Vietnam

The first part of my travels began in Vietnam. Before leaving Korea I met up with friends for coffee and unexpectedly ran into my Korean friend, who bought me coffee packets and bananas for my long travels. I then went and slept for a bit.

My bus left around 4 am to Incheon. I arrived and could check in immediately. I had to fly to Guangzho, China and from China to Ho Chi Minh. This airport in China is MUCH better than that stupid airport in Shanghai (I will forever hate Shanghai). I arrived to Ho Chi Minh sometime in the early evening, walked out of the airport, saw my friend and the other girl traveling with us and was immediately happy to be sweating.

When I left Gwangju it was snowing and then I arrived to Vietnam and it was so hot. Love! We took a taxi, but since I just arrived and was exhausted I wasn't prepared to make decisions. Our driver definitely ripped us off. We paid WAY too much for the short taxi ride (and then he asked for a tip...damn you!) We found our hotel immediately. It was a really nice place. I booked a room with 3 beds, the picture showed 3 beds and my paper said the same. They gave me a room with a double bed and a single bed and then said thats what I booked. I had proof, they didn't care. Whatever.

I spent 8 days in Ho Chi Minh, turns out that's far too many days in one city. I should have explored more. Halong Bay or Hoi An...anything.

My first meal in VIetnam was beef pho. It was delicious. Really delicious. The food was spectacular all week long. From carmelized pork, curries, fried rice, to the Vietnamese coffee and smoothies. I was happy.

On the top of my agenda was to have some clothes made. I had a really nice coat made that I've been wearing everyday. Finally a dress coat that fits perfect! I had two dresses and a pair of pants made. I wore the dress in Thailand. It's a little big, so I'll have to have it altered. But they are cute and I'm happy.

The big challenge in Vietnam was crossing the street. It was terrifying each time. I was so scared that I would be run over by a motorbike and be stuck in a hospital. Within a few days I got to be really good at judging when to cross, but when I was too nervous usually some friendly policemen would come over, stop traffic and walk me across the road. I felt like a little kid, but hey I was SAFE and that's what matters.

I explored much of the city and found it to be really beautiful. But again, I could have spent less time there.

I did two day trips. The first one was to the Mekong Delta. It seems this is a popular day trip for many people. The Mekong being a famous waterway and all. I found the tour to be way too touristy and rather, boring. It really didn't wow me much and I could have skipped it altogether.

The other day trip was to a temple and the Cu Chi Tunnels. Before I signed up for the other trip, my friend and I asked for suggestions on the best one. For whatever reason we just decided to do the full day tour without getting opinions. Terrible idea. It was at least a 4 hour bus ride to this temple and it was... mediocre at best. I've seen so many temples, some boring, some okay and others spectacular. After the temple in Taiwan, nothing will compare.

So anyway, we wandered this temple for like 30 minutes, yeah, 4 hour ride for 30 minutes there. We watched monks praying and then left. Then we went for food. The food was delicious, spring rolls and beef fried noodles. YUM!

After that we had another 2 hour ride to the Cu Chi Tunnels. This area was the site for VietCong guerillas as hiding spots, there are elaborate underground tunnels and tons of booby traps. They show videos describing the area and the war. It boasts about VietCong troops that killed the most Americans, calling them heroes. You can read more about the tunnels here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cu_Chi_tunnels

Anyway, we walked around the paths through the woods and were shown different (and terrifying) booby traps or hiding spots. There was a spot with a sign that said "B52 bomb crater" It was interesting.

Finally we arrived to the actual tunnels. They told us we were allowed to crawl through them. There were at least 6 exit spots. I was first in line behind the guard who had a flashlight. We went down one set of stairs. You could still stand, then we went down another set. By the next set we were bent over. The guard stops, shines the light on the steps and tells me to go. I started going along, and realize I need to crouch down even more. My bag was rubbing on the top of the tunnel... I began to get really nervous and scared. The tunnel was getting smaller in places. You could only see darkness, but were able to easily find your way along. My heart was beating really fast and all I wanted to do was turn around and get out.. but that was impossible. There was no way I was going to maneuver to turn around in such a small place. Eventually, I saw light and went out as quick as possible. Fresh air... woah. I'm not cut out for that. Scary.

Other people on the tour kept going, my friend crawled to the 2nd to last exit spot. She said it got even smaller as it went along. Other people who went to the end said they were crawling on their hands and knees and had to squeeze through in some parts. I'm happy I was first in line, being behind other people or sandwiched in would have terrified me even more. But being first in line was just as scary.

Vietnam is a beautiful country and I hope to go back sometime to explore more of it. Not to mention eat more food. :)

Cambodia and a funeral

The second part of my vacation through South East Asia was Cambodia. Originally I had planned to go to Laos, as I was told it was a safer place. But since I was in Ho Chi Minh (Saigon). It was easier and closer to head to Cambodia.

I got an early bus from Vietnam to Phnom Penh. I was really nervous to go to Cambodia, friends had told me it wasn't very safe there. I wasn't sure what to expect. But while on a day trip, I met these two really nice ladies. They were teaching at an orphanage in Cambodia and talked highly of the country. Then an older couple joined us and started going on about how Cambodia was their favorite country. This made me feel reassured and excited to check it out!

Beef fried noodles and a strawberry smoothie

It was a little over a 5 hour ride to Cambodia. We had to stop at the border and apply for visas, but the bus company has someone on board to do all the work. It was a really easy and quick process. We (I say 'we' because I was with another girl. more on her later). arrived to Phnom Penh, were dropped on the side of the road and immediately bombarded with tuk tuk drivers. Feeling overwhelmed and not wanting to be taken advantage I walked away from them. An older gentleman asked where I was headed and I told him, turns out he was going to the same place. We argued for a decent price on the tuk tuk ride, a dollar each. Not a lot to us, but that was 12,000 riels for him, a very pricey ride! We still had to walk about 10 minutes to the hostel anyway because the road was closed.

I traveled in Vietnam with two girls, the one girl, Kat, joined me to Cambodia. It was really challenging. She is kind of a strange girl, doesn't really know how to act around people, very nervous acting and really has no personality. Not a great travel partner.

Temple

Chicken Fried Rice 

Anyway, we were pre-warned in Vietnam, the week we were going to be in Cambodia was the week of the king's burial! All the roads near where I stayed were blocked off and there was tons of police and military guarding the streets. Huge groups of people were gathering everywhere. Monday was the official burial day, in Phnom Penh. So pretty much everything was closed. We got an awesome firework show and could walk around the city, but do little else. I didn't even get to see the palace! But it was cool to be in the city while this important part of their history was taking place. There were families having picnics everywhere, watching the broadcast of the celebrations/the kings life.

Clock in Phnom Penh

Next we were off to Siem Reap, which meant another 5 hour bus ride. This ride was very hot and uncomfortable, in a "mini bus". The hostel that I booked had free pick ups from the bus terminal or airport. So, I had a friendly man waiting at the bus stop holding a sign with my name on it. The hostel was pretty amazing. Run by two foreigners, incorporating everything in this building that backpackers need and extras for us to enjoy. Like a swimming pool, reading rooms, tv rooms, massages, yoga, a bar and cafe. It was a really awesome place. One of the best places I've ever stayed at!

Angkor Wat

As soon as I got settled in the room I met a really nice girl named Lucy. Lucy ended up hanging out with me the rest of the week. Which was awesome to have someone to chat with! Wednesday we were up bright and early for a trip to Angkor Wat. I purchased the 3 day pass in hopes that I would get to see as much as possible. We were walking around in the heat from 10 am until 7 pm. Longest day ever. Lots of climbing steep stairs. We even stayed to watch the sunset, which was overly talked about and not that impressive. But Angkor Wat is pretty amazing to see in person.

Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat

Bayon Tree

Thursday I considered a late afternoon trip to Angkor Wat, but exhaustion had caught up with me from the last week and a half. So instead of going out in the terrible heat, I read and napped... preparing myself for another week of travels. I did enjoy a fantastic lunch at this cute little restaurant. I can't remember the name of the place, but it was started by a Swiss couple. They hire orphans and teach them new skills to help them in the future. All of these orphans were being kicked out of the system because of age. They have housing, have classes, do all the cooking, cleaning and serving at this restaurant. It's really cool and the food is delicious! Friday we went back to Angkor Wat to watch the sunrise... and guess what... cloudy morning. Ha! Just my luck. The day was spent with some new friends wandering the streets. Later in the evening we all had dinner together, because the next day we were parting ways (but really, EVERYONE was headed to Bangkok).

Angkor Wat Sunrise

Meeting other travelers in hostels is one of the best things about traveling. It's amazing that if you are on a long trip how you can run into the same people each place you go. But also how quickly you can fall into conversation with them, like you've been friends all along. Sometimes you just need someone to relate to and people are so much more open to friendships when you are all traveling.

another delicious meal

I love Siem Reap and would 100% go back. It was nothing like I expected. I was expecting a dirty, run down country where I would feel completely unsafe. But as soon as I arrived I met friendly people and was surprised by the beauty of the country. You really can't judge a place until you see if for yourself. Everyone has their own opinion of places. Several friends have told me Bangkok is a dirty and terrible place. But I saw nothing but friendly people and the beauty of it. I guess it depends where you go. If you stay in the 'backpacker' area you're never going to be able to fully enjoy the country. I'm so thankful to my friends for showing me the REAL Bangkok.

Vacation Part 1: Thailand and High School Reunion

Thailand was the last stop of my vacation through South East Asia and the part I was looking forward to most. Unfortunately I was stressing out quite a bit. While in Cambodia at Angkor Wat (great timing!) I got a phone call. Apparently my "approved" vacation was just a yes to blow me off. My co-teacher failed to inform me about graduation week. I've said it before, the man is USELESS.

I arrived to Thailand by a short 55 minute flight from Siem Reap. I could have chosen the cheaper way by doing a taxi to the border and then a 15 hour train ride. But I've had enough long rides, I just wanted to arrive. After walking out into the airport I waited around for a short period of time before I was greeted with a big smile and a "HI MEGAN!!" Pat and Kan had come to the airport to pick me up. I was so excited to see them again. It had been 9 years since I last saw them, after graduating high school.

Kan, Pat and I at the Palace.. and my sweet getup to be appropriate

Kan drove his car to pick me up, I met his girlfriend Khem and the four of us were off. They first drove me to my hostel and where I checked in. Then we were off for the day. First we went for food. They ordered a bunch of random things for me to try everything. We ate and enjoyed great conversations.

Afterwards they took me to the palace. It was really hot and I had to wear a bright pink shirt and wrap because my dress was too short and the sleeves weren't long enough. The palace was beautiful but it was the hottest day, EVER. And to think it's Thailands "cool season" yeah, right. We walked around the whole palace. It was really beautiful, finally we decided it was too hot and moved on. As I was walking back past the tourist police officer, he gave a little chuckle at my silly outfit.

Next we went to Wat Pho. One of the more famous temples. Also really beautiful. Thai temples are really gorgeous and beautifully decorated. We finally were off to an air conditioned place, the mall. We didn't shop, but we did sit and snack on some sweet treats. Immediately after, we went to dinner. Operation eat everything on day 1: success.

Wat Pho

Pat and I went to a few shops and then she had her mom pick us up and drive me back to my hostel. It was a really great reunion.

Khem and I at the palace

Sunday I woke up late and took my time getting around. Sunday morning was spent with Pat and her mom. We had a delicious lunch of food from Northern Thailand. We spent a nice day together and then met up with Kan and Khem for one last dinner together. It was a really great, but short two days with old friends. I'm happy that I've stayed in contact with them these past 9 years.

Part of the Palace 

Mara and Katie finally made it to Thailand to meet me and I was really excited to see them! Monday morning we were off bright and early for a trip to Koh Chang, an island 5 hours from Bangkok (well, 5 hours, an hour ferry ride and an hour taxi ride). The bus ride was not bad. We were supposed to be picked up and taken to the ferry. We were picked up and driven to an undisclosed 'holding cell' (and by that I mean out in the middle of nowhere place with not very friendly people changing our tickets. They kept us there for about an hour. A german lady fought them and they took her back to the main ferry (which turns out was MUCH faster and shorter than our location. Finally, the took us to the ferry and we were off. An hour later we got to land and met a very sketchy/mean taxi driver. We didn't want to get in the taxi, but had no choice. He drove us about two minutes and then stopped. Holding cell number 2? We weren't too sure. Finally lovely Katie yells at to the head honcho... "Hey brother, what's going on" "Wait, ferry. More people"  OH yeah.. more money. It's cool we haven't been traveling for 12 hours.

We finally arrived to our destination and after 5 minutes turned our 3 day stay into a week long one. Our room was the 'family room' pretty much next to the cafe area. Two big beds, air con, fridge, nice bathroom. It was a good choice.

the ladies at our cottages cafe... sweet view and hammocks

We were exhausted and went to the bed early, by early I mean like 8 pm. Around 1:30 am I woke up to use the bathroom. I saw something scurry... I froze. I looked again "oh man. a cockroach!" I quietly said, in hopes that the girls would wake up and save me. I quickly shut the door and waited... Okay... try again.. It starts running down the wall. "Oh god, it's a cockroach the size of a dog!"

Mara wakes up "aw man, really? I have to pee though" She stands at the door, hopping up and down. "Don't open the door, it'll escape!" I said. We both stared at the door... Now what? Katie half wakes up "guys, it's just a cockroach! We have them in our house all the time. They are like, the cleanest bugs. It's okay" Okay, Ms. South Africa. "But Katie, it's the size of a dog!" I said. "Fine, do you want me to kill it?" Mara and I both yell.. YES! Katie jumps up, flings open the bathroom door. "Holy crap! That IS the size of a dog!" She walks over and grabs her hiking boots. Casually walks back to the bathroom, "you know these things can fly". Really Katie, just fuel the fire more. She walks into the bathroom, one swing. Not dead its still moving. Another few blows and the thing is dead. Relief. She throws the shoe down. "You guys deal with that!" and she crawls back in bed. Mara, jumps into the bathroom, cleans the bug up and then heads back to bed. I go to use the bathroom... "Oh and please remove my shoes from the killing fields." Katie adds.. No problem, Katie.

We go to sleep. I have visions of more cockroaches coming into the room. We wake up at the same time. "Hey guys, can we just talk about what happened last night" As we all start giggling and naming our dead enemy, Samuel.

green curry. DELICIOUS

The rest of the week proved to be a good time. Wake up late, eat, lay on the beach, get a massage on the beach, eat, walk, shower, eat, go to bed. Repeat.

We were talked into going on a boat for 3 hours. Somehow this didn't register to us as a TERRIBLE idea. We agreed. 3 hours on a boat squid fishing. We must have been half asleep when we said yes. A 3 hour tour didn't work out so well for Gilligan and Skipper, why would it for us? And squid fishing. We all HATE fishing and squid... EVEN WORSE. It was a terrible 3 hours. But out of it came a few friends. We met this really great family, who we would end up talking to all week and even see at a rest stop on the way to Bangkok. Never again will I squid fish (technically I just watched.)

Valentine's Day with Mara and Katie

Ginger and honey roasted duck... AMAZINGLY GOOD

the last sunset on Koh Chang

 
 Before heading to the airport, I ate mango sticky rice. BEST THING EVER. Too bad I only ate it for the first time before I left the country. Silly decisions.