tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13336754211245007922024-03-14T05:58:08.288-04:00Thumbs Up Traveller”I can tell you from experience the effect you have on others is the most valuable currency there is.” - Jim CarreyAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.comBlogger73125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-42023973142516790632016-07-14T10:08:00.000-04:002016-07-14T10:08:38.138-04:00Updated blog to my serverHi All, Please update your links to my new blog URL and location. All of my new post from here on in, will be at this location.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://blog.robkruis.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-large;">http://blog.robkruis.com/</span></a><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-69981259152885969552016-05-08T20:12:00.000-04:002016-05-10T20:17:16.433-04:00Why I left, What I learned, Why am I coming back?I have been back in Canada just over 3 weeks and I finally can start to relax. I didn't think coming back would be this awkward or difficult, but it was. Anyways, before I get into that, I want to answer the 3 questions everyone keeps asking.<br />
<br />
1. Why did I leave.<br />
2. What did I learn, did I accomplish what I set out to do?<br />
3. Why did I come back so early?<br />
<br />
<b>Why did I leave!</b> I left for one major reason. I was unhappy and becoming angry with life. I knew there was more to living, and wanted to find it.<br />
<br />
A few years back I was working as a team lead, and got promoted to take over for the director of development, but with the title Technical Operations Manager. This new role did not cancel out my old responsibilities, they just added the new ones. In other words, I was basically working two jobs. My work day went from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm, to 7 am to 6:30 pm and weekend work became more frequent. Oh, and don't forget I only got 10 days off a year. So, after doing this for over 3 years, and never taking a week off, I took a week off and went to Dominican Republic for a well needed vacation and guess what. The company tried calling me, but with no luck. My stress level never lowered.<br />
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Not getting time off was only half the story at this job. Everyone hated working there, and all I ever heard was negative things about the company and to add to it, the owner LOVED to yell and degrade people. What an amazing position I was in.<br />
<br />
Shortly after my vacation, I realized the last 15 years I have been over worked, and I hated life. I knew I had to change something, and that change started by giving my 4 weeks notice to leave this company. This did not go over well, and the company found out who my next employer was. They actually called my new employer trying to negotiate with them my start date behind my back. They wanted 6 months notice. <br />
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Even quieting, my stress seemed to never end.<br />
<br />
Anyways, after 6 weeks of shit, I was finally at the new job. I was very clear when taking this new position that I was through with bad attitudes and working 55 or more hours a week.<br />
<br />
Guess what, within 2 weeks at the new company I realized they were the exact same, and in some cases even worse. I tolerated this for 5 months and then we came to an agreement with them. <br />
<br />
I was leaving again, but this time I was going to take my sweet time looking for a new job and no longer cared about making 6 figures a year. Money was no longer a concern, only happiness was.<br />
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It took 5 weeks, and I found an amazing position in Kingston. My boss and the people I worked with turned out to be truly amazing. Sweet and honest in all areas. A big bonus was 7.5 hours a day, 5 days a week and 15 days off a year. This could be my new life!<br />
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The only downside was I took a 70% pay cut. The salary I was now making is way more than good enough, but my current expenses were based on what I had been making the last 5 years.<br />
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I didn't want to leave this job, as it was awesome, but I knew I had to change my assets to match my new income. So I decided to list and sell my house, including all of my other major assets.<br />
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My house and assets sold within week. This was great, but I kept thinking I needed more and decided to browse the internet to see where at my young age, I could possibly work. This was a dream, but why not look.<br />
<br />
Well, I couldn't believe it, I have always wanted to go to New Zealand, and for Canadians I could get a 2 year work-travel Visa for up to 2 years. I wasn't planning on leaving, but right at that exact moment, something happened. I just payed for the visa and wrote my resignation letter. <br />
<br />
Maybe this was the change I needed, to get away from all of the negativity, and excessive work hours, and start completely over. Maybe I would end up living in New Zealand, or maybe I will just visit there and then continue traveling. This was the last major step in pushing me to leave.<br />
<br />
So the reason I left was partially a fluke, part me being over stressed, but more so, I wanted to find myself, too learn how to be a better person and find out how others stay happy. I wanted to meet every walk of life and be a bit selfish and learn from them. Obviously working like a mad man, making tones of money, doesn't do it. <i>What does?</i><br />
<br />
<b>What did I learn the last 5 months! </b> Well, I already knew that people can be happy in the worst conditions, but I got to see it close up again and for longer periods of time. I met people who had more wealth than I could ever imagine, and I met people who had nothing, and worked 12 hours a day with only 2 days a month off, who were happier than I have been in the past. This really sunk in that happiness is what you make it. <i>It isn't given to you, you make it happen!!!</i><br />
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I learned that <i>how you look, truly means nothing</i>. I used to be extremely shy with how I look. I hated taking off my shirt at the beach, because I thought I was too fat. And if you know me, I was very critical of others on how they looked. A person who was over weight I would always made ignorant comments about them and I don't know why. I hate people who make fun of others. <br />
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How did traveling help me in this area. Well, I can tell you one story about a pretty hot Aussie girl I hung out with, said to me one day. "<i>Who the FUCK cares what others think about how I look! This is what I was given, this is what I am going show. Like it, or don't look.</i>". <br />
<br />
During the time I hung out with her, I was also living with 3 other young girls ranging between 18 and 28. Myself being 36, not once did they question my age, make me feel old, or comment on my looks. They all treated me like a human being, and for the most part, I forgot I was much older than them.<br />
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I started to notice this was true everywhere. I met tons of younger and older people in 7 different countries, and never once was I made to feel bad about how I look. This really hit me, and being around positive people, I noticed I lost those negative thoughts myself.<br />
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So, one thing I learned was, <b>who cares about how you look , or how someone else look, the only thing that matters is that you are a good person inside.</b><br />
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What else did I learn. Well not caring about how others look, removes stress, and this is one step closer to being a better, happier person.<br />
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The next thing I learned was that Canadians, seem to think money is the world. Well, it is NOT. Living is! I will never take another job because of the salary I am going to earn, and I am definitely not going to start working 55 - 70 hours a week again. Who the hell wants to be 70 years old regret not doing something because you had to work. No one has ever regretted enjoying life, but many have regretted working to much.<br />
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So the next thing I learned is <b>life comes before work, plain and simple!</b><br />
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The last big question, <b>why did I come back!</b> This isn't a straight forward answer, and has many parts, but I am going to try and make it short and simple.<br />
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One of the reasons, is my backpacks are way to heavy and I am not packed right. I want to fix this.<br />
<br />
Another small reason, is my laptop is messed up and I can't work on my Knob Apps company while traveling. This is something I enjoy and wanted to be able to do. Another small one is I left to quickly and have some small things to take care of here, such as dental, address changes, etc. These are easier to fix from Canada.<br />
<br />
Those are some small things, and here are the larger reasons.<br />
<br />
I had all four grandparents alive, but one of them is very close to his end. I felt guilty for not being here. This is unlike me, as I have never felt sad, or cared when someone I know has passed on. I have always said, its life. Move on! But this time was not the same, I felt guilty and I don't know why, but I knew I had to come back.<br />
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Well, with good luck, I made it home 1 week before my grandfather passed away. He was 90 years old and one hell of an amazing guy. I will miss his smile and sense of humor. <br />
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I only have one picture of him and I, from about 15 years ago and the other picture is from when he was 17. Damn good looking guy! He will be missed.<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-feEeKPMpKdU/VzIoe0dxxZI/AAAAAAAABgs/t3jxfepaK4wjYIRauwlbKn7wA4WmFKT2QCK4B/s1600/MeGrandpaGrandma.png" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TIK6KYqeWr8/VzIomRl3eWI/AAAAAAAABg0/1Ys2Q8zKR_UuzpkMbK3qNYeyC16YPh8QgCK4B/s1600/20160417_110124.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TIK6KYqeWr8/VzIomRl3eWI/AAAAAAAABg0/1Ys2Q8zKR_UuzpkMbK3qNYeyC16YPh8QgCK4B/s320/20160417_110124.jpg" width="180" /></a><img border="0" height="294" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-feEeKPMpKdU/VzIoe0dxxZI/AAAAAAAABgs/t3jxfepaK4wjYIRauwlbKn7wA4WmFKT2QCK4B/s320/MeGrandpaGrandma.png" width="320" /><br />
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There are some other reasons, but they are too small and not worth mentioning.<br />
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This is my last post until I head out again, which I hope will be in a few months. Take care all!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VP_WoVJPzfM/VzJ5lHe_ebI/AAAAAAAABhI/Jm318ujkdoUy_KY8l5QDMfzL5yhTr5ASwCK4B/s1600/20160507_141733.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VP_WoVJPzfM/VzJ5lHe_ebI/AAAAAAAABhI/Jm318ujkdoUy_KY8l5QDMfzL5yhTr5ASwCK4B/s320/20160507_141733.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com3Lansdowne, ON K0E, Canada44.4057559 -76.0182618999999721.253317400000004 -117.32685589999997 67.5581944 -34.709667899999971tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-75150156625928180892016-04-12T11:28:00.000-04:002016-04-20T12:23:48.369-04:00Toronto - And Beyond - Final Destination8 am and Peter and I are off to the airport, where I catch my first flight to Dublin, and then onto Toronto, and then home.<br />
<br />
When I arrive at the airport, I check in and give one last goodbye to Peter. I thank him for spoiling me during the last week. I will miss him and cannot wait to see Peter again in September.<br />
<br />
My flight to Dublin was short and nice. I think it was just over an hour.<br />
<br />
The Dublin airport is really nice and has lots of cool things to look at. I bought some Dublin Whiskey Chocolate, and had a pint of Guinness while I wait for my next flight. I know that I will come back to Dublin for some great beers and to see Stonehenge. Oh yes, and to laugh at their accents. The few I talked to in the airport made me smile.<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VJpvAtos5aU/VxeqgR3XxmI/AAAAAAAABfo/5oQsyG5EZmIe1xO8C9ZpmBhBtzxQMoCzgCK4B/s1600/20160412_122224.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VJpvAtos5aU/VxeqgR3XxmI/AAAAAAAABfo/5oQsyG5EZmIe1xO8C9ZpmBhBtzxQMoCzgCK4B/s320/20160412_122224.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Anyways, my next flight is the big one, 7 hours to Toronto, but I am now a pro at these long flights.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fJXRJ5AOp1w/Vxeqxe0E0-I/AAAAAAAABf4/QDZy7CjwkK0jOuwNvY-LANt9Ze1pqseNACK4B/s1600/20160412_123217_Richtone%2528HDR%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fJXRJ5AOp1w/Vxeqxe0E0-I/AAAAAAAABf4/QDZy7CjwkK0jOuwNvY-LANt9Ze1pqseNACK4B/s320/20160412_123217_Richtone%2528HDR%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cxW7IZPSZN4/Vxeq1-yvnnI/AAAAAAAABgA/l6iFRmWQKYIsQuWcEwy7qv2_frtOh-k9gCK4B/s1600/20160412_153550.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cxW7IZPSZN4/Vxeq1-yvnnI/AAAAAAAABgA/l6iFRmWQKYIsQuWcEwy7qv2_frtOh-k9gCK4B/s320/20160412_153550.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
6 hours later, we are flying over Ottawa, and it hits me, I am flying home! I get anxiety and start to wonder why am I coming home so early, are my excuses valid as to why I am coming home? I don't have the answers, all I know is I have anxiety and don't like the feeling.<br />
<br />
All in all the flight home wasn't bad. I didn't sleep but I did watch a few movies and made notes on my phone about my trip. Surprisingly it went by fast and I was now in Toronto going through customs.<br />
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Customs was the same old customs, "How long will you be here?", "Until I leave again, I live here!".<br />
<br />
"Why do you have a beard now?", "Because I am lazy?".<br />
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"You look a lot different from your passport picture!", "Yes, it is 4 years old and I get older everyday, unfortunately I have age!"<br />
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And that was about it, he didn't ask me if I have weapons, drugs, or booze. Meh, I am in Canada now.<br />
<br />
I head out of the airport and catch the Union Express train to Union station in Toronto, where I then catch the Go Train to Whitby. I booked a hotel here because it was much cheaper than anywhere else, and it is also on the way out of Toronto. A great place to start my hitching hiking home.<br />
<br />
The next morning I check out of the hotel at 7:30 am and walk over to the West bound on ramp of the 401 to see if I can catch a ride.<br />
<br />
20 minutes goes by and a truck pulls up.<br />
<br />
Alan and his dog are on their way to a job site in Bowmanville. This is just outside of Toronto, and I think it is a good place to catch my second ride. So I jump in.<br />
<br />
Alan and I have a great conversation about Brockville. He loves it here and has been there several times.<br />
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Not long later he drops me off at the on ramp in Bowmanville. I say thank you and goodbye to another new friend.<br />
<br />
Well, 2.5 hours passes and not a single car even gives a look at me. I know this isn't going to happen, and I don't see much around. My cell phone doesn't have a SIM card, because Toronto Airport doesn't have cell phone providers. BTW, this is the ONLY airport I have been in that doesn't sell travel sims for tourist. <i>WTF, CANADA!, get with the times!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
So I can't look on google maps to see what is around. I just start walking north to the town. About a kilometer away, there is a Tim Horton's. This is great, they have Wifi.<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KxGSuS-C1Pk/Vxeqoz1HV4I/AAAAAAAABfw/KdZMmtqum2gVf7IEofd1gOKK1cyKxYK2wCK4B/s1600/20160412_184646.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KxGSuS-C1Pk/Vxeqoz1HV4I/AAAAAAAABfw/KdZMmtqum2gVf7IEofd1gOKK1cyKxYK2wCK4B/s320/20160412_184646.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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I use the Wifi and see there is no buses and trains. My next option is to walk 5 kilometers to a car rental place or go back to trying to hitchhike, but I think I have given up on that one.<br />
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An hour later of carrying two backpacks, I arrive in the area I though the car rental place was, but there is nothing. It is a business park. Remember, I don't have internet, so I can't google it.<br />
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I take another guess and walk down a side street, looking for people. I find two ladies standing outside and ask them if there is a car rental place. They point towards another street and I walk that way. A few minutes later I see Enterprise and 2 cars. <br />
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With luck, the one car is available. I rent it and am off to Kingston to find a car to buy.<br />
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On my drive to Kingston it hits me again. I get anxiety and realize I am worried that I will find a job and not leave, and that I will fall back into my old self. Unhappy, angry, and mean. I don't want to loose everything I have gained while traveling. This is why I am getting anxiety, it isn't because I don't want to be home.<br />
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Well, I make it to Kingston and look at a few cars. None of them are any good. <br />
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I head over to the gas station where my sister works to say hi. She tells me she is done at 5 pm and she can come take a look at the next car together. <br />
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5 pm is here, I pick her up and head over to the car. It is a vintage 1996 Honda Odyssey, and is in decent shape for $750 CAD. I take another quick look at it decide to take it.<br />
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I now have a car and just need to get it safetied, which should be easy as it just passed a check 60 days ago. The e-test is already done, so I don't need that.<br />
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I drop off my sister and head over to Dave's. I am mooching off of him tonight :) but they think I am awesome so it is all good.<br />
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Seeing Dave and his family is great. Not much has changed, and we just hangout for the night and catch up.<br />
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Well, I am back, I just now have to say hi to everyone and figure out what I am doing. At the moment my first step is to get my car on the road legally and to see my grandfather, as he is probably not going to be in this world much longer.<br />
<br />
Hi All! My next post will be the last one!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Toronto, ON, Canada43.653226 -79.38318429999998243.653226 -79.383184299999982 43.653226 -79.383184299999982tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-63767730645014206332016-04-11T10:23:00.000-04:002016-04-20T11:04:10.636-04:00Alphen - Last full day in the Netherland'sOn the last day, I wanted to pay Peter back for all his hospitality, by taking him out for lunch. I know this doesn't really equal all the things he has done for me, but at least it is a start.<br />
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Peter suggest we go to a lake not far away, where they do water sports. I guess they have cable tows, that pull water skiers across the water. Sounds pretty cool.<br />
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On the way to the lake, Peter says, "<i>We should rent a boat for an hour or so and go through the canals.</i>" This is a great idea. A few minutes later we are at the boat rental place.<br />
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The canal boat is electric with a steering arm at the back. Pretty simple. <br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H9Lr07qIw_U/VxeVpnJkSTI/AAAAAAAABec/rK4aopXTETMpkTI6zF1UtxAQGzIpc2rLwCK4B/s1600/20160411_123742.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H9Lr07qIw_U/VxeVpnJkSTI/AAAAAAAABec/rK4aopXTETMpkTI6zF1UtxAQGzIpc2rLwCK4B/s320/20160411_123742.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Peter calls me "<i>Captain</i>!" and I know this means. You are driving! The first 3 minutes goes smooth and I hit nothing. Already a Pro at Canal Boats. LOL.<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YBHl5OIDwxQ/VxeVdDpDCWI/AAAAAAAABeU/S6ps-vj4FYgUn-Pv6wcW3eNFfAritXoVwCK4B/s1600/20160411_124059.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YBHl5OIDwxQ/VxeVdDpDCWI/AAAAAAAABeU/S6ps-vj4FYgUn-Pv6wcW3eNFfAritXoVwCK4B/s320/20160411_124059.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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The Canal ride takes a little longer than expected because of the down wind and lack of power in the electric boat, however, it is an amazing day. One of the cool things is some of the bridges are just not high enough, so we have to jump off the boat and wench up and down the bridge, by hand. <br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aengeGBzs6M/VxeWrBcBJLI/AAAAAAAABfM/bTEH7okGxaI4o2aurNe37QNYVH8KFUlvACK4B/s1600/20160411_131803.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aengeGBzs6M/VxeWrBcBJLI/AAAAAAAABfM/bTEH7okGxaI4o2aurNe37QNYVH8KFUlvACK4B/s320/20160411_131803.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N2NmKmiwn_k/VxeWre6H5LI/AAAAAAAABfU/vWyjdDivsj04-yzMOwvpjllHA6nwgE05QCK4B/s1600/20160411_134958.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N2NmKmiwn_k/VxeWre6H5LI/AAAAAAAABfU/vWyjdDivsj04-yzMOwvpjllHA6nwgE05QCK4B/s320/20160411_134958.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MdPW4ow2TaI/VxeWgNHK63I/AAAAAAAABe8/Ld5azGEx8ecq39i8Gbba2p0reiEZ1I_WQCK4B/s1600/20160411_133915.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MdPW4ow2TaI/VxeWgNHK63I/AAAAAAAABe8/Ld5azGEx8ecq39i8Gbba2p0reiEZ1I_WQCK4B/s320/20160411_133915.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ay9BbR7Y348/VxeWAeARj8I/AAAAAAAABeo/bslm2qpDyooLfRlwJl-xMVFGBx7wLuBsACK4B/s1600/20160411_133407.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ay9BbR7Y348/VxeWAeARj8I/AAAAAAAABeo/bslm2qpDyooLfRlwJl-xMVFGBx7wLuBsACK4B/s320/20160411_133407.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mgrVf5f0RKs/VxeWl4AkqyI/AAAAAAAABfE/sXXQdFYIvTUMt8gDw0V7O89CMA3EJDe3gCK4B/s1600/20160411_133356.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mgrVf5f0RKs/VxeWl4AkqyI/AAAAAAAABfE/sXXQdFYIvTUMt8gDw0V7O89CMA3EJDe3gCK4B/s320/20160411_133356.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A8v69-EfOWk/VxeWAxdP-KI/AAAAAAAABew/fJkNlE0Lfyo2kAyZej8VIOvecgIW2ynOQCK4B/s1600/20160411_141546.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A8v69-EfOWk/VxeWAxdP-KI/AAAAAAAABew/fJkNlE0Lfyo2kAyZej8VIOvecgIW2ynOQCK4B/s320/20160411_141546.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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I can't thank Peter enough for this adventure, as it is one of the best parts of my week stay here. I really loved it.<br />
<br />
We are now starving and head over to the lake for lunch. Unfortunately, it is still too cool for water skiers, but the view is amazing. Food was pretty damn good as well.<br />
<br />
Later that evening Karin, and Marielle stop by for a last goodbye. It was really nice seeing them again, and I can't wait to see them again.<br />
<br />
Well tomorrow I am off to Toronto, then onto home. Goodbye Family and Holland! I can't wait to come back again.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Alphen aan den Rijn, Netherlands52.1276577 4.668850799999972952.0496797 4.5074892999999729 52.2056357 4.8302122999999728tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-90411449782655288432016-04-10T07:57:00.000-04:002016-04-17T08:14:28.838-04:00Netherlands - Visiting FamilyIn the Netherlands I have family from my Dad's side scattered all over and today I get to visit my distant cousin Honey and her husband Lex, They are going to take me around the city they live in and then after her son August and his family will stop by for dinner.<br />
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I have not seen Honey since I was 12 years old and I am not sure if I will recognize her at all, but I was wrong. When she opened the door I could definitely see a familiar face. Maybe a little older, but I still remember her. She tells me, she sees the same in me. Wow. This is truly amazing, that someone you have not seen in 24 years you can still remember them.<br />
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This is my first time meeting Lex and my first impression is he is a really nice guy. Speaks very good English as well, which makes for getting to know each other a lot easier.<br />
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Before we head out on the town, we have a quick bite to eat. A traditional dutch lunch of fresh cheese and bread. I am really starting to love this type of food.<br />
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The city they live in has a lot of old buildings from 1500's, and I love this. In Canada, we have very few structures older than 1930's.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iZjBlci61h0/VxDVlox504I/AAAAAAAABdk/Rdl_16JocSQsNID30eYXOFDD8MENnL5WgCK4B/s1600/20160410_135941.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iZjBlci61h0/VxDVlox504I/AAAAAAAABdk/Rdl_16JocSQsNID30eYXOFDD8MENnL5WgCK4B/s320/20160410_135941.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LF0j8389NFk/VxDVp5yxJBI/AAAAAAAABds/ug9kuhE_MZAkTih0G6DMLvGJfv1ASrD5gCK4B/s1600/20160410_135724.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LF0j8389NFk/VxDVp5yxJBI/AAAAAAAABds/ug9kuhE_MZAkTih0G6DMLvGJfv1ASrD5gCK4B/s320/20160410_135724.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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One of the places we visiting is a church that was first built sometime during the 1400's and took a few hundread years to build. I can't even image how they would build something like this without cranes and heavy equipment like we use now.<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JrjncMldvE8/VxDVeTaxSMI/AAAAAAAABdc/-Wz1aLsn8YwWGfm-yx2y1oE_dptkhzmwgCK4B/s1600/20160410_142116.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JrjncMldvE8/VxDVeTaxSMI/AAAAAAAABdc/-Wz1aLsn8YwWGfm-yx2y1oE_dptkhzmwgCK4B/s320/20160410_142116.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gFbfCJaofbc/VxDVt8srqlI/AAAAAAAABd0/Rhr9OycCKokV706ugekKRavR_fZAtMlwACK4B/s1600/20160410_140634.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gFbfCJaofbc/VxDVt8srqlI/AAAAAAAABd0/Rhr9OycCKokV706ugekKRavR_fZAtMlwACK4B/s320/20160410_140634.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ryaS9dVuoos/VxDVLpl-fHI/AAAAAAAABdU/Q2V4u_rqbuQwr5lkyXmsHVdWu7u3Y9b4QCK4B/s1600/20160410_140857.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ryaS9dVuoos/VxDVLpl-fHI/AAAAAAAABdU/Q2V4u_rqbuQwr5lkyXmsHVdWu7u3Y9b4QCK4B/s320/20160410_140857.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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There are also canal rides which go through the town and under the buildings. This would have been pretty cool to do, but there is a 2 month waiting list. Next time!<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xUqTsdY4BoI/VxDV0X6JzuI/AAAAAAAABeA/R9viIWPmhasYLJCYW9U1RckH9UJ3LOi5ACK4B/s1600/20160410_145151.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xUqTsdY4BoI/VxDV0X6JzuI/AAAAAAAABeA/R9viIWPmhasYLJCYW9U1RckH9UJ3LOi5ACK4B/s320/20160410_145151.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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The tour through the city was pretty cool but I am starving, so we head back to meet with August.<br />
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August, his wife, and 3 kids arrive shortly after we do. August and I have have not seen each other in 24 years, but I have seen him on Facebook. So it is to no surprise I recognize him.<br />
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We have lots of time before dinner, which gives me the chance to get to know August and his wife better. Very shortly into our conversation, I realize I wish I kept better contact with August. He is a really great guy.<br />
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It's dinner time and Honey has cooked a traditional Indonesian dish, which I love. Rice, with Peanut sauce and veggies. Life can't get better than this!<br />
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Not long after dinner Peter arrives to pick me up and I say goodbye to some old and now again new friends / family.<br />
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What a great day!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Netherlands52.132633 5.291265999999950549.638041 0.12769199999995084 54.627224999999996 10.454839999999951tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-18113944757921419992016-04-08T19:24:00.000-04:002016-04-14T19:24:39.886-04:00Amsterdam - Canal boats, great food and even better company!Peter and I got up early so we can beat the long line at the Anne Frank house. <br />
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Well, it opens at 9 am and we arrived at 9 am. The lineup was around the corner and down the block and around another corner. My estimate is well over 2 hours, maybe even 3 and since I am only in Amsterdam this one last day, I decided this was not that important. I can come back and do it again someday.<br />
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Next time we will arrive at 8 am!<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QMh1HULHh7A/Vw6jK0FQ-lI/AAAAAAAABbw/e0R-1UUJ_m402CCqrSHvvZm8JmC_npJ3wCK4B/s1600/20160409_093403.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QMh1HULHh7A/Vw6jK0FQ-lI/AAAAAAAABbw/e0R-1UUJ_m402CCqrSHvvZm8JmC_npJ3wCK4B/s320/20160409_093403.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
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Peter and I know have to kill time until 1 pm when the girls arrive. By girls, I mean Peter's two girls and their mom.<br />
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Marije you met in my last post, and her older sister Marielle who you have not yet met. Marielle is pretty cool girl just like her younger sister. She is taller than me, and loves shoes. I don't mean a little love, I mean, her room is filled with them. lol. But who is counting (30+) shoes, right?<br />
<i>I don't know why, but this is the only picture I have of her. She is beside me.</i><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4AeHgLGoyD4/Vw6igL7oiPI/AAAAAAAABbY/dpHakcPISUIbIceZjUKGvdB45p5w7zlYQCK4B/s1600/20160409_140623.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4AeHgLGoyD4/Vw6igL7oiPI/AAAAAAAABbY/dpHakcPISUIbIceZjUKGvdB45p5w7zlYQCK4B/s320/20160409_140623.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Karin their mom is a lot like the older sister Marielle. She dresses very nice and always looks her best. Unlike me, who gets up and says, yeah, this will do! Oh wait, pants. Now we are good. <br />
<i>Karin and I relaxing on a Canal ride.</i><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eg864wNgigQ/Vw6iR9nuuvI/AAAAAAAABbQ/DrSPYg-ZmFc_ADJdQa7zPRqtU0_F4metACK4B/s1600/20160409_142547.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eg864wNgigQ/Vw6iR9nuuvI/AAAAAAAABbQ/DrSPYg-ZmFc_ADJdQa7zPRqtU0_F4metACK4B/s320/20160409_142547.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Anyways, while Peter and I are wasting time, he introduced me to Amsterdam's best Apple pie, and yes, it was just that good.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k8VVn3IcRBU/Vw6i64CzwTI/AAAAAAAABbk/0KWrFzhu6JIKYE6KHgP0Kbpuc7Pzrx-ywCK4B/s1600/20160409_100515.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k8VVn3IcRBU/Vw6i64CzwTI/AAAAAAAABbk/0KWrFzhu6JIKYE6KHgP0Kbpuc7Pzrx-ywCK4B/s320/20160409_100515.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Then we walked for a while to burn off the 1,000,000,000 calories we just consumed. We checked out some cool cheese shops, and one of the daily markets, where you could get some yummy dutch food and items.<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I-mAQnJLQ1A/Vw6jeO7jGYI/AAAAAAAABb4/gLzHY-hpECErpHBHKgJrZvudp31KrmLxgCK4B/s1600/20160409_095602.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I-mAQnJLQ1A/Vw6jeO7jGYI/AAAAAAAABb4/gLzHY-hpECErpHBHKgJrZvudp31KrmLxgCK4B/s320/20160409_095602.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V1YRGppI7YI/Vw6jgtm1NeI/AAAAAAAABcM/mkuUdMLknqAVKUg_LWyZdkU3bvTIkrsuACK4B/s1600/20160409_094526.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V1YRGppI7YI/Vw6jgtm1NeI/AAAAAAAABcM/mkuUdMLknqAVKUg_LWyZdkU3bvTIkrsuACK4B/s320/20160409_094526.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LqljNwFnJUY/Vw6jf84L0NI/AAAAAAAABcE/5K-yArITZYUHn2DyqFPLO8ufuVr4wMXWgCK4B/s1600/20160409_121819.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LqljNwFnJUY/Vw6jf84L0NI/AAAAAAAABcE/5K-yArITZYUHn2DyqFPLO8ufuVr4wMXWgCK4B/s320/20160409_121819.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
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It's now 1 pm and the girls arrive. We have a quick drink and head to the canal for our Canal Boat Ride. This I am excited for,<br />
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I can't even explain all of the cool things we saw on the ride, but below are some pictures I took. The guide explained why the houses are slanted, and where people live and all kinds of cool facts. <br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qJkshnkiskA/VxAl-3pWBrI/AAAAAAAABc4/-oNHUlQzmqMDBlgFIajRpkdNirmGrt11ACK4B/s1600/20160409_142621.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qJkshnkiskA/VxAl-3pWBrI/AAAAAAAABc4/-oNHUlQzmqMDBlgFIajRpkdNirmGrt11ACK4B/s320/20160409_142621.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i_jZ02xCjwo/VxAl8gynG-I/AAAAAAAABcs/AStOjD641_0qDwH9Tq6bnqoJc41SY3GhQCK4B/s1600/20160409_144156.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i_jZ02xCjwo/VxAl8gynG-I/AAAAAAAABcs/AStOjD641_0qDwH9Tq6bnqoJc41SY3GhQCK4B/s320/20160409_144156.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b0oLN60cyN8/VxAlkUm_orI/AAAAAAAABcg/N1wgVXHqKGMsD2ac8D-vX0Cp05e0IwaAACK4B/s1600/20160409_144127.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b0oLN60cyN8/VxAlkUm_orI/AAAAAAAABcg/N1wgVXHqKGMsD2ac8D-vX0Cp05e0IwaAACK4B/s320/20160409_144127.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-flou0_Ureu4/VxAmAYcTD2I/AAAAAAAABdA/yahoCv4nqS0Z5fTx_gZARKKdfoLiOH6igCK4B/s1600/20160409_143323.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-flou0_Ureu4/VxAmAYcTD2I/AAAAAAAABdA/yahoCv4nqS0Z5fTx_gZARKKdfoLiOH6igCK4B/s320/20160409_143323.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GjJ8GBAQ-Lw/VxAl8jD_nCI/AAAAAAAABcw/9oVO6sCC6Kkup4iBIkHoz3-RJTGdYMh-QCK4B/s1600/20160409_143016.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GjJ8GBAQ-Lw/VxAl8jD_nCI/AAAAAAAABcw/9oVO6sCC6Kkup4iBIkHoz3-RJTGdYMh-QCK4B/s320/20160409_143016.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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After the boat ride, we spent a little more time walking about Amsterdam and then off for an amazing dinner at De Burgemeester. Again Peter treated us all. Someday I need to pay this guy back for spoiling me so much.<br />
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This was the end of another special day in Amsterdam with the best company I could ever ask for.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Amsterdam, Netherlands52.3702157 4.895167899999933152.2151137 4.5724443999999327 52.5253177 5.2178913999999335tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-72003986121487260512016-04-07T20:00:00.000-04:002016-04-12T20:06:51.324-04:00Rotterdam - Oh Marije you are a true artist :)Last night was a pretty crazy night, so today Peter and I took it a little bit easier and spent the day driving around seeing some amazing sites. Peter is truly a great tour guide, even though he says he is not.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-15ZBiUI3D_U/Vw2MlKPWIrI/AAAAAAAABas/hShRNGjbPv44GqeEmphsHUy8Qx6UytU0QCK4B/s1600/20160408_132212.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-15ZBiUI3D_U/Vw2MlKPWIrI/AAAAAAAABas/hShRNGjbPv44GqeEmphsHUy8Qx6UytU0QCK4B/s320/20160408_132212.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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One of the places we drove to, was the Kettle 1 Vodka brewery, but we only got to drive by, as the tours are booked well over a month in advance.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DG8WropQMyY/Vw2NM474sfI/AAAAAAAABbA/JqzQquTzhK0ulYlJvypgfn6hB5GvAZoCACK4B/s1600/20160408_174113.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DG8WropQMyY/Vw2NM474sfI/AAAAAAAABbA/JqzQquTzhK0ulYlJvypgfn6hB5GvAZoCACK4B/s320/20160408_174113.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3ogNJvJAT4U/Vw2NKdBVNMI/AAAAAAAABa4/63kmmfgJLnsqr4sAF-jGE4cFbaRQEXCVgCK4B/s1600/20160408_175000.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3ogNJvJAT4U/Vw2NKdBVNMI/AAAAAAAABa4/63kmmfgJLnsqr4sAF-jGE4cFbaRQEXCVgCK4B/s320/20160408_175000.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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After a few hours of driving around, we headed off to Rotterdam to pick up his youngest daughter Marije. She lives in Rotterdam during the week while in her Art school, and on weekends back home with dad.<br />
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When we arrived to pick her up, there is a small music festival going on, and her art class is doing some weird art thing. I don't know what to call it, so I will just explain. They all made these cool costumes/puppets out of cardboard, and then danced around the music festival in them. After 30 minutes of dancing, they all smashed them together into a big pile of broken cardboard. I guess it symbolizes something?<br />
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<i>If you look closely in the first picture, under the left eye, you can see her blue hair and face. She is also in the last picture with the blue hair.</i><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xprfrm0hNIs/Vw2LeR2OBBI/AAAAAAAABaY/_mnOaFSHpYQIF2ODLsz1_p0CGPkk7JXXACK4B/s1600/20160408_163632.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xprfrm0hNIs/Vw2LeR2OBBI/AAAAAAAABaY/_mnOaFSHpYQIF2ODLsz1_p0CGPkk7JXXACK4B/s320/20160408_163632.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IyUMg7K8TD8/Vw2Leyvpf1I/AAAAAAAABag/WKCxYY_ClpU450EM6r1lCAMG5qIouN9IgCK4B/s1600/20160408_163043.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IyUMg7K8TD8/Vw2Leyvpf1I/AAAAAAAABag/WKCxYY_ClpU450EM6r1lCAMG5qIouN9IgCK4B/s320/20160408_163043.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xrwWRiMNd9c/Vw2Ld945CbI/AAAAAAAABaQ/wK9BXpeslp85EpfL8eBdjgcuU0ztON3wwCK4B/s1600/20160408_163924.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xrwWRiMNd9c/Vw2Ld945CbI/AAAAAAAABaQ/wK9BXpeslp85EpfL8eBdjgcuU0ztON3wwCK4B/s320/20160408_163924.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Yeah, I don't know what it means, but it is something you do in college. :) It was cool and rather funny, and you could tell she was having a great time. So who am I to say, she is funny and different.<br />
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When we arrived back home, Peter ordered us pizza and we all sat around talking and catching up. I have not seen Marije since she was 12 years old and she is now 21, a young women. She still has a little kid left in her, which adds to her great personality.<br />
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<i>This was yet again, another great day visiting my distant family!</i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Rotterdam, Netherlands51.9244201 4.477732500000001951.7677541 4.1550090000000015 52.0810861 4.8004560000000023tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-39520548892953318722016-04-06T19:41:00.000-04:002016-04-12T19:42:28.722-04:00Amsterdam - With Mr Peter and Hello Space CakesPeter and I decided to take the bus into Amsterdam so we can have some beers and not worry about driving. The buses were easy to navigate and well planned out, but expensive. It cost us 11.50 pounds ($17.85 CAD) each, one way to Amsterdam. In a car it would be a 30 minute drive.<br />
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In Amsterdam, our first stop was the <i>Heineken Experience</i>. This is where Heineken was first brewed many years ago as in, well over 100 years ago.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rZCoIaz-PK4/Vw2FRu8ZwxI/AAAAAAAABaA/55nSNca1sGA2_zBmravqFcSGiPzRpzocwCK4B/s1600/20160407_125950.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rZCoIaz-PK4/Vw2FRu8ZwxI/AAAAAAAABaA/55nSNca1sGA2_zBmravqFcSGiPzRpzocwCK4B/s320/20160407_125950.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
The tour took us little over an hour and was great! It went from showing you how they brew their beer, to the history, and then onto tasting it. I don't know what part I enjoyed the most, but tasting it is a favorite thing to do.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vj0SO6mpP8A/VwvAYgG5MPI/AAAAAAAABXw/tXZJgJYHMdo2PcsDFEjjr-UX1QVZ8ECdA/s1600/20160407_132916.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vj0SO6mpP8A/VwvAYgG5MPI/AAAAAAAABXw/tXZJgJYHMdo2PcsDFEjjr-UX1QVZ8ECdA/s320/20160407_132916.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4afe_X0XAPg/VwvATpGn1jI/AAAAAAAABXo/6VBV41UlPtYnghiG2kCoEldknOZE4lKuw/s1600/20160407_134049.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4afe_X0XAPg/VwvATpGn1jI/AAAAAAAABXo/6VBV41UlPtYnghiG2kCoEldknOZE4lKuw/s320/20160407_134049.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uj-yTOtTY_U/VwvAZIqDDII/AAAAAAAABX4/7ntqYp13Wjk1-R9WR75zTaOl8VzPUV-AA/s1600/20160407_133853.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uj-yTOtTY_U/VwvAZIqDDII/AAAAAAAABX4/7ntqYp13Wjk1-R9WR75zTaOl8VzPUV-AA/s320/20160407_133853.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Now that we have had a few yummy beers, we head off to the streets for some people watching and food.<br />
Peter first treated me to some <i>Dutch Mini Pancakes</i>. Mmm damn good!<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tmf_hqqK_II/VwvBD7FKkDI/AAAAAAAABYQ/i5TixOhu5m4VIEfjrLdpbSCulpmW1j7-A/s1600/20160407_150615.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tmf_hqqK_II/VwvBD7FKkDI/AAAAAAAABYQ/i5TixOhu5m4VIEfjrLdpbSCulpmW1j7-A/s320/20160407_150615.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3FuL_e5A8kI/VwvBG6z5amI/AAAAAAAABYc/N1cHr-86MOIobj8QOjp8PCzbYbdtvnHnw/s1600/20160407_150319.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3FuL_e5A8kI/VwvBG6z5amI/AAAAAAAABYc/N1cHr-86MOIobj8QOjp8PCzbYbdtvnHnw/s320/20160407_150319.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
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<i>Some pictures on our walk.</i><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LzmSMhBMvHM/VwvBHaHH-cI/AAAAAAAABYk/BSZsZFYiRMs41Pwv017ixjUg74de1sfNQ/s1600/20160407_153432.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LzmSMhBMvHM/VwvBHaHH-cI/AAAAAAAABYk/BSZsZFYiRMs41Pwv017ixjUg74de1sfNQ/s320/20160407_153432.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n-oG_KF-R-w/VwvBTvBBSCI/AAAAAAAABYs/XSKBJUei4YwmR3KP3C28LEusbOeVOYepQ/s1600/20160407_154837.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n-oG_KF-R-w/VwvBTvBBSCI/AAAAAAAABYs/XSKBJUei4YwmR3KP3C28LEusbOeVOYepQ/s320/20160407_154837.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Next is to head over to the Windmill Brewery for some beer tasting.<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bRUTNYUNdW0/VwvBWoMwwyI/AAAAAAAABY0/lrU15DNWFMsAc5n0ZWE2OzhJnGJv_xCEA/s1600/20160407_160813.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bRUTNYUNdW0/VwvBWoMwwyI/AAAAAAAABY0/lrU15DNWFMsAc5n0ZWE2OzhJnGJv_xCEA/s320/20160407_160813.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
A nice little tasting tray of beers! I loved the Belgium Triple.<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yq4Ea90-A64/VwvBpH3yaYI/AAAAAAAABY8/NHEtSWOpQrcxY0PjK2dRgeEA5aupJpLyQ/s1600/20160407_161444.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yq4Ea90-A64/VwvBpH3yaYI/AAAAAAAABY8/NHEtSWOpQrcxY0PjK2dRgeEA5aupJpLyQ/s320/20160407_161444.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-42RU4np3Llo/VwvBpC8NsuI/AAAAAAAABZE/H3VxxSXG1owcccSqNTXN5fUa-fs_X2Sug/s1600/20160407_161511.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-42RU4np3Llo/VwvBpC8NsuI/AAAAAAAABZE/H3VxxSXG1owcccSqNTXN5fUa-fs_X2Sug/s320/20160407_161511.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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The beers went down nicely, and now Peter and I are off to see more of the city. I forgot to take pictures of the Red Light district, but it was nothing special. Just a bunch of girls standing in windows. None of the girls looked Dutch, they all looked Russian or Ukraine, but I could be wrong.<br />
<br />
After walking down several streets, I tell Peter I want to try space cakes. He wasn't sure what they were, so I explained to him what I knew. My understanding is, they are cakes, or brownies baked with weed, or hash, for people who hate smoking.<br />
<br />
He says, OK, Lets get one. <br />
<br />
We head into one of the more famous Coffee Shops, where all you can smell is weed and a lot of it. I order a space cake and Peter gets a coffee. We find a place to sit down and we split the cake. <br />
<br />
Just sitting in these coffee shops, you could get seriously high. The amount of smoke in the air is unbelievable.<br />
<br />
Well, it tastes like a normal Chocolate Cupcake. Hmmm, I don't know, is this a good thing or bad?<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O89f9Kb1pns/VwvDt3zSt_I/AAAAAAAABZc/F_Shbbwz3lsldneC52ITZvoHF9zJAPYfw/s1600/20160407_200309.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O89f9Kb1pns/VwvDt3zSt_I/AAAAAAAABZc/F_Shbbwz3lsldneC52ITZvoHF9zJAPYfw/s320/20160407_200309.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rYco5ziZTbM/VwvDs3hgu8I/AAAAAAAABZU/U58yONiPtmUb9Hx2hCJyyU-fXBAU1vxhA/s1600/20160407_200406.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rYco5ziZTbM/VwvDs3hgu8I/AAAAAAAABZU/U58yONiPtmUb9Hx2hCJyyU-fXBAU1vxhA/s320/20160407_200406.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
We leave the coffee shop and walk around town for an hour. We both notice nothing different and no high feeling. <br />
<br />
Peter says, maybe we buy another one. I agree, and we find another coffee shop. This time the guy says it will work for sure, and we get a brownie with weed/hash in it. <br />
<br />
<i>Hash Brownie and a little treat for you all.</i><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G3s1wyhPJTk/VwvD6_fHAvI/AAAAAAAABZk/Wd3gz9yi8h8XqN3Mi_zP6FlbIviHne-BA/s1600/20160407_211250.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G3s1wyhPJTk/VwvD6_fHAvI/AAAAAAAABZk/Wd3gz9yi8h8XqN3Mi_zP6FlbIviHne-BA/s320/20160407_211250.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2eSpgOYZFgM/VwvD7NZKWBI/AAAAAAAABZs/IsvTjctBUScxXpUbmksOHjJN8WabTxBNg/s1600/20160407_202013.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2eSpgOYZFgM/VwvD7NZKWBI/AAAAAAAABZs/IsvTjctBUScxXpUbmksOHjJN8WabTxBNg/s320/20160407_202013.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
Well, 45 minutes later, no real feeling, and it is late. So we jump on the train to head back to Peters. <br />
<br />
On the train, I feel this crazy urge to relax and sleep. No high feeling, but major sleep feeling.<br />
<br />
I had a very hard time staying awake during the train ride home, and when we arrived home, I feel asleep right away.<br />
<br />
Well Shaun, and if you are reading this, you know who you are. I didn't go and see the paintings, but I did eat space cake!<br />
<br />
<b>Just another amazing day with Peter!</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Amsterdam, Netherlands52.3702157 4.895167899999933152.2151137 4.5724443999999327 52.5253177 5.2178913999999335tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-72670368643935213082016-04-06T02:46:00.000-04:002016-04-07T03:50:38.122-04:00Deventer, Netherlands - Seeing where my Oma and Opa grew upSince I was very young, I always wanted to know and see where my grandparents grew up. Well, today I am in the Netherlands staying at my Dad's cousins house, who would be my distant cousin, Peter. Peter is a pretty amazing guy, and offered to have me stay at his house while visiting. I believe I have only met Peter 3 times in person, when he and his family came to Canada to visit.<br />
<br />
Before I get into today's trip, I want to quickly talk about my first day here.<br />
<br />
I arrived in Amsterdam on Tuesday around 1:30 pm, after more than a 28 hour commute from Thailand. Peter met me at the airport and drove us back to his house. I don't know how, but I am not that tired yet.<br />
<br />
The first hour or so Peter and I just visited and caught up on each others lives and just before dinner, Karin arrived for a short visit before she went off to work. Karin is also a distance cousin of mine and it was great seeing her. Hopefully will see her a few more times before I leave.<br />
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For dinner Peter treated me to a meal and beer at a local pub. I am already getting a taste of the true Dutch life and am loving it.<br />
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That night I went to bed around 9 pm and quickly passed out.<br />
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The next day Peter offered to drive me to Deventer to show me where some of my dad's family grew up. This is what I have been waiting for, for years now and am very excited.<br />
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<i>Off to Deventer we go!</i><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XolvG-UO8e4/VwYFfM8XFvI/AAAAAAAABUo/7Rr16MywXn8MSu9Y31A_dmXQUeHt-9Vtg/s1600/20160406_115516.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XolvG-UO8e4/VwYFfM8XFvI/AAAAAAAABUo/7Rr16MywXn8MSu9Y31A_dmXQUeHt-9Vtg/s320/20160406_115516.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jGj1dOE3XH4/VwYFjkF32sI/AAAAAAAABUw/UI-oLXnocTgbVTG_4AEj_KjsMZ8OYZ5GA/s1600/20160406_120924.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jGj1dOE3XH4/VwYFjkF32sI/AAAAAAAABUw/UI-oLXnocTgbVTG_4AEj_KjsMZ8OYZ5GA/s320/20160406_120924.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<i>Back side of my Oma's house.</i><br />
<i><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bqw4oFnQk88/VwYFxu07ixI/AAAAAAAABU4/sufslXgOCKEt1kescZJLYS2feAHtqOs1Q/s1600/20160406_120955.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bqw4oFnQk88/VwYFxu07ixI/AAAAAAAABU4/sufslXgOCKEt1kescZJLYS2feAHtqOs1Q/s320/20160406_120955.jpg" width="320" /></a></i><br />
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We park on the same street and get out for some pictures and a walk around the city.<br />
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<i>The house where my Oma grew up</i>.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KnlDxJzzkT8/VwYGEZZVySI/AAAAAAAABVE/hv-u0SfI09MkGXmkW_b26dLJU_kd1rHuQ/s1600/20160406_121638.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KnlDxJzzkT8/VwYGEZZVySI/AAAAAAAABVE/hv-u0SfI09MkGXmkW_b26dLJU_kd1rHuQ/s320/20160406_121638.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T2sNGyHOMVg/VwYGKd_uyPI/AAAAAAAABVQ/fO2iEdMrH1cY4TTb8diEHW2F_Wo1bdukw/s1600/20160406_121609.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T2sNGyHOMVg/VwYGKd_uyPI/AAAAAAAABVQ/fO2iEdMrH1cY4TTb8diEHW2F_Wo1bdukw/s320/20160406_121609.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
<i><br /></i>
During our walk through the Deventer, Peter points out a building in the oldest part of Deventer and in that building is a museum with some artifacts from the cities history.<br />
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Peter again being the amazing guy he is, treated me to a walk through the museum.<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EWy2e0Pl34k/VwYHhiyb7HI/AAAAAAAABVo/OR9mfHK-qlMQSDiXSwm1BrU5OlGvHS2fw/s1600/20160406_122147.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EWy2e0Pl34k/VwYHhiyb7HI/AAAAAAAABVo/OR9mfHK-qlMQSDiXSwm1BrU5OlGvHS2fw/s320/20160406_122147.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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You wouldn't believe it, but the very first painting I see, is one from my Great Opa. He is one of the famous Deventer Trio (Three).<br />
<i>Hendrikus Johannes Balsink</i><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4RSo_s1rkhg/VwYHgU0kGmI/AAAAAAAABVg/COtJFzbtm4AYTSJlK-znai44ZtbxmpnHA/s1600/20160406_123534.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4RSo_s1rkhg/VwYHgU0kGmI/AAAAAAAABVg/COtJFzbtm4AYTSJlK-znai44ZtbxmpnHA/s320/20160406_123534.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Another cool picture is of the WW2 cans that were dropped from planes with food and supplies. At the back of the picture.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nd7Atl7Ka78/VwYIps1gdxI/AAAAAAAABV0/iBu1SRM0kPEo-FCd2aINKv6b0v0lTAMlQ/s1600/20160406_123142.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nd7Atl7Ka78/VwYIps1gdxI/AAAAAAAABV0/iBu1SRM0kPEo-FCd2aINKv6b0v0lTAMlQ/s320/20160406_123142.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Little more walking around the city and then off to see where my Opa lived.<br />
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Sorry Peter for the bad picture of you, but you have to admit, I look cute as a button!<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KqUo9iNH2D0/VwYJtxvqyJI/AAAAAAAABWk/ZsgAiUSd8MQw-oAU4FFKmJIDrL6jYVpWA/s1600/20160406_125341.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KqUo9iNH2D0/VwYJtxvqyJI/AAAAAAAABWk/ZsgAiUSd8MQw-oAU4FFKmJIDrL6jYVpWA/s320/20160406_125341.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ViBP5yUyYyc/VwYJt0ouo2I/AAAAAAAABWg/SgRwIjtCNPwLrjIRe0ORUNaZb94EhPyhQ/s1600/20160406_125350.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ViBP5yUyYyc/VwYJt0ouo2I/AAAAAAAABWg/SgRwIjtCNPwLrjIRe0ORUNaZb94EhPyhQ/s320/20160406_125350.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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This is the house where Opa grew up on the left side, and on the front corner is where the Pharmacy used to be. <br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IKoP_5onuI8/VwYJBljJi0I/AAAAAAAABV8/mVEvLdmhNzE1ugpkRLK2upRXAPGV_Fh6Q/s1600/20160406_143134.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IKoP_5onuI8/VwYJBljJi0I/AAAAAAAABV8/mVEvLdmhNzE1ugpkRLK2upRXAPGV_Fh6Q/s320/20160406_143134.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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The people owning the house now have a bottle and labels from the old Pharmacy in the window. I am glad they were not home, because I would be wondering who the heck this hot looking bearded guy is, looking in our windows.<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MDZgu4WUQJM/VwYJd-4AfaI/AAAAAAAABWI/UpJXuSu7bJ4YTYfkpN1ljub7G8gzOaq0w/s1600/20160406_143701.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MDZgu4WUQJM/VwYJd-4AfaI/AAAAAAAABWI/UpJXuSu7bJ4YTYfkpN1ljub7G8gzOaq0w/s320/20160406_143701.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FFC4xGvSCPM/VwYJiOlnLhI/AAAAAAAABWQ/ezFMCV9pE-AwW88yVV-gRe_A8ue-YX-vw/s1600/20160406_143905.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FFC4xGvSCPM/VwYJiOlnLhI/AAAAAAAABWQ/ezFMCV9pE-AwW88yVV-gRe_A8ue-YX-vw/s320/20160406_143905.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Our next great stop was to see the street named after my Great Opa and the sign even has his birth date and death on it. Pretty cool!<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B0zqYQ7J9rY/VwYKWQGiZyI/AAAAAAAABWw/ysBiX_lsFVYqO90WKgjLSm6leomWKz9QA/s1600/20160406_142052.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B0zqYQ7J9rY/VwYKWQGiZyI/AAAAAAAABWw/ysBiX_lsFVYqO90WKgjLSm6leomWKz9QA/s320/20160406_142052.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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The last stop is at the grave where my Great Oma and Opa were buried along with their 4 year old son Hein.<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fBf3NiEY3ec/VwYKhTFQH2I/AAAAAAAABW8/MbQXVu4kg8gYokSrGIXn32cU60KWTpE0Q/s1600/20160406_145413.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fBf3NiEY3ec/VwYKhTFQH2I/AAAAAAAABW8/MbQXVu4kg8gYokSrGIXn32cU60KWTpE0Q/s320/20160406_145413.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<b><i>Thank you Peter for the amazing trip, and being a tour guide.</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<i>The last time I saw my Oma and Opa. See you soon again!</i><br />
<i><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l6qqCbLcF6s/VwYRFx8oEyI/AAAAAAAABXQ/E6-WH41hC9c0BDwwN4donGN3gOWRyqNBw/s1600/20151119_174425.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l6qqCbLcF6s/VwYRFx8oEyI/AAAAAAAABXQ/E6-WH41hC9c0BDwwN4donGN3gOWRyqNBw/s320/20151119_174425.jpg" width="320" /></a></i><br />
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On the way home we stopped at the local grocery store, where they have a cute dutch girl handing out free coffee. Why do we not have this in Canada?<br />
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Anyways, with the food we bought, Peter cooked me a damn good meal. It has been forever since I had something home cooked and definitely missed it. Oops, I don't think Peter wanted anyone to know he can cook.<br />
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I am now heading to bed and cannot wait for our next big adventure in the Netherlands.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Deventer, Netherlands52.2660751 6.155216500000051452.188303600000005 5.9938550000000514 52.3438466 6.3165780000000513tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-70534265091633767912016-04-03T12:07:00.000-04:002016-04-04T12:08:39.131-04:00Phuket, Thailand to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysa - Where's my F^#^% Wallet?My taxi ride to the airport was rather funny. The car pulled up, and it was an older Honda Civic, with dual fart canons and blackout windows. This is not a popular thing in Thailand. Then the driver gets out, and he is a male in his late 30's, dressed like a hip hop wanna be. My first impression is, this is great! My ride to the airport will be quick!<br />
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I was right! He drove down each street hitting the top speed allowed, where most drivers drive rather slow because of the amount of pedestrians. As I always say, survival of the fittest. If you don't look both ways, your problem. <br />
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To top it off, he had an aftermarket DVD player in it, and can you guess what it was playing. Yup, <i>Fast and the Furious</i>. He loves that movie and wants to drive like them. However, he actually doesn't. He drives a little fast, but not really. Slow to what I am used too.<br />
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The ride to the airport was great, and now I am going through security.<br />
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As always I pull out my laptop from my carry on and toss it into a bin. Actually, I first put in my smart phone, then at request, my passport, then my laptop on top of those items. In my hand I have my wallet, which I never toss into a bin and always hold it. Only a few times in my life have I been asked to put it into a bin. Anyways, the girl makes me. So I toss it on top of the laptop. In case you didn't get the order of the bin, it is, Phone, Passport, Laptop and now on top my wallet. <br />
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Well my bag and bin go through the scanner and I walk through the metal detector with no alarms. However, the pretty looking young male security guard decides he wants to frisk me anyways. <br />
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My bin at the moment is being pulled through and the girl also decides my laptop needs a swipe test, so she pulls it out of the bin. Remember my wallet is on top. Well, it falls off and goes under the scanner.<br />
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I did not notice this because my new BFF is tickling my ribs and I am sure he got some side boob action.<br />
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The Tickle Monster, as I know call him, is finally done and I pay him. I mean, I don't. Wow, that is twice in the Thailand I got felt up with out paying. Damn good odds for me.<br />
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Anyways, I grab my phone, passport and laptop and head to through customs. 10 minutes later I am at my gate, and all of a sudden, I realize, "WHERE THE FUCK IS MY WALLET!" I take a second and run each step through my head and remember I never got it back and I also clearly remember the bin was empty.<br />
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Shit, did someone take it, or did it fall out?<br />
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I speed walk back to customs and tell them my wallet is missing and I know I lost it at security. The girl doesn't understand. I pull out my phone and use my translator app. She then understands and tells me to go there quickly. You don't have to tell me twice.<br />
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I get to security and explain to them the situation. They stop all traffic and start looking for it. We also re-scan my bag, to prove it is not in it.<br />
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A few minutes pass and no one knows where it is. I tell the people, it must have fallen out when you swiped my laptop. Look under the machine.<br />
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A girl does and there it is. OMG, thank you! I am so happy, I even tell the guy he can pat me down again if he wants. <br />
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Anyways, I go back through customs with no issues and get to my gate with a few minutes to spare.<br />
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This plane ride is only 75 minutes long, and we land in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysa with no issues.<br />
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So that's start of my commute to Amsterdam. Wish me luck on the rest of it.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia3.139003 101.686854999999922.885326 101.36413149999993 3.3926800000000004 102.00957849999992tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-52428891295745799532016-04-01T23:15:00.000-04:002016-04-03T11:10:44.438-04:00Patong Thailand - Hooker teaches me a lesson in life!Most days I ate breakfast before 9 am at the free buffet included with my room and then relaxed by the pool with a coffee. Enjoying a dip every so often and then back to being lazy. Around noon I would go for a walk around town. Some days I would take in an hour massage for less than $10 CAD.<br />
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My afternoons always varied, sometimes drinks at a bar, or more pool time. The beach in Patong is really nice, but very sandy water, so you can't snorkel. It's also a little too hot for me to hangout there for more than 45 minutes. Also, you can't leave anything alone on the beach because it will be stolen. So the pool is a great option.<br />
<br />
The one after noon an older Aussie guy came over to me at the pool and started a conversation. He ended up inviting me to join him and his friends at Roscoe's pub later that day to watch the rugby game and of coarse I did this. Pierre and his friend Phil were really cool Aussies. Phil's team was loosing, so we kindly reminded him of this throughout the game. My favorite line was, "<i>Which team is yours? Oh, is that the one with the score 0 beside their names?</i>" It was a great game and a lot of fun with some new friends.<br />
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The next day they invited me again to watch another Rugby game. When I arrived at the sports bar, Pierre says, "Oh no!" and then I realized why he said it. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ckwxx6tX0to/VwCq6nRvP9I/AAAAAAAABTo/ZjPthW6eWOghKQJ83BkYLpPC_r37xlgFQ/s1600/20160401_182406.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ckwxx6tX0to/VwCq6nRvP9I/AAAAAAAABTo/ZjPthW6eWOghKQJ83BkYLpPC_r37xlgFQ/s320/20160401_182406.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
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Yes, this was not planned, but somehow we all dressed alike. These two guys are pretty amazing and damn nice guys.<br />
<br />
The one day I went for a massage on the road my hotel is on. Normally I would never do this as most massage places are also happy ending places and if turn them down, it becomes awkward walking past them. Like the old saying, "Don't shit where you eat!". However, the reason I went to this location is because there is a girl I see everyday and she is always smiling and never harasses me for a massage. The one day she offered me some grapes when I was walking by. She seemed like such a good person, I thought why not.<br />
<br />
So this is how it went. The massage was supposed to be an hour, but she gave me well over and hour and then never asked for more money or a tip. She also was such a sweetheart, asking about my life, if I would ever date a Thai girl, and telling me about her life. She is the same age as me, and has never been married and has no kids. We had such a good conversation, I thought, why not take her out for dinner. Who knows, maybe someday we will meet again.<br />
<br />
Well, that was a big mistake! We agreed to meet here at 4 pm, and when I showed up. She tells me she can't leave work unless I pay for the time. Which actually makes sense since they do not get time off for lunch, type of thing. Then she begins to tell me, she works 11am to 11pm, and we can meet after work. I agreed and said, that works just fine.<br />
<br />
At 11pm I meet her and she tells me, she doesn't drink. Well there isn't much to do in the area that time of night because it is so damn noisy from music, and the drunks. We decide to just hang out at the hotel. <br />
<br />
Our conversation continued from earlier about dating, and moving to Canada, that sort of thing. All speculation, but she was curious how hard it would be if we did end up dating in the future. That sort of thing.<br />
<br />
Anyways, the night progressed and she ended up staying here until the morning. <br />
<br />
This is where it truly goes down hill.<br />
<br />
Just before she leaves, she holds out her hand. I look at her and ask what she wants. I was going to give her some money for lunch, because I know she doesn't have much. But then she says, she wants a few hundread Euros. I laugh because I thought she was joking, and then she made it obvious she is not kidding and tells me her time is not free and we hung out all night.<br />
<br />
At this point I explain to her, she never said anything like this before and I was sure she was not a hooker. It doesn't get any better, and she shows me video of cops beating tourist up and other things to somewhat threaten me. At this point I truly know I was played. Something I never thought would ever happen.<br />
<br />
I only had a few 100 baht on me and offered her it in hopes to resolve this. She then tells me she does not want it, unless it is full amount. I told her, I do not have the full amount and would never pay for her anyways. I also told her I showed my intentions from the beginning, and it was clearly not for a hooker.<br />
<br />
She become even more frustrated and leaves without me paying her anything.<br />
<br />
This is where my mind starts to play tricks. I start asking myself, "<i>What is she going to do</i>?" I know Thai police have killed several expats and tourist over the years, and even a few this year. All were up north, not down here. Either way, if she decides to tell the police something, Thais stick together and who knows what will happen.<br />
<br />
The other scenario is she waits for me to walk down the street and have some thugs follow me, and I know this is very common and happened only a few weeks ago in Patong. Two guys got stabbed and one killed.<br />
<br />
Well, I decided to stay in the hotel that day and just swim in the pool and hope for the best.<br />
<br />
It is now the day after and no police, so I think I am safe in that scenario, but I still don't know if I can walk down the street without being harassed or possibly worse. <br />
<br />
I still have to catch a taxi to my flight to Amsterdam, which means walking down that street.<br />
<br />
I will tell you this, I was definitely a little worried shit might hit the fan, but with luck, all was OK.<br />
<br />
If you are reading this and think you can meet a girl in Thailand for friends and maybe more, those are only 1% of the city population. Always ask upfront two major questions, are you a ladyboy and are you a hooker? These two questions will save you. I only asked the one question. <br />
<br />
Lesson learned!<br />
<br />
I still have that last step, to catch a taxi to the airport, but I have a gut feeling all will be fine.<br />
<br />
Anyways, Thailand has some amazing scenery, great food and some very interesting people. From my short stay here, I would be very careful traveling here. It is a safe country, but the people are almost always out to get more out of you, than expected. So be smart, enjoy the view, and be prepared to spend a little more then your budgeted. Thailand is the one country I don't have any solid plans on coming back too.<br />
<br />
Don't forget to check out my short click on Patong Beach, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2cIjb6AJJo" target="_blank">just click here</a>.<br />
<br />
My next post should be from Amsterdam. Hello Peter and family, here I come.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Patong, Kathu District, Phuket, Thailand7.8969150999999984 98.30201237.8340035999999982 98.2213313 7.9598265999999986 98.3826933tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-31676848860751545692016-03-29T00:25:00.000-04:002016-03-31T01:49:23.079-04:00Patong Thailand - Where everything happens! ladyboy pulls my zipper!In this post I am not going to go day by day, but give more the highlights over the last 3 or 4 days.<br />
<br />
It all started a few minutes after I check into my hostel dorm room. As soon as I arrived and dropped my bags, I said Hi to everyone in the room. This is a new thing I am doing to make it comfortable right away. <br />
<br />
The first person I meet is a guy from Croatia, who has the bed across from me. The next guy is on the bed above me, and he is from Istanbul. <br />
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The three of us start chatting and decide tonight we will all go out together.<br />
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A few hour later, we are out and about! Or first stop is a small bar for a few beers. Croatia buys a flashlight taser, and yes you read that right. A Flashlight Taser! We all ask the other person to try it, but non of us do. Lol. I hate electricity.<br />
<br />
The night was rather laid back until Croatia decided we should see a Ping Pong Show. For all of you who do not know what that is. Well, read this.<br />
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A street guy takes us through a Go Go Bar, into the back where there is nothing, and then into a hallway where it is starting to look like the Hostel from the movie Hostel. At one point we all look at each other like, "What the Fuck did we get ourselves into!"<br />
<br />
Then in this dark, dirty hallway, two doors open up, and there is a bar with a tone of people in it. He takes us all the way around the bar stage, to the side corner and hands us a drink menu. The drinks are priced at 900 baht ($36 CAD) per drink. I say, no way! Croatia argues and says, 200 baht or we just leave. The guy agrees and gets us 3 beers at 200 baht ($8 CAD) per drink, per hour.<br />
<br />
The show is already in progress and I know this by the ping pong ball that just went flying by my head. The entire time we were arguing about beers, I didn't notice what was going on, on the stage.<br />
<br />
Well, there is a older girl on stage with a mini skirt. She is pushing ping pong balls up her man hole and then shooting them out at the audience. At this point I am laughing, but also doing my best to avoid being hit buy one. Like, Ewwwwww!<br />
<br />
The next show is two younger girls come out and dance, while dressed in mans white dress shirts and thongs. These girls know how to move. Like DAMN! <br />
<br />
After doing some sexy dancing, like the type I do in the mirror when no one is around. They pull an older guy up on stage. He has no idea what shit he just got himself into.<br />
<br />
They quickly pull off his shirt and shorts, he is now in his boxers. The girls try getting them off too, but he refuses. The one girl tricks him and puts a towel around him and he agrees.<br />
<br />
He is now laying on his back with the towel around him and all 3 girls are giving him lap dances and teasing him. You can see he is extremely embarrassed, and the more it is obvious, the more they tease him.<br />
<br />
They continue teasing him, grabbing his junk under the towel not showing us what they are doing, but we can guess. The next thing we see, is the one girl yanks his towel off and runs away with it. Everyone cheers, and claps, trying to make the dude feel comfortable. However, there is no chance in hell I would have done what he got suckered into.<br />
<br />
This is where he says enough and gets off stage, where they take him in the back and ... He was back there for 30 minutes, so I am guessing they gave him a bonus for going on stage.<br />
<br />
The next act was a girl using her garage door to shoot darts at balloons. Again, very interesting.<br />
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At this point it has been an hour and we either buy another drink or go. We decide to go as I am corrupted for life anyways.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sS2Xv4wdG9w/Vvyow3GtUMI/AAAAAAAABRU/2Mk1iebCtJc0BfeAt8xVIbea4G0cJtjHg/s1600/20160327_232521.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sS2Xv4wdG9w/Vvyow3GtUMI/AAAAAAAABRU/2Mk1iebCtJc0BfeAt8xVIbea4G0cJtjHg/s320/20160327_232521.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
The next day Istanbul checks out and I say goodbye to another really cool friend. I hope to someday visit his country. He made a very good impression on me.<br />
<br />
That night Croatia and I go out again, but this time we just have a tone of beers and walk around, being amused by the ladyboys and massage girls. At the end of this night, we decide tomorrow will be our crazy night. This will be his last night in Patong.<br />
<br />
The next day I check out of the hostel and book myself into a hotel with a very nice pool. I got an amazing deal online for less than $20 CAD per night including a breakfast. The hostel was $5 CAD per night, but had no common room and I wanted to catch up on my blogs. I also thought, this is my last few days in tropical weather, so why not enjoy it to the fullest.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SfOovmq41aA/VvyxhKYaQEI/AAAAAAAABRk/UoK6_DEA2Vg-P8Ojr7Y4_Uj4486WyPOyA/s1600/200828_16032416050041047258.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SfOovmq41aA/VvyxhKYaQEI/AAAAAAAABRk/UoK6_DEA2Vg-P8Ojr7Y4_Uj4486WyPOyA/s320/200828_16032416050041047258.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
It's time! I meet up with Croatia at the hostel and we head out to buy a bottle of rum and mix. We also grab some take out food and head back to my place to sit by the pool.<br />
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Scarfing down this amazing BBQ food, Croatia says to me, "<i>This is pretty awesome that you can meet a person, hangout and have such a great time, and not know each others names!</i>" I respond with, I was just thinking the same thing. So we finally tell each other our names.<br />
<br />
Croatia's name is Kazimir, but I call him Kaz.<br />
<br />
I do have to expand on this. Traveling as I used to, to hotels I never met anyone or hung out with random people. Going to hostels and backpacking is by far the best way to travel. The people you meet, the things you learn about other countries are amazing, and worth every second. This has been the best journey of my life.<br />
<br />
Well, we are now both full of amazing BBQ shrimp and rum, and are ready to start the shit show.<br />
<br />
Down on Bangla street we start by grabbing some more big beers, and walking around.<br />
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<i>Kazimir and the Ladyboys</i><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xm3S78HTvgU/VvyyhkIyh0I/AAAAAAAABRs/KDifUueiWBYSvcddH2o0IY05S4xT1wMgQ/s1600/20160328_224534.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xm3S78HTvgU/VvyyhkIyh0I/AAAAAAAABRs/KDifUueiWBYSvcddH2o0IY05S4xT1wMgQ/s320/20160328_224534.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ek-k3KIZmE0/Vvy0V3QMSZI/AAAAAAAABR4/S9EkxGUkgi4x4d5VBLK1wdzu28JOEKtMg/s1600/20160329_223300.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ek-k3KIZmE0/Vvy0V3QMSZI/AAAAAAAABR4/S9EkxGUkgi4x4d5VBLK1wdzu28JOEKtMg/s320/20160329_223300.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Here we are watching a magic street performer. He is extremely good and I tip him a few dollars.<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-seiw9Gg1p4I/Vvy0bh9lTUI/AAAAAAAABSA/3M2-Nq53mtMa2gEz0u9nEteTIHECX4N1g/s1600/20160329_223602.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-seiw9Gg1p4I/Vvy0bh9lTUI/AAAAAAAABSA/3M2-Nq53mtMa2gEz0u9nEteTIHECX4N1g/s320/20160329_223602.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Uh oh, the shit show is well on its way.<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v4leIdcyBwQ/Vvy0jPWmWbI/AAAAAAAABSI/RAZmoz3gSHoZjFabusMZ5f-F-nCf6JDZA/s1600/20160329_223345.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v4leIdcyBwQ/Vvy0jPWmWbI/AAAAAAAABSI/RAZmoz3gSHoZjFabusMZ5f-F-nCf6JDZA/s320/20160329_223345.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oiRy2nsZMgQ/Vvy0jSA0RQI/AAAAAAAABSQ/AZIkcvrqMxIvM_WawcGIrJtQcH0NSooRw/s1600/20160329_224431.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oiRy2nsZMgQ/Vvy0jSA0RQI/AAAAAAAABSQ/AZIkcvrqMxIvM_WawcGIrJtQcH0NSooRw/s320/20160329_224431.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Here is a silly Russian fighting with the police. I guess he sucker bunched some guy for no real reason. I am sure he is in for a bad night. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pufn-SMmgIc/Vvy1P18OyzI/AAAAAAAABSc/WFqn3jxRi7oplahN55evD_8X1N3Lvqb6A/s1600/20160330_010708.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pufn-SMmgIc/Vvy1P18OyzI/AAAAAAAABSc/WFqn3jxRi7oplahN55evD_8X1N3Lvqb6A/s320/20160330_010708.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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How stupid are you, to get into shit in Thailand, where there is evidence the police have tossed two tourist off of the 14th floor of a building already twice this year. Oh yes, but both were set as suicides.<br />
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<i>Some more random pictures of the red light district street.</i><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fpit3ztBl8s/Vvy1p90oOGI/AAAAAAAABTA/sVDHUzeVl70Tkgdhbm-GmYymcPhSnp-ng/s1600/20160328_224725.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fpit3ztBl8s/Vvy1p90oOGI/AAAAAAAABTA/sVDHUzeVl70Tkgdhbm-GmYymcPhSnp-ng/s320/20160328_224725.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZjCxSMwoz_k/Vvy1ohUv5BI/AAAAAAAABSw/tsDRtWIJc2I3EVLq6CxCTt8jOfM27R38Q/s1600/20160328_221236.gif" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZjCxSMwoz_k/Vvy1ohUv5BI/AAAAAAAABSw/tsDRtWIJc2I3EVLq6CxCTt8jOfM27R38Q/s320/20160328_221236.gif" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8fWNsOoHPb4/Vvy1nC6lTdI/AAAAAAAABSo/EzmB04_ordgx1LlhCZBgjlQeUtRrwdi4Q/s1600/20160328_224818.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8fWNsOoHPb4/Vvy1nC6lTdI/AAAAAAAABSo/EzmB04_ordgx1LlhCZBgjlQeUtRrwdi4Q/s320/20160328_224818.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-frVmRFnYmHI/Vvy1pREawjI/AAAAAAAABS4/t8goWXFmFWA8dh_MgUBsTt1Y5u8k7AEug/s1600/20160328_224810.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-frVmRFnYmHI/Vvy1pREawjI/AAAAAAAABS4/t8goWXFmFWA8dh_MgUBsTt1Y5u8k7AEug/s320/20160328_224810.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xuIb85r8isU/Vvy1vZTS5-I/AAAAAAAABTI/K-Tm9tFO5aspJ87SX3jolin35vudHmbzg/s1600/20160329_224431.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xuIb85r8isU/Vvy1vZTS5-I/AAAAAAAABTI/K-Tm9tFO5aspJ87SX3jolin35vudHmbzg/s320/20160329_224431.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fVGMGlVrX64/Vvy1zTWzKYI/AAAAAAAABTQ/MMmYvJYWdZssf9KxEIGmyNdiyQHVbzFbw/s1600/20160329_224416.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fVGMGlVrX64/Vvy1zTWzKYI/AAAAAAAABTQ/MMmYvJYWdZssf9KxEIGmyNdiyQHVbzFbw/s320/20160329_224416.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
We didn't know this but at midnight they can no longer sell beer at the 7-Elevens. Here the beers are 51 baht for a 1 liter, and at the bars a .330 liter beer is 120 baht. :( so sad. Anyways, we find a side street where a girl is selling large beers and we barter her down to 110 baht for a large beer.<br />
<br />
When I am paying for the beer, a ladyboy comes over and grabs my arm. I politely say, no. He, she, it then grabs my stomach, and I push its hand away and say. NO! Then it tries pulling down my zipper, and I then push its hand away and say, "<i>Fuck off, do not touch me!</i>". It gets mad and starts yelling. Luckily I had my beer paid and we quickly walk away into the crowd. This is the only annoying thing you have to be careful of. You can't get to aggressive with them, because Thai people stick together, even when they are in the wrong.<br />
<br />
My advise, when this starts to happen, say no and walk away fast. Do not argue or try to reason with them. They do not care!<br />
<br />
Anyways, that was the end of our pretty rad night. <br />
<br />
The next day, Kazimir is off to Bangkok, and we both send each other emails saying goodbye. Kazimir tells me, when I come his way, to make sure I message him and stay at his house. I tell him the same. I will miss our funny drunk conversations.<br />
<br />
Kazimir, I wish you the best of luck in you travels, until we meet again!<br />
<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Patong, Kathu District, Phuket, Thailand7.8969150999999984 98.30201237.8340035999999982 98.2213313 7.9598265999999986 98.3826933tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-79684321261978104302016-03-25T23:26:00.000-04:002016-03-31T00:08:13.935-04:00Cebu Philippines to Phuket Thailand - Bad opinions?Flying to Phuket from Thailand was a pretty good commute. Both planes I ended up having 2 seats to myself, so I was able to just relax. No one really kicked my seat much either. :)<br />
<br />
<i>Leaving Singapore</i><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L6LXD__zlxg/VvygoqhNbsI/AAAAAAAABQg/9gOUsg70jskY5WNO4u9GpAA1H4Irs99gg/s1600/20160326_171738.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L6LXD__zlxg/VvygoqhNbsI/AAAAAAAABQg/9gOUsg70jskY5WNO4u9GpAA1H4Irs99gg/s320/20160326_171738.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
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The flight from Singapore to Phuket I met a nice True French couple, who had been traveling for 30 hours to get to Thailand for a friends wedding. We chatted for a few minutes before taking off, and then in the air, both passed out and got some needed rest, I am sure. <br />
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<i>Thailand</i><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5iF_d3etdGE/VvygwjSU47I/AAAAAAAABQw/dUdHrpdn71UCf6rQzbRYznATSd9j-T8cg/s1600/20160326_182628.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5iF_d3etdGE/VvygwjSU47I/AAAAAAAABQw/dUdHrpdn71UCf6rQzbRYznATSd9j-T8cg/s320/20160326_182628.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OH7Lkh4i6jA/VvygvyJOF2I/AAAAAAAABQo/boo4GYJkpjwjGpmgWJPcqKiZQeCcB0W1g/s1600/20160326_183425.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OH7Lkh4i6jA/VvygvyJOF2I/AAAAAAAABQo/boo4GYJkpjwjGpmgWJPcqKiZQeCcB0W1g/s320/20160326_183425.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q5mCJSaVh9o/Vvygw0hDDiI/AAAAAAAABQ4/qUPgwAVirK8S8B6f30Qo7SlVO7cII4tNw/s1600/20160326_183109.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q5mCJSaVh9o/Vvygw0hDDiI/AAAAAAAABQ4/qUPgwAVirK8S8B6f30Qo7SlVO7cII4tNw/s320/20160326_183109.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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In the airport, there was 6 or more lines to go through customs. These lines were long and not moving fast. The shortest line I could see, my new friends were in. So I jumped into this line and started chatting them up again. We all noticed a few minutes later that some people had to get a visa on arrival and neither of us knew if we needed that. The French guy went over to an officer and asked if Canadians or True French needed a VOA. Good News, we don't need it. That line is even longer.<br />
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About an hour later we all make it through customs and I say goodbye to my new friends. They are such nice people and wish me the best of luck in Thailand.<br />
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As always, in the airport you can buy a SIM card and so I get one right away. Having internet helps so much while traveling. <br />
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The SIM cost me 200 baht ($8 CAD) for 7 days unlimited internet. No calling. <br />
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My hotel for the first night is just over 1 KM away, and even now it is 10 PM, it is still 32 degrees out. I am not walking with these two packs in this heat. So I ask a few taxis for the price. They want 600 baht, which is more than it would cost me to taxi across the Island. I guess I am walking.<br />
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Well, there is a nice breeze when I get out of the Airport and the walk isn't bad. 12 minutes later I am almost at my hotel, but a van pulls up and asks if I need a ride. I kindly say no, and tell him my hotel is just up the road. He says OK and pulls away.<br />
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1 minute later he is back and says, "Please sir, get in, it is too hot and you have large bags. I give you a ride for free. No charge!"<br />
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I know he is not trying to trick me, he genuinely wants to give me a ride. However, I point to the sign 20 steps ahead and show him, that's my hotel. He than says, he is sorry, he thought it was further ahead. He also tells me if I need a ride in the future to call him and he gives me his card.<br />
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Are Thais all this nice! If so, I am in for an amazing time.<br />
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Well, I am at my room and it is very nice. They also have a brand new pool, which I use right away and jump in for 5 minutes. Awww, I needed that!<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4q_KOvwlVv0/Vvyg8laKyQI/AAAAAAAABRA/ZMtPnFpaL14Fu3K8wSBZAh3uaRRX0BoHQ/s1600/20160326_194844.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4q_KOvwlVv0/Vvyg8laKyQI/AAAAAAAABRA/ZMtPnFpaL14Fu3K8wSBZAh3uaRRX0BoHQ/s320/20160326_194844.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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The price of this hotel is more than I want to pay and I see it is not close to any nice beaches. So the next morning I check out and head to Patong, the red light capital on Phuket Island.<br />
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This is another little venture that I will tell here.<br />
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I am told by many people the mini bus cost close to 500 baht and I have to find one at the airport, but I recall seeing a mini bus taxi place just outside my hotel. So I head over there.<br />
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The receptionist tells me the price is 150 baht ($6 CAD). Rather big difference from getting one at the airport where tourist get ripped off.<br />
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When the mini bus taxi pulls up, the driver has already picked up at family. The van seats 9 people and currently has 8 in it. <br />
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This is where my opinion on a country starts to change. During my travels I have met hundreds of Germans and I never really knew how I felt about them. Well, I do now. They are amazing people. I have yet to meet a German who is not nice, and did not treat me with the most respect. I now want to meet all Germans.<br />
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But this bus was not filled with Germans, it was filled with Russians and Russians I always thought were nice but straight forward people.<br />
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And this is how my opinion starts to change. The one row of 3 seats had two Russians in it, with the middle seat empty. The driver asks them to move over, and make the outside seat free so I can get in. The guy and girl refused, saying they are not comfortable without more space. The driver then tells them, mover over, or we are not going anywhere. A minute later, after a tone of bitching from the entire family, they make room and I get in.<br />
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Now they turn there attitudes on me, like I made this happen. The entire ride the guy kept pushing against me trying to get my to sit half on the seat and half off. I refused and asked him to stop pushing. He acted like he didn't understand English, when I already heard him talking very good English to the driver.<br />
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The other family members had the same attitude with me.<br />
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This isn't where it all ends. When I exit the taxi, I meet a Russian couple on the street and get the same ignorant attitude. I am now really starting to wonder if this is the culture or just bad luck. Please be bad luck!<br />
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Anyways, I am now in Phuket, which will be the next blog post.<br />
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Talk soon all, and keep your minds open!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Phuket International Airport (HKT), Tambon Mai Khao, Amphoe Thalang, Chang Wat Phuket 83110, Thailand8.1110951 98.306464600000027-22.5509714 56.997870600000027 38.7731616 139.61505860000003tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-75449843350310322612016-03-24T08:06:00.000-04:002016-03-25T08:07:16.336-04:00Bohol - White Beach - Philippines - Got my days mixed up! Demon Gecko that smilesToday I am heading over to Bohol to see the Tarsier monkey and Chocolate hills. My first step is to purchase a ferry ticket at the Supercat terminal. <br />
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My taxi driver stops at the ticket counter, and I run in to get my ticket. I request a return ticket for Friday, thinking it was Monday. This gives me a few days to explorer on the 10th largest Island.<br />
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However, the ticket girl informs me, Friday the ferry is closed due to some holiday, that I later find out is Easter Friday. Anyways, the sign shows 500 pesos one way, and the girl tells me with the return it is 750 pesos. Great I save 250 pesos! OK, I actually still got ripped off. I later see on my ticket receipt it is 300 each way, when you buy both ways and I also confirmed later that it is 600 pesos. So, I still got ripped off 150 pesos. <br />
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What the hell is wrong with some people? Why do they rip off tourist any chance they get? I find this so sad, being such an awesome place. Tourist provide them so much income and they still feel the need to be less than human!<br />
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Another example of getting ripped off, is later the same day I bought 4 items from a bakery. All items are 5 pesos which comes to 20 pesos. The girl very sneaky charged me 30 pesos, and being an honest person I didn't think anything of it until a few minutes later. I find this low, because I know she would not do this to a local.<br />
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Anyways, back to the story.<br />
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The ferry ride over to Bohol only takes 2 hours and then another 45 minute ride on a motor trike to my hostel. The trike guy originally wanted 300 pesos, but agreed to 250 pesos. When we arrived at the hostel, he was such a nice guy and tried to carry my bags in for me, but had a hard time lifting it. He also gave me tons of information and was super nice. This is the type of guy that deserved more. When he gave me my change back from 500 pesos, I ended up giving him the extra 50 pesos and told him I wanted to pay more because he is a honest, great guy. By the way, 50 pesos is $1.30 CAD. He thanked me 5 times before leaving. <br />
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Good people deserve good things!<br />
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I checked into the hostel and in my dorm room I meed two young guys from Norway. Over the next few days we have a few great chats about Norway and places they have been that they loved.<br />
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That night I took a nice walk along the beach and decided to spend a few extra pesos for a nice sunset dinner on the beach.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XwQhmg21YV8/VvUeTEj37gI/AAAAAAAABPc/TKV4cPKO-6YKDs0BAcd-OZqFmsInWW9RQ/s1600/20160322_182503.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XwQhmg21YV8/VvUeTEj37gI/AAAAAAAABPc/TKV4cPKO-6YKDs0BAcd-OZqFmsInWW9RQ/s320/20160322_182503.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LLmRaQSQaQI/VvUeUCnWZTI/AAAAAAAABPk/dW3Y1ZPadl8ht2Mv4uf8wvebEGYS-BxHA/s1600/20160322_182524.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LLmRaQSQaQI/VvUeUCnWZTI/AAAAAAAABPk/dW3Y1ZPadl8ht2Mv4uf8wvebEGYS-BxHA/s320/20160322_182524.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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The next morning I eat breakfast and head out looking for ways to get to the Tarsier Monkeys and Chocolate hills. This is where I realized I missed up. Today is not Tuesday, but Wednesday and I am leaving tomorrow on the Ferry back to Cebu. Grrr, I missed today's excursion and the only other way is by taxi which cost way to much on my own. <br />
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Screw it, its OK. I am coming back and will see these cute little beast one day.<br />
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<a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7e/Bohol_Tarsier.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7e/Bohol_Tarsier.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I head back to my room and grab my mask and snorkel. I am going to see animals one way or another. :)<br />
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Down at the beach, I find several great spots for snorkeling. Check out these great pictures of star fish, little fish, and something I do not know what it is, but it is cool!<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_nJB-gs3q9Y/VvUgnM4kuHI/AAAAAAAABP4/U_Imq4Mo57AjH-jv1-lQPj8iah3cO4Ghw/s1600/2016_0323_093752_001.JPG" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wDPoXjxS2jA/VvUg2-ikFzI/AAAAAAAABQA/ygum47Q02JM8G0F27xAjrb8buHka5ntDg/s1600/Untitled.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wDPoXjxS2jA/VvUg2-ikFzI/AAAAAAAABQA/ygum47Q02JM8G0F27xAjrb8buHka5ntDg/s320/Untitled.png" width="320" /></a><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_nJB-gs3q9Y/VvUgnM4kuHI/AAAAAAAABP4/U_Imq4Mo57AjH-jv1-lQPj8iah3cO4Ghw/s320/2016_0323_093752_001.JPG" width="320" /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bQY3jQQrH6g/VvUgnJur6EI/AAAAAAAABP0/ODHb-LLVM88KwLFnl-RPjqGMPZemSaBOQ/s1600/2016_0323_093856_006.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bQY3jQQrH6g/VvUgnJur6EI/AAAAAAAABP0/ODHb-LLVM88KwLFnl-RPjqGMPZemSaBOQ/s320/2016_0323_093856_006.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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I spend most of the day enjoying the beach and eating super cheap, but yummy with some side street BBQ vendors.<br />
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Next morning my trip to Bohol is already over. I pack, and head down to the street to find a motor trike for a ride home.<br />
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As I am looking for a trike, a car pulls over and asks if he can give me a ride to the terminal for 300 pesos. I asked if he was a taxi and he said no, he is on his way there and was hoping to make an extra few dollars for gas. He looked like an honest guy, so I said sure. A nice AC car for the same price as a uncomfortable trike in the already 30 degree heat.<br />
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I get in and within a minute he starts with the common questions asked like, "Where are you from?, how long are you in the Philippines for? etc" I welcome his questions and also ask some back about him. <br />
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Fun part of the story, is he starts telling me about a girl her knows who just finished university and is working in the medical field. He tells me she is 25 and very pretty, the type of girl I should be looking for. He eventually tells me, this is his daughter and shows me a picture. Damn, is all I can say. She is super cute!<br />
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When we arrive at the terminal, he gets out of the car and gives me his name and number. Ronnie tells me, if I come back to the Philippines to give him a call and we can all go out for dinner :)<br />
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Ronnie is such a cool dad. I thought he was only 45 and he told me he is 62 this year. What do they drink here?<br />
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We say goodbye and I wish him the best!<br />
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The ferry ride back to Cebu is only half full and very relaxing ride.<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7NNebV-dWM4/VvUkG0-DkTI/AAAAAAAABQQ/YfwSBjht5uEYMDZtmjY58aKHGn-gr0qWQ/s1600/20160324_111528.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7NNebV-dWM4/VvUkG0-DkTI/AAAAAAAABQQ/YfwSBjht5uEYMDZtmjY58aKHGn-gr0qWQ/s320/20160324_111528.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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The taxi ride to the hotel was another, lets rip off the tourist. As he is driving I am using my GPS to see where he goes. I see he adds an extra few turns for no reason, when the road is straight to my hotel, and he didn't need to make a left and two rights to get back onto the same road. So I ask him why he took these roads for no reason, and I know he added an extra kilometer just to rip me off. He had no response and I could see it in his eyes that he knew I was right.<br />
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When we arrive the hotel he then drives past the front door, which was obvious and then slowly reverses trying again to get the toll higher. I then said stop very loud and aggressive. He stops and starts to get out without stopping the meter. I lean forward and his stop on the meter for him.<br />
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I then explain to him I would have given him a tip but am very unhappy he thinks he can rip off a tourist. He tried acting like he didn't know what I met, so I showed him the path he took and where he should have gone. He then says sorry and I give him 5 pesos less than the meter said. 5 pesos is nothing, but I wanted to make a point. He didn't argue as there was a security guard for the hotel standing beside me listening in.<br />
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I am a little frustrated at how people from 3rd world countries think sometimes. I don't mean this always happens, but when it does, it is frustrating.<br />
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Anyways, I am at the hotel and my opinion quickly changes again. I love Filipino people for the most part and this is one reason why.<br />
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Two small young guys that work at the hotel want to carry my bags up for me. I try to stop them because the one guy could barely get my backpack on. But then I decided to just help him get it on his back.<br />
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When we get to the room, they set my bags down, shake my hand and leave without asking for tips. As they are walking down the hall, both guys were signing. People here are always singing. I love it!<br />
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I am now at the hotel and ready for some needed R and R.<br />
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I normally would stop my blog post here, but since there is only one day left in the Philippines, I wanted to add my last little story to this blog.<br />
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The next day I headed out for some water, and when I came back, the same two guys were standing near my door way. <br />
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As I put my hand on the door knob a small gecko was on it and scared the shit out of me. I jumped like a girl when it moved. The two young guys couldn't contain themselves and they started laughing like little kids. Ok, I agree, it was funny as shit.<br />
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The gecko is now 5 feet from me on the floor, looking at me. I decided, this is my turn to pay him back. I start stomping my feet as I ran towards him, trying to scare him. Well, it didn't work and he ran between my feet and once again, I jumped like an idiot trying not to step on him. The young guys are now almost falling over laughing.<br />
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I didn't know what to say, and I was now laughing too. <br />
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The young guys finally stopped laughing and we talked for a minute, and then I went into my room feeling dumb and silly at the same time.<br />
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A little later on I went into the restroom for a tinkle. As I pull out the anaconda and start to relieve myself. That demon gecko ran across the top of the toilet, and spooked me again. I fucking pissed on my feet and hand. I know this is the same gecko, as I saw a smile on his face. The little bastard. I now think he is doing it on purpose. This is why I have named him Demo gecko.<br />
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That is my last story for the Philippines, as tomorrow I am heading to the Airport to fly the Thailand.<br />
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Talk soon all!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Bohol, Philippines9.8499910999999987 124.143542700000018.8488490999999989 122.85264920000002 10.851133099999998 125.43443620000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-44852843162139077392016-03-20T10:06:00.000-04:002016-03-25T03:27:08.657-04:00Cebu, Philippines - I can't believe I am seeing you again after 5 years!After saying goodbye to Malin in Moalboal, I jumped on a motor trike for the quick 10 minute ride into Moalboal. I love the mopeds and trikes. This would cost me $10 dollars back home and here it only cost 100 pesos, about $3.10 CAD.<br />
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Anyways, I am waiting in Moalboal for a bus, but today I decide to be picky and wait for a Aircon bus. We would call it AC or Air Conditioned bus.<br />
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3 buses pass, and then I see it, the AC bus, Wasn't a bad wait, only about 35 minutes in 34 degree heat with a hangover. Sometimes I don't make the best decisions the night before!<br />
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I jump on and pay the extremely cheap fare. 116 pesos ($3.20 CAD) for a 4 hour bus ride. Find that in Canada.<br />
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My seat buddy is a young Filipino, who is also sleepy like myself. I am not sure how, but he and I both sleep most of the ride to Cebu. So much so, that when we arrive in Cebu I was checking my GPS to see how much longer. I thought at least another hour. Nope, we are here.<br />
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A 20 minutes taxi ride later I am at my hotel and checked in. I am loving my room, small, clean and has excellent internet. <br />
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That night I just relax, and watch some TV, while I recuperate from my hangover. The one thing I did do is message an old friend from 5 years or more ago, from when I lived in Victoria, BC. Jessica is arriving in Cebu tomorrow and I can't wait to catch up.<br />
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How did I meet Jessica? Well when I lived back in Victoria, BC, I advertised for a house cleaner, and she was one of the few who responded. I can't recall what about her resume stood out, but from the minute I met her, I knew she was an amazing person. Back then she was dating an Aussie guy, and was traveling back and forth from Australia to be with him. She was a young 24, but had already traveled all over the world.<br />
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I remember one night, I barely knew her, and she invited me over to her place for a pretty awesome dinner, with her boyfriend. She is always a very inviting person, and you couldn't help but really like her.<br />
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Well fast forward to 6 months ago, I was on Facebook stalking Jess, and looking at all of her amazing travel pictures and stories. I decided to message her and tell her, she has inspired me to to the same. At that point I hadn't told anyone I had made the decision to leave, but I did told Jess. Her email back was truly inspirational and I knew I must do this.<br />
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Jessica met me at my hotel the next morning and I was so much in shock to see her again, I didn't really even know what to say. The real Jessica is standing right here in front of me. Wow!<br />
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We spend a few minutes catching up and then She decides to book a room in the same hotel and stay the night. <br />
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Well, that night Jess and I went out for a beer at a Irish Pub here in Cebu Philippines, and then off to dinner.<br />
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Our dinner conversion was amazing, I love all of her stories. We share so many great things about our past and how we both got to this point. I hope in another 5 years we get to meet again, in another random country. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dp6kimnse3I/VvTlxp-Kp6I/AAAAAAAABPM/lrPf9a1Y530Zm65h6kvNmUPs_2kYO8Cnw/s1600/received_10153898490518260.jpeg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dp6kimnse3I/VvTlxp-Kp6I/AAAAAAAABPM/lrPf9a1Y530Zm65h6kvNmUPs_2kYO8Cnw/s320/received_10153898490518260.jpeg" width="320" /></a><br />
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The next morning Jess and I have breakfast together and then it happens. We have to say goodbye for now, once again. <br />
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Jess, you are an inspiration to all, and I hope you will keep being the amazing person you are!<br />
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Goodbye Jess!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines10.3156992 123.8854366000000510.0657982 123.56271310000005 10.565600199999999 124.20816010000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-24954842296413266552016-03-19T02:44:00.000-04:002016-03-23T02:44:53.632-04:00Moalboal Philippines - Sardines and unexpected man crushes! GREAT CANADIANS!After Oslob, Marlin and I bused to White Beach 7 kilometers from Moalboal. The bus ride is about 3 hours in total.<br />
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While on the bus, I noticed two cute dutch girls looking a little lost. So, I ask them where they are off too, and they tell me. I then grab my phone and spend a few minutes finding the hotel for them and tell them, what they need to tell the driver. He will stop at the hotel front door. <br />
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As the bus gets closer to their hotel I let them know and make sure they don't miss it.<br />
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The two girls are so happy with my help, when they got dropped off, the one girl said thanks a hundred times.<br />
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Malin turns to me and says, "You are such a <b>Canadian</b>!" I guess I have helped a few people while she was around. I love how she relates to being honest and helpful as <b>Canadian</b>!<br />
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Keep it up <b>Canadians</b>! Even the Fins think we are amazing people!<br />
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In Moalboal I had already booked a bungalow for myself, but did not include Malin. At the time I thought she was coming a day later. Unfortunately this caused a tone of confusion when we arrived. The owner did not speak English, but a guest spoke English and was able to translate. However, this guest was not helping as he was not telling the owner what was asked.<br />
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It was very simple. I have a bungalow with one bed reserved and paid for. Is there another bungalow with 2 beds, that we could rent for the 1 night, or can we add a matters to the current bungalow, and how much extra do we need to pay? If this is a no, that is not an issue, we can find Malin another room. There are heaps of resorts all over.<br />
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This simple thing caused us an hour of repeating ourselves, and still getting no answer. They initially told us there are two other bungalows available, one with a big bed, one with two beds. I am like, "Great! How much for the one with two beds?" The response, "We don't know!" So I kindly asked if they can find out.<br />
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15 more minutes goes by, and they finally say, "No you can't rent it, it is booked" <br />
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With process of elimination, I declare that only my bungalow is free. So, I then asked can she stay with me or not. <br />
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Another 10 minutes goes by, and I finally get an answer, "Yes!". Malin and I say. "Great! Done!"<br />
<br />
Oh wait for it, it is not over! There is going to be a charge for an extra person. Once more with feeling, "How much?"<br />
<br />
He doesn't know, but with luck his wife shows up and speaks English. We ask her the same question and she starts to go off on this explanation, and I somewhat rudely stop her and say, "This is a simple question, I do not want a story, all I want to know, is how much?" He starts to talk and I stop her again, and say, "How much?" She response, "300 pesos." I look at Malin and ask, all good? she is like for sure!<br />
<br />
We then both say thank you and the owners wife adds a second matters.<br />
<br />
Wow! That's all I can say about that.<br />
<br />
The bungalow itself was really nice. I really enjoyed it and if it was closer to a nice beach, I would stay longer.<br />
<br />
That evening Malin and I checked out the local beach, which is nice but not a lot to see. Just some swimming and cheap beers, but great for a night.<br />
<br />
That night Malin fell even more ill. She now fully has the same sickness I had. But again, she is a super trooper and pulls through.<br />
<br />
The next morning we pack and head to Panagsama Beach. We heard from our taxi driver it is the place to go too. <br />
<br />
Panagsama Beach is only 4 kilometers from White Beach and is a nice little town. We went to a few hotels to find prices and ended up settling for a very nice place right on the water. Malin paid a little more to get an AC room for a few nights until she is over the illness.<br />
<br />
Over the next two days, I spent most of my time snorkeling and walking around town, looking at all the cool sites.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=texoRldN2lE" target="_blank">Check out my snorkeling video. Has some really cool Sardines :)</a><br />
<br />
The one day I was walking along the main street minding my own business when I feel someone grabbing my ass. I am like, "What the hell, and keep doing it!" As I turn around to see how much I owed for this nice gesture, I see it is my man crush, David. He has been here for a few days and when he told me where he was going, I completely thought it was up north, not here.<br />
<br />
What a great surprise!<br />
<br />
Dave and I hangout that night and catch up.<br />
<br />
The next day Malin is still under the weather, so David and I go into town and do some shopping. He has a night planned and has invited tones of people for drinks at the peer, and then after a night of disco and drinking.<br />
<br />
While waiting for Shit Fest to start, we head over to the peer and see a young American being harassed by young local girls. Ranging in age of 9 to 14. I have to tell you, they are some of the funniest kids I have met. The one girl keeps sneaking up behind us, trying to scare us. While the others toss water at us. <br />
<br />
Some pictures of the girls playing!<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hgCfu3rD6eU/VvI5VjnnVRI/AAAAAAAABOI/eQ4zj-1LkGAYrAlgG6AXbR88LuoEFI3Qg/s1600/20160319_124255.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hgCfu3rD6eU/VvI5VjnnVRI/AAAAAAAABOI/eQ4zj-1LkGAYrAlgG6AXbR88LuoEFI3Qg/s320/20160319_124255.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WQj43aK8rWg/VvI5WCpGDuI/AAAAAAAABOQ/21ic6DY8CU4n_J4XW-XsgWxxFCNLKp2CA/s1600/20160319_123752.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WQj43aK8rWg/VvI5WCpGDuI/AAAAAAAABOQ/21ic6DY8CU4n_J4XW-XsgWxxFCNLKp2CA/s320/20160319_123752.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lhmvyjM3yHs/VvI5YGNnRaI/AAAAAAAABOg/mFSOfIhd5DY0v9RF4jgnVSkWEJMDL-BFA/s1600/20160319_123450.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lhmvyjM3yHs/VvI5YGNnRaI/AAAAAAAABOg/mFSOfIhd5DY0v9RF4jgnVSkWEJMDL-BFA/s320/20160319_123450.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VLGPmLInIFs/VvI5WNn_DKI/AAAAAAAABOY/Zsr0Owb-2tYwmIV73oInaWLaoZSDF9u2w/s1600/20160319_124446.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VLGPmLInIFs/VvI5WNn_DKI/AAAAAAAABOY/Zsr0Owb-2tYwmIV73oInaWLaoZSDF9u2w/s320/20160319_124446.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Fast forward to 8 PM, I find Dave and we grab his local flavored booze and my bottle of beer/rum/cinnamon. The peer is across the road and we sneak on. You are not allowed on unless you pay a fee, which is crazy. No one is even on it.<br />
<br />
We try our 4 bottles and decide they all SUCK! and Hope others show up soon, so they can help.<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gy720sODfqc/VvI5lNDKN2I/AAAAAAAABO4/yTRQ7-BADAkL734TfRVh95jOf0YwtQM4A/s1600/20160319_144604.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gy720sODfqc/VvI5lNDKN2I/AAAAAAAABO4/yTRQ7-BADAkL734TfRVh95jOf0YwtQM4A/s320/20160319_144604.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Znb63Oif3sw/VvI5jJMAHsI/AAAAAAAABOo/q-B7uySiGlolJt6laz3ns2b8Jr3J3oCgg/s1600/20160319_144547.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Znb63Oif3sw/VvI5jJMAHsI/AAAAAAAABOo/q-B7uySiGlolJt6laz3ns2b8Jr3J3oCgg/s320/20160319_144547.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
<br />
Eventually a couple of Swedes show up and help us. A young guy and girl. Not sure of their names, but they were a lot of fun.<br />
<br />
Later in the night we head to the disco and the fluids go down even better. Dave keeps buying tubes of beer. Not sure how many are in a tube, but its more than a few.<br />
<br />
At some point we start hanging out with the biggest Mexican I have ever met. He is such a cool guy as well and we have a tone of fun. I don't remember much of it, until my walk home.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-faZ-m7hVh8g/VvI5k4ErdiI/AAAAAAAABO0/RQXkNLzxYhg0o_3a8jtjRX_sI2xZT5KIA/s1600/20160320_000233.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-faZ-m7hVh8g/VvI5k4ErdiI/AAAAAAAABO0/RQXkNLzxYhg0o_3a8jtjRX_sI2xZT5KIA/s320/20160320_000233.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Earlier in the day I met two young, hot, French Canadian girls who I invited out with us. They got lost and didn't make it to the disco. However, on my walk home I stumble across one of the two girls. She was the one of the two that did not talk. I find out quickly she didn't talk because she thought I was cute. She has had a few drinks and just blurts it out. In my state of mind, I decided to ask her if she could tuck me into bed, because I lost David. She agrees and is a great replacement :)<br />
<br />
That morning I wake up feeling a little worse for ware, but I have to commute back to Cebu, so I force myself up and go for breakfast.<br />
<br />
I see Malin and the two French girls sitting there, so I gracefully walk over and sit down trying to hide I feel like ass.<br />
<br />
We all have some good chats and I say goodbye to the French girls and give the one a wink when no one is looking. ;)<br />
<br />
Just before I leave, I say goodbye to Malin, a new amazing friend who I will come visit in Finland next year.<br />
<br />
The trip to Cebu and meeting an old friend from when I lived Victoria, BC, Canada up next!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Moalboal, 6032 Cebu, Philippines9.9556609000000016 123.400759800000069.8305364000000015 123.23939830000006 10.080785400000002 123.56212130000006tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-33422268190647355982016-03-16T01:54:00.000-04:002016-03-21T01:55:41.442-04:00Cebu to Oslob Philippines - Swimming with Whale SharksFinding the bus to Oslob was very easy, and leaves every 30 minutes from the South Terminal in Cebu. With a few minute wait at the terminal a new bus arrives and Malin and I board. <br />
<br />
The trip to Oslob was little over 4 hours, but goes by rather quickly as I try to annoy Malin the entire way. When she finally gets board of me, I decide to find a new way to entertain myself, by waving at every local I see on the side of the road. I wanted to see how many would wave back. This goes on for about an hour, and I am sure Malin now thinks I am a nut case. :)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OAD264uWhYM/Vu-FWic9ywI/AAAAAAAABM8/1lrEVVUe0R465h7hmmdeiurX5lxywX1DQ/s1600/20160315_164014.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OAD264uWhYM/Vu-FWic9ywI/AAAAAAAABM8/1lrEVVUe0R465h7hmmdeiurX5lxywX1DQ/s320/20160315_164014.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
As always, when we arrive at the hotel location, it is wrong but the locals standing beside the road point us in the right direction and 10 minutes later we are there. <br />
<br />
Malin and I get a shared room to cut down on the cost. <br />
<br />
The new place is decent with a flushing toilet, but no seat. I later find out that shitting without a lid is a challenge when you get a leg cramp and almost fall over. But no one wants to hear that story.<br />
<br />
That evening Malin and I decide to play billiards with a local boy who has a crush on Malin. I do nothing to help her and find it very funny when he invites her to his room. She says thank you, but no. Aww another broken heart!<br />
<br />
We also indulged that night with a local bottle of rum, which cost a very reasonable 35 pesos ($1.05 CAD)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zeF20lbfsV4/Vu-GN2TiU6I/AAAAAAAABNQ/lS5yFzL_quYHqXXzy64-BkWmKuHoHcQrQ/s1600/20160315_205747.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zeF20lbfsV4/Vu-GN2TiU6I/AAAAAAAABNQ/lS5yFzL_quYHqXXzy64-BkWmKuHoHcQrQ/s320/20160315_205747.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o2YFrERLH-w/Vu-GNCc3M1I/AAAAAAAABNI/U0ikbpM52tUqav455tBPYm6G6vSb8OsvA/s1600/20160315_202436.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o2YFrERLH-w/Vu-GNCc3M1I/AAAAAAAABNI/U0ikbpM52tUqav455tBPYm6G6vSb8OsvA/s320/20160315_202436.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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The next morning I wake up shortly after 5 am and I toss a pillow at Malin's head to wake her up. Yes, I am sure she loves me by now. :)<br />
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By 6 am we are on our way to the Whale Sharks. Our first adventure using a motorbike tricycle. The driver is an older guy who is also laughing at something. I can never understand him, but laugh along.<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qyUOe6OhorU/Vu-HWsVQ6qI/AAAAAAAABNk/AKoPbEbAfkcPhTidzJXilZf_SQRKinMUg/s1600/SnapShot%25280%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qyUOe6OhorU/Vu-HWsVQ6qI/AAAAAAAABNk/AKoPbEbAfkcPhTidzJXilZf_SQRKinMUg/s320/SnapShot%25280%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X-As0EIydFw/Vu-HWRTbjqI/AAAAAAAABNc/_0q7bFSWnxE-wNAVvjnKNvtp-IHYHdZRg/s1600/SnapShot.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X-As0EIydFw/Vu-HWRTbjqI/AAAAAAAABNc/_0q7bFSWnxE-wNAVvjnKNvtp-IHYHdZRg/s320/SnapShot.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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15 minutes later and we are at the Whale Shark gates. I quickly check in and pay the 1000 pesos ($30 CAD) for the boat ride out.<br />
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Snorkeling with the Whale sharks last about 30 minutes but is more than worth it. These dudes are massive and so cool to look at. <br />
<br />
Take a look at my video link below.<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQQTZZWtC70" target="_blank">Click me to see the Whale Sharks</a><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XdHAVTqJ_0o/Vu-KSv6SJhI/AAAAAAAABN0/gfhhdUArH4UZeGBng2p7uMoutXvN24ADA/s1600/2016_0316_062801_010.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XdHAVTqJ_0o/Vu-KSv6SJhI/AAAAAAAABN0/gfhhdUArH4UZeGBng2p7uMoutXvN24ADA/s320/2016_0316_062801_010.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kTEwjv7XD1o/Vu-KSqctfII/AAAAAAAABN4/fOoEAdMo2QUnr9EgPARM8dAg8iUNT4ntA/s1600/2016_0316_062720_001.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kTEwjv7XD1o/Vu-KSqctfII/AAAAAAAABN4/fOoEAdMo2QUnr9EgPARM8dAg8iUNT4ntA/s320/2016_0316_062720_001.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
After the whale sharks we take another tricycle back to our hotel to get some needed rest. <br />
<br />
I forgot to mention but I am still suffering from massive cramps and still needed to find some medication.<br />
<br />
Around noon I decide to take the 5 minute trip into Oslob and see if I can find meds. The tricycle taxi only cost 8 pesos either way, which is like 15 cents. Ridiculously cheap.<br />
<br />
Right where the taxi drops me off, there is a local pharmacy. I walk in and ask if they have any of the antibiotics on my list. The girl says yes and is super helpful. She even gave me recommendations, and the pills. All for 28 pesos, less than a dollar. <br />
<br />
I take the first pill with water, and in less than 2 hours I have no cramps. This is amazing, I feel better than I have in a month. Even the heat is no longer killing me. I am just sweating like a normal chubby Canadian.<br />
<br />
While in town I found a couple food stands selling some great BBQ. My favorites were Chicken legs, Fish on a stick, and Chicken Spring Rolls, which I ate too many of and don't care. Mmmm good!<br />
<br />
The rest of the day, Malin and I go back into town and find several cool places for local food and drinks. So many fresh fruit milkshakes were drank all for less than a dollar. <br />
<br />
That night we take it a little easier as Malin is now starting to feel the same way I did for the last week. :( However, I have to say, she is a trooper, even maybe a super trooper. She never lets the sickness get in the way of her fun.<br />
<br />
The next day we take our time and pack, and then catch the next bus to Moalboal. <br />
<br />
How do you catch a bus when there is no bus stops. You stand in the middle of the road and wave like a mad man, hoping they stop. Normally they do!<br />
<br />
Anyways, 3 hours later we arrive in Moaboal. More to come on swimming with Sardines and meeting old friends unexpectedly.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Oslob, Cebu, Philippines9.5630395 123.415926300000029.3124815 123.09320280000003 9.8135975 123.73864980000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-55181624918199364202016-03-14T06:01:00.000-04:002016-03-19T06:01:59.016-04:00Cebu - Lapu Lapu, Philippines - I am sick?My first night in the Philippines doesn't go as planned. I wake up in the middle of the night, soaked in sweat, and freezing cold. This cannot be good. My stomach is cramping, but I don't have to go to the relief room. I do my best to fall back asleep, but the rest of the night is filled with sweating and freezing at the same time. <br />
<br />
Early in the morning, I start to feel fine, but I now have these massive cramps. By the middle of the day, I start contemplating taking Midol. BUT, I am too young to be going through the Change!<br />
<br />
I end up calling my next reservation and request to come 2 days late. I don't want to travel 5 to 6 hours on a local bus and end up having to use a restroom, which doesn't exist. I remember this from Indonesia where the driver told me he can stop and I can use the alley way. Please No!<br />
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Over the next two days, nothing changes. The cramping comes and goes every 15 minutes or so. I read online that I need to take antibiotics, and I try to get some at the local pharmacy, but they say I need a prescription. I know I can get them without, so I just wait.<br />
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During the two days, I meeting a few new friends. The first is Malin. She is a 30 year old artsy girl from Finland, who is super cool. We go for walks everyday and share some cool stories. She also isn't feeling great, so we have that type of complaining to share. :)<br />
<br />
I also meet this really confident, cool guy from Drunkin Dunkin, BC, Canada, named David. He and I have similar stories, where we sold everything and decided to travel. He is 40, but is in the shape of a 20 year old, which I am a bit, or a lot jealous about. I don't let this get in the way of us being great friends.<br />
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There is also a young Japanese girl, Mika, who is staying at the hostel and it is her 28th birthday, which is the same day as the 1 year anniversary of the hostel. This turns out to be a major bonus.<br />
<br />
The owner of the hostel takes us all out for dinner to a place called, Lantaw. It is a restaurant on top of the highest peak near Cebu City. You can see the entire city from the patio.<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/LantawNativeRestaurant/" target="_blank">Lantaw Website</a><br />
<br />
So that night we all pack into 2 vans and head up the long drive, up the hill. When we arrive, you cannot imagine the view we have.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B7bms9mUJSI/Vu0f5yIzWgI/AAAAAAAABL0/1rCsacQy8FA31829A_h1Np4ShXzOkh0ZQ/s1600/20160313_213128_LLS.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B7bms9mUJSI/Vu0f5yIzWgI/AAAAAAAABL0/1rCsacQy8FA31829A_h1Np4ShXzOkh0ZQ/s320/20160313_213128_LLS.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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We all put on silly hats and have several drinks, lots of amazing food, and a great time. I can't go into all the details, so just look at the pictures.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iwV4fBfKq7E/Vu0gdwWX8NI/AAAAAAAABMc/WqgbA2afIcQgkGF8MjZbfHuPT7Sk6GAwg/s1600/20160313_213831.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iwV4fBfKq7E/Vu0gdwWX8NI/AAAAAAAABMc/WqgbA2afIcQgkGF8MjZbfHuPT7Sk6GAwg/s320/20160313_213831.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cxNfx-H4a6A/Vu0gSrqoPII/AAAAAAAABL8/CJsoKt9rpCkYxIvFBSA1ycRiR1ehElZMA/s1600/20160313_213740.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cxNfx-H4a6A/Vu0gSrqoPII/AAAAAAAABL8/CJsoKt9rpCkYxIvFBSA1ycRiR1ehElZMA/s320/20160313_213740.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pUJxDpVuYAg/Vu0gbfMPemI/AAAAAAAABMM/2meRGjdgDVo3y9fA-sW6l1YMNqegPlisQ/s1600/20160314_004622.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pUJxDpVuYAg/Vu0gbfMPemI/AAAAAAAABMM/2meRGjdgDVo3y9fA-sW6l1YMNqegPlisQ/s320/20160314_004622.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7lEK7e-xFt4/Vu0gbTJWBuI/AAAAAAAABME/0_yvj2hlfiYZCi7cSUgkBwFzGSw7j6f-A/s1600/20160313_223810.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7lEK7e-xFt4/Vu0gbTJWBuI/AAAAAAAABME/0_yvj2hlfiYZCi7cSUgkBwFzGSw7j6f-A/s320/20160313_223810.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cZeX52Jx45s/Vu0gdENWujI/AAAAAAAABMU/4uF-KM0pd_0Pzn8ACTlna8_-0B-9KZFkg/s1600/20160313_222852.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cZeX52Jx45s/Vu0gdENWujI/AAAAAAAABMU/4uF-KM0pd_0Pzn8ACTlna8_-0B-9KZFkg/s320/20160313_222852.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
At the end of the evening, we find out the owner is paying for everything, including drinks and taxi service. If you ever want a great place to stay, check out Nemo Lounge in Cebu.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.nemoguesthousevisayas.com/" target="_blank">Nemo Lounge</a><br />
<br />
Thank you so much for the amazing time both at dinner and the 4 nights I spent getting to know you all.<br />
<br />
4 Nights have passed and I decide to just take my chances with the cramping and head to Oslob for some Whale Shark snorkeling. <br />
<br />
Not long before I leave, Malin decides she wants to come with me, and I think it might be cool to travel together for a bit and share some cost. I obviously say yes! <br />
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It doesn't take her long and she is packed and ready. We also find out that David, the OTHER Canadian is going to the same bus terminal. This is great, we all split on a taxi ride.<br />
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When we arrive at the ferry, with a twinkle in my eye I say goodbye to David. I am sure if Malin was not there, we both would have teared up. He is my long lost brother.<br />
<br />
Bye David, until we meet again!<br />
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Malin and I are on the bus and on our way. Wish me luck and play to the poop Gods, I make it.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MLJc-_n6Bnc/Vu0hxH5vhbI/AAAAAAAABMs/ZOZYzSoMMo8rXVUoH8nZyIg0Do-9eEeuw/s1600/20160315_164014.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MLJc-_n6Bnc/Vu0hxH5vhbI/AAAAAAAABMs/ZOZYzSoMMo8rXVUoH8nZyIg0Do-9eEeuw/s320/20160315_164014.jpg" width="320" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines10.3156992 123.8854366000000510.0657982 123.56271310000005 10.565600199999999 124.20816010000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-29649396802720305772016-03-09T19:25:00.000-05:002016-03-17T20:26:24.859-04:00Cebu Philippines - Flying from Kuta Bali - What a long daysThis is going to sound like a negative post, but really I am just stating the facts about my commute to the Philippines.<br />
<br />
My luxury hotel in Kuta had told me when I checked in, that it was OK if I left my bags at the front desk and hung out around the pool for the day, because my flight is not until 6:45 PM that night. However, that morning the guy who told me this was not there and the girl said this is not possible. Check out time is noon, no exceptions.<br />
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She did give me a free taxi to the airport.<br />
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It is now just before 1 pm and I am at the Kuta Airport, and something I never imagined is the airport does not have air condition. I am sitting and sweating like a mad man. By 2 pm and I soaked in sweat, not exactly what I want for a 17 hour commute to Cebu.<br />
<br />
Eventually enough time passes by that I can check in and get through security, and this part of the airport is a little cooler, but I am still sweating.<br />
<br />
One thing I should mention, is when I checked in, I got both tickets, the one for Kuta to Singapore and the next, from Singapore to Cebu, but the check in girl had mentioned I had to get my bag in Singapore. I should have clued into what she met.<br />
<br />
6:45 pm is here and I am on the plane. My luck has changed and I get the entire first row to myself and the air condition is working. However, I probably smell like Bigfoot's balls, but who cares. I am cool!<br />
<br />
The flight went by fast and we are in Singapore.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dVb9LjFc5yw/VutKp7AeFeI/AAAAAAAABLQ/6nKHrm8gU1QNL-CLVf28ijg1zOvQRG-yg/s1600/20160310_181955.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dVb9LjFc5yw/VutKp7AeFeI/AAAAAAAABLQ/6nKHrm8gU1QNL-CLVf28ijg1zOvQRG-yg/s320/20160310_181955.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-akg-MhHXIxo/VutKyJt0W5I/AAAAAAAABLY/9Y1GC7TmAsg_d481UD_HJdyLcwJ-LjfZA/s1600/20160310_183441.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-akg-MhHXIxo/VutKyJt0W5I/AAAAAAAABLY/9Y1GC7TmAsg_d481UD_HJdyLcwJ-LjfZA/s320/20160310_183441.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
I exit the plane and go find my bag, and then it hits me. I am exiting the airport, and will have to check in again. So, before I exit to get my bag, I ask someone if maybe my bag is actually going all the way because I have both tickets. The person confirmed that my bag is not going all the way and my second ticket is garbage, I will need to recheck in with my bag.<br />
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The problem with this is, you cannot check in until 2 hours before your flight, and I have a 11 hour layover. Waiting in this area of the airport sucks, because everything is behind security, such as food, sleeping area, etc.<br />
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I go over to the tigerair counter and see if I can get my ticket early or not. It is 9:00 pm and he says, no come back at 11 pm. 2 hour wait isn't as bad as 9.<br />
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2 hours goes by and I walk back over, a new guy is there and says, come back at 1 am.<br />
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2 hours goes by again, and I walk back over. A new girl is there and she says, sure. As she is checking me in, she realizes why my bag did not go all the way through. It is because I do not have a return ticket out of the Philippines, and the other didn't want the hassle of asking my to get one, so she just stopped by bag here. Lesson learned! I will still take the chance of not having a return ticket, and if they request it or something like this happens, I will just get one on the spot.<br />
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So, that is exactly what I had to do here. They wouldn't let me through until I had a return ticket out of the Philippines. Not an issue, I will book a cheap ticket with cancellation insurance.<br />
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This ends up being another adventure. I don't have internet. They tell me to go to the information center and get a free pass.<br />
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The information center gives me a free pass, but the password is type incorrectly. This is another challenge explaining this to the information center, and eventually the person tries it themselves and says. It is incorrect. Fuck my Life! Anyways, I am not logged in.<br />
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I find a flight, but the internet is so slow, it fails when paying twice. Uhhhhh!<br />
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I head over to the TigerAir desk and ask if I can book the ticket here, as it is through their airline. I remember the good old days, when this was possible. Nope, you must do it online! <br />
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I stand there for a minute and go, Fuck My Life! once more, but this time with <b>feeling</b>!<br />
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The guy says, oh wait, you can use my phone and call the booking center. Cool! He dials the number, "Sorry, we are only open from 7 am to 7 pm, click!" Do I need to say it?<br />
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I tell him and he says, oh yeah, it is 1:30 am.<br />
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I decide to try my luck with the highspeed dailup internet, and oh my god! it works. I have a ticket. I almost jump up and down, but I am too lazy.<br />
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I finally get checked in, and go through security, on my mission to find the free sleeping area posted all over the Singapore website.<br />
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1 hour of walking and there is no such thing! They are both closed for cleaning. Yes, they clean the sleeping area at night. I am not sure if you see the stupidy here or not. I did, as I see people sleeping all over on the floor, on benches.<br />
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I googled the airport to see where the free movie room is, where lots of people find a good place to sleep. I find it, and guess what. Open 24 hour a day, 7 days a week, the sign shows. However, another sign below shows, closed from 1 am to 4 am for cleaning.<br />
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There is no real place to sneak off to and sleep, so I decide just to wait it out, and drink some coffee. Singapore airport, your website lies!<br />
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My next flight to Cebu is here and I am off. I can't beleive I am still awake at 9 am, and I am not even that tired.<br />
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The flight itself went by rather fast, and I met another new friend. Her name is Cynthia and she is from Cebu, but works as a house cleaner in Singapore. I guessed her age of 22, but then she told me, no she is 31. What do these people drink, to look so damn young?<br />
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We had some pretty cool conversations and she gave me her number to maybe meet up again in Cebu, but I lost that number somewhere between customs and security.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mOYPZNROOqU/VutK_ICI1xI/AAAAAAAABLg/_nrn6Bb1Ya8e7gtqRzzgJ-SH4fOPiiPKg/s1600/20160312_110452.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mOYPZNROOqU/VutK_ICI1xI/AAAAAAAABLg/_nrn6Bb1Ya8e7gtqRzzgJ-SH4fOPiiPKg/s320/20160312_110452.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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A short 15 minute taxi ride and I am in my hostel, ready for some needed rest. Until tomorrow Cebu!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines10.3156992 123.8854366000000510.0657982 123.56271310000005 10.565600199999999 124.20816010000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-66515564921408640552016-03-09T05:21:00.000-05:002016-03-14T05:25:00.985-04:00Kuta, Bali - My last day and the day of silence (Nyepi)My last two days in Indonesia, I decided to spend a few extra dollars and stay in a nice hotel with a pool, hot water and a comfy bed. Online I found a great deal for around $30 dollars a night, but they wanted me to pay using credit card. I didn't want to use my credit card, because I was trying to spend my remaining cash before leaving. So I took the chance and did not book it and just arrived.<br />
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It all worked out and I got the room for the online price. The room is really nice with hot water, and a flushing toilet. Score me! lol. It even has a very nice balcony over looking the pool, where I see 3 cute German girls suntanning. All that is missing is a cold beer.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rB7L9qCfjgg/VuZ_8n_rGRI/AAAAAAAABLA/JUlORe6uEQUOrlDC5m1sXY8wNGkQlDK4w/s1600/20160308_183248.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rB7L9qCfjgg/VuZ_8n_rGRI/AAAAAAAABLA/JUlORe6uEQUOrlDC5m1sXY8wNGkQlDK4w/s320/20160308_183248.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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When I checked in, I found out that tomorrow is March 9, which is the day of silence (Nyepi) here in Bali. I am not going to write a big article about what it is, but just give a quick overview. It is their new years day and on this day, everyone must be quiet, no cars on the streets and even the airport is closed. I am not allowed to leave the hotel that day, and all of my windows are blacked out in case I turn on the lights at night. <br />
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For some this might sound like crap to go through, but for me, this is really cool to have the opportunity to experience their true culture.<br />
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<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nyepi" target="_blank">Here is a link you can click on if you want to read more about it.</a><br />
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After getting settled in, I head out for some food for the room and to see some of the people getting ready for tomorrow.<br />
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I see some pretty cool things, mostly people sitting in front of their homes burning incense while praying. Definitely not something I would see back home.<br />
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Eventually I found a local grocery store, with only locals, no tourist. This is the best type of store to find, because all prices are market and there is no tourist markup price. <br />
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I find some super cheap fresh fruit and Bingtan beer, which everywhere else was 35,000 IDR, but here it is 17,000 IDR ($2 CAD).<br />
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I now have all I need and head back to the room.<br />
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The rest of the evening is just relaxing, swimming and watching some local TV.<br />
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The day of silence has arrived and it is more than I was expecting. I truly thought people would break the rules, but no. No one was around. From my balcony, I could see some streets and not a single person was around. I could not even hear a car in the distance or people talking.<br />
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I decided to embrace the silence (Nyepi) and join in. I spent a good part of the day thinking about life, my travels and what I want in life. Beer did help with these inner thoughts :). But it was a really amazing day and helped me realize what my step is going to be in life!<br />
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The day of silence (Nyepi) slowly comes to and end, and it is now the next day.<br />
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I will miss Indonesia and all the amazing people I met. <br />
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Good bye! I will be back for more adventures!<br />
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<i><u>Take Care All and keep Bali Clean!</u></i><br />
<i><u><br /></u></i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Kuta, Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia-8.7237964 115.17522770000005-8.8493554 115.01386620000005 -8.5982373999999986 115.33658920000005tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-82649561764261898932016-03-07T01:00:00.000-05:002016-03-09T01:04:02.279-05:00Gili Meno, Lombok, Indonesia - Meeting some amazing peopleGili Meno is the middle of the 3 Gili Islands, and is the quietest Island. Most people go to Gili Trawangan for partying, and people, and then the remaining go to Gili Air for a little more relaxing time, but with some nightlight. Gili Meno, no nightlife, just relaxing. I knew this was the place for me, as I did not want to spent a lot of money partying, and really wanted to meet more locals and see how they lived their lives.<br />
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Gili Meno ended up being a great choice!<br />
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When I arrived at my bungalow, I met with the young 19 year old guy who is running the show. I asked him if I could see the bungalow before paying. He agrees with no arguments and shows me it. It looks great, and is exactly what I am looking for. I had only booked it for 2 nights but asked if I could extend it for a full week. He says no problem and gives me a little better deal per night, which comes out to 150,000 IDR ($15 CAD) per night.<br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGbRO0-AHXs" target="_blank">Click this link to see my walk through of my bungalow.</a><br />
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Over the next week I had a pretty common routine. I would wake up around 7 am, check emails, roll around in bed and then finally get out and walk two bungalows over for breakfast around 8 am. Between 9 and 10 am, I would take the long 3 minute hike to the beach, and do some snorkeling. Lunch during these days consisted of local bananas and some kind of fruit / ice drink. The afternoon were either some work on the PC or a short nap, and walking around the Island. Evenings I would find a place to eat, and then some more walking, with the evenings wrapping up by watching a movie on my PC.<br />
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You can't get much better of a life than that!<br />
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During the week I met some really cool people and will talk about them now.<br />
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Earlier in the week during breakfast I met a young couple from the UK. John and his girlfriend, Cynthia. They have been traveling around Asia for about 5 months now, searching for amazing dive locations. John is a certified diver and Cynthia is on her way to becoming fully certified here on Gili Meno. We enjoyed a few pizzas together during the week and they had some really awesome stories to tell me about their travels.<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eK01Xlc67ds/Vt-XoZXmYzI/AAAAAAAABJU/S28Wk_OQCsg/s1600/20160304_203228.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eK01Xlc67ds/Vt-XoZXmYzI/AAAAAAAABJU/S28Wk_OQCsg/s320/20160304_203228.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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During the middle of the week, I don't recall which day, I was walking to the North side of the Island going past the salt water pond, when another guy was passing me going in the opposite direction, and he stopped me to ask, "How do I get to the beach!" My first thought was, what beach because it is an Island, and all directions lead to a beach. He just arrived and said he wanted to do some snorkeling, but the road is flooded the direction I am going. I told him I am on my way to a nice beach and he can come with if he wants. He said Yes with a big smile! So, this is how I met Edwardo, from Spain.<br />
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Edwardo and I hung out several times over the next few days, snorkeling, eating dinner together and just walking around having some great conversations. He gave me some great tips on where to go and what to see in Spain. I know someday these will come in handy.<br />
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This is the only picture I found that I had of him. He is the white guy. lol. The other picture is if of the flooded road.<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5BXh-bRO43M/Vt-Z0uKs6aI/AAAAAAAABJg/U1enCA5QN_4/s1600/20160306_170024.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5BXh-bRO43M/Vt-Z0uKs6aI/AAAAAAAABJg/U1enCA5QN_4/s320/20160306_170024.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8UrOtHB5Sak/Vt-Z4IfB-sI/AAAAAAAABJo/u--062d3qjM/s1600/20160306_171747.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8UrOtHB5Sak/Vt-Z4IfB-sI/AAAAAAAABJo/u--062d3qjM/s320/20160306_171747.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Three young guys worked at the hotel doing maintenance, cooking, cleaning, organizing, basically anything you can think of, they did it. These 3 guys are some of the nicest people I have met. The youngest guy is 19 and his family own the hotel and the local store beside it. The other two guys are both 29, but look 16, and have been working here for about 5 months each. <br />
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The one guy, who I call Smiley, was the funniest guy. Every time I saw him, he would have the biggest, whitest smile and say HI! and wave. Even if I just saw him 2 minutes ago. Unfortunately I do not have a picture of him.<br />
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The other worker was just as nice, and a little more quiet. However, he loved to ask questions about Australia, and Canada. He told me he has no wife or kids, and really enjoys working here. All 3 guys get 4 consecutive days off a month to be with family, the rest of the time they work from 7 am until 8 pm everyday. His family lives in Lombok, about a 1 hour boat ride away.<br />
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The 19 year owner was a very hospitable guy. He ensured everything was perfect for your stay, including carrying my bags to the boat on the last day. On the last evening he asked me if he could take me for a tour around the Island, and he would show me the good and the bad of Gili Meno.<br />
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Well this is where our story takes a little bit of a turn. <br />
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We start off with a walk around the pond, where his family owns some property. He shows me the land and tells me it is for sale, for about $10,000 CAD, and he tells me all details about how to buy land here and how much it cost to build. The bungalow I live in, cost about $8,000 CAD to build on the mainland, and then shipped to here. Not a bad price for us, but damn expensive for them considering I am paying $15 per night, with breakfast.<br />
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Our walk continues around to the south side of the Island where he starts to tell me about the bombing in Bali in 2005, which killed the tourist industry on the Islands for 4 years. A lot of owners went bankrupt a lost everything. He then takes me into an area of the Island no one goes and shows me exactly what he met.<br />
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Below are some pictures of the abandon resorts.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m41INzc74NE/Vt-eKy0yz9I/AAAAAAAABJ8/kTMjWce4qQ8/s1600/20160306_171906.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m41INzc74NE/Vt-eKy0yz9I/AAAAAAAABJ8/kTMjWce4qQ8/s320/20160306_171906.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h2AOGX8-7fQ/Vt-eDuwpb5I/AAAAAAAABJ0/ki_nhNlhZSc/s1600/20160306_174622.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h2AOGX8-7fQ/Vt-eDuwpb5I/AAAAAAAABJ0/ki_nhNlhZSc/s320/20160306_174622.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S_m9GTQEc0M/Vt-eLNEOQ9I/AAAAAAAABKE/iKxHxVSJ4oc/s1600/20160306_174606.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S_m9GTQEc0M/Vt-eLNEOQ9I/AAAAAAAABKE/iKxHxVSJ4oc/s320/20160306_174606.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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To get a better idea, watch my video by <a href="https://youtu.be/azXwmPUzeqA" target="_blank">clicking here!</a><br />
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If I saw this as a tourist, I would just think someone ran out of money, etc. However, I got the real story about the bombing, and all that followed after. It is good, to see the last few years the tourism is picking back up, but this brings other issues.<br />
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The next big thing we talk about was the trash on the Islands, which I also saw in Bali.<br />
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When more people come to these small islands, we bring money, and jobs, which is great. There is another side to this though. We also bring more <b>trash</b>. The people and government in my opinion don't know how to handle it. The locals only charge us enough extra on each item we buy to pay for the item plus shipping plus living cost. There isn't capital set aside to pay for removing the items from the island. So what happens! Well, all of the garbage is just tossed on the side of the road, or behind the huts or into the water, hoping it will float away, but it doesn't.<br />
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One of the biggest culprits is water bottles. I do not understand why we promote these so much. Like even on TV, when I watch a show, I always see the person going to the fridge and grabbing a water bottle. Why in a developed country are we promoting such waste. Turn on a tap, and drink the fucking water, it is CLEAN! and if you don't like the taste, get a water tank.<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B7CDtiw3e5c/Vt-5ZYkR2LI/AAAAAAAABKY/mZdK-mWvXUs/s1600/20160303_131232%2B-%2BCopy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B7CDtiw3e5c/Vt-5ZYkR2LI/AAAAAAAABKY/mZdK-mWvXUs/s320/20160303_131232%2B-%2BCopy.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
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I asked why there is a stack of water bottles behind our bungalows and he gave me a straight answer. "<i>We have no where to put them and we have so many of them.</i>" <br />
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We need to ban all water bottles, and start forcing people to use reusable bottles. What is earth going to look like in another 50 years when it looks like this now!<br />
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After seeing this side of the Islands, I am changing how I think and hope to help others change as well.<br />
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The walk around the entire Island didn't take long and I loved the conversations I had with the two locals. They really helped put somethings into perspective for me.<br />
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Until we meet again, thanks Gili Islands for some amazing experiences, from swimming with turtles, to meeting locals, I had a blast and will never forget my time here.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PoT6NI7dKiM/Vt-73mPFuEI/AAAAAAAABKk/QNnJboBZ5zc/s1600/20160306_175948.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PoT6NI7dKiM/Vt-73mPFuEI/AAAAAAAABKk/QNnJboBZ5zc/s320/20160306_175948.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4hCadHcRsPA/Vt-8B4JIslI/AAAAAAAABKs/Ih8JwJHMtX8/s1600/20160306_170018.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4hCadHcRsPA/Vt-8B4JIslI/AAAAAAAABKs/Ih8JwJHMtX8/s320/20160306_170018.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Gili Meno, Gili Indah, Pemenang, North Lombok Regency, Indonesia-8.350556 116.05472199999997-38.958752 74.74612799999997 22.257640000000002 157.36331599999997tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-20389333635981838082016-02-29T06:53:00.000-05:002016-03-05T07:56:55.604-05:00Gili Trawangan to Gili Meno - Snorkeling and Great FoodMy time in Gili Trawangan was pretty good. I didn't meet any new tourist, but I did meet a few new locals and really enjoyed their conversations. Some of what was mentioned in my previous posting. So I am going to keep the part about my time on Gili T short and just mention a few highlights.<br />
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There is a Night Food Market which starts around 7 pm. I stumbled upon it just by fluke. The one night I was out for a walk debating if I want to have a few pints or not, when I smelt this amazing flavors in the air. I turn to see a few locals cooking food on the side street, so I walk in to take a look. The one group of young guys tell me I can choose any five items for 20,000 IDR (A toonie). For this price, even though I just ate an hour ago, I choose 5 items. All I can say, if you are ever in Gili Trawanga, go here. No matter what! The food was amazing and I wish I had a picture of it.<br />
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Another place I want to mention also opens late in the evening, is the street cookers. They are commonly just a lady sitting on a step using a fan, and ashes, to cook different things. I saw one and really wanted to try it. She was cooking Chicken and Beef skewers with peanut sauces and again, this was for 20,000 IDR. Take a look below, some of the best skewers I have ever had. Mmmm so tasty!<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Db07-sB5zP4/VtrNVBNZwJI/AAAAAAAABIM/NrMcZI5MZNk/s1600/20160227_174036.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Db07-sB5zP4/VtrNVBNZwJI/AAAAAAAABIM/NrMcZI5MZNk/s320/20160227_174036.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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If you like Mojitos, this is a great place to get them. They use actual freshly grown peppermint leaves ground into the drink. Again, so refreshing on a hot day!<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BNRyn6YIftg/VtrOHFLZT3I/AAAAAAAABIg/u7OJXMDQLCw/s1600/20160227_182905.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BNRyn6YIftg/VtrOHFLZT3I/AAAAAAAABIg/u7OJXMDQLCw/s320/20160227_182905.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Fresh sweet corn, do I need to say more?<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p18gwNlMUS4/VtrOEyAYydI/AAAAAAAABIY/XJdIJovG680/s1600/20160227_175307.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p18gwNlMUS4/VtrOEyAYydI/AAAAAAAABIY/XJdIJovG680/s320/20160227_175307.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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I almost forgot to mention the fresh coconut, with only a straw added when drinking it. This was pretty awesome as well and recommend try it in any tropical country.<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3_3RqL7VQNA/VtrOb7XpmEI/AAAAAAAABIo/ZWD0ELMk1mk/s1600/20160227_124148.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3_3RqL7VQNA/VtrOb7XpmEI/AAAAAAAABIo/ZWD0ELMk1mk/s320/20160227_124148.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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I didn't do as much as I should have in Gili T, but I had felt it was a bit too busy for me, so I asked around and found out the Gili Meno is the least touristy Island of the 3. From left to right, is Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air.<br />
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<a href="http://visa4bali.com/sites/default/files/gili-islands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://visa4bali.com/sites/default/files/gili-islands.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
On all of the Islands, there are a tone of tourist information kiosk, where you can ask and book trips around the area. One of which is almost across from my homestay. The guy is pushy when I ask for prices, but he ends of giving a really good option. I want to go to Gili Meno, and also snorkeling. He offers to take me snorkeling and then drop me off on Gili Meno on the way back, all for 100,000 IDR ($10 CAD). I book it for the next day.<br />
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The next morning I say goodbye to my new friends at the homestay. The young girl seems sad I am leaving and asks me to come back before I leave the area. I have to say, this is one of the very few times I almost felt sad saying goodbye to someone. Almost!<br />
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The guy I booked the trip with is not there, but the tour guides are and know exactly who I am. The group of people going has to be about 40 people and I get special privileges because of my gear. The snorkeling guide helps carry on my bags and hides them upfront under cover in case of rain. Which, we get nailed with for an hour partway through the tour.<br />
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While cruising to our first stop, the guy beside me sees my carry bag, which is from Pak N Save New Zealand and asks if I am a Kiwi. I tell him, nope Canadian but I backpacked through NZ for 3 months. He and his girlfriend are from Singapore. We have some great conversations during the day. Would have been cool to go back to Gili T, so we could party one night. <br />
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Halfway through the day we stop at Gili Air for lunch. One thing I forgot to mention is you always take off your shoes when going into most stores or restaurants. Anyways, when I was in Australia I bought discount flip flops that say, Australia on them. So when I entered the restaurant, I take off my Aussie Thongs, as Aussies call them, and someone behind me says, "Hey Mate!" I know the accent and say hi. The guy asks where in Aussie I am from and I say, no, Canada, but I bought the Thongs in Australia a month ago. This starts off some great conversations about Australia. He was from Melbourne and was jealous I drove across his country to Perth, as he has never done it. I don't recall his name either, but he was a pretty cool guy.<br />
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After lunch we go to one more location for snorkeling, and then they drop me off at Gili Meno. Just before I jump off the front of the boat, I yell out, "Bye All!" and about half the boat responded with either a wave, or a goodbye. Lol! If you ever get a chance to do this, do it. It is funny!<br />
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Here are two pictures of the snorkeling, but if you want to see more, watch my video by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kymmld971Zk" target="_blank">Clicking here!</a><br />
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Turtle and Fishy!<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BYPwP8tlpdo/VtrUDzF03jI/AAAAAAAABI8/V_aUi6Evl4w/s1600/2016_0229_191946_005.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BYPwP8tlpdo/VtrUDzF03jI/AAAAAAAABI8/V_aUi6Evl4w/s320/2016_0229_191946_005.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R64-nJUhqGM/VtrUD1wzdmI/AAAAAAAABJE/NHoSGnE6vnM/s1600/2016_0229_165349_002.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R64-nJUhqGM/VtrUD1wzdmI/AAAAAAAABJE/NHoSGnE6vnM/s320/2016_0229_165349_002.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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I am now on Gili Meno!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Gili Meno, Gili Indah, Pemenang, North Lombok Regency, Indonesia-8.350556 116.05472199999997-33.8725905 74.74612799999997 17.1714785 157.36331599999997tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-18632801948539121872016-02-27T19:55:00.000-05:002016-03-02T21:30:58.096-05:00Indonesia - Found my way again!My last few post have been lacking and just about where I have been, and done, that sort of thing. But the last couple of days, I have had some interesting experiences and realized I want to get back to writing about what I have learned and noticed. So, this post is going to be about the quality of life, verses work aspects.<br />
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Living my life in a spoiled country like Canada, and having another spoiled country directly below us, I, at times forget what other have to go through in life just to eat. Traveling through New Zealand, and Australia and now Indonesia, I saw two extremes on how people live and think. I know this is going to be generalizing but see past that, and just think about your life in comparison when reading.<br />
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I am going to focus more on Australia, than New Zealand, because I feel it is more the extreme.<br />
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I found the attitude towards working the exact opposite in Australia than it is in North America. I mean, we all hate working, but Aussies generally see you work to live. Where in North America, we live to work. I don't know if it is the government, or why, but that is how the countries differ.<br />
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Aussies get 20 days vacation a year to start at any job, and a lot of professional jobs get 25 days. Where in North America, 10 days is the starting point. They also on average work 37 hours a week, where we work 40 hours a week, in a full time position. If you work in the private sector with a salary paid position, 40 hours is a dream. I don't recall ever working less then 45 in any job I have had, other than when I had a government job.<br />
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Because Aussies work less hours, they get paid more per hour to make the yearly salary end up being the same. Their minimum wage is $20 per hour, ours in around $10 per hour. Yes, some things are more expensive down under, however, lots of things are cheaper.<br />
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Almost every person I met and spoke to about work life in Australia talked about the number of hours they work and what they do for living. Each person came out to the same conclusion. They work hard, but less hours, and definitely think that work is there just so you can live. I also spoke to people who manage companies they also hire this way. They have no problem paying higher per hour, so the person can have more time off. The general feel I got, was a person works harder when they are not overworked.<br />
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In North America this is rarely the case. I know that some companies are this way, but in general not so much. Having been a professional for 15 years, I can tell you that getting 15 days vacation a year is not easy in North America and we try to get as much out of a person as we can, not caring about their personal life.<br />
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From the number counties I have visited in my life, Australia is one the best places to live and work. I do want to mention, not every Aussie thinks this way. I met my fair share of spoiled brats in Aussie that thought 4 weeks off a year, with 37 hours a week was too much. <br />
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Now I want to talk about the other end of the spectrum. Countries where people work everyday, all day, just to break even.<br />
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I have been to several third world counties, including Mexico, Dominican Republic, Haiti, and more recently Indonesia.<br />
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Here I am going to talk more about the examples, because I have not lived it, so I can't explain from my experiences. <br />
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The homestay rented in Indonesia, there was a 18 year old native working at the reception. She was a super sweet girl and loved to talk. She told me all about her life, family and living situation. So, here is her story.<br />
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She currently works at the homestay doing check-ins, and checkouts, including all cleaning and prepping of the rooms, and this homestay included a free breakfast. She also was the cook/room server. She gets 2 days off per month, not week, which is normal, but she told me her last job got 4 days per month off. She thought that was amazing.<br />
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How long is her work day? Well, there is no set work day. She sleeps in single bed, in a shared room with the other person she works with, which is also the kitchen / living room. The front door is the reception area. To answer the question, she works all day and is always on call. I wonder if that is more than 40 hours per week!<br />
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The people who own this homestay own another, and her brother works there, but also works at this location when she is not working, or is sick. She does the same for him, but organizes it with the other guy who works in this location.<br />
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I asked her if this was normal to work this style of living and she said yes and explain to me how her other family members work. She also explained to me because she is only 18, she doesn't need all of her money, so any extra she has at the end of the month, she sends to her sisters who can't find work, or didn't make enough.<br />
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I can't picture that happening in any developed county I have been in. However, in these counties I see it a lot.<br />
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The hours and little time off she gets I know is normal for anyone working in these countries. I have met and spoken to tones of people since the first time I went to a third world country back in 1999. Oh hell, that shows I am OLD!<br />
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The bungalows I am currently staying at has 3 people working here. One guy does the websites, bookings, and speaks English the best. He is always sitting at the front desk asking you if you need anything, and if you are having a good day. He told me, he and the other 3 guys get 3 days off a month. When one has a day off, the other 2 take over his duties.<br />
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They all work from sun up, to sun down, or later depending on if guest are still wondering around.<br />
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All 3 guys live here in the same type of living style as the girl I mentioned above, with one difference. They have a separate room for sleeping in, but then the one guy has a wife, and 2 kids, who also sleep in that room.<br />
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Let me tell you, these 3 guys work hard as hell. Last night we lost power around 11 pm, for a short bit. When the power came back on, the one guy went to each bungalow and listen outside to see if the AC came back on. If it didn't he would knock on the door and say, "<i>Sorry sir for waking you, we lost power and your AC didn't turn back on. Can I come in and turn it on for you? No need to get up, I will do it quickly and quietly.</i>" Some people might think that is annoying, but trust me when I say, this is a very good service. It only cooled down to 29 last night with 100% humidity. You want that AC on.<br />
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I have to tell this other story that I am not sure if it fits in here or not, but is worth telling. <br />
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There was a older couple from Europe, but not sure exactly sure where. In the morning, we were all sitting in the outside dinning area when the lady asked if they could extend their stay here. The guy replied, "I am sorry, but we are fully booked." The lady responded in an aggressive manner, "But we have no place to go, why can't we stay!". He explained again, someone else has booked their room and all rooms are booked already. There is nothing he can do. She continues to speak in an aggressive manner, thinking that they should cancel someone else booking for them. She then tries the sympathy card and tells them the last place they booked for one night and then wanted to extend and the same thing happened. <br />
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In my mind, I can't believe how pompous and stupid this couple is, and I was starting to think I wanted to jump into the conversation and explain to them, how ridiculous they are being. Maybe someone needed to explain how bookings work?<br />
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Anyways, the 1 of the 3 guys went out of their way and walked to several other bungalows and found them another place very to stay, and they even bargained a better price for them. The also carried the couple luggage to the new place, without asking for tips. <br />
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<i>Please don't be like these people! Sometimes it is your own fault and don't blame others! On the other hand, be like these 3 guys. Pay it forward, and help someone else without expecting something in return!</i><br />
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All this service for $15 dollars a night. How much do you think these guys actually make?<br />
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The point I am trying to make is, think about how you live, how good or not good you have it, and then think about others. There is always someone who has it better and someone who has it worse. So, try not to be to negative and just live life in the most fulfilling way you can.<br />
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Work hard, but not so hard that you forget life is worth living. If you feel you are not spending enough time with family or friends or away from work. Make the change! <br />
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I don't believe in religion, but I do believe you <u>ONLY</u> live once. Enjoy it!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QQBHEGjmHCg/VtehzFIbG0I/AAAAAAAABH8/ekTABqGnX3k/s1600/20160227_172049.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QQBHEGjmHCg/VtehzFIbG0I/AAAAAAAABH8/ekTABqGnX3k/s320/20160227_172049.jpg" width="320" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Gili Meno, Gili Indah, Pemenang, North Lombok Regency, Indonesia-8.350556 116.05472199999997-38.9841405 74.74612799999997 22.2830285 157.36331599999997tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-74619715969441907282016-02-26T09:23:00.000-05:002016-03-01T09:24:50.468-05:00Kuta to Gili Islands - Fast boats, and chatty localsKuta is not really a place I would want to spend more than a day in, if I ever return to Indonesia and that one day would only be to say hi to Sim and my new friends. <br />
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With all the tips I got from people, my best guess is to head over to the Gili Islands where I would be happier, swimming and snorkeling.<br />
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I was able to find a booking online for a pickup from my hotel, to the fast boats, which will take me directly to Gili Trawangan, also known as Gili T. I was skeptical at first with the booking, as I was not sure if they would actually come to my hotel and if they would try and charge more. However, I took my chances and booked it.<br />
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A few minutes later I got a phone call confirming my hotel address. Seems legit.<br />
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The next day my taxi arrived as scheduled, and 20 minutes later I am at the fast boat harbor, with no extra charges requested. So if anyone is wondering where I booked it, the link is below.<br />
<a href="http://www.gilibookings.com/" target="_blank">http://www.gilibookings.com/</a><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DyGd2Pq1ctw/VtWg4LGu8fI/AAAAAAAABHE/ALzDX-p37zs/s1600/20160227_111151.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DyGd2Pq1ctw/VtWg4LGu8fI/AAAAAAAABHE/ALzDX-p37zs/s320/20160227_111151.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pQqn-wip1l8/VtWgw5eOVHI/AAAAAAAABG8/jFjcxbTXBCc/s1600/20160227_110726.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pQqn-wip1l8/VtWgw5eOVHI/AAAAAAAABG8/jFjcxbTXBCc/s320/20160227_110726.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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The boat ride itself was really enjoyable. They gave us ice cold water, cold towels, and candy. We also slowed down to look at some dolphins that were jumping near the boat. I actually think I have seen enough dolphins to last a lifetime now, but I still love them.<br />
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Gili T is nice from what I saw on my walk to my hotel. Lots of tourist though, and I am already wondering if it is too busy for me. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r8xEj02oOD4/VtWjFVeCc_I/AAAAAAAABHg/y4DJu2tmUew/s1600/20160228_112945.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r8xEj02oOD4/VtWjFVeCc_I/AAAAAAAABHg/y4DJu2tmUew/s320/20160228_112945.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Checking into my hotel was a whole new story. When I arrive a very young receptionist showed me to my room. I didn't even get my bags off my back and she was chatting up a storm. I wasn't sure why she was so comfortable with me, or maybe it was because she was bored and I was there? She ended up talking to me for about 30 minutes at my doorway. It was so hot and I desperately needed a cold shower. I think it had been more than a day since my last one. <br />
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She eventually paused for a second and I took my chance and told her I will be back in short bit, but I needed a shower. She smiled and said, "We talk tonight!" <br />
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Below is a picture of my new friend while she was pointing to something.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4Dbi_nGGFMI/VtWiOfEmlMI/AAAAAAAABHU/_Y5v8T7rGZY/s1600/20160229_082905.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4Dbi_nGGFMI/VtWiOfEmlMI/AAAAAAAABHU/_Y5v8T7rGZY/s320/20160229_082905.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
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Don't forget to take a look at my room on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxsRb7sIDOg" target="_blank">YouTube by clicking here</a>!<br />
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After my shower, I decided to take a walk around the main strip to see what was there. I read online when going out to eat, to look at the menus and see if they charge extra tax or not. If they do, avoid them as the other places are cheaper.<br />
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I found a nice place near the water and ate a late lunch. If I remember my meal came out to $5 dollars and was pretty tasty. Mmmm fresh coconut and squad!<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SmMllG2ERyE/VtWls6Z_GVI/AAAAAAAABHs/zVh2pN8Znds/s1600/20160227_124148.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SmMllG2ERyE/VtWls6Z_GVI/AAAAAAAABHs/zVh2pN8Znds/s320/20160227_124148.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Now that I am happily full, I did some more walking around the Island and eventually went back to my room.<br />
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The rest of the day was spent sitting beside the fan in the room, or chatting with my new Indonesian friend.<br />
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Another amazing and odd day done!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Gili Trawangan, Indonesia-8.348291699999999 116.0384335-8.3797121999999984 115.998093 -8.3168712 116.078774tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1333675421124500792.post-85886133080962958962016-02-25T06:42:00.000-05:002016-02-28T06:42:32.975-05:00Kuta, Bali, Indonesia - Day 2 with great new friendsMy second day in Kuta, I tried to extended my room for another night, but it was already booked, so I just packed my stuff and walked over to The Naughty Duck to see Sim.<br />
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Sim wasn't there yet, but Dinny was and I was starving. I ordered up a breakfast sandwich and espresso. I am probably spelling his name wrong, but Dinny makes one hell of a meal and all for about $5 dollars.<br />
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While scarfing down this amazing breakfast, I googled around and found another room for the same price with AC. <br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vBKgNX6LsGE" target="_blank">Click here to see the room!</a><br />
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Sim shows up and we talk for a bit. I tell him I am switching rooms and will be back later for his going away get together. I don't think I mentioned this yesterday, but Sim is going back to Aussie for a month to do some extra work. The Naughty Duck hasn't been open long and it is currently the slow season in Bali. I am sure in another month when Bali picks up, he will be rocking with business.<br />
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Anyways, I head over to my new room to check in, when I realized the map position on hotels.com is not the same as the google location. Hotels.com isn't correct and the walk will be over an hour in this heat. Not going to happen when carting round two packs. <br />
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A taxi passes and asks if I need a ride. Hmmm Obvious I am dyeing? lol.<br />
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He offers to take me for 50,000 IDR ($5 dollars) for a ride, when yesterday it cost me double. For sure, and I jump in.<br />
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15 minutes later am I am checking into my new room. It isn't that bad. Has slow internet and a nice bed. No sink, but I am only hear for 2 nights.<br />
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That day I spent just relaxing for the most part, but I also took a walk to the beach to do some snorkeling, however, the tied has a major rip-current and there are flags warning not to swim. This sucks a bit, but that's OK.<br />
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The beach itself is gross. Garbage everywhere, and I can tell most of it is from lazy ass tourist, dropping plastic cups, etc on the ground.<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9yv4kL0Vumc/VtLZchEyTYI/AAAAAAAABGs/K7rgX6yTUaA/s1600/2016_0225_174526_002.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9yv4kL0Vumc/VtLZchEyTYI/AAAAAAAABGs/K7rgX6yTUaA/s320/2016_0225_174526_002.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-obMHpzeCc7A/VtLZctYPoII/AAAAAAAABGk/loXiYeAezrU/s1600/2016_0225_174522_001.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-obMHpzeCc7A/VtLZctYPoII/AAAAAAAABGk/loXiYeAezrU/s320/2016_0225_174522_001.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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That night I head over to Sim's for his going away party. Again I meet several new people from all over the world and some cool locals. Sim's girlfriend is also a hoot, a truly nice and funny native Indonesian girl.<br />
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That night again the beer was flowing nicely but I stopped after 5. I am a good boy :)<br />
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I spend most of my time chatting with a 63 year old Aussie surfer guy, who also owns a shop in Kuta. He is a pretty cool guy and tells me several places in Bali that I might enjoy. I will miss chatting with him.<br />
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I can't remember what time it was, but eventually I got sleepy and said thanks to Sim and goodbye to all of my new friends.<br />
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I took a taxi home as I knew I wasn't going to walk it and I got some fun questions. The first one was if I was traveling alone, then it slowly proceeded into. Do you want girl for the night, or hour. I have many great girls. <br />
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With my curiosity, I said, "I don't know, but how much?" He responded with $100 per hour. Which I know means $100 USA. <br />
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I must say, first of all, I don't want some disease infested hooker, and I am to cheap to send $100 when I could just go to the bar and spend $20 on drinks and get a drunk tourist girl. Would be just as bad sex, and the smell of a drunken tourist girl would match that of a cheap hooker. lol. So I replied with, "I am broke!" He took the hint.<br />
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Day two in Kuta is completed :) and I enjoyed meeting so many amazing people, even funny taxi drivers.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09728216145928871527noreply@blogger.com0Kuta, Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia-8.7237964 115.17522770000005-8.8493554 115.01386620000005 -8.5982373999999986 115.33658920000005