Train days

08/12/11-12/12/11

Not a lot to be said for my day joining the train, I’m so use to the procedure now that it’s like catching an aeroplane and having to sit through the familiar safety briefing time after time – read/eat/sleep

I arrived the next day at midday in Adelaide (that rhymes!). Unlike last time when I arrived to find the supermarkets were closed this time there were no problems in picking up food.

The one place I didn’t get to visit the last time was the Adelaide Hills so on Saturday I decided to jump on a bus and go explore this area. I first took the bus all the way to Handoff, an old German settlement. It still retains an atmosphere of its old colonial roots although this is mainly only kept alive for the tourist trade. After I headed back in the direction of the city to trek up to the top of Mount Lofty to check out the views of the surroundings, picking an area without an established walking track I had to use the main road for half the trek. That evening the hostel I was staying at was celebrating its one year anniversary so we were treated to a hog roast that evening – all 240kg of it!

For my last full day in Adelaide I mainly relaxed and visited the main sights for the last time grabbing some photos of stuff I missed the last time I was here.

Time to travel back in the right direction to resume my travels around Australia; I had my last train journey using my rail pass. It was a long 10 hours back to Melbourne, the third time I had had to do this journey. When I arrived I had a short walk to my hostel located in the north of the city centre, it is one of the biggest in OZ with over 800 people staying in it at one time. My main task was to send a birthday text home back to my sister – the first birthday of hers that I had missed.

Launceston

29/11/11-01/11/11

Time to move north, having exhausted Hobart I jumped on a coach up to Tasmania’s second city Launceston where I was catching my return flight to Melbourne a few days later. The trip only took less than three hours so having left in the afternoon I arrived just before the evening had set in.

The next day I went to explore the town but found it was just the same as Hobart really, nothing of note to see. Instead I dragged myself around the local art and history museum, the latter being housed in an old railway depot. A welcome surprise I found was that the local park a group of red faced macaques which were a gift from Japan.

With the sun shining I went to hike around Launceston’s main tourist attraction – Cataract Gorge. This huge natural feature has several walking tracks so you can walk along its path. If you fancy there’s a chairlift that spans across the gorge. Instead I spent the morning hiking around the available tracks. Along the way I crossed several suspense bridges as well as visited the old hydroelectricity station. On one path along the top of the gorge I happened to bump into a kangaroo with baby joey in tow and a small spikey ant eater called a Q, bit more interesting than some of the wildlife you would see on walks back home. In the afternoon I walked along the Inveresk trail next to the history museum.

Hobart

23/11/11-28/11/11

After a hard night’s sleep on a wooden bench I was finally able to check-in my pack and jump on my flight to Hobart. After just an hour we had touched down in Tasmania, I was now under down under. By the time I had got to the hostel it was only just 9 in the morning so while I waited for my room to be ready I popped down to the shops to gather some supplies. In the afternoon I explored around the town and visited the history museum which is in the middle of restoration works. With the day dragging along due to my early start I had an early night to recharge my batteries.

With the sun shining (while storms where occurring on the mainland) I followed the suggested walking tour in my lonely planet guide. This took me through the centre of town, down by the docks and along to the homes of Battery Point. In the afternoon I went to the penitentiary chapel which is owned by the local natural trust to take part in the tour through this former chapel, prison and law courts.

With the weather still holding I decided to jump on a local bus and make my way to Fern Tree to the starting point of the tracks that lead up Mount Wellington. After picking up a map from the local store I set out to tackle the steep climb to the top. It was not easy going, most of the paths where rocky tracks where the surface was very uneven, to your side the ground fell away. After several stops along the way and much puffing and panting I was relieved to reach the summit. It was worth the climb for the views which stretched on for miles, you could see all the way around. I had my lunch at the top before once again setting off to retrace my steps back down to where I started. Of course for those who want the easier route a road leads right up to the summit – but where’s the challenge it that? Not surprisingly I was certainly worn out that evening.

On a wet and cold day I had my first Oz tour to the convict settlement of Port Arthur to take part in the evening ghost tour. Along the way we stopped off at Richmond, a quiet little town which is home to the oldest continually used bridge in Australia. We also visited several sights of natural wonder, including sea caves and blowholes. On arriving at Port Arthur we had a few hours during the afternoon to do a quick tour of the site in the day light before we joined our ghost tour that evening. On the tour we were led by our story teller who lead us to varies sights in the grounds where ghosts had been spotted before telling us the experiences who those who have seen them. Our only light came from three lanterns that where held by varies members of our group. Each ghost he told us about had been reported seen by three different people in the same location three times. It was an engaging experience and you are certainly drawn in by the stories you are told, unfortunately though we didn’t experience anything that night but I really enjoyed myself, would definitely do something like that again.

After several days rushing round I decided to just take it easy so had a rest day, the only I did venture out for was to visit the Botanical Gardens to read my kindle in the sun for a few hours.

On my last full day in Hobart I spent the morning sorting out several issues such as transport for future trips. I had received the good news that I had been offered accommodation in Sydney for Christmas and New Year’s so I now know roughly where I was going to be for the rest of my time in Oz, this was especially useful with school holidays fast approaching, and I could now make sure I had everything sorted. In the afternoon I popped into town to visit the maritime museum and took a walk along to Sandy Bay where people have their yachts moored.

Overland

21/11/11-22/11/11

An early start as I made my way to the train station to board the Overland to Melbourne. The journey would take 10 hours so I mainly spent the time on board either reading or having a snooze. It was a different landscape we passed compared to the outback I had travelled through on the Indian Pacific, here farmers’ fields stretched out into the distance. My hostel in Melbourne was just 5 minutes from the train station so after settling in for my one night’s stay I took a quick stroll to the centre of the city before feeling the weight of the days travels I returned to bed.

My flight to Hobart the next day was in the early morning so tonight I would be sleeping at the airport. I mainly filled the time by doing laundry, visiting some of the sights of the city including Federation Square and doing the last preparation to send birthday and Christmas cards home. I tried not to see too much as I knew I would be coming back to Melbourne to explore it probably in a few weeks’ time. After delaying for as long as possible I made my way to the airport where I soon settled in for the night to try and catch some sleep if it was at all possible.

Adelaide

16/11/11-20/11/11

On my first full day in Adelaide I carried on from where I kicked off yesterday by visiting the migration museum in the morning. While I was in there a group of Australians were also looking round at the same time, it was interesting to listen to the stories of how their families came to be down under – most certainly seemed proud to have convicts in their families! During the afternoon I strolled to the Oval cricket ground before enjoying the sun while wondering next to the river, following its course till it took me to the botanical gardens while I stopped off to read my book in the afternoon sun.

The next day I jumped on the tram and rode it till the end of the line to Glenelg, which is situated right on the western coast. Whilst there I took a stroll along the beach, after the warm seas I experienced in Asia its back to the cold ones unfortunately. Glenelg turned out to be quite beautiful, it was I shame I hadn’t brought a towel along to enjoy the beach further.
Another day another location as I went to visit Port Adelaide, despite being a heritage zone almost no money has unfortunately been spent on the area, though finally the local government is starting to invest in the area. Although the area is full of historic buildings there really wasn’t a lot to see, so after visiting the maritime museum and climbing the lighthouse I decided to head back to the city centre.

Saturday turned out to be a shopping day. I spent most of the morning in and out of the shops along Rundle Mall and those inside the Central Market. I treated myself to an early Christmas present – a Kindle. As with everything in Oz book prices are almost three times the price of the UK, even second hand books cost more than brand new ones back home. Added that selections in hostels are poor I just wanted to be able to read something that I would enjoy hence purchasing a Kindle – plus saves me having to carry bulky books around! In the afternoon with the weather being slightly cooler I decided to take a proper hike along the river. With one eye on Taz and New Zealand I need to start getting ready for doing some tramping, so I blew a few cobwebs out of the system by challenging myself to walk at my usual fast pace. I was happy to find out that I was still up to pace.

My last full day in Adelaide turned out to be sunny but with a cold breeze. With it being a Sunday I took it easy and just visited some of the areas I hadn’t seen before whilst stopping off to relax in different locations. Tomorrow I would be jumping on the Overland to make the 10 hour trip to Melbourne. Unfortunately due to there being no availability on the Ghan for two weeks I couldn’t head immediately up to Alice Springs as I had planned to. Rather than wasting time waiting for the train in Adelaide I instead booked flights to visit Tasmania from Melbourne during the gap. This would mean I would have to head south before heading north to once again head south – not ideal but with an unlimited rain pass I was stuck with what was available with that company. One thing was for sure I would be clocking up the miles over the next three weeks.

Indian Pacific

13/11/11-15/11/11

It was time to leave the West coast behind as I began my 41 hour train journey to Adelaide in South Australia. The journey would take me through one of the harshest environments in the world, the great Australian outback. We had several stop-offs along the way, the first was the gold town of Kalgoorlie that evening. Arriving near to mid-night on Sunday, the town was eerily quiet as everyone was safely tucked up in bed. After a brief walk round I ventured back to the train to try and get some sleep. My seat and bed for the journey was a reclining seat which wasn’t too uncomfortable, the only problem was I had to have my feet on the floor so there was aching joints in the morning.

The next day as we passed through the outback a variety of wildlife could be seen including emus, eagles, kangaroos and camels. Surprising it was quite green outside due to the recent fall of rain, usually the orange sand and rock dominates the landscape. Our stop off today to refuel was at a town called Cook, literally in the middle of nowhere. With the privatisation of the railway the town as slowly shrink with only 4 people now living there. Here the price of water per litre is the same price as fuel due to the remote location. We were allowed to wonder round the ruins of the town which once had a school and hospital. After half an hour we were back on the way to Adelaide, that day we officially passed from the West to the South.

Our trip officially came to an end the next day when we pulled into Adelaide woodland railway station in the early morning. Jumping on the express bus I was soon at my new hostel just off King William Street. I first needed to find supplies including a new towel as I discovered I left my mine at the last hostel – no way was I going back for that! In the afternoon I popped into the SA Museum and the art gallery before making my way back to the hostel to cook dinner and grab some needed sleep.

Freo

09/11/11 – 12/11/11

Leaving the main city behind I jump on the train to make the short journey to Fremantle or ‘Freo’ as it is known to the locals. Located nearer to the Indian Ocean, Freo is the main port along the coast in this part of Western Australia. When I arrived my hostel wasn’t ready yet so I dropped off my pack before going to grab a snack for lunch. Later after checking in I made a quick visit to the Army Museum of Western Australia to have a look at the exhibits there. While travelling across Asia I visited many sites and countries where Australian Commonwealth troops had fought and died so it was interesting to learn some of the history behind the conflicts and special operations. This was also the first day in Oz that I went to the supermarket to stock up on supplies to cook my own food, that nights meal was simply pasta in sauce.

The next day there were two main places of interest I want to visit the first being the WA Maritime Museum which contained the American cup winning sail boat, Elizabeth II. The main reason for my visit was to go inside the HMAS Ovens, a post second world war submarine which is in dry dock behind the main museum building. I think I had already been inside this class of submarine before at Chatham dockyards but it was interesting to hear tales from a guide who had actually worked in the sub when it was active. After I made my way across town to do some time behind bars as I entered Fremantle Prison, a convict built prison that was still in use up to 1991 before it was closed down due to the lack of conditions deeded suitable for prisons human rights. This was due to the prison have no plumbed toilets in its cells so prisoners had to use buckets, although this is still common in most prisons in England. That night before dinner I made a quick visit to the nearby beach to watch the sunset on the horizon.

Remembrance Day – In the morning I paid a quick visit to the war memorial on top of the hill looking over Fremantle to see the preparations for a ceronmery later that morning to remember those who had fought to save their and others countries. At 11 o’clock the last post was played as a single jet fighter flew overhead. In the afternoon I popped in to see the Shipwreck Museum which houses artefacts from a series of Dutch trading ships which met their end off the coast of Perth. Nearby was the Roundhouse, the first convict built structure in Freo. Later I visited the local markets before venturing to the park to read my book to the afternoon sun.

On my last full day in Western Australia I took things easy as I got prepared for my long train journey to Adelaide, I basically repeated my afternoon from the previous day as I visited the local markets once again before heading to the park to relax on the sloped grass.

Land down under

06/11/11 – 08/11/11

After an overnight stay at Bangkok airport where I slept on the marble floor of departures, I boarded my Thai Airways flight to Perth. I was in for a shock when I landed. After seven weeks backpacking around Asia I had got use to hostel life out there, going out and buying all your meals, having someone do your laundry for you etc. Out in Australia this is all different of course as prices are more in line with what we pay at home due to the low exchange rate. Also the major difference out here is that people come to Oz to work so for them hostels are there homes for months at a time rather than for a few days. With hardly any sleep in over a 24 hours period the realisation of this hit me almost straight away when I walked through the hostel door in Perth. My first week was going to be a hard lesson in learning to change my routine.

After a well needed night’s sleep I ventured out the next day to explore the city at large sticking to the walking route suggested in my Lonely Planet guidebook. This led me up to King’s Park, a large series of gardens located on a bluff near to the city centre; from here I had great panoramic views of the surrounding country. Later that evening I met up with two of the people who had been on my Indochina Tour as they had just landed in Perth that day, to get into the Oz spirit we went out in the rain to buy some goon (boxed wine – traveller’s cheap drink) and catch up on what had happened since we last saw each over.

With a slight hangover the next day I once again when to explore the city, first I ventured into the National Western Australia Museum which surprisingly had an exhibition from the British Museum on at the time. It featured objects from around the world which told stories of our past, almost all of them where rare finds such as the old object ever found – a simply hand tool. With mixed weather I read that a nearby island had Joey’s on it so I went to explore not expecting to see much as rain was moving in, but luckily I did manage to catch a glimpse of two sheltering in nearby bushes.

One of the biggest shocks I have found out is that in some hostels you have to pay for the internet including wireless. So needing to hit the web I visited Peterpan’s, a travel agency which caters for backpackers where you can surf the internet for free. Here I bought an unlimited rail card on the three main train routes which cross the country as my means to travel rather than flying everywhere and missing out on seeing the local scenery. I decided that on the coming Sunday I would make my first journey to Adelaide to set myself up for a trip to see Ayres rock.

Singapore - Goodbye Asia

04/11/11

Today I decided to spend the day learning about the history of the island, mainly involving the events that occurred during the Second World War when the British surrendered to the opposing Japanese forces in 1942. I first headed to the Battle Box in Fort Canning Park; this underground bunker system was the primary headquarters for all the operations in the Malaya area. It was here where the notion of surrender was first brought up. Next I headed south to visit Fort Siloso which saw action during the conflict. To round off my day I lastly went to visit Kranji war memorial and war graves which is the final resting place for many serving soldiers and volunteers who lost their lives during that period. With this being my only full day in Singapore in the evening I decided to take a stroll along the quay side to see the skyline lit up. While wondering along a discovered an Indian dance festival was taking place.

05/11/11

This was to be my last full day in Asia before I move onto Australia. I think this is now my new favourite part of the world – great food, friendly people and stunning scenery. With a flight back to Bangkok in the evening I went to visit the Quay side again to grab some photos and explore more of the surrounding area. I discovered a 7 side international rugby event was happening on the cricket green. Moving back towards the direction of my hostel I stumbled upon the National Museum to find out it had an exhibition of paintings from the Musee D’Orsay Paris on show including Van Gogh’s Starry Night, it worth it just for that painting.

Asian Favourites

Below is a list of some of my favourites in Asia:
• Favourite country: In the end little Laos stole my heart; I’m so surprised this country isn’t more widely known.
• Favourite food: Hard to choose but for me Vietnam just came out on top.
• Favourite capital city: Has to be Hanoi, the mixture of new and old and the general pace of the city.
• Favourite scenery: Look no further than Laos with its topical forests and mountains which burst out of the ground like razors.
• Favourite people: The people of Cambodia take this easily - Always smiling, polite and super friendly. Never in a bad mood.
• Favourite place: Georgetown, Penang. A world heritage protected area and you can see why they would want to preserve it, like taking a step back in time.
• Least favourite country: Thailand I’m afraid – just too plain old dirty for me. Didn’t feel like it had its own identity.

Malaysia

30/10/11 – 02/11/11

After my unexpected overnight stay in Hat Yai I finally made it to Penang in Malaysia. Arriving in the afternoon I tried to Skype back home completely forgetting that the clocks had gone back an hour where as I had gone an hour ahead. That evening I went for a stroll around the town in the rain after grabbing some dinner from the huge shopping complex under the Komtar Tower.

The next day I went on my own walking tour of Georgetown, a protected world heritage site. Here is a list of some of the sites I visited:
• Town/city hall
• Fort Comwallis
• Queen Victoria clock tower
• Penang state museum
• Goddess of Mercy temple
• Mahamarianman temple
• Cheah Kongsi
• Khoo Kongsi
• Little India

That afternoon I caught a bus to the bottom of Penang hill before taking the hill train to the top to get some panoramic views of the island and city.
With me liking Penang so much I decided to stay an extra day to see some more sights in the area including Wat Chayamang Kalarm, the Burmese temple and the Botanic gardens (where I attempted to climb up to see the waterfalls but gave up after 40 minutes).

The next day I jumped on a coach to Kuala Lumpar, with me staying an extra day in Penang I only had the afternoon to do a bit of sightseeing in the city so I headed to the KL Tower to get some raised views of the city. There I bumped into a fellow Brit who I arrived to meet that evening to grab some dinner in the China Town area.

03/11/11 – 04/11/11

Another day another coach journey as I made my way to Singapore, the last new country I would be visiting in Asia on my RTW trip. Everything was going fine until I got to Singapore immigration where we had to disembark our coach to get checked into the country. At this point there were only 3 passengers left on the coach including myself. I filled out my immigration card before going to see the custom official to get check in. After I had to put my backpack through an x-ray machine before I quickly went to the loo before the final leg of our journey to Lavender Hill bus station. But on arriving in the coach parking area I couldn’t see my transport anywhere, I run up and down the platform checking to see if it was there – no sign of it. Asking another bus operator I was simply told that the coach had already left; cue an outburst of swearing from me. After waiting half hour to see if it hadn’t got simply held up in customs I knew it was true it had already left.
The main problem was I had no local currency on me due to having only just entered the country so my first mission was to find an ATM. After talking to a security guard I was pointed towards a shopping complex nearby so I quickly dashed over to find a series of ATM machines – relief! With money in my hand I boarded a local bus to the nearest metro station, not the stress I was expecting to find that day.

Asian Impressions - First Draft

Some Asian impressions from what I have experienced so far:

• Horns Blazing – A common sound out here as horns are used all the time to warn other road users your either: About to pass, want them to move, let them know your there, move animals out of the way, to show your annoyance at other people’s driving.
• Chop sticks – The only instruments you need to eat food out here, maybe a spoon sometimes when soup is involved.
• Spitting – If you don’t see people doing it you’ll certain hear them when they do, a common occurrence.
• Rich paddies – The main crop grown out here, in England you have green fields pass you by as you drive through the countryside, out here its rice paddies stretching for miles either side.
• Flood water – Maybe not a common sight, but this natural problem has followed me around Asia.
• Conical hats –Not just a tourist product, but the headwear of most workers who are out in the fields all day.
• People swatting – Not just over toilets but a general position most Asians adopt whether waiting out in the street or eating at home. Warning to Westerners – do not attempt to copy, we just aren’t built to hover our bums in the air.
• Mosquitos – Don’t think you wouldn’t get bitten because you will at some point; legs are especially tasty to these annoying creatures.
• Blocked pavements – In the west these are designed so you don’t have to walk in the street, out here there seen as an extension of your living room/shop/restaurant and just somewhere to park your bike – not to be walked on apparently!
• Potted roads – When it rains constantly for six months a year you expect the roads to suffer a little, well maybe quite a bit, expect your body to take a pounding when you less expect it. Smooth roads quickly become rally stages.
• Bikes – There everywhere, out here two wheels is the way to go.
• Stunning scenery – You’ll find some of the best driving roads out here. Just when you think you seen it all, the views around the next corner will once again blow you away.
• Tall narrow buildings – Best examples are in Vietnam where nearly every building has a narrow front but will be long and tall, this is due to the way land is sold.

Karon beach

25/10/11-28/10/11

A change of scenery as I moved to the west coast of the island for a few days to Karon beach, the resort just below the infamous one of Patong. My plan here was just to relax for a few days and that’s exactly what I did. My daily routine whilst here was to wake up late before heading down to the beach to spend the afternoon relaxing on a bed under an umbrella. The sand here is white and makes an audible squeaking noise when you walk on it, whilst the sea is clear and shallow so you can walk quite far out. In the evenings I took a walk along the front just to get some exercise. On the first night I lightning storm was happening in the distance over the sea so I stop off to watch its display whilst in the background there was the constant noise of the waves breaking.

My only problem was the on-going flood situation in Bangkok which was getting worst every day. When on Thursday the city was told to evacuate certain areas I tried desperately to delay my flight to Bangkok without any success, in the end I decided to ditch the flight and change my travel plans. With Bangkok turning into a no go zone I instead decided to travel down to Singapore to catch a flight from there before I head to Perth. My last week in Asia wouldn’t be spent in Thailand as I originally planned, I going to go to two new countries instead!

Phuket

23/10/11-24/10/11

23: With Bangkok under the threat of flooding I decided early on in Chiang Mai to escape for a few days to one of Thailand’s islands so I could hit a beach. With limited flight options from the local airport I ventured out today to Phuket, the largest of Thailand's islands. I had booked myself a couple of nights stay in the main town to muse over where I wanted to go.

That night I found a nice street bar to watch some football, the first time I've had a chance to see Spurs play since leaving home. It wasn't until I went to the toilet that I started to doubt by choice of bar. After going inside through some glazed doors I opened the toilet door to be greeted by the sight of two men being massaured by the sinks, one was having his back cracked while the other was being stretched out. I quickly went about my business and before dashing out of the door. Outside I turned to look at the name of the joint, turns out it was called Fantasia. A local online guide states the following:

Fantasia

This is another quintessentially Thai place, complete with extremely attractive and skimpily dressed dancing girls in a pretty good floor show, flashing lights, expensive drinks and a slight air of seediness. Be prepared to pay more here – for company, drinks and 'friendship'. All in all, this is a whole lot more entertaining than your typical Go-Go bar in Patong.

At least I had picked a classy place to watch the football! It sums up Thailand perfectly though, this place is just pure filth.

24: With nothing planned for the day I did what most people do when they arrive in Phuket, I visited some of the beaches. I stuck with the east coast so I first jump on the local bus to Chalong but after jumping off I found that there was hardly any beach there. I quickly move further along down to Rawai beach which I discovered is mainly use to transport tourist to neighbouring islands, so far not what I was expecting to find. I just wanted to find somewhere where I could park up for the day. Dissappointed I headed back to town safe in the knowledge that I was moving the next day to Karon on the west coast of the island. Hopefully I would find what I was looking for there.

Chiang Mai

18/10/11 – 22/10/11

18-20: On route to Chiang Mai we stop off at the White Temple, one of the most unique temples in the world due to its artistic decoration. Last day of my tour with Gap (now known as G-Adventures) so we have a final meal at the coupon place in the Night Bazaar before a few drinks at a local bar. The next day I transfer to a hostel and go to see Thai boxing in the evening. This is followed up on the 20th with me visiting some of the local temples here – Wat Jediluang, Wat Chiangmun. After I have a quick walk through the local China Town here where straight away you can see the difference in culture.

21: I have a day trip to the Elephant Nature Park (ENP). Instead of going elephant riding at another attraction I instead choose to visit the ENP because here they rescue injured or rejected animals and give them some much need care and attention, and most importantly love. On arriving we are first taken to see two elephants which have been injured by land mines in Burma. You can clearly see the damage they have suffered as they can only put weight on three legs. One had its ankle blow off while the other lost its toe. We have a quick chance to feed them before we head back to the main building to feed some of the other elephants. After feeding its bath time so we each grab a bucket before heading down to the river which runs alongside the sanctuary, time to get wet. As the elephants step in we all join in to throw water over them to help them cool off in the hot weather. Then we grab our own lunch before we have another chance to meet other residents here where the process is repeated. We are also shown a video about the work done here and the ritual elephants have to go through so they are made submissive to work. I have had a great day and am happy I choose to go somewhere where these massive creatures are being helped.

22: Another animal day as I head to Chiang Mai zoo further out of town to hopefully see pandas. My mission is successful and I get to see 3 of only 35 pandas outside of China. Disappointed that they are all asleep I head for the exit but am stopped in my tracks by the sound of raised voices behind me as one decides its food time and wakes up to feed. They are big creatures and its surprising how man-like their movements are, they are also very fussy eaters. That evening I head out with the last member of my tour group who stuck around the same as me for one last meal. Been a bit of a sad week as I have mostly only said goodbye to people, a chance in scenery is needed.

Mekong River

14/10/11 – 17/10/11

14-15: Stayed in Luang Prabang (Laos). Lovely town next to the Mekong River, classic architecture, feels a lot like Hoi An but not so touristy. During my stay I visited Wat Tham Phu a temple on top of the only hill in town, great views of the local surroundings. Also visited the Night Market which runs through the centre of town, a massive market which sells all sorts of gifts, I pick up a monk painting made on special local paper.

16-17: Board a Slow Boat as we make a two day journey to the Thai border along the Mekong River, which I have come across before on my travels. We have an overnight stay in Pak Beng, a small riverside town with only one bar. Here I eat Buffalo and tried the local rice wine – Lao Lao. End up visiting the only bar which we turn into a nightclub. The next day after a 10 hour boat journey we reach Chiang Khong (Thailand) where we have to perform a water border crossing.

Blog changes

As you can tell I have fallen behind with my blog already. Due to not having the time to do updates every day I am now going to do weekly summaries of what I have done in weekly segments. If I feel there are any worth well stories to post I will accordingly along with lists of travel related stuff.

Mount Doom

13/10/11

Today was to be the best day so far of my travels, and one of the best experiences of my life.

I and one other of the group had booked up yesterday to take part in a full day of trekking and kayaking. As we were dropped off at our starting place we discovered that it was only us two and a guide that would be doing this particular activity, others were booked in to do different stuff. The first half of the day would involve trekking through the surrounding mountains up to a waterfall before stopping off to have a BBQ dinner. But to start our trek we first had to cross one of the scariest bridges in the world. It spanned across the Mekong River and was simply a narrow wire bridge with bamboo as decking, not too bad until you actually had to cross it. Baring in mind that people are shorter out here I soon discovered that the guide wire across the side of the bridge was at knee level for me forcing me to have to adopt a crouching position, a slight hindrance. As I started crossing behind an elderly local women who was heading to harvest the rice paddies the next problem became apparent, this bridge wasn’t level. The further I moved out the more the bridge began to lean to the right hand side, resulting in the elderly woman upfront to start shouting out probably to tell me to stop rocking the bridge! As a result I slowed down to let her cross without me making the trip any harder for her but the leaning problem was only getting worst, it was now leaning at more than a 45 degree angle. To compensate I shifted my weight more to the left hand side but this didn’t approve things. To make matters even worst over half way through the bamboo decking starting to disappear literally as giant gaps appeared in front of me. What remain of the bamboo had either fallen off or was simply broken with only the bamboo on the leaning right hand side in a reasonably sound condition. Never less I eventually made it to the other side surprised that I hadn’t fallen into the river, not the sort of start I expected!

Next we made our way through the rice paddies to the foot of the mountains before beginning our first ascent up rocks which had fallen down during a landslide at some point, halfway we stopped off to look into a cave which we might try and make our way through later, although no one had been able to go through it yet due to the water level inside. At the top we got our first view across the valley below and saw where the waterfall we were heading to was located but to get there we had to descend to ground level again before climbing up a mountain on the other side of a farm full of cattle and water buffalo. After another ascent we finally find the river that was the result of the waterfall and so switching to my sandals we started to wade our way upstream to find our target. Eventually we arrived at the base of the waterfall were after a quick dip we had a BBQ lunch with the sound of rushing water around us. Out in the mountains you quickly realise how much larger things in nature are, leafs on plants are huge and bugs and insects are bigger than the ones you normally see.

After lunch it was time to make our return back down to the river to board our kayak. To get there faster the guide suggested we took a look at a cave system that went under the mountain, apparently done to water levels inside no one had been able to pass through it that year but he suggested we had a look anyway. Unprepared for this no one had thought to bring a flash light with them so on the way our guide pick up some dry bamboo to which we could fashion some torch to provide light. Stepping down we eventually found the entrance to the cave, all around us you could hear the roar of flowing water and the few rays of light that entered shine off the water vapour in the air. At this point looking into the pitch blackness I thought this was a silly thing to do, but our guide never less soon had the bamboo lit and with him ready to lead the way we grab our makeshift torches and adventured into the darkness. The whole situation felt like it had come straight from an Indiana Jones movie, with us up to our knees in water crouching low with the only light coming from the burning bamboo, to me it felt like proper exploring. Eventually after about 15 minutes and with our bamboo nearly exhausted, we finally saw sunlight pouring through our exit to the cave. Once out high-fives were handed out all round, the only bad thing that had happen was take I found I had picked up an unwelcome guest in the form of a leech which was fasten to my foot!

We now had a long trek to pick up our kayaks from further down the river but this was to be a pleasant stroll through the rice paddies where workers were getting ready to harvest their crop. Throughout this section we walked along the base of the mountains and were able to just enjoy Laos’s stunning scenery. But the atmosphere soon c hanged as we neared the river again as modern pop tunes filled the air; we had come to the start point of the notorious tubing here in Vangvieng. Most travellers flock to this part to take part in the tubing, which basically involves you hiring out a rubber ring which you use to flow down the river while all along bars on the riverbank try to pull you in buy drinks and party. After the beautiful sights we had seen that day, it was a shame to see people getting drunk and listening to loud music whilst out in the adjoining fields local people were busy at work harvesting their crops in full sight of it. Anyway for us our kayak session was to be a non-stop ride down the river back to the town taking just over an hour. For me it had been one of the best experiences in my life, a struggle at sometimes but never less a rewarding one. And to round off a prefect day that evening a lighting storm passed over the town before making its way over the mountains. In the pitch darkness every lighting strike laminated the shape of the mountains, an engrossing sight to watch.

Laos

10/10/11
An early start as we said goodbye to now close friends as
the remainder of our group started the next leg of our journey to Laos. We had
a long 10 hour bus journey ahead of us, which included having lunch at the
remote bar where most of the local men inside were drunk on rice wine! The
journey wasn’t too bad especially near the border as a winding mountain road
gave us an insight into some of the scenery we would experience during our time
in Laos. Gone are the flat lands of constant rice paddies, now stunning rock
formations and mountains would be the order of the day. After crossing the
border we had only a short journey to our overnight rest stop in the sleepy
town of Lae Sao, here we toured the market before grabbing some food before
hitting the sack.

11/10/11
Another early start as we headed on to Vientiane one of the
smallest capital cities in the world. It
lays next to the Mekong River with Laos on one side and Thailand on the other.
On arriving we discover it is festival time in the city as the Buddhist Lent is
coming to an end as well as a boat festival is being held. The water front is
full of stalls and music stages as this city celebrates these events. That
night we decide to eat out from one of the stalls to experience the part
atmosphere, the place is full of people so after a while we decide to catch a
quick drink at a local jazz bar, very classy night out for our group! I end up
ordering a Pimm’s – very refreshing after a long day.

12/10/11
With only the morning to explore the capital city
most of us jump on a tuk tuk tour to quickly see the main sights. We first stop
off at Wat Ho Phakso and Wat Si Saket, the latter contains over 7,000 Buddha’s.
After we visit Pha That Luang the nation’s main monument before finally
checking out the views from the Victory Monument, which was built from concrete
that was supplied by USA to actually build a runway – opps! After our whistle
stop tour we jump back on the bus again to move on to our next destination –
Vang Vieng. On arriving we discover that a boat festival is in full flow here
as well. That night I book a full day trekking/kayaking tour to take place the
next day.

Hanoi

08/10/11
After an overnight stay in Halong Bay, were that night we visited a karaoke bar where you get your own private booth to sing songs just with your mates, we had an early start as we made our way back to the capital Hanoi to spend two nights there. On arriving we went on a quick tour through the Old Quarters where each street used to sell the same products as its name (e.g. Paper Street, Metal Street) before a group of us headed off to watch the rugby before the rain set in as it was England vs. France. England of course lost and with the rain still falling we decided tonight would be a good chance for us to have a farewell party as half of our group would be leaving the day after tomorrow. After a group meal and a few drinks at a local bar involving downing B-52 shots (when in Nam!), we headed off to a nearby club. The night was going well until the police raided the club and confiscated the sound system! This happens all the time as clubs aren’t meant to be open in the early hours, but after a raid and some money has passed hands most open up again. We on the other hand took this as a sign to end our night and so made our way back to the hotel.

09/10/11
What a difference a day makes, today I woke up to find it sunny and warm outside, a prefect day to go sightseeing on my last full day in Vietnam. We started off by visiting Hoa Lo prison where American airmen were detained during the Vietnam War; to them it was ironically known as the Hanoi Hilton. Most of it has been destroyed but a part still remains although if you believe the propaganda pictures you would think the airmen who were held there wanted to stay! Afterwards we walked past St Joseph Cathedral (legacy to French rule) before we split up as some were going to watch the water puppets. Joined by the two Colombians on the tour I set off with them for what would be a long walking tour of the city. We first visited Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum which unfortunately was closed before seeing the One Pillar Pagoda. Next we went in hunt of a relic of the war which we successfully found, part of a shot down B-52 which has been left were it fell, in the middle of a pond in a residential estate. We completed our tour by walking past the gardens and flag tower here, before lastly visiting the lake at the centre of the city. On walking round we saw lots of couples having their wedding photos done, here these are done before the big day so the pictures can be displayed at their receptions.

Halong Bay

6/10/11

Today started off with a free morning in Hue, we had a long train journey coming up that afternoon so most of us hanged around in the hotel before heading to get lunch and pick up some take away food for the train. The train journey was going to take 13 hours so when we boarded around 3pm that afternoon the time was spent playing cards, talking and drinking. At around 10pm I turned in to try and get some sleep.

7/10/11

Our ride came to an end at around 4am when we pulled into Hanoi train station, but this wasn't to be are final stop for the day, instead we jumped into a minibus for 3 hours to head east towards Halong Bay. As we neared our final distination the famous islands the bay is known for suddenly started to appear on the horizen at sea. But by the time we reached our hotel for the night they were shraded in mist as light rain started to fall. The temperture up north is much cooler than anything we have experienced so far, I even wore my fleece for the first time!

That afternoon we had a 4 hour junk boat trip around the islands. First we were served a seafood lunch including prawns, squid, crab and fish. For me it was the first time I had eaten only thing like this so I was surpised to find out how nice it was. After a quick stop we went for a slow cruize amoung the hundreds of small islands, with mist hanging around them there was even more of an peaceful atmosphere. It's an incredable sight to see all these rocks poking out of the sea, the place reminded me of Jurrasic Park abit. Finally we stopped off to visit an recently discovered cave system on one of the islands.

Hue

The city of Hue was our destination today as we made an early start to drive the 4 hours north to this next city. Our journey was to take us over Hai Van Pass, simply put one of the best driving roads in the world. As we made our ascent on one side the view became more and more stunning as the sight of the town of Danang surrounding by mountains became our landscape view. At the top we stop for a short break to be able to take in this amazing view, it was like being on top of the world. For me the whole journey to Hue was fantastic, every view was like a picture postcard, this carried on as we passed along Lang Co beach. This had to be one of the best car journeys in my life, one not to be missed.

On arriving in Hue we had a motorbike tour booked to visit several local sights during the whole afternoon. We had a vegan lunch at a monastery, drove along rice paddies, saw ducks being herded, visited the only colosseum in Asia, saw Tien Mu Pagoda, went to Bunker Hill and took a tour inside the Citadel visiting the Forbidden Purple City (most of it was destroyed during the Tet Offensive).

Suits you sir!

02/10/11

Today in Nha Trang we had a free day to do whatever we wanted till we caught our overnight train to Hoi An. After a late start a few of us headed down to the beach to get a few quick photos before having a dip in the sea. With a late arrival at our hotel tomorrow I choose to keep snacking today so I could go without breakfast this morning - I have to admit this included having a Zinger meal from KFC! What you soon discover on trips like this is you soon miss certain groups of food from home. The main one that I have been craving is cheese which doesn't feature in food out here. The only way to get your fix is to have Western style food - so today I took a break from my Asian diet. Another thing that I have really been missing is music. I find myself at certain times humming or singing songs from home without realising I'm doing it. I don't think I knew that music mean so much to me - funny the things you miss!

With rain approaching from out to sea the rest of the afternoon was spend relaxing and playing cards back at the hotel. Our days with the sun seem to be slowly coming to an end as we travel further north, we know we are heading straight towards an approaching typhoon; the next few days are going to be wet! After a day long wait we finally boarded our overnight train which we were promised wouldn't be as nice as the last one. We soon find out why when the train pulls into the station to reveal it is already carrying passengers. Inside our beds for the night have already been used but we are able to find clean sheets. It's the other passengers we are not so happy about, these include cockroaches and mice! Luckily in my cabin we only seem to have the one mouse so things could be worst.

03/10/11 – 04/10/11

Today we arrived in Hoi An, this is the place where you can get tailored made clothes and shoes made for you in less than 24 hours, the price depend on what materials you use. We basically had two free days here to do whatever we wanted, but the main thing here to do is barter and shop. The old town by the river is a protected cultural area so most of the buildings are as they were originally built during the 19 century. As I didn’t want to get anything tailor made I join a group to witness the process for myself. They can literally make you anything you want, all you need is a basic idea of shape and design and then they run with the idea, selecting materials and colours and then taking your measurements. The shops are just a front to the process; everything is made off site probably all in the same place! After hitting a few shops and with several orders made by others in the group, a few of us went for a wonder around this very pretty town.

The next day in the pouring rain some of us rented out bicycles to go on a ride through the local countryside and then down to the beach. This was quite a refreshing change of pace as we gently (well most of the time) cycled around the rice paddies, local homes until we finally reached the raging sea. But on the way back one of the bikes sockets stopped turning so it had to be dragged alongside another bike with two people on it. The afternoon was spent roaming around town with people having fittings and buying souvenirs.

Saigon

29/09/11
Today started off with a long coach trip to Saigon, at one point we had to take a ferry to cross the Mekong Delta. Just went we were over half way across a sudden rain storm hit the ferry drenching most of us on broad. By the time I got my plastic poncho on I was already soaked through. By mid-afternoon we arrived in Saigon, the R&R capital the Americans used during the Vietnam War. This is the first really modern city we have been to on our trip so far excluding Bangkok. As the rest of the group go off to explore I have an important task to carry out first, I need to get a tourist visa sort out for Thailand as I will be staying over the 15 day exclusion period you are given when entering over land. On arriving at the embassy things are find until they ask for evidence of a onwards flight, stupidly I have left my flight details back at the hotel so I make a mad dash back to get them before the cut off time to get visas in 24 hours! That evening we have dinner at a restaurant on the street; there we order beef which you cook yourself on a roof tile which is suspended over hot coals. We go for a few drinks that night to say farewell to the people who are leaving us as the next leg of our trip kicks off.

30/09/11
Today is a day which is going to focus on the ‘Vietnam’ war, or as the state here calls it the Indochina war. In the morning we visit the Chu Chi tunnels, a series of narrow tunnels dug by the Viet Cong near Saigon to act as a base against the Americans who were stationed only a short distance away. At one point we have a chance to go through a section of the tunnels ourselves. After what seems like ages, crawling hunched over in such a narrow space we eventually get to the end of the tunnel to discover we have travel over 100m underground. It is at this point that I discover that the 2 week old brand new camera I have been using has developed a lense error – gutted!

In the afternoon a small group of us go to visit the War Remnants museum back in Saigon. As well as exhibiting American war machines the museum also has several exhibits on war crimes committed by American and South Vietnamese forces. What must be remembered when visiting is that Vietnam is a communist state so the museum does present a biased view of what happen during the conflict but several photographs and especially the effects of Agent Orange (a chemical substance used by the Americans) which are still felt today cannot be argued against. The only problem is there is no mention of what acts the North Vietnamese committed to give a balance opinion of what happened in the whole conflict. Never less it is still worth to see what people over here are taught. Afterwards I pick my passport from the Thai embassy which is only a few blocks away; when we get back to the hotel I discover I have lost my Vietnam departure card from my passport!
After all the things that have gone wrong over the last two days I am almost glad to leave Saigon behind as we catch our overnight train heading for Nha Trang.

01/10/11
Well the train journey went better than I expected especially after my previous experience of one in Russia. The train was clean with air conditioning so it was actually quite a pleasant overnight trip; I also managed to get some sleep. In the morning we had arrived in Nha Trang a growing coastal holiday resort. Today we hit the beach as we travelled a little way out of town to escape away from other tourists to a huge stretch of sand used mainly by locals. We had paid a one off fee for an all-day spot at a place on the beach which had a free bar and an all-day BBQ. The place was stunning; everything had come together luckily for us. The weather, view, sea, beach, food and drink were all amazing; it was like we had arrived in paradise. I spent a happy few hours de-stressing and learning I’m rubbish at beach sports, at one point while playing with a volley ball I managed to launch it straight into my face!

Beach days

26/09/11
Another early start today as we made our way down to the coast. Our destination is Sihanoukville, a quiet little town that hugs onto the hills around here. The landscape has completely changed from the flat rice paddies we have constantly seen since entering Cambodia. Now hills rise up all around us and the flood water that has blighted our trip so far is no longer an issue. On arrival we head straight down to the beach were we are immediately swarmed by kids who want to be our new best friends so we will buy handmade bracelets directly from them. We dive into a bar to try and get rid of them but of course we are followed so in the end I ended buying some just so I wouldn’t be hassled again. After quick bites to eat we hurriedly dive in to the sea and enjoy the waves, it's a bit of a shock to discover just how warm the sea is here. In the evening we head but down to the beach to try some BBQ food, and then the madness begin as bucket drinks are passed around. Some end up skinny dipping in the sea while I’m left at the bar to DJ.

27/09/11
The next day we have a boat trip planned for the morning but the weather has other ideas. Early that morning we are hit by heavy topical showers which are to last the whole day. Watching the news it becomes clear we are on the outskirts of a typhoon that is about to hit North Vietnam over the coming days, not a good sign when we are due to leave Cambodia tomorrow morning to head to Nam. With the boat trip cancelled the day is spent bumming round.

28/09/11
This morning we jumped into Minibuses to make our way to the Vietnam border. It seems a shame to leave Cambodia after only spending six days there. It is a lovely little country full of friendly and polite people. We eventually arrived at the border-crossing which is just a series of shacks on a causeway, not as vast as the one we used to cross into Cambodia. We quickly pass through to enter Vietnam; once again it immediately looks and feels different to where we have been. After a quick bus journey we arrive at our hotel in Chau Doc, a quiet little town located in the Mekong Delta. We have two trips planned for today. First a boat trip through the floating houses that belong to the fishermen here before we jump on the back of some scooters to be transport up the top of Sam Mountain to watch the sunset over the Delta. Tomorrow we make our way to Saigon.

Phrom Penh

Saturday was assigned as a long travel day so we had a free morning as our coach wasn’t leaving until the afternoon. With some free time to kill a few of us decided to pop in to town to have a fish foot massage done. After asking a local we eventually found a place next to the night market, where for two dollars you could have a half hour fish massage and to our surprise a free beer as well. After a three count we plunged our feet into the tank and instantly burst out laughing at the tickling sensation we felt from the fish rushing to attack our feet. It wasn’t until about after 10 minutes that you could keep your feet still so the fish could do their work. I’m happy to report that our feet were indeed smoother at the end of the half hour. From flooded Siem Reap we made our way east to Phrom Penh, the Capital of Cambodia. During the journey there we could see further evidence of the damage the flood water is causing at the moment. The green rice paddies you see everywhere next to all the main roads are now under a sea of water. A lot of this current crop is now ruined meaning prices are going to have to rise.

On arriving in Phrom Penh you can instantly see how more tourist influence the Capital is, the main stretch next to the river is lined with bars and restaurants, it almost feels like a Spanish holiday resort until you dive down the back streets where familiar life returns. That night after visiting a restaurant that supports orphans a group decide to go for a night out, although at the time none of us know how mess it is going to get. After several visits to different bars and clubs we eventually head to bed at quarter to 4.

The next morning we make our way to a place labelled S 21, a former detention centre which was used during the genocides under Pol Pot only 30 years ago. Here those from an educated background were tortured and detained before being sent on to be killed. The buildings have mainly been left as they were discovered, a variety of rooms and cells to hold prisoners and some of the devices used to torture them. After a guided visit we travel to the Killing Fields were men, women and children were killed; their bodies simply chucked in pits and then covered over. Even now bodies still lay underground here; only around half of the graves have been dig up. As we walk round we have to be careful were we tread, the recent rain has pushed bones and clothes up through the ground so they are now visible on the surface. It was a sombre morning for the whole group.

We have the afternoon free so a few of us decided to go explore the city. At one point we have a tuk tuk find us a place which services local food but on arrival we wish we hadn’t bothered, it is filthy but we decide to have some food as to not offend our driver. We made a quick escape.

Angkor Wat

After a very early start (4.45 meet) we were on our way to see the sun rise over Angkor Wat. It was lightly drizzling when we took our seat on the left hand side of the ancient complex and begun our wait. But with the heavy rains atm, cloud unfortunately blocked any view of the sun as it made its ascent in the sky. Today it was meant to rise right over the centre tower, but watching as the light slowly grew behind the clouds still turned out to be a silent, peaceful moment. Our tour guide then took us for a walk around the complex before we climb up to the highest level. Despite his best attempts to make us interact with him, the early start was against his favour.

Of course this all changed after we went back to our hotel to have a quick rest and to grab breakfast, the afternoon tour prove to be a lot more successfully as people had some more energy in them. For the second part we first visited the Bayon temple before visiting others in the same complex. Here we saw monkeys for the first time as well as elephants. After 2 hours of walking round we went to grab some lunch which turned out to be the right time as heavy rain started to pour down after we sat down. Here our guide brought as a plate of beef and ants to try which didn't turn out to be too bad - apart from the bits of ants that got stuck in the back of your throat!

After lunch when the rain had slowed down we went to visit the famous Tomb Raider complex which has mostly been left as it was found, with massive trees growing through and around the ruins. For me this was the best one as it felt like we were doing some proper exploration, wondering around the ruins and coming across stunning views of nature claiming back what was once its own. All the while though the rain had still been falling, driving back to our hotel we come across a bus which has fallen in a ditch at a 45 degree angle. With more and more rain you can visibly see the flooding getting worst in town. Roads which were dry on our way out are now under water, if it continues tonight it will soon hit our hotel. Of course though life goes on here even though people are being severely effected.

Indo-China Discovery

I am currently writing this post from a wet Siem Reap in Cambodia. Due to recent heavy rain parts of the country have experienced high levels of flooding and this is what greets us as we arrive in town.

Anyway yesterday I joined my Gap Adventure tour group at the Bangkok Centre Hotel. After a quick briefing we went across the road to have our first meal with each other. After coming back a few of us decided to have a few drinks in the hotel bar. Whilst sitting there we were approached by a member of staff who ask if a Japanese tourist could come and take our picture, he apparently thought two of our number where the footballers Wayne Rooney and Messi! Not to disappoint him we happy had our picture taken with him.

After an early start today we made our way to the border where we crossed with almost no problems. As soon as you step into Cambodia the difference in wealth compared to Thailand is noticeable, conditions here are a lot poorer. After a stop off for lunch (where I discover I am likely to have my own room for the whole trip) we continue our journey to Siem Reap. On the road there the only view is of the rice paddies which stretch miles across the countryside, there are only a few hills ever now and then, otherwise the land is completely flat.

As said before when entering Siem Reap we get to see signs of the recent flooding that has hit this part of the world. The river has burst its banks with water flowing across most streets and into people’s houses and shops. With more rain to come tomorrow the level will only rise, but despite this people continue to go about their usual business.

In the evening we have dinner at a local home, one with looks after local child. Tuks tuks were arranged to take us there but because of the flooding pickups are sent instead, so in local fashion several of us climbed into the back of one of the pickups before being driven through the floods. After a fantastic meal we get to meet some of the children they look after, were we are encouraged to test out there English which is very good before leaving with high fives all round. One thing you notice in this part of the world is how friendly all the people are, you can never guess there ages either, they all look miles younger than they actually are.

Hostel life - Bangkok

Woke up this morning to the sight of falling rain - have to remember that it is currently monsoon season here in SE Asia so I am expecting to get wet at some points.

Last night I went and visited the MBK shopping centre which is just across the road from the hostel. The outside appearance gives no clue as to what is actually inside or does it reveal its true size. This place is no Lakeside/Bluewater - it is massive inside! On first entering you immediately have some clue to the size of the place as the corridor in front of you stretches on for what seem miles. It's not until you get to a set of stairs that you realise there is six floors in here all equal in size - I think I even saw a sign advertising sumo wrestling in here! But despite the size of the place there is no real variety to the shops; most sell the same types of products and goods.

I am quickly adjusting to hostel life, though Lub d seems to be of quite a high standard so I am yet to experience poor conditions yet. At the moment it seems very quiet here, last night there was only around 10 people hanging around in the lobby/patio area. I quickly made friends with one guy in my dorm - Tom. He has swiftly brought me up to date with the card game Shitface, which he ensures me is the one most travellers play so I'm now in good standing to play later on when I met others.

One thing I have learnt is not to select a bunk in front of the A/C, I thought I was wise picking the lower bunk at the far end of the dorm but found myself that night directly in the path of a cold drift from the machine which resulted in me having to wrap myself up to keep warm - lesson learnt. I managed to grab some sleep last night but it's going to take me a while to get use to sleeping in a strange place every time I move.

Anyway today I am just going to rest, grab some lunch and then head to the meeting point of my Indo-China Discovery Tour which begins properly tomorrow.

Arrival in Bangkok

Well I have finally arrived at my first stop - Bangkok. First impressions are good; have to say that the city reminds me of a few sci-fi films (Blade Runner etc.) in the way that it has been built on several levels. Railway tracks and car lanes rise above your head, were as the ground is home to masses of traffic rushing around, I wouldn't like to risk crossing the road with using a bridge!

Anyway the dreaded 12 hour flight turned out to be good. I was sat in the middle row of the aircraft next to a British couple who have holidayed several times in this region, so I at least had someone to talk to. Have to say that the flight was very mixed in terms of the people on board; Westerns seem to be the majority. Ended up watching X-men: First Class (recommend it) and try to catch some sleep, although this is impossible when sited upright on an aircraft. Dinner and breakfast was dished out along with drinks, overall fantastic service and I would recommend travelling with EVA air (nope I had never heard of them before either).

For tonight I am staying at Lub d Siam Square hostel located near the National Stadium before joining up with my tour group tomorrow across town, I'm just going to do a bit of exploring tonight and eat some food before turning in early to get some sleep.

My adventure has finally started!

Final countdown!

Right have just booked my seat online so that can only mean one thing - it's less than 24 hours till my flight departures!

Currently I have hundreds of thoughts flying through my head; I know I am going to struggle to sleep tonight. After waiting so long for this day I can't believe it has finally come around. Been dreaming about doing this trip for so long, I think the idea first appealed to me when I was back at secondary school, especially after a school trip to Russia. It was the first time I think I had ever experienced culture shock, the freezing conditions (-22 at the lowest!) and the backwards nature of Russia, it felt like you were stepping back in time. This whole experience spurred on my want to travel, to discover new places and to challenge my senses. Now I am less than 24 hours away from beginning my round the world journey.


Anyway I better try to relax and get some sleep; tomorrow the next chapter in my life begins. I'll leave you with this quote which really rings true to me - “The tragedy of life is not that it ends so soon, but that we wait so long to begin it.”

5 days till D-day

Wow I have neglected this blog!

Since I last posted a lot has happened over the past few months. At about the end of June I went ahead and booked my RTW tickets. I had finally made my mind up on where I wanted to go. The destinations I choose in the end where South East Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and the States, traveling for around six months. After checking out RTW ticket prices I arranged a meeting with a STA (travel agency who specialize in travel for people under the age of 36) rep at there Convert Garden store. After a quick chat about where I wanted to go and rough dates a basic flight itinerary was drawn up. The thing that most impressed was the price, nearly £1.600 cheaper than what I had been quoted elsewhere. Later that week and after a few dates had been changed I happily purchase my flight tickets and travel insurance - D-day was set as 19th September!

My trip is as follows:
Start: LHR - Bangkok (Asia - 6 weeks)
Bangkok - Perth (Oz - 2 months)
Sydney - Christchurch (NZ - 2 months)
Auckland - Nadi (Fiji - 1 week)
Nadi - Los Angeles (USA - 5 weeks)
Finish: New York - LHR

As you can see I will be doing a lot of overland travel.

In the end I decided that my adventure would begin doing a tour around South East Asia. Through STA I arranged a tour that would spend 30 days taking a circuit route starting/ending in Bangkok through Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos and Thailand. This was booked with Gap Adventure tours, there Indo-China Discovery tour. The reason I choose to do this was because I knew it would take me a couple of days or weeks to get into the backpacking mindset, being on the move getting use to a new lifestyle. Being on the tour meant I would only have to worry about be food and drinks. Apart from this, this is the only tour I have booked so far. Overall I have a number of things I want to see in each country and will be making up my plans as I go along.

Of course since I booked the flight tickets I have been getting prepared for my trip. Vaccinations have been injected; contacts lenses ordered, teeth checked and career break at work taken. My career break started two weeks ago so I have mainly spent the time since shopping and sorting out Visas. The main thing to buy was my backpack, after reading various sources I had decided on aiming for a 45-50 ltr one, but true to form I ended up buying a bigger one - the Berghaus Verden 65+10 Mens Rucksack. The reason why I went big was for the added space, I'm going to be doing a lot of hiking at some points on my trip so the extra space will come in handy I'm sure, especially if I end up buying loads of gifts!

Anyway as I write this I currently am counting down the 5 days till I leave, the next chapter in my life is about to begin. Have I planned enough, probably not, but in the words of one of my heroes Roald Amundsen - ‎'Adventure is just bad planning'. I'll soon find out!

The countdown begins...

Where has half the year gone? Time has flown by since I last posted a blog. It is finally time to start planning my round the world trip, looking to leave in September so got three months to get things sorted - nervous breakdown time!

'Allons-y' as the Doctor would say...

Since being at university I have always had an aim to go traveling at some point around the world. One of my main passions in life is exploring new places and facing new experiences. So at the end of last year I made the resolution that I would finally go backpacking in 2011.



I already have a few places in mind where I would like to go and things I want to see, Vietnam being at the top of the list. So I am creating this blog as a start point to my journey. I have a long way to go to plan my trip and get things organized but I am looking forward to the journey ahead.

Any ideas, help and suggestions would be much appreciated along the way - as the Doctor would say, 'Allons-y!'