Last night was so epic! We took a walk down the beach road to try and find something to do, and met a young American guy who was also looking for a party. We found ourselves at this awesome little bar with a fun DJ playing awesome music...the beer was buy one get one free..and we started off with a Chang Export..and then on to the buckets!!!
We had awesome in depth conversations with the American about everything from grow ops to tattoo's..and as the sky began to swell and the rain came pouring down, the people on the streets began to charge into the tiny bar...pretty soon it was packed with soaked travellers..throwing up high fives and hugging complete strangers..
We met this one Australian guy that has been here about 3 weeks, and was introducing us to all the locals..like we were old friends..it was so awesome! So we're all dancing and talking and wobbling around with our buckets in tow..when all of a sudden a crack of thunder and the power is OUT! music lights everything shut down...and then everyone just starts laughing and yelling and woooooo!!!!!!! and when they flashed back on..and the bass resumed it's heavy thumppp the party kicked up into high gear...at this point the rain is like a monsoon, it's a river rushing through the street outside the bar..dogs and cats are taking refuge under the bar tables..and it's just madness!!!! The power went out another 3 times..and it just fired everyone up even more..just the realization that wholly shit! we are actually partying in a monsoon rainstorm on an island in the Gulf of Thailand right now?!! So epic.
The walk home was even better then the party..Shaun and I were staggering down the middle of the road..rain pummelling our bodies..and singing "in the jungle the mighty jungle the lion sleeps tonight" at the TOP of our lungs..(I even pulled out my shitty camera with the broken screen and took some ghost shots of us..unfortunately my computer couldn't read those particular files, and wouldn't import those photo's- but I did get some other good one's from that night :)
When we got back to Siam Huts, there was a few people sitting around having drinks..and I bummed a menthol off a Thai girl..and while my back was turned her ladyboy friend was blowing Shaun kisses- much to his horror LOL...
We headed back to the room and stayed up for hours talking every possible topic known to man, and fell asleep to the sound of the storm.
What an amazing night
Tell me what YOU did last night!!!!!!
Friday, May 31, 2013
Thursday, May 30, 2013
Rate My Thailand Destinations!!!!
Brief Rundown of The Islands
Overall Rating between 1-10
1 being shit
10 being fucking phenom.
(This rating is based on a BUDGET traveller's perspective, operating at roughly 500 baht per day.......)
PHUKET 3
-I feel I cannot give a fair rating of this place, because we only stayed for one night. But I will give you my first impression: Not overly impressed.
We stayed in Patpong Beach..and it was really busy..full of touristy bars and restaurants..
If you want to party super hard in the bars and pay out the ass for drinks- you'll for sure love this place..
if you're looking for a laid back vibe and backpacker scene- miss this one for sure!
(or only go for few nights
KO PHI PHI 7
-Absolutely stunning scenery; if you're looking for that image you get when you google picture "Thailand Beaches" you'll find it in and around Ko Phi Phi!!! Complete with the limestone cliffs, the turquoise water, the white sand, and beach bars with fire dancers...
-No motorized vehicles allowed on the island, which is very cool in my opinion..
-Very dense with shops, bars, restaurants, tattoo shops etc...lots of day trips offered..scuba diving etc..just very bust in general...I can't imagine what it'd be like in the "high season" INSANE!
-Once you've spent a few nights partying here, move on..we stayed for 7 days- which was far too long for us..I also suggest going here after about 1.5 weeks after arriving in Thailand..b/c we were pretty jet-lagged still, and couldn't stay awake long enough to partake in all the crazy parties..
-People complained that food was expensive here, but honestly you can find pretty cheap and very expensive no matter what place you're in..but the cheapest we found was 50 baht for Pad Thai and fried rice from a little kiosk style restaurant on the "party side" of the beach...
-The accommodation is where Phi Phi lacked; we expected a trillion cheap backpacking dorms..because PP is known for being a young party place..but there wasn't much in the way of budget! We stayed in an absolute shack of a room for 500 baht a night..with a shared bathroom..and a fan..and it was shit..seriously, we didn't think it was that bad at the time, until we had been here longer, and stayed in other places..and it wasn't even a private hut..it was just a room in a rundown guesthouse..so avoid "The Pier" at all costs!!!!!
-We saw an awesome infinity pool right on the beach..and would have loved to stay there if it had been cheaper then 1000 baht for a fan room!!!!
KRABI 10
-LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVED Krabi
-Stayed in Ao Nang..which I have already posted about...check it out!!!
-Regrets: would have checked out Railay Bach if we'd had more common sense! Would have had twice as much money! boo hoo
KO PHA NGAN 9
-Awesome hostel...Hacienda !! woot woot!!
-Part of town we were in had a random vibe..not so sure I loved it-it was a'ight..I would have liked to stay in Haad Rin for a week as well- if given a second chance..
-Parties? Well we heard mixed reviews of the Halfmoon..which we were considering attending..but when we found out is was 600 baht per person to get in..we scratched that off the old list!
The general response from those that attended was split pretty much down the middle..The people our age (late twenties) disliked it, or thought it was so so..and the people in their early twenties FUCKING LOVED IT...so take that however you like...
-The beach in front of Hacienda was shit. It was full of rocks..and primarily the water was ick..there were weird half structures made out of wood sticking out of the water..like something was under construction, and then got abandoned..The tide was out during the day..so you had to walk for a million miles to get to any depth you could swim in...thank god for the pool!
BANGKOK 8
-awesome! read my previous post...
KO CHANG
..I'll add this one in a week or so.....stay tuned
Overall Rating between 1-10
1 being shit
10 being fucking phenom.
(This rating is based on a BUDGET traveller's perspective, operating at roughly 500 baht per day.......)
PHUKET 3
-I feel I cannot give a fair rating of this place, because we only stayed for one night. But I will give you my first impression: Not overly impressed.
We stayed in Patpong Beach..and it was really busy..full of touristy bars and restaurants..
If you want to party super hard in the bars and pay out the ass for drinks- you'll for sure love this place..
if you're looking for a laid back vibe and backpacker scene- miss this one for sure!
(or only go for few nights
KO PHI PHI 7
-Absolutely stunning scenery; if you're looking for that image you get when you google picture "Thailand Beaches" you'll find it in and around Ko Phi Phi!!! Complete with the limestone cliffs, the turquoise water, the white sand, and beach bars with fire dancers...
-No motorized vehicles allowed on the island, which is very cool in my opinion..
-Very dense with shops, bars, restaurants, tattoo shops etc...lots of day trips offered..scuba diving etc..just very bust in general...I can't imagine what it'd be like in the "high season" INSANE!
-Once you've spent a few nights partying here, move on..we stayed for 7 days- which was far too long for us..I also suggest going here after about 1.5 weeks after arriving in Thailand..b/c we were pretty jet-lagged still, and couldn't stay awake long enough to partake in all the crazy parties..
-People complained that food was expensive here, but honestly you can find pretty cheap and very expensive no matter what place you're in..but the cheapest we found was 50 baht for Pad Thai and fried rice from a little kiosk style restaurant on the "party side" of the beach...
-The accommodation is where Phi Phi lacked; we expected a trillion cheap backpacking dorms..because PP is known for being a young party place..but there wasn't much in the way of budget! We stayed in an absolute shack of a room for 500 baht a night..with a shared bathroom..and a fan..and it was shit..seriously, we didn't think it was that bad at the time, until we had been here longer, and stayed in other places..and it wasn't even a private hut..it was just a room in a rundown guesthouse..so avoid "The Pier" at all costs!!!!!
-We saw an awesome infinity pool right on the beach..and would have loved to stay there if it had been cheaper then 1000 baht for a fan room!!!!
KRABI 10
-LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVED Krabi
-Stayed in Ao Nang..which I have already posted about...check it out!!!
-Regrets: would have checked out Railay Bach if we'd had more common sense! Would have had twice as much money! boo hoo
KO PHA NGAN 9
-Awesome hostel...Hacienda !! woot woot!!
-Part of town we were in had a random vibe..not so sure I loved it-it was a'ight..I would have liked to stay in Haad Rin for a week as well- if given a second chance..
-Parties? Well we heard mixed reviews of the Halfmoon..which we were considering attending..but when we found out is was 600 baht per person to get in..we scratched that off the old list!
The general response from those that attended was split pretty much down the middle..The people our age (late twenties) disliked it, or thought it was so so..and the people in their early twenties FUCKING LOVED IT...so take that however you like...
-The beach in front of Hacienda was shit. It was full of rocks..and primarily the water was ick..there were weird half structures made out of wood sticking out of the water..like something was under construction, and then got abandoned..The tide was out during the day..so you had to walk for a million miles to get to any depth you could swim in...thank god for the pool!
BANGKOK 8
-awesome! read my previous post...
KO CHANG
..I'll add this one in a week or so.....stay tuned
Koh Chang
We have found a great place to stay in Koh Chang called Siam Huts...we're paying 260 Baht for a BEACH FRONT hut...it is very minimal..so if you're looking for luxury- don't bother!
It has a super comfy king size bed&mosquito net, a private bathroom, and a balcony with 2 chairs..
The common area consists of a giant deck overlooking the water, with table&chairs and little cushions and low tables..depending on your style ;) Music is playing throughout the day, and at night they roll out the giant projector screen to show Hollywood Blockbusters in English. (w/Thai subtitles)
We've had one meal so far at the restaurant, and the portion of meat and veggies- or just veggies for my vegetarian self...is pretty small..whereas they give you a giant portion of rice..random?
The prices are pretty good for a restaurant..I paid 60 baht for mixed veg in sweet n sour sauce..
They have a bar as well..and on Friday nights there's apparently a big party with DJ and cheap 99 baht buckets...
Driving the scooters through town (200 baht for 24 hours) we noticed flyers for other parties..there's one tonight..so maybe we'll check that out?! The tiny little town near to our resort has everything you could really need..bars, laundry, restaurants, 7-11 etc..
We took our scooters up the island to White Sand Beach..and there are 2 other beach "towns" in between...the road goes from flat to OBSCENELY hilly...like nuts..I had a vice grip on my break..I went about 40 km/hr and it only took us 15-20 mins to go from here to there..We may stay here for a few days, and then try another place (if we find something better)
What are my complaints about our hut/resort?
-The water pressure is abysmal..it literally drips out of the head..I was laughing out loud when I realized how long it would take me to rinse the shampoo out of my hair..
-There is no internet in the hut, which is understandable for 260 baht a night..but I do expect to have access to internet in the common area- which was not working today. So we walked 2 mins down the beach to the next resort called "Nature Beach"..and I am currently enjoying a Chang beer and free WIFI. ;) problem solved!
Koh Chang is officially our last stop before we head back to Bangkok before departing home..and I was thinking about how I would compare it to the other islands we have visited..so maybe I'll create a separate post rating each place we've visited on a scale?!!!
xox
PC
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Memories
After writing my previous post about tattoo's, and ending off mentioning my anchor..I was moved by all of the memories that came flooding into my mind...here are a few..
-jumping off the dock into the water with my brother- and getting my gramma to rate our moves out of 10..
-sunset boat cruises with my family-sitting at the very front of the boat with my legs dangling, and the wind rushing through my tangled hair...
-my dad pulling me on waterski's..and then me driving and him while he ski'd barefoot
-picking wild blueberries for morning pancakes...
-pulling garden carrots with my grandma
-having tea parties on my special rock out by the road, and with my white plastic tea set with the red hearts...
-walking through the woods, smoking tea leaves with my brother...thinking we were cool as shit
-making up dances with my friend Jaymie to Britney Spears and Hole- in the same afternoon
-tending to my grandpa's cuts..he'd call for me "noyse!" and I'd get out the Bactine spray and the bandaids
-drinking my grandma's chocolate slimfast thinking she wouldn't notice
-going out with my guy friends to awesome lake parties..blasting Bon Jovi and The Eagles singing and dancing and drinking..
-driving down Storm Bay in my moms Pontiac 6000 at 80 km/hr ripping turns with my bikini tied on to the antenna!
-listening to Metallica and Iced Earth in the Tempo with the hole in the floor
-going to sailing and windsurfing camp..and getting my white sail levels
-getting my boating license
-eating my gramma's delicious pineapple upside down cake for desert
-baking gingerbread cookies with my gramma
-going down to my grampa's workshop, and building doll furniture
-reading cosmo's on the dock suntanning with oil.
-the smell of the pine tree's in the winter air
-writing and singing songs- while drinking red wine and smoking ciggarettes, in the coach house by candle light
-having a drink with my grandparents during "cocktail hour" Appleton's rum and coke, or Vodka and orange juice..always Tropicana...
-having "tidbits" at lunch with my grandparents..(cheddar cheese, kalbassa sausage, sweet pickles, liver wurst & mayo, cream cheese and red pepper jelly on Ritz crackers)
There's sooo many more ....
And even in my older years when working and other obligations have kept me from the lake... when I can make it out on the odd weekend..I still feel the same sense of peace come over me as I drive down Storm Bay Road... and I know that...I am coming home...
xox PC
Talking Tattoo's
One of my favourite things to do, is to brainstorm ideas for future tattoo's; I also love to hear about other people's ideas..!
I prefer collecting individual tattoo's over time relating to a similar theme, rather then sitting down for a full tattoo from shoulder to wrist- although when it comes to certain area's of the body such as chest and back...I think I would make an exception to my little rule ;)
I like to think about my ideas for a long time, I sketch my ideas, I have an "inspiration" folder on my laptop where I collect images that resonate with me. I have found over the years that my ideas all revolve around really traditional themes like anchors, ships, stars, waves etc..but done in black & grey and omitting the bright primary colours typical of that style. So I'd say Black & Grey, Fineline, Realism would be my preference.
I knew I wanted a tattoo since I was about 14, and was really into creating a "cool look" for myself..I had all these ideas about how I wanted to dress, do my hair, what jewellery I wanted to wear, how I wanted to do my makeup etc..and having tattoo's was always part of that image. I felt like having a personal style, and presenting myself to the world in a way that matched how I felt inside was extremely necessary for me.
My mom was strongly against tattoo's and piercings, and I don't think I even thought about asking her to sign for me- I knew I'd be waiting for april 29th 2003 when I turned 18. In the mean time I was obsessed with makeup and actually used oil pastels to create eye shadow effects, giving these "looks" names like "sunrise"..I was also really into Value Village, and in those days it was still full of awesome vintage stuff. I used to wear t-shirts from the little boys section, and baggy jeans..full on TLC style!..then at 16 I got my nose pierced using a fake ID and I was on my way!!
So finally after about a year of brainstorming ideas I decided on my first tattoo: It would be "VERITAS" a latin word meaning "truth" I got it tattoo'd in a gothic/old english style up my left calf. My boyfriend at the time paid for it for my 19th birthday, I remember the artist saying- "Are you sure? this is a little big for your first one.." hahaha
The tattoo was meant to remind myself to always be true to who I am; that I want to be alternative and I would never settle for a life that was average, and that required me to look a certain way. I think it was also a statement in rebellion against my mom, as she always warned me that I wouldn't get a good job with tattoo's and piercings..
The 2nd one I got was 2 skeleton keys crossed with an"R" underneath..on my left forearm. At the time it looked so badass and massive, but nowadays it looks so small!!! I got it in Valporaiso, Indiana whilst on a road trip with best friend Breanna Little. We were in Chicago to see a few screamo bands, and when I was turned away for not being 21, I was told that "they'll do it in Indiana" So we drove across the border and got it done! Bre got a skeleton key on a rosary around her ankle..and I'll never regret that tattoo for the rest of my life! We both loved the antiquity and mystery the skeleton key evoked in our imaginations..an awesome representation of the vibe we loved.
The 3rd one was an interesting story, Bre and I had gone to Minneapolis for a fun weekend and I went into the shop with an image of a sweet pinup girl. The artist told me pinups weren't his strong suit, so instead of going somewhere else, I just pulled another idea out of my journal- a set of wings! So I got those on either side of my right ankle. I don't remember them having any meaning, except now they represent yet another awesome road trip with Bre!
Between the ages of 22-26 I didn't get any tattoo's because:
#1 I was always broke and in between jobs
#2 I was soooo indecisive! I had a folder entitled "Tattoo Ideas" that I filled with print outs from the internet, personal drawings, bullet point ideas on napkins and on the insides of ciggerette packs..
I had so many ideas, and I wasn't 100% on any of them for a prolonged period of time, or I didn't know how to organize my ideas into pieces..
I think It was because I was trying to draw the finished product myself, as opposed to simplifying the process:
putting down a deposit and paying monthly until I could afford it- and allowing the artist to assimilate my ideas, and use their fine art skills to come up with the finished product. Seems to logical now, but that wasn't how I operated then!
So after all those years I realized I had a similar theme going on, and felt like I have known who I am for a long time, and my look really isn't going to change... so I should just start already!
Tattoo #4
An anchor with a bow and heart going through the centre..with the words "Storm Bay Road" written above and below the image. I got this one on my right forearm.
This tattoo means the most to me, in that it represents my absolute LOVE for my cabin at Lake of the Woods in Ontario. Most of my fondest memories are from the years I spent summers there...
My next piece is going to be a half sleeve:
a gypsy/sugar skull inspired girl..with a bandana tied in the front like a pinup..on my left upper arm...from my elbow up about 5 inches..(i think- i suck at estimations) I'm getting roses from an ariel perspective..and on the inside of my arm I'm thinking of a stormy water scene- with crashing waves, thunder clouds and lightening..maybe a lighthouse..
This tattoo just represents me and again the lake, I love the mysticism of the gypsy lifestyle.. and the art celebrating Mexico's Day of The Dead..the magic of the seasons..and the wildness of a storm on the water at night..it's just magical..that's what this tattoo is..just a beautiful magical girl..and all her dreams and yearnings...
SO....I want to hear alllll about YOUR tattoo's- what are their meanings or lack thereof?..and what do you have in store for the future ??!!!!
xox PC
Sunday, May 26, 2013
COOL THINGS TO DO IN BANGKOK ON A BUDGET!!!!!
So we have been in BKK now for maybe 5 days? I can't keep track! and I am really really loving it..
Typically the average traveller arrives in Bangkok, stays for 1 or 2 days and then moves on to the culture rich north or the sun soaked islands in the south; but if you're into cities, and you have more then 2 or 3 weeks in Thailand, you should def. give Bangkok at least 5 days to see all that this city has to offer.
Some
1. Find a hotel with a rooftop swimming pool!
(Most places don't care if you bring in your own booze purchased for cheap at 7-11) This is an awesome way to meet cool friends!
-We found one at Buddy Lodge on Khao San Rd, they charge 200 baht to get in for the day.
2. Find out where the Thai's party..
-Khao San has recently become trendy for young Thai hipsters to hang out..it is no longer just for "stingy Farangs"
-Buddy Lodge has a venue on the 1st floor right next to the elevator that has Thai bands every night..we saw an awesome ska band that reminded me of No Doubt..the club was bursting at the seams with young cool Thai's..they come with a group of friends and order a bottle of booze, and then mix..NOBODY drinks beer..it was so cool to be there!
-There's another spot on Soi Rambuttri (the street that runs parallel to Khao San) where we saw a local band, and again- that club was packed!
-The cool thing about these Thai venues is they don't charge cover!
3.Go see a movie
-They have a bunch of movie theatres here, some that play Western blockbusters (played in English, and subtitled in Thai) and others that play everything from edgy cinema from Thailand to films from France!
-They have VIP movie theatres as well where you can order food, and alcohol..
4.The Forensic Museum at the University
-Check out co-joined twins, and victims of murder
-40 baht to get in
5.Siam City Waterpark
-300 baht to get in
6.Dusit Zoo
-check out giraff's, black panthers, lions, the seal show (awesome btw) monkeys, crocodiles, ZEBRA'S!!! etc..
-100 baht to get in
7.Check out the scene areas other then KSR:
-Ratchaprasong
-RCA
-Sukhumvit
-Siam
-Silom
-Victory Monument
There's obviously a million more things to do, but it's a start!
Typically the average traveller arrives in Bangkok, stays for 1 or 2 days and then moves on to the culture rich north or the sun soaked islands in the south; but if you're into cities, and you have more then 2 or 3 weeks in Thailand, you should def. give Bangkok at least 5 days to see all that this city has to offer.
Some
1. Find a hotel with a rooftop swimming pool!
(Most places don't care if you bring in your own booze purchased for cheap at 7-11) This is an awesome way to meet cool friends!
-We found one at Buddy Lodge on Khao San Rd, they charge 200 baht to get in for the day.
2. Find out where the Thai's party..
-Khao San has recently become trendy for young Thai hipsters to hang out..it is no longer just for "stingy Farangs"
-Buddy Lodge has a venue on the 1st floor right next to the elevator that has Thai bands every night..we saw an awesome ska band that reminded me of No Doubt..the club was bursting at the seams with young cool Thai's..they come with a group of friends and order a bottle of booze, and then mix..NOBODY drinks beer..it was so cool to be there!
-There's another spot on Soi Rambuttri (the street that runs parallel to Khao San) where we saw a local band, and again- that club was packed!
-The cool thing about these Thai venues is they don't charge cover!
3.Go see a movie
-They have a bunch of movie theatres here, some that play Western blockbusters (played in English, and subtitled in Thai) and others that play everything from edgy cinema from Thailand to films from France!
-They have VIP movie theatres as well where you can order food, and alcohol..
4.The Forensic Museum at the University
-Check out co-joined twins, and victims of murder
-40 baht to get in
5.Siam City Waterpark
-300 baht to get in
6.Dusit Zoo
-check out giraff's, black panthers, lions, the seal show (awesome btw) monkeys, crocodiles, ZEBRA'S!!! etc..
-100 baht to get in
7.Check out the scene areas other then KSR:
-Ratchaprasong
-RCA
-Sukhumvit
-Siam
-Silom
-Victory Monument
There's obviously a million more things to do, but it's a start!
Monday, May 20, 2013
A Little Taste of Heaven On Earth
i wake first thing in the morning
in the mirror paint mascara and lush matte lips
my 1st french press a heartfelt gift
patiently wait for the brew to darken..push and compress
rich almond milk.vanilla rice dream.heavenly soy mist
golden agave nectar.perfect honey.lovely monday
creamiest. vanilla foam top.cinnamon swirl
sip from a delicate blue teacup with a golden edge
the simple joys of being a girl
warm sun streams in through the kitchen window
incense unfurls & dispels it's magical embrace
vivaldi plays and the room is alive
a little taste of heaven on earth
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Losing Weight While Backpacking In Thailand
So in order to maintain current weight, or lose some pounds while backpacking in Thailand, I have been told to avoid:
-Curries made with coconut milk
-Blended beverages like milkshakes, smoothies, thai iced coffee's
-White rice
-Fried spring rolls
-White bread
-Thai salads (the ones with peanut sauces, and sugars added)
-Thai pancakes
-Pad Thai
-Copious amounts of beer and cocktails (duh)
I find this very disheartening, considering it would be rather impossible to backpack around Thailand without consuming some of those foods on a weekly, if not daily basis..white rice???? My god! I don't believe I've come across brown rice since I've been here; and I definately have not seen a slice of flax seed bread! So I am miffed. What in the world should we eat? If you're like me and were actually hoping to LOSE a couple pounds before getting home..
Some Ideas:
-Tom Yum Soup (request that they use minimal oil)
-Hard broiled egg and tons of fresh fruit
-Mixed salads with the oil+vinegar on the SIDE
-Mixed vegetable stir fry with half the rice
-Spring rolls that aren't fried (the ones wrapped in rice paper)
So for the next 7 days, I'm going to try out these ideas, and see how I feel. By the way- earlier on in the trip, like the first 7-10 days I was eating Pad Thai and green curry like every day...but since I've been ill for the last 7 days I have avoided those two choices entirely.
Is there anyone else out there who is currently in Thailand, and struggling to find healthy options???
Let me know!!!!!
Saturday, May 18, 2013
Making friends and The "Waterfall" Party
We've met so many awesome people at this hostel, and we've met them all at the pool! Couples, single dudes, single girls, groups..you name it! And the awesome part is, we've all become like a big crew of friends..
About 13 of us piled into 2 cabs (the back of a pickup truck) and went to the "Waterfall Party" which was described on the hand bill as: "lovely waterfall cascading into shimmering pools" or something along those lines..when we arrived we were dropped off at the mouth of a jungle road, which took about 10 minutes to trek up and into the party spot..we could here the minimalist trance thumping in the jungle humidity.
It was a super cool setting for a party..UV paint stands everywhere, fire dancers, kiosks selling buckets, food etc..right in the middle of a frickin jungle! We got there before 10PM because it was free, and were glad we did so, because we decided to leave about an hour later..it was just too hot and too intense..and Shaun in particular didn't feel comfortable, and more importantly- THERE WAS NO WATERFALL. THERE WAS NO SHIMMERING POOLS. It was stark dry. So although that was a major let down, I'm glad we at least checked it out...
My Vegetarian Journey Thailand
Well I wanted to give ya'll an update on how my vegetarianism is goin out here in T-land.
Here's what I'm eating roughly 3x per day:
-mixed fruit (pineapple, mango, banana, watermelon)+yogurt+muesli
-Toast with butter and jam
-Tom Yum soup (tomato, onion, carrots, mushrooms, baby corn)
-Mixed salad (cucumber, tomato, shredded carrots, onions, oil and vinegar dressing)
-Pad Thai without egg (i am SO SICK of eggs!)
-Fries :( not healthy..but honestly sometimes I just need that home flavour!
-Mixed veg with ginger and rice
-Sushi!!! I discovered an awesome "night market" and lo and behold..a sushi cart!!!! Surprisingly, the Wasabi is not very potent here.. Weird eh?!
I haven't been eating a lot of curries lately b/c my stomach hasn't been feeling to well for the last week. So the variety is really slim, and I've been tempted to expand my vegetarianism into pescetarianism...but dude, I can't eat the fish! I just CAN'T..
I have def. been feeling a lack of nutrition here, there is virtually no options in terms of tofu, seitein, or Tempeh products. I really regret not bringing multi vitamins, and am afraid to take my iron supplement for fear of constipation..soooooo it's been tough- aint gonna lie.
I'm renting a scooter tomorrow, and maybe I can find an awesome Vegan/Vegetarian eatery where I can indulge in a delicious meal..
OMG all I want is a Veggie burger, Dragon Bowl Salad and coffee with soy milk from the greatest vegan restaurant ever-- MONDRAGON IN WINNIPEG!!!!!!!
Here's what I'm eating roughly 3x per day:
-mixed fruit (pineapple, mango, banana, watermelon)+yogurt+muesli
-Toast with butter and jam
-Tom Yum soup (tomato, onion, carrots, mushrooms, baby corn)
-Mixed salad (cucumber, tomato, shredded carrots, onions, oil and vinegar dressing)
-Pad Thai without egg (i am SO SICK of eggs!)
-Fries :( not healthy..but honestly sometimes I just need that home flavour!
-Mixed veg with ginger and rice
-Sushi!!! I discovered an awesome "night market" and lo and behold..a sushi cart!!!! Surprisingly, the Wasabi is not very potent here.. Weird eh?!
I haven't been eating a lot of curries lately b/c my stomach hasn't been feeling to well for the last week. So the variety is really slim, and I've been tempted to expand my vegetarianism into pescetarianism...but dude, I can't eat the fish! I just CAN'T..
I have def. been feeling a lack of nutrition here, there is virtually no options in terms of tofu, seitein, or Tempeh products. I really regret not bringing multi vitamins, and am afraid to take my iron supplement for fear of constipation..soooooo it's been tough- aint gonna lie.
I'm renting a scooter tomorrow, and maybe I can find an awesome Vegan/Vegetarian eatery where I can indulge in a delicious meal..
OMG all I want is a Veggie burger, Dragon Bowl Salad and coffee with soy milk from the greatest vegan restaurant ever-- MONDRAGON IN WINNIPEG!!!!!!!
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Taking A Chill Day To Reflect
Do you feel guilty when you'd rather stay in and sleep rather then hit the beach on a beautiful day in Thailand? I do.
And I really need to get over it-because some days I just don't feel like being "on" as I've heard other travellers call it.
Sometimes I just want to read in my bunk, browse the internet for 5 hours, or just sleep; but somehow I always feel like I "should" be out exploring, meeting people, or just laying on the beach.
Even at home I am a serial "do-er" and it is really hard for me to allow myself to just take a nap, or do nothing on a day off from work. I always have some project or activity I'd like to do- write a song, do a photo shoot, browse a bookstore, meet a friend for coffee, research medicinal mushrooms and chinese herbs, sketch potential logo's for my clothing brand, working on my children's book, make sushi ETC. It never ends!!! And I do those things in my spare time when I'm not at work 40 hours a week.
So being in Thailand, with 100% free time is quite the adjustment-I'm not sure how to structure my time, when not doing a specific activity like visiting a waterfall. We can't afford to do activities every day, or even every week!
Today I slept in until 11:30am, woke up and read my book for an hour or so, walked to get lunch, ate it on the hostel patio, checked my email, went back up to bed and watched "Lock Up Abroad" for 2 hours, then read my book for another 1.5 hours, and have now been on the internet for 2 hours.
It was an alright day, but I feel kind of unaccomplished..and I don't want to fee like that!!!
I want to realize that it is ok to just not do anything in a day; To enjoy quiet time from start to finish, and not feel the urge to always be "productive." but...
I wanted to do some introspection on this trip, to really think about my life, and where I want it to go on a really deep level- and I don't know how to do that?
Maybe it's because I'm still hanging on to routine and order..and am taking awhile to slowly let go of the hustle hustle lifestyle that is North America.
But..maybe I am already content? and I don't need to do any hard thinking about my future because I like the way it is unravelling naturally?
And I really need to get over it-because some days I just don't feel like being "on" as I've heard other travellers call it.
Sometimes I just want to read in my bunk, browse the internet for 5 hours, or just sleep; but somehow I always feel like I "should" be out exploring, meeting people, or just laying on the beach.
Even at home I am a serial "do-er" and it is really hard for me to allow myself to just take a nap, or do nothing on a day off from work. I always have some project or activity I'd like to do- write a song, do a photo shoot, browse a bookstore, meet a friend for coffee, research medicinal mushrooms and chinese herbs, sketch potential logo's for my clothing brand, working on my children's book, make sushi ETC. It never ends!!! And I do those things in my spare time when I'm not at work 40 hours a week.
So being in Thailand, with 100% free time is quite the adjustment-I'm not sure how to structure my time, when not doing a specific activity like visiting a waterfall. We can't afford to do activities every day, or even every week!
Today I slept in until 11:30am, woke up and read my book for an hour or so, walked to get lunch, ate it on the hostel patio, checked my email, went back up to bed and watched "Lock Up Abroad" for 2 hours, then read my book for another 1.5 hours, and have now been on the internet for 2 hours.
It was an alright day, but I feel kind of unaccomplished..and I don't want to fee like that!!!
I want to realize that it is ok to just not do anything in a day; To enjoy quiet time from start to finish, and not feel the urge to always be "productive." but...
I wanted to do some introspection on this trip, to really think about my life, and where I want it to go on a really deep level- and I don't know how to do that?
Maybe it's because I'm still hanging on to routine and order..and am taking awhile to slowly let go of the hustle hustle lifestyle that is North America.
But..maybe I am already content? and I don't need to do any hard thinking about my future because I like the way it is unravelling naturally?
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Inspired by Brooke Candy
Well I'm chillin here in Thailand..and taking a day off from the beach, I'm catching up with my old friend, you tube!
I listened to Brooke Candy's "Don't Touch My Hair Hoe" and I just LUV her.
I then watched an interview with her on I-D online, and she comes across as a super intelligent, interesting chick who I'd love to have a conversation with ( and write a song with :)
She found what she loves- rapping, and spreading a message of awesomeness, and acceptance, and who gives a fuck attitude..and she is 100% living her dream. THAT is super inspiring to me!
That level of total acceptance of self-and drive and determination to pursue your own happiness, is something that I hope to achieve with my own dreams and aspirations.
:) :) xoxoxoxoxoxo
I listened to Brooke Candy's "Don't Touch My Hair Hoe" and I just LUV her.
I then watched an interview with her on I-D online, and she comes across as a super intelligent, interesting chick who I'd love to have a conversation with ( and write a song with :)
She found what she loves- rapping, and spreading a message of awesomeness, and acceptance, and who gives a fuck attitude..and she is 100% living her dream. THAT is super inspiring to me!
That level of total acceptance of self-and drive and determination to pursue your own happiness, is something that I hope to achieve with my own dreams and aspirations.
:) :) xoxoxoxoxoxo
Monday, May 6, 2013
What's It Like At Ao Nang Backpacker Dormitory?
AWESOME!!!
We decided to move on from our 600/Baht a night private room, that was beyond our budget; We took the scooters down the main road about 5 minutes, and Shaun spotted this place. We popped in and inquired about the facilities:
-1 bed in a very clean, and very modern..Air/con mixed dorm with thick blankets and a comfy mattress was a mere 150/Baht !!!!!!!
-A lovely patio with comfy cushioned chairs (a rare occurrence in Thailand) and tables
-Big TV playing western movies
-Fridge to store food and drink purchased from the grocery store (instead of eating out every single day)
-Cafe selling coffee, tea, smoothies and shakes.
-Extremely clean facility with WIFI in dorms, and patio
Another plus is the two people who either work here or own the place, are very friendly and hospitable, and speak good english. I am excited to explore the little strip of restaurants, shops, and bars around the hostel! I'll update later with photo's (my camera broke, so I am using Shaun's IPhone)
We decided to move on from our 600/Baht a night private room, that was beyond our budget; We took the scooters down the main road about 5 minutes, and Shaun spotted this place. We popped in and inquired about the facilities:
-1 bed in a very clean, and very modern..Air/con mixed dorm with thick blankets and a comfy mattress was a mere 150/Baht !!!!!!!
-A lovely patio with comfy cushioned chairs (a rare occurrence in Thailand) and tables
-Big TV playing western movies
-Fridge to store food and drink purchased from the grocery store (instead of eating out every single day)
-Cafe selling coffee, tea, smoothies and shakes.
-Extremely clean facility with WIFI in dorms, and patio
Another plus is the two people who either work here or own the place, are very friendly and hospitable, and speak good english. I am excited to explore the little strip of restaurants, shops, and bars around the hostel! I'll update later with photo's (my camera broke, so I am using Shaun's IPhone)
Should You Rent A Scooter In Thailand?
HELLS YES!
The Myths about renting scooters in Thailand:
-The roads are very dangerous
-The drivers are maniacs
-The scooters themselves can be faulty, and rundown
-The companies that rent you the scooter can charge you 10,000 Baht if they detect that something has been damaged-even if nothing has
-You're better off to just pay for an organized tour, on a safe, air conditioned government bus
The Realities:
-I felt very safe on the roads in Thailand, more so then I do at home
-The drivers are 100% conscientious of other motorists
-Road rage does not exist here, people are insanely calm and courteous
-The scooters were brand new, 2013 models, impeccably kept. If you want to find a run down scooter I'm sure you could find one..but a short stroll down the main beach road in Ao Nang turned up half a dozen or more shops..all renting top of the line bikes.
-Organized tours are a total rip off, unless you are unable or unwilling to explore on your own. The buses are not that nice, and isn't it more fun to enjoy a 2 hour drive with the wind blowing through your hair- on your own time anyways?
When standing on the side of the road watching the traffic go by it looks intimidating because of the sheer volume of motorists. Scooters, motorcycles, trucks, tuk tuks, cabs, cars all together, driving on the opposite side of the road..it can be very scary to look at. But once we got in the mix, it was hardly frightening..there is a beautiful rhythm to the traffic here, people moving in and out peacefully. Slower scooters stay to the extreme left, and cars and faster scooters use the main lane..but even so, they honk the horn when coming up behind you as a warning, and give you a large birth when passing.
We met our friends from Saskatchewan at noon at the local McDonald's, and went to rent our scooters; We decided to each get one because we both wanted to experience driving, and figured 100 Baht for gas wasn't too bad!
It was scary at first getting used to the other side of the road, but within 15 minutes I felt quite alright! We scooted down the beach road to the very end, and discovered a really cool park where it seems the local Thai's hang out. The tide was out so we walked out on the sand littered with shells towards the limestone islands, that you normally couldn't access. We found a spot where there was a bit of water to swim, although it was an overcast day and eventually started to rain, it was a surreal feeling to be in water warm as a bath, with ice cold rain pouring down from above.
We ate lunch at a tasty seafood joint, I had the Tom Kah soup with no meat, which was nice and spicy to cure my hangover!
Then the real adventure began..off to see the Emerald Pools! Apparently these warm pools are the colour of emeralds, and you are able to swim in them. Our journey led us winding down the amazing highways, through magnificent limestone cliff passes, and then dipping low into pure jungle. We saw a sleeping buddha statue the size of a semi truck, tucked on her side under the lip of a limestone cliff; she was among a peaceful area spotted with temples, and shrines and beautiful trees with trunks so big you could drive a car through.
We drove for 2 hours or so..and wound up at a national park with an awesome waterfall..we hiked through literal jungle, complete with hanging vines Tarzan could swing on, and an orchestra of exotic jungle sounds.
At about 6pm we left the National park, as the darkness fell I realized my headlight and tail light did not work- this was a very scary realization; I am on a scooter, I am driving on the opposite side of the road, and I must drive on a highway in the dark, with no lights, for 2 hours. Luckily I was able to ride behind Holly+John and in front of Shaun with his high beams on. At one point I decided it would be better to follow Shaun, as my presence was creating a black shadow on the highway in front of me, and I was unable to see very well. It was going well for awhile, until Shaun either sped up- or I slowed down..and he was gone and everything went black. I panicked-screaming his name and flashing my turn signal, and honking my horn; I wildly slammed the bike towards the shoulder, stopped and hoped that he heard me and would turn back. It was honestly the scariest 30 seconds of my life, I couldn't see my hand in front of my face, I was on the side of the road, with traffic coming up behind me, and was immobile with fear, crying and shaking in absolute black. Shaun came back, and gave me his bike, and I followed him the hour back to the beach. WOW.
It was an awesome day, and a brilliant experience, minus the lights thing..and I would def. suggest renting your own scooter. It really opens up your capacity for experiences, taking you off the beaten tourist path, and into a more authentic immersion into the Thai life. Even just to hop on the scooter, and find a new restaurant to eat, or to discover a new beach- you don't have to make a 2 hour trek- you can keep it within a 30 mile radius..and save a bundle!!!
The Myths about renting scooters in Thailand:
-The roads are very dangerous
-The drivers are maniacs
-The scooters themselves can be faulty, and rundown
-The companies that rent you the scooter can charge you 10,000 Baht if they detect that something has been damaged-even if nothing has
-You're better off to just pay for an organized tour, on a safe, air conditioned government bus
The Realities:
-I felt very safe on the roads in Thailand, more so then I do at home
-The drivers are 100% conscientious of other motorists
-Road rage does not exist here, people are insanely calm and courteous
-The scooters were brand new, 2013 models, impeccably kept. If you want to find a run down scooter I'm sure you could find one..but a short stroll down the main beach road in Ao Nang turned up half a dozen or more shops..all renting top of the line bikes.
-Organized tours are a total rip off, unless you are unable or unwilling to explore on your own. The buses are not that nice, and isn't it more fun to enjoy a 2 hour drive with the wind blowing through your hair- on your own time anyways?
When standing on the side of the road watching the traffic go by it looks intimidating because of the sheer volume of motorists. Scooters, motorcycles, trucks, tuk tuks, cabs, cars all together, driving on the opposite side of the road..it can be very scary to look at. But once we got in the mix, it was hardly frightening..there is a beautiful rhythm to the traffic here, people moving in and out peacefully. Slower scooters stay to the extreme left, and cars and faster scooters use the main lane..but even so, they honk the horn when coming up behind you as a warning, and give you a large birth when passing.
We met our friends from Saskatchewan at noon at the local McDonald's, and went to rent our scooters; We decided to each get one because we both wanted to experience driving, and figured 100 Baht for gas wasn't too bad!
It was scary at first getting used to the other side of the road, but within 15 minutes I felt quite alright! We scooted down the beach road to the very end, and discovered a really cool park where it seems the local Thai's hang out. The tide was out so we walked out on the sand littered with shells towards the limestone islands, that you normally couldn't access. We found a spot where there was a bit of water to swim, although it was an overcast day and eventually started to rain, it was a surreal feeling to be in water warm as a bath, with ice cold rain pouring down from above.
We ate lunch at a tasty seafood joint, I had the Tom Kah soup with no meat, which was nice and spicy to cure my hangover!
Then the real adventure began..off to see the Emerald Pools! Apparently these warm pools are the colour of emeralds, and you are able to swim in them. Our journey led us winding down the amazing highways, through magnificent limestone cliff passes, and then dipping low into pure jungle. We saw a sleeping buddha statue the size of a semi truck, tucked on her side under the lip of a limestone cliff; she was among a peaceful area spotted with temples, and shrines and beautiful trees with trunks so big you could drive a car through.
We drove for 2 hours or so..and wound up at a national park with an awesome waterfall..we hiked through literal jungle, complete with hanging vines Tarzan could swing on, and an orchestra of exotic jungle sounds.
At about 6pm we left the National park, as the darkness fell I realized my headlight and tail light did not work- this was a very scary realization; I am on a scooter, I am driving on the opposite side of the road, and I must drive on a highway in the dark, with no lights, for 2 hours. Luckily I was able to ride behind Holly+John and in front of Shaun with his high beams on. At one point I decided it would be better to follow Shaun, as my presence was creating a black shadow on the highway in front of me, and I was unable to see very well. It was going well for awhile, until Shaun either sped up- or I slowed down..and he was gone and everything went black. I panicked-screaming his name and flashing my turn signal, and honking my horn; I wildly slammed the bike towards the shoulder, stopped and hoped that he heard me and would turn back. It was honestly the scariest 30 seconds of my life, I couldn't see my hand in front of my face, I was on the side of the road, with traffic coming up behind me, and was immobile with fear, crying and shaking in absolute black. Shaun came back, and gave me his bike, and I followed him the hour back to the beach. WOW.
It was an awesome day, and a brilliant experience, minus the lights thing..and I would def. suggest renting your own scooter. It really opens up your capacity for experiences, taking you off the beaten tourist path, and into a more authentic immersion into the Thai life. Even just to hop on the scooter, and find a new restaurant to eat, or to discover a new beach- you don't have to make a 2 hour trek- you can keep it within a 30 mile radius..and save a bundle!!!
Saturday, May 4, 2013
Saturday Night in Ao Nang Beach
We started off the evening at Taj Restaurant, and it was the most delicious food we've had since arriving in Thailand. period. We had a delicious Indian vegetarian dish called "Mutter Paneer" which was a sort of tomato/cream based sauce with cubes of cottage cheese that tasted like tofu..quite lovely..with cilantro and fresh peas. We also ordered a vegetarian pizza, which tasted just like home, and quenched our thirst with Pina Colada's and Chang beers. We had almost finished our food, when a couple sat down at the table beside us, and engaged us in conversation- and we ended up spending the whole night with them, from one bar to the next.
We wandered down a dark alley and wound up at a seedy little bar called climax...where we played a game of pool and had a few Changs..
Then hit up an awesome reggae inspired spot complete with baby kittens lounging on the bar..and before we left rasta bartender/owner Mr.Long hooked us up with a free shot of his special tequila..
We had been aching for some rock n roll since arriving in Thailand, and were drawn around the corner by booming female vocals and a live band! Shaun got up on stage and played drums to a cover of Metallica's "Enter Sandman" and then I took the mic and slayed Journey's "Don't Stop Believing" and Joan Jett's "I Love Rock n Roll" it was effing amazing. Every member of the band was so fun and engaging..the other vocalist/keys master was so awesome rocking his toque and nike shirt with converse runners!
It was an amazing night and we stumbled back to our hotel room at around 2am..the latest we've stayed up since arriving here!!!
We wandered down a dark alley and wound up at a seedy little bar called climax...where we played a game of pool and had a few Changs..
Then hit up an awesome reggae inspired spot complete with baby kittens lounging on the bar..and before we left rasta bartender/owner Mr.Long hooked us up with a free shot of his special tequila..
We had been aching for some rock n roll since arriving in Thailand, and were drawn around the corner by booming female vocals and a live band! Shaun got up on stage and played drums to a cover of Metallica's "Enter Sandman" and then I took the mic and slayed Journey's "Don't Stop Believing" and Joan Jett's "I Love Rock n Roll" it was effing amazing. Every member of the band was so fun and engaging..the other vocalist/keys master was so awesome rocking his toque and nike shirt with converse runners!
It was an amazing night and we stumbled back to our hotel room at around 2am..the latest we've stayed up since arriving here!!!
Krabi- Ao Nang
Well we have arrived in Ao Nang Beach, Krabi- and I am VERY impressed.
We got a shared cab with another couple for 400 Baht from the ferry..which took us the half hour to Ao Nang beach. We asked the cab driver to take us to a cheap hostel..he dropped us off here, at "Seaworld Hostel" and omg I am sooo happy ! We have a king size bed, mini fridge, 2 comfy sitting chairs, our own bathroom and shower, and the best part: a balcony with the most stunning view of limestone cliffs to the right, and lush jungle and palm trees to the left. It is absolutely beautiful, for 100 baht more then we paid in Phi Phi for a musty shared bathroom and decrepit room with holes in the ceiling. Oh and this room has air conditioning and WIFI in the room-so we're pretty much in heaven.
The little hill the hostel is on also has a cool pub advertising live bands, and a couple other guesthouses..2 minutes out the door to the main street you've got everything you could need- restaurants, bars, laundry, massage, 7-11, street vendors, clothing shops..and turn right and walk 5 minutes and there's the beach!!!!! AMAZING. I def. think we're going to be staying here awhile! I'm looking forward to really relaxing, I feel such a genuinely good vibe!
We have now been in Thailand for 12 days..and have stayed in 4 places! So crazy!
We went for a walk to check out the price differences between here and phi phi..here's what we discovered so far:
7-11
Beer: 44 Baht for a big Chang (60 baht in PP)
Water: 10 Baht (same for local brand)
Smokes:66 Baht (75 baht in PP)
Street Smoothie: 40 Baht (80 baht in PP)
Pad Thai: 40 Baht (10 Baht less the PP for egg and veggie no meat)
I'll make a bigger post tomorrow listing more items! We're heading out for dinner now :)
We got a shared cab with another couple for 400 Baht from the ferry..which took us the half hour to Ao Nang beach. We asked the cab driver to take us to a cheap hostel..he dropped us off here, at "Seaworld Hostel" and omg I am sooo happy ! We have a king size bed, mini fridge, 2 comfy sitting chairs, our own bathroom and shower, and the best part: a balcony with the most stunning view of limestone cliffs to the right, and lush jungle and palm trees to the left. It is absolutely beautiful, for 100 baht more then we paid in Phi Phi for a musty shared bathroom and decrepit room with holes in the ceiling. Oh and this room has air conditioning and WIFI in the room-so we're pretty much in heaven.
The little hill the hostel is on also has a cool pub advertising live bands, and a couple other guesthouses..2 minutes out the door to the main street you've got everything you could need- restaurants, bars, laundry, massage, 7-11, street vendors, clothing shops..and turn right and walk 5 minutes and there's the beach!!!!! AMAZING. I def. think we're going to be staying here awhile! I'm looking forward to really relaxing, I feel such a genuinely good vibe!
We have now been in Thailand for 12 days..and have stayed in 4 places! So crazy!
We went for a walk to check out the price differences between here and phi phi..here's what we discovered so far:
7-11
Beer: 44 Baht for a big Chang (60 baht in PP)
Water: 10 Baht (same for local brand)
Smokes:66 Baht (75 baht in PP)
Street Smoothie: 40 Baht (80 baht in PP)
Pad Thai: 40 Baht (10 Baht less the PP for egg and veggie no meat)
I'll make a bigger post tomorrow listing more items! We're heading out for dinner now :)
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Yum Yum Thailand
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| Thai Iced coffee BKK |
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| "A Taste of Heaven Available on Earth" |
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| Banana Thai Pancake mmmm |
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| Thai Iced Coffee Phi Phi :) |
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| Yellow Curry mmm |
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