luggage. They say that the best way to pack your clothes is to roll them. It works for me for some items of my clothing. I also include my toiletries, small items of clothing and other meds in resealable clear plastic bags. It makes it easier to search for items when in your hotel room. It also keeps things tidy.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Most importantly don't forget to take your money, credit cards and passport with you.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">HAPPY PACKING!!! </span></span>Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-50215734199713839452016-06-06T00:51:00.000-07:002024-03-28T00:34:11.633-07:00Bali (May 2016)<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We combined the Bali trip with Hong Kong. The beautiful gardens, the enchanting music and amazing people will forever be etched in our minds.</span></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Bali was very hot and humid. We stayed in a very comfortable hotel, the <a href="http://spph.pphotels.com/" target="_blank">Sanur Paradise Plaza Hotel</a>. The breakfast had a mixture of eastern and western dishes, and the gardens were beautiful. The hotel also had a free shuttle to the beach (the beach was not as stunning as in Hoi An) and to Hardys, as well as the night market. There was a beach down the road which we used to frequent in the evenings, when it was much cooler.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Our tours were booked with <a href="https://www.panorama-tours.com/amayzingtripwithanz?in_source=amayzingtripwithanz" target="_blank">Panorama Tours</a>. They were very efficient and well organised. They will pick you up from your hotel, and take you to their offices, and then pair you off with other English-speaking tourists, who are on the same tour as you. You may end up with some snooty, or not so snooty individuals. You will be transported in a luxury bus or minibus, with an English-speaking guide. We were told by the guy that picked us up from the airport that our first tour will begin the next day at 8 o'clock in the morning. The next day we got up early and waited till 9 o'clock, only to be told that our tour starts at 1pm.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The first tour was called the Oleh Oleh tour or shopping tour. We went with a snooty Canadian pair and a South African couple. We got to visit the stone-carvings at Batu Bulan, and silver and gold crafts at Celuk, and galleries at Ubud. We were given about two hours to shop in Ubud. We spent it at a very nice restaurant called <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g297701-d6104885-Reviews-Gedong_Sisi_Warung-Ubud_Bali.html" target="_blank">Gedong Sisi</a>. I had a delicious nasi goreng with chicken and prawns.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">For the Kintamani (full day) tour we visited the centre for wood carving, we tasted delicious tea and coffee on the way to see Mount Batu. We went with a Canadian, some South African women, a pair from Holland and three people from Bali.We had lunch, which is a bit of a rip off, as you are forced to eat at the only restaurant in the area, and you pay a ridiculously high price for the food. You have to pay cash, otherwise if you pay by credit card, they add an extra three percent to the bill. On the way back we visited the Holy Spring water Temple.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The Bali mystical tour (full day) included the watching of a play, visiting a weaving centre, and the visiting of the Besakhi Temple, as well as a museum, and a village. We travelled with Canadians, who were a tad friendlier than the last group we travelled with. Lunch overlooked beautiful paddy fields, situated in a deep valley.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The last Saturday of our trip was spent at Hardys. We had lunch at a trendy restaurant called <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/Restaurant_Review-g297700-d1135122-Reviews-Cafe_Batu_Jimbar-Sanur_Denpasar_Bali.html" target="_blank">Cafe Batu Jimbar</a>. A flea market is held here on a Sunday.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">On the last Sunday of our stay in Bali, we decided to take a half-day tour to Tana Lot Temple to watch the sunset. This was the highlight of our trip. There were hordes of people at this site, and even though we did not get to see the sunset, the views were spectacular. This place has atmosphere like no other. I had a grilled corn on the cob. We also visited the monkey forest and saw some enormous bats. We got back to the hotel around 8pm, and drove through Seminyak, which is quite spectacular at night, with all its well-lit and trendy restaurants.</span></span><br />
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<br />Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-53770499102309724192016-05-30T03:56:00.002-07:002024-03-28T00:36:17.143-07:00Hong Kong in 3 days (May 2016)<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We flew Cathay pacific. We arrived at our hotel at 7 o’clock in the morning only to be told that we would have to wait until 3pm for our room to be ready. All we wanted to do was to rest our tired and weary bodies, and this is the last thing you want to hear.</span></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We stayed at the <a href="http://www.nathanhotel.com/en/front/index.php">Nathan Hotel,</a> which is close to shopping and some famous landmarks. It was a matter of minutes walking to Victoria Harbour, the night market and Kowloon Park. The hotel came with a savvy smartphone.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The beautifully manicured gardens of Kowloon Park, the soothing sounds of the waterfalls and the sight of women practicing tai-chi can bring instant relief to any tired soul.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We were astounded by the number of towering skyscrapers and luxury vehicles. While most of the skyscrapers are used for commercial reasons, many are used for housing. And if you walk below a residential building, and you notice drops of water falling down on you, it is not a quick shower, but water dripping from lines of washing.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We used the double-decker trams to take us from one end of Hong Kong Island to the other. The trams can also be used as a hop-on-hop off type of transport, as you can hop off at any terminus, and explore an area that you are interested in and then hop on to the next tram. Alternatively, you could sit on the tram and travel the full length of a line without changing trams, which is what we did. You only pay upon disembarking by dropping the exact fare in coins into the fare box (which incidentally is not checked by the driver).</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The district close to the waterfront – Tsim Sha Tsui is the heart of the city. It’s a good place to stroll around during the day, to sit in one of the two viewing decks along the promenade, and listen to the live entertainment or simply people watch. We did get a taste of home when we witnessed some professional Zulu dancing taking place. The promenade comes to its own in the evening when one can take in the breath taking view of the lighted harbour and the Hong Kong Island skyline. Crowds of people jostle with one another trying to get the best photo or selfie.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: small;">You can also get to see one or more of Hong Kong’s museums along this stretch. The one that we were interested in visiting – the Space Museum was unfortunately closed due to renovations taking place. We did however take full advantage of the free apple cider that was being dished out near the promenade. It was a very welcome respite from the midday heat.</span> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Hong Kong is a city that does not sleep. Shops only close around 10.30pm. Just as it was time to head back to our hotel, hordes of young party goers were stepping out into the night. Transport is easily accessible especially for those days when you had one drink too many. As night falls, night markets appear stretching over several streets and selling just about any merchandise you can think of. Street food stalls and restaurants with outdoor seating also make their appearance. We savoured on the mini egg puffs (crispy waffles), dim sum and bubble tea at the Temple Street Night Market which was conveniently located opposite the Nathan Hotel. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Although we did strike off some of our items on our bucket list of things to do in Hong Kong, there is much more to see and do here. Only this time we would prefer to go when it is cooler.</span></span>Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-73945980998268392112016-05-19T06:37:00.001-07:002018-08-27T01:50:09.671-07:00Travelling sickness<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It’s all so exciting planning
for a trip. Then you arrive at your destination and find that you have all these health issues.</span></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On my recent trip
to Hong Kong and Bali, my ankles and feet almost doubled in size. It was
extremely uncomfortable to put my feet down and walk. Hong Kong and Bali were very hot, and we did lots of walking. This did not help the
ankles and feet. The body seemed to have doubled in size and the face was puffy in the morning. The older you get you realise that the body takes longer to heal, and long after you return. On our return journey from Johannesburg to Durban, the
eardrums were blocked. This can be excruciatingly painful, and
there is nothing much you can do. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So to prevent swollen ankles and feet during your flight, the following may help from http://www.avogel.co.uk/blog/2014/07/30/10-tips-to-help-survive-heavy-legs-when-flying/</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">http://www.active.com/travel/articles/travel-and-lower-leg-swelling</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span>
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Twiddle your toes - keeping your feet and ankles moving while sitting for long periods will
encourage regular blood flow.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Keep cool<b> </b>– many people notice a slight swelling in their fingers and
toes after intense exercise or in hot weather. The same scenario can be
replicated in an aeroplane. When you are too hot, your veins dilate.
Additionally, you are prone to sweat more, losing salt through the skin. This
makes your veins less efficient at drawing blood from surrounding tissues,
allowing blood and other fluid to gather in your legs.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Wear loose-fitting clothing and compresson stockings</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Drink lots of water</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Go for a walk</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> After your flight:</span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Go for a walk</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Have a massage</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Rinse your legs in cold water</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Also this site may help http://www.healthandhealthyliving.com/6-causes-water-retention-reverse/</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To prevent your ears from getting plugged the following may help from http://www.healthyhearing.com/report/52447-Airplanes-and-ear-pain-why-it-happens-and-what-you-can-do</span></span><br />
<ul><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Avoid sleeping during ascent or descent </span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Drink lots of fluids in-flight to stay hydrated </span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Yawn</span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Chew gum </span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">EarPlanes: Specially designed ear plugs that have a filter to equalize pressure</span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Nasal spray: Take only on as as-needed basis as overuse of nasal sprays can end up causing more congestion. Use 1 hour prior to descent</span></span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Decongestant: Shrinks nasal membranes. Take one hour before descent, also post-flight until ears normalize</span></span></li>
</ul>
<br /></div>
Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-4302943756855397332015-04-07T02:45:00.000-07:002018-08-27T01:55:38.255-07:00Tipping in India<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">T<span style="font-family: inherit;">o tip or not to tip - that is the question.</span></span></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On our first three trips to India hubby and I tipped very generously. For a half day city tour we were tipping the driver and guide a 100 rupees each. On long driving trips we were tipping the driver over a 100 rupees per day. On our last trip to India we decided that we were not going to tip as half of our moneys went on tipping. If you are on a two-week stay in India and visiting a different place every two days or so, the tipping can eat into your budget. Eventually we did tip, as half way through this trip we were feeling very guilty about not doing so.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Imagine the guilt at not having tipped the guides and drivers on the first half of our journey ... especially the guide who drove with us to Rishikesh from Haridwar (his home-town) to accompany us to the ganga-arthi, and who had to drive back home by motorbike, and the guide who took us to a temple for an improptu lunch, or the guide who took me to the first-class toilet at the train station and who painstakingly carried our bags from the train and up the stairs to our hotel in Shimla, and another who carried our bags to the car on our return journey from Shimla, as well as the driver who took the bus from Shimla to drive us from Chandigarh to Delhi. Oh, my heart bleeds when I think about this. On the other hand we should not have tipped the driver who rushed us on our tour of Mumbai. You might be thinking as travellers to India especially, we ought to be tipping, as the guides and drivers do not get paid well. You are quite right.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So this begs the question- how much do we tip! At restaurants it is convenient if the bill includes the compulsory government tax as well as the service charge (tip). Initially we assumed that the government tax was the service tax. At some of the restaurants that we ate, we were charged a 17% government tax, at others we were charged a government tax, a service tax and a service charge. At a restaurant in Delhi we paid by card, and the bill did not have the word "gratuity" included in it, as we do in SA restaurants. So we did not know where to add the tip. After we paid our bill, one of the waiters rudely placed the the black wallet-type cover that normally accompanies the bill on our table. We enclosed the tip in the cover and left. It is not that we did not want to tip but we were not sure what procedure to follow. Hopefully these two websites may help with the tipping. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://indiasomeday.com/tipping-in-india.aspx" target="_blank">http://indiasomeday.com/tipping-in-india.aspx </a></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://in.finance.yahoo.com/news/charges-taxes-restaurants-121637590.html">https://in.finance.yahoo.com/news/charges-taxes-restaurants-121637590.html</a></span></span></span>Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-23019590586846437392015-04-07T00:16:00.001-07:002023-10-24T23:59:15.878-07:00UK transit and Schengen visas<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We were chatting at a family get-together and this subject came up during our conversation ...</span></span></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A family member related how she was left stranded at O.R. Tambo Airport en route to Sweden, as she did not know that she had to apply for a visa to the UK even if you were not leaving the airport. I did a search on UK transit visas for South Africans and came up with
this information. South African passport holders in transit through the
UK en-route to the USA, Canada, New Zealand or Australia may travel
under the ‘Transit Without a Visa’ (TWOV). Passengers transiting to any
of the Schengen countries and who hold a category C (short-term)
Schengen visa must still obtain a UK visa. This info is from <a href="http://blog.suretravel.co.za/2012/08/clarification-on-uk-transit-visas-for.html">http://blog.suretravel.co.za/2012/08/clarification-on-uk-transit-visas-for.html</a>.The Schengan area comprises <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schengen_Area">26 European countries</a>
that have abolished any passport or border control at any of their
internal border areas, therefore this rule applies to these countries
only.</span></span></span><br />
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<br />Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-19497097274401529892015-03-31T06:08:00.001-07:002024-03-28T00:31:04.796-07:00India (March 2015)<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">This was our fourth trip to India. We flew Emirates. India, again does not disappoint. Each trip offers something new, whether it is cultural, or a new eating experience.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We spent four nights in Delhi. This city was a half-way stop to other
destinations in India - Rishikesh, Shimla, Varanasi. We stayed at <a href="http://www.delhitourism.com/delhi-hotels/hotel-hansplaza-delhi.html" target="_blank">The Hans</a><a href="http://www.delhitourism.com/delhi-hotels/hotel-hansplaza-delhi.html" target="_blank"> Plaza Hotel</a>
which is of walking distance to Connaught Place and other famous
monuments. The hotel is not a first class hotel but is clean and
comfortable. Breakfast was ok.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Delhi is a shopper's
paradise, however we preferred the Sarojini Nagar market. Dilli Haat is
out of the way and a bit of a rip-off. We were also told about the Bengali Market which was not far from our hotel, but we did not get a chance to go there. Eating out in Connaught Place:
Saravana Bhavan served delicious dosas and sold tasty snacks, and it is
very crowded on any given day. We wanted to have lunch at Shiv Sagar to
get a taste of their street food, and on that particular day we wanted
to eat there, we were told they only open at 6.30pm.</span></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K1UUKX8I7lw/VRvZCyPlwBI/AAAAAAAAB_k/_8NCgMzDJxs/s1600/DSC01601.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K1UUKX8I7lw/VRvZCyPlwBI/AAAAAAAAB_k/_8NCgMzDJxs/s1600/DSC01601.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from hotel - Delhi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The drive to Rishikesh was a bit bumpy especially passing through Uttar
Pradesh. Our driver, Rajveer was good company though. The hotel that we
stayed in Rishkesh was the <a href="http://www.hotelvasundharapalace.com/" target="_blank">Hotel Vasundhara Palace</a>,
which is a two-minute walk to the Ganges. We were served the most delicious masala tea on arrival. The hotel is clean and
comfortable, with a good breakfast, especially if you intend on having
an Indian meal. The walk from the hotel to the markets is hectic, as
there are no proper pavements, and you feel as if the cars, buses, etc
are going to come onto you, also the hooting that goes on can be quite
disconcerting. The highlight off-course are the views around the Ganges.
The restaurant attached to the Madhuban Ashram, which is next door to
the hotel, serves the most delicious food.</span></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zW5kVcsI_4w/VRqdrNQOG2I/AAAAAAAAB-w/-rq0YeGTvqQ/s1600/DSC01693.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zW5kVcsI_4w/VRqdrNQOG2I/AAAAAAAAB-w/-rq0YeGTvqQ/s1600/DSC01693.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rishikesh</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WBLk7rGznHY/VRvZfi0-83I/AAAAAAAAB_s/PF9D6OA6BUE/s1600/DSC01700.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WBLk7rGznHY/VRvZfi0-83I/AAAAAAAAB_s/PF9D6OA6BUE/s1600/DSC01700.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Our next destination was Shimla. Our guide mentioned to us that we
could have driven from Rishikesh to Shimla, which is a four-hour trip.
But we were warned by others about the treacherous roads leading there.
We decided to take the train. Chaos prevails at Delhi train station and
we just followed our guide. We boarded the Shatabdi Express train to
Kalka (a four-hour journey), which was a very comfortable ride. Looking
out of the train window, one sees a very different India! The five-hour
journey from Kalka to Shimla by toy train (Himalayan Queen) was
torturous. There is not enough leg-room and the seats are not very
comfortable. Shimla is hilly, luckily we had our guide to help us with
our luggage. We were not looking forward to going back to Kalka by toy
train again. Fortunately our guide suggested we drive from Shimla to
Chandigarh as the roads were in good condition and quite wide. It wasn't
a bad drive from Shimla. The roads to Ooty were windy, narrow and treacherous. It was a hell-raising drive there and back. </span></span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We stayed at <a href="http://www.clarkesshimla.com/" target="_blank">The Clarkes Hotel</a>
in Shimla and we had a spacious and comfortable room. Shimla is about
6000 feet above sea-level and the air is thin, we could feel it in our
chests, especially when walking up to the Hanuman Temple. The view of
the snow-capped Himalayas was breath-taking. The roads in Shimla town
are so narrow and windy that you need to do a three-point turn where the
road forks. Shimla drivers are probably the most skilled drivers in the world.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We were disappointed with the <a href="http://www.goldentulipchandigarh.com/en" target="_blank">Hotel Tulip</a>
in Chandigarh. It is in the middle of nowhere. We had to ask for another room as there was going to be a
pool party, which was going to finish at midnight. The hotel staff very
reluctantly agreed. Breakfast was good though.</span></span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"></span>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-clgnCck7ONA/VRqeNWZ61DI/AAAAAAAAB-4/Pam1SVpY3RE/s1600/DSC01862.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-clgnCck7ONA/VRqeNWZ61DI/AAAAAAAAB-4/Pam1SVpY3RE/s1600/DSC01862.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shimla</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The city of Varanasi was the highlight of our trip. At first it appears
chaotic, underdeveloped and filthy. Upon entering the ghats, a different
picture emerges. Watching the sunrise over the Ganges is nothing short
of spectacular. We stayed at<a href="http://www.radisson.com/varanasi-hotel-up-221002/indvaran" target="_blank"> The Radisson Blu</a>. The bed linen was extremely comfortable and soft, however the room had a musty smell. Breakfast was excellent though. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We
attended the Ganga arathi at night, and although this was a spectacular
event I felt very uneasy with all the crowds of people. I kept wondering how we were going to get out of the stadium and find our way back to our driver. Before the event was we made our way back to where our driver was going to meet us.</span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DBZ-RhqMRKA/VRvaU9ITMuI/AAAAAAAAB_8/rOVLTF-SFWI/s1600/DSC02047.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DBZ-RhqMRKA/VRvaU9ITMuI/AAAAAAAAB_8/rOVLTF-SFWI/s1600/DSC02047.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Varanasi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y9pVUeovo4E/VRvab5Gja5I/AAAAAAAACAE/txe73MK-88E/s1600/DSC01925.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y9pVUeovo4E/VRvab5Gja5I/AAAAAAAACAE/txe73MK-88E/s1600/DSC01925.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XTE5T6j8HcA/VRqb_0E_l7I/AAAAAAAAB-k/GuqkTcpE3p8/s1600/DSC02029.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XTE5T6j8HcA/VRqb_0E_l7I/AAAAAAAAB-k/GuqkTcpE3p8/s1600/DSC02029.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Temple in Varanasi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">In Mumbai we had a sea-facing room at the <a href="http://www.tajhotels.com/luxury/grand-palaces-and-iconic-hotels/the-taj-mahal-palace-mumbai/overview.html" target="_blank">Taj Mahal Palace</a><a href="http://www.tajhotels.com/luxury/grand-palaces-and-iconic-hotels/the-taj-mahal-palace-mumbai/overview.html" target="_blank"> Tower Wing</a>,
and what a spectacular view that was. The hotel lives up to its
five-star expectations. Service was excellent, breakfast was
exceptional. The lobby area is beautiful and very inviting, and a
beautiful fragrance wafts through the air, and it has an atmosphere
like no other. We have stayed here before and this hotel does not disappoint.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qq_IMZA6HgY/VRqemEbm3MI/AAAAAAAAB_A/BfnmHejR6fc/s1600/DSC02074.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qq_IMZA6HgY/VRqemEbm3MI/AAAAAAAAB_A/BfnmHejR6fc/s1600/DSC02074.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taj Palace lobby area</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7Q-gYVPKN8s/VRqe4XhHKQI/AAAAAAAAB_I/MxYvRLO-Ork/s1600/DSC02090.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7Q-gYVPKN8s/VRqe4XhHKQI/AAAAAAAAB_I/MxYvRLO-Ork/s1600/DSC02090.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast at the Taj - feast for a king</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SFKsYVYvKoQ/VRvZ2ZcX57I/AAAAAAAAB_0/nslfN8GBNr8/s1600/DSC02108.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SFKsYVYvKoQ/VRvZ2ZcX57I/AAAAAAAAB_0/nslfN8GBNr8/s1600/DSC02108.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Near the pool area</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-78617920462824359892014-05-01T01:56:00.000-07:002024-03-28T00:34:41.576-07:00Cambodia (April 2014)<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We combined this trip with Vietnam. </span></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Apart from <a href="http://www.tourismcambodia.com/attractions/angkor/angkor-wat.htm" target="_blank">Angkor Wat</a> there is so much to see and do in Siem Reap. </span></span></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We stayed at <a href="http://www.taraangkorhotel.com/" target="_blank">Tara Angkor</a>, which is close to the temples and town. This hotel is spotlessly clean with friendly staff, and serves a very good breakfast. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We were served two free meals as part of our tour package. The Khmer meals were delicious. </span></span></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MRLBs9zv1_s/U2IU0yL8-fI/AAAAAAAAAv0/wGQN-f3t5ao/s1600/DSC01186.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MRLBs9zv1_s/U2IU0yL8-fI/AAAAAAAAAv0/wGQN-f3t5ao/s1600/DSC01186.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Tara Angkor</span></span></td></tr>
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</span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9UxGZEIXtdo/U2IU3PEQ_eI/AAAAAAAAAwE/AEwGP7GhSXI/s1600/DSC01187.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9UxGZEIXtdo/U2IU3PEQ_eI/AAAAAAAAAwE/AEwGP7GhSXI/s1600/DSC01187.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Tara Angkor</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We decided to do the touristy thing by
watching the sun rise over Angkor Wat, At 5:00am in the morning we were
all heading either in tuk-tuks or air-conditioned cars in the same
direction.</span></span></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JGt0en_MDC0/U2IUI_0HcsI/AAAAAAAAAvU/T3WAl15uB38/s1600/DSC01097.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JGt0en_MDC0/U2IUI_0HcsI/AAAAAAAAAvU/T3WAl15uB38/s1600/DSC01097.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Angkor Wat</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g0aBM7sDXb0/U2IUKBoy2QI/AAAAAAAAAvc/pTzXM8DagRA/s1600/DSC01105.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g0aBM7sDXb0/U2IUKBoy2QI/AAAAAAAAAvc/pTzXM8DagRA/s1600/DSC01105.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Angkor Wat</span></span></td></tr>
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</span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N2Tz5rMRn4E/U2IXgaMlFFI/AAAAAAAAAwo/mRs_BOidcUc/s1600/DSC01143.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N2Tz5rMRn4E/U2IXgaMlFFI/AAAAAAAAAwo/mRs_BOidcUc/s1600/DSC01143.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Ta Prohm</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">It was so hot you could see the perspiration running off all our backs except on the cool Japanese women with their wide-brimmed hats and umbrellas.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">You could take a tuk-tuk to any part of Siem Reap, and the drivers are not pushy, and you will not be taken for a ride.</span></span></span><br />
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</span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Op5w5XrG8Mo/U2IU_doUYHI/AAAAAAAAAwM/JLCp43EUFMg/s1600/DSC01197.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Op5w5XrG8Mo/U2IU_doUYHI/AAAAAAAAAwM/JLCp43EUFMg/s1600/DSC01197.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Angkor Night Market</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The Angkor night market is a must see, with exquisitely decorated huts offering all sorts of handicrafts for sale.</span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rJUn1qPALsM/U2IU1bZryUI/AAAAAAAAAv8/HaCTrGXwApA/s1600/DSC01189.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rJUn1qPALsM/U2IU1bZryUI/AAAAAAAAAv8/HaCTrGXwApA/s1600/DSC01189.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Siem Reap market</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">There are so many trendy restaurants to choose from, all tucked away in alleys and corner ways. To cool down we had to stop by quite a few of them to have a drink.</span></span></span><br />
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</span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qu0S0ihaclY/U2IYGPk851I/AAAAAAAAAww/vXm31WiU1js/s1600/DSC01198.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qu0S0ihaclY/U2IYGPk851I/AAAAAAAAAww/vXm31WiU1js/s1600/DSC01198.JPG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Pub Street at night</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Siem Reap comes alive at night with music pulsating, and eating places springing up at every corner. </span></span></span><br />
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</span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aiId735n9yI/U2IUgms0ZvI/AAAAAAAAAvs/pNHFeJuijTE/s1600/DSC01172.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aiId735n9yI/U2IUgms0ZvI/AAAAAAAAAvs/pNHFeJuijTE/s1600/DSC01172.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Angkor Mondial</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">If you're in Siem Reap drop by at <a href="http://angkormondial.asia/" target="_blank">Angkor Mondial</a> just to experience what it is like to eat at a restaurant packed with locals.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">While we were waiting for a transfer to the airport, we walked around the area close to the hotel and came across <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.za/Restaurant_Review-g297390-d4548378-Reviews-Cafe_Puka_Puka-Siem_Reap_Siem_Reap_Province.html" target="_blank">Café Puka-Puka</a> which serves the most delicious coconut shake. We also had the tastiest macaroons here.</span></span></span>Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-60250053339345367302014-05-01T01:11:00.000-07:002024-03-28T00:23:28.972-07:00Vietnam (April 2014)<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We decided to go to Cambodia and Vietnam in April, the hottest time of year.</span> We did not expect Vietnam to be so beautiful. The natural scenery is a sight to behold.</span></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We flew Singapore Airlines. Our first stop was Hoi An, a picturesque town with quaint little shops, markets and beautiful temples. We stayed at the <a href="http://www.hoianpacific.com/" target="_blank">Hoi An Pacific Hotel and Spa</a>.
It looks a bit run down, but the staff made up for it. The hotel offers
a free shuttle to the town and the beach, as well as a 5-minute
complimentary foot massage. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">At
night homes and restaurants are lit up with colourful Chinese lanterns.
There are a few restaurants across the road, which also double up as
laundromats. There is a also a mini-supermarket next door, and a
no-nonsense massage parlour down the road, which I took advantage off.
The inexpensive massages are carried out by well-trained blind masseurs.
It was one of the best massages I ever had. </span></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-14S1DMl_cTM/U2IersxNmYI/AAAAAAAAAxM/XmqBoRYBzn8/s1600/DSC01238.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-14S1DMl_cTM/U2IersxNmYI/AAAAAAAAAxM/XmqBoRYBzn8/s1600/DSC01238.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Hoi An Pacific Hotel and Spa</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rKnzIhsUTgw/U2IerE9XJiI/AAAAAAAAAxE/XDeXcy-F6DU/s1600/DSC01254.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rKnzIhsUTgw/U2IerE9XJiI/AAAAAAAAAxE/XDeXcy-F6DU/s1600/DSC01254.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hoi An</span> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kpd30b92FAE/U2IuTP-7nYI/AAAAAAAAAxg/Ys8IVYXirIg/s1600/DSC01275.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kpd30b92FAE/U2IuTP-7nYI/AAAAAAAAAxg/Ys8IVYXirIg/s1600/DSC01275.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Beach in Hoi An</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5h3naPSB50Q/U2IxiAJzfBI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/SZiASlQS29A/s1600/DSC01284.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5h3naPSB50Q/U2IxiAJzfBI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/SZiASlQS29A/s1600/DSC01284.JPG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Hoi An Blind Massage</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UWq4Mm4iHc4/U2IeqXzZEhI/AAAAAAAAAxA/W9V22yKE4A4/s1600/DSC01266.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UWq4Mm4iHc4/U2IeqXzZEhI/AAAAAAAAAxA/W9V22yKE4A4/s1600/DSC01266.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Delicious ripe jack fruit</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5jfZ0BXeNrE/U2IwQKdTNfI/AAAAAAAAAyY/a5kcuAnIqSA/s1600/DSC01316.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5jfZ0BXeNrE/U2IwQKdTNfI/AAAAAAAAAyY/a5kcuAnIqSA/s1600/DSC01316.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Hai Van Pass</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4RAGvzfWRXY/U2IwVLtGLOI/AAAAAAAAAyw/kMjlDHHUDGU/s1600/DSC01343.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4RAGvzfWRXY/U2IwVLtGLOI/AAAAAAAAAyw/kMjlDHHUDGU/s1600/DSC01343.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Hai Van Pass</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The drive from Hoi An to Hue was spectacular, as we went via the Hai Van pass. Along the way we could see the ocean and quaint little farms tucked away in the mountains.</span></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FaDwRXB4L5A/U2IvB-gSt1I/AAAAAAAAAyA/xdLrpALnAkY/s1600/DSC01355.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FaDwRXB4L5A/U2IvB-gSt1I/AAAAAAAAAyA/xdLrpALnAkY/s1600/DSC01355.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Park View Hotel</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X0AxpTeeXuo/U2Iuz8ARELI/AAAAAAAAAx4/kalzCSa7gzo/s1600/DSC01380.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X0AxpTeeXuo/U2Iuz8ARELI/AAAAAAAAAx4/kalzCSa7gzo/s1600/DSC01380.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Park View Hotel</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SGHzPZIJ5Mo/U2IvViX5hwI/AAAAAAAAAyI/pk5wjBuvUxo/s1600/DSC01358.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SGHzPZIJ5Mo/U2IvViX5hwI/AAAAAAAAAyI/pk5wjBuvUxo/s1600/DSC01358.JPG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Yummy stir-fried jackfruit that we couldn't get enough of</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VGFEAPxY9M8/U2IvWoNOhdI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/DK6T6xfTYbs/s1600/DSC01357.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VGFEAPxY9M8/U2IvWoNOhdI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/DK6T6xfTYbs/s1600/DSC01357.JPG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Lemon drink with a salted apricot -yummy!!!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Hue was a bit disappointing. The <a href="http://www.parkviewhotelhue.com/" target="_blank">Park View Hotel</a>
did not have an inviting lobby area, and the hotel was not in a good
location. The roads were so busy that we could not even cross the
streets. The Perfume River and shopping areas are not within walking
distance. The restaurant attached to the hotel, the Tinh Quan restaurant, served the most delicious
vegetarian meals and lemon drinks.</span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The cyclo driver took us to Dong Ba
market, which is a maze of shops in a very crowded setting. </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Taking a cyclo was hair raising as we had to dodge a few buses and cars, and this was too much for the nerves. </span>The driver could not understand us, neither could he understand him, and he assumed that we hired him for the day. This led to a bit of a confrontation and when we told him that we will catch a taxi back to the hotel, he became extremely angry and would not accept our money. Luckily a shopkeeper rescued us. </span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The Imperial city is worth a visit. What we found interesting were Hue's supermarkets, and we stocked up on local biscuits to take back home with us.</span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We wanted to take a cruise down the
Perfume River, but the taxi driver took us to the train station, instead
of to the harbour, and a persistent cruise tout put us off. Also nobody
seemed to be taking any cruise while we were there.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FxfOs6d5bfE/U2IulTQKrII/AAAAAAAAAxs/wwYE22kqpsM/s1600/DSC01360.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FxfOs6d5bfE/U2IulTQKrII/AAAAAAAAAxs/wwYE22kqpsM/s1600/DSC01360.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Citadel</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w3yvBTycCYg/U2IulPNxYTI/AAAAAAAAAxo/58a3gz4-oRg/s1600/DSC01363.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w3yvBTycCYg/U2IulPNxYTI/AAAAAAAAAxo/58a3gz4-oRg/s1600/DSC01363.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Citadel</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><a href="http://www.angsana.com/en/lang_co/" target="_blank">Angsana Lang Co</a>
is a beautifully, secluded beach resort. The resort is surrounded by
the beach on one side and mountains on the other, and is very tastefully
decorated. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3a4ymmp2cgU/U2JAI2QW6sI/AAAAAAAAAzs/wtuQf5B5IP8/s1600/DSC01390.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3a4ymmp2cgU/U2JAI2QW6sI/AAAAAAAAAzs/wtuQf5B5IP8/s1600/DSC01390.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Angsana Lang Co</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SPDx8Q5ws8k/U2JAHQ61ZBI/AAAAAAAAAzg/bVf5xbUqlH0/s1600/DSC01393.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SPDx8Q5ws8k/U2JAHQ61ZBI/AAAAAAAAAzg/bVf5xbUqlH0/s1600/DSC01393.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Angsana Lang Co</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UinqvzcVu0U/U2JAIb8AgOI/AAAAAAAAAzk/p_-1N9s2oYQ/s1600/DSC01394.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UinqvzcVu0U/U2JAIb8AgOI/AAAAAAAAAzk/p_-1N9s2oYQ/s1600/DSC01394.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Angsana Lang Co</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--d0-6PJ0uP8/U2JAMtSvGuI/AAAAAAAAAz4/RDbfy0HEhcA/s1600/DSC01396.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--d0-6PJ0uP8/U2JAMtSvGuI/AAAAAAAAAz4/RDbfy0HEhcA/s1600/DSC01396.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Angsana Lang Co</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-idEjkLtg_ek/U2JAarmsYUI/AAAAAAAAA0A/OMJURVsx680/s1600/DSC01451.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-idEjkLtg_ek/U2JAarmsYUI/AAAAAAAAA0A/OMJURVsx680/s1600/DSC01451.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Angsana Lang Co</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">In Hanoi, we stayed at the <a href="http://maydevillecitycentrehotel.com/" target="_blank">May De Ville City Centre Hotel</a>
at the French Quarter side. As our plane was delayed, we arrived here
quite late. The first sight that greeted us when we stepped out of the
hotel was one of women cutting meat and chicken. The smell lingered long
after we left. The hotel itself was a bit scruffy. Our only regret was
not staying in a hotel close to the Old Quarter with its myriads of shops, and with each street dedicated to a particular type of merchandise. </span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We did venture out into the Old Quarter,
and what an amazing experience it turned out to be. Wish we had more
time, and a map, and wish we could have went back to the street selling
souvenirs. The roads in Vietnam are a maze of avenues and alleyways and
it is very easy to get lost.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qY8ANEWBOPE/U2JA6ADHLkI/AAAAAAAAA0I/b40mcrWYIKc/s1600/DSC01526.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qY8ANEWBOPE/U2JA6ADHLkI/AAAAAAAAA0I/b40mcrWYIKc/s1600/DSC01526.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Outside May De Ville City Centre Hotel</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IGc_jojhpm4/U2JA7QxhLrI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/DCg7xvEPIwE/s1600/DSC01530.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IGc_jojhpm4/U2JA7QxhLrI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/DCg7xvEPIwE/s1600/DSC01530.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Old Quarter</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Halong Bay is a must-see. We did a day trip. The bay area and a cave that we visited were nothing short of spectacular. </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">On our last day we visited the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Cznvk2zgbys/U2Iw2JZmZ1I/AAAAAAAAAy4/hWxWiiqGm5o/s1600/DSC01483.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Cznvk2zgbys/U2Iw2JZmZ1I/AAAAAAAAAy4/hWxWiiqGm5o/s1600/DSC01483.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Halong Bay</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9STFCjY2HB8/U2Iw2pwq-wI/AAAAAAAAAzA/-DUUltkiog0/s1600/DSC01485.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9STFCjY2HB8/U2Iw2pwq-wI/AAAAAAAAAzA/-DUUltkiog0/s1600/DSC01485.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Halong Bay</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6-ODWePC_yg/U2Iw2CLuMFI/AAAAAAAAAy8/9pnnBk3tcn4/s1600/DSC01486.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6-ODWePC_yg/U2Iw2CLuMFI/AAAAAAAAAy8/9pnnBk3tcn4/s1600/DSC01486.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Halong Bay</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-64662929215246619712013-10-10T09:54:00.000-07:002024-03-28T00:22:39.019-07:00London (June 2013)<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We decided to go to London on a whim, as there was a special birthday that needed celebrating. We prefer destinations with its own cultural feel, and London certainly surprised us.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We flew Emirates. Our excitement started at Heathrow, from where we had to
take the tube to our hotel. This was a do-it-yourself type of holiday – no hotel transfers and no
drivers taking us to places or tour guides.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We could not have asked for a better location – as our hotel, <a href="http://www.stgiles.com/" target="_blank">St Giles Hotel</a> was a hop away from Tottenham Court Road tube station, and close to
theatres, restaurants and shopping.</span></span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DlbbNihMg20/UlbamYMW9GI/AAAAAAAAAqs/ZJApDBFbQZA/s1600/Capture6.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="354" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DlbbNihMg20/UlbamYMW9GI/AAAAAAAAAqs/ZJApDBFbQZA/s640/Capture6.PNG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OCLY4OJlhoU/UlbZgHZd3YI/AAAAAAAAAoo/lqggmHEZLzI/s1600/Capture1.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OCLY4OJlhoU/UlbZgHZd3YI/AAAAAAAAAoo/lqggmHEZLzI/s640/Capture1.PNG" width="361" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">St Giles Hotel - poky but comfortable</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9FF1X-YAp5k/UlbZ644gjMI/AAAAAAAAApY/hszVXjl36d0/s1600/Capture16.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9FF1X-YAp5k/UlbZ644gjMI/AAAAAAAAApY/hszVXjl36d0/s640/Capture16.PNG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Tottenham Court Road tube station</span></td></tr>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AfS5M4B_tKs/UlbZ66WtnTI/AAAAAAAAApc/foGxjfQZ2ng/s1600/Capture18.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AfS5M4B_tKs/UlbZ66WtnTI/AAAAAAAAApc/foGxjfQZ2ng/s640/Capture18.PNG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We had only a week in London, and we tried to see and do as
much as we could. It was easy to navigate through the city as there are tube
stations everywhere, and tourist spots are well sign-posted. Just walking the streets and taking
in the sights and sounds of London were a highlight for us, as there was
something different to be seen at every corner. There was so much to do, and we
were not bored - tired maybe, from the walking.</span> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yxaHkfUqt8I/UlbaJIC0QaI/AAAAAAAAAqA/BY2DE3rcOIc/s1600/Capture2.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yxaHkfUqt8I/UlbaJIC0QaI/AAAAAAAAAqA/BY2DE3rcOIc/s640/Capture2.PNG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The London Eye is just a thirty minute ride - but the views are quite spectacular. </span></td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BzzLh5s4b0o/UlbaUkj9hYI/AAAAAAAAAqI/JrIHl9sNrGM/s1600/Capture3.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="364" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BzzLh5s4b0o/UlbaUkj9hYI/AAAAAAAAAqI/JrIHl9sNrGM/s640/Capture3.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">London is expensive, but you can keep your budget under
control by purchasing an oyster card for use on the tube stations, top up
whenever you need to, and whatever you do not use is refundable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Museums are free, there are a myriad of
markets to visit (we loved Camden), watch the street performers at Covent
Gardens or take a walk to Leicester Square or stroll through Hyde Park.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5mFL8vKaM0Y/UlbaYvrYmlI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/QCqbb0H_A1g/s1600/Capture4.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5mFL8vKaM0Y/UlbaYvrYmlI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/QCqbb0H_A1g/s640/Capture4.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jLEArZRQ7P8/UlbafyyyRlI/AAAAAAAAAqg/Z_DoMvp2rYo/s1600/Capture5.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jLEArZRQ7P8/UlbafyyyRlI/AAAAAAAAAqg/Z_DoMvp2rYo/s640/Capture5.PNG" width="366" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Westminster Abbey</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DlbbNihMg20/UlbamYMW9GI/AAAAAAAAAqs/ZJApDBFbQZA/s1600/Capture6.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--nb3GYJ3yxA/Ulbal9apcFI/AAAAAAAAAqo/n2U1nQtgRDM/s1600/Capture7.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--nb3GYJ3yxA/Ulbal9apcFI/AAAAAAAAAqo/n2U1nQtgRDM/s640/Capture7.PNG" width="364" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zFg3xiTqoQY/UlbaqW9OLII/AAAAAAAAAq4/Lq-KwlsN4ks/s1600/Capture8.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zFg3xiTqoQY/UlbaqW9OLII/AAAAAAAAAq4/Lq-KwlsN4ks/s640/Capture8.PNG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Hyde Park</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DobB7Wn9wAI/Ulbau1GJl_I/AAAAAAAAArA/MWqYBD5NDn8/s1600/Capture9.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DobB7Wn9wAI/Ulbau1GJl_I/AAAAAAAAArA/MWqYBD5NDn8/s640/Capture9.PNG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Beautifully decorated shops</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Covent Gardens</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Tower Bridge</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Tower of London</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Amazing shows</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Camden Market</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camden Market</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camden Market</td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Taking the tube proved to be a feat sometimes as we there were a lot of stairs to climb. There was a bit of a detour taking the tube to Heathrow on our flight back home. But the English are so well organised, even having staff to carry luggage up the stairs. </span>Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-63293023162823463242013-10-08T09:35:00.001-07:002024-03-28T00:25:41.536-07:00India (January 2010, 2011, 2013)<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: x-small;">With India, we were not sure what we were getting ourselves into, as we
heard a lot of conflicting stories. But, we decided to visit anyway, to see for ourselves.
</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: x-small;">India is a cacophony of sight, sound and smell,
some pleasant, and the others not so pleasant. The constant hooting, the
crumbling buildings and poverty all belie the rich spiritual and
cultural experiences one encounters in this country.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">India is a vast country, and we decided to explore the
southern states first. Kerala, fittingly known as God’s own country, is a
laid-back tropical paradise, with beautiful beaches, lush scenery and tea
plantations.</span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"> </span> </span>A must do, on any
travellers list , is to take a journey by houseboat down
the backwaters of Kerala. Be prepared to be thoroughly spoilt and to sample the
mouth-watering cuisine prepared by your own personal chef.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PGZTXsguiYk/UlPqrerdz0I/AAAAAAAAAfQ/bEtphcBNTi0/s1600/Beautiful+Munnar.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="483" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PGZTXsguiYk/UlPqrerdz0I/AAAAAAAAAfQ/bEtphcBNTi0/s640/Beautiful+Munnar.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Munnar tea plantations</span></td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">North India is in stark contrast to its southern
counterpart. In Rajasthan, you will find colourful
cities, with beautiful palaces, and honey-gold Jain temples. The cuisine is so
different and yet so delicious, and the folk singing and dancing kept us
mesmerised. The colourful saris and turbans worn by locals fit in so perfectly
with its surroundings.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Places that we visited on our first trip were Cochin, Munnar, Mumbai and the backwaters of Kerala.</span> </span></span>We stayed at these luxurious hotels: <a href="http://www.tajhotels.com/Luxury/Grand-Palaces-And-Iconic-Hotels/The-Taj-Mahal-Palace-Mumbai/Accommodations/Taj-Mahal-Tower-Rooms.html" target="_blank">Taj Mahal Palace Tower Wing</a> (close to shopping and where you will find the best breakfast in India); <a href="http://www.hotelsone.com/cochin-hotels-in/brunton-boatyard.html?as=g&aid=8095825358&dsti=347560&dstt=8&label=ggehoeu-bh347560&akw=brunton%20boatyard&asrc=Search&ast=&gclid=CPXv2abShroCFZMQtAodv30A8w" target="_blank">Brunton Boatyard</a> (where we got the whole suite to ourselves, pity we had
not stayed here longer); <a href="http://www.nivalink.com/hotel/lakeviewmunnar" target="_blank">Club Mahindra</a> (only non-luxurious hotel on this trip catering mainly for locals, it had good views though); <a href="http://www.rainbowcruises.in/" target="_blank">Rainbow Houseboat</a> (had the best food prepared by Pillai)and <a href="http://www.vivantabytaj.com/Malabar-Cochin/Overview.html" target="_blank">Taj Malabar Tower Wing</a> (modern hotel, a bit off the beaten track, with good views and entertainment).</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Taj Mahal Tower Wing</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Il9_gppl9Sk/UlPu8q9sY2I/AAAAAAAAAgo/wjDIFh9z0k8/s1600/Brunton+Boatyard-bedroom+note+the+petals+on+the+bed.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana";"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Il9_gppl9Sk/UlPu8q9sY2I/AAAAAAAAAgo/wjDIFh9z0k8/s640/Brunton+Boatyard-bedroom+note+the+petals+on+the+bed.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Brunton Boatyard</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-klHlxHwF38M/UlPvJ0SykHI/AAAAAAAAAg4/qdEasIIPTbA/s1600/Lake+Mahindra+Lake+Resort-Munnar.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-klHlxHwF38M/UlPvJ0SykHI/AAAAAAAAAg4/qdEasIIPTbA/s640/Lake+Mahindra+Lake+Resort-Munnar.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Club Mahindra</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3xlc-mV8g3Y/UlPvbJIXAPI/AAAAAAAAAhA/jArpxu7rtp8/s1600/Room+at+Taj+Malabar.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3xlc-mV8g3Y/UlPvbJIXAPI/AAAAAAAAAhA/jArpxu7rtp8/s640/Room+at+Taj+Malabar.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Taj Malabar</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></o:p></span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Places that we visited on our second trip: Delhi, Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Udaipur and Pushkar. Hotels that we stayed in: <a href="http://le-meridien-new-delhi.hotel-rn.com/?lbl=ggl" target="_blank">Le Meridien</a> (modern hotel close to shopping i</span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">n Delhi</span>); <a href="http://www.starwoodhotels.com/luxury/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=492" target="_blank">Rajputana Sheraton</a> in Jaipur;
<a href="http://www.vivantabytaj.com/Hari-Mahal-Jodhpur/Overview.aspx" target="_blank">Taj Hari Mahal</a> in Jodhpur; <a href="http://www.hotelsone.com/jaisalmer-hotels-in/gorbandh-palace.html?as=g&aid=7963231358&dsti=191261&dstt=8&label=ggehoeu-bh191261&akw=gorbandh%20palace&asrc=Search&ast=&gclid=CJLLoYrVhroCFVSWtAodjR0ADg" target="_blank">Gorbandh Palace</a> (crummy hotel </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">in Jaislamer</span>); <a href="http://www.hrhhotels.com/grand_heritage/fateh_prakash_palace/index.aspx" target="_blank">Fatehprakash</a> (beautiful palace hotel in Udaipur close to shopping) and <a href="http://www.radissonblu.com/hotel-newdelhi" target="_blank">Radisson</a> (modern luxurious hotel in Delhi, but close to the highway). </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OeHqMLvtZH4/UlPwXAIrOBI/AAAAAAAAAhU/ySRM2ap_Phk/s1600/DSC01904.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OeHqMLvtZH4/UlPwXAIrOBI/AAAAAAAAAhU/ySRM2ap_Phk/s640/DSC01904.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Le Meridien - ultra modern hotel</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_0UHcJRpFyA/UlPwuAb_d_I/AAAAAAAAAhc/lWjcgeWXKnc/s1600/DSC01943.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_0UHcJRpFyA/UlPwuAb_d_I/AAAAAAAAAhc/lWjcgeWXKnc/s640/DSC01943.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Rajputana Sheraton</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Taj Hari Mahal</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o1GRxguiwCU/UlPxoy4Fu2I/AAAAAAAAAh8/OXfE9HOTBOU/s1600/DSC02005.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o1GRxguiwCU/UlPxoy4Fu2I/AAAAAAAAAh8/OXfE9HOTBOU/s640/DSC02005.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Gorbandh Palace - a bit tacky, and it was a long walk to our hotel room</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Fatehprakash</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">View from Fatehprakash</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">View from Fatehprakash</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">View from Fatehprakash</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Radisson</span></td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Places that we visited on our third trip: Mumbai, Goa, Coimbatore, Ooty, Thiruvanthapurum and Kanyakumari. Hotels that we stayed in: <a href="http://www.vivantabytaj.com/president-mumbai/overview.html" target="_blank">Vivanta By Taj President </a>(in Mumbai); <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The <a href="http://www.thezurihotels.com/goa/" target="_blank">Zuri Varca Goa White Sands</a> (in Goa); <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="http://www.theresidency.com/" target="_blank">The Residency</a> (modern hotel in Coimbatore)); <a href="http://www.tajhotels.com/leisure/savoy%20hotel,ooty/default.htm" target="_blank">Taj Savoy</a> (in Ooty experienced a relaxing stay and food was good); <a href="http://www.residencytower.com/" target="_blank">The Residency Tower</a> (crummy hotel in Thiruvanthapurum and the AC went off as soon as you left the room); <a href="http://www.hotelsone.com/kanyakumari-hotels-in/sparsa-resorts-kanyakumari.html?as=g&aid=8367591398&dsti=332904&dstt=8&label=ggehoeu-bh332904&akw=sparsa%20resort%20kanyakumari&asrc=Search&ast=&gclid=CMHVzIXXhroCFcaWtAod_x8Agw" target="_blank">Sparsa Resort Kanyakumari</a> (good hotel and location) and <a href="http://hotels.etrip.net/Hotel/Holiday_Inn_Mumbai_International_Airport.htm" target="_blank">Holiday Inn Mumbai</a> (modern hotel but close to highway and decrepit buildings). Goa was very relaxing and we spent a whole day on the beach. However, we got ripped off by one conniving guide. He charged us double what the hotel was offering for the spice tour. We readily accepted his price as we were en route to Anjuna and decided we might as well do the tour as it was a distance away from the hotel (about two hours). Pity we did not phone the hotel to check the prices.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Ooty was a good place to visit, but the drive there and back was treacherous, as the roads are extremely windy. The food in the hotel was excellent, and we were forced to eat at the hotel as it was away from shopping and restaurants. </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Thiruvanthapurum and Kanyakumari were a bit of a let down as we spent most of our time in the hotel, as it was too hot to get out. </span>With a few exceptions, we always got exceptional
service wherever we stayed, where the staff always greeted you and went the
extra mile. And the breakfast was a feast set for a king especially at the Taj hotels
and Le Meridien. And we couldn’t help sampling the masala tea and aloo paratha
wherever we went.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UEISp1PfFu8/UlQxCBZlblI/AAAAAAAAAkk/lXaVyUJD8DE/s1600/Capture1.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Vivanta by Taj President</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Zuri Varca</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The Residency in Coimbatore</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Mettupalayam train station</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AT3QREd2rCY/UlQpo-ebpWI/AAAAAAAAAjM/KJ27xevwSWY/s1600/DSC00256.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AT3QREd2rCY/UlQpo-ebpWI/AAAAAAAAAjM/KJ27xevwSWY/s640/DSC00256.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Taj Savoy</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Taj Savoy</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Sparsa Resort</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Kanyakumari</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">View from Holiday Inn, Mumbai</span></td></tr>
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Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-85036864124184367032013-10-07T04:22:00.002-07:002024-03-28T00:10:03.354-07:00US (February - April 2012)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: x-small;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">My trip to the US was more of a working holiday. I was chosen along with 15 other librarians from across South Africa to spend time in academic libraries. We were together for two weeks, and then we had to go our separate
ways for the next two months. I had the most amazing time, and loved travelling alone.</span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br />
<span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: x-small;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We flew Delta Airlines and noticed that the airline stewardesses seemed quite mature. First impressions when we arrived:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>airport toilets are extremely clean (at least
the ones that we were at), toilet seats are covered in plastic and the cover is
changed by means of a sensor; buses run on time; grocery stores are huge. For
our next flight, though, we had to change gates several times!</span></span><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Chicago O' Hare International Airport</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Chicago O' Hare International Airport</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Our accommodation for the next two weeks was at <a href="http://www.housing.illinois.edu/Current/Apartments/Orchard%20Downs.aspx" target="_blank">Orchard Downs Family Housing in Illinois</a>. On the first day that we arrived, my roommate and
I did not have hot water (albeit in winter) and we switched off the AC switch
accidentally (we thought it was a light switch). The laundromat was about a 5
minute walk from here, and on our first day we did not have enough coins, and the coin machine was not working. A
knight in shining armour appeared in the nick of time to save us the bother of
going back to our apartment for more coins.</span> </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Orchard Downs</span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VxY8NhLYBWk/UlKDJ-C7H3I/AAAAAAAAAbE/vE9YQvnGwVg/s1600/DSC00023.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VxY8NhLYBWk/UlKDJ-C7H3I/AAAAAAAAAbE/vE9YQvnGwVg/w400-h300/DSC00023.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">My messy bedroom - Orchard Downs</span></td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We stayed at the <a href="http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/cmhdb-courtyard-columbus-dublin/" target="_blank">Courtyard Marriott in Dublin, Ohio</a>.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PQEKTzwUWBQ/UlKEYzDwcSI/AAAAAAAAAbc/40tmn4kUn4c/s1600/DSC00106.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PQEKTzwUWBQ/UlKEYzDwcSI/AAAAAAAAAbc/40tmn4kUn4c/w400-h300/DSC00106.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Courtyard Marriott, Dublin, Ohio</span></td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We stayed at <a href="http://www.clubquarters.com/loc_chicago.php" target="_blank">Club Quarters in Chicago</a>,
situated in downtown Chicago, where all the action is. What a thrill it was to
arrive in Chicago. We stayed on the top floor, and did not close our
curtains at night, as we wanted to see the tall lit-up buildings.
Chicago can be extremely cold, wet and windy. I never saw such smartly
dressed people, I did feel a bit under dressed. At night the club houses
and eateries come alive. </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">I had the tastiest and the biggest size of buffalo wings at <a href="http://www.andysjazzclub.com/" target="_blank">Andy’s Jazz Club</a>, and top entertainment to boot.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Chicago</span></td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b-RnZ8QYsuA/UlKFTgtZtnI/AAAAAAAAAbw/Tv-gVVkdXpg/s1600/DSC00273.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b-RnZ8QYsuA/UlKFTgtZtnI/AAAAAAAAAbw/Tv-gVVkdXpg/w400-h300/DSC00273.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Famous Chicago skyline</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K9SNGFoDgLw/UlKFTSeYGuI/AAAAAAAAAbs/YqPgYzP44xg/s1600/DSC00271.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K9SNGFoDgLw/UlKFTSeYGuI/AAAAAAAAAbs/YqPgYzP44xg/w300-h400/DSC00271.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">My icon </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lP-flFzwmS4/UlKFXqRCPYI/AAAAAAAAAb8/h-4FhXmZgFM/s1600/DSC00270.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lP-flFzwmS4/UlKFXqRCPYI/AAAAAAAAAb8/h-4FhXmZgFM/w300-h400/DSC00270.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Rounded circular parkade next to Trump Towers</span></td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7pyFCIpVixs/UlKGmKq8w3I/AAAAAAAAAcE/hjnkNUDsZQc/s1600/DSC00016.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7pyFCIpVixs/UlKGmKq8w3I/AAAAAAAAAcE/hjnkNUDsZQc/w400-h300/DSC00016.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">After two weeks in Illinois, the group parted and we all went our separate ways. I was the earliest one to depart as my flight was earlier than the others, but I ended up taking the same flight as theirs due to some flight booking bungle. I couldn't take a later flight as there were no later flights out to Ithaca - my next destination, and neither could I leave the next morning, as it would have disrupted all my other flight schedules. I had 10 minutes to catch a flight from Chicago to Detroit en route to Ithaca, and made it through this beautifully designed airport.</span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"></span><br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">My home away from home for the next two months, <span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.bestwesternuniversityinnithaca.com/" target="_blank">Best Western University Inn</a></span></span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">,
Ithaca – close to several eateries, a laundromat, a 24-hour grocery
store, a pharmacy, and bus stop, and free wifi. For the next two months, I was going to be at Cornell University stationed at <a href="https://mannlib.cornell.edu/" target="_blank">Mann Library</a>. I arrived at the Ithaca
Tompkins Regional Airport, minus main luggage. After several calls to
Delta, my luggage finally arrived the next day, but I had to fetch it myself!</span><br />
<br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">I did a four hour car journey with one of my Mann Library colleague to Albany for a conference. I remember how she talked the whole way through. We passed a lot of small interesting towns. I was quite impressed with her driving skills and she kept checking her cellphone for directions (it probably had a built in navigation app) We stayed at </span><a href="http://www.travelodge.com/hotels/new-york/albany/travelodge-inn-and-suites-albany/hotel-overview"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Travelogue Inn and Suites, Albany</span></a><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"> where we shared a room (real tacky motel style accommodation, just as you see in the movies, luckily the water ran out after I had a shower).</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-awZr5fxfxKg/UlKWLPFAv0I/AAAAAAAAAco/LMwotd8-duI/s1600/DSC00440.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-awZr5fxfxKg/UlKWLPFAv0I/AAAAAAAAAco/LMwotd8-duI/w400-h300/DSC00440.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Entrance to Best Western - my room on the right entrance</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B7e1lyfg_gY/UlKTv4zj2zI/AAAAAAAAAcg/afICPzQCLZ8/s1600/DSC00810.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B7e1lyfg_gY/UlKTv4zj2zI/AAAAAAAAAcg/afICPzQCLZ8/w400-h300/DSC00810.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Equestrian Centre - not far from where I was staying in Ithaca</span></td></tr>
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<br />
<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The group met up in San Francisco for a few days. We stayed at the <a href="http://www.sheratonatthewharf.com/" target="_blank">Sheraton Fisherman’s Wharf Hotel</a>,
close to Pier 39. Going over the Golden Gate Bridge on an open top bus,
and the cold wind over your hair, what an amazing moment! I had the
tastiest crab at the <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/crab-house-at-pier-39-san-francisco" target="_blank">Crab House</a>.
I arrived back from San Francisco late at night and called a cab to
take me to Best Western. I felt very uneasy travelling alone at night,
something we are not accustomed to in SA. The taxi driver also creeped me
out.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tGef--2chUk/UlKXKM_6C4I/AAAAAAAAAcw/qJ-_loaLJNM/s1600/DSC00448.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tGef--2chUk/UlKXKM_6C4I/AAAAAAAAAcw/qJ-_loaLJNM/w400-h300/DSC00448.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">San Francisco</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MlGyR4p4zmg/UlKXPNBJpzI/AAAAAAAAAc4/WM-8hPknb1I/s1600/DSC00458.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MlGyR4p4zmg/UlKXPNBJpzI/AAAAAAAAAc4/WM-8hPknb1I/w400-h300/DSC00458.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Alcatraz</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ciPSetEFYfc/UlKXUC0s60I/AAAAAAAAAdA/3SEzPFFo-J4/s1600/DSC00494.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ciPSetEFYfc/UlKXUC0s60I/AAAAAAAAAdA/3SEzPFFo-J4/w300-h400/DSC00494.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Golden Gate Bridge</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kcoWVPOueAY/UlKXbomd8EI/AAAAAAAAAdI/CSWNi6eI4H4/s1600/DSC00488.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kcoWVPOueAY/UlKXbomd8EI/AAAAAAAAAdI/CSWNi6eI4H4/w400-h300/DSC00488.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Beautiful architecture - SF</span></td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">
</span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">It was my second-to last week in the US
when I decided to take a trip to NYC which is a four hour drive from
Ithaca. I got up extremely early to catch a bus to spend a weekend
there. I remember walking from Best Western to the bus stop alone in the
dark, the silence only broken by the sound of my trolley case. The
luxury Cornell bus arrived promptly. What a feeling having arrived in
NYC, my dream destination, and seeing the famous skyline for the first
time. I remember walking the streets and taking the cab, and had to
pinch myself to make sure that this was real. I stayed at the <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-cornell-club-new-york" target="_blank">Cornell Club</a>, situated in Midtown Manhattan, the hub of Times Square and Broadway.</span> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-98laikFQ-rk/UlKTZj-jiXI/AAAAAAAAAcU/SlhTPSVj2Ic/s1600/DSC00801.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-98laikFQ-rk/UlKTZj-jiXI/AAAAAAAAAcU/SlhTPSVj2Ic/w400-h300/DSC00801.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Took the bus to NYC from here</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ntaXmIR0heI/UlKnpKyheGI/AAAAAAAAAd4/Z0ByGxAaWWY/s1600/DSC00757.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ntaXmIR0heI/UlKnpKyheGI/AAAAAAAAAd4/Z0ByGxAaWWY/w400-h300/DSC00757.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Cornell Club</span></td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">I got to see part of NYC using the
hop-on-hop-off bus. I walked to the Empire State building from my hotel
and was told that it was a few blocks away, but I had to walk past
several streets and got lost along the way. The view from the top was
mind-blowing though. I got cheap tickets for <i>Anything goes. </i>What a
slick performance that was. The last day in NYC, Monday morning, I
got up early to take my last walk down to Times Square, and I saw people
crowding around this building. On closer inspection, I saw cameras and
well-dressed people inside a studio. I could not believe it, Good
Morning America was being broadcast live from here. This is where their
studio is based. I even got a pic of myself with one of the good-looking
presenters.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Caught a show on Broadway</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Flagged a cab to hotel</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yr7VJESHsQE/UlOV8H6up0I/AAAAAAAAAeI/XmqeCYCEFDM/s1600/DSC00785.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yr7VJESHsQE/UlOV8H6up0I/AAAAAAAAAeI/XmqeCYCEFDM/w300-h400/DSC00785.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Got a pic with this dashing presenter of Good Morning America</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">View from Empire State Building</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Magnificent Metropolitan Museum of Art ... where I had my first lamb gyro</span></td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Travelling back to SA was a bit of drama at the airport. </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Our flight was delayed. </span>As I did not check in online with Delta (</span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Delta staff at Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport are not the friendliest of people),</span> I had to go through security checks twice, at Newark and Atlanta. This was quite a feat as I had several pieces of luggage to lug around. I had to take to a sky train at one of the airports. My luggage fell off the trolley, a guy helped me put it back on. When I arrived at OR Tambo, I got confused over my departure time, and panicked for nothing. This is what happens when you are jet lagged. </span><br />
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Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-56401332233239334232013-09-20T09:41:00.003-07:002024-03-28T00:20:19.784-07:00Seychelles (January 2012)<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Seychelles is a perfect tropical island holiday. And it is not only for romantics.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We flew Air Seychelles. We chose to stay on Praslin Island, and
we flew to this island on one of those small planes where we could see into the captain's
cabin, as there was no interleading door. Flying just above the sea,
one had a breath-taking view of the ocean.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--jLNdiRf-FE/Ujx1XcPrRzI/AAAAAAAAAX8/nMRq4EDpLJk/s1600/Pool+bar+area.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--jLNdiRf-FE/Ujx1XcPrRzI/AAAAAAAAAX8/nMRq4EDpLJk/w640-h480/Pool+bar+area.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The </span><a href="http://www.cocodemer.com/index.php" target="_blank"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Coco de Mer Hotel and Black Parrot Suites</span></a><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"> was going to be our accommodation for the next couple of days. It's a secluded beach resort with a good breakfast and supper. </span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JeWd2n5llFY/UjxqNX50zJI/AAAAAAAAAW8/TA8iVFuOWgM/s1600/Check+the+view.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JeWd2n5llFY/UjxqNX50zJI/AAAAAAAAAW8/TA8iVFuOWgM/w640-h480/Check+the+view.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The rooms were large, but there were ants everywhere, even in the fridge.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We used to go to Fisherman's Wharf before dinner everyday to watch the sunset.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We took a ferry to the islands of Victoria and La Digue. The ferry rides were extremely expensive. Seychelles is not a cheap destination. This island derives a fair portion of its revenue from tourism, and prices are highly inflated for tourists.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Quaint little house in La Digue</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Beautiful beach of Anse Lazio</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"> </span></td></tr>
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</div><p> <span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">This was a relaxing holiday, and we spent a week in the Seychelles.</span><br />
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</p>Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-27057201115003744132013-09-19T04:12:00.000-07:002024-03-28T00:18:56.155-07:00Far East (January 2006)<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Places that we chose to visit in this part of the world were Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. We flew Malaysia Airlines.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Upon arrival in Bangkok, the taxi driver took us through the shortest route to our hotel, the </span><a href="http://www.indrahotel.com/" target="_blank"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Indra Regent Hotel</span></a><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">. The
hotel is situated in bustling downtown Bangkok. From the reception area
one could view the activities taking place outside - a good way of
people watching. Breakfast was in an outdoor restaurant on a top
floor. Guests were warned not to take food out from the breakfast area
when they were leaving - how odd. Since it was my first taste of South
Asian cuisine, I sampled all that was laid out, and I enjoyed the
fried rice and noodles.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">View from hotel room at Indra Regent</span></td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We chose to stay at the </span><a href="http://www.hotelthailand.com/chiangmai/chiangmaiplaza/" target="_blank"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Chiang Mai Plaza Hotel</span></a><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"> as it was close to the night markets. Chiang Mai is more laid back and much more cooler than Bangkok - and we loved it here. We made friends with a Burmese waitress, and whenever we visited the restaurant where she worked, her face would light up, and we would be greeted with a very warm <i>Namaste.</i> At night, the area around the hotel was transformed into a bustling night market, with an assortment of handicrafts, shoes, jewellery and food on offer.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Chiang Mai night market</span></td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.theelizabeth.com.sg/" target="_blank"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The Elizabeth Hotel</span></a><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">, our accommodation in Singapore was close to Orchard Road. If you're big on brand labels then this is the place to stay. I also had my first taste of dim sum here. We stayed here during the Chinese New Year celebrations. It is an official holiday, so everything shuts down for the day, which is not good for tourists.</span> <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Chinese New Year</span></td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We had a good view of the Petronas Twin Towers from our room at the <a href="http://www.dorsettregency-kl.com/" target="_blank">Dorsett Regency</a></span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">. Thank goodness we saw the roaches the night before we could leave.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We climbed all those stairs</span></td></tr>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The night before we could leave the lights went out in the hotel. Luckily it came on in the morning so we could retrieve our passports from the hotel room safe. At the airport a man approached hubby to check in some of his luggage, as he obviously brought in more that he was allowed to carry. Luckily hubby refused.</span><br />
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<br />Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-46215274239053852742013-09-18T00:21:00.003-07:002024-03-27T23:59:20.851-07:00Mauritius (January 2005)<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Mauritius is only a four hour flight from Johannesburg, and as soon as you arrive at the airport, you can already smell the ocean air. We flew Air Mauritius.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We stayed at the </span><a href="http://www.paul-et-virginie.hotels-in-mauritius.eu/" target="_blank"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Paul and Virginie Hotel</span></a><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">.
After a long taxi ride it was a relief to come to a clean and
comfortable room. We arrived late at night, and only when we got up the
next morning, did we realise that our hotel room was situated almost on
the beach. It was such a pleasure to get up to the sound of water and
to watch the fishermen setting off for their catch of the day.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The breakfast was excellent, with a wide array of jams that included mango and coconut. There was also a wide selection to choose from for dinner.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cdg_qiX8y98/UjlQBcwbrRI/AAAAAAAAAVA/djJ0pXkiKsg/s1600/Coconut+tree.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cdg_qiX8y98/UjlQBcwbrRI/AAAAAAAAAVA/djJ0pXkiKsg/w241-h400/Coconut+tree.PNG" width="241" /></a></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We hired a taxi driver throughout our trip, as opposed to taking the taxis outside the hotel. As soon as we stepped outside the hotel we were accosted by the taxi mafia who wanted to offer us their service. </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We decided to go to Grand Baie as we heard that it was a good place to hang out. Our taxi driver was going to pick us up after a few hours. But much to our disappointment it was not, and we walked for hours in the heat looking for a pay phone (we did not own a cell phone back then). Eventually somebody offered to phone our taxi driver for us We were so relieved!</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We also visited Port Louis and walked around the markets and the malls. We had a scrumptious biryani here.</span><br />
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Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-27583354070191643552013-09-13T00:55:00.002-07:002024-03-27T23:51:37.818-07:00Victoria Falls (January 2001)<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We still had places to visit in Africa and chose Victoria Falls as our next destination. We chose to stay at the </span><a href="http://www.places.co.za/accommodation/the-zambezi-sun.html" target="_blank"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Zambezi Sun</span></a><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">, this was when it had newly opened.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">This hotel is a mere two minutes
walk from Victoria Falls. As a guest of this hotel you have free access
to the falls. If you want to stay in luxury, then the </span><a href="http://www.suninternational.com/fallsresort/royal-livingstone/restaurants/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Royal Livingstone Hotel</span></a><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">
is the place. This hotel is situated on the banks of the Zambezi
River and is furnished with exquisite colonial style décor. We took a
walk here one day and saw hippos wallowing in the river.</span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The falls is truly spectacular. However, we did not get rained under, as the falls was not in full flow. Walking to the falls was quite an experience as you passed through lush greenery, and from a distance you could hear the thunderous roar of the falls. We're not the adventurous type, so we just watched the bungee jumping taking place from Victoria Falls bridge. </span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We did attempt one of the steep trails, and we came very close to completing it, but the sight of a pack of baboons at the end of the trail sent us scurrying back up.</span> <br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">The only downside to staying at this hotel is that you are forced to eat at the hotel restaurants, as there aren't any other restaurants close by. Eating at hotel restaurants can be pricey.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Taking a cruise along the Zambezi River is well worth the experience. We took a sunset cruise </span><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">on the </span><a href="http://www.livingstonesadventure.com/#/Victoria-Falls-Livingstone-Zambia-Princess-Cruises/" target="_blank"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">African Queen</span></a>, that included a light supper. I remember us being so hungry and eating whatever there was to offer.</span><br />
<br />Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1048731693778237543.post-48922310961683336512013-09-10T05:09:00.000-07:002024-03-27T23:57:53.512-07:00Zanzibar (January 2000)<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">As well as being known for its beautifully pristine beaches, Zanzibar is also steeped in history. We chose our accommodation in Stone Town, the historical centre of Zanzibar. This holiday did not pan out as we thought it would.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We flew Air Tanzania. When we landed at the airport, the taxi
driver who was supposed to pick us up did not pitch. We had to take the
local taxi, but we managed to reach the hotel without getting ripped
off. We only realised later that the locals live a very laid back
lifestyle here. Their favourite catchphrase is <i>hakuna matata</i> meaning "no problem." </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Our hotel, the </span><a href="http://www.suntoursznz.com/Hotels-Stonetown/cocodemer-zanzibar.htm" target="_blank"><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">Coco de Mer</span></a><span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"> was surrounded by all these crumbly buildings, and our room had a tatty bathroom. Water was shut off at any time of day. We had visions of this being our holiday in hell.</span></div>
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">This notion was soon dispelled as we started to explore Stone Town. We came across beautifully decorated wooden doors, many historical treasures, hidden lanes and markets. I also had a deliciously spicy biryani at the Neem Tree Café. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana";"></span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">We discovered the Forodhani Gardens, which was just a stones throw away from the hotel. Once the sun set, this garden was transformed into a food market, with chefs whipping up all kinds of dishes, from seafood to pancakes. While we were tempted to savour some of these dishes, we did not, as we were not sure about the hygiene. </span><br />
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<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">We took a day trip to Nungwe beach, which was not very far away from our hotel, but because the roads were so bad, it took us at least four hours to get there and back.</span></span></span><br />
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<span face=""helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: small;">T<span face=""verdana" , sans-serif">here were a lot of South Africans on the flight back home, and the women looked so tanned and refreshed. The heat had got to me, and I could see it in my overly tanned self. As we had just started travelling, we didn't know much about sun protection. Our plane was delayed for a short while, and when it took off I remember it almost plunging for a few seconds, but it came up again.</span></span></span><br />
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Shahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08179772864683468252noreply@blogger.com0