January to June 2012 - Panama, Argentina, Chile, South Africa, Italy, Corseca

Parque Nacional Nahuelbuta

2012-03-07T08:48:00.001-08:00

The road is gravel, very steep, it takes us 1.5 hours to travel 47 kilometers to Parque Nacional Nahuelbuta in the Nahuelbuta range situated between 800 - 1,500 metres high. The campsite is primitive, the forest is magnificent and our hike amongst the ancient Araucarias (Monkey Puzzle Trees) and Coigues is fantastic. One of the Araucarias we pass is marked 2,000 years old. Imagine, walking through a forest this ancient!! It has witnessed historical change in civilization, industry, politics - EVERYTHING. This area has been protected since 1939 and I hope t will remain in tack for another 2,000 years........

Nancy, Do You Want To Drive?

2012-03-07T07:12:00.001-08:00

Highway driving I'm good to go, city driving - well - that one I am more uneasy about. So, when Nick asked if I wanted to drive into Valdivia I thought sure, small city, not much traffic, what could be so bad. Well, one lane turned into two, then three, heck who needs lanes, just drive without hitting the other guy! Although this is somewhat normal, I soon realize the traffic is nothing but NORMAL. The flow of vehicles moved like lava squishing through a tube! Popping out the other side of Valdivia we pull into a campground. The attendant suggests that if we can find a patch of grass to put our tent on to take it; Valdivia is celebrating La Semena, the founding of their city in February 1552. What a festival celebration it is - street performers, food vendors, craft markets, a decorated boat parade and midnight fireworks!

Vultures

2012-03-06T12:07:00.001-08:00

The fence-line is close to the rivers edge and all along the first rung is a string of vultures. As we move closer to the venue they raise their shoulders and peer at us with black beady eyes. A few swoop down towards the river squawking with annoyance and proceed to peck and eat the dead pig.

Aqua-culture Heartland

2012-03-06T11:37:00.001-08:00

It is impressive, to say the least, to watch transport truck after transport truck haul aqua-cultured salmon from the Chiloe archipelago to Peurto Montt on the Chilean mainland where fish is flown out daily to world markets. Chile is the second largest salmon producer of the world behind Norway. After the aqua-culture crises in 2000, which resulted in massive unemployment, researchers started testing aqua-cultured seaweed for commercial purposes. Did you know that the virus in the chilean salmon that caused the crises has only recently been discovered in BC salmon and that our conservative government will not allow Canadian Fisheries Scientists to speak publicly and about their findings?

Burn Baby Burn

2012-03-05T10:35:00.001-08:00

Determined to find a bit of wilderness we drove to Parque National Chiloe via Cucao. Although the park ended up not being very accessible to us there was a lookout and a hiking trail that took about an hour to hike. The best part were the 15 well treed private campsites and we could have a fire. So for 6 bucks we bought some wood, which was wet, and worked for over two hours to get the darn thing going. Once lit we had a soothing flame to cook our sausage and sit by until late into the evening.

Old Man and the Sea

2012-03-05T10:28:00.001-08:00

The people of Chiloe Island are 100 percent connected to the sea in one way or another. Walking out to the Pier in Ancud one afternoon we came across this man repairing an old skiff. Not once did he glance up to see the people who gathered to watch him carve and shave pieces of wood to replace the old rotten timbers.

Colorful Wooden Houses

2012-03-05T10:09:00.001-08:00

Nestled by the sea is Chiloe's capital city Castro. It is full of charm and character. Nick and I especially liked the colorful wooden houses built on stilts to accommodate the dramatic tidal fluctuation that can be as much as 20 vertical feet.

Chacao Channel

2012-03-05T03:54:00.001-08:00

After spending a night in a cabaña, just inside Chile's border, we head directly south to Chiloe Island. The Chacao Channel is not very wide and it only takes us about 30 minutes to cross by ferry. The channel is bursting with sea life and birds, seals, sea lions and jelly fish are easy to spot. The evening air is refreshing and gives us the energy we need to drive into the evening to look for a campsite.

Quicksand

2012-03-05T03:43:00.001-08:00

Heading towards Paso Cardinal A. Samore along highway 231 to Chile, we pass what looks like ponds of sand. Taking a side road we stop the car and take a closer look. The first thing we notice is that there is absolutely no disturbance on the surface of the sand - not one footprint of any kind. As we approach the edge of the sand pond the ground becomes more and more spongy. OK, this is quicksand! Suddenly old Tarzan movies replay in my mind of Jane in distress sinking out of sight in quicksand with every move she makes until just as her nose is about to go under she is saved by her hero. Ummmmm - I think in this situation it may be best to step away and carry on........

Cerro Lopez

2012-03-05T03:36:00.001-08:00

The sun is shinning, there is no wind, we decide it is the perfect time to climb Cerro Lopez. The mountain in 2076 meters tall and has a refugia near the top where people can rest of stay if they plan on longer treks. The vantage and viewpoints are fantastic all along the trail. At one point we lose the main trail, find another Canadian hiker and together we bushwhack until we find the right path once again. Great company, super hike, overall a fantastic day.

Swishing Bums

2012-03-04T15:13:00.001-08:00

BOOM, BOOM, BOOM, one drum beat overlaps another and the sound draws our attention. We head down the street to an area where people have lined the street on both sides. It appears to be a parade and a competition of sorts - groups of girls of all ages dressed in costume dancing and twisting as boys drum out a rhythm competing with the next procession of girls and boys doing the same thing. The older girls are wearing skimpy wee skirts showing off there booty and at times bare naked bums!

Plaza Italia

2012-03-04T15:08:00.001-08:00

Bariloche feels like walking through a typical Canadian national park townsite. Architecturally beautiful, stunning scenery and in this case has tranquil plaza's. Right alongside the lake is Plaza Italia and this church stands as sentinel right smack in the middle - impressive!

Lago Nahuel Huapi

2012-03-04T14:58:00.001-08:00

The day is cool, dark and it is pouring with rain. We make our way to Bariloche situated in the lake district on the shores of Lago Nahuel Huapi and look forward to having a few days of rest. The setting is lovely with the Andes backdropping one side of the city and the lake on the other. Lago Nahuel Huapi is a glacial fed lake that is over 100 kilometers long and covers an area of 500 square kilometers. It is beautiful and completely in tack without any hydro development on it whatsoever.

Mapuche Gaucho

2012-02-19T07:11:00.001-08:00

This young cowboy is Mapuche. He was in a hurry as he encouraged his horse to move faster. His image backlit in the afternoon sun was commanding.

Monkey Puzzle Tree

2012-02-19T07:09:00.001-08:00

Officially known as the araucaria araucaria the common name monkey puzzle tree derives from England when a person remarked how it would puzzle a monkey to climb such a tree. This tree is native to Argentina and is sacred to the Mapuche and Pehuenche people. The monkey puzzle tree grows only 1 to 2 cm per year, can reach heights of 40 meters and can live for up to 1,500 years. The pine nuts are a very important food to the indigenous people of this area. It was an awesome sight to see them growing in their natural habitat.

El Bolche De

2012-02-19T07:06:00.001-08:00

We stop the car, get out for a nice long stretch and take int he surrounding landscape. Nick asks me "do you think anyone live in that building?" "No, I don't think so, it seems abandoned to me" I say. Seconds later a man appears in the door............

Patagonian Desert

2012-02-19T07:03:00.001-08:00

The desert is one of the most sparsely populated regions on earth. Covering and area of 270,000 square miles more than 95% is privately owned to raise seep, cattle and goats. The steppe grass glows golden in the afternoon sun.

Museo Mineralogico - Dr. Juan Olsacher

2012-02-19T07:00:00.001-08:00

This incredible museum is free and contains over 2,000 types of mineral from all over the world. It also has the best collection of marine reptile and fauna fossils in Argentina.

Simple Homes / Alternate Energy

2012-02-19T06:57:00.001-08:00

Some of the homes are very basic and others ranches known as estancias are quite elaborate. Gaucho's (cowboys) in this area tend to cattle, sheep and goats over vast areas. Although most dwellings are very simple and isolated they are usually equipped with solar and/or wind power.

Monk Parakeets

2012-02-19T06:51:00.001-08:00

Roadside distraction, agricultural pest, or a delightful sight. The monk parakeet is highly intelligent, sociable and noisy!

Roadside Shrine

2012-02-19T06:48:00.001-08:00

As we drove through south along ruta 40 we noticed shrines numerous shrine along the highway. The ones with red flags are dedicated to the memory of Gaucho Gil. He is revered throughout Argentina and is a folklore Saint. Gaucho apparently stole from the rich and gave to the poor. Eventually he was captured for deserting the military and sentenced to death. Upon his execution he warned the executioner his son would be stricken with a serious deadly illness if he killed him and the only way to save his son would be by honoring Gil's body with a proper burial. The significance of the flag is said to be unknown but some suspect it may have something to do with Gaucho's political party or the symbol of his blood when he was executed.

Endless Desert

2012-02-19T06:17:00.001-08:00

It is super hot, everything from the sun to the succulent plants are prickly. It is vast and beautiful - I wonder - how on earth do people live here.

Rio Atuel

2012-02-19T06:14:00.001-08:00

Even though there are four hydro electric dams on the Rio Atuel, there is enough water flowing in the lower reaches for whitewater rafting over short distances and a chance to do a little bird watching.

Canyon Colors

2012-02-19T06:03:00.001-08:00

Canon de Atuel is a massive gorge that lies between El Nihuil and Valle Grande. Although the road is roughly 35 kilometers long it takes us three hours to drive. The colors, rock formations and changing landscape is spectacular.

Apple Orchard

2012-02-19T05:52:00.001-08:00

After a very relaxing stay in Mendoza, we rent a car and head south towards Tupungato. We find a private campsite where we can pitch our tent in their pear and apple orchard and can pick as much as we want. DELICIOUS!!

Wine Chemistry

2012-02-19T05:47:00.001-08:00

Grapes have grown in this area for over 500 years to produce wine. First by the Jesuits and now by over 300 wineries in the region. Overall the quality is improving as techniques are refined and the old criollo vines are replaced by malbec, cabernet sauvignon, merlot and syrah vines.

Cabernet Sauvignon

2012-02-19T05:44:00.001-08:00

The district of Mendoza is famous for its delicious wines. It seems hard to believe that there are so many bodegas or vineyards that occupy land that was once desert. But, through elaborate river fed aqueducts, the people have made the area rich with orchids, olives and grapes. Yes, the wine is fantastic!

Jardin Zoologico

2012-02-19T05:40:00.001-08:00

WE have visited zoo's in other large cities and have found that over the years the management of zoos have evolved into amazing research and education centers. So, we decide to see what Jardin Zoologico has to offer as it is close to where we are staying. OH MY GOD!!!!! For us, a complete and utter disappointment. I really don't know what to say - maybe this picture of a Canadian grizzly bear begging for apples speaks for itself.

Malvinas Islands/Falkland Islands

2012-02-18T13:35:00.001-08:00

It is early evening on February 7th and we are in front of the parliament buildings alongside protestors, tv crews and politicians who have been convened for a special meeting to discuss the rising tension over the Malvinas Islands with the increased UK military presence in the area. We later learn that on February 12th, as reported by various news outlets that President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner has accepted an offer for the United Nations to help mediate a pacific solution with the United Kingdom over the sovereignty of the Malvinas Islands.

La Boca

2012-02-18T13:31:00.001-08:00

We walked to the La Boca district from the Plaza de Mayo looking for the El Caminito district and the famous Boca soccer stadium. The stadium we found - missed El Caminito. We ended up a few blocks over in the slums of La Boca. There is nothing touristy here - shanties in complete disrepair, graffiti inscribed on every possible surface, half naked children playing in wading pools, clothes lines with laundry draping off the balconies and men smoking and talking in groups along the street with policia on every street corner. It may not have been what we imagined, but is a true reflection of an impoverished neighborhood in Buenos Aries.

Cementario De La Recoleta

2012-02-18T13:28:00.001-08:00

The cemetery is built in the gardens of the original monk convent of the order of Recoletos in 1822. As described through Wikipedia "the 14 acre cemetery contains 4,691 vaults, all above ground. The cemetery contains elaborate marble mausoleums decorated with statues. While some are in excellent condition others have fallen to disrepair with broken glass and littered with rubbish." The graves contain Argentinas most notable people who were presidents, academics, poets and artists, politicians and military officers. It is a jaw dropping display honoring Argentinas elite!

City of 13 Million

2012-02-18T13:22:00.001-08:00

Buenos Aries is a world city, giant in size and complex. One of the things that really stands out for us is the giant wetland and park on the cities waterfront. The ocean is accessible to the public and in the background are giant skyscrapers and financial buildings.

Reflections of us...

2012-02-18T13:07:00.001-08:00

Buenos Aries has beautiful green spaces, parks filled with trees, statues, water fountains and young lovers. This magnificent statue inspired both of us when we saw it as it seemed to speak to the love and life journey we both share.

Buenos Aries - Red Hot

2012-02-18T12:51:00.001-08:00

It's 10:00 PM and we decide to head out for empanada's at a local club not far from our guest house. It is dark, long and narrow, full of people eating and drinking wine. As we enter the doorway we are asked if we have a reservation. No, we both respond. The room seems impossibly full and just as we turn to leave the young woman who greeted us takes us to a wee tiny table by the stage. It is hot, sweat is pouring off everyones body and the musicians begin to play with a fervor. There are eight people playing instruments and or singing. People are clapping and swaying their bodies in time to the beat - no one can sit still - this latino band is RED HOT!

Boquete, Panama

2012-02-02T16:34:00.001-08:00

Here is another place going through great change now that the Americans and Canadians have found a climate that is not too hot or too cold in a magnificent cloud forest setting. Land is for sale everywhere, condos are going up, the cost of living is steadily increasing and the double lane highway to David is under massive construction. But, as always the charm and the history floats to the surface through its people and the colorful markets.

Franks Place

2012-02-02T16:29:00.001-08:00

Frank has carved out a spectacular sanctuary along the Rio Encantado where he lives, rents out beautiful cabins and allows the odd camper. It is here that we set up our tent, bath in the river, meet new friends and relax in a beautiful paradise.

Beach Break

2012-02-02T16:21:00.001-08:00

One hour - hot - sun bathers - birds - policia - fisherman - boats - ONE FISH - time to go.

Nick, what is that sound?

2012-02-02T16:19:00.001-08:00

Perched on the ancient 5 million year old volcanic ridge overlooking El Valle on one side and the Pacific Ocean way in the distance on the other, my head turns to a sound that I cannot quite determine. "Nick" I say, "what is that sound?" Within a few seconds a dark buzzing cloud - so loud - so massive - flowing just over the landscape - begins its passage over our heads. I kneel down closer to the mountain ridge and Nick remains absolutely motionless. The moment passes, it is quiet once again. Unsure of what we exactly witnessed we ask a local bird specialist what he thought. KILLER BEES migrating through he says. "You are very luck a straggler at the back of the swarm did not circle back! You could have been attacked."

El Valle de Anton

2012-02-02T16:09:00.001-08:00

As usual there is not a cloud in the sky and a gentle breeze washes over the landscape. La India Dorrida, a natural mountain formation in the shape of a sleeping princess stretches along the horizon. El Valle is a very special place. It is the second largest continually inhabited volcanic crater in the world. The climate is cool, the valley walls are steep and the diversity of bird species and orchids endemic only to this are are magnificent. There is even a species of tree that is square! The people who live here, originate from this place, are kind, gentle, and a little shy. This local person, unnoticed in background of the market, plays on his fiddle that is entirely homemade including the bow and the simple strings that produce an awkward, but suitable sound.

Birthday Surprise

2012-01-23T09:29:00.001-08:00

A young woman walks into the mexican restaurant unaware her friends have arranged a surprise birthday party. Tears well up in her eyes as people start to sing happy birthday and proudly place a colorful sombrero on her head. The Mariachi band enters the restaurant and their music fills the room with joy. Tequila is brought to the table and the party begins!

Financial District, Panama City

2012-01-23T09:11:00.001-08:00

Since passing a tax law to attract multi-national companies it appears the economy in Panama is red hot. Financial skyscraper after skyscraper, of which some are absolutely empty, sirens, constant hammering, horns, traffic, corrupt cabbies and men in business suits surround us like a cloak. Progress is expensive, loud and smelly. In the midst of all this commotion, we stay in a beautiful home that provides quiet and space. A reminder of the what this neighborhood may have been.

WAIT - the lawn ornament, it's moving!

2012-01-23T08:11:00.001-08:00

Van City, Nanaimo, friends, family, great food, late night conversation and nostalgic music creates the perfect departure phase.

Our Winter Home

2011-11-26T21:35:00.001-08:00

We are getting excited and spending more and more time planning our trip. Air tickets are booked and we're looking for accommodation in the Panamanian jungle. It will be a very different transition from the cool temperatures and darkness we currently have in Whitehorse. None-the-less what sun we do get is gorgeous!

Location:Whitehorse, Yukon

Sunset Bar Revisited

2011-01-30T04:45:00.001-08:00

Sunset at Golden Bhudda Beach
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Peno just opened a new establishment - the sunset Bar. Welcoming us with a huge smile we sit at one of the few tables, listen to some music, chat with maybe one or two other folks, and enjoy the sunset against the magnificent backdrop of the Andaman Sea.

Oriental Pied Hornbill

2011-01-30T04:44:00.001-08:00

Horn Bill at Golden Bhudda Beach
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Life is magical when you can sip on a beer, read a book, listen to the waves, and bird watch all at the same time. The Oriental Pied Hornbill lived in the trees around our place and often we had a chance to get a very good look at this spectacular bird. Eating fruit and insects these birds mate for life and an absolute wonder to watch.

Bar and Grill

2011-01-30T04:42:00.001-08:00

Mr Chuoi
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Mr. Chuoi

Everyone knows Mr. Chuoi pronounced like "Chewy". He is a great cook, owns a bar/restaurant, has accommodation for those who want it and is one of the few people on the island who survived the 2004 Tsunami on December 26th Mr. Chuoi said he had read about tsunami’s and when he heard what sounded like many helicopters and trees crashing he knew he had to try and reach a higher point - the tallest tree in his immediate area. Clinging on for his life for what must have felt like an eternity, his heart racing, somehow he managed to survive. He has rebuilt his business, is super friendly, and doesn't mind taking you out for an island excursion on his motorbike.

Koh Phra Thong Island

2011-01-30T04:34:00.001-08:00

Miles and Miles of Golden Bhudda

Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Koh Phra Thong is an exceptionally gorgeous island in the Andaman Sea with miles and miles of pristine white sand beaches, a plethora of birds, insects and jungle plants including large areas of savannah on parts of the island. Local people in the villages make shrimp paste, fish and harvest cashew tress. Golden Buddha Beach resort is an eco resort that practices low impact tourism on the island and provides extra employment. This was an extremely relaxing place to spend a bit of time relaxing, reading, eating great food, and listening to the pound of the waves and the song of the cicadas.

Coral Cave

2011-01-30T04:32:00.001-08:00

Cave Clam
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

The lake created an opportunity to explore new areas and exceptional cave discoveries were made. To reach the Coral Cave we parked our longboat, hiked over a small pass, arrived at another lake that we crossed by bamboo boat. Coral Cave gets its name by the uniquely and beautifully formed stalagmites growing up from the ground and stalactites reaching down from the ceiling which appear exactly like sea coral.

Floating Raft Cabins

2011-01-30T04:29:00.001-08:00

Resort
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

There are about 13 different floating stations on Cheow Lake. All of the tourist accommodations, washrooms, restaurants, kitchens and staff quarters are floating connected by boardwalks. It is a great concept and fun too.

Cheow Lake

2011-01-30T02:46:00.001-08:00

Reservoir Dogs
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Imagine building a hydro dam inside a National Park flooding pristine jungle habitat and then marketing it as a tourist destination. Cheow Lake is 100 meters deep set inside massive limestone mountains. It is true that the man made islands are eerily beautiful but dodging the giant dead trees sticking out of the water is rather unsettling. It is hard not to think about the irreversible destruction below.

Jungle Night Walk

2011-01-30T02:16:00.001-08:00

Sleeping Bird
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

We spent 3 hours with our guide Adam exploring one of the parks hiking trails by night. It was a great evening. We saw spiders, poisonous caterpillars, frogs, mouse deer, shedding cicadas, a civet cat, a flying fox bat and a sleeping flycatcher.

Khao Sok National Park – Thailand

2011-01-30T02:12:00.001-08:00

Reservoir
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Covering an area of over 738 square Km, Khao Sok Park combined with two wildlife sanctuaries creates one of the largest continuous nature preserves on the Thai peninsula. It is puzzling to me though how a flooded lake, due to a hydro dam, which flooded an area of 165 square Km in the park, can be considered a sanctuary.

Time of Change

2011-01-30T02:10:00.001-08:00

Mekong Low Water

Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Vientiane, and Laos in general, is going through a time of great change as China invests heavily into hydro development. Many rivers including the Mekong will be dammed as Laos strives to create a better standard of living for its people. As I ride my bike through the dusty streets, where the sky always seems to be in a haze, and the smell of sewage lingers in the air, I wonder whom, how, what will ultimately benefit.

Sunset Bar

2011-01-30T02:06:00.001-08:00

Laos Friends
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

It’s Julie’s birthday and we have a plan – at 5:00 PM we are to meet at the Sunset Bar to watch the sunset over the Mekong River before the famous establishment is demolished to make way for riverfront development. We all arrived at different times and every available chair was taken by 5:30 PM. The atmosphere was full of great energy, chatter, laughter and also sadness. Half of the building has already been taken down and the interior furnishings and décor are being sold to those who want them for the memories.

To Market to Market

2011-01-29T09:13:00.001-08:00

Noi Buying Desert
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Have you ever gone to a foreign market wishing you were brave enough to try food in which you had no idea what it was? Well, on this day, with 7 Yukoners in tow, Noi took us on a dessert-shopping extravaganza. “Try this,” she would say with the biggest brightest smile. Before long we had enough variety of delectable treats that only in our wildest dreams did we actually think we would sit down to a dinner of dessert.

Life with the Robinson-Boivin Family

2011-01-29T09:10:00.001-08:00

Julie and John
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Vientiane has an outward character all of its own. But what made this a truly remarkable experience was living with John, Julie, Cole, Jane, and their friend Megan – all of whom are from Whitehorse – in John’s brother and his wife’s home just outside the city. John and Julies sister-in-law is from Laos and through her family and friends we were all truly welcomed.

Let me see your glasses

2011-01-29T09:04:00.001-08:00

Elder Bhudda with Nicks Glasses
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Every day at 4:00 AM and 4:00 PM monks pound on giant drums and clang on gamelans. It feels like the monks from each temple are talking to each other through the powerful sound of percussion. While waiting for the young monks to arrive at the drum shelter an elder monk approached us. Pointing at my face and nodding with a smile it was explained the elder wanted to try on my glasses. Carefully he put them on glancing this way and that way and then politely hands them back to me. Then, directly looking at Nick he points to his glasses. Once again he carefully places the glasses on his face and immediately smiles – He can see! As luck or karma would have it, Nick had two pairs of the exact same reading glasses. The decision was easy – as we left the temple grounds and looked back over our shoulder we saw a very happy man.

Cheers to your health!

2011-01-29T09:02:00.001-08:00

Snakes and Reptiles
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Is this a tourist trap or do the local people really believe in the powers of highly toxic animals? This jar is filled with snakes, lizards, centipedes and millipedes. It’s good for your health the vendor preaches with a smile – go ahead – drink a little bit…drink, drink!

Darn, she’s not going my way!

2011-01-29T09:00:00.001-08:00

Bicycle Bridge
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

This particular bridge over the Nam Klan River is only open to pedestrians, bicycles and motorcycles. A steady stream of traffic flows in both directions making it a rather interesting bike ride to get across. This young man is a tad too late catching the eye of the young woman heading into town – DARN.

Eateries

2011-01-29T08:59:00.001-08:00

Cozy Restaurant
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

The decision of where to eat every day is pretty simple in Luang Prabang because of the number of very good restaurants, bistros and bars. This cozy place is especially relaxing – set in the tress on the riverbank a cool breeze blows through the colorful open spaces encouraging lounging, sleeping, playing board games and eating great food.

Ballet or Folklore?

2011-01-29T08:57:00.001-08:00

Sida
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

I find it interesting that the group of performers we saw in the Grand Palace Theatre is called the Laos National Ballet. The dance appeared traditional, the repetitive haunting rhythms of the music haunting, and the costumes and masks transforming the traditional story called “The Golden Deer and the Abduction of Sida” into a beautiful stage play. Story telling at its finest!

Luang Prabang – French Colonization

2011-01-29T08:55:00.001-08:00

French Doors
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

In 1887 Chinese rebels known as “The Black Flag Army” devastated the kingdom of Luang Prabang destroying and looting every monastery in the city. During this time the King decided to accept protection from France. The French allowed the kingdom to retain its monarchy and proceeded to import Vietnamese workers to build offices and villas that resulted in a very distinctive colonial atmosphere. The French continue to travel here by the droves even though Laos is a communist country lead by the Lao Peoples Revolutionary Party. The city offers charm, regal buildings, lush green walkways, great foo and excellent wine.

Mekong River Villages

2011-01-11T18:07:00.001-08:00

Remote Mekong Village
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Basic dwellings that are grey and brown against the vibrant green of the jungle. Dirt pathways weave up and down the riverbank from and to various households. I think about the next comfortable guesthouse we have arranged to stay in and wonder how on earth do these people manage to live in the jungle with so little – how humbling and oh so much there is to learn.

How Beautiful!

2011-01-11T18:02:00.001-08:00

Interesting Clothing
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

The second day of our river journey was long - eight hours in the wind and cool damp air. A pregnant woman lies down near the front of the boat on the floor. I cover her with a blanket from my pack. Hours pass by before our long boat slows down to stop along a sandbar. I look up and see the most striking woman dressed in a beautiful traditional outfit. Her stature and striking presence is so inspiring.

Mekong Children

2011-01-11T18:00:00.001-08:00

Mekong Kids
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

As we pass villages en-route to Luang Prabang we see many children. Some have bright wide smiles, some are curious and others just watch our boat go by without really noticing we are there.

River Highway

2011-01-11T17:51:00.001-08:00

Boat Crew
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

The Mekong is a major transportation route into the interior of Laos. Huge freighter boats, long boats of every description, dug out canoes work their way up and down the river from one village to the next.

Mekong Fisherman

2011-01-11T17:49:00.001-08:00

Throw Net
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

The Mekong sustains hundreds of villages and thousands of people along its banks. Crops are grown along the shoreline, fisherman set nets from rocky points, people pan for gold, others bath and wash laundry. Mile after mile we witness how the Laos people are dependent on the mighty Mekong River.

Slow boat to Pak Beng

2011-01-11T17:47:00.001-08:00

Slow Boats
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

We buy our ticket at the dock for the 10:00 AM departure to Pak Beng. The seating on the long boat is first come first serve – the earlier you get on the boat the more likely you will find a seat. 12:00 noon approaches and the last passenger boards. We are packed on the boat like a can of sardines and we are only two hours behind schedule for our 7 hour journey!

Huay Xai (Hoksay) Laos

2011-01-11T17:43:00.001-08:00

Huay Xai along Mekong
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

The mighty Mekong River divides Thailand and Laos. We leave Chiang Khong in Thailand and cross the river to Laos. Hoksay has one long street with guesthouses, a few restaurants, and people trying to sell overpriced tickets for the long boat to Luang Prabang. Our first cash withdraw is 700,000.00 Kip. How much is that you ask? Ummmmmm about $88.00 dollars!

Wat Rong Khun (White Wat)

2011-01-11T17:39:00.001-08:00

White Temple
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

The construction of this magnificent temple started in 1997. The entire outside is white washed with inlayed clear-mirrored chips. The striking difference from this temple to others we have see is how the architect and artist depicts the worlds modern struggles along with ancient Buddha drawings. Spiderman, bombs, missiles, spaceships, war, electronic devices are all carefully depicted in the wall murals.

Chiang Doa Town

2011-01-11T17:35:00.001-08:00

Rural Chiang Dao
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Nestled in the valley far below Doi Luang Chiang Dao Mountain is the town of Chiang Doa. It is surrounded by terraced fields, jungle, and to the south a river. We find it easily accessible by bicycle and the street market provided an amazing display of absolutely delicious local food. YUP – we definitely like the place – ALLOTT!

Karen Village Rice Fields

2011-01-11T17:32:00.001-08:00

Rice Field
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

We follow the river valley through beautiful rice fields. The backdrop is stunning against the rich green jungle and the towering mountains. A very special place indeed!

Simple Accomodation

2011-01-11T17:29:00.001-08:00

Karen Village Accomodation
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

We continue to hike up steep hillsides and down slippery rocky paths. By the end of the day we arrive in another Karen Village. It is located in an absolutely stunning valley. Tired and sore we are taken to our accommodation by the river. It is basically a platform with three bamboo walls. The front is open to the river. We sleep on a thin pad on a bamboo floor with a few blankets to cover ourselves. I ask our guide “are there many snakes here” he smiles broadly and says “oh yes, many – they are good to eat! Great I think and wonder if one will join us in our shelter tonight……..

Shaman

2011-01-11T17:26:00.001-08:00

Shaman of Karen Village
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

We visit the home of the village shaman and he invites us to sit down for tea and share fruit that is both sweet and sour. He crouches down in front of me and takes my hand. He rubs my fingers, adjusts my wrist and blows on my arm. Once he feels he has done what is needed he ties a colorful woven bracelet onto my wrist.

Karen Village – Pig Feast Preparation

2011-01-11T17:24:00.001-08:00

Karen Village Feast Preparation
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Women who are beautifully dressed butcher a pig in preparation for a New Year’s feast. Children play, tables are prepared and men gather to play a game with hand made bows and arrows.

Lisu Village – New Years House Blessing

2011-01-11T17:22:00.001-08:00

New Years Blessing Lisu Village
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Bang! Bang! Fireworks explode into the evening sky for hours from various locations in the jungle village. We are told on this night people from the Lisu village gather to dance, play music, and bring good luck to each house for the New Year. Sure enough, around 11:00 PM, we are aroused from our restless sleep. Through the cracks of our bamboo shelter I can see people dancing around a light to the music of a single musician playing a flute like instrument. We venture out and before I can tie my shoe a woman’s hand reaches out and pulls me into the circle. We dance, drink spirits, and laugh together until it is time for the group to leave for the next house.

The Waterfalls

2011-01-11T16:31:00.001-08:00

Waterfall
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Quietly we trek through the jungle following a stream. The trail becomes more and more challenging as we climb over rocks and boulders to reach the waterfall. Even though I found the hike somewhat challenging, and fell into the stream, it was a very beautiful spot.

The Cave

2011-01-11T16:29:00.001-08:00

Cave Entrance
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Our guide provides us with two white hard hats and with our trusty headlamps we head into the entrance of the pitch-black expanse of cavernous chambers deep in the mountain. It feels cool, drafty; insects and spiders scurry about dodging any beam of light. We creep along the floor of the cave and go down steeper areas by makeshift bamboo ladders. Other than our hard hats – no safety regulations here!

Nancy asking for directions

2011-01-11T16:26:00.001-08:00

Lisu Village
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

After eating the absolute best banana pineapple crepe breakfast we organize our gear to start the first day of our trek. Climbing into the back of a truck we drive into the park and up Doi Luang Chiang Doa Mountain for about 10 miles. We are dropped off on the side of the road and told to follow the trail to the first village and ask for Mr. Chai. As we arrive in the first village and say “Mr. Chai – Mr. Chai” people politely smile and point us through the village and out the other side. In the distance we see the next village and head towards it along the path. As we approach a woman carrying a large basket we ask again “Mr. Chai”. She hand signals us to follow her and takes us to a small hut and points for us to sit down. This is where we wait until our guide shows up. The funny thing is no one knows who Mr. Chai is.

Chiang Mai Impressions

2011-01-01T20:35:00.001-08:00

Spires
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Ancient, slow paced, green, relaxing, beautiful, massages, international gateway to the mountains. Loved it!.

New Years Eve Chiang Mai

2011-01-01T20:31:00.001-08:00

Fireworks 2010 Chiang Mai
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

The main artery that leads to the old city is blocked from traffic and filled with craft venders and pedestrians. At the end of the street, on a giant stage with screens overhead, an Asian pop band entertains the masses as girls scream out encouragement. Following yet another street along a canal Nick asks if we are in a good spot to see the fireworks? As the clock strikes midnight the night sky erupts into colorful light and the display is directly over our heads – yes – we are in the perfect spot!

Chiang Mai Lanterns

2011-01-01T20:28:00.001-08:00

Releasing Lanterns
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

We emerge from our guesthouse around 10:00 PM and find the night sky filled with yellow and orange glowing light. I mention to Nick the stars look rather odd this evening – could it be the haze overhead – what is it? LANTERNS. Thousands of beautiful lit lanterns floating to endless heights in the dark sky lighting a path for New Years.

MBK

2011-01-01T20:25:00.001-08:00

Watching the watched
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

I have no idea what the MBK stands for other in my mind giant shopping center. This is only one of several giant malls in Siam Square district. Escalators move people in continuous orchestrated patterns to maximize the shopping experience. Giant cement walkways in the sky connect one shopping complex to another. My mission – find needle and thread to fix my pants – it took a bit of sleuthing and after considerable time we found a limited selection – go figure!

The Grand Palace and Wat Phra

2011-01-01T20:21:00.001-08:00

Yaksha
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

In one giant city block the magnificent buildings of the Grand Palace and Wat Phra are enclosed in huge stonewalls. Two giant sentinels, said to be brothers, guard the doorway of the Thai monarchs palace residence. The king spends time at the palace only on special ceremonial occasions. The beautiful and opulent Wat Phra houses the famous emerald Buddha that once resided in Chiang Mai.

Giant Reclining Buddha

2011-01-01T20:14:00.001-08:00

Sleeping Face
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Golden – Shimmering – Homage – Mother of Pearl inlay – Auspicious, Giant statue of magnificence! Lying 45 meters long by 15 meters high, reclining Buddha is meant to illustrate the passing of Buddha from life into death – the next world.

Bangkok - China Town

2011-01-01T20:10:00.001-08:00

Street Shopping in China Town
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

How much is too much? How many is too many? We throw ourselves into the reality of Siam Square – OH MY GOD! Sensory overload, human overload – streams of people shuffling up and down side streets filled beyond capacity. Can that be someone cooking on hot coals amidst this chaos? How do we miss not getting burned, having our toes run over by cars and motorcycles? When will it get quiet – maybe in our room, which looks onto rubble, graffiti, and street vendors? Still, in spite all of this – we find kindness.

Sunset Puerto Escondido

2010-12-01T19:36:00.001-08:00

Puerto Escondido
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

This is an absolutely wonderful and relaxing way to end a great day in Puerto Escondido.

Finding Nancy…

2010-12-01T19:34:00.001-08:00

Can you find Nancy
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

How long did it take you to pick Nancy out of the crowd?

Puerto Escondido

2010-12-01T19:32:00.001-08:00

Puerto Escondido - Sunday Fun
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

We arrived in Puerto Escondido during a fishing derby and beauty pageant. The beach was jam packed with families having an absolutely fabulous Sunday afternoon playing on the beach.

Mazunte Beach

2010-12-01T19:31:00.001-08:00

Mazunte - Nancy
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Mazunte is a lovely village on the pacific shores of Oaxaca. The beaches are stunningly beautiful.

Zipolite

2010-12-01T19:26:00.001-08:00

Beach Bums
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Is that a bear naked bum!

Zapotec Shaman

2010-12-01T19:18:00.001-08:00

Maria Sabina - Healer
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Mushrooms, Marijuana, all for the spiritual quest…….. The jungle holds many mind and body journeys. Many flock from the west for answers including many famous musicians. Hmmm, what were they looking for?

Cable Bridge

2010-12-01T19:16:00.001-08:00

Boys on Cable Bridge in Mtns
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

The boys playing on this cable bridge are having so much fun swimming, teasing, and hanging around. At one time this cable bridge was the only way the people had to cross the river – now there is a bridge.

Just Beach

2010-12-01T19:10:00.001-08:00

Huatulco
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Hot, nesting turtles, really hot, long, long stretches of beach…

Huatulco – Agua Azul

2010-12-01T19:08:00.001-08:00

Aqua Azul - Great B&B
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

We reached Huatulco after an 8-hour bus ride through the mountains from Oaxaca City. Our retreat was Agua Azul, owned and operated by Richard and Brooke Gazer. They offer their home as a B&B but really it is a truly peaceful sanctuary that is beautiful and incredibly relaxing. Perfect in every way I’d say…

Teotitlan Del Valley

2010-12-01T18:59:00.001-08:00

Naturally dyed yarn
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

One day I strolled into a small shop, off a street in Oaxaca city, and met Janet Chavez. She is a very proud and very talented weaver in her own right from the village of Teotitlan. Speaking with such passion, respect and admiration of her father and grandfathers work, Janet showed me her families weaving and invited us to her studio. The hand dyed wool created from plant fiber to cochineal cactus parasite is absolutely beautiful.

El Tule

2010-12-01T18:55:00.001-08:00

Tule - Cypress Tree
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

This Cypress tree is said to be 2,000 years old and towers 15 stories above the village of Santa Maria del Tule.

Yagul – Archaeological Site

2010-12-01T18:51:00.001-08:00

Maise
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Due to the incomplete excavation of this site it has remained simple in its exposure but dramatic and completely breathtaking in its presence.

Revolutionaries!

2010-12-01T18:47:00.001-08:00

Revolution - November 22
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

November 22 is the anniversary of the Mexican revolution. The Museo de la Culturas de Oaxaca has an outstanding black and white photo exhibition depicting the peoples struggle.

Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca

2010-12-01T18:43:00.001-08:00

Decorated Skull in Jade from Monte Alban
Originally uploaded by Aishihik

Treasure from Monte Alban tomb number 7 – Why was it so important to adorn this skull with Jade? Who was this person?! WOW!!!