tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61478076492660758372024-03-05T20:42:40.555-05:00A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWA HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.comBlogger136125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-68074544498126228352012-01-08T09:00:00.001-05:002012-01-08T22:55:13.082-05:00MEXI COLOR THEORY: CASA HYDER<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifkq_S_W449_DPMhZ_K-2oVSYrL41HEjVUBlcChaKFSFBPhJrtT8WIRHNJ25eJOgghQqjA_JQZ3Acnl0MXJTbYz9k6bE4A7WntAaIjwbeYDzVMMK4syWX0X319TRXuXLZBoGBkglAe7hM/s1600/IMG_2004.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifkq_S_W449_DPMhZ_K-2oVSYrL41HEjVUBlcChaKFSFBPhJrtT8WIRHNJ25eJOgghQqjA_JQZ3Acnl0MXJTbYz9k6bE4A7WntAaIjwbeYDzVMMK4syWX0X319TRXuXLZBoGBkglAe7hM/s400/IMG_2004.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695389673170356450" /></a><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifkq_S_W449_DPMhZ_K-2oVSYrL41HEjVUBlcChaKFSFBPhJrtT8WIRHNJ25eJOgghQqjA_JQZ3Acnl0MXJTbYz9k6bE4A7WntAaIjwbeYDzVMMK4syWX0X319TRXuXLZBoGBkglAe7hM/s1600/IMG_2004.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>While in San Miguel, we stayed with several friends at one of the most spectacular homes I have ever slept in: Casa Hyder. Over a period of three decades, the house was painstakingly built and decorated by the Hyder family from Ft. Worth, Texas. The bright colors, variety of textures and patterns from around the world, and huge number of Spanish, Italian and Mexican artifacts is impressive.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRDCavP6neYkNhWuOeq51iC7aA_40W_zLt5x9jxDSM0Xpo6q5dazRo7Cq1X5YOWxLhSWy9LBCuEJ-C9k8O8qsLMzIbwsnOkLJB-6PvmEtCtnPEVDm6h9sniCg9gPsZ_DU00tMPWrBm1sA/s1600/IMG_1962.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRDCavP6neYkNhWuOeq51iC7aA_40W_zLt5x9jxDSM0Xpo6q5dazRo7Cq1X5YOWxLhSWy9LBCuEJ-C9k8O8qsLMzIbwsnOkLJB-6PvmEtCtnPEVDm6h9sniCg9gPsZ_DU00tMPWrBm1sA/s400/IMG_1962.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695384663362146802" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB0gKA0RgzL0HLOql5EW43fgehtNJi5SvtisW8igIla8T0sW05rC6PkFRypdffaIcK_zm1O2bIeIZudGp3BYiWnN02uDbHjFKH3gnp5uY7ag-cCFhfwlxdDWkpfSmkQdM8bCjWNv3li18/s1600/IMG_1752.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB0gKA0RgzL0HLOql5EW43fgehtNJi5SvtisW8igIla8T0sW05rC6PkFRypdffaIcK_zm1O2bIeIZudGp3BYiWnN02uDbHjFKH3gnp5uY7ag-cCFhfwlxdDWkpfSmkQdM8bCjWNv3li18/s400/IMG_1752.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695383258686395810" /></a><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB0gKA0RgzL0HLOql5EW43fgehtNJi5SvtisW8igIla8T0sW05rC6PkFRypdffaIcK_zm1O2bIeIZudGp3BYiWnN02uDbHjFKH3gnp5uY7ag-cCFhfwlxdDWkpfSmkQdM8bCjWNv3li18/s1600/IMG_1752.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB0gKA0RgzL0HLOql5EW43fgehtNJi5SvtisW8igIla8T0sW05rC6PkFRypdffaIcK_zm1O2bIeIZudGp3BYiWnN02uDbHjFKH3gnp5uY7ag-cCFhfwlxdDWkpfSmkQdM8bCjWNv3li18/s1600/IMG_1752.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB0gKA0RgzL0HLOql5EW43fgehtNJi5SvtisW8igIla8T0sW05rC6PkFRypdffaIcK_zm1O2bIeIZudGp3BYiWnN02uDbHjFKH3gnp5uY7ag-cCFhfwlxdDWkpfSmkQdM8bCjWNv3li18/s1600/IMG_1752.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik92VQXIIHfNO2a1BtjHZkHp8KG0m3ai2krv8ush-QgPc06V4VglyT_qdgag3onH72AegNDYZpaEIoYZ_JRIJu-kgYg-BvGTIPMJuEzna0r3BxYdgPmlbeCcWVuWh4sK0StEVK-NlijT4/s400/IMG_1984.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695385306417592962" /><div>The facade of the house from the street.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB0gKA0RgzL0HLOql5EW43fgehtNJi5SvtisW8igIla8T0sW05rC6PkFRypdffaIcK_zm1O2bIeIZudGp3BYiWnN02uDbHjFKH3gnp5uY7ag-cCFhfwlxdDWkpfSmkQdM8bCjWNv3li18/s1600/IMG_1752.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj74O0vKd0DvafRr0cEIEatMZ_UZHf0zLW3-2Jv7hvxvgUheDBLbWrHcWe3WEYlHxn5iKkbrgcdHsenIqWQ8gFvT3oWWjtbBGld3TlSaM7jWuFD9AbGW4fO6hid7hfd5RA6ZoxTuZH2_lw/s1600/IMG_1759.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj74O0vKd0DvafRr0cEIEatMZ_UZHf0zLW3-2Jv7hvxvgUheDBLbWrHcWe3WEYlHxn5iKkbrgcdHsenIqWQ8gFvT3oWWjtbBGld3TlSaM7jWuFD9AbGW4fO6hid7hfd5RA6ZoxTuZH2_lw/s400/IMG_1759.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695383102303077954" /></a></div><div>One of many outdoor seating areas.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj74O0vKd0DvafRr0cEIEatMZ_UZHf0zLW3-2Jv7hvxvgUheDBLbWrHcWe3WEYlHxn5iKkbrgcdHsenIqWQ8gFvT3oWWjtbBGld3TlSaM7jWuFD9AbGW4fO6hid7hfd5RA6ZoxTuZH2_lw/s1600/IMG_1759.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZxmXSnJbN4D8a5hvklikWQwmXhDYz5K6cPptsYgtxw6H6ng2fkOppYo-VZ2uj25C9QNwdetSdboXh7yYy_JWPLlAy_NRJzxTf-QzDbrj1heGttc8qa_cqcrHTrb8EqNhvJPPvNC45r_4/s1600/IMG_1762.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZxmXSnJbN4D8a5hvklikWQwmXhDYz5K6cPptsYgtxw6H6ng2fkOppYo-VZ2uj25C9QNwdetSdboXh7yYy_JWPLlAy_NRJzxTf-QzDbrj1heGttc8qa_cqcrHTrb8EqNhvJPPvNC45r_4/s400/IMG_1762.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695382889594020898" /></a></div><div>The dining room.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZxmXSnJbN4D8a5hvklikWQwmXhDYz5K6cPptsYgtxw6H6ng2fkOppYo-VZ2uj25C9QNwdetSdboXh7yYy_JWPLlAy_NRJzxTf-QzDbrj1heGttc8qa_cqcrHTrb8EqNhvJPPvNC45r_4/s1600/IMG_1762.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWJfmixr-2OF-mY5IQTzwMp7OPKg7h1-ZDdxA9UVTTe4razfWUq3pdJkSYwUyS7JPnBuHuwq_R9iJb93kS9mgkR46HYFtrDGOyjxcGJ-kdgkEFaAGXInFsvxiaGMfMoVoslPM-cYednqU/s1600/IMG_1763.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWJfmixr-2OF-mY5IQTzwMp7OPKg7h1-ZDdxA9UVTTe4razfWUq3pdJkSYwUyS7JPnBuHuwq_R9iJb93kS9mgkR46HYFtrDGOyjxcGJ-kdgkEFaAGXInFsvxiaGMfMoVoslPM-cYednqU/s400/IMG_1763.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695382794037973042" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWJfmixr-2OF-mY5IQTzwMp7OPKg7h1-ZDdxA9UVTTe4razfWUq3pdJkSYwUyS7JPnBuHuwq_R9iJb93kS9mgkR46HYFtrDGOyjxcGJ-kdgkEFaAGXInFsvxiaGMfMoVoslPM-cYednqU/s1600/IMG_1763.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Qp3JlTKqS0-TXxwA5LwIyZb_F3L2hhyphenhyphenlS7e1kvbevHMiC_6YERfP2xCYEpnbQGb-fpddpLQK0az7_Q8XFIcdU5H4o51_PmmbByjWw9jUVVI-NeOuVAmYo1k4BlJeQUb9jnDuu301aMQ/s1600/IMG_1767.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Qp3JlTKqS0-TXxwA5LwIyZb_F3L2hhyphenhyphenlS7e1kvbevHMiC_6YERfP2xCYEpnbQGb-fpddpLQK0az7_Q8XFIcdU5H4o51_PmmbByjWw9jUVVI-NeOuVAmYo1k4BlJeQUb9jnDuu301aMQ/s400/IMG_1767.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695382660643194146" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Qp3JlTKqS0-TXxwA5LwIyZb_F3L2hhyphenhyphenlS7e1kvbevHMiC_6YERfP2xCYEpnbQGb-fpddpLQK0az7_Q8XFIcdU5H4o51_PmmbByjWw9jUVVI-NeOuVAmYo1k4BlJeQUb9jnDuu301aMQ/s1600/IMG_1767.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1bs-OcBLbwQxRVIUoiVEBn-ArhcBwdy8iYEkPi-m3-EDAwoaZjjKDzL7-oMs9rwUtQLvqbcENx-lIogRB81ZwG5l0CPsi5DQUWJd77R78jVniWLX3nE2eZk-yRfH336DCEVcTU-HU_qc/s1600/IMG_1768.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1bs-OcBLbwQxRVIUoiVEBn-ArhcBwdy8iYEkPi-m3-EDAwoaZjjKDzL7-oMs9rwUtQLvqbcENx-lIogRB81ZwG5l0CPsi5DQUWJd77R78jVniWLX3nE2eZk-yRfH336DCEVcTU-HU_qc/s400/IMG_1768.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695382387619698114" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1bs-OcBLbwQxRVIUoiVEBn-ArhcBwdy8iYEkPi-m3-EDAwoaZjjKDzL7-oMs9rwUtQLvqbcENx-lIogRB81ZwG5l0CPsi5DQUWJd77R78jVniWLX3nE2eZk-yRfH336DCEVcTU-HU_qc/s1600/IMG_1768.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESlXR5SfNCUzwgkvYfmSip5DGTMzYcAbu9MO1SXHbQXKnL-cvfuniKd6j8VEUu5WCExIM6i6N_MiuIapEx_f6HFVxxS0O9ZtJ_p1dR9dr6uV1djsUjL4nzbbXrhs0Ebv_zdAts88UuwE/s1600/IMG_1866.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESlXR5SfNCUzwgkvYfmSip5DGTMzYcAbu9MO1SXHbQXKnL-cvfuniKd6j8VEUu5WCExIM6i6N_MiuIapEx_f6HFVxxS0O9ZtJ_p1dR9dr6uV1djsUjL4nzbbXrhs0Ebv_zdAts88UuwE/s400/IMG_1866.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695380432473587138" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESlXR5SfNCUzwgkvYfmSip5DGTMzYcAbu9MO1SXHbQXKnL-cvfuniKd6j8VEUu5WCExIM6i6N_MiuIapEx_f6HFVxxS0O9ZtJ_p1dR9dr6uV1djsUjL4nzbbXrhs0Ebv_zdAts88UuwE/s1600/IMG_1866.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAhZr1G7QAzYp9AWz2nYW2KyocOgtp_l2D9ZE3GbYYmW8OHcBFdWjsv4bnbuCzMBFoyqcsWvE2xgIIegqi4VPjRHkZjbCDh2yrran99RYK_x8px7EvQ4eLuIE3I4LeXXbsgqSj2Qd8HlU/s1600/IMG_1869.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAhZr1G7QAzYp9AWz2nYW2KyocOgtp_l2D9ZE3GbYYmW8OHcBFdWjsv4bnbuCzMBFoyqcsWvE2xgIIegqi4VPjRHkZjbCDh2yrran99RYK_x8px7EvQ4eLuIE3I4LeXXbsgqSj2Qd8HlU/s400/IMG_1869.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695380331604793698" /></a></div><div>The main living room.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAhZr1G7QAzYp9AWz2nYW2KyocOgtp_l2D9ZE3GbYYmW8OHcBFdWjsv4bnbuCzMBFoyqcsWvE2xgIIegqi4VPjRHkZjbCDh2yrran99RYK_x8px7EvQ4eLuIE3I4LeXXbsgqSj2Qd8HlU/s1600/IMG_1869.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 334px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhANFuV39yo_rBBmujqQLVHjSQkzNO6dFuQAgWm1QgIFHjWsLcG4gGmuHxI0gN_xcKvsZiqFzdUk24QZh_vqoSCyTTQwjkgEpQGoqb-Qzjpf68kqZY-dRk73l1rBauVSBV8zhhA_e1EOC0/s400/IMG_1685.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695383341474029650" /></div><div>Our bedroom.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfpdbZxzhkpsyxSxwhVp1KRntADv0TlWbJFgIF2dwYTmDR1USTNGwqij7cR1IcjESrGGB0HRKalOywWbeQ9QvoyETvSITKT6VoqkYJSjT-ZSRBBxLNwYnnj7aPKlEWzg6EJ686cylwSGc/s1600/IMG_1873.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfpdbZxzhkpsyxSxwhVp1KRntADv0TlWbJFgIF2dwYTmDR1USTNGwqij7cR1IcjESrGGB0HRKalOywWbeQ9QvoyETvSITKT6VoqkYJSjT-ZSRBBxLNwYnnj7aPKlEWzg6EJ686cylwSGc/s400/IMG_1873.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695380219280908626" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfpdbZxzhkpsyxSxwhVp1KRntADv0TlWbJFgIF2dwYTmDR1USTNGwqij7cR1IcjESrGGB0HRKalOywWbeQ9QvoyETvSITKT6VoqkYJSjT-ZSRBBxLNwYnnj7aPKlEWzg6EJ686cylwSGc/s1600/IMG_1873.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5EY_duiHrZSCRR87atwIl1nPNCEVLZ5o144d2HnI0rhLpF076O0NoukVHRW8bqJZ7yv9ZXDZvVHVrhN576z16D1Gr0gYssCXv9iPismGEapw5y_oAFZJueYSHGlPrrduzlivUZWYUic/s1600/IMG_1876.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5EY_duiHrZSCRR87atwIl1nPNCEVLZ5o144d2HnI0rhLpF076O0NoukVHRW8bqJZ7yv9ZXDZvVHVrhN576z16D1Gr0gYssCXv9iPismGEapw5y_oAFZJueYSHGlPrrduzlivUZWYUic/s400/IMG_1876.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695380030330706962" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5EY_duiHrZSCRR87atwIl1nPNCEVLZ5o144d2HnI0rhLpF076O0NoukVHRW8bqJZ7yv9ZXDZvVHVrhN576z16D1Gr0gYssCXv9iPismGEapw5y_oAFZJueYSHGlPrrduzlivUZWYUic/s1600/IMG_1876.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ9XkxzlklXsEmfbyoAeEL7RdfSAKbBkDhma1I-QfFTUkoJRGlwQU-1v6c6JWV9Xo9M5zOVQTNABTXQ3X0F-6CsV2h25w2qkSDUZR-kIJ2IpWx80tTDMj7W5_3Ayh0qxmCowCUr0l-tjM/s400/IMG_1875.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695380131126176802" /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5EY_duiHrZSCRR87atwIl1nPNCEVLZ5o144d2HnI0rhLpF076O0NoukVHRW8bqJZ7yv9ZXDZvVHVrhN576z16D1Gr0gYssCXv9iPismGEapw5y_oAFZJueYSHGlPrrduzlivUZWYUic/s1600/IMG_1876.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsr8WEe85CFAR_N7V6MyXVSHlLWhW9_8SuMtWV_AYIWcmyG70wHlUdcQlqccVWyXI-5D-BL8ncjtRllPLxCv9j8rlDe5k0CWKN0Fj7uCgiCoN-30N9EkrwU_3I0EmpdN23GnckkX8Ho3U/s1600/IMG_1879.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsr8WEe85CFAR_N7V6MyXVSHlLWhW9_8SuMtWV_AYIWcmyG70wHlUdcQlqccVWyXI-5D-BL8ncjtRllPLxCv9j8rlDe5k0CWKN0Fj7uCgiCoN-30N9EkrwU_3I0EmpdN23GnckkX8Ho3U/s400/IMG_1879.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695379867209993202" /></a></div><div>My favorite space was the open air entrance gallery, filled with hunting trophies and Mexican ceramics, and lit with a huge Morrocan lantern.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsr8WEe85CFAR_N7V6MyXVSHlLWhW9_8SuMtWV_AYIWcmyG70wHlUdcQlqccVWyXI-5D-BL8ncjtRllPLxCv9j8rlDe5k0CWKN0Fj7uCgiCoN-30N9EkrwU_3I0EmpdN23GnckkX8Ho3U/s1600/IMG_1879.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikvNeBtI_C2laFxOIJ9g0miMdKw11kigVtpgOXS7r2qSHcJOdHhzBscFrtyTMQHBQWf8FNhodYzWyuHojki55X4m40rMr1rlxMB52EeWybMFp7yDZnVuxoOkt8dp4j0qsuYSXN_XBh1pQ/s1600/IMG_1884.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikvNeBtI_C2laFxOIJ9g0miMdKw11kigVtpgOXS7r2qSHcJOdHhzBscFrtyTMQHBQWf8FNhodYzWyuHojki55X4m40rMr1rlxMB52EeWybMFp7yDZnVuxoOkt8dp4j0qsuYSXN_XBh1pQ/s400/IMG_1884.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695379784812878850" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikvNeBtI_C2laFxOIJ9g0miMdKw11kigVtpgOXS7r2qSHcJOdHhzBscFrtyTMQHBQWf8FNhodYzWyuHojki55X4m40rMr1rlxMB52EeWybMFp7yDZnVuxoOkt8dp4j0qsuYSXN_XBh1pQ/s1600/IMG_1884.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmqTxNBMrtub3xrJj1lhBXFkir1pxzhU_LlP-OOqWlifWh8G1uquNZcClrydsQuSQyFWx2KlkJxBCzReDBzot38rxz0JgbWWs26uGo_aXICbLEpFmJzBeDBZMFYiiBpmuleaF4h_Y5ic4/s1600/IMG_1886.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmqTxNBMrtub3xrJj1lhBXFkir1pxzhU_LlP-OOqWlifWh8G1uquNZcClrydsQuSQyFWx2KlkJxBCzReDBzot38rxz0JgbWWs26uGo_aXICbLEpFmJzBeDBZMFYiiBpmuleaF4h_Y5ic4/s400/IMG_1886.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695379690030278898" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmqTxNBMrtub3xrJj1lhBXFkir1pxzhU_LlP-OOqWlifWh8G1uquNZcClrydsQuSQyFWx2KlkJxBCzReDBzot38rxz0JgbWWs26uGo_aXICbLEpFmJzBeDBZMFYiiBpmuleaF4h_Y5ic4/s1600/IMG_1886.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqs4VSnqluUAWtIONWwSxwNzy6FoB5pCjnWKI1880UBpkTbPqZzt55j-vdeIX2osFuFwJbFK-jaUVJL2bfUvgSzFPOCmxic4HUc2bCU_R5PGCTZzC_wvnX6OH1_Wno8L6weQfSJHYNW_I/s1600/IMG_1955.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqs4VSnqluUAWtIONWwSxwNzy6FoB5pCjnWKI1880UBpkTbPqZzt55j-vdeIX2osFuFwJbFK-jaUVJL2bfUvgSzFPOCmxic4HUc2bCU_R5PGCTZzC_wvnX6OH1_Wno8L6weQfSJHYNW_I/s400/IMG_1955.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695379572657583986" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqs4VSnqluUAWtIONWwSxwNzy6FoB5pCjnWKI1880UBpkTbPqZzt55j-vdeIX2osFuFwJbFK-jaUVJL2bfUvgSzFPOCmxic4HUc2bCU_R5PGCTZzC_wvnX6OH1_Wno8L6weQfSJHYNW_I/s1600/IMG_1955.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6z5B1bxENQc3447lmgxhTJVzIj7g_hyQjHZBp8HteR__O_tOhBRM2yXIhZYTt5z0YnB3khFJ9Zmw2wDvu12UvZBilP10Bxs4B392TY7psXQFZGAjFo86aig8n9PpDPM7i7cduLqYH_tk/s1600/IMG_1961.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6z5B1bxENQc3447lmgxhTJVzIj7g_hyQjHZBp8HteR__O_tOhBRM2yXIhZYTt5z0YnB3khFJ9Zmw2wDvu12UvZBilP10Bxs4B392TY7psXQFZGAjFo86aig8n9PpDPM7i7cduLqYH_tk/s400/IMG_1961.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695379475065549634" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6z5B1bxENQc3447lmgxhTJVzIj7g_hyQjHZBp8HteR__O_tOhBRM2yXIhZYTt5z0YnB3khFJ9Zmw2wDvu12UvZBilP10Bxs4B392TY7psXQFZGAjFo86aig8n9PpDPM7i7cduLqYH_tk/s1600/IMG_1961.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>The layering of vivid colors and patterns had me excited to get home and redecorate. I realized, however, that all this color in a tight urban space would be too much. I need color and pattern like this in shorter doses and spread over a larger space to keep from going crazy or burning out on it.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHBtXVBcVGCwtyf46RFE80oUUI9hwlTriz7ShrtZdu86cdKzd6DXfReteKswL3XmJiZTcHpWWPd0Q-kAb6mrlbciC0EcVDGNccJT8t0vSReET6ld6kV8jvXUhRHSbXFkszCz5Ay9W_vkQ/s1600/IMG_1976.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHBtXVBcVGCwtyf46RFE80oUUI9hwlTriz7ShrtZdu86cdKzd6DXfReteKswL3XmJiZTcHpWWPd0Q-kAb6mrlbciC0EcVDGNccJT8t0vSReET6ld6kV8jvXUhRHSbXFkszCz5Ay9W_vkQ/s400/IMG_1976.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695379288943055810" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHBtXVBcVGCwtyf46RFE80oUUI9hwlTriz7ShrtZdu86cdKzd6DXfReteKswL3XmJiZTcHpWWPd0Q-kAb6mrlbciC0EcVDGNccJT8t0vSReET6ld6kV8jvXUhRHSbXFkszCz5Ay9W_vkQ/s1600/IMG_1976.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuDoxivUqwG-mhBVLMj2gFnE53r73OzMB6b5h9TFBW-m-mHvMBNygQtnojRrWM4dmxnDMF8GIHz0M9CqdkXOmvhbUVGwAXlL-udm47NmuM3y42-zsZx1BmZlXxBlPrkJEoAGod6cebceE/s1600/IMG_1977.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuDoxivUqwG-mhBVLMj2gFnE53r73OzMB6b5h9TFBW-m-mHvMBNygQtnojRrWM4dmxnDMF8GIHz0M9CqdkXOmvhbUVGwAXlL-udm47NmuM3y42-zsZx1BmZlXxBlPrkJEoAGod6cebceE/s400/IMG_1977.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695379158742066290" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuDoxivUqwG-mhBVLMj2gFnE53r73OzMB6b5h9TFBW-m-mHvMBNygQtnojRrWM4dmxnDMF8GIHz0M9CqdkXOmvhbUVGwAXlL-udm47NmuM3y42-zsZx1BmZlXxBlPrkJEoAGod6cebceE/s1600/IMG_1977.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDtILjcifFppVRe8IYmHMt4fgMVNZsNuM98CALnDb5mTixgDzoMKn1CnSriOC7bkl0Thw7mmUaeYE61yQQGXzeGG51pcWznp2kJOhMtqbOa_BdBPHvuViXxKmYZspvCTzalCtotgnvAks/s1600/IMG_1979.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDtILjcifFppVRe8IYmHMt4fgMVNZsNuM98CALnDb5mTixgDzoMKn1CnSriOC7bkl0Thw7mmUaeYE61yQQGXzeGG51pcWznp2kJOhMtqbOa_BdBPHvuViXxKmYZspvCTzalCtotgnvAks/s400/IMG_1979.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695379020383312162" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDtILjcifFppVRe8IYmHMt4fgMVNZsNuM98CALnDb5mTixgDzoMKn1CnSriOC7bkl0Thw7mmUaeYE61yQQGXzeGG51pcWznp2kJOhMtqbOa_BdBPHvuViXxKmYZspvCTzalCtotgnvAks/s1600/IMG_1979.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYZS5zujF3uyUoDpYLVfVo0gQnS_OerZwew1txsL8CY4k_zbiJBPys3zDGwsXmPguc777ZGjW4w0fRv638Cb5tBy5F7WQge05tnxVzLUkDezSV26H1bN1OS4SvC7P6Wj-N2ggcDgKq_Fk/s1600/IMG_1980.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYZS5zujF3uyUoDpYLVfVo0gQnS_OerZwew1txsL8CY4k_zbiJBPys3zDGwsXmPguc777ZGjW4w0fRv638Cb5tBy5F7WQge05tnxVzLUkDezSV26H1bN1OS4SvC7P6Wj-N2ggcDgKq_Fk/s400/IMG_1980.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695378923755007778" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYZS5zujF3uyUoDpYLVfVo0gQnS_OerZwew1txsL8CY4k_zbiJBPys3zDGwsXmPguc777ZGjW4w0fRv638Cb5tBy5F7WQge05tnxVzLUkDezSV26H1bN1OS4SvC7P6Wj-N2ggcDgKq_Fk/s1600/IMG_1980.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilZfWUsxi_eJ9lMPH9b3I6zjO_10rGiNeTqIHXMB1-xE8I6ORzEvVPm6peV_bzN_RN636kucTc_ciIZLKmM_qKH3Xg17iZ0_P3FsceaqQw9NpVLbXfQI3Kj2iGcdNv0vRxxgkhoGE3aUQ/s1600/IMG_1982.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilZfWUsxi_eJ9lMPH9b3I6zjO_10rGiNeTqIHXMB1-xE8I6ORzEvVPm6peV_bzN_RN636kucTc_ciIZLKmM_qKH3Xg17iZ0_P3FsceaqQw9NpVLbXfQI3Kj2iGcdNv0vRxxgkhoGE3aUQ/s400/IMG_1982.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695378809371293186" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilZfWUsxi_eJ9lMPH9b3I6zjO_10rGiNeTqIHXMB1-xE8I6ORzEvVPm6peV_bzN_RN636kucTc_ciIZLKmM_qKH3Xg17iZ0_P3FsceaqQw9NpVLbXfQI3Kj2iGcdNv0vRxxgkhoGE3aUQ/s1600/IMG_1982.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKp_KJB-4H3vp7UknlBb3_gnwQUzyD8alsE7s4M9GyLJxGlulkztlYD0S_PexfNZAYC1HMHTbog9mpZN2mWQ2kNZhR4niNtbJQU343Tpdc-0oiSvTi0x75mjpKhfKHHnSVAvrpaC5n0dU/s1600/IMG_1998.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKp_KJB-4H3vp7UknlBb3_gnwQUzyD8alsE7s4M9GyLJxGlulkztlYD0S_PexfNZAYC1HMHTbog9mpZN2mWQ2kNZhR4niNtbJQU343Tpdc-0oiSvTi0x75mjpKhfKHHnSVAvrpaC5n0dU/s400/IMG_1998.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695378675872637954" /></a><br /></div></div></div></div></div><div>I spent hours just wandering around the house over and over. I hope I get to return to Casa Hyder someday. For more information on the house, check out t<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2007/05/09/realestate/09GH-mexico.html">his New York Times article</a>. </div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-60459120633461523472012-01-04T17:23:00.000-05:002012-01-08T22:54:05.897-05:00SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1KI9qFOK4V2G8c8gd-gLc7mwSTAMFlWlkf64ebyV6qWt_xI019EDIckLhpLBDrlpUbp9Qozir8Q0tMKfEzj-Te0W0cIAUH3-yQ_D9agyVjv-Vk8JOfWPsinKYbHGg-48QqUdCsExJnug/s1600/IMG_1777.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 298px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1KI9qFOK4V2G8c8gd-gLc7mwSTAMFlWlkf64ebyV6qWt_xI019EDIckLhpLBDrlpUbp9Qozir8Q0tMKfEzj-Te0W0cIAUH3-yQ_D9agyVjv-Vk8JOfWPsinKYbHGg-48QqUdCsExJnug/s400/IMG_1777.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695391740063405042" /></a><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1KI9qFOK4V2G8c8gd-gLc7mwSTAMFlWlkf64ebyV6qWt_xI019EDIckLhpLBDrlpUbp9Qozir8Q0tMKfEzj-Te0W0cIAUH3-yQ_D9agyVjv-Vk8JOfWPsinKYbHGg-48QqUdCsExJnug/s1600/IMG_1777.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>We were lucky enough to spend New Years with friends in the beautiful Spanish colonial town of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Here are some images of the town and the surrounding countryside, where I rode a horse for the first time ever. It was a great trip... Happy 2012!</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEg1ariRwocRYqPH3syyoUcSf45pYiQ7tprxX9WNhzGc4_3KdUnUIGJnbwTgFd0g-l2GKk90hlWTDMqZyTD_GYAwzTmiiaob_EeBuur2aFR8Km71Ls9uiKg2WX3PES2v53m1mMkE6QbqA/s1600/IMG_1895.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEg1ariRwocRYqPH3syyoUcSf45pYiQ7tprxX9WNhzGc4_3KdUnUIGJnbwTgFd0g-l2GKk90hlWTDMqZyTD_GYAwzTmiiaob_EeBuur2aFR8Km71Ls9uiKg2WX3PES2v53m1mMkE6QbqA/s400/IMG_1895.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695391540691170034" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEg1ariRwocRYqPH3syyoUcSf45pYiQ7tprxX9WNhzGc4_3KdUnUIGJnbwTgFd0g-l2GKk90hlWTDMqZyTD_GYAwzTmiiaob_EeBuur2aFR8Km71Ls9uiKg2WX3PES2v53m1mMkE6QbqA/s1600/IMG_1895.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMjEX2mq0vHNik5OEPAVgAKdTgacAVheJOBhQE2genoHRynzBPFPpZBttknlLTOjDuHekTZvLKOnxzCZ22K0bM-Tv22HFqPwefs5vke7QOpbDvhePZJsSJ0hyr6S1CuvdlT8LDh7GBhO8/s1600/IMG_1897.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMjEX2mq0vHNik5OEPAVgAKdTgacAVheJOBhQE2genoHRynzBPFPpZBttknlLTOjDuHekTZvLKOnxzCZ22K0bM-Tv22HFqPwefs5vke7QOpbDvhePZJsSJ0hyr6S1CuvdlT8LDh7GBhO8/s400/IMG_1897.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695391354941270514" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMjEX2mq0vHNik5OEPAVgAKdTgacAVheJOBhQE2genoHRynzBPFPpZBttknlLTOjDuHekTZvLKOnxzCZ22K0bM-Tv22HFqPwefs5vke7QOpbDvhePZJsSJ0hyr6S1CuvdlT8LDh7GBhO8/s1600/IMG_1897.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj131nTDcbl4iLidkTFQ_UiLa-Nw1lNdB3T9ago53QgsDN8p8n3_a5Q8n8LOP6b2ImO_0csT05hzM8vn5b5PBjkWP3qRWKrOcqgo6Cu_5389e04IGnPD_SjQrSc6_FgYcOX5wy_vd-n1l8/s1600/IMG_1899.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj131nTDcbl4iLidkTFQ_UiLa-Nw1lNdB3T9ago53QgsDN8p8n3_a5Q8n8LOP6b2ImO_0csT05hzM8vn5b5PBjkWP3qRWKrOcqgo6Cu_5389e04IGnPD_SjQrSc6_FgYcOX5wy_vd-n1l8/s400/IMG_1899.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695390836104873698" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj131nTDcbl4iLidkTFQ_UiLa-Nw1lNdB3T9ago53QgsDN8p8n3_a5Q8n8LOP6b2ImO_0csT05hzM8vn5b5PBjkWP3qRWKrOcqgo6Cu_5389e04IGnPD_SjQrSc6_FgYcOX5wy_vd-n1l8/s1600/IMG_1899.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDFj-mRpnHvGtkwKfBlIK18Acq-TBiKBd73YKMPV67SfA5yDLmpVLr8FAlsUUR7uADZfNUr1tMA9gXa9adsiFTPi3vS47eHAr17RoPSRGSZHFi55I4KpwaH2xwBL_-y1FazzGI0jGi4D8/s1600/IMG_1900.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDFj-mRpnHvGtkwKfBlIK18Acq-TBiKBd73YKMPV67SfA5yDLmpVLr8FAlsUUR7uADZfNUr1tMA9gXa9adsiFTPi3vS47eHAr17RoPSRGSZHFi55I4KpwaH2xwBL_-y1FazzGI0jGi4D8/s400/IMG_1900.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695390574530229058" /></a><br /></div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-2017353579505569772011-12-05T09:25:00.000-05:002011-12-05T09:25:00.718-05:00LAST IMPRESSIONS: THAILAND<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglXVmq_Ri2RX2jGTWekZxEaLD7EyGzsSSs5YT5WLN1MoDjvW5213_EhegcZXCqilY9nIGXE8DgmzounVt69lgyXemVfYqjiSZqzee69zoLD-CQDnL-40NU6kZsUh4-KXd7onL1LlA-5ek/s1600/IMG_1535.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 334px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglXVmq_Ri2RX2jGTWekZxEaLD7EyGzsSSs5YT5WLN1MoDjvW5213_EhegcZXCqilY9nIGXE8DgmzounVt69lgyXemVfYqjiSZqzee69zoLD-CQDnL-40NU6kZsUh4-KXd7onL1LlA-5ek/s400/IMG_1535.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682423049969860450" /></a><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglXVmq_Ri2RX2jGTWekZxEaLD7EyGzsSSs5YT5WLN1MoDjvW5213_EhegcZXCqilY9nIGXE8DgmzounVt69lgyXemVfYqjiSZqzee69zoLD-CQDnL-40NU6kZsUh4-KXd7onL1LlA-5ek/s1600/IMG_1535.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu4boi8a7d4i4c8p1t5Gb5yNvVHN5R6h-q7c8jl3WGFnrGyVZW8Ju8RiLZk5Cgk-77BKgkzCtle1U-F1mZIKrsrGbcGQThyuuvX_b_HF2GqaZzER1kScJzWn358BfMMrapHl93MBumc20/s1600/IMG_1502.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 334px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu4boi8a7d4i4c8p1t5Gb5yNvVHN5R6h-q7c8jl3WGFnrGyVZW8Ju8RiLZk5Cgk-77BKgkzCtle1U-F1mZIKrsrGbcGQThyuuvX_b_HF2GqaZzER1kScJzWn358BfMMrapHl93MBumc20/s400/IMG_1502.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682422691898499378" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 334px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJytRiO4hyphenhyphenYPbeKqxdNwEdARak9c_bSChZ7cHzx53e4COQa1ag0hz2TpLF2fJgan-wlCR4gjVb9M3LUdgh13KHqe_meZOQfBDNWmj6W6RfBRkL5nAREXw6sDSt-mWYQPvnaJcDzGslKok/s400/IMG_1483.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682422773848986898" /></div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0-HLz5lafKZ8mAGeXesvOTMRKaZQQkKf5dAFlw2O2wBB1FxOWY9cY6oQO38JsrJumRRGmiRplVPJBJEbN-yk2U-Fb5M2FprK1Br8eJmkN5XgcYpS5Dh-TVQN6E1uqzKVFr49ZjiK-vlk/s1600/IMG_1504.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; 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height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm00eviyF1eh-dGHU2A0ieWh0Ppvk_IvITO4wdSHkm73NAVr_5YB4PWep8QpHURkaqW2hyU7aKX0pj75qCVcJbdl1aLNs_PzuRDxha0mHpFVbAw4VYrzmu7Fd-_YbAT1546P6vVmWwY2I/s400/IMG_1631.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682418779376688018" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm00eviyF1eh-dGHU2A0ieWh0Ppvk_IvITO4wdSHkm73NAVr_5YB4PWep8QpHURkaqW2hyU7aKX0pj75qCVcJbdl1aLNs_PzuRDxha0mHpFVbAw4VYrzmu7Fd-_YbAT1546P6vVmWwY2I/s1600/IMG_1631.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoCGStQSH71XUvQRwDv0KTAG2Cx9L1Lh_F9EWQsVNPOo_Z36u3NzyIgmSOw5ZJK9f0ok1l5JdQC4uZ_C-Y9-9S42MMYoD3njaWwwlLr_TwT3sCmSNgIryvPyV8QeOIyIh3-_cdREDbvas/s1600/IMG_1636.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 334px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoCGStQSH71XUvQRwDv0KTAG2Cx9L1Lh_F9EWQsVNPOo_Z36u3NzyIgmSOw5ZJK9f0ok1l5JdQC4uZ_C-Y9-9S42MMYoD3njaWwwlLr_TwT3sCmSNgIryvPyV8QeOIyIh3-_cdREDbvas/s400/IMG_1636.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682418697530796466" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoCGStQSH71XUvQRwDv0KTAG2Cx9L1Lh_F9EWQsVNPOo_Z36u3NzyIgmSOw5ZJK9f0ok1l5JdQC4uZ_C-Y9-9S42MMYoD3njaWwwlLr_TwT3sCmSNgIryvPyV8QeOIyIh3-_cdREDbvas/s1600/IMG_1636.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-n0d7Q-3xBmCI8ktDyL2bZeWNUuuAvVbooeZ5jUpeFl2Jvw20T4fD7HbJKUxVd-q6zWfv8Sm-D076cU_WDgqxOl5UiL9fht18bf6ZFPvtT4dp8oC8ZHMLJgLlYWU0D62B_XR-V7GX_fo/s1600/IMG_1643.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 334px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-n0d7Q-3xBmCI8ktDyL2bZeWNUuuAvVbooeZ5jUpeFl2Jvw20T4fD7HbJKUxVd-q6zWfv8Sm-D076cU_WDgqxOl5UiL9fht18bf6ZFPvtT4dp8oC8ZHMLJgLlYWU0D62B_XR-V7GX_fo/s400/IMG_1643.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682418603379750146" /></a><br /></div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-45467761395510141402011-12-04T13:18:00.041-05:002011-12-04T16:12:41.572-05:00BANGKOK<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0oovfDcS_FDk7h9QHzCDL45LmghfXhiE9Lnsf8ltzKLqQqwWMDpJrZaWkgepY1QAyQqOhTBdULk-UdZzlvHnRMM8GFxHtbFmRDsTYumMhEYgztXipLC_WZgYoDW93N51QWlVtAmMpGcA/s1600/IMG_3742.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0oovfDcS_FDk7h9QHzCDL45LmghfXhiE9Lnsf8ltzKLqQqwWMDpJrZaWkgepY1QAyQqOhTBdULk-UdZzlvHnRMM8GFxHtbFmRDsTYumMhEYgztXipLC_WZgYoDW93N51QWlVtAmMpGcA/s400/IMG_3742.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682349312991428034" /></a><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0oovfDcS_FDk7h9QHzCDL45LmghfXhiE9Lnsf8ltzKLqQqwWMDpJrZaWkgepY1QAyQqOhTBdULk-UdZzlvHnRMM8GFxHtbFmRDsTYumMhEYgztXipLC_WZgYoDW93N51QWlVtAmMpGcA/s1600/IMG_3742.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>We had just two short days in the exciting, worldly capital of Thailand. Together with our friends, we packed it in.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivft5v_PK4Sk1zmNjdSgGQ6eQwt68lcUNd0ohpEOEFxBizgdjkwxeOcUvfBFeGHmeT3og5z6Iz8yceKKTSm_9GZfWoPhGMyDFTNPohlL7rVq56fYEHJvDnTxipRp99lp_6NlCNuFrbBIM/s1600/IMG_3659.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivft5v_PK4Sk1zmNjdSgGQ6eQwt68lcUNd0ohpEOEFxBizgdjkwxeOcUvfBFeGHmeT3og5z6Iz8yceKKTSm_9GZfWoPhGMyDFTNPohlL7rVq56fYEHJvDnTxipRp99lp_6NlCNuFrbBIM/s400/IMG_3659.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682348991429592178" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivft5v_PK4Sk1zmNjdSgGQ6eQwt68lcUNd0ohpEOEFxBizgdjkwxeOcUvfBFeGHmeT3og5z6Iz8yceKKTSm_9GZfWoPhGMyDFTNPohlL7rVq56fYEHJvDnTxipRp99lp_6NlCNuFrbBIM/s1600/IMG_3659.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>An important stop for me was the <a href="http://www.jimthompsonhouse.com/">Jim Thompson House</a>. This American ex-pat helped bring Thai silk to the world after the second world war, and his company has become an institution in the design industry. His house is made from reassembled traditional Thai homes, and is filled with an impressive collection of Asian art. It was beautifully decorated and although the tour was insanely boring and no photos were permitted inside, I enjoyed seeing it. </div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdeBrnmEUdTecezmJ-vjFxDXYpOQU_eWplkCgLLaKqo0TJ0LCtqsFlEziE63vMJ0ob42Hm6dq0qn2c_34ppzFzDPVvNUSNQwBtgv2xmtWIWV-QpPZ1akahIMHXUaQbTVrFAl9SdqwhAj8/s1600/IMG_3641.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdeBrnmEUdTecezmJ-vjFxDXYpOQU_eWplkCgLLaKqo0TJ0LCtqsFlEziE63vMJ0ob42Hm6dq0qn2c_34ppzFzDPVvNUSNQwBtgv2xmtWIWV-QpPZ1akahIMHXUaQbTVrFAl9SdqwhAj8/s400/IMG_3641.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682348797669267218" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdeBrnmEUdTecezmJ-vjFxDXYpOQU_eWplkCgLLaKqo0TJ0LCtqsFlEziE63vMJ0ob42Hm6dq0qn2c_34ppzFzDPVvNUSNQwBtgv2xmtWIWV-QpPZ1akahIMHXUaQbTVrFAl9SdqwhAj8/s1600/IMG_3641.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQJ0gnPA3OKQPekPmBUuZhit-sWXCJXz0NTmogim6fYvh0C9rgCzrPrLBdm0Hxq-yJS1JS7KvtHGJoU2Srhb6XKYejM4Jj-uQOgggQMW0iJCR-A4Au8bzSkEYKrWHNCHGFpT9hj-YxJ0A/s1600/IMG_3653.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQJ0gnPA3OKQPekPmBUuZhit-sWXCJXz0NTmogim6fYvh0C9rgCzrPrLBdm0Hxq-yJS1JS7KvtHGJoU2Srhb6XKYejM4Jj-uQOgggQMW0iJCR-A4Au8bzSkEYKrWHNCHGFpT9hj-YxJ0A/s400/IMG_3653.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682348629057317986" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQJ0gnPA3OKQPekPmBUuZhit-sWXCJXz0NTmogim6fYvh0C9rgCzrPrLBdm0Hxq-yJS1JS7KvtHGJoU2Srhb6XKYejM4Jj-uQOgggQMW0iJCR-A4Au8bzSkEYKrWHNCHGFpT9hj-YxJ0A/s1600/IMG_3653.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPg9Ua1wme6Eny-3VNkLFpFQC1i5G6B52dQ8kBEPKxipgrnnWsfk-52e6W2JOG_KbJhInFVJO5egtvfbnEdw6Sy0yynGX-uKdfWeVDTyb3bGbOgMIYvpDXAWm2a0vbODuTAAgufC9Z8kQ/s1600/IMG_3621.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPg9Ua1wme6Eny-3VNkLFpFQC1i5G6B52dQ8kBEPKxipgrnnWsfk-52e6W2JOG_KbJhInFVJO5egtvfbnEdw6Sy0yynGX-uKdfWeVDTyb3bGbOgMIYvpDXAWm2a0vbODuTAAgufC9Z8kQ/s400/IMG_3621.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682348318045387874" /></a></div><div>We also visited the royal complex of temples and palaces. Incredible architecture, a mix of the 18th and 19th century 'Bangkok' style with European influences. The Thai take the monarchy seriously. Photos of the king are everywhere, all over the country.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPg9Ua1wme6Eny-3VNkLFpFQC1i5G6B52dQ8kBEPKxipgrnnWsfk-52e6W2JOG_KbJhInFVJO5egtvfbnEdw6Sy0yynGX-uKdfWeVDTyb3bGbOgMIYvpDXAWm2a0vbODuTAAgufC9Z8kQ/s1600/IMG_3621.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5_WqGFRj3VNVrnSQBJp3OzDQSrrR1b22Yj1eC2kYZluLpBgjLU73w40R4_cTMGlBCkn1wu6sUKBq7IFS2ipJ2zICynsgqzwVNB6RTx9z_4zDHvX031oOWPkAE4IpF5ZwraiPreneNrL0/s1600/IMG_3619.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5_WqGFRj3VNVrnSQBJp3OzDQSrrR1b22Yj1eC2kYZluLpBgjLU73w40R4_cTMGlBCkn1wu6sUKBq7IFS2ipJ2zICynsgqzwVNB6RTx9z_4zDHvX031oOWPkAE4IpF5ZwraiPreneNrL0/s400/IMG_3619.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682348048983222690" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5_WqGFRj3VNVrnSQBJp3OzDQSrrR1b22Yj1eC2kYZluLpBgjLU73w40R4_cTMGlBCkn1wu6sUKBq7IFS2ipJ2zICynsgqzwVNB6RTx9z_4zDHvX031oOWPkAE4IpF5ZwraiPreneNrL0/s1600/IMG_3619.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_-dnJ13wBwo4wOUn15sKkmmCJei8w9dssc9WHJUt2WQmnLZqg4HA6A4C0LCQ13fve1cpsuCPgXQunqrcF7x58BMmEYFG7ogllbyBQNklJyIva1uPv6n3-8jK0ERuzygL-6rOp_4hfFXE/s400/IMG_3624.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682348478191855730" /></div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVrlDe0MHO8Pb4niK0qOCDIrdQ5-e7Lttau4-nnY7MfnwRfp1PhizIz7jo1vAJNaUUtd5RuMNLJbExGFBMI_l7JPQiX_Yf8F6nmYkazVVB4PGb7I7BWLbA-Via1DNSAfNa7_HiqYxuBk8/s1600/IMG_3615.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVrlDe0MHO8Pb4niK0qOCDIrdQ5-e7Lttau4-nnY7MfnwRfp1PhizIz7jo1vAJNaUUtd5RuMNLJbExGFBMI_l7JPQiX_Yf8F6nmYkazVVB4PGb7I7BWLbA-Via1DNSAfNa7_HiqYxuBk8/s400/IMG_3615.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682347717734865970" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVrlDe0MHO8Pb4niK0qOCDIrdQ5-e7Lttau4-nnY7MfnwRfp1PhizIz7jo1vAJNaUUtd5RuMNLJbExGFBMI_l7JPQiX_Yf8F6nmYkazVVB4PGb7I7BWLbA-Via1DNSAfNa7_HiqYxuBk8/s1600/IMG_3615.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL4p_IC0pkGtifUy9J7QmP1LxgFWvX_ioT-0D3iHs2X4WY8wvJflCxQkfYm_LC8KcRCxQ0RrxAdiYnfGUEs6AdiLXCViSisZAYc0xs-5dw1e3c5zTxBIt3mKGNV3lmpicDI1h6VUJu000/s1600/IMG_3611.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL4p_IC0pkGtifUy9J7QmP1LxgFWvX_ioT-0D3iHs2X4WY8wvJflCxQkfYm_LC8KcRCxQ0RrxAdiYnfGUEs6AdiLXCViSisZAYc0xs-5dw1e3c5zTxBIt3mKGNV3lmpicDI1h6VUJu000/s400/IMG_3611.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682347550260058834" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL4p_IC0pkGtifUy9J7QmP1LxgFWvX_ioT-0D3iHs2X4WY8wvJflCxQkfYm_LC8KcRCxQ0RrxAdiYnfGUEs6AdiLXCViSisZAYc0xs-5dw1e3c5zTxBIt3mKGNV3lmpicDI1h6VUJu000/s1600/IMG_3611.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVUyR4GUUQPt-7mZpsvxtzikFBkkPSxBvH5rbO19Bp2nYenld4COOQFUtZa-2rjw_SUZ83INpp1Wg91kSmQxzAXhNj_lRh0jO5ZMffvJBNR-JDp2-GE3JfbJHLZDmxQ0RtdqKs3MaUzVc/s1600/IMG_3586.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVUyR4GUUQPt-7mZpsvxtzikFBkkPSxBvH5rbO19Bp2nYenld4COOQFUtZa-2rjw_SUZ83INpp1Wg91kSmQxzAXhNj_lRh0jO5ZMffvJBNR-JDp2-GE3JfbJHLZDmxQ0RtdqKs3MaUzVc/s400/IMG_3586.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682347327642919282" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVUyR4GUUQPt-7mZpsvxtzikFBkkPSxBvH5rbO19Bp2nYenld4COOQFUtZa-2rjw_SUZ83INpp1Wg91kSmQxzAXhNj_lRh0jO5ZMffvJBNR-JDp2-GE3JfbJHLZDmxQ0RtdqKs3MaUzVc/s1600/IMG_3586.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZvDgHGm1S3bYuH6E5-3H_V4uHI0Lyg6lW6QyETNUszKcxHXP9-gxu5ScSTSKmUF7Hy6_Ph-kMSUY8UfRlumGJVJMEubNolvz4bQRvmWxmro3WxrC_J7H0YHuLwP7tUsu2QbNmQlDvVVs/s1600/IMG_3579.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZvDgHGm1S3bYuH6E5-3H_V4uHI0Lyg6lW6QyETNUszKcxHXP9-gxu5ScSTSKmUF7Hy6_Ph-kMSUY8UfRlumGJVJMEubNolvz4bQRvmWxmro3WxrC_J7H0YHuLwP7tUsu2QbNmQlDvVVs/s400/IMG_3579.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682347173578129122" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZvDgHGm1S3bYuH6E5-3H_V4uHI0Lyg6lW6QyETNUszKcxHXP9-gxu5ScSTSKmUF7Hy6_Ph-kMSUY8UfRlumGJVJMEubNolvz4bQRvmWxmro3WxrC_J7H0YHuLwP7tUsu2QbNmQlDvVVs/s1600/IMG_3579.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>These huge buildings were filled with intricately painted murals. So delicate and constantly being restored.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifxePepJIcJLKdcCbWULxDKj5NtoDb4gnHAjXWQXbozQYDEWtH2eZgWXqOUZH6AAAOufhn54nP6XW7SrFvAnz-IynBQPVNS1TE-DVxFDydvCPD5dpOpBu2h0P_lMuZGxc65yIgG01Ef0M/s1600/IMG_3576.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifxePepJIcJLKdcCbWULxDKj5NtoDb4gnHAjXWQXbozQYDEWtH2eZgWXqOUZH6AAAOufhn54nP6XW7SrFvAnz-IynBQPVNS1TE-DVxFDydvCPD5dpOpBu2h0P_lMuZGxc65yIgG01Ef0M/s400/IMG_3576.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682346967641303714" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifxePepJIcJLKdcCbWULxDKj5NtoDb4gnHAjXWQXbozQYDEWtH2eZgWXqOUZH6AAAOufhn54nP6XW7SrFvAnz-IynBQPVNS1TE-DVxFDydvCPD5dpOpBu2h0P_lMuZGxc65yIgG01Ef0M/s1600/IMG_3576.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHoLfYlCGo1Q01xw7rGgTTHg0_Yv04kYdpHPcrZuUn1F6j7CMVahuxg4E8ytOSoR46Qmva_peOGkPxrZoiraOijWo4T8B3xdXJhao0FfRlA4BeS_jGYQWXlaF3rpZOXFbFtysg0xCkgws/s1600/IMG_3568.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHoLfYlCGo1Q01xw7rGgTTHg0_Yv04kYdpHPcrZuUn1F6j7CMVahuxg4E8ytOSoR46Qmva_peOGkPxrZoiraOijWo4T8B3xdXJhao0FfRlA4BeS_jGYQWXlaF3rpZOXFbFtysg0xCkgws/s400/IMG_3568.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682346708125034370" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHoLfYlCGo1Q01xw7rGgTTHg0_Yv04kYdpHPcrZuUn1F6j7CMVahuxg4E8ytOSoR46Qmva_peOGkPxrZoiraOijWo4T8B3xdXJhao0FfRlA4BeS_jGYQWXlaF3rpZOXFbFtysg0xCkgws/s1600/IMG_3568.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>Street scene!</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh47n6goPzpC2hLTJLaq9cvA3HeyUhmY-rlq70iBmeXJa44iNQ1B-yS0WHyHBEKIqRZBuXWOJjxyT6Dygbzkg2esbUvoSWZrqjYq2nuQhxrrvUoORhE7slS121Yle2e7gaL01SSeXpW6UQ/s1600/IMG_3556.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh47n6goPzpC2hLTJLaq9cvA3HeyUhmY-rlq70iBmeXJa44iNQ1B-yS0WHyHBEKIqRZBuXWOJjxyT6Dygbzkg2esbUvoSWZrqjYq2nuQhxrrvUoORhE7slS121Yle2e7gaL01SSeXpW6UQ/s400/IMG_3556.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682346444669783922" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh47n6goPzpC2hLTJLaq9cvA3HeyUhmY-rlq70iBmeXJa44iNQ1B-yS0WHyHBEKIqRZBuXWOJjxyT6Dygbzkg2esbUvoSWZrqjYq2nuQhxrrvUoORhE7slS121Yle2e7gaL01SSeXpW6UQ/s1600/IMG_3556.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>The flooding had mostly subsided, but we did see some flooded areas near the river during high tide. It was interesting to speak to people about the causes and repercussions of the floods. Most feel the blame lies with a political system mired in corruption that prevented proper preparation.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIrugd8LnHamdh_OqvQS3ZQFDqgg0dZsfkdhqdR82cXFhDrfrXrvRL-iWEXCwwdFEA_-djNI4nait6ffazJketlHCRC5VEN6UbeOqHGEQBsSC30wjUobjgi3orN5GxzFPiLzkZhCWSDyI/s1600/IMG_3529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIrugd8LnHamdh_OqvQS3ZQFDqgg0dZsfkdhqdR82cXFhDrfrXrvRL-iWEXCwwdFEA_-djNI4nait6ffazJketlHCRC5VEN6UbeOqHGEQBsSC30wjUobjgi3orN5GxzFPiLzkZhCWSDyI/s400/IMG_3529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682346234127341874" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIrugd8LnHamdh_OqvQS3ZQFDqgg0dZsfkdhqdR82cXFhDrfrXrvRL-iWEXCwwdFEA_-djNI4nait6ffazJketlHCRC5VEN6UbeOqHGEQBsSC30wjUobjgi3orN5GxzFPiLzkZhCWSDyI/s1600/IMG_3529.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>As evening arrived, we hit the streets of Chinatown for some mind-blowing food.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIP0zk0YQDIivTd7_hYY3h_S2ARIcDvtqAVyhI2uXWHfVhymcE76Avkn_2nCAmLDLpLWrPWY285mOLaU0cn-uim0q1yQrs9JVkFTXrd16gFGfLPqE7L2O87plHiDOp8eq9WnSWlUmAdQk/s1600/IMG_3542.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIP0zk0YQDIivTd7_hYY3h_S2ARIcDvtqAVyhI2uXWHfVhymcE76Avkn_2nCAmLDLpLWrPWY285mOLaU0cn-uim0q1yQrs9JVkFTXrd16gFGfLPqE7L2O87plHiDOp8eq9WnSWlUmAdQk/s400/IMG_3542.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682346098641554690" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIP0zk0YQDIivTd7_hYY3h_S2ARIcDvtqAVyhI2uXWHfVhymcE76Avkn_2nCAmLDLpLWrPWY285mOLaU0cn-uim0q1yQrs9JVkFTXrd16gFGfLPqE7L2O87plHiDOp8eq9WnSWlUmAdQk/s1600/IMG_3542.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKJ_FSGULNlOeBfaYEak7dD6HESLxU_3HZpPG5ydrVdy7somh-4GhHr8Ivf5sepGqrwq25I9-y9FwAqGjaRu6MAVusEZLu1ieHESIIFQ-E6uilGGuSwt3qkuY-A6g2tgtDPKBJmqeFzy4/s1600/IMG_3539.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKJ_FSGULNlOeBfaYEak7dD6HESLxU_3HZpPG5ydrVdy7somh-4GhHr8Ivf5sepGqrwq25I9-y9FwAqGjaRu6MAVusEZLu1ieHESIIFQ-E6uilGGuSwt3qkuY-A6g2tgtDPKBJmqeFzy4/s400/IMG_3539.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682345965401317874" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKJ_FSGULNlOeBfaYEak7dD6HESLxU_3HZpPG5ydrVdy7somh-4GhHr8Ivf5sepGqrwq25I9-y9FwAqGjaRu6MAVusEZLu1ieHESIIFQ-E6uilGGuSwt3qkuY-A6g2tgtDPKBJmqeFzy4/s1600/IMG_3539.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>That included durian, the world's most stinky fruit. Not a favorite.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzjpAdwlFX6oJ6lNhs3O1V7aqcY1eHL5pkBeLdp9FlESY4OCxx75a4DBjD8rZvjHZvtyyhxs-T3mAjQcHvhGUrxHBhMLqo3lI199QkG1g4dv2TUHqBtChMdsVTMT_4PdW2JoBcZtogNlU/s1600/IMG_3533.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzjpAdwlFX6oJ6lNhs3O1V7aqcY1eHL5pkBeLdp9FlESY4OCxx75a4DBjD8rZvjHZvtyyhxs-T3mAjQcHvhGUrxHBhMLqo3lI199QkG1g4dv2TUHqBtChMdsVTMT_4PdW2JoBcZtogNlU/s400/IMG_3533.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682345827105285554" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzjpAdwlFX6oJ6lNhs3O1V7aqcY1eHL5pkBeLdp9FlESY4OCxx75a4DBjD8rZvjHZvtyyhxs-T3mAjQcHvhGUrxHBhMLqo3lI199QkG1g4dv2TUHqBtChMdsVTMT_4PdW2JoBcZtogNlU/s1600/IMG_3533.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUcWoTEPB-g4DqyS9ktv8TjTaU0yPiiD9UC5cUM633bateLZSSRN-WecXjOYHuGoAMIrb2KYLvJx9oT6lq_v8jfubA_VHQ7Q-yza6Pm2p5TQ1X_emh3sPqyvI2I7J7QEMl0QWknepy-RM/s1600/IMG_3534.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUcWoTEPB-g4DqyS9ktv8TjTaU0yPiiD9UC5cUM633bateLZSSRN-WecXjOYHuGoAMIrb2KYLvJx9oT6lq_v8jfubA_VHQ7Q-yza6Pm2p5TQ1X_emh3sPqyvI2I7J7QEMl0QWknepy-RM/s400/IMG_3534.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682345721086280722" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUcWoTEPB-g4DqyS9ktv8TjTaU0yPiiD9UC5cUM633bateLZSSRN-WecXjOYHuGoAMIrb2KYLvJx9oT6lq_v8jfubA_VHQ7Q-yza6Pm2p5TQ1X_emh3sPqyvI2I7J7QEMl0QWknepy-RM/s1600/IMG_3534.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiblPZ3d6EnzrPl-DzGS4U5DsQvqX97lSxGFVr74750IkLeXCbN8bio862GGfD1LR03kwd4vZJYU-hud-kICNgVob6HThzbhvCvhLUS78_KsFZu5J4ZIRL7uw6MmN-_ehj6FofB_vqood8/s1600/IMG_3545.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiblPZ3d6EnzrPl-DzGS4U5DsQvqX97lSxGFVr74750IkLeXCbN8bio862GGfD1LR03kwd4vZJYU-hud-kICNgVob6HThzbhvCvhLUS78_KsFZu5J4ZIRL7uw6MmN-_ehj6FofB_vqood8/s400/IMG_3545.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682345543850646450" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiblPZ3d6EnzrPl-DzGS4U5DsQvqX97lSxGFVr74750IkLeXCbN8bio862GGfD1LR03kwd4vZJYU-hud-kICNgVob6HThzbhvCvhLUS78_KsFZu5J4ZIRL7uw6MmN-_ehj6FofB_vqood8/s1600/IMG_3545.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>We also explored the night flower market.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimPvs4_ZEoZWvTIl6fQqAa9QckEwnDlwCCZEXn9orDTGNShsCvEm6pk93IDzRcut_IQINyrSvV_9q0aXoNisJwBUaQVbI45Id48m0WbhKMQaog-MK6gnnJcoZ48TmwQ1ytcyut5qUHY7s/s1600/IMG_3548.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimPvs4_ZEoZWvTIl6fQqAa9QckEwnDlwCCZEXn9orDTGNShsCvEm6pk93IDzRcut_IQINyrSvV_9q0aXoNisJwBUaQVbI45Id48m0WbhKMQaog-MK6gnnJcoZ48TmwQ1ytcyut5qUHY7s/s400/IMG_3548.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682345374040389698" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimPvs4_ZEoZWvTIl6fQqAa9QckEwnDlwCCZEXn9orDTGNShsCvEm6pk93IDzRcut_IQINyrSvV_9q0aXoNisJwBUaQVbI45Id48m0WbhKMQaog-MK6gnnJcoZ48TmwQ1ytcyut5qUHY7s/s1600/IMG_3548.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBwYBD-Kj9um-KNaIhTqYTvOl4b2WQxMtTVlmo8po9F60WIPC_hFoPhcD6V002KZ5t-6hNvCqsY_3dfI4lfNj8bs6LtFw5WUGktg8_Khf5b6h-YUYgqCM521g0pdKVk9__wC6WVdUD3Uo/s1600/IMG_3549.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBwYBD-Kj9um-KNaIhTqYTvOl4b2WQxMtTVlmo8po9F60WIPC_hFoPhcD6V002KZ5t-6hNvCqsY_3dfI4lfNj8bs6LtFw5WUGktg8_Khf5b6h-YUYgqCM521g0pdKVk9__wC6WVdUD3Uo/s400/IMG_3549.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682345204760601682" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBwYBD-Kj9um-KNaIhTqYTvOl4b2WQxMtTVlmo8po9F60WIPC_hFoPhcD6V002KZ5t-6hNvCqsY_3dfI4lfNj8bs6LtFw5WUGktg8_Khf5b6h-YUYgqCM521g0pdKVk9__wC6WVdUD3Uo/s1600/IMG_3549.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQYC7YbPLq0SaOJp7_d1471zGqBnRUI-c7a39bYEg3l8oo-GLYgVLFUGlQpWqHWECd0308n15XEc22kRNlHX94h1H_TB5FR-tCHnlfNdI7opIdJl51l1SQcOvkNEy_HvdfZ1ytiwUW-M/s1600/IMG_3567.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQYC7YbPLq0SaOJp7_d1471zGqBnRUI-c7a39bYEg3l8oo-GLYgVLFUGlQpWqHWECd0308n15XEc22kRNlHX94h1H_TB5FR-tCHnlfNdI7opIdJl51l1SQcOvkNEy_HvdfZ1ytiwUW-M/s400/IMG_3567.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682344667281147442" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQYC7YbPLq0SaOJp7_d1471zGqBnRUI-c7a39bYEg3l8oo-GLYgVLFUGlQpWqHWECd0308n15XEc22kRNlHX94h1H_TB5FR-tCHnlfNdI7opIdJl51l1SQcOvkNEy_HvdfZ1ytiwUW-M/s1600/IMG_3567.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWkLJzSaIJ6RbTPRmIBU1yedSwXIfoU5dR4ah52uRwmFxAk7glXWXzAUnpx3qSSJ4y7cK5XeCJNFEQiUj-WYpmUf9_3QnoH4lnnKXZRsSjNpyLuvNi0WvLFeekk9wVYEzMy6lcUT6MUY4/s1600/IMG_3570.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWkLJzSaIJ6RbTPRmIBU1yedSwXIfoU5dR4ah52uRwmFxAk7glXWXzAUnpx3qSSJ4y7cK5XeCJNFEQiUj-WYpmUf9_3QnoH4lnnKXZRsSjNpyLuvNi0WvLFeekk9wVYEzMy6lcUT6MUY4/s400/IMG_3570.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682344464018540050" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWkLJzSaIJ6RbTPRmIBU1yedSwXIfoU5dR4ah52uRwmFxAk7glXWXzAUnpx3qSSJ4y7cK5XeCJNFEQiUj-WYpmUf9_3QnoH4lnnKXZRsSjNpyLuvNi0WvLFeekk9wVYEzMy6lcUT6MUY4/s1600/IMG_3570.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg4hIWRs8EKZqR6DznntrgS-uttuLS8Oy_TfJ2QPskDEZ_BX2QRReSBFcWrQJirg_SrFeoD0FCtPymtA0CVA1lE-_puNjRTtM_DlQ_Ec3B8k85wrpGIQEjdAgywkdMEQiTXL6C1KxuvUc/s1600/IMG_3573.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg4hIWRs8EKZqR6DznntrgS-uttuLS8Oy_TfJ2QPskDEZ_BX2QRReSBFcWrQJirg_SrFeoD0FCtPymtA0CVA1lE-_puNjRTtM_DlQ_Ec3B8k85wrpGIQEjdAgywkdMEQiTXL6C1KxuvUc/s400/IMG_3573.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682344299053292354" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg4hIWRs8EKZqR6DznntrgS-uttuLS8Oy_TfJ2QPskDEZ_BX2QRReSBFcWrQJirg_SrFeoD0FCtPymtA0CVA1lE-_puNjRTtM_DlQ_Ec3B8k85wrpGIQEjdAgywkdMEQiTXL6C1KxuvUc/s1600/IMG_3573.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>I think we ate two dinners. Or maybe three. Afterwards we wandered around the red light district of Patpong and saw things we never want to see again. The night ended with a harrowing tuk tuk (motorcycle taxi) ride back to the hotel at 3am. Bangkok knows how to have fun, for sure.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSGMy8eQ4T10Di7gFjdE2j5UjYoqfXTGPQtfvoQYIquGmk81Fh0vv3Xg7-oXUJt-HNlTJ79IRdvNwbE2V_XwSBK-eJV_ifOGMCwlDb1SruiyQgMKLMMbgcjgFMjVyAiBpFuwtZHVVUL8/s1600/IMG_3677.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSGMy8eQ4T10Di7gFjdE2j5UjYoqfXTGPQtfvoQYIquGmk81Fh0vv3Xg7-oXUJt-HNlTJ79IRdvNwbE2V_XwSBK-eJV_ifOGMCwlDb1SruiyQgMKLMMbgcjgFMjVyAiBpFuwtZHVVUL8/s400/IMG_3677.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682343786423389634" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSGMy8eQ4T10Di7gFjdE2j5UjYoqfXTGPQtfvoQYIquGmk81Fh0vv3Xg7-oXUJt-HNlTJ79IRdvNwbE2V_XwSBK-eJV_ifOGMCwlDb1SruiyQgMKLMMbgcjgFMjVyAiBpFuwtZHVVUL8/s1600/IMG_3677.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>The following evening we went to a Thai boxing match, which was a lot more entertaining than I thought it would be.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPgJnFVTHfSE6c5FdjnK7C-RpsTMjMkdZDLnDuzfjGZhS2cGAoYKjZYxUOVS2N3Lgqs8nP_KLoP3MD5_8dR7W_ZGgb-_Ao2KEz03_coa_erd1SVfRZ-zQpcnCgjr5CHYL-BWzmK_3utDU/s1600/IMG_3688.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPgJnFVTHfSE6c5FdjnK7C-RpsTMjMkdZDLnDuzfjGZhS2cGAoYKjZYxUOVS2N3Lgqs8nP_KLoP3MD5_8dR7W_ZGgb-_Ao2KEz03_coa_erd1SVfRZ-zQpcnCgjr5CHYL-BWzmK_3utDU/s400/IMG_3688.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682343590190741090" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPgJnFVTHfSE6c5FdjnK7C-RpsTMjMkdZDLnDuzfjGZhS2cGAoYKjZYxUOVS2N3Lgqs8nP_KLoP3MD5_8dR7W_ZGgb-_Ao2KEz03_coa_erd1SVfRZ-zQpcnCgjr5CHYL-BWzmK_3utDU/s1600/IMG_3688.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>As much as watching the fighters, who were elegant and skilled, watching the spectators was just as much fun.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidqUMTPUyVXZJyl1Lbhb1nI5JNjFowMx-xSNwSS8wFZyiAUZsBeJHNrW-EE8Mw-IFnzveOdRsVWOWdd2hh7mhO8iXXBms-Co_y7eVM-r5fxrqLyuW6G2kcc4-U40KMKYEM8DU8cuSOUHE/s1600/IMG_3681.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidqUMTPUyVXZJyl1Lbhb1nI5JNjFowMx-xSNwSS8wFZyiAUZsBeJHNrW-EE8Mw-IFnzveOdRsVWOWdd2hh7mhO8iXXBms-Co_y7eVM-r5fxrqLyuW6G2kcc4-U40KMKYEM8DU8cuSOUHE/s400/IMG_3681.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682343430952821138" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidqUMTPUyVXZJyl1Lbhb1nI5JNjFowMx-xSNwSS8wFZyiAUZsBeJHNrW-EE8Mw-IFnzveOdRsVWOWdd2hh7mhO8iXXBms-Co_y7eVM-r5fxrqLyuW6G2kcc4-U40KMKYEM8DU8cuSOUHE/s1600/IMG_3681.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlqt0wo6unnby_UvP3uLrP4irVkUepVyDmcPhoyjC9LzXcACca0zPS06bGuDLkqNb2CRHNFml47ZnK35bJ6c9Vx2KSF-RNg0CEdSSoUwLRjRiQIoKtNAput0B40kRVMhU8i0xQ9TEHx4s/s1600/IMG_3712.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlqt0wo6unnby_UvP3uLrP4irVkUepVyDmcPhoyjC9LzXcACca0zPS06bGuDLkqNb2CRHNFml47ZnK35bJ6c9Vx2KSF-RNg0CEdSSoUwLRjRiQIoKtNAput0B40kRVMhU8i0xQ9TEHx4s/s400/IMG_3712.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682343193723668546" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlqt0wo6unnby_UvP3uLrP4irVkUepVyDmcPhoyjC9LzXcACca0zPS06bGuDLkqNb2CRHNFml47ZnK35bJ6c9Vx2KSF-RNg0CEdSSoUwLRjRiQIoKtNAput0B40kRVMhU8i0xQ9TEHx4s/s1600/IMG_3712.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>On the way out of town for a couple days we stopped at a floating market. The market we visited seemed to be Thailand's biggest tourist vacuum and something I recommend avoiding, unless you are looking for cheap tea shirts and tacky souvenirs.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg40ez2-OsacYvXNy7PWkoHqReZTZwhyphenhyphenYaesUBHFbg98yZ4FhrXfbE3cH0f__C-tQeRMogoBqtadXvMGEZC0mLVpX55qkxIKUiT-Wx2Qbihr3_i7mENvWa7hXVvRc37YKf7Zqtth6vVpig/s1600/IMG_3718.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg40ez2-OsacYvXNy7PWkoHqReZTZwhyphenhyphenYaesUBHFbg98yZ4FhrXfbE3cH0f__C-tQeRMogoBqtadXvMGEZC0mLVpX55qkxIKUiT-Wx2Qbihr3_i7mENvWa7hXVvRc37YKf7Zqtth6vVpig/s400/IMG_3718.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682342983240256642" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg40ez2-OsacYvXNy7PWkoHqReZTZwhyphenhyphenYaesUBHFbg98yZ4FhrXfbE3cH0f__C-tQeRMogoBqtadXvMGEZC0mLVpX55qkxIKUiT-Wx2Qbihr3_i7mENvWa7hXVvRc37YKf7Zqtth6vVpig/s1600/IMG_3718.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>We spent two nights in a tented camp 3 hours from Bangkok in the Kanchanaburi province. The camp is located on the infamous River Kwai, where the Japanese forced POW and constripted laborers to build the "Death Railway" to Burma during World War II.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDibIDuoRF11PAoMciQJYiAVOIvce0ngfKwCNonRqlEJT3VqyJYTGBpKEbELO1zShVgVEiDYYqnoPYM1anK6doz9LJxzxtj3uKj8hANrWQLDfhBnmRlJT02nej5wyODHcrDtf0IAQtSrQ/s1600/IMG_3716.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDibIDuoRF11PAoMciQJYiAVOIvce0ngfKwCNonRqlEJT3VqyJYTGBpKEbELO1zShVgVEiDYYqnoPYM1anK6doz9LJxzxtj3uKj8hANrWQLDfhBnmRlJT02nej5wyODHcrDtf0IAQtSrQ/s400/IMG_3716.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682342819073369650" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDibIDuoRF11PAoMciQJYiAVOIvce0ngfKwCNonRqlEJT3VqyJYTGBpKEbELO1zShVgVEiDYYqnoPYM1anK6doz9LJxzxtj3uKj8hANrWQLDfhBnmRlJT02nej5wyODHcrDtf0IAQtSrQ/s1600/IMG_3716.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwLR9XAKWlgQRGC-aj0HLys85ogf6iMF1NoVime5iMWnmcUQ85w4nnHapE94_svk-Nov8I6hHI4HSzYc8vHOYfz5Oi1UHVi_htLGM4kzekc_3ftM_Sefo38a1qggj0B7rQrX2430QZicw/s1600/IMG_3725.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwLR9XAKWlgQRGC-aj0HLys85ogf6iMF1NoVime5iMWnmcUQ85w4nnHapE94_svk-Nov8I6hHI4HSzYc8vHOYfz5Oi1UHVi_htLGM4kzekc_3ftM_Sefo38a1qggj0B7rQrX2430QZicw/s400/IMG_3725.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682342611950787746" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwLR9XAKWlgQRGC-aj0HLys85ogf6iMF1NoVime5iMWnmcUQ85w4nnHapE94_svk-Nov8I6hHI4HSzYc8vHOYfz5Oi1UHVi_htLGM4kzekc_3ftM_Sefo38a1qggj0B7rQrX2430QZicw/s1600/IMG_3725.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYXBZ1qaRpi36Bo6OgaY9odxOj2hJIYhXRFX0wsKjrmwSd8WQVbNhnEczLRH-jPh3wpMueU2tLA_ylQtfzmqfbeMHoBdX9rdVvNbFu8OOLik10cBfzXmaGWnaUxU9ShcwOite8E0Ma0ws/s1600/IMG_3730.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYXBZ1qaRpi36Bo6OgaY9odxOj2hJIYhXRFX0wsKjrmwSd8WQVbNhnEczLRH-jPh3wpMueU2tLA_ylQtfzmqfbeMHoBdX9rdVvNbFu8OOLik10cBfzXmaGWnaUxU9ShcwOite8E0Ma0ws/s400/IMG_3730.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682342433675347954" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYXBZ1qaRpi36Bo6OgaY9odxOj2hJIYhXRFX0wsKjrmwSd8WQVbNhnEczLRH-jPh3wpMueU2tLA_ylQtfzmqfbeMHoBdX9rdVvNbFu8OOLik10cBfzXmaGWnaUxU9ShcwOite8E0Ma0ws/s1600/IMG_3730.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>More nightmarish monkeys.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidTZmlqR1CjZdxQ9glRKrgXi5oC-py8bq-uXgAnfk0ds6nYUp67leZ8T6Y_i0BwhxIJcEzXJA57QP2LuALLj8tCLoA2NCFL6Rhbfeqp3tqR3AcnpDiAx-hHIRS9NjrPDbGyKdqfFsYfQQ/s1600/IMG_3753.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidTZmlqR1CjZdxQ9glRKrgXi5oC-py8bq-uXgAnfk0ds6nYUp67leZ8T6Y_i0BwhxIJcEzXJA57QP2LuALLj8tCLoA2NCFL6Rhbfeqp3tqR3AcnpDiAx-hHIRS9NjrPDbGyKdqfFsYfQQ/s400/IMG_3753.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682342156067160402" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidTZmlqR1CjZdxQ9glRKrgXi5oC-py8bq-uXgAnfk0ds6nYUp67leZ8T6Y_i0BwhxIJcEzXJA57QP2LuALLj8tCLoA2NCFL6Rhbfeqp3tqR3AcnpDiAx-hHIRS9NjrPDbGyKdqfFsYfQQ/s1600/IMG_3753.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>Our last night in Bangkok (and Thailand, and of our trip) we had a great meal in a quiet residential neighborhood near the royal palace.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS4WlzhKw2lwwuxpIltc1s0MBvgjATEOWFjAhXxDI0pkM1rbn8e_kJvLQm8LpDd3flru-EBcOwqwK_prBFlx-Gzq-Y_6FueSza3FIj0IxrpphDtGsjTRCOJCq-V5KVYrjh-isd6GhJTSo/s1600/IMG_3754.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS4WlzhKw2lwwuxpIltc1s0MBvgjATEOWFjAhXxDI0pkM1rbn8e_kJvLQm8LpDd3flru-EBcOwqwK_prBFlx-Gzq-Y_6FueSza3FIj0IxrpphDtGsjTRCOJCq-V5KVYrjh-isd6GhJTSo/s400/IMG_3754.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682341996439353026" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS4WlzhKw2lwwuxpIltc1s0MBvgjATEOWFjAhXxDI0pkM1rbn8e_kJvLQm8LpDd3flru-EBcOwqwK_prBFlx-Gzq-Y_6FueSza3FIj0IxrpphDtGsjTRCOJCq-V5KVYrjh-isd6GhJTSo/s1600/IMG_3754.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPGTi5iWZl7VAYlsdAVbrREu9IFwLF9rEAkFYrnD-WIms2O8RPvIa42TnohqQktVz1ByD9Sgh9TQktJvXt6BtK4K7ajbn31as8gumxR1-jioX5wFbJN_0Bm0XfeRH1CPp7eQ-1FXcsPz0/s1600/IMG_3756.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPGTi5iWZl7VAYlsdAVbrREu9IFwLF9rEAkFYrnD-WIms2O8RPvIa42TnohqQktVz1ByD9Sgh9TQktJvXt6BtK4K7ajbn31as8gumxR1-jioX5wFbJN_0Bm0XfeRH1CPp7eQ-1FXcsPz0/s400/IMG_3756.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682341863289189842" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPGTi5iWZl7VAYlsdAVbrREu9IFwLF9rEAkFYrnD-WIms2O8RPvIa42TnohqQktVz1ByD9Sgh9TQktJvXt6BtK4K7ajbn31as8gumxR1-jioX5wFbJN_0Bm0XfeRH1CPp7eQ-1FXcsPz0/s1600/IMG_3756.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>The restaurant, Chotechitr, had a lot of forign patrons, but turned out to be delicious nonetheless.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkJh5Kd9qDtydcqaNUifOJ2E2XsA412pYWpxWStTuUVMNCV-w5jSE_SswVddJHOo4gU1c_xNfkRjFJnpuil-i_WH3dQZ2Cx8HNo6AUUG5aF3qI5up9fnt_vZKVJc-5s-lZWc3ABnUfb1Q/s1600/IMG_3757.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkJh5Kd9qDtydcqaNUifOJ2E2XsA412pYWpxWStTuUVMNCV-w5jSE_SswVddJHOo4gU1c_xNfkRjFJnpuil-i_WH3dQZ2Cx8HNo6AUUG5aF3qI5up9fnt_vZKVJc-5s-lZWc3ABnUfb1Q/s400/IMG_3757.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682339660810283714" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkJh5Kd9qDtydcqaNUifOJ2E2XsA412pYWpxWStTuUVMNCV-w5jSE_SswVddJHOo4gU1c_xNfkRjFJnpuil-i_WH3dQZ2Cx8HNo6AUUG5aF3qI5up9fnt_vZKVJc-5s-lZWc3ABnUfb1Q/s1600/IMG_3757.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>Chicken with coconut flower.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyBJwz63maNB7uJwmVLz4KB6xXBh7WyEAGQUMDPyDZcMF4d1yoq5FhGj7-t3avK_tb2zUvrDIEOY_MDVVSYPsb4_mkRV7BVh90u40Uryv2zlGzwT1omqijMiuTZKnKuHP4gSNNBPHjVA4/s1600/IMG_3758.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyBJwz63maNB7uJwmVLz4KB6xXBh7WyEAGQUMDPyDZcMF4d1yoq5FhGj7-t3avK_tb2zUvrDIEOY_MDVVSYPsb4_mkRV7BVh90u40Uryv2zlGzwT1omqijMiuTZKnKuHP4gSNNBPHjVA4/s400/IMG_3758.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682339493785007138" /></a><br /></div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-62846470531481736062011-12-04T12:09:00.015-05:002011-12-04T13:02:00.144-05:00PHA NGA BAY & KO LANTA<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgko6Q8UnaXpdW1EuHeWagZkNr4eN9uC3wtwBevbqjcTUH8IRUqFLcFCHRfd1UzdEBM81FS5gnRLtUQiNKIlXRLLYCSVkEZO23fmdAYcVU-yHvc9jMRCKwlZ5S4JgIenjmotaqdwvEIYIE/s1600/IMG_3479.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgko6Q8UnaXpdW1EuHeWagZkNr4eN9uC3wtwBevbqjcTUH8IRUqFLcFCHRfd1UzdEBM81FS5gnRLtUQiNKIlXRLLYCSVkEZO23fmdAYcVU-yHvc9jMRCKwlZ5S4JgIenjmotaqdwvEIYIE/s400/IMG_3479.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682323134744402946" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">After weeks of travel all over Southeast Asia, with lots of movement and a pretty hectic schedule, we spent a week with friends sailing from Phuket around Pha Nga Bay, in the Andaman Sea. It was a very relaxing time, and a lot of fun. We stopped at Ko Hong, Railay, Had Khlong Dai (Ko Lanta), Hat Khlong Chak (Ko Lanta), Ko Phi Phi Don, Ko Phi Phi Leh, and one night off Phuket. These are not the most unknown corners of southern Thailand, but it was beautiful and fun, and we had one of the best meals of the trip at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ma-Ma-Klong/202326089802695">Ma Ma Klong</a> in Rawai on Phuket. I took a "break" and let my professional friends take most of the pictures, but here are a few. After soaking up the sun, it was time for some wild times in Bangkok... coming soon.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirWrca4D09IsNYcz7vMyTkVSvxZdXo_RPFIo1nN-o6jFg1_WXwdRc1J3VH4VAFEtxXKJy46kOAqGKe4tzSHiXGJSspCuEkiQoZ8rICfUrgTqK9F5YkLZz7R4mTxaVQETLUI89ik4OZpS8/s1600/IMG_3317.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirWrca4D09IsNYcz7vMyTkVSvxZdXo_RPFIo1nN-o6jFg1_WXwdRc1J3VH4VAFEtxXKJy46kOAqGKe4tzSHiXGJSspCuEkiQoZ8rICfUrgTqK9F5YkLZz7R4mTxaVQETLUI89ik4OZpS8/s400/IMG_3317.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682322752048440914" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu3sKa1tWO8vEpSsU7ziWxSersIi47sA6m4OPIWmLzaktT4khaHbyrMP738GiASeeWnEp0LKK2QQHyUP6Yx5in1eV2vRpq_8VN44fKguSdt6O6bpvYV0o66YD3gGffxI4l7awNGlcB9mo/s1600/IMG_3335.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu3sKa1tWO8vEpSsU7ziWxSersIi47sA6m4OPIWmLzaktT4khaHbyrMP738GiASeeWnEp0LKK2QQHyUP6Yx5in1eV2vRpq_8VN44fKguSdt6O6bpvYV0o66YD3gGffxI4l7awNGlcB9mo/s400/IMG_3335.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682322594997145826" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Spectacular kayaking at Ko Hong, where we spent the second night.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgu_oGXXzZu8DctvrSbrcKtE0_yKi8GV4JX9LkXDZJ_BOGpEhAOeyL-MlrB-Z0LnR_2ybDohLTRMkIqE4uMnmQY6efHxjvCKlKic1UKT7F9l9SSGuCrbR3CQF4ni9euf9Wt_GUif6zzX4/s1600/IMG_3345.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgu_oGXXzZu8DctvrSbrcKtE0_yKi8GV4JX9LkXDZJ_BOGpEhAOeyL-MlrB-Z0LnR_2ybDohLTRMkIqE4uMnmQY6efHxjvCKlKic1UKT7F9l9SSGuCrbR3CQF4ni9euf9Wt_GUif6zzX4/s400/IMG_3345.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682322455342542530" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESeqQ9WFCJAAB37qIrpuVHSn6XGxOaZSfVze54wzeOax9IPtuqa2EDMoxqCJEV74bi6IT6tGgx65bgiPOPDgEhmeIzl4xUxWqRkX3oOLMyiubrFwbGHFhUnMsUlQvHbtR0MD9hMNoy8I/s1600/IMG_3410.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESeqQ9WFCJAAB37qIrpuVHSn6XGxOaZSfVze54wzeOax9IPtuqa2EDMoxqCJEV74bi6IT6tGgx65bgiPOPDgEhmeIzl4xUxWqRkX3oOLMyiubrFwbGHFhUnMsUlQvHbtR0MD9hMNoy8I/s400/IMG_3410.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682322309793784530" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyaZXqNG0wDEOlN5CtXw5KpTmQLzoLRHZLhKYot3LO21f2albQJb2qLXTyddnciC46gXjLi9ZyOtpJ-bNDrAi4GOMiWm3N3RFZ-qoDq1_B6eRvTy3bJcuEpXhPR9ZPKhbnZpRkJdXau-w/s1600/IMG_3414.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyaZXqNG0wDEOlN5CtXw5KpTmQLzoLRHZLhKYot3LO21f2albQJb2qLXTyddnciC46gXjLi9ZyOtpJ-bNDrAi4GOMiWm3N3RFZ-qoDq1_B6eRvTy3bJcuEpXhPR9ZPKhbnZpRkJdXau-w/s400/IMG_3414.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682322122932206946" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmwm_kd7Re8-60_BkaCIFx-KU6Hs-bgnq_ZvL5CgY-Wokw9HZG00Psrs4_w-jXQtQsxqLP6ARM2HWuY9oWGZxbGeYCvTLTM2C7prxFrvKjXWSGifjqnjdrv2gXLFzsi0uNKbdF4oB7x7o/s1600/IMG_3458.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmwm_kd7Re8-60_BkaCIFx-KU6Hs-bgnq_ZvL5CgY-Wokw9HZG00Psrs4_w-jXQtQsxqLP6ARM2HWuY9oWGZxbGeYCvTLTM2C7prxFrvKjXWSGifjqnjdrv2gXLFzsi0uNKbdF4oB7x7o/s400/IMG_3458.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682321997771429490" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">One of our favorite spots, on the southern end of Ko Lanta. Pretty, quiet, and lush.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbr5CcN1VBhpQEgRchrvToDLJLXb4YJryYgBTSKvob9nsZnsCDrXv4-NyZCqOjSvuGfNXtg8ZZm-1RVdC652KPmMkfL5uCKo49b3d4qsxQNUPp2cVURX81Wr1fQUrxf4yxduP47-W0smc/s1600/IMG_3472.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbr5CcN1VBhpQEgRchrvToDLJLXb4YJryYgBTSKvob9nsZnsCDrXv4-NyZCqOjSvuGfNXtg8ZZm-1RVdC652KPmMkfL5uCKo49b3d4qsxQNUPp2cVURX81Wr1fQUrxf4yxduP47-W0smc/s400/IMG_3472.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682321840503641202" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrv3qoNpwXT0W-h-p-KWoFS7SaMxWnzOun6vN9tWOzqgXmxS-XPZmYKqHtECfzSh-ZCoDFO0NUx2RJUiE1owRwBX7DuEHvJkFRoqeBrCEwRmvyk8_yY3N5q2k9NYvfWpiPbRJpqz9Wrr8/s1600/IMG_3489.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrv3qoNpwXT0W-h-p-KWoFS7SaMxWnzOun6vN9tWOzqgXmxS-XPZmYKqHtECfzSh-ZCoDFO0NUx2RJUiE1owRwBX7DuEHvJkFRoqeBrCEwRmvyk8_yY3N5q2k9NYvfWpiPbRJpqz9Wrr8/s400/IMG_3489.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682321678728003906" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Ko Phi Phi Don, beautiful but crowded.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJGYTBW3qb63sFpgP0tQMAkUAfDJRGWSmDVv2v_mvO6yN76h2_vPKiWHKuK6-02EF5JksReX8CiK-pjmh6I9_cc8jYdyklqIydbpsNfZbkE26-IAa_XU4NU_-zwb-sJ8_bx2mcUO6kjJg/s1600/IMG_3508.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJGYTBW3qb63sFpgP0tQMAkUAfDJRGWSmDVv2v_mvO6yN76h2_vPKiWHKuK6-02EF5JksReX8CiK-pjmh6I9_cc8jYdyklqIydbpsNfZbkE26-IAa_XU4NU_-zwb-sJ8_bx2mcUO6kjJg/s400/IMG_3508.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682321533564185282" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Above is Ko Phi Phi Leh, where <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0163978/">The Beach</a> was filmed. It was crowded and Maya Bay, tucked inside this dramatic island, was filled with loud tourist boats during the day. Luckily we were able to stay the night after most people left. I slept out on the deck, under the stars, and at sunrise kayaked in to the famous beach. We were some of the first people on the shore and saw schools of fish, a shark, and had a quiet time swimming in the electric blue water of one of most beautiful places I have ever seen. We departed at 9am as the hoards arrived. Our captain lamented that this spot had been "discovered." Crowded or not, it was special.</div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-32784755240466351762011-11-21T09:00:00.001-05:002011-11-21T09:00:16.695-05:00CHANG MAI<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYdm_q-7p2vq4b2k8LsVzEYrgEQpw1fEqlfNd_ec5HM0vK2XTcbHwf4utFISpQ7SMd9vD_6foUzb_tcd0ap5VxIHq0ywB8xNFeeRVjZ2eR8e9meTczJ9_BuJUjvBuqeqmnZE7yef6eGnc/s1600/IMG_3153.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYdm_q-7p2vq4b2k8LsVzEYrgEQpw1fEqlfNd_ec5HM0vK2XTcbHwf4utFISpQ7SMd9vD_6foUzb_tcd0ap5VxIHq0ywB8xNFeeRVjZ2eR8e9meTczJ9_BuJUjvBuqeqmnZE7yef6eGnc/s400/IMG_3153.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677105053080525234" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Chang Mai is Thailand's second largest city and the former capital of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Tai</span>-Yuan kingdom of Lanna (as opposed to the southern <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Tai</span>-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Syam</span> kingdoms of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Sukhothai</span> and later <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Ayuthaya</span>). Lanna means Kingdom of a Million Rice Fields, and although Chang Mai is a large city, it feels green and manageable, surrounded by farmland, much of which is quickly being transformed into suburbs and shopping malls. The old part of the city is loaded with over 300 temples in an area 6 miles square. Buildings are not allowed to be built higher than the tallest temples and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">stupas</span>. It still has a bustle, but is a pleasant and highly walkable town.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwM_sb24imJF3HmBNgn06a8n_J2G9LC29DUnbVpnDvyogVaszi38ffdbqYhk8XhnpxAIzY6C_ndB58eiwN-GQfTjsC-BpK1kdDYJOuPRlTGtfRiahBRldkas0khH1isrb2Ea2HuNBPsaI/s1600/IMG_3101.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwM_sb24imJF3HmBNgn06a8n_J2G9LC29DUnbVpnDvyogVaszi38ffdbqYhk8XhnpxAIzY6C_ndB58eiwN-GQfTjsC-BpK1kdDYJOuPRlTGtfRiahBRldkas0khH1isrb2Ea2HuNBPsaI/s400/IMG_3101.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677104771154751442" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd3753UElkOVj7ysm43eH6g1ECaBuw6bsArfxpstkKMV0X4rDl4QF0dGpbNVjLBM1wqyI5LbdOx7uwk8m7f44O2ksR8gOrqO0AYprWm6ASuvTOEcpQ3FTiVCV78b0CCwJK04Emrn9U4K0/s400/IMG_3103.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677104448833315154" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyQL8azZa-fUGEQ6mlKGhCkK7XN-pfNEuCxQSEDInAKHHhOCH7kQY3YveoNlYO6bysdSxIpgP9ggPGwODwasQIDNPJpEVGyopomhZomFD-8PrxnIYss_amFGsuBG6KdqleTqWwuKSVzpI/s1600/IMG_3156.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyQL8azZa-fUGEQ6mlKGhCkK7XN-pfNEuCxQSEDInAKHHhOCH7kQY3YveoNlYO6bysdSxIpgP9ggPGwODwasQIDNPJpEVGyopomhZomFD-8PrxnIYss_amFGsuBG6KdqleTqWwuKSVzpI/s400/IMG_3156.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677104584871029378" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Lanna architecture is exquisite. There are some similarities with Lao temple design, but the flourishes and details, as well as the quality of craftsmanship, reaches elaborate new heights. Many temples are restored, but few were completely destroyed like they were in Laos. Lanna fell into alliances and wars with its neighbors (see <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Map-of-southeast-asia_1300_CE.png">this map</a> of the area in the 13<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">th</span> century for reference) and influences from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Sukhothai</span>, the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Shan</span> states, Burmese Ava, and beyond can be seen.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFB8hsg9SZJ78V3g3AisXoITyhwyjYY7G356mYcJl30GA-D8EPYXL26Vwo1bbqxJxb0ZGS7-H60KuSiyMYRNxRuyZqFDcgdTf39TB7z64txVupTqB_WnziZKyam2eG_y_uabKJGzqQn_g/s1600/IMG_3113.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFB8hsg9SZJ78V3g3AisXoITyhwyjYY7G356mYcJl30GA-D8EPYXL26Vwo1bbqxJxb0ZGS7-H60KuSiyMYRNxRuyZqFDcgdTf39TB7z64txVupTqB_WnziZKyam2eG_y_uabKJGzqQn_g/s400/IMG_3113.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677104264585955826" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Here, a temple built entirely out of teak. Despite quite a bit of logging over the centuries, the woods of Chang Mai province are in some of the best shape of all of Thailand, and beyond the rice paddies are beautiful forests and mountains. More on that in a moment.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgurCbvCW4GTg7xLSbrocW_XH1CZEhlCPz1l9x-Pu-1FQHoxwXoN0-Vx9veUMLX5PlOt5bVC207dwqE21kBxeyQaVlohF0uk1HXuzAVInUFSpRX0Ocw9baEmREnh3T1nF4OURBBIoswx50/s1600/IMG_3122.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgurCbvCW4GTg7xLSbrocW_XH1CZEhlCPz1l9x-Pu-1FQHoxwXoN0-Vx9veUMLX5PlOt5bVC207dwqE21kBxeyQaVlohF0uk1HXuzAVInUFSpRX0Ocw9baEmREnh3T1nF4OURBBIoswx50/s400/IMG_3122.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677104050153516786" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Another typical home converted into a museum. In this case, the Center for Lanna Architecture. This home from the 19<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">th</span> century shows traditional Lanna details in teak on the upper floors with a more European flair on the lower floors. The people of Thailand, in the face of colonialism, quickly adapted new technologies, fashions and political mechanisms which ended up keeping Thailand from becoming a British or French protectorate. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgePvVNo8j88FBOOa16Ffgd08IH1MscL2Es0KxlgLjZm0zV-fP9kUPC6tCedZ0hEvjkSVqLOgB9HfTkyiyyq_9JvwfpnPsA_Ckeu_H0GM1OT3cknpPY1ks0B4GjpoDVlO_YBBgQFjxsPzs/s1600/IMG_3121.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgePvVNo8j88FBOOa16Ffgd08IH1MscL2Es0KxlgLjZm0zV-fP9kUPC6tCedZ0hEvjkSVqLOgB9HfTkyiyyq_9JvwfpnPsA_Ckeu_H0GM1OT3cknpPY1ks0B4GjpoDVlO_YBBgQFjxsPzs/s400/IMG_3121.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677103846112475650" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJjtnnChCwBaCC5E2SalLigOk1fYNygFmbzxJGzquRhuhE0HMa4MugexWdswOXp1X7jC-2jbN42iXljrdvKY1oisK1H06UEvY9HltQOyfSGS99sUguF-ukidvEadvorvc22zs4FA8uiiw/s1600/IMG_3126.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJjtnnChCwBaCC5E2SalLigOk1fYNygFmbzxJGzquRhuhE0HMa4MugexWdswOXp1X7jC-2jbN42iXljrdvKY1oisK1H06UEvY9HltQOyfSGS99sUguF-ukidvEadvorvc22zs4FA8uiiw/s400/IMG_3126.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677103675860351314" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Chang Mai has a bit of an earthy, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">hippy</span>-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">ster</span> vibe. There is lots of organic produce, loose raw cotton clothing, and "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">namaste</span>" style bad art. There is an earlier tradition in the area for craftsmanship, carving, and furniture making, however. This interesting antiques and art shop, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Srivalee</span>, on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Ratchapakinai</span> road, was fantastic and I found all kinds of great textiles and wood carved antiques.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJNDitTYaMbSI_ajhGCD6nwMjMJKWsRGOWcQ7Q1YqesKjGB47NxiL-yzVM0qujPenFBq_EF8vxFI7sWyv-CpABOwnEnmn6CQZawe_77obKEhVoAQRtCem4YQNvIZLOPGxQkvTUTasM_Kk/s1600/IMG_3087.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJNDitTYaMbSI_ajhGCD6nwMjMJKWsRGOWcQ7Q1YqesKjGB47NxiL-yzVM0qujPenFBq_EF8vxFI7sWyv-CpABOwnEnmn6CQZawe_77obKEhVoAQRtCem4YQNvIZLOPGxQkvTUTasM_Kk/s400/IMG_3087.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677103241930478482" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">The number one draw to Chang Mai, however, has got to be the food. For the most part, it surpassed anything else we had during the earlier part of the trip (with the possible exception of a few meals in Vietnam). Not that it is a competition... we have had great food everywhere... just that in Chang Mai it was so varied and so new and so consistently great. Above, our guide Thong took us to his family's restaurant, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Laab</span> Lung Pan, on the outskirts of town. They specialize in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Laab</span>, or minced meats in a variety of spicy sauces.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIIlAfxBxA-18_si7OGxbrAHs8ZeYeZMHmSrIj8YwGU560CVXSLYAdQBvEoGP2ycKquFGEVTGIERy7TAGc0wcTl48OUyBGkKOaKSCj7bcZHPRxznby9ivIvSqsYo6bwB65eG9vcSs7eCU/s1600/IMG_3075.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIIlAfxBxA-18_si7OGxbrAHs8ZeYeZMHmSrIj8YwGU560CVXSLYAdQBvEoGP2ycKquFGEVTGIERy7TAGc0wcTl48OUyBGkKOaKSCj7bcZHPRxznby9ivIvSqsYo6bwB65eG9vcSs7eCU/s400/IMG_3075.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677103042533273346" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Thong cooked for us himself. So much food!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHvRCwe_0I9hzkAJMhKPx3VJOfjQlwzU2bPWCzWIHJgCRF6Tl77Bxmw-iwSKehHlkzmnp-383p2eFqzsI6CEwgF7_6DX2xC4mai7sXbnyE7FY2Cb07PKzvyU9KGwCOlNL4u3kdMkiMcqI/s1600/IMG_3079.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHvRCwe_0I9hzkAJMhKPx3VJOfjQlwzU2bPWCzWIHJgCRF6Tl77Bxmw-iwSKehHlkzmnp-383p2eFqzsI6CEwgF7_6DX2xC4mai7sXbnyE7FY2Cb07PKzvyU9KGwCOlNL4u3kdMkiMcqI/s400/IMG_3079.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677102901030516370" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Tom yum <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">kai</span> with chicken and banana flower.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyK8PYcCg6Ad8FCHO_ZRj4pGbudso6dwNLHKwZJTce476F2sUPGlNwJchTn4sJx-Z5mP4vT75N5RQTwDBQ9K0CDjDSD0BZyACQbSfiF3qs6xUTYO-EJaBU6M7UQ48t9JRUPdrahuGz2K4/s1600/IMG_3081.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyK8PYcCg6Ad8FCHO_ZRj4pGbudso6dwNLHKwZJTce476F2sUPGlNwJchTn4sJx-Z5mP4vT75N5RQTwDBQ9K0CDjDSD0BZyACQbSfiF3qs6xUTYO-EJaBU6M7UQ48t9JRUPdrahuGz2K4/s400/IMG_3081.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677102789878543154" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Laab</span>! Chicken, pork, gang <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">aum</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">nuam</span> (buffalo), <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">isan</span> (NE Thai with pork & beef), and the local specialty, gang um mu (pork with 16 different spices). Chang Mai was on the southern spur of the Silk Road for much of its history, and the flavors here reflect an ability to get all kinds of ingredients from the sea to the mountains, and China to India to Indonesia. Incredible.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8IY0WTOCwAkQzecUrvAj1R6LSisjF2474hJ1N7u8QbkiAhQx_ycvnwiZvN6cBJJ3Dpaxz_XAT6hTHpynH7WDG8V8SZXOLvjIGSOK_DoyUlCBmRH9k0tqBE0aKkkbwYUshfnnfCQKDtug/s1600/IMG_3083.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8IY0WTOCwAkQzecUrvAj1R6LSisjF2474hJ1N7u8QbkiAhQx_ycvnwiZvN6cBJJ3Dpaxz_XAT6hTHpynH7WDG8V8SZXOLvjIGSOK_DoyUlCBmRH9k0tqBE0aKkkbwYUshfnnfCQKDtug/s400/IMG_3083.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677102651458508450" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">And for dessert, freshly fried bamboo worms. Our new favorite snack.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimUfcEgIh1V2oOm8hcXU5Jmix5QCUBuHvxh_jAVGmmAT88ZA0JUtfploitlQk62VJOQN_WHDo1DfmY4E1ac-P5FMtQ4QANyhcNsfTQotcpjnYCLf-KSyxhpzzq-QKHD9ZWwaO4F8GCses/s1600/IMG_3125.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimUfcEgIh1V2oOm8hcXU5Jmix5QCUBuHvxh_jAVGmmAT88ZA0JUtfploitlQk62VJOQN_WHDo1DfmY4E1ac-P5FMtQ4QANyhcNsfTQotcpjnYCLf-KSyxhpzzq-QKHD9ZWwaO4F8GCses/s400/IMG_3125.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677102506823097410" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">We also had delicious mango with sweet sticky rice.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD2Z6Zfe6V-nnfqOjVHV8MeOOEGdHh00hdIgA8_-CWacry6OiByDcOjFxdiHa1cO0AQJaOSLdiyaWwRLDZPPfQLJKlAI6I1HxlSdilIlfNBn5msAgvf8xC5MSZVseo6SVu6OVMlHZDqzM/s1600/IMG_3128.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD2Z6Zfe6V-nnfqOjVHV8MeOOEGdHh00hdIgA8_-CWacry6OiByDcOjFxdiHa1cO0AQJaOSLdiyaWwRLDZPPfQLJKlAI6I1HxlSdilIlfNBn5msAgvf8xC5MSZVseo6SVu6OVMlHZDqzM/s400/IMG_3128.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677102347531394594" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Sick of all the northern Thai delicacies (just kidding) we opted for a southern Thai restaurant one afternoon. It showcased totally different flavors. Above, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">panang</span> curry, gang <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">dai</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">pla</span> (fish organ soup), catfish curry, green <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">curry</span> with buffalo, pork curry and fried pork with sugar cane.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjskJOXe34uejkVF8mvsBVJjC5cR4tsCjLhKv7n75Z-yRQFkJfZ0gpj8ZmrxE1PlBCSK8opLD_4XoUJJNwxbBr_lG21JZ1wnQS0J54-WjRUx3pV-nvhMG-DYVXA6gJnI_aXZn-5pWynoqU/s1600/IMG_3179.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjskJOXe34uejkVF8mvsBVJjC5cR4tsCjLhKv7n75Z-yRQFkJfZ0gpj8ZmrxE1PlBCSK8opLD_4XoUJJNwxbBr_lG21JZ1wnQS0J54-WjRUx3pV-nvhMG-DYVXA6gJnI_aXZn-5pWynoqU/s400/IMG_3179.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677102178147829234" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">My husband's favorite restaurant, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">Somtam</span>, was visited twice at its pretty riverside location.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5NmHcc8sd_1CEhXhRBKtdb39iDi44D8JU_9KChqELu9eulsljfHjb1VL3qJ6PJ0KRnPwzFEyVdDLMZ1y5Ux6Mh1nwVqjo0GvlaKT5X1ykm5n0xFzYz514Nb0Hb_MsGUP8KviIfDH-X6k/s1600/IMG_3176.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5NmHcc8sd_1CEhXhRBKtdb39iDi44D8JU_9KChqELu9eulsljfHjb1VL3qJ6PJ0KRnPwzFEyVdDLMZ1y5Ux6Mh1nwVqjo0GvlaKT5X1ykm5n0xFzYz514Nb0Hb_MsGUP8KviIfDH-X6k/s400/IMG_3176.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677102012868318802" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">Khow</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">soi</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">ruam</span>. The world's most delicious combination of noodles, curry, coconut, and chicken. I don't know what they do to this to make it so amazing, but we devoured ours.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo7iWAq4ACBbEGX8iCVlWfP3XP0E8Cl53ZzNP6c9v7ERdoAEOASCZQSTN9fP5V0gT6JySKPgt8rWc2endbFStDeKv4tJNB4EutKxjaIaIynwM4OOVXMc9Q1sa5y0WRpkW-e5BV641TEsg/s1600/IMG_3177.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo7iWAq4ACBbEGX8iCVlWfP3XP0E8Cl53ZzNP6c9v7ERdoAEOASCZQSTN9fP5V0gT6JySKPgt8rWc2endbFStDeKv4tJNB4EutKxjaIaIynwM4OOVXMc9Q1sa5y0WRpkW-e5BV641TEsg/s400/IMG_3177.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677101898359538338" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Two types of papaya salad: <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">Somtam</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31">tod</span>, at bottom, and tam <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_32">kong</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_33">tod</span>, at top. Tam <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_34">kong</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_35">tod</span> is sliced green papaya with crispy river shrimp and peanuts. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_36">Somtam</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_37">tod</span> is crispy papaya with the restaurant's special sauce. They were even better when mixed together.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheu6vZtwXXYNXwqnhPu6BDnzKlPGyMm16V8dyflg8pogDSHDsMaQ_gh8mpOBFw_pJ-8WVt_F8Y2k7HryVs_bH8UovSXIdznBB_GMTkFpdAWeeNoamEJkHSEJe87ziDRLEd0jUxZ9ctGh8/s1600/IMG_3223.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheu6vZtwXXYNXwqnhPu6BDnzKlPGyMm16V8dyflg8pogDSHDsMaQ_gh8mpOBFw_pJ-8WVt_F8Y2k7HryVs_bH8UovSXIdznBB_GMTkFpdAWeeNoamEJkHSEJe87ziDRLEd0jUxZ9ctGh8/s400/IMG_3223.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677101687049704706" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Tap <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_38">tim</span>, or steamed snapper from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_39">Pla</span> Po <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_40">Pak</span> Sod restaurant, also on the outskirts of town.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWMoG_MWbL_L4My3vQTsWGuhXJk5xJtsr0J9nr_Av5dz1XVjLcwOVHr2b_Tw1rLDfqcIIIUJ7Q0ggoD4ggFeT-7eUXimlBDuHSQFUJdsZMCEpCdTdRyai8bw8LJw-Veb-NH9B-plhFbU0/s1600/IMG_3225.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWMoG_MWbL_L4My3vQTsWGuhXJk5xJtsr0J9nr_Av5dz1XVjLcwOVHr2b_Tw1rLDfqcIIIUJ7Q0ggoD4ggFeT-7eUXimlBDuHSQFUJdsZMCEpCdTdRyai8bw8LJw-Veb-NH9B-plhFbU0/s400/IMG_3225.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677101536398371858" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Pad <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_41">cha</span>, or spicy snapper with red chili paste and vegetables.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge1BWPpt-ldbsiJJvy9MLRivnlc-qoEpp_OA0bSQJ85ALd1Fd8Ry_Dut2S-mzG0hjB_gqlKz2SllpQvaq2gJ7nmeRw1KHc1uf7SVqWQSI6bT-zWp3iZw8rHgw3qSFd5HxjVBN94Y4PO_0/s1600/IMG_3226.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge1BWPpt-ldbsiJJvy9MLRivnlc-qoEpp_OA0bSQJ85ALd1Fd8Ry_Dut2S-mzG0hjB_gqlKz2SllpQvaq2gJ7nmeRw1KHc1uf7SVqWQSI6bT-zWp3iZw8rHgw3qSFd5HxjVBN94Y4PO_0/s400/IMG_3226.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677101392017187170" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">And a southern import, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_42">pu</span> sen, or crab with glass noodles.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Y-GRV4_wppWzVyKS1G_OR4Lgwxid04SYE-ZYUf4Jh8ufb5Oe0JSBU85YZLFHGEuLwU_oJnwWmCETB5IEU5-Z15kuQxhnJ4Xzag4tCjShM_rv9wz8yMUYNUuUpGPx9SzVa677GmVnCeI/s1600/IMG_3202.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Y-GRV4_wppWzVyKS1G_OR4Lgwxid04SYE-ZYUf4Jh8ufb5Oe0JSBU85YZLFHGEuLwU_oJnwWmCETB5IEU5-Z15kuQxhnJ4Xzag4tCjShM_rv9wz8yMUYNUuUpGPx9SzVa677GmVnCeI/s400/IMG_3202.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677101153477693906" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">We also saw an impressive amount of food at the famous Chang Mai <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_43">night market</span>.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiucqbN2ykk6PxPiBOlxN1nzz7cesjpvDMANzhgPABT-cruLE70LzFeCZviwl0C1-g4_jjGPYkKMh4CO3dJZ4J-xbp6HdKXhamGWrvIBMV9ZqqgG2eO6e4DGaWpPTCjPCo0TKZpiaCJ5hk/s1600/IMG_3196.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiucqbN2ykk6PxPiBOlxN1nzz7cesjpvDMANzhgPABT-cruLE70LzFeCZviwl0C1-g4_jjGPYkKMh4CO3dJZ4J-xbp6HdKXhamGWrvIBMV9ZqqgG2eO6e4DGaWpPTCjPCo0TKZpiaCJ5hk/s400/IMG_3196.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677100986885754722" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksSS-VK6TFhyKL5QBPhcNDwE5Ch0J4Wfw5BBTiRXspkRtBbiyRFQ10OCKPwTpvj0zkxmQS4n7rnGJ4HwQnm79HLJBjOqU8oK5rkQ_Zd6IA-HRzJHEko075_Y5n2ypf0k_S8DbbH02PIM/s1600/IMG_3199.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksSS-VK6TFhyKL5QBPhcNDwE5Ch0J4Wfw5BBTiRXspkRtBbiyRFQ10OCKPwTpvj0zkxmQS4n7rnGJ4HwQnm79HLJBjOqU8oK5rkQ_Zd6IA-HRzJHEko075_Y5n2ypf0k_S8DbbH02PIM/s400/IMG_3199.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677100857040671506" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge3vh6gglS13TxYx4KsoiS0tCjgcLp5dq-hwm9rGNKQcx0Rpe4iU9HQfgwRd3SnVN3Ba7SnIG4Rny1FiwhFHS6IKQhNZvsT6K0QT7UYsvkNYdU79NUhHvxSViXX3Zm_LiSjuhsabTsuig/s1600/IMG_3203.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge3vh6gglS13TxYx4KsoiS0tCjgcLp5dq-hwm9rGNKQcx0Rpe4iU9HQfgwRd3SnVN3Ba7SnIG4Rny1FiwhFHS6IKQhNZvsT6K0QT7UYsvkNYdU79NUhHvxSViXX3Zm_LiSjuhsabTsuig/s400/IMG_3203.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677100719766746098" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRcWUiASUZjXyy7n1QgzdcbpaX4tZRCRzouI87aaPXQR1SxVADDIjTVf-UG3Q8t1M4YBQV1urfVuXoJRZPa9oL4-LCHdgABcUwOEFenHWp1CFIm1rldqNFulbeXaU-T18fPX5PKlDr9ZA/s1600/IMG_3208.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRcWUiASUZjXyy7n1QgzdcbpaX4tZRCRzouI87aaPXQR1SxVADDIjTVf-UG3Q8t1M4YBQV1urfVuXoJRZPa9oL4-LCHdgABcUwOEFenHWp1CFIm1rldqNFulbeXaU-T18fPX5PKlDr9ZA/s400/IMG_3208.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677100585820651282" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1EIZbJgjqkWdSqQlwTx1IxYpcnze-0wNAOaGpMh_-0B0KfaRfNHH2AsyGr3xUiwNEe2Kri21PvT7QL1ssEAlCr0IbK0zzwhVh5BPaYb3oRrpINhIT8jbGJ-QW41t8h0qhFm_W-yO_imU/s1600/IMG_3198.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1EIZbJgjqkWdSqQlwTx1IxYpcnze-0wNAOaGpMh_-0B0KfaRfNHH2AsyGr3xUiwNEe2Kri21PvT7QL1ssEAlCr0IbK0zzwhVh5BPaYb3oRrpINhIT8jbGJ-QW41t8h0qhFm_W-yO_imU/s400/IMG_3198.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677100425677528082" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">We were full, but tried this delicious grilled banana.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOHZKYmhTwXWtuhIS6qhYmOX3bwtVFB_iymoChL1c6UhsCYETY4vP4Cri6zULW68z3hEf6J5-Fj9r8HZwWK8k4wwqOL5lxEpCuvMLmq8qN14DvCkt2bMxplIT8OV8Zc1lYeyB6g8Gc7Ac/s1600/IMG_3231.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOHZKYmhTwXWtuhIS6qhYmOX3bwtVFB_iymoChL1c6UhsCYETY4vP4Cri6zULW68z3hEf6J5-Fj9r8HZwWK8k4wwqOL5lxEpCuvMLmq8qN14DvCkt2bMxplIT8OV8Zc1lYeyB6g8Gc7Ac/s400/IMG_3231.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677100189646201538" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">The nature surrounding the city is also not to be missed. One day we drove up to Thailand's highest mountain, an 8,500 foot high peak that is part of the Himalayan mountain chain. The weather on top was actually really cool, and the plant life almost alpine like.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQngxkSR12aU0oPw4iBHkH9OnGy-AqhpS5ucRtG8XsyD5aUiJRJZcZ0BKtVe5aRXlMdQvZfAK7Wsho9Z24LV4gCSR_dVFPJtsrXZh4qJgDRNg_dINmYzErRRnMQUFbtRMVPgx8337-EEw/s1600/IMG_3242.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQngxkSR12aU0oPw4iBHkH9OnGy-AqhpS5ucRtG8XsyD5aUiJRJZcZ0BKtVe5aRXlMdQvZfAK7Wsho9Z24LV4gCSR_dVFPJtsrXZh4qJgDRNg_dINmYzErRRnMQUFbtRMVPgx8337-EEw/s400/IMG_3242.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677100058537936306" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSP3hQj3qEXEkkAR30J-hcETIS_wCq00r-tldThvuXDr179BvZAUZYaqZRcY2ItPnL-fr8plom3HNyRtw73X7YVMhyphenhyphen5E-zP6aaz9VcnrwidiCagbKRSfObLgq0_wHWU2rRyn9JOgDjXpk/s1600/IMG_3246.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSP3hQj3qEXEkkAR30J-hcETIS_wCq00r-tldThvuXDr179BvZAUZYaqZRcY2ItPnL-fr8plom3HNyRtw73X7YVMhyphenhyphen5E-zP6aaz9VcnrwidiCagbKRSfObLgq0_wHWU2rRyn9JOgDjXpk/s400/IMG_3246.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677099921001519634" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">We hiked around, past a number of waterwalls and through flower farms deep in the woods that used to be opium plantations. The Kingdom of a Million Rice Fields really was impressive in its culture, nature, food and architecture. I am so curious to compare it to Bangkok and central Thailand, as well as the Malay-influenced south, where we are headed next. There will be a lag in posts, as I will be off the grid completely for the next week. Until then!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ZPEB8ES9bWPl0RxXR6cnRYAcPYRoZx-Uu7dzobPRNGgDFctPgbh-Ch6jeivJixt-etTOXl0ez7dSqyIudbylWshQU5jGZY93ihHISLZsjWfFasb8ZwCPO-QcA6DWd_vysJST0NOPpF4/s1600/IMG_3276.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ZPEB8ES9bWPl0RxXR6cnRYAcPYRoZx-Uu7dzobPRNGgDFctPgbh-Ch6jeivJixt-etTOXl0ez7dSqyIudbylWshQU5jGZY93ihHISLZsjWfFasb8ZwCPO-QcA6DWd_vysJST0NOPpF4/s400/IMG_3276.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677099790130152866" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhMVW5Nmw_KNqS219iHdTWrRy7f1viiE7rolioO17pInZ86qShBJsscXyFK8Jgts_RbJTmhfgg4SBnrugh5WJRhkk3f7VwL0undEEZF2KSVP4ns-y2c8P7oI12cJ0Ylm8tdzM5IS35owY/s1600/IMG_3281.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhMVW5Nmw_KNqS219iHdTWrRy7f1viiE7rolioO17pInZ86qShBJsscXyFK8Jgts_RbJTmhfgg4SBnrugh5WJRhkk3f7VwL0undEEZF2KSVP4ns-y2c8P7oI12cJ0Ylm8tdzM5IS35owY/s400/IMG_3281.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677099658067467154" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmv6ItVOKtkoPoXBfENfrqhun5S0wLJcC-op09hUQJWuo-ZJqi3nvKmeryMFP0i-nOf-7FXhxWL9rJAH9i8XkChjz4aO2c_8sgfYzAqv0SulijyhPrXo7da5rHDAlyUiXngwTApwmV4LE/s1600/IMG_3301.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmv6ItVOKtkoPoXBfENfrqhun5S0wLJcC-op09hUQJWuo-ZJqi3nvKmeryMFP0i-nOf-7FXhxWL9rJAH9i8XkChjz4aO2c_8sgfYzAqv0SulijyhPrXo7da5rHDAlyUiXngwTApwmV4LE/s400/IMG_3301.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677099474618027714" /></a></div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-82917967212664622742011-11-20T06:56:00.025-05:002011-11-20T10:03:09.966-05:00GOLDEN TRIANGLE<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ywmpcH2SDTAmr13KSVsk53-Au654Cs_5t2RccOQjoESq7F1bkfhs9j5X7t19Q_0ooDvCzT8dn2aLTx9Bx1srFL3vPqaENSxpfidNhN6eb9uAE12awreuGdWZ3BZcBwhuNEfAm3Lngvw/s1600/IMG_3066.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ywmpcH2SDTAmr13KSVsk53-Au654Cs_5t2RccOQjoESq7F1bkfhs9j5X7t19Q_0ooDvCzT8dn2aLTx9Bx1srFL3vPqaENSxpfidNhN6eb9uAE12awreuGdWZ3BZcBwhuNEfAm3Lngvw/s400/IMG_3066.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677053389177270514" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">The term 'Golden Triangle' conjures up images of elephant armies, gilded parasols, exotic spices, and the illicit opium trade. This is the Golden Triangle of the past... long gone. Today, this former undeveloped region that overlaps northwest Laos, northeast Thailand and the remote <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Shan</span> province of Myanmar, is a land of luxury tourist resorts (Thailand), flashy Chinese-built casinos (Laos), and illicit methamphetamine smuggling (Myanmar). It is beautiful county, inhabited by several hill tribes as well as lowland Lao-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Loum</span> (ethnic <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Tai</span>-Lao), northern Thai (ethnic <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Tai</span>-Yuan) and many Chinese from the Yunnan province, just a few miles to the north. It is mountainous and chilly, and was our first stop in Thailand.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTyxWuJ5lOcngl0QfMp3FhYBBdl0QNR2HUzS-c_f1Wm7hM-dDfrKcmYXO_un6qUjRLEYCiiB_BRcAwol2lANblXjL5hpIyZSvg8O-3XxoDyzuJhpFMl4v86VTzECPgMX2sYoBQPi1wNi8/s400/IMG_2959.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677049996764730450" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Behold, the triangle: Thailand in the foreground, Laos to the right, Myanmar to the left. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNrAsMu7j5KDj5AYUnTfiSpDpzo94E6QwXq01pEEpo9x770rLtdikatc0UO72DAJu-hA_s0-lkS-SpcH4f1Mp7CdV4b9ATUtCqPrAauxncdvxng2PdshcCq5b7SOyl7vOdqyoJEKNH8yo/s400/IMG_2969.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677049834328286626" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">After three weeks in (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">de</span> facto) former communist, war torn, and so-called "developing" nations, it was a real shock to cross the Mekong into VERY developed, commercial Thailand. The contrast was incredible. You can really see what a difference decades as America's capitalist bulwark against Southeast Asian communism makes. Billboards, automobile traffic, and a tourist infrastructure that sometimes feels like <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Las</span> Vegas pulled us back into the 21st century after sleepy Laos. Don't get me wrong... Thailand is fantastic and beautiful... it is just very evident that it is part of the first world.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdhYDHrw9JJ37duRe9Iv01t4ErFslnbKKOr9yJQcyx1gGAwbm-lxNvW7Qvf6hDG2OjQafqXndZcQgcsyZlobhao4JcRFePFenjZ3h1CLFE3HHG3iMHx7Xd3VgUFci4RwltpaLBsp8Mm1U/s400/IMG_2935.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677051666927955010" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">One other major difference is the food. Whereas Laos and Cambodia had a somewhat limited selection of dishes and lots of consistent but delicious simplicity, Thailand offers a huge variety of regional dishes with complex and varied ingredients. Above, the night market in Chang <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Rai</span>, the largest city in Thailand's northernmost province.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqfdKVukxr4o0FY8A5m1ZLlNw_ASp3iwbITAEcB53Lt2TyFIXLGwmwM9bgXCO6jsBS_eWszbxDlCMt2AGOeqSL2sGKOMRN4cpn81_He5NR1heQgYTOKRj-W9ySs0Kv6Ki0ggejQ8bmNus/s400/IMG_2931.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677052389688682690" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">An insanely good lemongrass salad with tiny crispy river shrimp and thinly sliced lemongrass. Below that is a timid pork dish and to the lower left, deep fried frog's legs.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUVHuA92FnO6yR4MrBJwHWmnZhf1cfJwLNLjhpWsGWvnCNU9Wr_vn3sUXGJUSrMbYgeBm_JEU5ZCyNXn-A2kT4xvkPi8rhMMjx_ivNrKn1T5PQtjO9gLbJQ5k_ofsNg4oq8PiloNO56Kc/s400/IMG_2951.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677050608070945794" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Freshwater clams in chili sauce.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPn_teEoAAISqI_JkMIl2C6InrrBrC3GAYw5U5ZUT_C96LGztJ1LaNGAWx0X_Mfd5djO0G9ycS3RCD-mmHG0tYiYx5NRFJDqjpGraFrNSxUbuD-R11OhHoEFfRu3DX29D5N40JLJrDNG0/s400/IMG_2953.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677050350809853170" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Sauteed morning glory with chilies.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6K5M40QphmJLpGyReHpIlKSUElFT1oT9Y92t6Dk0aIl2z0eltiHG_1B8BNMhOHIAIqg1WTWQmUGG2tRds08g0HTsyv4z5D8CVYga4f7alGFtXoKpuPeTJ3jLXT2HZjtfltTZq-pOdJg/s400/IMG_2933.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677052064788629042" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And the most delicious coconut ice cream I have ever had. It is a Chang <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Rai</span> specialty.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilJQQwM0vhv2CuYQ8PP_BeZAg0h-thzqgn-rQkzdtbh6myWTZh2Pez-Ub7XZAfGRb23BFgR2FtEDToB7pol2XUZC3QuuvIdWiYugGaxbXa_BeI8OPEx4iY_aMXv049Y0niCfAFfdsuL9o/s400/IMG_2936.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677051281474998994" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And some more... exotic treats. From upper left to lower right: fried grasshopper, fried cricket, fried grubs, (lower row) fried grasshopper, fried Bully, fried grubs and (cut off on the end) fried bamboo worms. We both tried the crickets and the bamboo worms, which were actually delicious, especially with a cold Chang beer. I also got bold and tried the big, roach-like fried bully. It was something like eating a shrimp that is 90% shell and 10% hot grease. Interesting, for sure, and something our guide had not even tried before.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyN05TegzDfb9r9sUZfeZJ6FdeAf3i1Atd8Phaa316zqEdNbLMWHd3hm9Hcha1E3m_FuUE8gqc34GjvR61NhfqomFWDvKzfTBKBBJLMBuogTx_R0FtJXLdEt_AbCQL5JpBLlqN5tIoMlk/s400/IMG_2924.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677052788116498050" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Chang <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Rai</span> was once the capital of an early Thai kingdom or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">muang</span>. All of northern Thailand, and especially Chang <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Rai</span> province, shares a common ethnic and cultural connection to much of Laos. Like Laos, the area was once inhabited by <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Indic</span> civilizations. The Khmer (in the case of southern Laos and southern/ eastern Thailand) and Mon (in the case of central and northern Thailand as well as parts of Burma) ethnic groups <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">pre</span>-date the ethnic <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Tai</span> people who make up the majority of Thailand and Laos today. In the first <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">millenium</span> AD, various <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Tai</span> ethnic groups arrived from what is now southern China. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Tai</span>-Lao settled in the Mekong River valley and eventually eastern Thailand. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Tai</span>-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Syam</span> settled in the Mae <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Nom</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Chao</span> River valley and lowlands of central Thailand, and the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Tai</span>-Yuan settled in what is now northern Thailand. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Tai</span>-Yuan eventually formed the kingdom on Lanna, with ties to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">Luang</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">Prabang</span> to the east, alliances with the Siamese (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">Tai</span>-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">Syam</span>) in the south, and held under occupation by the Burmese for nearly 200 years during the 16<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">th</span> to 18<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">th</span> centuries. Lanna did not become a part of Thailand officially until before World War II.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioPm3Y08bb0y-ZmF7X0p-vDlR8IAY51Nzrvk3sT1z45o20NNQq1SWgmvmvp2gbyjOCD4MF3RIkJ1cqmoEjl784n3gf0G9MsYhpO31n7dW2ATm6HDr8Onk3h_ArSrAQcp6bdiR1mvZUOC4/s1600/IMG_2957.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioPm3Y08bb0y-ZmF7X0p-vDlR8IAY51Nzrvk3sT1z45o20NNQq1SWgmvmvp2gbyjOCD4MF3RIkJ1cqmoEjl784n3gf0G9MsYhpO31n7dW2ATm6HDr8Onk3h_ArSrAQcp6bdiR1mvZUOC4/s400/IMG_2957.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677050140697471586" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Lanna has its own cuisine, dialect, and architecture that have influenced and been influenced by the surrounding cultures of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">Luang</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">Prabang</span>, Siam and Burma.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVj2vrPzD3GFvSb-VCFzouwZg4DDRoNVzAv1Sk024R3VC0ac4my7VDqqhTGWtNWoRH1zmZ0WW1Hpl2BzejKt9_ElmhBeF68oR-xgq8LSmksXxyHHWZ5WNCk61nuZ-ZOA657zZTOeImzL0/s1600/IMG_2974.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVj2vrPzD3GFvSb-VCFzouwZg4DDRoNVzAv1Sk024R3VC0ac4my7VDqqhTGWtNWoRH1zmZ0WW1Hpl2BzejKt9_ElmhBeF68oR-xgq8LSmksXxyHHWZ5WNCk61nuZ-ZOA657zZTOeImzL0/s400/IMG_2974.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677049596942272866" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Partly to extend our 15-day overland visas, and partly out of curiosity, we crossed the border into Myanmar for an hour or so. Even in the border town of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31">Tachileik</span>, which we were not allowed to travel beyond (our passports were held by immigration at their office during our visit) you could sense the differences between Thailand and Myanmar. Coincidentally, because of the country's recent move towards a more open society, Myanmar is in the news quite a bit lately. They are going to be given the chairmanship of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_32">ASEAN</span>, opposition leader <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_33">Aung</span> San <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_34">Suu</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_35">Kyi</span> will be participating in the next election, and Secretary of State Clinton is planning to visit next month. There is a lot of hope this will lead to democratic reforms that will allow the oppressed people of Myanmar to help move their nation out of isolation. After visiting much of the rest of this region, Myanmar has moved to the top of the list of places to see as it opens up to the outside world after decades of brutal rule by military junta.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT9h4oowsn32b5nMDXqjzA4vmi-Z4bfYSNXsqlLc_Ebbe5b9TlGwl4uB_WKFO1pOqg3Gj1HmnxzN1KdHpZfXXvK1ax1yhMVjFaQp4aBkKToFb84RSdQ8l8_0sz5rd97NtLujRn84dgCWY/s1600/IMG_2978.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT9h4oowsn32b5nMDXqjzA4vmi-Z4bfYSNXsqlLc_Ebbe5b9TlGwl4uB_WKFO1pOqg3Gj1HmnxzN1KdHpZfXXvK1ax1yhMVjFaQp4aBkKToFb84RSdQ8l8_0sz5rd97NtLujRn84dgCWY/s400/IMG_2978.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677049398942422514" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">A glimpse of Myanmar (or Burma, if you prefer).</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlTgWgraVK4ui9_q69cv7ao49OHXAlwXxQoeksqb8ybmFWvMa8dtMI89XIe-bHL0-bZsgzkt05aZGkHFRtq3ElZu9B__HUHG0SFkmfLc_CZAukddjA1bLMh8TIwR3p-fYHWVumyC4KIcY/s1600/IMG_2981.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlTgWgraVK4ui9_q69cv7ao49OHXAlwXxQoeksqb8ybmFWvMa8dtMI89XIe-bHL0-bZsgzkt05aZGkHFRtq3ElZu9B__HUHG0SFkmfLc_CZAukddjA1bLMh8TIwR3p-fYHWVumyC4KIcY/s400/IMG_2981.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677049218424415730" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Back on the Thai side of the border.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6GGrao1EwWk0ZevzswxQVNdNE00pTXMJLjAXhlpf6PY65nohrDMNOkixnEUjYwEB8edx_zHkiI-iK6vlvrnG1VxAKpkRZhfcctEw_4R7_CKRLMKdq0wjDxQ6HOpXfmnNHQweHJhKph4c/s1600/IMG_3044.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6GGrao1EwWk0ZevzswxQVNdNE00pTXMJLjAXhlpf6PY65nohrDMNOkixnEUjYwEB8edx_zHkiI-iK6vlvrnG1VxAKpkRZhfcctEw_4R7_CKRLMKdq0wjDxQ6HOpXfmnNHQweHJhKph4c/s400/IMG_3044.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677048979859982962" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">The Golden Triangle was originally named for the area's former number one cash crop, opium. The British encouraged growth of this crop in India and southeast Asia as part of their forced trade relationship between their colonies and China during the 19<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_36">th</span> century. Thailand was never a colony, but some of the hill tribe farmers of the north had a lot to gain by growing the crop as part of the trade. During the 20<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_37">th</span> century, drug warlords ruled the Golden Triangle before the international War on Drugs helped led to its demise. Thai royal projects, under leadership of the king and his mother, transformed opium farmers into tea and flower planters. Above, a tea plantation grows where opium once did. Opium production in Thailand has been almost completely <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_38">irradicated</span>, and has moved on to other areas of the world, of course.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsdjVTkLFdTIFts-YwUUcGIqhXLdDTOsLO7ZZmaWbGQsL9mx8q9HDf0OK6iuLFGIBMk7MzOkrmMENiBc2WkBNFNV7oouARNnqQmyrsWeyL1fYEsVav1Oirpx8zH6hmkywZslL_HMLNROo/s400/IMG_3061.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677045812284555426" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4bhr8F285DC9qc1P-nhRcRo9tpkSGC_Uw4tOP51JowL5nsHS6X49QhdAKLUmG0q1XjPGxDTuFENwx3dnmUf_VBTjg3FGFZp3MaezMda4H22zoo-1SFuwBaQFO4ZcdszAoIIE3K6UDjDs/s400/IMG_3059.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677046212286448162" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">As in Laos, hill tribe people are a variety of ethnic groups, many of which predate the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_39">Tai</span>, from China, Burma, and Tibet. This <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_40">Akha</span> woman was selling wares in the northern town of Mae <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_41">Salong</span>. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_42">Akha</span> hail from southern China and rely more heavily on tourism today than on traditional slash-and-burn nomadic agriculture. The Thai government, out of concern for the environment as well as more selfish forestry-for-profit motives, has <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_43">encouraged</span> the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_44">Akha</span> to stop slash-and-burn in favor of settling down in villages. They are one of the poorer hill tribes in Thailand, but many hold on to their traditional dress, language and customs.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggaB5DqgU04FiwqkVKMakOQvzYAEbMEe_S7S6MPedhAR1oIOY1oZnZu8-cGg_LhjSi2A32ui168k4rjgVv6B5WWpDksyvJj0l8vCvZmKz1oDGDxVX0nzapvIhqtSSmuuD1pSqlMvsrhxA/s400/IMG_3056.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677046747199210802" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Also in Mae <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_45">Salong</span>, a sundries shop that was selling a huge bag of delicious bamboo worms.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgow9_1UndE_8-9nI2SJg9ZhAoEgVLHWwYgbl7gb7t4WoVVEpcjQH6u6A42wl2_9_VcAmUorM4jxFy2smYY-dCJbgoCWwIwryGyCzVjd65Cz5A6CXLIUGzw6uYIN_LwKG0wNu8MnXkBPAs/s400/IMG_2984.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677048495858109682" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">One nerve-racking stop in the region was a temple famed for its resident monkey population. The monkeys are very used to humans and you can buy peanuts to feed them. That is all fine and good unless you have <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_46">maimouphobia</span> (irrational fear of monkeys) like I do.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq2R2OW6LzDbkiYLcemeMnfctmo9UMY3fhyphenhyphenqti8x1xwZLQkyxLHL6drfSQ-ChdE14i2i-ypogDTBS5_MN3RxzSFTbwZb0Z0Gb7qWyPtgrS-goTdhtONdBwsIzuOY18I4eoHZQSdv1-ys8/s400/IMG_3009.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677048089294508178" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Most people saw adorable and precocious little creatures looking for a peanut handout. I see shifty and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_47">vicious</span> primates, all too close to humans (but without any moral imperative) ready to bite your hand off if you don't give them the peanuts fast enough. The adults were actually very pushy and loud and our guide had a large stick with him in case they got to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_48">aggressive</span>.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrJ-_xibyF07w5IvxSKo3G5BFSVqKqv0FKGSRWnwHRF_AShL-USIgEqg-7B_i8pGZLKcF327B0k0N1pt31QBRjtQu04C5w_U5wIi1xHgFQSwNVbHfhcrqJv7m-81ZcuJYM0O6G9YiLGh4/s400/IMG_3021.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677047316748414962" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Bone chilling.</div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-7114260690592235232011-11-19T09:06:00.000-05:002011-11-19T09:06:00.545-05:00LAST IMPRESSIONS: CAMBODIA & LAOS<div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 334px; 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cursor:hand;width: 334px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmBbT3rNnXmD3F6ZkXAirLn09AblfGISWqelZtdoYyRaBGyNtLdNhZ11A8CJOqOA9n_bsoBQC2IoQXaCciCRU0MgnYV_D7u6fv3kVaycSzkHtV_l4AA7mJiLJ5_AS9yN-GRTD-BB4RweE/s400/IMG_1482.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5676275266567497554" /></a></div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-58253971337371846882011-11-18T09:00:00.000-05:002011-11-18T09:00:10.158-05:00MIDDLE MEKONG, LAOS<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHsWxtqEVg7N2kNxbGDJeBR9KoeNFUnoaYIkaQCB8KF_0xpHXRfNVEBWsW6r5smVWccw1DbMQyQDZfcMWtm-bydI4bnxQjlBYQemlna-7b9wsX5hLwrdcRxqzzNt-QnTzyYwOK8k4lRfM/s1600/IMG_2905.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHsWxtqEVg7N2kNxbGDJeBR9KoeNFUnoaYIkaQCB8KF_0xpHXRfNVEBWsW6r5smVWccw1DbMQyQDZfcMWtm-bydI4bnxQjlBYQemlna-7b9wsX5hLwrdcRxqzzNt-QnTzyYwOK8k4lRfM/s400/IMG_2905.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675240988033266018" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">We left Luang Prabang early in the morning and it was actually quite cold. We bundled up and headed up river for two full days of river travel to cross into northern Thailand.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf3ebTeVglfq1kzcxPqZEsTAb4nMXr5_tnazSNLerIKYIFbDFaOLxHqp_IYwv7v6lDCcBKcQfv0mz9UXD0S2KLKQyTCbV740K6Vslg8qyvMez9HCZXRLO_W1o236-GqixrCljZgURARVs/s1600/IMG_2720.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf3ebTeVglfq1kzcxPqZEsTAb4nMXr5_tnazSNLerIKYIFbDFaOLxHqp_IYwv7v6lDCcBKcQfv0mz9UXD0S2KLKQyTCbV740K6Vslg8qyvMez9HCZXRLO_W1o236-GqixrCljZgURARVs/s400/IMG_2720.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675240728861556850" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0eB22s9vigDS9IUoUgnIqXkUimOHyZYSeFWa9_mzj3zjsMXOFAXL2R9FMD59cOY3CjFrhMb425-TlIv6G154ac9cSrBk45SgyZK-fCyNTnlpbMCapaXkJe8cBYX8mz8IkJnO2HaKcnk8/s1600/IMG_2723.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0eB22s9vigDS9IUoUgnIqXkUimOHyZYSeFWa9_mzj3zjsMXOFAXL2R9FMD59cOY3CjFrhMb425-TlIv6G154ac9cSrBk45SgyZK-fCyNTnlpbMCapaXkJe8cBYX8mz8IkJnO2HaKcnk8/s400/IMG_2723.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675240454633891058" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9JNF2l9I8wYm2RhY8LgIfbVqizZE-qu19Ym1ue_PJ-2gNhMLAAGs3Wq4_rowRPWFV01J0JoZyl9IQZMFz0WV2B_aDTpzDgFD6uIta76dTnWlz13vkJC-9fgRjmwefy5f0v_vlZH_0Cg/s1600/IMG_2730.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9JNF2l9I8wYm2RhY8LgIfbVqizZE-qu19Ym1ue_PJ-2gNhMLAAGs3Wq4_rowRPWFV01J0JoZyl9IQZMFz0WV2B_aDTpzDgFD6uIta76dTnWlz13vkJC-9fgRjmwefy5f0v_vlZH_0Cg/s400/IMG_2730.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675240252645118562" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Things started out misty and grey, and we stopped at the Pak Ou caves, which are filled with Buddha images in an overhang overlooking the river.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjug7ziZXFnjKzZSDQbJcEDOsXAzUWs_XDleg1Y0EgjukSPRoZQWKKqvByz_48LJiS6yOrlVQyOUkdPSyGGcfwv4pAmYt7bMXrt0yvDrLe0vr58nfduyyq1pcDsrPEMO5XjPAxZKlrGFxE/s1600/IMG_2745.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjug7ziZXFnjKzZSDQbJcEDOsXAzUWs_XDleg1Y0EgjukSPRoZQWKKqvByz_48LJiS6yOrlVQyOUkdPSyGGcfwv4pAmYt7bMXrt0yvDrLe0vr58nfduyyq1pcDsrPEMO5XjPAxZKlrGFxE/s400/IMG_2745.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675239877981586354" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4jzotsVCazKKjAoaAH1GAKtlDiWQRD_lCFm135C8qdaCkYmyHp-L75cckINwuQPwX7NVFo9bCDJ8aLNwOuECG-tv73GYoPnQ48FaaqN8fHZlduB-8_Mg0GBl1GoLZvXPf8zRPi5pMZrY/s1600/IMG_2763.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4jzotsVCazKKjAoaAH1GAKtlDiWQRD_lCFm135C8qdaCkYmyHp-L75cckINwuQPwX7NVFo9bCDJ8aLNwOuECG-tv73GYoPnQ48FaaqN8fHZlduB-8_Mg0GBl1GoLZvXPf8zRPi5pMZrY/s400/IMG_2763.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675239622567941794" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0dFfK63Oc8N_uLPxUboVt7RQdWi82ju4NMyIcDPF8nxAwZ6Dm1aTw5QU5LIq2qbyjyJe-9z9HghO8WoXATeBcvvdkXxMfddi68IUZ7s5psCcfNcd0u9jAZCwqBrXjqprL0H5Gnu24e4g/s1600/IMG_2768.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0dFfK63Oc8N_uLPxUboVt7RQdWi82ju4NMyIcDPF8nxAwZ6Dm1aTw5QU5LIq2qbyjyJe-9z9HghO8WoXATeBcvvdkXxMfddi68IUZ7s5psCcfNcd0u9jAZCwqBrXjqprL0H5Gnu24e4g/s400/IMG_2768.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675239370349742978" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7uaJ-8GyrFYR2Z0CyYbrVA5gws78XSngVa6M70wNzZqARI_xVKY2Pcwd2SpvSr7x2bKkrBzJX7vfE3CNgtdCcSkEy450gqup3wVrjEndK74llAvI89N_EXJ2nqtuqBEpqIk9FF9sXUKk/s1600/IMG_2790.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7uaJ-8GyrFYR2Z0CyYbrVA5gws78XSngVa6M70wNzZqARI_xVKY2Pcwd2SpvSr7x2bKkrBzJX7vfE3CNgtdCcSkEy450gqup3wVrjEndK74llAvI89N_EXJ2nqtuqBEpqIk9FF9sXUKk/s400/IMG_2790.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675239058009560050" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtTrHGWNYj_Ng9ZD7VAF4tabcLdvJWpF5BjIpo2t9IvREsAIPik3OKGhUw1oWrrymjiNoxy1Sx4eG9Xfs8O9SvadNN9VxszeluP0C45P-CIPYywYzFHFwjboO8twSQcSeiq7JHX06rgis/s1600/IMG_2798.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtTrHGWNYj_Ng9ZD7VAF4tabcLdvJWpF5BjIpo2t9IvREsAIPik3OKGhUw1oWrrymjiNoxy1Sx4eG9Xfs8O9SvadNN9VxszeluP0C45P-CIPYywYzFHFwjboO8twSQcSeiq7JHX06rgis/s400/IMG_2798.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675238707753892306" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Just lush jungle and tiny villages along the banks as we made our way up slowly. By 11am the sun had come out and it started getting warm. I just read and watched the forrest go by. We stopped at a few small villages know for making Lao-lao, or rice whiskey. These were by far the most poverty stricken villages we saw.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeuViEr92alpexzl7jlWzg_rWf0FizZexIux10yDn8dVPS4__gBnfdABpo896Xhdesky72EvVd7LQ0SVWUbnm0ChtLi9Q-W9WcE-d-O8Gg0RmPJkzzAqDFl9kq72r_azlbwO7bgd20pYU/s1600/IMG_2807.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeuViEr92alpexzl7jlWzg_rWf0FizZexIux10yDn8dVPS4__gBnfdABpo896Xhdesky72EvVd7LQ0SVWUbnm0ChtLi9Q-W9WcE-d-O8Gg0RmPJkzzAqDFl9kq72r_azlbwO7bgd20pYU/s400/IMG_2807.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675238458189384978" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBI0g4RD25lOgObD9Wr5LJCIMQO3SkMXUiNs2J01zX3-3iF19wqQIbxqmCOMMwdD53t38h7gjd3XE3k6i0SfduoAOKjt785VngKlo-v3J5AUey2VE4_l73aaDthATSFsinabHGoaA1j0/s1600/IMG_2811.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBI0g4RD25lOgObD9Wr5LJCIMQO3SkMXUiNs2J01zX3-3iF19wqQIbxqmCOMMwdD53t38h7gjd3XE3k6i0SfduoAOKjt785VngKlo-v3J5AUey2VE4_l73aaDthATSFsinabHGoaA1j0/s400/IMG_2811.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675238091390914834" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmllcoOrHTcIlnoulCeufGPpD7XqQOZkOJTLc28T2ueyTZKAJ1dNwad54RBiUs0WEVLQxV1anquFQ4Ax7l0NGhi9vyKh84XsEQKof1y3KUeIGITrYZb2OGYnG-ywnv6jNgfApENi2iRn8/s1600/IMG_2884.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmllcoOrHTcIlnoulCeufGPpD7XqQOZkOJTLc28T2ueyTZKAJ1dNwad54RBiUs0WEVLQxV1anquFQ4Ax7l0NGhi9vyKh84XsEQKof1y3KUeIGITrYZb2OGYnG-ywnv6jNgfApENi2iRn8/s400/IMG_2884.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675237722982532066" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2bRBSm6kk1hI6BC_JM9m6-e9-CzbLi3Xw3YjKFBDVm1gbCc9-4GUBL0AVVZYE8zC2F4tYMdzMVU6smf0nbpSSi029iqh68W4HPTuWtlGmXd80xjOw0pBfBGHonVYonKsG9GwDBFXdbiU/s1600/IMG_2889.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2bRBSm6kk1hI6BC_JM9m6-e9-CzbLi3Xw3YjKFBDVm1gbCc9-4GUBL0AVVZYE8zC2F4tYMdzMVU6smf0nbpSSi029iqh68W4HPTuWtlGmXd80xjOw0pBfBGHonVYonKsG9GwDBFXdbiU/s400/IMG_2889.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675237366649603138" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">We stopped for one night at the Luang Say Lodge, where there was nothing around but stars and the river and our open air cottage. It may have been the most isolated we had been the entire trip. The next day was another full day of travel to Huay Xai, where we would cross the river into Thailand and say goodbye to the sleepy isolation, mellow pace, and rural charm, but also the deep poverty, of Laos.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPY_8UBEWEtmNCjVTnO_qm61zVsEioHWL2CiHV_qiJEaY_dKvXWrwQB7Z3bW6ck-SVmMaH_MetXMQZiRLnPkN9ngz26HDKG3vTLh9iZQ913V83l02U7ug2uXSz50ls5vRmmBg6-XQ6FOc/s1600/IMG_2893.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPY_8UBEWEtmNCjVTnO_qm61zVsEioHWL2CiHV_qiJEaY_dKvXWrwQB7Z3bW6ck-SVmMaH_MetXMQZiRLnPkN9ngz26HDKG3vTLh9iZQ913V83l02U7ug2uXSz50ls5vRmmBg6-XQ6FOc/s400/IMG_2893.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675237088884956674" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqrkKdGDDi2Zz9nSduX5BmldxavyMhd0pNdtktOx5QUM7gIH7SXF0NuiRa2ws2h85kgLE5EtdxzdxCMYSERH9nytLLGFz0ZPOcM_mfv0H5RZJ2DzmjXgCuy4_HfelL3rv5ywmKzdZZp0I/s400/IMG_2920.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675236647528017650" /></div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-67575091098537626312011-11-17T09:00:00.003-05:002011-11-19T10:15:55.819-05:00LUANG PRABANG, LAOS<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMrwILw7sX3NIuQA7jc02XxTUOUBTqjiNutL-eg9gZgkD98zWGo8B0hfn0FbhHkN1fTT4KoBDWI19stGBKlrdrX7T9sFInbXgjbSa4o0wrIsh4u6f_a92irrQC-3OWyfMIFkh-kK5Q2x8/s1600/IMG_2695.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMrwILw7sX3NIuQA7jc02XxTUOUBTqjiNutL-eg9gZgkD98zWGo8B0hfn0FbhHkN1fTT4KoBDWI19stGBKlrdrX7T9sFInbXgjbSa4o0wrIsh4u6f_a92irrQC-3OWyfMIFkh-kK5Q2x8/s400/IMG_2695.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675215763153538834" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMrwILw7sX3NIuQA7jc02XxTUOUBTqjiNutL-eg9gZgkD98zWGo8B0hfn0FbhHkN1fTT4KoBDWI19stGBKlrdrX7T9sFInbXgjbSa4o0wrIsh4u6f_a92irrQC-3OWyfMIFkh-kK5Q2x8/s1600/IMG_2695.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>Luang Prabang, the former royal capital of Laos, is a world away from Vientiane. Cool, lush, quiet and charming, Luang Prabang is the Laos of your dreams, and one of my favorite destinations on this trip.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqvMkOzLeJTek-ufLgRMFnynUMO_sY7HsaVkoUiJ9st2rBd3ldlP3dgPdXwEAaCd4y_IZZJPPmwZ35g1dXQ1loQnFFIN01-FArvBlrtIcrswusPFPCQFJ-6rpXGocDJ5FNHh1ejHxcmn4/s1600/IMG_2624.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqvMkOzLeJTek-ufLgRMFnynUMO_sY7HsaVkoUiJ9st2rBd3ldlP3dgPdXwEAaCd4y_IZZJPPmwZ35g1dXQ1loQnFFIN01-FArvBlrtIcrswusPFPCQFJ-6rpXGocDJ5FNHh1ejHxcmn4/s1600/IMG_2624.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqvMkOzLeJTek-ufLgRMFnynUMO_sY7HsaVkoUiJ9st2rBd3ldlP3dgPdXwEAaCd4y_IZZJPPmwZ35g1dXQ1loQnFFIN01-FArvBlrtIcrswusPFPCQFJ-6rpXGocDJ5FNHh1ejHxcmn4/s400/IMG_2624.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675215256778576290" /></a></div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;">The city has been known by several names and been transformed many times over its long history. As Muang Sua and then Xiang Dong Xiang Thong, the city was the center of a kingdom that fell under the influence of Chinese, Mongol, and Khmer states. After 1353 it became the capital of the Khmer backed kingdom of Lan Xang, which encompassed much of modern Laos. When the capital of the kingdom was moved to Vientiane in 1560, the name was changed again to Luang Prabang to honor the ancient Buddhist relic housed here, and the city remained a center of royalty and Buddhist study. When the French took control, they allowed the monarchy to remain in Luang Prabang and added their own imprint to the city. Today, as a World Heritage Site, "LP" is well visited, but does not feel like a tourist trap (sort of like Hoi An did). There is still a vibrant, authentic town that operates here, and it is intoxicating.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqvMkOzLeJTek-ufLgRMFnynUMO_sY7HsaVkoUiJ9st2rBd3ldlP3dgPdXwEAaCd4y_IZZJPPmwZ35g1dXQ1loQnFFIN01-FArvBlrtIcrswusPFPCQFJ-6rpXGocDJ5FNHh1ejHxcmn4/s1600/IMG_2624.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCMJCRd2cmsMKdrlZGtwm8MjzIixLh4qxYpJtpxQl3M5l_0BRLU3tIf3nyw7-bpEEKeJPtVIH8qkp5ZMOvISCCpXaOr786IzU3Att7dQTEWW4D8NRHnQSC8t87aWxBIEZJm8jDAr2-CWY/s1600/IMG_2625.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCMJCRd2cmsMKdrlZGtwm8MjzIixLh4qxYpJtpxQl3M5l_0BRLU3tIf3nyw7-bpEEKeJPtVIH8qkp5ZMOvISCCpXaOr786IzU3Att7dQTEWW4D8NRHnQSC8t87aWxBIEZJm8jDAr2-CWY/s400/IMG_2625.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675215003662873970" /></a></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCMJCRd2cmsMKdrlZGtwm8MjzIixLh4qxYpJtpxQl3M5l_0BRLU3tIf3nyw7-bpEEKeJPtVIH8qkp5ZMOvISCCpXaOr786IzU3Att7dQTEWW4D8NRHnQSC8t87aWxBIEZJm8jDAr2-CWY/s1600/IMG_2625.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh95JgbgLenpX06o_QG1tMc1aJaK4etnFGoVhVEyOEWs4DXliRHeolv9_lCOVh2jVXgupLWpNd4Gq89SmKwe8IdmpTGfw_5f1DZbNZbsRfKph-1nKDwK1wE-eG1k-OpwFRnQUODAMi4-pM/s1600/IMG_2629.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh95JgbgLenpX06o_QG1tMc1aJaK4etnFGoVhVEyOEWs4DXliRHeolv9_lCOVh2jVXgupLWpNd4Gq89SmKwe8IdmpTGfw_5f1DZbNZbsRfKph-1nKDwK1wE-eG1k-OpwFRnQUODAMi4-pM/s400/IMG_2629.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675214150915256946" /></a></div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;">One of the most beautiful temples seen on our journey was Wat Xieng Thong, a monastic complex dating from 1560 and one of only two temples in the city to be spared in the 1887 Chinese Haw troops fleeing the Taiping Rebellion.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh95JgbgLenpX06o_QG1tMc1aJaK4etnFGoVhVEyOEWs4DXliRHeolv9_lCOVh2jVXgupLWpNd4Gq89SmKwe8IdmpTGfw_5f1DZbNZbsRfKph-1nKDwK1wE-eG1k-OpwFRnQUODAMi4-pM/s1600/IMG_2629.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); 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-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh0TTx8e7XirqAXr03eMKUolI7FC2MOuqJaPaD3EKif10NU1U37lC07XhfE04oFvd-pSazzN3ADm-1R8di1fhpL-r-k9fFZcwqvqPjT1wpPfAkNZiq2CcJwsa5TH3a_Ht2q124C0Wpxk0/s1600/IMG_2654.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh0TTx8e7XirqAXr03eMKUolI7FC2MOuqJaPaD3EKif10NU1U37lC07XhfE04oFvd-pSazzN3ADm-1R8di1fhpL-r-k9fFZcwqvqPjT1wpPfAkNZiq2CcJwsa5TH3a_Ht2q124C0Wpxk0/s400/IMG_2654.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675212830135078210" /></a></div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;">Just beautiful!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh0TTx8e7XirqAXr03eMKUolI7FC2MOuqJaPaD3EKif10NU1U37lC07XhfE04oFvd-pSazzN3ADm-1R8di1fhpL-r-k9fFZcwqvqPjT1wpPfAkNZiq2CcJwsa5TH3a_Ht2q124C0Wpxk0/s1600/IMG_2654.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); 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-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNbBn3Y_a-6DhvIY1PSvTUb6woRlkMYtbA8_qnZXGo4o5UQY8423aSttFXDv8cfaR_NgBX9qSF8b6UJdOWADYyjAxMbxRo6Zoz6frmPa5b1X6E_ugI7iwUolJgQz8p85qcPL0Eyx9vH-M/s1600/IMG_2713.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNbBn3Y_a-6DhvIY1PSvTUb6woRlkMYtbA8_qnZXGo4o5UQY8423aSttFXDv8cfaR_NgBX9qSF8b6UJdOWADYyjAxMbxRo6Zoz6frmPa5b1X6E_ugI7iwUolJgQz8p85qcPL0Eyx9vH-M/s400/IMG_2713.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675208817645135314" /></a></div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;">This is a typical early 20th century wealthy family's home preserved as a museum.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNbBn3Y_a-6DhvIY1PSvTUb6woRlkMYtbA8_qnZXGo4o5UQY8423aSttFXDv8cfaR_NgBX9qSF8b6UJdOWADYyjAxMbxRo6Zoz6frmPa5b1X6E_ugI7iwUolJgQz8p85qcPL0Eyx9vH-M/s1600/IMG_2713.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); 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First a royal puppet show at a temple near our hotel.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKVZMv7eFqbkUiaBPl14t8K-mY0BMl2-A-J95cO0X8JXRMQvZGxi2rEwbQBjSgnfcRorFFkuo9xZAzNaBfD-IcKplJZSCmPJ7pYFXdLLNm9Y20LHMzfyNWcb6mzl4_b8nmxyfC1p_26gY/s1600/IMG_2592.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRj3RP_lTK4MEJSGKNoXQ9t8ZVWUM2U1Gj5kznZp5F6NaYeCyPU7mAT2feBNZ1XBwjOx1V_jUiClQr-Z3tQF2r12VfB_K9Zevm4eJ7JusvQb5rqCuYCSkg8b4nCarlQxqBwrz2j-Adk-M/s1600/IMG_2611.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRj3RP_lTK4MEJSGKNoXQ9t8ZVWUM2U1Gj5kznZp5F6NaYeCyPU7mAT2feBNZ1XBwjOx1V_jUiClQr-Z3tQF2r12VfB_K9Zevm4eJ7JusvQb5rqCuYCSkg8b4nCarlQxqBwrz2j-Adk-M/s400/IMG_2611.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675207533221845410" /></a></div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;">We proceeded to another temple, which we walked around three times, holding incense, flowers and candles along with a hundred townspeople. The moon was bright, the candles were atmospheric, the monks were beating drums at a rate that seemed almost danceable, fire fueled lanterns floated above, the air was filled with incense and Luang Prabang took its spot as my favorite city we have visited.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRj3RP_lTK4MEJSGKNoXQ9t8ZVWUM2U1Gj5kznZp5F6NaYeCyPU7mAT2feBNZ1XBwjOx1V_jUiClQr-Z3tQF2r12VfB_K9Zevm4eJ7JusvQb5rqCuYCSkg8b4nCarlQxqBwrz2j-Adk-M/s1600/IMG_2611.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_sQdxUW2NsnWAtL3J7Dnuottyoeb5_CHQAsRo0vaddMgk_1WlhNvRE8S1sKefxPLp680K7qjAQLNIhMtzqU2CXsV5y6KMTm0mieRdg6v3_K3Xx5QE-UZl4vCo-J2_kQ-E4wsoG3u7eo/s1600/IMG_2612.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_sQdxUW2NsnWAtL3J7Dnuottyoeb5_CHQAsRo0vaddMgk_1WlhNvRE8S1sKefxPLp680K7qjAQLNIhMtzqU2CXsV5y6KMTm0mieRdg6v3_K3Xx5QE-UZl4vCo-J2_kQ-E4wsoG3u7eo/s400/IMG_2612.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675207367583418610" /></a></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_sQdxUW2NsnWAtL3J7Dnuottyoeb5_CHQAsRo0vaddMgk_1WlhNvRE8S1sKefxPLp680K7qjAQLNIhMtzqU2CXsV5y6KMTm0mieRdg6v3_K3Xx5QE-UZl4vCo-J2_kQ-E4wsoG3u7eo/s1600/IMG_2612.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6CR7jiWKnl-PA3VOKXpTgnBdbf8y3CvaZV3Z2vt-En8sAch5facGQu2avqlFHWuWLceT103r0YU4ci-DphCtJVmyoLREwu5psdnRMaiyKdaFly1UJb4q5TKEYc7w3U0hQDGy_UUF2sfY/s1600/IMG_2620.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6CR7jiWKnl-PA3VOKXpTgnBdbf8y3CvaZV3Z2vt-En8sAch5facGQu2avqlFHWuWLceT103r0YU4ci-DphCtJVmyoLREwu5psdnRMaiyKdaFly1UJb4q5TKEYc7w3U0hQDGy_UUF2sfY/s400/IMG_2620.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675207024623515426" /></a></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6CR7jiWKnl-PA3VOKXpTgnBdbf8y3CvaZV3Z2vt-En8sAch5facGQu2avqlFHWuWLceT103r0YU4ci-DphCtJVmyoLREwu5psdnRMaiyKdaFly1UJb4q5TKEYc7w3U0hQDGy_UUF2sfY/s1600/IMG_2620.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5GCk6-NDEYAnjP64O-PDksssMjjAt9JZke93HrAAy0YVffEAJRq9IerRoIudPqEXHbSWsMmQn5dTTb9aAFzGuQYqRFOGIqhwM557sdr6apUJchwOJZwdzdn1lEFmUJP95oRCzYpkqAuc/s1600/IMG_2616.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5GCk6-NDEYAnjP64O-PDksssMjjAt9JZke93HrAAy0YVffEAJRq9IerRoIudPqEXHbSWsMmQn5dTTb9aAFzGuQYqRFOGIqhwM557sdr6apUJchwOJZwdzdn1lEFmUJP95oRCzYpkqAuc/s400/IMG_2616.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675206851638863234" /></a></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5GCk6-NDEYAnjP64O-PDksssMjjAt9JZke93HrAAy0YVffEAJRq9IerRoIudPqEXHbSWsMmQn5dTTb9aAFzGuQYqRFOGIqhwM557sdr6apUJchwOJZwdzdn1lEFmUJP95oRCzYpkqAuc/s1600/IMG_2616.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG5C_n29cmbgAUkoIuPUGqhPIvjBEO_kboGX9nuJsczu7o3rgZl45b4pXn4SKNPdDECJgBzomAXMYODL1DuQpt1emNpZ-IPLJg_u4VARFXGoNu3W_ZBsmuOYSyF_XyABfENRPRFDpUJwY/s1600/IMG_2503.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG5C_n29cmbgAUkoIuPUGqhPIvjBEO_kboGX9nuJsczu7o3rgZl45b4pXn4SKNPdDECJgBzomAXMYODL1DuQpt1emNpZ-IPLJg_u4VARFXGoNu3W_ZBsmuOYSyF_XyABfENRPRFDpUJwY/s400/IMG_2503.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675206407663954882" /></a></div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;">The next day we visited an elephant rescue camp and a gorgeous waterfall. Normally you can swim, but it was a bit too chilly when we were there.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG5C_n29cmbgAUkoIuPUGqhPIvjBEO_kboGX9nuJsczu7o3rgZl45b4pXn4SKNPdDECJgBzomAXMYODL1DuQpt1emNpZ-IPLJg_u4VARFXGoNu3W_ZBsmuOYSyF_XyABfENRPRFDpUJwY/s1600/IMG_2503.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK8naHrce77wIfRrIUU96qaV7eo8pjngtkgKzY3RsBBcUv4er77ld8UAvxykqeuI2R_idh-RBplqoEuLbcyPUGZteUNJLF6u9yHpSbslKZecC_bJKiHjzo7wojgxMD5gh6rf8Yo60J_1g/s1600/IMG_2558.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK8naHrce77wIfRrIUU96qaV7eo8pjngtkgKzY3RsBBcUv4er77ld8UAvxykqeuI2R_idh-RBplqoEuLbcyPUGZteUNJLF6u9yHpSbslKZecC_bJKiHjzo7wojgxMD5gh6rf8Yo60J_1g/s400/IMG_2558.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675205592641361602" /></a></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK8naHrce77wIfRrIUU96qaV7eo8pjngtkgKzY3RsBBcUv4er77ld8UAvxykqeuI2R_idh-RBplqoEuLbcyPUGZteUNJLF6u9yHpSbslKZecC_bJKiHjzo7wojgxMD5gh6rf8Yo60J_1g/s1600/IMG_2558.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQOhnVB0tp9MsV6pIRm8l2V1jEKZVurqkp7ZEhS8lyaxQyM8ymd_dF9d6UOT7d88_Gz5mrsAv0uvFIVKCp65X8Ev1nLaMJAvN-zRl5EruKUfMoj2i4bd9vE6lxFFiV1rNPE5smzfxEmPQ/s1600/IMG_2512.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQOhnVB0tp9MsV6pIRm8l2V1jEKZVurqkp7ZEhS8lyaxQyM8ymd_dF9d6UOT7d88_Gz5mrsAv0uvFIVKCp65X8Ev1nLaMJAvN-zRl5EruKUfMoj2i4bd9vE6lxFFiV1rNPE5smzfxEmPQ/s400/IMG_2512.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675205221100346930" /></a></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQOhnVB0tp9MsV6pIRm8l2V1jEKZVurqkp7ZEhS8lyaxQyM8ymd_dF9d6UOT7d88_Gz5mrsAv0uvFIVKCp65X8Ev1nLaMJAvN-zRl5EruKUfMoj2i4bd9vE6lxFFiV1rNPE5smzfxEmPQ/s1600/IMG_2512.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5jimDiEMfhtR6uCxLoQCK4IvV7wtcUzaMadiVClA4kkdvUsq8Ifta3V6-AJREtEhVT-URNXOz0mzX0wHVYQoCs1g8midlXGFq8PRh55zejxMHmpHptq4zWjwfESO09sDGVwTjrlCZ1-8/s1600/IMG_2515.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5jimDiEMfhtR6uCxLoQCK4IvV7wtcUzaMadiVClA4kkdvUsq8Ifta3V6-AJREtEhVT-URNXOz0mzX0wHVYQoCs1g8midlXGFq8PRh55zejxMHmpHptq4zWjwfESO09sDGVwTjrlCZ1-8/s400/IMG_2515.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675204799979013106" /></a></div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;">We had mixed feelings about riding one of these amazing creatures. Lan Xang Hom Khao, the full name for the former kingdom of Laos, means "land of a million elephants." Only 1,000 Asian elephants survive in the wild in Laos, and another 1,000 are domesticated. Many of those are used in the logging industry, where they are worked to the bone and abused. Rescue centers like the one we visited give former logging elephants a chance at a happier life and rehabilitation. Like many tourist-oriented activities in this part of the world, including hill-tribe visits and preserved town centers, the elephant rides are a double edged sword. It is better than working in logging (for many reasons) but also sad that these highly intelligent and sensitive creatures are not able to survive in the wild.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5jimDiEMfhtR6uCxLoQCK4IvV7wtcUzaMadiVClA4kkdvUsq8Ifta3V6-AJREtEhVT-URNXOz0mzX0wHVYQoCs1g8midlXGFq8PRh55zejxMHmpHptq4zWjwfESO09sDGVwTjrlCZ1-8/s1600/IMG_2515.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmyTjWS-dRn6yyoSTnti71ktAzoeD8XtSKX3SkkmQVHYPzuG92aG5qirrucIcZv-vbKXxfmVV5PhcWfA7fk0y22_ncUXYS4XHq7d1veLu0T3UMJG00HfIZ2qVOdyfB088IK8gAD-oJaE/s1600/IMG_2486.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmyTjWS-dRn6yyoSTnti71ktAzoeD8XtSKX3SkkmQVHYPzuG92aG5qirrucIcZv-vbKXxfmVV5PhcWfA7fk0y22_ncUXYS4XHq7d1veLu0T3UMJG00HfIZ2qVOdyfB088IK8gAD-oJaE/s400/IMG_2486.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675204316377676162" /></a></div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;">Luang Prabang also had some of my favorite food on the trip. Above, a home-cooked meal we ate with a Lao-Loum (lowland Lao) family that farms cotton. They were gracious and lovely but we felt (once again) that visiting the homes of villagers is a strange form of tourism. Good in that it provides income where there might not be enough and allows for cross cultural experiences, but bad in that it turns their daily life into a bit of a "human theme park." It is hard to decide if visiting is the right or the wrong thing. There is not a clear answer in a part of the world that is changing as quickly as this one.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmyTjWS-dRn6yyoSTnti71ktAzoeD8XtSKX3SkkmQVHYPzuG92aG5qirrucIcZv-vbKXxfmVV5PhcWfA7fk0y22_ncUXYS4XHq7d1veLu0T3UMJG00HfIZ2qVOdyfB088IK8gAD-oJaE/s1600/IMG_2486.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ayjioRtP4SaEF1ECK7nU-nYrsvvr0kuCYeGxFUomDrGYpU46PnYKGWLQ9eEjHX65fqbHQdE7gTF04CcsX0Nc-xFW-QyNofau4FupviPEBOcYMzfswueqPsAU8lLAgAtLBEkALDPhA68/s1600/IMG_2602.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ayjioRtP4SaEF1ECK7nU-nYrsvvr0kuCYeGxFUomDrGYpU46PnYKGWLQ9eEjHX65fqbHQdE7gTF04CcsX0Nc-xFW-QyNofau4FupviPEBOcYMzfswueqPsAU8lLAgAtLBEkALDPhA68/s400/IMG_2602.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675204027252668018" /></a></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ayjioRtP4SaEF1ECK7nU-nYrsvvr0kuCYeGxFUomDrGYpU46PnYKGWLQ9eEjHX65fqbHQdE7gTF04CcsX0Nc-xFW-QyNofau4FupviPEBOcYMzfswueqPsAU8lLAgAtLBEkALDPhA68/s1600/IMG_2602.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDmb5w2zhD4dlU8Owahvr1gmChEZbUnLjYW1aYx4QvMHaPHDTiR1Tna2XD4U91Zf2xX-BVkSFrokjh7X8VIM8vc0ghArhD7z51khjo2FXm_YG9mMYy7Hj_fcn5dKsAEuV-TbM9Ap0MBvA/s1600/IMG_2604.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDmb5w2zhD4dlU8Owahvr1gmChEZbUnLjYW1aYx4QvMHaPHDTiR1Tna2XD4U91Zf2xX-BVkSFrokjh7X8VIM8vc0ghArhD7z51khjo2FXm_YG9mMYy7Hj_fcn5dKsAEuV-TbM9Ap0MBvA/s400/IMG_2604.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675203744568160210" /></a></div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;">Sindad, a fantastic grilled-at-the-table dinner of broth and cooked meat and vegetables.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDmb5w2zhD4dlU8Owahvr1gmChEZbUnLjYW1aYx4QvMHaPHDTiR1Tna2XD4U91Zf2xX-BVkSFrokjh7X8VIM8vc0ghArhD7z51khjo2FXm_YG9mMYy7Hj_fcn5dKsAEuV-TbM9Ap0MBvA/s1600/IMG_2604.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiChmc8LLPGSQyC6CpgJjQfqooDuz-brWYjD78k-mFzsoPNpRvFklXdw55h4wb66_Ry3XmX5YHWYN7ogXOZH0f75raH2qEMDS_9xaDNHE4DOUTWNEdA9JQYbjMZQ3Jtxii-IjX_yRsV82g/s1600/IMG_2662.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiChmc8LLPGSQyC6CpgJjQfqooDuz-brWYjD78k-mFzsoPNpRvFklXdw55h4wb66_Ry3XmX5YHWYN7ogXOZH0f75raH2qEMDS_9xaDNHE4DOUTWNEdA9JQYbjMZQ3Jtxii-IjX_yRsV82g/s400/IMG_2662.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675203366221626658" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;">And khao say Luang Prabang, a local speciality of rice noodles with soy bean sauce, tomato, minced pork and onion. YUM.</div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-52613446160828280842011-11-16T09:00:00.001-05:002011-11-16T09:00:16.711-05:00VIENTIANE, LAOS<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Q3vDnBJUij_qUjI8OMm4u3BSWes3xHNbQ5br8OwPju5SZaDRTXajxpk0yyxqUbugRdJ1VtUNVNeKQfUrOWBehkSOHiRLgNOfPZHnLZrLKtFm0PnJeYeWCJpmPPOATib5J5shO6nL0kM/s1600/IMG_2430.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Q3vDnBJUij_qUjI8OMm4u3BSWes3xHNbQ5br8OwPju5SZaDRTXajxpk0yyxqUbugRdJ1VtUNVNeKQfUrOWBehkSOHiRLgNOfPZHnLZrLKtFm0PnJeYeWCJpmPPOATib5J5shO6nL0kM/s400/IMG_2430.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674889294996018306" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: left;">Vientiane is the dusty, funky capital city of Laos. Originally the capital of a Lao kingdom, Viang Chan (before the French mis-transliterated the name) was a tributary of the Siam kingdom to the west before becoming the capital of the united Lan Xang kingdom in 1560. Over the ages, the capital was looted, burned to the ground and made tributary by the Siamese, Vietnamese, and Burmese, leaving few remaining original structures. The city was remade in 1805 by Siamese-backed prince Chao Anou, then leveled again in 1828 when the prince rebelled. The French made it their quiet colonial capital when they forced the Siamese to hand over the area east of the Mekong in 1893, remaking the city again and adding some beautiful colonial buildings. When the country oriented toward the communist bloc after 1975, the several bad concrete block apartments and buildings were added. The result is interesting and strange, as you can see from these pictures. The city sort of has a feeling of a frontier town. In fact, before the communists cleaned things up, Vientiane was an epicenter of Cold War intrigue, where spies and journalists lived on the edge and opium, prostitution and gambling were rampant.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-hmMb1kPhBR0IcPKtZGKQusPJZHAvTca_KxSfp_DI-slrIyaM90dWpRbwKfLlIPBhyTNDvEy9Ye_JaT_srHzz7aFfACJx_xUFEo5DZkwOW3Th5IeXQV37qYeeNd8EQFCC271YvXHUSQA/s400/IMG_2374.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674887530308563842" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg66___qh_GAaF4h2M4Y8G6BjfZxRh9sx_43_OfmETZpr-xac2OIQHvb_uDNinJwrZ-GSvmu-r3GLYI5HWk1V-bTjmXFYx9y5Co2kPwchtX32mD865vd7zsV8HGeGqg9Ukcawoxp-ikfb0/s400/IMG_2375.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674887260730950850" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwq71_tuv49aWa73r28g4AM5k5TcvMj5py165EKUG_S9k-Nuoz0M4tr2GrYQPpgsvrHs_K1WipLAPsIv3NIUSYgL_jCnkCEbI-nrmITjz7Rs8nllsJdJHpTDFPzJKE0vboW9VgRVem9zk/s400/IMG_2390.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674888631669840434" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxPn13IvI6uBSNPlZKEbmgvPE-TLNsNuY-WImLEL5T_cnGPG9BuoTfEJkbyRrCcvREax1waYUOKrrQREFkvF1sL85eFmmbhoE2j01Y9S-_j8eqBUl8SzMnwOhWgPdyZ9CmZNqWACNXrIw/s1600/IMG_2379.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxPn13IvI6uBSNPlZKEbmgvPE-TLNsNuY-WImLEL5T_cnGPG9BuoTfEJkbyRrCcvREax1waYUOKrrQREFkvF1sL85eFmmbhoE2j01Y9S-_j8eqBUl8SzMnwOhWgPdyZ9CmZNqWACNXrIw/s400/IMG_2379.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674886435123292722" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxParEO4nbcSVkrRhabjoIPIcl6EchR2Q67Wuch-t7B_BktssoCFV8qMdUg9jeVy5_LOd8IcfUdmDRcjC9P2RiMQAGCWmQHNX_Qg7ltnXIA2D2k8VPtUGIap5tQCzaCi-FtOCpDn_owTQ/s1600/IMG_2406.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxParEO4nbcSVkrRhabjoIPIcl6EchR2Q67Wuch-t7B_BktssoCFV8qMdUg9jeVy5_LOd8IcfUdmDRcjC9P2RiMQAGCWmQHNX_Qg7ltnXIA2D2k8VPtUGIap5tQCzaCi-FtOCpDn_owTQ/s400/IMG_2406.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674885749214800994" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtRHd-yMAJoccvXhEDjeFfb6ZmYBVuDsaL-IPCqmFaFe_DHZgho2Nk5zFta-gNdzKCbByKtu-NDwMjVHz00h37ac7ZG1uiiqHjt0V6PYCtJYLZmDv-mIExQocrm_XlTipME2Mody8qY5s/s1600/IMG_2409.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtRHd-yMAJoccvXhEDjeFfb6ZmYBVuDsaL-IPCqmFaFe_DHZgho2Nk5zFta-gNdzKCbByKtu-NDwMjVHz00h37ac7ZG1uiiqHjt0V6PYCtJYLZmDv-mIExQocrm_XlTipME2Mody8qY5s/s400/IMG_2409.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674885344768775490" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq6HWlT7OS5bYigmecgGLkzWXdjNEBJ0HUWhp_ELpnw8yG6QLFLV7lDfM_Sq8D3IpfCsdlR_dgr6hwXPdtfCtESAPxIPqkk-cvwpMQKYcWJP3rUeakPDut27ZPKHySCmPGuXptNtIE7YA/s1600/IMG_2410.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq6HWlT7OS5bYigmecgGLkzWXdjNEBJ0HUWhp_ELpnw8yG6QLFLV7lDfM_Sq8D3IpfCsdlR_dgr6hwXPdtfCtESAPxIPqkk-cvwpMQKYcWJP3rUeakPDut27ZPKHySCmPGuXptNtIE7YA/s400/IMG_2410.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674884701614552642" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGci-Canxzzcaqe8IchY2oJhhLJPvfLx_lVZKbJ0Oup5KBHpHHYR_8QWzqm2g5VpSThAXxvrrgRCRKNNxzv7FrK-Ilhbdh-_u58kQL1205ZPEB1ZDvjh4BkUTPqwodRlCQ0REyhLhy_nM/s1600/IMG_2411.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGci-Canxzzcaqe8IchY2oJhhLJPvfLx_lVZKbJ0Oup5KBHpHHYR_8QWzqm2g5VpSThAXxvrrgRCRKNNxzv7FrK-Ilhbdh-_u58kQL1205ZPEB1ZDvjh4BkUTPqwodRlCQ0REyhLhy_nM/s400/IMG_2411.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674884079959326530" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLEJLDd7EJzEfd-ny0bTuKoRF_XoZvgJwWZS8fCyRY-5cHSCV9blFKM1J9LaWpKB22X-wHcUUWDIkN0bglWovV5Vlr6KnDFMRdpO4O31izBc8J3fq2ChD8r1Ek2hsQXaoRZbKc03Mye44/s1600/IMG_2418.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLEJLDd7EJzEfd-ny0bTuKoRF_XoZvgJwWZS8fCyRY-5cHSCV9blFKM1J9LaWpKB22X-wHcUUWDIkN0bglWovV5Vlr6KnDFMRdpO4O31izBc8J3fq2ChD8r1Ek2hsQXaoRZbKc03Mye44/s400/IMG_2418.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674883779395308354" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9opQJB-R134KlR4kjxCcoq6d7BRFKIWtYreo_HuQKORW_KLXRcyFl2OLEHX3Vs7kwKBtkpG8pNnQaUSbJDttWcX7cj4qPZOXwZnCgGgpBdw6OSYGCrnCl5A1mz145Nrd4INMk31HpDA8/s1600/IMG_2419.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9opQJB-R134KlR4kjxCcoq6d7BRFKIWtYreo_HuQKORW_KLXRcyFl2OLEHX3Vs7kwKBtkpG8pNnQaUSbJDttWcX7cj4qPZOXwZnCgGgpBdw6OSYGCrnCl5A1mz145Nrd4INMk31HpDA8/s400/IMG_2419.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674883479252094546" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Ni_AC3XyMokKTGrq7oFZxkiWr8ykPbKZYYHyFgbyS18dIkVVSgjQI5eNiQnD7nTuIBU5Dnu3nCNDZKJ1vnjDN6GRXXX3G5EaIYtU8d7FL6iydjFmcfYrijpBX5HEfI5dpWNvhybv2Qs/s1600/IMG_2420.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Ni_AC3XyMokKTGrq7oFZxkiWr8ykPbKZYYHyFgbyS18dIkVVSgjQI5eNiQnD7nTuIBU5Dnu3nCNDZKJ1vnjDN6GRXXX3G5EaIYtU8d7FL6iydjFmcfYrijpBX5HEfI5dpWNvhybv2Qs/s400/IMG_2420.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674883168524157842" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF_hH92QKCTMI38Qd35mt6bL2Smek8b8KUumpHapQ7glsy8VyAPQRRDQyybpluXu97sno6vtoOGXeduHjrnlb8VlesOtY8uJg8c7_Jh8fJQE1qk85KM-ShX_2pkENf1dalDOZnIVeCJXU/s1600/IMG_2423.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF_hH92QKCTMI38Qd35mt6bL2Smek8b8KUumpHapQ7glsy8VyAPQRRDQyybpluXu97sno6vtoOGXeduHjrnlb8VlesOtY8uJg8c7_Jh8fJQE1qk85KM-ShX_2pkENf1dalDOZnIVeCJXU/s400/IMG_2423.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674882872618751586" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2odV0NBb5-iO8fxw3Ni7p32ZQsx0j77fZ59O1xKwPEP1vI9V2_eoqTqUqUMC-_Ic8qH4YA8vTqsZYOL8el6fHdqlRYhRkFGABEY1r9IASUJrilm2skbjI_YJS04If8cTOpZYm_Qevp-0/s1600/IMG_2425.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2odV0NBb5-iO8fxw3Ni7p32ZQsx0j77fZ59O1xKwPEP1vI9V2_eoqTqUqUMC-_Ic8qH4YA8vTqsZYOL8el6fHdqlRYhRkFGABEY1r9IASUJrilm2skbjI_YJS04If8cTOpZYm_Qevp-0/s400/IMG_2425.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674882590831471938" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYnhfj1qZCQ0K3jl93wNnZfqDGHNEtmaPJM2K2w4bLAMsifp4ZWHwKKvSf7Be4TLZEryOm4rsi8iBailpyiPwMllRPB_0wnc8RJrNhbzR835SFFFgXiPSnNFSm-oz6y1yyie0E4rBpCQg/s1600/IMG_2426.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYnhfj1qZCQ0K3jl93wNnZfqDGHNEtmaPJM2K2w4bLAMsifp4ZWHwKKvSf7Be4TLZEryOm4rsi8iBailpyiPwMllRPB_0wnc8RJrNhbzR835SFFFgXiPSnNFSm-oz6y1yyie0E4rBpCQg/s400/IMG_2426.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674882300519925650" /></a><div style="text-align: left;">Vientiane is not a beautiful city, exactly, but it has a strange charm. It also has some great food.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiBkJdYT39tpu57s-Ww-MbWucHNYOTa9_OA1D2bTRNa-pPFPzE5luF2FCW5vlns9tCK97dLTUuppfK3O8B2l6NVM_203rmO767IXjd15jo795It2Z6rhKLu8zSlROgzX17ZVTEzTsqtz0/s400/IMG_2311.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674881850800262946" />Chicken green-curry. Thailand is right across the river from the city, so the cuisine is heavily influenced by Thai cuisine, even though the area of Thailand that borders Laos is mostly ethnically Lao.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUM3sNAE3e18LVOjW0rdf6sYpe2YBqjIOCt51zQSuqR8TCZX0Siku0oSZTbn2LTFxtMVp_ID-C96Aj7sLknQ14g6l54RltF5tSOUQ7WHUyShBRI3SKekNTXnikBllaKj0btUWAhT6g6CE/s400/IMG_2384.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674879651375093026" />My favorite meal was at this popular lunch spot.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC2bYLuJpSEmWdGABpMOsPcuu2uGzyygzKMtgu2n0mmxRrI2XC6v7j4nsVzxiflUf38c9IJUNXhh1gZ7GCtpWY8iqamF8Blo5HDNAXkKF2IOMtlbtxvKT0a2LTz2dW1tGet6Fo0DMD-DI/s400/IMG_2381.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674879314804265458" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXRjvPhquJtl-nSAA2j9FAZ0R5f2t7M5xjHBGXHUaLEzTVNMTQOKrNMHjcyBRuwjIWOBbpV2eZxWXuba3rmxHxHssOyZUX3itvKFVlx0gE98MYsugHXT_x5-QzK-siEV96EJfKCKFvyWA/s400/IMG_2383.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674879002381618242" />A Lao version of Pho, but with pork instead of beef or chicken. Lots of fresh veggies (our no-locally washed vegetable rule had to go out the window if we wanted to enjoy the local cuisine) lime, chilies and salt.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBdNwi_bC4U3yH_ab2kCakCts52yJAAG5SmGO88UR86iNWzzRy6lC_6WbnXkc8aSmA145NEeEDnIE8NaDDASKxb6_YCkSHWCxua07dBXA97iEs3r2wUkn9D0Ey1KtE9Ghm1EU-L1c1ZOo/s400/IMG_2433.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674878300918823586" />The next day at a similar roadside home/restaurant, we had grilled chicken and a green-papaya salad, along with some sort of exotic bean I had never seen before.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Y5tDcomUtgeRlYtE5Aln7Gmqbx1Ra0TbsqfXqo02EGdjub4Ofs162SbeteGgS5UfD4OFZxIM8eCn1YU7Bjhz8IJKEqcCBLCakgMmD9jKV9goOATD8_RnOCntWafZlG-Ihc5vlVVXGAQ/s400/IMG_2436.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674878629898413394" />Grill warrior ladies.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNwfkHgiP-rsdedwKP24GIg2YJVZtMhEmz4H757KzBLlMBXQAOE-Ocy_YcfAWPSwmLIVnpc3L58fH1Iyq8rzZTSAe6Nh-F0kCJZ6yBrmFoBBH4WrW80On3bdezOvZ1DzRoMLC5fUjAzIs/s400/IMG_2321.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674881612988942338" />Vientiane is not all moldy 20th century buildings. However most of the older structures have been restored and remodeled extensively. Here is Pha That Luang, the country's most important stupa and a symbol of Lao sovereignty. The legend has it that a bone from Buddha himself was buried here, unlike most stupas in this region of the world. Stupas are meant to be reliquaries for parts or ash of the Buddha, but very few actually prove to be.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmrseXMRn7cCD6wvkZyEDEUq1DPmWUvS3PVPTwpgjjww68YuLbVpUOXnl80tyVqBxXPHdWlO15C8Etq-fXDk3F9D26mWzGg7NK8MGYEj8PpKcA5dy2iiV5ZW9SxWzl4kVUup9Ly699pbc/s400/IMG_2322.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674881351621502786" />It is good luck to purchase a few sparrows (odd numbers are best) and set them free. No doubt so this lady can trap them again and repeat the cycle with the next tourist. We did it anyway.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAgpvv7z2ILnnbBuyl1S_H7RuTq0Z-DW8z3ykp9m4euZTzfkvJhTLN3_SDJdagzf_BBeYOnSmibLqiYD1u1cLTRIlwOs63L1xJFZCFLfy_k8LwqoZvVdiT1aiTXoyh0JhnYrcM3gSYQlY/s400/IMG_2361.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674880533268612594" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivXzfphwOULztBiyL2Hwb4Z0vHFFbwlVw4yx1EgzPXLrM0EF79-tFHA3i-zAr7-85bhKhaL8K3YcxOY9Xz0tNr49ZjiZeN2ZZ42x9KlR-6jHmAFN6ZJA8ognGM3n16-lWr_fbmtupquGM/s400/IMG_2362.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674880258338365826" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9HiiIlT8aTlF65aZSgNldEkJoYaZ7jJjSvH3YAn2CUnWIPXcUEUDB6jtWLKqedU2UbFJcKYfNi97E_k5W-ZNjmq1CG7SSViwq8dJW5w2oXIDdpAqyC_ZDhqKKF7ksL3Uws_wlSep4iyo/s400/IMG_2368.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674879992092580242" />Above is Haw Pha Kaeo, the former royal temple near the former royal palace (now the presidential palace). This temple was originally built in 1565 to house the famed emerald Buddha (actually made of jade). In 1779 the Siamese stole the emerald Buddha and in 1828 they razed the temple. The current version was restored by the French in the 1930's.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Gr8Jx8IRkGbdWgXRRgfAlb5Mmd23o9mF97K1jX8q4DAkTmkn7F9ed6Bh21UY3KUYVKKRhKQha7Wvn01h-VNKCBwDad-Rk_n1rKvyOPh0rziy5zDLqgeFMJ_SWNyCppXMSCH3JROV0T4/s400/IMG_2351.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674880789802376978" />At nearby Wat Si Saket, hundreds of broken Buddha images are kept in a pile. Around the cloister that surrounds the Siam-style temple, are hundreds of non-damaged statues from various time periods, including some from the 15th and 16th centuries.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKsbqNvjsYsOhPJ0ctRSSrQmrV3ZfFQLuTcbs_YhZPq3LkOAJg_dR-e1271JYgGSHmevRKOKj_5DVYuhI_Dpv96vonCjd55j4nrZLhXUUiedb0BlZ0o4Krik1Ij_ZfG-lzXQBpmv7OB3I/s400/IMG_2350.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674881046651053618" /></div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-52798212376740526842011-11-15T09:00:00.000-05:002011-11-15T09:39:24.457-05:00PAKSE, LAOS<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZYqmMlghcnKHLwDQ6loxkZhA8v8bHOJK-FK2jvAJcZE9exTHCBfw_rGF-wh3nLhcvVNgpJXACRB-5SsBjTDs4Turk49AMXhm9IAs8zQSVXTnkI87Jrv3DyEbk9rz0f3STBMvNRD-xQmo/s1600/IMG_2302.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZYqmMlghcnKHLwDQ6loxkZhA8v8bHOJK-FK2jvAJcZE9exTHCBfw_rGF-wh3nLhcvVNgpJXACRB-5SsBjTDs4Turk49AMXhm9IAs8zQSVXTnkI87Jrv3DyEbk9rz0f3STBMvNRD-xQmo/s400/IMG_2302.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674819484155361362" /></a>We were due to exit southern Laos into the Khorat plateau of eastern Thailand before reentering Laos via land at the capital, Vientiane. Unfortunately passport issues (never leave home without at least three <i>extra</i> pages in your passport than you think you need!) meant we were afraid of being denied reentry. As a result, we chose to stay in the provincial capital of Pakse and fly directly to Vientiane the following day. Pakse is not a place I recommend going. <div><br /></div><div>Laos was originally a series of rural Buddhist kingdoms, aligned with more powerful neighbors. When the French seized Lan Xang (as the Lao kingdom was called) it was mainly as a springboard for aspirations of further expansion, and as a buffer against Siam. The colony remained the neglected step child of the French... in fact, even in 1940 it took longer to get from Luang Prabang (the former royal capital) down the river to Saigon than it did from Saigon to Paris via steam ship. In other words, Laos was isolated and without much infrastructure for most of its history. That remained the case right up through the communist victory in 1975. Now that Laos is opening up, the main players in development are Vietnam, Thailand and (most powerful of all) China.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH_C8IlD5TNDp4rro2DB0aewdZczVWyHEpfsiubgK3xpI834UPh3zduT7zs90F0jZ5Yp8KUZ4qRrXpSL9wlwNmJo-D-oA0rhk5bWZ4H5XRueNrUsEuNYth3UoaYLMyZ23xzP-D0XZr8gU/s1600/IMG_2310.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH_C8IlD5TNDp4rro2DB0aewdZczVWyHEpfsiubgK3xpI834UPh3zduT7zs90F0jZ5Yp8KUZ4qRrXpSL9wlwNmJo-D-oA0rhk5bWZ4H5XRueNrUsEuNYth3UoaYLMyZ23xzP-D0XZr8gU/s400/IMG_2310.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674819208439676722" /></a>Behold a Chinese contribution to former isolated provincial backwater, Pakse: the Champasak Grand Hotel. We seemed to be the only western tourists in town, which is developing its infrastructure to cater to Thai visitors who cross to gamble and karokee for cheap. The Chinese designed, Lao staffed, Thai patronized mix at this hotel is bizarre.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZz6WOgD5ABeRInYAXAhpAfahKUzsF7cxh-JdGGDRPZG15ybpEetIlWIGVas8Mqndv1DqQ0BBYN5m7wVYEQ1au_3WDhYCPgnOTZW3PcTsEgm3HkFvsD3J40zsxRfvAFUmZBhVNC8rYFWM/s1600/IMG_2283.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZz6WOgD5ABeRInYAXAhpAfahKUzsF7cxh-JdGGDRPZG15ybpEetIlWIGVas8Mqndv1DqQ0BBYN5m7wVYEQ1au_3WDhYCPgnOTZW3PcTsEgm3HkFvsD3J40zsxRfvAFUmZBhVNC8rYFWM/s400/IMG_2283.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674818823815662994" /></a>The Champasak Grand has mastered the communist-does-capitalist interiors of my nightmares.</div><div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQCmIA42vm6xpfTkGP37Rnbtma_10wEN2DKHNT9h2uKPwtzh1eiPButfPwN72UcZTsJ0kGJiSUSCxEN3xnd51UEz-3MKm7EAMHNcvzka3tVQr_LM_ykUt-el4bvyIjSfa4via0tu2BGZY/s400/IMG_2285.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674818447933914962" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6JC5cBpOSWB0D9bZRsnYI8UQEQzoHkDunq9k77yCLEtNKTMV7l_W_u77q0Az-qTsyKH9zrzUAt5LavJFYFGC-Sx_6jLB8PEU1JasEHP_it0p4kQAZkIvStF5mH_v8Tq6BWuTN8SYSrEY/s1600/IMG_2284.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6JC5cBpOSWB0D9bZRsnYI8UQEQzoHkDunq9k77yCLEtNKTMV7l_W_u77q0Az-qTsyKH9zrzUAt5LavJFYFGC-Sx_6jLB8PEU1JasEHP_it0p4kQAZkIvStF5mH_v8Tq6BWuTN8SYSrEY/s400/IMG_2284.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674818648152184690" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPde0pTmkkiR-RnmPWPsYOKN7zuLQZgVzT7XjrAi_WmtRqcHJj0fixHwjVNKApBONB1x7mkConwgO6hsyCuGawEpnCcX-FcZcg3Y_j-0Hvq7sKnXVqFfBN4P4H45-6DFmNN_39ZswrULU/s1600/IMG_2287.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPde0pTmkkiR-RnmPWPsYOKN7zuLQZgVzT7XjrAi_WmtRqcHJj0fixHwjVNKApBONB1x7mkConwgO6hsyCuGawEpnCcX-FcZcg3Y_j-0Hvq7sKnXVqFfBN4P4H45-6DFmNN_39ZswrULU/s400/IMG_2287.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674818250173407138" /></a>I didn't know what a "slimming cryo massage" was, but I was NOT going to find out.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdZHYAAxonP81PXfzQLZAiwiJ5ZeCvkqQ7WFFl_Wb32ov2DXl8-Umlvxzn1fNS_HhuStDUOpYTo9X6k4keC18goJ9o6EkmA7jjuBFTSkVi9qQTncF6siXJrltC-r9ByuVCqPSYu_zDayE/s1600/IMG_2289.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdZHYAAxonP81PXfzQLZAiwiJ5ZeCvkqQ7WFFl_Wb32ov2DXl8-Umlvxzn1fNS_HhuStDUOpYTo9X6k4keC18goJ9o6EkmA7jjuBFTSkVi9qQTncF6siXJrltC-r9ByuVCqPSYu_zDayE/s400/IMG_2289.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674818006375315138" /></a>What you cannot garner from this photograph is the fact that a single Kenny G sax composition played on repeat at an unacceptable volume. The lobby was the only place to get internet access, so we heard Kenny in our dreams for the next few days.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOas20Kgxx5Z7KOydxveYde5Gy00gixc3dpDekeZ4SvXGh9cfvOEuP5OwifK_4ywm2i3cbe8YK99p0XXbCeepr75RS_DT-SuUgHtTyPJC34xMfmHJTjOeyUYK2zXrtUWpo52vs9WnvZhw/s1600/IMG_2291.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOas20Kgxx5Z7KOydxveYde5Gy00gixc3dpDekeZ4SvXGh9cfvOEuP5OwifK_4ywm2i3cbe8YK99p0XXbCeepr75RS_DT-SuUgHtTyPJC34xMfmHJTjOeyUYK2zXrtUWpo52vs9WnvZhw/s400/IMG_2291.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674817749072450162" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirEIv-HVr7MX2g_eb-JLepx_KDX6m4Z2IaLOd00wgv9DlPwA8qwC8Vzm1qjH27w-P8VuCTAIF0XImblXw1gilkHRe4V-75iJAVUiydNgNDlECOFnB9jWUVbPTDK9oie5AFiOilsAMBV5A/s1600/IMG_2293.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirEIv-HVr7MX2g_eb-JLepx_KDX6m4Z2IaLOd00wgv9DlPwA8qwC8Vzm1qjH27w-P8VuCTAIF0XImblXw1gilkHRe4V-75iJAVUiydNgNDlECOFnB9jWUVbPTDK9oie5AFiOilsAMBV5A/s400/IMG_2293.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674817539574936322" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk3FAU9K7alSk3nKnlCKD7Vq4MbnSok8iSQHuSr6UzdY_0e30tWx0FZy2FVRwuCFDUJLV8eRNIVwftg-jbcZCFgnz5xUJpkqGzxTDyzHy8uN4gAQaBbWYgCCTCo2Jf2OzYH551ZHI5cxc/s1600/IMG_2303.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk3FAU9K7alSk3nKnlCKD7Vq4MbnSok8iSQHuSr6UzdY_0e30tWx0FZy2FVRwuCFDUJLV8eRNIVwftg-jbcZCFgnz5xUJpkqGzxTDyzHy8uN4gAQaBbWYgCCTCo2Jf2OzYH551ZHI5cxc/s400/IMG_2303.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674817332214558066" /></a>All materials fabricated with off-gassing toxic chemicals and assembled in an unsafe manner by unlicensed contractors. All furniture made from old-growth Lao mahogany forests in factories over the border in China by children making $1 a day. Views of the water treatment plant.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA_fSQk5RsRu1TJYG5Q9JeSXc_NhPW7iP1uxDPPhBMQTkJWLmTmmHvR56R5sRQlYSiF2c_FJypZlbzvXNNB0hxhaX0byI5rExwAn0YBVH-9Y9B69fGuJHI482l0lj-tHE-m06b7xxCJ4U/s1600/IMG_2309.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA_fSQk5RsRu1TJYG5Q9JeSXc_NhPW7iP1uxDPPhBMQTkJWLmTmmHvR56R5sRQlYSiF2c_FJypZlbzvXNNB0hxhaX0byI5rExwAn0YBVH-9Y9B69fGuJHI482l0lj-tHE-m06b7xxCJ4U/s400/IMG_2309.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674817096796434354" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik-gWHojBkfIf1BG-knwyJoZAJvT-4Hr2AWP0fbrRnUnA2yCdajT3rd1wmz2FnOcPn2tMSM92hV1TC8gAqXSTtC-BQwJsJ3BzFcqbcS8Mo1vKjjGEPwH2v1X3khCskpk9__Uu3ShcXy8Q/s1600/IMG_2308.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik-gWHojBkfIf1BG-knwyJoZAJvT-4Hr2AWP0fbrRnUnA2yCdajT3rd1wmz2FnOcPn2tMSM92hV1TC8gAqXSTtC-BQwJsJ3BzFcqbcS8Mo1vKjjGEPwH2v1X3khCskpk9__Uu3ShcXy8Q/s400/IMG_2308.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674816872114264178" /></a>The view from the other side of the hotel is of a humongous, tacky mansion being built by the Vietnamese owner of Laos' largest coffee producer. Pakse is a little glimpse into a Laos that will come about if the one party government, which sensors the press and freedom of speech, allows the country's more powerful neighbors to exploit the resources and labor of their country. It is a sad and scary vision.</div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-58947722741469174362011-11-14T05:06:00.025-05:002011-11-14T06:43:40.590-05:00LOWER MEKONG, LAOS<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUbGInSid4bV8pjW7OHl5rlUGm6WfMRhluT45_QDcmSVJVjs2rSldct2976kUyMQ0t0YQJX__CIIp8LxQsJnuLzHVX5qxulDlc_3czggh4LznjZWo2sUmxdvIlf8Sk1ti4JqiNuNZBbaM/s1600/IMG_2191.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUbGInSid4bV8pjW7OHl5rlUGm6WfMRhluT45_QDcmSVJVjs2rSldct2976kUyMQ0t0YQJX__CIIp8LxQsJnuLzHVX5qxulDlc_3czggh4LznjZWo2sUmxdvIlf8Sk1ti4JqiNuNZBbaM/s400/IMG_2191.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674798586208978290" /></a>Cambodia was a few notches more relaxed and slower paced than Vietnam. Laos made even Cambodia feel hectic. After a short flight from Siem Reap to the Lao province of Champasak, which surrounds the Mekong River at one of its flattest and widest areas, we boarded our converted logging boat.<div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVepFNhVd_chiD90qo8J6Z6cBu3eoh5VLpgL-R8hvaNWF8tZBwTX8UCcTewvbzOzKhjCzW7DKlAw_CI5c1hfO6V5ptjRWKrx0agxZ1YtC2-6QhHI5UNLpDhcvm6daFiHT47Bs2LQumXu8/s1600/IMG_2147.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVepFNhVd_chiD90qo8J6Z6cBu3eoh5VLpgL-R8hvaNWF8tZBwTX8UCcTewvbzOzKhjCzW7DKlAw_CI5c1hfO6V5ptjRWKrx0agxZ1YtC2-6QhHI5UNLpDhcvm6daFiHT47Bs2LQumXu8/s400/IMG_2147.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674798157540810050" /></a>In colonial times the French tried to turn the Mekong into a transport corridor for trade and development of Indochina. They used boats like this to transport goods up river and monitor teak logs they floated down river toward Saigon. The plan was never quite profitable, and this sleepy corner of an already sleepy country remained largely unchanged despite the flurry of upheaval and war in surrounding provinces and countries.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzaKJ2kmIXsWLR1p4uAtVwGb9uP_9yjtURXhaQyI28noakbtbYEybq0jr_RS9GZQm1vl00NTLI1GXAqG83zKlBCcyUHCqmdXICQgc0UDWgWoQdM-JeQuSb55ADcl87BRq2JpmeFuHUIk0/s1600/IMG_2060.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzaKJ2kmIXsWLR1p4uAtVwGb9uP_9yjtURXhaQyI28noakbtbYEybq0jr_RS9GZQm1vl00NTLI1GXAqG83zKlBCcyUHCqmdXICQgc0UDWgWoQdM-JeQuSb55ADcl87BRq2JpmeFuHUIk0/s400/IMG_2060.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674797618542668546" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1KR_4G32SBy0leNP2PT7sOzFrF9G4CcwFhYXhrDMBsQSZKXhp5Bs1yuT_kBHy2dm_nwJ4qd3XN3EBJ8KJvs-U65FV6K4zh8c0sMiYUVFs1GEtrycWeER7G9cJULOQH_ea1cnHIWVhauA/s1600/IMG_2067.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1KR_4G32SBy0leNP2PT7sOzFrF9G4CcwFhYXhrDMBsQSZKXhp5Bs1yuT_kBHy2dm_nwJ4qd3XN3EBJ8KJvs-U65FV6K4zh8c0sMiYUVFs1GEtrycWeER7G9cJULOQH_ea1cnHIWVhauA/s400/IMG_2067.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674797356635863650" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUus68crIxgYSZTWlu6415IwdtxuukbgCQa_rRTH0Ne5ZMX4oV98hMFAtBX0afICKRhKhKws8scgnDARLJ5fhWpIBWQuNP3Hnj6J5jkGBx0e8JUpLigTasJ09N8T2RRgfYjI_cgp-QRqc/s1600/IMG_2068.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUus68crIxgYSZTWlu6415IwdtxuukbgCQa_rRTH0Ne5ZMX4oV98hMFAtBX0afICKRhKhKws8scgnDARLJ5fhWpIBWQuNP3Hnj6J5jkGBx0e8JUpLigTasJ09N8T2RRgfYjI_cgp-QRqc/s400/IMG_2068.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674797062125114706" /></a>Languid is the best word to describe this part of the world. The river drifts slowly along, small villages line the banks, and the sun and humidity mean life proceeds at a relaxed pace as it has for a very long time.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1SDpVult7Xw5P_GtCp9SBcAz49YSwx7_QDdgJZJFi87qCR2d7hxoEFWllYp5p_liZLpgRXRav-7ngvLWx88KsPsyC8THVwUw_4ECFuEyUufl5yjEztqP0antapn6BuBQM0NyPSdDUiAs/s1600/IMG_2117.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1SDpVult7Xw5P_GtCp9SBcAz49YSwx7_QDdgJZJFi87qCR2d7hxoEFWllYp5p_liZLpgRXRav-7ngvLWx88KsPsyC8THVwUw_4ECFuEyUufl5yjEztqP0antapn6BuBQM0NyPSdDUiAs/s400/IMG_2117.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674796831101204802" /></a>The area was not always a quiet backwater. In fact, before the Tai people (including the majority of ethnic Lao) migrated down the river in the 8th century, this region was the original homeland of the Khmer, part of the Lao-Thoeng (upland Lao) ethnic category. The Khmer migrated from what is today southern Laos to the flat lands of Cambodia and the Mekong Delta, forming there a network of pre-Angkorian townships that the Chinese called Funan around the 2nd century CE. The Funan evolved into a more developed civilization known (also by the Chinese, who traded with all of these peoples) as Chenla. "Water" Chenla was located in the Mekong Delta, while "Land" Chenla was centered near the town of Champasak. Some ruins of the capital survive, semi-hidden below a small village on the side of the river. The Khmer never forgot their origins, and as the empire's power grew in the 8th century, they expanded into Champasak and built a beautiful temple linked to Angkor by a stone road. We visited the ruins of that temple, Wat Phu. </div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgka3t5c7zrxtjtxffH2fvwfvry3wEvEjbgq-UABXomTBrDvmq1ZA9cmuEl9x1FGnB1ObeMEG8P_lH4rla1oeNBGszoZAXxD6oat0gb3vn-Ntnir9l2W2CYmOc1NmT9Etd-O4PrbBbF_Y/s1600/IMG_2077.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgka3t5c7zrxtjtxffH2fvwfvry3wEvEjbgq-UABXomTBrDvmq1ZA9cmuEl9x1FGnB1ObeMEG8P_lH4rla1oeNBGszoZAXxD6oat0gb3vn-Ntnir9l2W2CYmOc1NmT9Etd-O4PrbBbF_Y/s400/IMG_2077.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674796281392855058" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEL9R3OIDvXmjurjjA6uBOjvjVYcgZby2kN9UJdTElL209pyXN6PIJhS8MAFHLVP1HCq3GNi_YEgB1RACoWBejmRWJJJmTtk3UsqiyfassILKYug-eMf42eU9GsD5Pb89tCbXkrgUXRig/s1600/IMG_2081.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEL9R3OIDvXmjurjjA6uBOjvjVYcgZby2kN9UJdTElL209pyXN6PIJhS8MAFHLVP1HCq3GNi_YEgB1RACoWBejmRWJJJmTtk3UsqiyfassILKYug-eMf42eU9GsD5Pb89tCbXkrgUXRig/s400/IMG_2081.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674795987817525906" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW-CNE6-oBR9QBfn1YRtov1lbBuEHHHXKR_l95DfayDizXy7-9UZJLcFdLHnrOxILtxUd10CTc0n7zlGaHlfp0vshrIEmtOYrC5ISJXsm-UnKnFzZVuMsxGcMOi31ri7yJm6aFd6VBlGA/s1600/IMG_2087.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW-CNE6-oBR9QBfn1YRtov1lbBuEHHHXKR_l95DfayDizXy7-9UZJLcFdLHnrOxILtxUd10CTc0n7zlGaHlfp0vshrIEmtOYrC5ISJXsm-UnKnFzZVuMsxGcMOi31ri7yJm6aFd6VBlGA/s400/IMG_2087.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674795669144468130" /></a>The temple is built into the side of a mountain at the location of a natural spring where the Chenla civilization had built an earlier temple. In fact, the people who inhabited the area before the arrival of Hinduism likely worshipped animal spirits at this same spot, which commands an amazing view of the river valley below.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0R4rJDMTyYF6hWYWICJd5iIQ7Fo6xRnGL25KZdEeK-BWkcZhxbF4C-P67cVqvb6Z6g6Hz6WoILNm3Lit6thRM16-aucr_sdF2E6gNvVY1PaiUlXxOT5-6tZMU90u8QgHZSnfcvPntUWA/s1600/IMG_2093.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0R4rJDMTyYF6hWYWICJd5iIQ7Fo6xRnGL25KZdEeK-BWkcZhxbF4C-P67cVqvb6Z6g6Hz6WoILNm3Lit6thRM16-aucr_sdF2E6gNvVY1PaiUlXxOT5-6tZMU90u8QgHZSnfcvPntUWA/s400/IMG_2093.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674795187725967522" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqFiN9YGO21JCYy4QOaX1Gv3pOeZydRmgCqiETzw_eqdsu57YcQ6fw0_9Pmv86WhNSwnuVF5mqhLxqZDTXgq1nVcdAt6vPNdqEydFNfuPyXSCNBakdedAmJZfRTRUy3mY8WC1d0grTGu0/s1600/IMG_2124.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqFiN9YGO21JCYy4QOaX1Gv3pOeZydRmgCqiETzw_eqdsu57YcQ6fw0_9Pmv86WhNSwnuVF5mqhLxqZDTXgq1nVcdAt6vPNdqEydFNfuPyXSCNBakdedAmJZfRTRUy3mY8WC1d0grTGu0/s400/IMG_2124.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674794776715977890" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiejstSOGGCtRoS-5vmVuiYAIrjUTH7qYDEpHhu1dRqHABVsy9jz0ivEX3UyJBBkl-qT-QACogND9z7BlUmGDtlewlwc0Ca0v2TebbCJSU7DUNxnFTSX5zfXjDxH_pyoqDs2paO9PBB0KA/s1600/IMG_2187.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiejstSOGGCtRoS-5vmVuiYAIrjUTH7qYDEpHhu1dRqHABVsy9jz0ivEX3UyJBBkl-qT-QACogND9z7BlUmGDtlewlwc0Ca0v2TebbCJSU7DUNxnFTSX5zfXjDxH_pyoqDs2paO9PBB0KA/s400/IMG_2187.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674794272744964610" /></a>After exploring the temple and the view we headed back to the boat for two days of nothing but slow floating. Above, a temple in a riverside village.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM7k1Lm-GBeXPzUXEHZp1bTpChPpxjogp8OWp8z3TVBTuP1AQ4eg_y4S9Cq-8qXsbCs2Ut-dMu6Q2K8wjDK4QDem7h_ycT53rCIARM6yS9KySbiW80GTghHK3jQVJNzRfXZwbmmS9c0lk/s1600/IMG_2151.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM7k1Lm-GBeXPzUXEHZp1bTpChPpxjogp8OWp8z3TVBTuP1AQ4eg_y4S9Cq-8qXsbCs2Ut-dMu6Q2K8wjDK4QDem7h_ycT53rCIARM6yS9KySbiW80GTghHK3jQVJNzRfXZwbmmS9c0lk/s400/IMG_2151.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674793944979154146" /></a>We actually stopped in one small fishing village to explore. It was was completely free of tourist infrastructure. No selling of trinkets and little interest in us meant our first real village visit (and there would be many more) was quiet and peaceful. The company that runs the boat supports the village school, though I found out later that they do not give very much and I wish we had come prepared with supplies for the kids or something else helpful. Something to consider before coming to this region of the world.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE2KzT4wjDx1fLCRARNpsgOkt-FbcTJIL9h8u8AUreVGVqo0AY9Y8p5cn5_7V3yOISfBUfH3mvFVymCir6s_hsnVRdr_mk-bRD6U0SkaWnmOP8i0PvksV1f6nkfPhV0lQjgi7WFqGO3nc/s1600/IMG_2156.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE2KzT4wjDx1fLCRARNpsgOkt-FbcTJIL9h8u8AUreVGVqo0AY9Y8p5cn5_7V3yOISfBUfH3mvFVymCir6s_hsnVRdr_mk-bRD6U0SkaWnmOP8i0PvksV1f6nkfPhV0lQjgi7WFqGO3nc/s400/IMG_2156.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674793539351077330" /></a>The village was poor, but not destitute. People had work, were well fed, and the temple was well supplied. Everyone has a television, electricity and a satellite dish with Thai TV channels. </div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVF3_TyDhOPbXOeyogwrHb6FarDh7kMbAsoAP83nyYHIOBJMybqpwPjfpCvEYZCPSYyBczdsEhlEcuQW7ShzVYQWKl_T-77teE_gjPeI-U9v08Bt7sWlatWtYxf2TtxmgtoWqFqYM-9lY/s1600/IMG_2159.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVF3_TyDhOPbXOeyogwrHb6FarDh7kMbAsoAP83nyYHIOBJMybqpwPjfpCvEYZCPSYyBczdsEhlEcuQW7ShzVYQWKl_T-77teE_gjPeI-U9v08Bt7sWlatWtYxf2TtxmgtoWqFqYM-9lY/s400/IMG_2159.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674793162821545394" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq_rpvHGFYEyCYtyqJeYOieVH6r8UXg7D4cckbxkEuA-1fLw9J3Ntrfj4-Bi6QjI2w_9OSMcvdLf4r0x6p4hjcNjBzJz8Kodc14X3JdKHjAkK48qfbUNzPTg0KYqOeqof-KskfzSPBUOE/s1600/IMG_2203.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq_rpvHGFYEyCYtyqJeYOieVH6r8UXg7D4cckbxkEuA-1fLw9J3Ntrfj4-Bi6QjI2w_9OSMcvdLf4r0x6p4hjcNjBzJz8Kodc14X3JdKHjAkK48qfbUNzPTg0KYqOeqof-KskfzSPBUOE/s400/IMG_2203.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674792632493245218" /></a>Typical Lao-Loum (lowland Lao) houses are built on stilts to protect against river flooding and also create an outdoor zone for living and storage. These houses are built from mahogany with some interesting architectural flourishes.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYGdiGltbu3Fhg5l5mi6lSS_a1rfIQjtEVDX8wzrbWhRVCwhS79hhOYU5w7Z3y9WrrnnDqeZKHuEEeduTjjvfZ-MbZRLFpO4wdD0NhGEM4itBTAOlESBrlxNn9lB51Y7UyIwE_rKBU6_Q/s1600/IMG_2219.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYGdiGltbu3Fhg5l5mi6lSS_a1rfIQjtEVDX8wzrbWhRVCwhS79hhOYU5w7Z3y9WrrnnDqeZKHuEEeduTjjvfZ-MbZRLFpO4wdD0NhGEM4itBTAOlESBrlxNn9lB51Y7UyIwE_rKBU6_Q/s400/IMG_2219.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674792356703672178" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv_EqEqGzyTjysCsw4mPZre5dNRujDSjKs9pA_S4N1IR93bocPqbtb6YqN5pS4IOKazGoRRdirxWBYyqavZFWFwHxPZZRRWxhcKmNAKwhjMT6I7rbf0mKIAvpJq-Ma95FXYkfQCXzHGck/s1600/IMG_2220.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv_EqEqGzyTjysCsw4mPZre5dNRujDSjKs9pA_S4N1IR93bocPqbtb6YqN5pS4IOKazGoRRdirxWBYyqavZFWFwHxPZZRRWxhcKmNAKwhjMT6I7rbf0mKIAvpJq-Ma95FXYkfQCXzHGck/s400/IMG_2220.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674792177012470050" /></a>Morning on the Mekong.</div><div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVPo0Zak3Ov-_Vlxob8GqZoN377lv8IjKruFdtBY7jCdes8IwEo4ClDUXXsdwkg9wHwD5DCubzkKEuq8Cd9VXYJtmxULCMch1FODRGXUS4B860PJr6GRyXYvRKDmFGHkukY9A5_AIN2rs/s400/IMG_2251.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674791617265730002" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYr9dg3VsbUoBpCcQT001vowyFhi2bp85atGBMjjJoAhdF9ZnCwdQEeLLUR8anbpRtNatT8xLJnHvXEbtkKMXVMWJ8V1sRIbG70ml3C_DTYRFSURax2-u8MHfHzmK7IN7-TKd0aCDB1Tw/s1600/IMG_2243.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></div><div>The second day we stopped at Khon and Det islands, backpacker havens and the last navigable part of the Mekong before the Cambodian border. We looked for, but did not see, any rare Irrawaddy Dolphins in the waters. Maybe next time.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYr9dg3VsbUoBpCcQT001vowyFhi2bp85atGBMjjJoAhdF9ZnCwdQEeLLUR8anbpRtNatT8xLJnHvXEbtkKMXVMWJ8V1sRIbG70ml3C_DTYRFSURax2-u8MHfHzmK7IN7-TKd0aCDB1Tw/s1600/IMG_2243.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYr9dg3VsbUoBpCcQT001vowyFhi2bp85atGBMjjJoAhdF9ZnCwdQEeLLUR8anbpRtNatT8xLJnHvXEbtkKMXVMWJ8V1sRIbG70ml3C_DTYRFSURax2-u8MHfHzmK7IN7-TKd0aCDB1Tw/s400/IMG_2243.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674791907262558290" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-RlkM_BoEwA3E_7YYat0UuMEaIfM3TX42OWmrQsStjwLp9SS87uYpLj10q9iyXs5utsyU9ZxN2lkhTsUVoHqGuApaP2cjSBI4Bv6neidshDhelGW-ClXknprz6wKeWfcw2sdTXjNye1s/s1600/IMG_2257.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-RlkM_BoEwA3E_7YYat0UuMEaIfM3TX42OWmrQsStjwLp9SS87uYpLj10q9iyXs5utsyU9ZxN2lkhTsUVoHqGuApaP2cjSBI4Bv6neidshDhelGW-ClXknprz6wKeWfcw2sdTXjNye1s/s400/IMG_2257.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674791297931070754" /></a>Some defunct French colonial architecture.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiGE6eUH8dUXpvPixVzq4PALJacvDD0oHxHIFiDrYkRJJBEOZN_mOI9Fot77zIJh1DzSSLWNm14a3WrvI3iIbVwuhtpcM9b46Kzhm28fHgMX8XuHe5OACn4DRvk5GpteeTUx6_ktLEKII/s1600/IMG_2270.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiGE6eUH8dUXpvPixVzq4PALJacvDD0oHxHIFiDrYkRJJBEOZN_mOI9Fot77zIJh1DzSSLWNm14a3WrvI3iIbVwuhtpcM9b46Kzhm28fHgMX8XuHe5OACn4DRvk5GpteeTUx6_ktLEKII/s1600/IMG_2270.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiGE6eUH8dUXpvPixVzq4PALJacvDD0oHxHIFiDrYkRJJBEOZN_mOI9Fot77zIJh1DzSSLWNm14a3WrvI3iIbVwuhtpcM9b46Kzhm28fHgMX8XuHe5OACn4DRvk5GpteeTUx6_ktLEKII/s400/IMG_2270.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674791018512652674" /></a></div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-22193387816468231792011-11-09T06:18:00.053-05:002011-11-13T11:38:47.273-05:00CAMBODIA<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivE4_-lekLsQMuj_2YCyyyPJIEW0PCMM3_rT8UFhv4-UgEJEBid7q1KddfK9fuQWR5Ukpni-DvKHxJWfPqA2x18EaIWLVTbftcseNy3SGrJeArPAM1cBaMzke8UchyphenhyphenerwT-Tx_gLjm1l8/s1600/IMG_1912.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivE4_-lekLsQMuj_2YCyyyPJIEW0PCMM3_rT8UFhv4-UgEJEBid7q1KddfK9fuQWR5Ukpni-DvKHxJWfPqA2x18EaIWLVTbftcseNy3SGrJeArPAM1cBaMzke8UchyphenhyphenerwT-Tx_gLjm1l8/s400/IMG_1912.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673538637109614306" /></a>We left Saigon and flew directly to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Our itinerary allowed for only two full days... not nearly enough for our only stop in the country. I knew before we even landed that I wanted to come back and explore so much more. That said, no extended trip in Southeast Asia should skip the temples of Angkor, located just a few miles from Siem Reap, so we made the most of our two days. After nearly two weeks in Vietnam ending in cosmopolitan Saigon, the pace, language, food and climate of Cambodia felt really exotic.<div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMVxKAqeuBqEBL_2T3cb95nYNsBhz-CAW3bltoVs0wJ3Qv6mJFmcOO5pcUm9AngRShh-Mz1nib9or9k4VQHQDCiXQPMiziCoB3PfV2ljzwfeZ6_bGMBg9VY7rbZ7JVpMwVCkwWdEXqTgg/s400/IMG_1735.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673402797289149586" />Most of Cambodia is pancake-flat former shallow seabed that now forms a surface for the Mekong and Tonle Sap Rivers to meander slowly along towards the delta in Vietnam. During the wet season, so much water makes its way down the Mekong that the broad, flat delta backs up, actually reversing the flow of the Tonle Sap River and filling Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake. Above you can see the lake at its fullest, flooding surrounding rice fields, with Siem Reap in the background.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglx8ofQw5OaGid-k4NR4cAsBYCfu-v3d2dCZZdR8JDECP65bnol5Hmj1tNdb9IdSjfYU0wNiUGAuCl-dwJtkYtDLXeWdtrjkn8PMUFB4f22-QJ-EQo2HAKk10psAOffbdEtwlXfCRlcUM/s400/IMG_1730.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673403259906626818" />The lake is home to hundreds of species of birds, turtles, and fish. The flow of all this water also makes the plains of Cambodia highly productive farming land. Residents of floating villages on the edges of Tonle Sap ride out the floods every year. We could see some of the villages as we landed.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUArL-PWM_581aMUWkvVkD001dw2aguzfdgieWwU0pZXl77QeakZbMJcRCQSq4f6tYF4Rwul2OaQX30eNdKqbA4QvBJoZ2mgORWoQYsRC4BZKENf51ja9Eq6Iylk_0kSv2P9txWhn69IQ/s400/IMG_1749.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673401772739947666" />All this fertile land led to the rise of one of the world's most accomplished and glorious civilizations, the Khmer Empire. While the Viet overthrew Chinese rule in northern Vietnam and the Cham Empire flourished in central Vietnam, the Cambodian plain as well as the lower Mekong, southern Laos and eastern Thailand were held by the mighty Khmer Empire from 802-1432. The Khmers are ethnically distinct from their neighbors but were also influenced by India and Java. They practiced Hindu and later Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism (often mixing and overlapping all three) and took religious architecture to staggering new heights with construction of their temples, irrigation systems and cities. Above, Prasat Kravan, a smaller Hindu temple built from brick in 921 by priests on what was then the outskirts of central Angkor. The simpler 5-tower configuration shows an earlier Angkor style, as does the brick building material. The relief sculptures inside were really beautiful.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdnrMbqaVrt_8fnS3S2-c0-9ET-6Rt0wFHeQ_rGU7XGmIAXvRWcp54CqnV-6ySr3xW6Cm_D_fUT20XBmSSZgBJGFs4OmCTzAVzHeU3bns2eEVChNojrqR5SiJ_vFB1Uh91RwhTnkPAZUw/s400/IMG_1747.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673402289585584178" /><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid8LgDRhjyowViS_8OjKbl0KU4Ip3-Te6t8DYr6gJAddKFSWBEIqW_6oXaXjrEi157aLLSR42QsLHKpQWkIjqXgMDXO6uFWO6Q9KXhiA-qT2WAwmyfXjYCfq9JWXbjX8zmzkkp0E9pEvg/s400/IMG_1753.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673401046857295586" />The first king of a united Khmer Empire was Jayavarman II who proclaimed himself god-king and built several temples at various capitals around the area starting in 802. His successors, via inheritance or usurpation, built their own temples in an ever-evolving style in different locations near Angkor, which was quickly becoming a sprawling epicenter of empire. Above, Pre Rup, a temple built by King Rajendravarman II in the late 10th century. You can see the linear set up of towers has given way to the square configuration, with the largest tower in the center representing Mt. Meru, the Hindu home of the gods.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWpfDR2qSwj7AVPkQLxO6EMI-oKAjDNE1TBVaw9doSJYXJdkLVs99jzCyw-xq3S1yT08ZyFQuwJnJCMP3A-oMRhjgfNSXalIcagCknbhO30rairnLpKixKRa4DtP3SzRa0AVQNvaT4oo8/s400/IMG_1759.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673400285552552642" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQBnkpeT9qeVb07Oidap7jL-3IUpgpSFwPBFEkbrFn8GWB0-CwThsKs1YV3NTAiD_sXyOFxEEQdrRVr4U7ePz7nAHZjVFxuY_jPFIj0wnOoQmXsRa21AK9zl8Op9CvdX2W_VoKBg3SV6Q/s400/IMG_1768.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673399516483027010" />The material of choice became sandstone hauled from afar, and carving advanced with each successive build. Each king sought to legitimize his rule with a yet grander project. Older temples were renovated or altered by later kings. Pre Rup actually became the royal crematorium after new rulers came to power. The Khmer also built absolutely massive reservoirs with complex irrigation networks, and the surrounding towns continued to grow.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpot9KgyYeNkyKZILvkUXkz2znYh6JCfGw36_rymXxtdeZ6117zVLWRRXkvprAhdi0tAbHQRRP39LwfjCP3UaCGr_xbj00QeO61pZkiMhmbPV0OBQ_6M5OVdvZNgfquIrzChX3ZHIwc4I/s400/IMG_1804.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673396652481241762" />An example of an early temple that was rebuilt by later kings is Banteay Srei, located a few miles from central Angkor. This was perhaps the most beautiful temple we saw, delicately carved from pink sandstone and well restored by the French. The temple was originally built in the 10th century, then altered in the 13th or 14th century. You can see the much more elaborate carving work.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyEPVy1KT6MGfF5He37LdTrj4ACs0HrByMlkewY49hE-fzTivtqwFL1w8iFZ7Bx0Tdx1u3PPdnA3DxfShGyu-5Oo6XaRGVftGmqrROqpkrSISqnALsG_5suQGxVj1vjbVi2bQBrgEMI2s/s400/IMG_1809.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673395744483492210" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimSXL49XYomqQrRvWTCS2bKu-00zMOE99Rk3JaDqtOA_OnzpVa3GDhaqjgu4Lb7rVnQ0PrONPqNqc50AcydZ_ZnkHL8_gZkr-btanGvWNcm1BjNX1cszjOfXL56rDfI1FlF9S7NOouph8/s400/IMG_1813.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673395135428960866" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl6SPieTnhZL9Q2JkI6dnDg1i8403sg1NQpFY3YNZ3s2qd_f_o6DebmGZe3OoH62TpngKnejYBK0FLTh-mXArAAm1woZID89alipzuTnsyoV5BYscOi98btkEf0N4s3oCcR72F3ZakCG8/s400/IMG_1816.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673394308348931570" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1gRzVCY7c9wqPpVV2-eY9tWElchDB-bQt27USwgigGZNr7_sB132uq8hkjceR-j27DDyxXQTI8uJgZnCjFVEdbS-kkgHbN-TfhExQLC24gkLuhDm_LPbhJeoc25T-lRxF4KH8ofWEwuE/s400/IMG_1827.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673393426577272978" />Bantrey Srei was not built by a king, but by a wealthy brahmin, a testament to the growing wealth around Angkor by the 10th century.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaTQgpUZc5folFSmYS_ywtxo45Dussi1MR50LA4ge_0dT9dG32BNkq7VpY5B5uXmnC6MzXqphOlAwuDDRudjHLu48S_qF57sEIVuj3XKJv4vctxFVw6mU1hMKicq2MEU-OHq38ZkUcSII/s400/IMG_1791.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673398331177748210" />We took a break from temple hopping to explore the <a href="http://www.mekong.net/cambodia/akira.htm">Landmine Museum</a> near Banteay Srei. Fast forward in Cambodia's history from the 10th to the 20th century. The then long-decayed Khmer Empire, torn by war with powerful neighbors (Thailand actually took control over the area around Angkor for several years) and weakened by environmental degradation of the surrounding land, had moved the capital from Angkor to Phnom Penh. French colonizers stepped in and made Cambodia a protectorate as they took control of much of Southeast Asia. After World War II Cambodia was granted nominal independence but was drawn into the First Indochina War as Viet Minh forces trained Khmer fighters as part of the larger struggle against colonialism. As the First Indochina War gave way to the second and the US became involved in the region, things really came undone. Cambodia was destabilized and torn by civil war between the US-backed Lon Nol government and the Khmer Rouge, a mix of communist fighters and those loyal to the deposed king. The eastern part of the country was heavily bombed and US and South Vietnamese forces invaded, at one point occupying Angkor. When Saigon fell to the North Vietnamese in 1975 after nearly a decade of war, the victorious Khmer Rouge marched into Phnom Penh nearly unopposed.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUwczRqnxupTCDzfAiCj98oK-zJZ07BONjDgbJymPapAiLf34rIogtJwXPUhs9uq7E7_x3q_cruCWlxFrtZADK4BBlsMZwGBTpT9Rsw2LXRcHdSlZpVH4UpIhAspxfZ3qI8JHG-AAjTzI/s400/IMG_1792.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673397503857453490" />The Khmer Rouge victory was, quite literally, merely the beginning of the suffering Cambodia would face. Khmer Rouge leader, Pol Pot, ordered complete evacuation of cities, abolished currency, executed intellectuals, opponents and rivals, and declared a new world order. 1975 became "Year 0" as everything from the past was swept away and hundreds of thousands were murdered. While here, I read Francois Bizot's <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gate-Francois-Bizot/dp/037541293X">The Gate</a>, </i>a terrifying firsthand account of the moments after Phnom Penh fell. It is chilling to see into the brutal motivations of such a terrifying social revolution. After five years of horror, during which millions died of disease and famine, the Vietnamese invaded and deposed the Khmer Rouge. Bloody fighting continued for a decade and millions more starved in the aftermath. The Vietnamese, in an attempt to seal out escaped Khmer Rouge fighters that fled to the Thai border, planted millions of land mines in border provinces, which continue to kill and mame to this day. Even the international aid mounted by the rest of the world in the 1980's became a part of the broader Cold War struggle, with the Thai government convincing aid agencies and the UN to use supply lines originating on Thai soil rather than through the Vietnamese-backed communist interim government in Phnom Penh. This effectively rearmed the Khmer Rouge and prolonged the fighting for years. Peace finally came with the withdrawal of the Vietnamese and UN sponsored elections in the 1990's that actually brought several Khmer Rouge to trial (and folded others into the government). Needless to say, there are few places on earth that have been dragged through the mud quite like Cambodia. Even in touristy Siem Reap, this reality can be felt.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDT-F0RGf6g1PP-GiUFua6Jg4_fw0GDDYEqYuC_-HKc5rnB7icHOjqcQZZLKXUdzKT5EEVKtMSfrJs8WMgRtShn7R1KdHqrPlkgsZUDJeSUf78Hck_xvMoj_avigEE4EU5NGXz-OoPng0/s400/IMG_1865.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673387862927438898" />Rewinding back to the 12th century and continuing our temple tour, we stopped at Angkor's most atmospheric ruin, Ta Prohm. This temple, built by Jayavarman VII in 1186 towards the beginning of Angkor's decline, was not completely cleared of the encroaching jungle when it was restored, and the air of shaded mystery remains despite the crushing crowds of tourists.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhheEJ-12HGZjYx3n7MURPaafBXp0fvVHcX9vxeMib0Q4egbi07ecXdhChJgMVY4U7gn2pgBXrYIMEflx3IH6vdhNk-9cZwktf1ydyNrA9YhKvL8wuut0Lfc6LvoUmKClucDKi6ype2tQ4/s400/IMG_1849.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673392427368275378" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfQ989GJsxyFgHrVQvXKVSdCb60JV7jG0YpYdEb5dpvnMPF5vuJKV3dhGhTpKe7j_Zt863jinHX0bq2Rf-AydpnI16vJVK0R16ppWh9PzUpgRIIwoVvK8fnBi5OTSUiWTKeO30hN_eU1M/s400/IMG_1853.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673391353672439762" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisieY6ffS-0ZQ4fZgNZWJM5K8IkF-nG2YEdUKZOswC9UvYjdk-L6EDmaMRTKjjFA_Sq8oOI44GiNcaiZ6sl7TlJh_6Tg9ZcBCO0OC2kjUB3l1ZkOq2_c-7d63Ad4DrsVV3kvXXU7n89qM/s400/IMG_1857.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673390267249427474" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcDaO5-zAugUlxNutp_l_o1keS8bSdXTjW6EvmRTrm7vZ9iDJOQG5Hv44ynF1a9l6r3UIZBFkMldXJOssHfJPjzIbZ9yeEU9kre_hK0uoVGVJQXSKrcTgFbKL_3vzTuUI7g_1HrJ6nxZ0/s400/IMG_1860.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673389555205307490" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh92TaQo8QNHeaDvBmCnI-rczLLFswEJhyphenhyphenIQ3Ksr5FbuysfmzwSkYCXMARYbvc9J9iAt3ppQAk-Cv3DY4z08q4DsGvRv3-JZpi86dsamcC50irLdFqJucJ8gF_8_Qoplo8ArtSKjKBKe7Y/s400/IMG_1863.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673388609468272690" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLLu5OA39iD4CMZOcMg98e8FnWrXJTwp00F75tHesWH2IWfOc8g05f7JosBSc3MeWuwe5Vv_RfA9kuRP1_DC3lG6uK0VRJ-A6iAKOn6LeMdp1mGduhtCwTGt3_I0SSiN94HgTO3PFXJ_Q/s400/IMG_1869.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673387099975106658" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgGY-sOnqAIocBE9bQzWcgTRjrxYyLyGg8WfrYymmrvD6fkg5epLKDOfICb2fiE8f2nELRn_zL7_XKFDFxwdOmxNRLBg9HlwrqgEbponbsWHMkKQ6qUE-owyTSuY_N6CqitoZS1EskgxE/s400/IMG_1872.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673386347775660258" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1cf_sNaOmkLu_QveFNyHQQu8z9uN5qLXaMa5T5zUADLdIpUEXVYQT7nzbbHony5KNsyj9zWKzZui1m73AWREhRHXTzxviYr2fEojKy5zgwbddP7FyQX_L8MYM6h9MUmhefTgKXQKQfQ0/s400/IMG_1887.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673385642262125330" />The sheer number of temples and ruins is mind boggling, and is even more impressive when you remember that they were all surrounded by a bustling city instead of lush jungle.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzOysBBEk_L0n_i-3M8H3BlURQ4CrGs1OJ2phW_k_OJNRUX_kEawhYK6wJJ1L_oRhidV2zhvUAWTPkVfFKBgCJki5JUT6NIMoUwVEXywY5ZX5-fYshSJ1LK89sReTLAmxsCXlD27VAH8s/s400/IMG_1912.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673403948607285170" /><div style="text-align: left;">We ended our day at the most impressive of all: Angkor Wat. This was one of the few temples that was never fully abandoned after the move of the capital from Angkor to Phnom Penh. Built by King Suryvarman II in the early and mid 12th century, this temple and mausoleum was literally a city within the city, housing thousands of priests and attendants.</div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8z1IPuxNXEp3UvKiOgNACucKOeuSCOynUxbNjRXAROMyyE3tpgRFFRNKQlOX8ToJAoyADbb4PWp6bb5duZjrBLKLnpy6S51fw9tWQ0O1j-yR5HoQHphRI8ORgczoCBTwMMs9U5PZDruA/s400/IMG_1922.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673384829370819858" /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDMsnajOATVzO-lfmVdcZcXYubf7Mxbde03rW1dcKrDJOfrhsyaqWA_Uhxvv9ddTtGNwBTUXvIqJjPNLorzYqVLQZltS1nFJmgGf0eNc-QQAHqewIyl-dYLghLJOgb015U-SKOz5agyoU/s1600/IMG_1924.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDMsnajOATVzO-lfmVdcZcXYubf7Mxbde03rW1dcKrDJOfrhsyaqWA_Uhxvv9ddTtGNwBTUXvIqJjPNLorzYqVLQZltS1nFJmgGf0eNc-QQAHqewIyl-dYLghLJOgb015U-SKOz5agyoU/s400/IMG_1924.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673384118589028226" /></a>Angkor Wat sits within a moat that measures nearly a mile square. The outer corridors of the first level of the structure itself are over 2600 feet long and covered with intricate bass relief carvings depicting Hindu legends and historical events.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBcOoSxXa7TH41g4_C0z6UFW0wxrE2PA9CpIJXju2uY7jRAoQToFKsTpA4zM3YCDlfruT7PDvhycEpcRMvvLUrijKWWDF1GEj5wfbXjZx_xx12CqFUE4GsWu3jsadhPU-hcOlBP2OQwBo/s1600/IMG_1925.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBcOoSxXa7TH41g4_C0z6UFW0wxrE2PA9CpIJXju2uY7jRAoQToFKsTpA4zM3YCDlfruT7PDvhycEpcRMvvLUrijKWWDF1GEj5wfbXjZx_xx12CqFUE4GsWu3jsadhPU-hcOlBP2OQwBo/s400/IMG_1925.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673383484093873970" /></a>The reliefs were once painted in bright plasterwork and gold leaf. Can you imagine how impressive this would have felt to your average 12th century peasant?</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvDlXxguhvxU8iYWiWyCYaPFKO5K2HnSO3dFYMH2DP03ynM4YcW3C33kJ51kwKFDhHj1A_ok6aun5fIPW4BxHULf25uhW2CfGUj2JTXUmuvE6Xff9_ELezXeiQEeYRGYNTCuU0wVI2lg8/s1600/IMG_1935.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvDlXxguhvxU8iYWiWyCYaPFKO5K2HnSO3dFYMH2DP03ynM4YcW3C33kJ51kwKFDhHj1A_ok6aun5fIPW4BxHULf25uhW2CfGUj2JTXUmuvE6Xff9_ELezXeiQEeYRGYNTCuU0wVI2lg8/s400/IMG_1935.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673382908586415442" /></a><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnCDr0tlTQUwijJuQHsAwcm-eXb2s1VLz2N-aomd6fC9g1GaoQ4pNKYNIeyH1aS70yb7L80vjQLpiBv5v_gjAXu0DtfCclw2d-dRwTVhbsEBQeoIZ2a1dBr8hnhQ3KBv-gwcLj3Sw6sPo/s400/IMG_1946.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673380944468422514" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYRSi_Wu-KCX_EUp_b9qTKz8j_zUxJl2l-kIbXHqXhs87soo5qFdZ9Kvsi96xX7w8MtaToAvWrW8nZI7NXb2AVi7WfwbxtnP2HxZf2XiMKHKkUUoDvUTVLlvXxZ9LJN08CPoUWOtBiVq8/s400/IMG_1957.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672967623031761362" />Theravada Buddhism has taken up shop in this once Hindu temple.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1xblefxRyYOxCRGBoSDP5zVJr-Yf_CI6UmojapI6bDAfdy1hybipNRZQwZBvlL3iPVAsN1ISrvLTCsTaBVp7Lpuo0rcyTcshSHQizrqR7ud2s0QY5dtm4MZhlzpXKzu6EVZQcDk1GMqQ/s1600/IMG_1940.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1xblefxRyYOxCRGBoSDP5zVJr-Yf_CI6UmojapI6bDAfdy1hybipNRZQwZBvlL3iPVAsN1ISrvLTCsTaBVp7Lpuo0rcyTcshSHQizrqR7ud2s0QY5dtm4MZhlzpXKzu6EVZQcDk1GMqQ/s1600/IMG_1940.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1xblefxRyYOxCRGBoSDP5zVJr-Yf_CI6UmojapI6bDAfdy1hybipNRZQwZBvlL3iPVAsN1ISrvLTCsTaBVp7Lpuo0rcyTcshSHQizrqR7ud2s0QY5dtm4MZhlzpXKzu6EVZQcDk1GMqQ/s400/IMG_1940.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673382120556873314" /></a>On the second level, huge pools were built to store holy water used for ceremonial purposes.</div><div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0-qBR6x7iN24yH02pV3mTQIrpkyAdCCxBK-TWro7ovUHAyWWbBoqTSHYIrDAWe1peNI6qrnvgzssIKOKRrsOca06t1CPIsxpiNUBH3RpTJLxX4s9Nm6u0WbH8tPOxPlQpUfeXqBSYO6o/s400/IMG_1961.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672965908260611010" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrw0cFgyWluQf2FDfgWt8V8XyZV-_uh8sBQE5iBg-wQkNB5y-eWc3bt03wwReCrEWZZJic-2EGOXzV4lzTLsQ7AJO6jokrAERxUdFkcPlDkhjuGF_6nPSqeeU_RBQtxtTdRcybrvrqSx8/s1600/IMG_1960.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrw0cFgyWluQf2FDfgWt8V8XyZV-_uh8sBQE5iBg-wQkNB5y-eWc3bt03wwReCrEWZZJic-2EGOXzV4lzTLsQ7AJO6jokrAERxUdFkcPlDkhjuGF_6nPSqeeU_RBQtxtTdRcybrvrqSx8/s400/IMG_1960.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672966865529553922" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3s_4UgJD52Pjz3PmojgCNKILjtYaUCfL2RwLeJ0sozlMG3A4dku6YE6ukZJgH5oPkoNdFK6oPAEZWYH4OB1AOH3gzuedd4sW46pwnoY2u-D8L7jGS0Gv70Y2VVkv4OmY9Bo228QNI5SU/s1600/IMG_1969.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3s_4UgJD52Pjz3PmojgCNKILjtYaUCfL2RwLeJ0sozlMG3A4dku6YE6ukZJgH5oPkoNdFK6oPAEZWYH4OB1AOH3gzuedd4sW46pwnoY2u-D8L7jGS0Gv70Y2VVkv4OmY9Bo228QNI5SU/s400/IMG_1969.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672964946538433266" /></a>Again, imagine the entire massive complex painted in bright colors and encrusted with gold. You can see paint remnants, above.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGMZut6SPPmo7nYy9StNwdFQISOwripkZdx9n5Xh4-GqaJnY2lcP5lFk_QmUeWS8jzJxNpWX_wCvyJXsA3J_j9qB_I9jTLFud-7Z_9MRwpfKLAdSQ6Z66XpNKx-yaF63rRive8lGM3-nk/s1600/IMG_1975.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGMZut6SPPmo7nYy9StNwdFQISOwripkZdx9n5Xh4-GqaJnY2lcP5lFk_QmUeWS8jzJxNpWX_wCvyJXsA3J_j9qB_I9jTLFud-7Z_9MRwpfKLAdSQ6Z66XpNKx-yaF63rRive8lGM3-nk/s400/IMG_1975.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672964451634412546" /></a>The sheer size of Angkor Wat (thought to be the largest religious complex on earth) and the fact that the sandstone for its construction was quaried from miles away means it is no surprise that it is considered the high water mark in terms of Angkorian architecture. By the time it was nearly complete, the Khmer Empire was showing signs of strain. In fact, the construction of the temple complex likely contributed to it's downfall, stretching resources and labor to a breaking point and making the empire vulnerable to conquest.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsNhu28nXvdCDSxOGUCNZRlKSnGr8lKfAPZXzGZhzcSY6LxJG1_ZoOaZGi0zZTSR6lRUh94joXspxRnp9p_VaYkktLizGbN4RgAk7xOuYfJsLMV9U2t9ooIQfEO7BfOsf3MHbvTpsYy_M/s1600/IMG_1988.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsNhu28nXvdCDSxOGUCNZRlKSnGr8lKfAPZXzGZhzcSY6LxJG1_ZoOaZGi0zZTSR6lRUh94joXspxRnp9p_VaYkktLizGbN4RgAk7xOuYfJsLMV9U2t9ooIQfEO7BfOsf3MHbvTpsYy_M/s400/IMG_1988.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672963770938354530" /></a>Our second day in Cambodia we drove out to a mountain top Buddhist temple near Tonle Sap Lake to give alms to the monks and watch the sun rise. Just another day in Cambodia.</div><div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbWBlodv6cm99n9Uuq9H1IyLdkAsu4-Zo2em0QFgpHC6m4xpcoRXtJWCAZrIT2DMJYZTFDq1EI8uMOCjSJueOl8mMQBaw4ayXKrYQ4xLhC4bQ9AlCIZxfivNqiVcroRVUjSBd_ECOYsFY/s400/IMG_2005.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672962681843176146" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy2iFkxDQd4tCjsZZzrSKyhGxtKlywsHE79Vn5ooy_Qn2r3UXDRMyEv1_qooTEoS3CbO1BUJengLxZDH3SjumnxNxyVPsQR9SShZj3m_wChZKMlQQ_IBUc-fJTjE3jAEA8gpQkeMhJOxs/s1600/IMG_1998.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy2iFkxDQd4tCjsZZzrSKyhGxtKlywsHE79Vn5ooy_Qn2r3UXDRMyEv1_qooTEoS3CbO1BUJengLxZDH3SjumnxNxyVPsQR9SShZj3m_wChZKMlQQ_IBUc-fJTjE3jAEA8gpQkeMhJOxs/s400/IMG_1998.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672963331224980962" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix6Z5ZR0WuzGHAG1FBHlnXsAjq7a88yJFpVDnhAsqER9d8e_E9-tT657YkC56kpsPYhqCOOHNtI4poV3Cgf3ORkY_M24pPdjwkfSN95yuZgTsbxCZmkx_5xgvJN3P1j_GqVs_SwkX_hWQ/s1600/IMG_2008.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix6Z5ZR0WuzGHAG1FBHlnXsAjq7a88yJFpVDnhAsqER9d8e_E9-tT657YkC56kpsPYhqCOOHNtI4poV3Cgf3ORkY_M24pPdjwkfSN95yuZgTsbxCZmkx_5xgvJN3P1j_GqVs_SwkX_hWQ/s400/IMG_2008.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672961369662270626" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbcCqmhPR_yAVFOYOcjU-wBmKRN6aWzQXnLdrUOGXPeG2vftMTsDzbHVmBykUQWU6-FEXHwWeKf0JHS-7NAF6lSkjdEaBbfxwWIW7uUqoxob-X8UfWRZmljdiS_iPK9tGlC8_oXYj16z8/s1600/IMG_2017.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbcCqmhPR_yAVFOYOcjU-wBmKRN6aWzQXnLdrUOGXPeG2vftMTsDzbHVmBykUQWU6-FEXHwWeKf0JHS-7NAF6lSkjdEaBbfxwWIW7uUqoxob-X8UfWRZmljdiS_iPK9tGlC8_oXYj16z8/s400/IMG_2017.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672959489174355058" /></a>After breakfast on the hilltop, we hiked down and explored the nearby floating village.</div><div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBFO2f6CtvzexhEIY3PLjq1HPajHrGlZxE8kBDqcPZ2pEZzY5pf9ynM8P6tQ_qEWxjPs1QKoVzLpCalCm4LNqRjq__5pUD4nbUB6kt_RXn9oEmsXPOIaw2KCmfMIPTQsJDhBGYc3BOXN4/s400/IMG_2034.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672955457931460482" />Then it was back to the temple complex for one last ruin-hurrah. The last major temple structure built at Angkor is the Bayon and Angkor Thom. Towards the end of the Khmer Empire, Mahayana Buddhism had made inroads and King Jayavarman VII was himself a convert. The weakened kingdom fell under attack from the neighboring Cham Empire in 1177. The Cham sacked the capital city but were later driven out by Jayavarman VII, who built Angkor Thom as the new capital complex adjacent to Angkor Wat. The many carved faces of the Bayon bear resemblance to the king and represent perhaps the last gasp to consolidate and reharnass the power of the empire.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4hFoPVaWNzuiIwlD_uI3Qj-_eba3Z0RYnz4sVCNST4vF-2X2QKp17mPPvvtgwcMjJ7nHMZ5AilKG2Xz3CMqpyYVz20RBG3UI4ePW9dlpWsqBbmDkZeWTWA2UXyYM0FuC3FQu_xHl4FVI/s1600/IMG_2027.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4hFoPVaWNzuiIwlD_uI3Qj-_eba3Z0RYnz4sVCNST4vF-2X2QKp17mPPvvtgwcMjJ7nHMZ5AilKG2Xz3CMqpyYVz20RBG3UI4ePW9dlpWsqBbmDkZeWTWA2UXyYM0FuC3FQu_xHl4FVI/s1600/IMG_2027.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4hFoPVaWNzuiIwlD_uI3Qj-_eba3Z0RYnz4sVCNST4vF-2X2QKp17mPPvvtgwcMjJ7nHMZ5AilKG2Xz3CMqpyYVz20RBG3UI4ePW9dlpWsqBbmDkZeWTWA2UXyYM0FuC3FQu_xHl4FVI/s400/IMG_2027.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672957295346515634" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXtecGLT4uyw4u5TAU9di716mX9ov6jkYyUAMh7mtIYVEAQXLrEC-RI0Pa2N_JyGjUqMY8RWx7l1rCNWrb8L2-rzAhwyaXwE77B_yToEymby6VI2JocJ1qGrnjqmb57ejWsiTH-UzFJj8/s1600/IMG_2032.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXtecGLT4uyw4u5TAU9di716mX9ov6jkYyUAMh7mtIYVEAQXLrEC-RI0Pa2N_JyGjUqMY8RWx7l1rCNWrb8L2-rzAhwyaXwE77B_yToEymby6VI2JocJ1qGrnjqmb57ejWsiTH-UzFJj8/s400/IMG_2032.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672956167652961170" /></a>Eventually the Khmer Empire came apart, state religion lurched back and forth between Hindu and Buddhist dogma, territory was stripped away by the ascendant Siamese (Thai) to the west and the Vietnamese to the east, and Angkor was largely abandoned.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh2RQT_98aZhwkIkdaEVBgtOdSdjUB7G2-QjNM32WqYyqS_D7OB7igA-ocAmkP8-9XyXKxIfA_ZLYAsLkltzpGUi2t8bv_KEvFG8iWefcYg4lL0JgXTxm3xsvvvEaOmjCeZqmRElCOYoc/s1600/IMG_2037.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh2RQT_98aZhwkIkdaEVBgtOdSdjUB7G2-QjNM32WqYyqS_D7OB7igA-ocAmkP8-9XyXKxIfA_ZLYAsLkltzpGUi2t8bv_KEvFG8iWefcYg4lL0JgXTxm3xsvvvEaOmjCeZqmRElCOYoc/s1600/IMG_2037.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh2RQT_98aZhwkIkdaEVBgtOdSdjUB7G2-QjNM32WqYyqS_D7OB7igA-ocAmkP8-9XyXKxIfA_ZLYAsLkltzpGUi2t8bv_KEvFG8iWefcYg4lL0JgXTxm3xsvvvEaOmjCeZqmRElCOYoc/s400/IMG_2037.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672954748033273746" /></a>Abandoned it is no longer, as you can see by the crowds I painstakingly managed to eliminate from all earlier shots. It was a long, hot, exhausting but rewarding two days in Cambodia. It is on the top of my list to go back and explore more of its complex, grand and sometimes horrendous history and meet more of its people.</div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-31456415132399121852011-11-04T10:00:00.001-04:002011-11-04T10:00:11.218-04:00LAST IMPRESSIONS: VIETNAM<img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 334px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbDfeGtyhCBze2Nj518tEMs7tqI4ozcz2JoN3DVECYsbIncfxISKDbfMTvKKp_xTK6WrH9GHOnEhpOt4YKRXcGc-283CYb0sgj50Q4HKGJmlFAWbopwPdM7RHy5fiLP0N5OVghiSRMwIk/s400/IMG_1272.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670358057958078034" />It has been said that sometimes my posts are "long and informative." I'll take it as a compliment, but in the interest of beauty and mystery, here are some lasting impressions of Vietnam as helped by the atmospheric shake-it app on the iPhone. Vietnam is a wonderful place. Let's get romantic, in no particular order.<div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPhp3bxfk8vPz7NBJ6u0BB2Hl-JcpIDDQzg-gC_y2N2nOQoTDwKe5_-k8p8-snwuKdFmhpMoUAz6aOi61ayKHZXJdH3TIj3sGWZ0lXCpcdFjFmqMrkypvb5rlWCBHmj-VnZ4cFyVPOE1A/s1600/IMG_1246.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 334px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuiE_qb6V5ZWhuOjo3pJBNWZPnAX10YACvrJpURAa53fXC6ePpXtYC7XpuZr7pjtJTnhTCWL4gGA6UdXZZGLPM7TEnjNUQraWUkDDhOd821uNVK3sCBT4VDMqH4lKFAhuRYotYl3ktSGA/s400/IMG_1250.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670358823878056146" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPhp3bxfk8vPz7NBJ6u0BB2Hl-JcpIDDQzg-gC_y2N2nOQoTDwKe5_-k8p8-snwuKdFmhpMoUAz6aOi61ayKHZXJdH3TIj3sGWZ0lXCpcdFjFmqMrkypvb5rlWCBHmj-VnZ4cFyVPOE1A/s1600/IMG_1246.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 334px; height: 400px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPhp3bxfk8vPz7NBJ6u0BB2Hl-JcpIDDQzg-gC_y2N2nOQoTDwKe5_-k8p8-snwuKdFmhpMoUAz6aOi61ayKHZXJdH3TIj3sGWZ0lXCpcdFjFmqMrkypvb5rlWCBHmj-VnZ4cFyVPOE1A/s400/IMG_1246.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670358958894486066" /></a><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 334px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_HXNZ74C7najFPfJ-LaKMDMti0Rg0V4QJAy46nKE8ywxr2QMKHXKgMyF7uBQl6sMIXx6ZJdk4kkm5bVa-AMOMfdmjnLAuA-rcM25ogxTZ2K8ghyphenhyphenIig9Wo6UY9GiWnwpcfRFhzk2etW-8/s400/IMG_1262.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670358505959235314" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpYVPFsAEmBIjj6-OamsrcyPTwhXbDdo3nHsYFlgCiabrgJmh0wlgcNMn5KUtrQsCDVzPBGuj_4MWF7b0svcJ1uuc4I6AuM84pt2xtK_Ta4Oj7C3pq5_pVF8JJ4ePeT26PhFNRhL7Hqig/s1600/IMG_1256.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 334px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpYVPFsAEmBIjj6-OamsrcyPTwhXbDdo3nHsYFlgCiabrgJmh0wlgcNMn5KUtrQsCDVzPBGuj_4MWF7b0svcJ1uuc4I6AuM84pt2xtK_Ta4Oj7C3pq5_pVF8JJ4ePeT26PhFNRhL7Hqig/s400/IMG_1256.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670358670647209634" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh610n6N2joDRE3BbSvtWdaZBi-7fS-fdIz3wBbl2Qu6AvOIrzC2iZ85tWxqoAHxHyXE1MtmDTfIvJKzi0mM5Dt9PF0j0AsLDTOHagfEvinHrfY0WMoxzx0-MloAbblp8grShfRRRZWMeQ/s1600/IMG_1265.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 334px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh610n6N2joDRE3BbSvtWdaZBi-7fS-fdIz3wBbl2Qu6AvOIrzC2iZ85tWxqoAHxHyXE1MtmDTfIvJKzi0mM5Dt9PF0j0AsLDTOHagfEvinHrfY0WMoxzx0-MloAbblp8grShfRRRZWMeQ/s400/IMG_1265.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670358386159963058" /></a><img style="display:block; 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margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 334px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiRLVNyCpLTPxTc8_lSAWuZh4ERxiKN83qu0rv0-hkL_U0XDrGG0xKOfRaONCVjKFtdyyliT9zf3ERv_TlGJ3VIxm0aP68LhKRQwPFbEWdHzBbmfLiIagswlVMrqi3OXB0MVGk6hyphenhyphen9mSU/s400/IMG_1237.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670339535020229410" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs_UQ31wKTHzLHLw5pqPwSozneYn80lXkefw3YfPt0klOCod-T7hCCGI-P2qk9ZzEibB4i5QyZ05Bph5f8ry-BPPYlgkgCK6o1bIJ_5i3wsm59ieSuN3Ma4hyBYD3LS5fZWsEOj_gBtWo/s1600/IMG_1242.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 334px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs_UQ31wKTHzLHLw5pqPwSozneYn80lXkefw3YfPt0klOCod-T7hCCGI-P2qk9ZzEibB4i5QyZ05Bph5f8ry-BPPYlgkgCK6o1bIJ_5i3wsm59ieSuN3Ma4hyBYD3LS5fZWsEOj_gBtWo/s400/IMG_1242.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670339314917125122" /></a></div></div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-44539740249518748922011-11-03T10:00:00.001-04:002011-11-03T10:00:03.286-04:00THE NEW VIETNAM<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFsSwuANdYf8sCdVH2Pzzr083BwQapJ1AKg1fa2BZX_ICObjfNMbcT08cGFZ8LsmAQWqs5b9SsY46L39HxfLq6cdYKSmR4pzY8TNPF5ytIijZUAapRTVmgABaVo02eLMvXUc-dkX0fdQ0/s1600/IMG_1062.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFsSwuANdYf8sCdVH2Pzzr083BwQapJ1AKg1fa2BZX_ICObjfNMbcT08cGFZ8LsmAQWqs5b9SsY46L39HxfLq6cdYKSmR4pzY8TNPF5ytIijZUAapRTVmgABaVo02eLMvXUc-dkX0fdQ0/s400/IMG_1062.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669559692184242546" /></a>Since the 1990's sweeping cultural and economic changes brought by the reintroduction of capitalism in Vietnam have transformed the landscape of the country along with the society. Where traditional low rise tube houses (as in Hoi An), French colonial mansions, and some depressing Socialist block architecture was once the norm, the prosperity brought by reform has added an interesting new architectural feature to the mix: the rocket building.<div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlzX6vNPIM8F44iBUXTQZvDxdAPYK1IbIngVpQqLBpGh3br7hnCJF9yVbt6G3MybKtvZtRU7XqBBWpfIniBpynvU1_D_ChyphenhyphenjAA0A9DaPbotAewpVFcR96QEDyF9o1YugZQSOUHDzA1_N0/s1600/IMG_1069.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlzX6vNPIM8F44iBUXTQZvDxdAPYK1IbIngVpQqLBpGh3br7hnCJF9yVbt6G3MybKtvZtRU7XqBBWpfIniBpynvU1_D_ChyphenhyphenjAA0A9DaPbotAewpVFcR96QEDyF9o1YugZQSOUHDzA1_N0/s400/IMG_1069.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669559605251988898" /></a>Original land lease plots, defined by the traditional limited street front to cut down on tax assessments, which was measured by linear feet of retail frontage, continue to be long and narrow. As buildings are renovated and expanded, families and businesses are building up instead of out. Impossibly narrow structures 4-5 stories tall dot the outskirts of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and even the main streets of formerly sleepy villages.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr3vNRxTSZX55m6u0LNaIMCefv_9cbiNIQKsqHh-1WkAM05wy1HvI0DWSuXG5V-WL1gx4-5v1t4gEeMmEzFThUrnLxiCa1AhsR66Ww9TDerLSiOPvdTFZTJeU4WWwnx7uxwFy3rBHlEvo/s1600/IMG_1088.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr3vNRxTSZX55m6u0LNaIMCefv_9cbiNIQKsqHh-1WkAM05wy1HvI0DWSuXG5V-WL1gx4-5v1t4gEeMmEzFThUrnLxiCa1AhsR66Ww9TDerLSiOPvdTFZTJeU4WWwnx7uxwFy3rBHlEvo/s400/IMG_1088.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669559533090512242" /></a>In what I can only describe as "LED-wedding-cake-faux-French-colonial" style, these teetering expressions of the new econonmy are often festooned with every over-the-top pilaster and decorative balustrade the owners can seem to get their hands on, then painted in sickly pastels and shocking neon colors. At first, driving by building after building like this, I started to feel a little ill. After 10 days in Vietnam, however, I grew to appreciate these structures. There seems to be an infinite variety of personal expression and really unbridled optimism in so many of them, even if they are kind of ugly. Someday they might carry the charm those old tube houses, traditional narrow-laned villages, and French colonial "masterpieces" do. Maybe.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXbMy54uf9hj5hAwnN679H_Ys0HLDNLcARdth-xkpI3PEloOYJTF1XQaiW9cMYnfqrjypKe_Ph_DYVi5pGlJK8agfx9JoXqRLOYbqlbmhTi_zxxjn2NCwt6fR8vIqgH7A5JgPRtux9uds/s1600/IMG_1090.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXbMy54uf9hj5hAwnN679H_Ys0HLDNLcARdth-xkpI3PEloOYJTF1XQaiW9cMYnfqrjypKe_Ph_DYVi5pGlJK8agfx9JoXqRLOYbqlbmhTi_zxxjn2NCwt6fR8vIqgH7A5JgPRtux9uds/s400/IMG_1090.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669559452509910194" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ6tm8gMFSBJOMGyeHJMS3Wa_z8NLlvXmZFn4WrbW5Z2Bdjm9KH0DjcueWxhlv0W1b2WvZADgSbow8czQwFdsIkdOiDkZck_trIt7_gM31GgdnghCjDwvZ8O4YwqBcTVQnDv_XJ2HwE-k/s1600/IMG_1093.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ6tm8gMFSBJOMGyeHJMS3Wa_z8NLlvXmZFn4WrbW5Z2Bdjm9KH0DjcueWxhlv0W1b2WvZADgSbow8czQwFdsIkdOiDkZck_trIt7_gM31GgdnghCjDwvZ8O4YwqBcTVQnDv_XJ2HwE-k/s400/IMG_1093.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669559377674046114" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDXcxj04EwMjM3OQ-81XVt3EFDBy2cobLE5LEWqg6fHcc2V2zHSwcD40w1O8QTTo8yOuP7i44A64k190X5sz7_zJRBx-idZ9zBBat1zGwXLaPWbWgmzNWKl01BBeWUauvhQPZLyvD3gJ4/s1600/IMG_1094.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDXcxj04EwMjM3OQ-81XVt3EFDBy2cobLE5LEWqg6fHcc2V2zHSwcD40w1O8QTTo8yOuP7i44A64k190X5sz7_zJRBx-idZ9zBBat1zGwXLaPWbWgmzNWKl01BBeWUauvhQPZLyvD3gJ4/s400/IMG_1094.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669559294675701698" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbG5q4O4vuqPuknmAHMi6jc-6AkwQawB58P0ID0xs7qVm4Af4qCi7TUlZRIE-7ZHCoeZoO2_oY3qnwmgtxPLplJWE6-iERvN02hGhaAQBe0rzhKddxGpyOIqyEVHqvvuxHfxpSSOGAQGs/s1600/IMG_1447.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbG5q4O4vuqPuknmAHMi6jc-6AkwQawB58P0ID0xs7qVm4Af4qCi7TUlZRIE-7ZHCoeZoO2_oY3qnwmgtxPLplJWE6-iERvN02hGhaAQBe0rzhKddxGpyOIqyEVHqvvuxHfxpSSOGAQGs/s400/IMG_1447.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669559221698306482" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx-VOukANG_HxNADwRJ0YzRuBOK0IUcz3UpVWrUCb7eeAjm5PluiLNdiQ9ceMtThV4Odcs9eMCutFNdizPpvRr6HggMMlM5t0V1sqNxFH8maXpsDVl-xWjo4PqLFnZZbnlXkZj3gy1Ma8/s1600/IMG_1450.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx-VOukANG_HxNADwRJ0YzRuBOK0IUcz3UpVWrUCb7eeAjm5PluiLNdiQ9ceMtThV4Odcs9eMCutFNdizPpvRr6HggMMlM5t0V1sqNxFH8maXpsDVl-xWjo4PqLFnZZbnlXkZj3gy1Ma8/s400/IMG_1450.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669559153507965938" /></a></div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-40056263222155860332011-10-31T04:26:00.034-04:002011-11-02T07:48:24.668-04:00SAIGON<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxYPELjbEV2ZsxyDOfWl1pNCMXOpHNLhPmBg34_-_Hn5CBEELtZh2X10PTsU_Mys6TfVd41IR3KhJotWNl7Mb3H_oCEVx6CJDl1hBFRqhFVtfDUzGlW2WF-ciPfZYNui1egr7NnYc9gXk/s1600/IMG_1633.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxYPELjbEV2ZsxyDOfWl1pNCMXOpHNLhPmBg34_-_Hn5CBEELtZh2X10PTsU_Mys6TfVd41IR3KhJotWNl7Mb3H_oCEVx6CJDl1hBFRqhFVtfDUzGlW2WF-ciPfZYNui1egr7NnYc9gXk/s400/IMG_1633.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669573712274993682" /></a>I consider myself a lover of fast-paced cities and a pretty savvy urban dweller. New York is my home; I love Tokyo's futuristic complexity; even the vastness of London can be exciting when the weather isn't totally gross. Nothing, and I mean <i>nothing</i>, could prepare me for the totally frenetic, youthful viberance of Saigon. There is a throbbing energy, packed night markets, throngs of teenagers everywhere, and insane traffic weaving through it all. I had heard that compared to the exotic crumbling charm of Hanoi, Saigon seemed more flashy but with less character and culture. I did not find that to be the case at all and hope that on my next trip to Vietnam I get to spend more time in this fascinating city.<div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbYC-Ow7AskrKJ31HXhFYOS7hGGrWBEXbZU79BM3-OpxXpCBZrnsIXea-pIecdGg0_q7zSHdpIHjoLVl9p_J8SFjuyXjlnbLXVzGYXrovoXtReIA2xOV6uKZBh6ydUTUF-Rh-bDNckw0A/s400/IMG_1644.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669573458376080434" /></div><div>One of the highlights was the food. My husband was sick and sadly missed all 36 hours we had in Saigon trying to recover and gear up for treking temples in the heat of Cambodia (more on that soon). This meant I was on my own, with the (absolutely necessary) help of my sassy and fun guide Chau, to discover Saigon's food scene. She and I ate at two ends of the spectrum: a trendy, organic, locally sourced neo-Vietnamese eatery as well as a hot, smelly packed night market bazaar stand. Both were outstanding. I don't even know all of what I ate, but here are some pictures of it!</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2sE1k2CU-Mun8TV3Nvcs5hD80S-RH4oeHP430_FKvOnJYuRZUFQx2mSRsSmVnxweoxERBwPrDrEfQ-92toOBUIoU718jl0noNmmKjTMU6Ve43mqbdw8rpeKsQD7DkygGtIyJoHYAZx9U/s400/IMG_1640.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669573360074463410" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdMgJwky6VX4HFb0OzdAToEeanqHI1QCPpPZttuVVVuAvBDo-Q5PD_9Ue9d5Bw8U2Rtwoq8vme3bXDbR5jTK6ZjIOPzyIJCIvKx74UB202KqSDJJfoY31e7L-TgUCS7_Rd12lvaMzb7jM/s400/IMG_1637.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669573258217344994" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfo-t9AVMbCuxDiUxHMwAXEa75QVeC0j87L_PgbtViCyDsEspEWYauz5welqtZN4i_mceyZQKgw1mpQ8WT1wub0WAZa_GAXdPREAMpwcH0aUJqn8jimXh8jK9M1GhjgkWQSYTZY8HiGaU/s1600/IMG_1645.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfo-t9AVMbCuxDiUxHMwAXEa75QVeC0j87L_PgbtViCyDsEspEWYauz5welqtZN4i_mceyZQKgw1mpQ8WT1wub0WAZa_GAXdPREAMpwcH0aUJqn8jimXh8jK9M1GhjgkWQSYTZY8HiGaU/s400/IMG_1645.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669573538813534514" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6osbM0WgG-A4JToXML5qq2ghEpebBx-IidE5s49b31UyhRZwoobCvSTPEgED4ulvcj172kF9WmcOexVhIWR8NLDtzvm53fHvWBXPYqwrSIMOZJFTXUQZk6JE74efY9P7h5KDlajze-lM/s1600/IMG_1635.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6osbM0WgG-A4JToXML5qq2ghEpebBx-IidE5s49b31UyhRZwoobCvSTPEgED4ulvcj172kF9WmcOexVhIWR8NLDtzvm53fHvWBXPYqwrSIMOZJFTXUQZk6JE74efY9P7h5KDlajze-lM/s400/IMG_1635.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669573139643623554" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmZx3YvmatMtBgox2JJBvnEiVcCehbem56575GCkNVohVOJxFCQzy9Q0rnKAHiPqCJ36GM0k_U5sYwk-jsHXB2ZxojCAjGwh_iHhg5d99POItk9yqUlFcRaClQsF6-6Ox0kVdOLl5j_D0/s1600/IMG_1716.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmZx3YvmatMtBgox2JJBvnEiVcCehbem56575GCkNVohVOJxFCQzy9Q0rnKAHiPqCJ36GM0k_U5sYwk-jsHXB2ZxojCAjGwh_iHhg5d99POItk9yqUlFcRaClQsF6-6Ox0kVdOLl5j_D0/s400/IMG_1716.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669573045525764690" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeqLAlL0yifn9SfpICat99XzIZ60hb20nonDK1SVaYKXtuui8pL0QV_AEai0rXRTGxDysQklgGjZCKH6F-Rp6js1nZ2MkDq0ubKTXpwY9PEzcxqQK-8G7xw5sJXweR4sf5Q6ZPS9SFQPQ/s1600/IMG_1647.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeqLAlL0yifn9SfpICat99XzIZ60hb20nonDK1SVaYKXtuui8pL0QV_AEai0rXRTGxDysQklgGjZCKH6F-Rp6js1nZ2MkDq0ubKTXpwY9PEzcxqQK-8G7xw5sJXweR4sf5Q6ZPS9SFQPQ/s400/IMG_1647.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669572626923936434" /></a>Besides the food, the War Remnants Museum was an emotionally difficult but totally required highlight. My other favorite was the former Presidential Palace, now known as the Reunification Palace. This weird 1960's relic was designed by Vietnamese architect Ngo Viet Thu for the South Vietnamese president Ngo Dinh Diem. It stands where the original French colonial Norodom Palace once stood. That residence was home to the French colonial governors of Indochina and then the South Vietnamese president until it was bombed by Diem's own airforce in a US backed assassination attempt in 1962. The US had of course propped up Diem's corrupt regime during the Vietnam war until he became a liability and we decided to throw our hat in the ring to help get rid of him. The assassination attempt did not work (a later one did) and Diem ordered the construction of this new modern residence in place of the Norodom Palace.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW9ugOMW3d_uV47tPMSH_1IaGc2tyHGUxLbHua5MV3oRCJa3vZw0WCC9nLM_uarfco1gfhl06DArc7q-jsOIIAfF1Q7Z5_RHjONMrDUhQh3OX6kmz5L9kQI1ZdBAG5DESJ5M89-kQn_hQ/s1600/IMG_1660.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW9ugOMW3d_uV47tPMSH_1IaGc2tyHGUxLbHua5MV3oRCJa3vZw0WCC9nLM_uarfco1gfhl06DArc7q-jsOIIAfF1Q7Z5_RHjONMrDUhQh3OX6kmz5L9kQI1ZdBAG5DESJ5M89-kQn_hQ/s400/IMG_1660.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669572415383290402" /></a>When South Vietnam fell in 1975, the image of the Northern Vietnamese tanks crashing through the gates of the compound signaled to the world that the US had lost the war and Vietnam would be one communist country, hence the new name, Reunification Palace. </div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiljPWWxsFMNR0zoJsp3dCf-R5ItSmsZjYEtxedN_WMEDinqjXrEfthTbL_RcdhY6COmOxaNPea4UiwQJihSDoJrNYncdk8Do1-FDlwKaJYRcNJwg_sPI1NR8EudR5SHai7pdTE3S_w6Ug/s1600/IMG_1649.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiljPWWxsFMNR0zoJsp3dCf-R5ItSmsZjYEtxedN_WMEDinqjXrEfthTbL_RcdhY6COmOxaNPea4UiwQJihSDoJrNYncdk8Do1-FDlwKaJYRcNJwg_sPI1NR8EudR5SHai7pdTE3S_w6Ug/s400/IMG_1649.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669572318352492690" /></a>Inexplicably, the new govenment left nearly everything in its place as a museum (of victory, I suppose?). All the furniture, draperies, wall treatments, etc. are still there, and the building is a strange relic of swinging 60's meets Vietnamese design. There is actually no air conditioning, but the structure remains cool from open windows and cross ventilation worked throughout the spaces.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfXHTZSmjg3OIDUj0L3lKZy4Z4SgacpaGoIyCiI4_zJyb0u379Axr0xSznMBCizuT9NhD7WJfbbrgS77tWDbVo9Xzhm27Sc7rqu6wlEW1jiKDmwkXzUBCy-JfEm_w49roBfMtbKVBrB-o/s1600/IMG_1650.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfXHTZSmjg3OIDUj0L3lKZy4Z4SgacpaGoIyCiI4_zJyb0u379Axr0xSznMBCizuT9NhD7WJfbbrgS77tWDbVo9Xzhm27Sc7rqu6wlEW1jiKDmwkXzUBCy-JfEm_w49roBfMtbKVBrB-o/s400/IMG_1650.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669572241405573586" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR4OgN5T1MEBbFF5wJA9NkjsWzDHZX7eQRCgwUv9Zj4QnMTbmk0EE7QcljMmsEY3zT9w0dxzMIyQVbR_JhU8xAxe9sm5twgZVFR2aqK19CNKtyIULr2ao8Fu-m4Tf8TzCGAVaVo0vsIWg/s1600/IMG_1655.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR4OgN5T1MEBbFF5wJA9NkjsWzDHZX7eQRCgwUv9Zj4QnMTbmk0EE7QcljMmsEY3zT9w0dxzMIyQVbR_JhU8xAxe9sm5twgZVFR2aqK19CNKtyIULr2ao8Fu-m4Tf8TzCGAVaVo0vsIWg/s400/IMG_1655.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669572160214883922" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqDUQGLJXv_t3c17e8zE3rbRpwS2XlYjyPP2UwPNQjRaqyRYIcRR1lE1BY28l1zSPlbcbqdJTzTZmU1BZObKkewKwhIV6txfzT9IIwU6Uy5DbdeAo4qM5tbF3yhx6hNzKVDph5llYyIWQ/s1600/IMG_1659.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqDUQGLJXv_t3c17e8zE3rbRpwS2XlYjyPP2UwPNQjRaqyRYIcRR1lE1BY28l1zSPlbcbqdJTzTZmU1BZObKkewKwhIV6txfzT9IIwU6Uy5DbdeAo4qM5tbF3yhx6hNzKVDph5llYyIWQ/s400/IMG_1659.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669572067437405634" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirrFZUvA4cbfaeUB6NXgY0q4mpi2WbfuMsgh4ZyxIetLEy1p9ZTXqSC1jGeiI0CrmkjmuCBP6_XKpyDXxQqliXZoEkIjcBYg9c0wwJSCQtno3dskJm5L0g3-Ykkksnu582ZmqMCkY6nxI/s1600/IMG_1661.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirrFZUvA4cbfaeUB6NXgY0q4mpi2WbfuMsgh4ZyxIetLEy1p9ZTXqSC1jGeiI0CrmkjmuCBP6_XKpyDXxQqliXZoEkIjcBYg9c0wwJSCQtno3dskJm5L0g3-Ykkksnu582ZmqMCkY6nxI/s400/IMG_1661.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669571948610368962" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg47Ovr8GfjGnlNhGRGy9eCcnurtKHj_QsozDgPLrhTGodEnURttQgbeejpXBxMjPFr5ZXWKuBvBuu0_LV2EwErXtOtZpxPn0-sE4M_DChe_NlvuinNrd_9kDLUpMxa6FU3Movtj5FAwWo/s1600/IMG_1662.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg47Ovr8GfjGnlNhGRGy9eCcnurtKHj_QsozDgPLrhTGodEnURttQgbeejpXBxMjPFr5ZXWKuBvBuu0_LV2EwErXtOtZpxPn0-sE4M_DChe_NlvuinNrd_9kDLUpMxa6FU3Movtj5FAwWo/s400/IMG_1662.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669571824572908274" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc14xQxpIxAwJVwUe1m0EHPocfzqYfh4rweQUfR3Xs-Fn4BGSN2cSvAFFmD6qvjUkxWcLLfAPeb9DMAIKAwwALtpMl5fOSVhZWwWyhkp6pdRX_KDZMCb2VidY83fyRo9R1cJn6MLVId6o/s1600/IMG_1667.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc14xQxpIxAwJVwUe1m0EHPocfzqYfh4rweQUfR3Xs-Fn4BGSN2cSvAFFmD6qvjUkxWcLLfAPeb9DMAIKAwwALtpMl5fOSVhZWwWyhkp6pdRX_KDZMCb2VidY83fyRo9R1cJn6MLVId6o/s400/IMG_1667.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669571721935921442" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3e1M20xQs4EaFJJvrDNG1me-ITq6S45zIYNzvdxyjHA0K1hf7osWuKRsEFO9pyiMDgNoICAdqcdO9FNOQPJRn1Z_Tj6ajv6JonNljOTl4EiaXimS-1Dol5TJZOoMMRBev6elq5YMfsS4/s1600/IMG_1666.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3e1M20xQs4EaFJJvrDNG1me-ITq6S45zIYNzvdxyjHA0K1hf7osWuKRsEFO9pyiMDgNoICAdqcdO9FNOQPJRn1Z_Tj6ajv6JonNljOTl4EiaXimS-1Dol5TJZOoMMRBev6elq5YMfsS4/s400/IMG_1666.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669571626086722658" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Gf6HWKO55vbcm-H5QsKETKZyktn9Bn8CepCXG1MB2SLVP8FQtygDGbq2Wgkr9nTcZspLd14VmnPpnWSjggu7Xoc5CKubFgBN9b1gu7imxBpg7y2D7gIU3Fj_SHzzDGgSo-Idw3yf4VU/s1600/IMG_1669.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Gf6HWKO55vbcm-H5QsKETKZyktn9Bn8CepCXG1MB2SLVP8FQtygDGbq2Wgkr9nTcZspLd14VmnPpnWSjggu7Xoc5CKubFgBN9b1gu7imxBpg7y2D7gIU3Fj_SHzzDGgSo-Idw3yf4VU/s400/IMG_1669.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669571529401333890" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXUQhHQXGCCslkeIS_zz11-G-jP8hV_CcJQesMLF1bVk4zh3orOqkW9RcXnw_dueZLLGp1d8QX234bsJo0otsiUOMy9ZV-ELKCO8DLdeK2VCAgHnnduszO19Ja_pwMdtUl9UMPCsSW89M/s1600/IMG_1670.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXUQhHQXGCCslkeIS_zz11-G-jP8hV_CcJQesMLF1bVk4zh3orOqkW9RcXnw_dueZLLGp1d8QX234bsJo0otsiUOMy9ZV-ELKCO8DLdeK2VCAgHnnduszO19Ja_pwMdtUl9UMPCsSW89M/s400/IMG_1670.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669571402673276562" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsZuMA9et7unAeID2sqGcTgP1VkFRHRiZQQYCWUh4qX76nRrGqOfHQR8yULE8wAp3xOb6nrmPeeQub9bNz_ZRW1V9HsiB-Xr66E_nu6-1-jSzznTkHSo5bmwMw0veLgQjtI-moCmVSp9g/s1600/IMG_1672.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsZuMA9et7unAeID2sqGcTgP1VkFRHRiZQQYCWUh4qX76nRrGqOfHQR8yULE8wAp3xOb6nrmPeeQub9bNz_ZRW1V9HsiB-Xr66E_nu6-1-jSzznTkHSo5bmwMw0veLgQjtI-moCmVSp9g/s400/IMG_1672.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669571199725844802" /></a>My favorite room was the "signatory room," covered in lacquered panels and featuring these bizzare but fantastic <a href="http://www.themagazineantiques.com/articles/showmanship-and-fantasy-the-designs-of-james-mont/">James Mont</a> style seating pieces and case pieces.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0cEHhzf0nVNZADg2uh-zYgSgiA8xshC_qqApG0dgtfxc6TiST4qZ33eTl8S1l9DvjQ1cyt5PZG-10W0UaMWEgSm8_87oJ9IG_adc8_zxtTtWW34YRW9o_-B3Z2lLPEm9aSVVUcW8z6NA/s1600/IMG_1673.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0cEHhzf0nVNZADg2uh-zYgSgiA8xshC_qqApG0dgtfxc6TiST4qZ33eTl8S1l9DvjQ1cyt5PZG-10W0UaMWEgSm8_87oJ9IG_adc8_zxtTtWW34YRW9o_-B3Z2lLPEm9aSVVUcW8z6NA/s400/IMG_1673.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669571016504084546" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTKTap1WANGkdnQ1N1YhEb6Z6gBBW4Y-5bPOvxJanEeJ5cvFOugF06lb9bcNoyeg12TslLen9q-fHk9fKuCuclw9nLse0uh5NQLBKuWp8HtuewnF7yekomFrgGT_L59TonCoXfBknc0jQ/s1600/IMG_1682.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTKTap1WANGkdnQ1N1YhEb6Z6gBBW4Y-5bPOvxJanEeJ5cvFOugF06lb9bcNoyeg12TslLen9q-fHk9fKuCuclw9nLse0uh5NQLBKuWp8HtuewnF7yekomFrgGT_L59TonCoXfBknc0jQ/s400/IMG_1682.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669570905553528178" /></a>Love the curtain rods/valances as well. Those are the lacquered wall panels.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLVgcGZvcpVd-OwjHr1jEZoYb83D8IvN6ER4ZAiWxtv6rfUs0pZQ05_0eXsXFPNOsxnNLj3gFm4dmzXcN2yXSdEWbRO5wSPxHrtzNX9fq4nXlliiHyBlg7fsM2TbUVO8giPrUKE9lXck8/s1600/IMG_1685.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLVgcGZvcpVd-OwjHr1jEZoYb83D8IvN6ER4ZAiWxtv6rfUs0pZQ05_0eXsXFPNOsxnNLj3gFm4dmzXcN2yXSdEWbRO5wSPxHrtzNX9fq4nXlliiHyBlg7fsM2TbUVO8giPrUKE9lXck8/s400/IMG_1685.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669570791677470562" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmGKydx2Ta6FaUYp7M8P1TOgdpjg5_05f6_LLe5y0hF0E2lXmxeG7WcVzpWnB_yQObqNGpiqHSpLUCv-8OF6pZOtwokX9QTed8Yfg1DGEH8uZckCcc0KVek8NAfAPk3txAJqTsYlCVYuw/s1600/IMG_1692.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmGKydx2Ta6FaUYp7M8P1TOgdpjg5_05f6_LLe5y0hF0E2lXmxeG7WcVzpWnB_yQObqNGpiqHSpLUCv-8OF6pZOtwokX9QTed8Yfg1DGEH8uZckCcc0KVek8NAfAPk3txAJqTsYlCVYuw/s400/IMG_1692.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669570666877390818" /></a>The entertainment room. Here is where the president gambled, smoked and partied while the war raged. Those good times would come to an end soon...</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuK8oJu3iv8khY7Il4NRvu-Jx359HvvDBt50nFh4EtwL8Xni22pYfJud65OVuBrcg6E83WjUS-DFSv9t5dMzIwXzqKzU2oHh8v3e1IRKJ5YccQH-myMTQP6Q1TH9LeLpB-aYV1mbCpQEQ/s1600/IMG_1694.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuK8oJu3iv8khY7Il4NRvu-Jx359HvvDBt50nFh4EtwL8Xni22pYfJud65OVuBrcg6E83WjUS-DFSv9t5dMzIwXzqKzU2oHh8v3e1IRKJ5YccQH-myMTQP6Q1TH9LeLpB-aYV1mbCpQEQ/s400/IMG_1694.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669570585863089122" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSHCQhSoyJcwAFOx2xcegl23wREnNHT4GQcVa0B-c3ZGtYXHjqbzxj7LJx7PXCHRSigVz8vN_tW-rVTrMc5WaF2GrpuUsrNwSXSnXOrL93kKK0Lr0IMX0UZ_6o4WYUPcklVTJ7N9tnUuo/s1600/IMG_1696.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSHCQhSoyJcwAFOx2xcegl23wREnNHT4GQcVa0B-c3ZGtYXHjqbzxj7LJx7PXCHRSigVz8vN_tW-rVTrMc5WaF2GrpuUsrNwSXSnXOrL93kKK0Lr0IMX0UZ_6o4WYUPcklVTJ7N9tnUuo/s400/IMG_1696.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669570505052824274" /></a><div style="text-align: left;">The private theatre. Diem was a huge movie fanatic.</div></div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-4389769300671063472011-10-30T09:15:00.000-04:002011-10-30T09:15:00.237-04:00HOI AN<img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVNGxRScu8vQmOTzzkUUi6Y5GjjvZrpa8kVZtIHLHYX_EPXBgsNFdc6BtdRPPb5xRj27OOpLk9jUpkm41yx88V3vb1E1WLMLLuiXK9lDyshAmxwqPAuUluy8nP-lO3T8ZkqTuQ0kQZgmo/s400/IMG_1514.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668904048806627506" />Three hours drive south of Hue is the old port city of Hoi An. This architectural gem of a town was an important sea trading port from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Chinese, Japanese, Portugese, Indian, Javanese, British and American ships all stopped in Hoi An, or Faifoo as it was called, and many merchants stayed permenently. Because of these many outside influences, and because Hoi An remained a "non-strategic" location for most of the 20th century, the town is still filled with wonderful old multi-cultural residential and commercial buildings. Since UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in the 1990's, cars are banned from its streets and the center of town has taken on a very tourist-centric edge. All the visitors and fusion restaurants don't take away from the beauty, especially on an early morning stroll before the Venice-in-summer-like hoardes descend.<div><br /><div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0jWszNN1ye4uNdEP3OiBBNc3KYzmXPQUo19Qdrz8RJZSmXzFOpRQKoEBPo6x5A85b1IuLF82JocVOe2GsCRVXh4DI_P5rg7UoA4KWDlkW8nbzck88dic6f88N6RnWIeh50z1z3P6qZqM/s400/IMG_1553.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668903912574671538" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRT_GoQ2NT9gZMqRWLbWUCk93n6drpx8MxnuuIZbY27pR0A5KenZzAVzxHco8hXWG4VkTtIhJIGziE_lGBMMCCZ9LdyPLED4-Tnt20tMqGABKqPN0d11jDCg9wQWHn3iBlFm1K0Ruq0pg/s400/IMG_1560.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668903644096075058" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg673eOXfFY7DPYkg1fqseL4Uz7z09JCVP5QyEP9TU9yj0lf8CxZeJXSELGz3-UvnU0ytkj_zAGJqImIgi8Gk-pMFi0an3X_QdM6LPUMeZmkbjlLCQgs1DJwNPteKaHipP5Gf8ZBSjRsgs/s400/IMG_1561.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668903529933772034" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFhiTWWBK_r9zxRamGz7yaHNZb2muxO9MJ8AOVZ59pBE65S7PqfphHIW1wWiJScsq8co1tMaEs542xz380W8cQn1v4dKovjrCboDddt83iXwy3jkc1slSOAlUUkfEKnhMhJETXDvQ-l-0/s400/IMG_1564.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668903386680401186" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFHIK5k51dmFWMy2dHj0no_tFVVX1gxoYf6KcR15rtanjIheeHEwyZdZmKnXpMElwbfmr3EqPaRaRuu9jNDhkqVRsVCaQa8vs-jid_hrO-LPU9P_kFm4VACTJ-eJIsjjbsQW9leJDEmn8/s1600/IMG_1507.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFHIK5k51dmFWMy2dHj0no_tFVVX1gxoYf6KcR15rtanjIheeHEwyZdZmKnXpMElwbfmr3EqPaRaRuu9jNDhkqVRsVCaQa8vs-jid_hrO-LPU9P_kFm4VACTJ-eJIsjjbsQW9leJDEmn8/s400/IMG_1507.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668905302395907698" /></a>Several of the old houses still belong to their original families. Most have been turned into museums to benefit from the tourist trade, such as the Tan Ky house, above. The house exhibits elements of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural influences... and a few funny modern touches like the "happy day" curtains below.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitNbxHx0fTzkdK5HoRatQcCcEyo7iOsRsCRw_ebCI2Nb6qJAXqtHAzQzkDU6hu8nS-XGAdUaP2G6xgZrHdZbyHPFzhoxmcMMO1WeW-RLRtYZl6uiI9E0ywpVpf7p06zld8tOuyFsno4O4/s1600/IMG_1481.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitNbxHx0fTzkdK5HoRatQcCcEyo7iOsRsCRw_ebCI2Nb6qJAXqtHAzQzkDU6hu8nS-XGAdUaP2G6xgZrHdZbyHPFzhoxmcMMO1WeW-RLRtYZl6uiI9E0ywpVpf7p06zld8tOuyFsno4O4/s400/IMG_1481.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668905182402761010" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2V9OpkDvNCwxhJymchHympdZvEEyFQhRYh9ulxlNOEb-LKc4FFM0128cmhAeO5mDkqH7s_zFv6rXBzYgjcBDFaTqnLK62780967BBqQVCvUVksfRbPKq1ip002iRss2flOzURVtLJDpA/s1600/IMG_1488.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2V9OpkDvNCwxhJymchHympdZvEEyFQhRYh9ulxlNOEb-LKc4FFM0128cmhAeO5mDkqH7s_zFv6rXBzYgjcBDFaTqnLK62780967BBqQVCvUVksfRbPKq1ip002iRss2flOzURVtLJDpA/s400/IMG_1488.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668904476581703042" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6sOZ_aSz7g86C5SkTJw7g1fDBoS0LtsFX1nU7spdqGadjccp9xH8TxPi8LVYqJuwzGafaMQ5Cu5wRlWXk2DtWjWyzPdaqgCZxfCi6OeeV2K6w4RTiO1_92pAEskIaTkDfAtoQetW-zZk/s1600/IMG_1491.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6sOZ_aSz7g86C5SkTJw7g1fDBoS0LtsFX1nU7spdqGadjccp9xH8TxPi8LVYqJuwzGafaMQ5Cu5wRlWXk2DtWjWyzPdaqgCZxfCi6OeeV2K6w4RTiO1_92pAEskIaTkDfAtoQetW-zZk/s400/IMG_1491.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668904333551420482" /></a>Even if it is for the benefit of tourists, it was great to see a house this old still used by its inhabitants. An ancient family temple mixed with 19th century mother-of-pearl Chinese-Victorian furniture mixed with a 1960's rotary phone... Hoi An may feel a bit like a Disneyland version of old Vietnam, but it is still a living, breathing city underneith the surface.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3JEaSD7SRetU2jNnXfCXkzZ3QN37zbhjmexbNgIZxlLXZAtipwzsoKqYUV7iVukIia4AQbws9nxHmsLkQBnUb0_JwF_VR1TBdw50ODUdFPZ6rCYlIcRsMi96x49pmCZguF5PKxSRbRoo/s1600/IMG_1518.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3JEaSD7SRetU2jNnXfCXkzZ3QN37zbhjmexbNgIZxlLXZAtipwzsoKqYUV7iVukIia4AQbws9nxHmsLkQBnUb0_JwF_VR1TBdw50ODUdFPZ6rCYlIcRsMi96x49pmCZguF5PKxSRbRoo/s400/IMG_1518.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668904175448826466" /></a>A glimpse into a barber shop off a small alley.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjysGtFQ7zr8Bk8ujETvSUbAjXTFyM1hX2fm1lb6GPFrjPRgrFtIsi2a0rl45rb5H6TGjpQHDfVammctF6ZJfwJjA5nzfQOrvgGyM_F9zI_xGVvE7pvUt5EjnU2SZsq8VLxEmloJWV8g8Y/s1600/IMG_1538.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjysGtFQ7zr8Bk8ujETvSUbAjXTFyM1hX2fm1lb6GPFrjPRgrFtIsi2a0rl45rb5H6TGjpQHDfVammctF6ZJfwJjA5nzfQOrvgGyM_F9zI_xGVvE7pvUt5EjnU2SZsq8VLxEmloJWV8g8Y/s400/IMG_1538.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668903783068159170" /></a>The food in Hoi An was interesting. In general central Vietnam is a spicer version of the cuisine in other parts of the country. This might be attributed to the fact that until the Viet people pushed southward from northern reaches of country starting in the 13th century, the area belonged to the Champa civilization. The Chams were Indianized through trade via Java and used Sanskrit as their language and Hindu as their religion. Their food was undoubtedly influenced by the spices of India and the East Indies as well.<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQw_EnntgfmvNsZGbTs_TqtipOPoVDuB5UJYbl0QA0E4OxpYO2gKv_5gFOWkiCiD6KjH9j0l-uWhTO6EwPqcpqrh2WzciIaphlzDJqW5uEmTSxdhIer6o-duZP4NPO_SaTZyh58rDkvk/s1600/IMG_1613.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQw_EnntgfmvNsZGbTs_TqtipOPoVDuB5UJYbl0QA0E4OxpYO2gKv_5gFOWkiCiD6KjH9j0l-uWhTO6EwPqcpqrh2WzciIaphlzDJqW5uEmTSxdhIer6o-duZP4NPO_SaTZyh58rDkvk/s400/IMG_1613.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668903244225340002" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIaJXQWL5bbCJrOx3Cn_j6jtoK-WMdOlKvwLeMWBcK6R3USSXI8gUy8epSZQATokxnq8GAKhII33RgI980CBLa-H5YnypOC8EAJnzBcc1IN8VrqZRi2wH6-6ZPYRqMRiu9DL7zV-xlvA0/s1600/IMG_1606.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIaJXQWL5bbCJrOx3Cn_j6jtoK-WMdOlKvwLeMWBcK6R3USSXI8gUy8epSZQATokxnq8GAKhII33RgI980CBLa-H5YnypOC8EAJnzBcc1IN8VrqZRi2wH6-6ZPYRqMRiu9DL7zV-xlvA0/s400/IMG_1606.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668903132952812642" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgINn3d3niQx6B-_juUGEPlchdvlJNuvVgwbCV2NcylEyY5c72nZDBS6rTuWb4xzgj_VgVve7oTvrIIBNJpw4w7gjdPp8FgYM6aWCbzqYh36LrdGufxHdqzeDG92GB5UUa_7KnW11VC17I/s1600/IMG_1607.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgINn3d3niQx6B-_juUGEPlchdvlJNuvVgwbCV2NcylEyY5c72nZDBS6rTuWb4xzgj_VgVve7oTvrIIBNJpw4w7gjdPp8FgYM6aWCbzqYh36LrdGufxHdqzeDG92GB5UUa_7KnW11VC17I/s400/IMG_1607.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668903044679288706" /></a>A common theme was grilled meat wrapped with herbs, pickled vegetables and chilis in a rice paper spring roll like concoction. Salt, lime and peppers feature heavily as opposed to vinegar which is a more northern device for livening things up.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMGPWSnMlQBWh5_jhMOs58UsDv4cvlqesrGY1wHZswm7bjas3Kl40Rt1CJeUElPiQe-5K7-lM8J5xCEcIGAtGvJu2kdejGak2yLkb4QAHg8aTdAT9HSEY84XoWGhxazpMzZ8EzjAZpl3k/s1600/IMG_1478.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMGPWSnMlQBWh5_jhMOs58UsDv4cvlqesrGY1wHZswm7bjas3Kl40Rt1CJeUElPiQe-5K7-lM8J5xCEcIGAtGvJu2kdejGak2yLkb4QAHg8aTdAT9HSEY84XoWGhxazpMzZ8EzjAZpl3k/s400/IMG_1478.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668902918254503474" /></a>Seafood, of course, is also a staple. This crab was really good.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjExg1bCcIHI3P_LBL8egzYXx3uKd7HSo33zrpBjkvI6rqyallyc4OLoyXovxqGHqVRYtmOCIlgcBOp-nQwPs72QaN8zJJ0JTG5CCgUnWlBUzL78ziSPg7MjzhCzjoqUEAwjmGpBJdIrkg/s1600/IMG_1465.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjExg1bCcIHI3P_LBL8egzYXx3uKd7HSo33zrpBjkvI6rqyallyc4OLoyXovxqGHqVRYtmOCIlgcBOp-nQwPs72QaN8zJJ0JTG5CCgUnWlBUzL78ziSPg7MjzhCzjoqUEAwjmGpBJdIrkg/s400/IMG_1465.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668902799540945746" /></a>Even before Hoi An became a Vietnamese port-of-international-call, it was a center of trade for the Champa from the 3rd to the 10th centuries. In the mountains about an hour from town are the ruins of Cham religious center, My Son (pronounced mee-sun). Above, they are seen around 1900 when they had already been abandoned and their tower summits stripped of their layers of gold. The Cham people remain an official minority in Vietnam and most practice Islam since its arrival through the same trade routes that brought Hinduism centuries earlier.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb7iWJ3e1qqucrw54HW5iGcNd_e8xum5Y5jsg6sX_EMlUWK9C02jYV5Gkq-cVfPbluSYbIPfIxpVtMrU03-RyG_ANEhAcLIPimxaNzdPJHdMCLVvxWG9y-rp1SHBC2SHOU68WC_6DlcC4/s1600/IMG_1582.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb7iWJ3e1qqucrw54HW5iGcNd_e8xum5Y5jsg6sX_EMlUWK9C02jYV5Gkq-cVfPbluSYbIPfIxpVtMrU03-RyG_ANEhAcLIPimxaNzdPJHdMCLVvxWG9y-rp1SHBC2SHOU68WC_6DlcC4/s400/IMG_1582.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668902625398962482" /></a>My Son was the longest continually developed Hindu religious complex in Southeast Asia (from the 4th to the 13th century) and was used the Cham to make pilgramage from the lowlands twice a year. The architecture is reminiscent of the glories of Khmer design at Ankor, but of course much smaller and using slightly different techniques. It was a real surprise to see a culture like this in the middle of Vietnam, which I did not associate with Hindu or Indic culture at all. Sadly the already ruined ruins were further damaged by US bombing during the war.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCazXSOiujtzgPnvbWZihI9GDvbwVhbZA-lTXGOCraOFSQlGfHmK9rAMtyjmN_-LrdJIEXjBJyias5ZtgZ-yolWg2iPCgW_IJcEK872tXPNF7VnFgPhHCZUVvv8_0pToG5BKlD6naUdBU/s1600/IMG_1590.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCazXSOiujtzgPnvbWZihI9GDvbwVhbZA-lTXGOCraOFSQlGfHmK9rAMtyjmN_-LrdJIEXjBJyias5ZtgZ-yolWg2iPCgW_IJcEK872tXPNF7VnFgPhHCZUVvv8_0pToG5BKlD6naUdBU/s400/IMG_1590.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668902512429377986" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH2NLukVgZJhHGqp-Kmjv2erpDR__LegsgmxXYeOJT0jqDAygX1LPY_DIOb-FPmc0Oh3msed6TLvc8gLhU1sE5h090NjPXDB5OUovlHi5M_cg5zkPeW3dhL1glyVn-s_Dcv1cpAUxx0w0/s1600/IMG_1596.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH2NLukVgZJhHGqp-Kmjv2erpDR__LegsgmxXYeOJT0jqDAygX1LPY_DIOb-FPmc0Oh3msed6TLvc8gLhU1sE5h090NjPXDB5OUovlHi5M_cg5zkPeW3dhL1glyVn-s_Dcv1cpAUxx0w0/s1600/IMG_1596.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH2NLukVgZJhHGqp-Kmjv2erpDR__LegsgmxXYeOJT0jqDAygX1LPY_DIOb-FPmc0Oh3msed6TLvc8gLhU1sE5h090NjPXDB5OUovlHi5M_cg5zkPeW3dhL1glyVn-s_Dcv1cpAUxx0w0/s400/IMG_1596.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668902409062609506" /></a></div></div></div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-14232095262685542272011-10-29T07:02:00.027-04:002011-10-29T09:06:13.021-04:00HUE<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHWakhRSdhwXYjgT6IKUDF4xulV0V2tBikQrJDMy5_rFKRQMZeWNTo4ae610s2-1FzmASjwOmHDF01j1zrieamNlzwlbg_1Zc4NAQK6SccezezpPWSSx37LQwKQrv_fydV-685fLC71Ng/s1600/IMG_1414.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHWakhRSdhwXYjgT6IKUDF4xulV0V2tBikQrJDMy5_rFKRQMZeWNTo4ae610s2-1FzmASjwOmHDF01j1zrieamNlzwlbg_1Zc4NAQK6SccezezpPWSSx37LQwKQrv_fydV-685fLC71Ng/s400/IMG_1414.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668872520230192722" /></a>From Hanoi we flew to the central Vietnamese city of Hue (pronounced <i>hway</i>). Hue was made the capital of a united Vietnamese kingdom in 1802 when the first emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty defeated a county-wide rebellion and seized the city with the backing of the French. Hue has its own cusine, influenced by both the imperial court and the local environment.<div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCeJXje2z31TBoriFO3KmyomF0JLVhKOH4R3ojR1cD9fPKbMNWtdwEwfxXwiz_vUl89gFxFnsibQoVjIQE2qjUP8_LBY_KD8mQKQiLptrcGGzzqnKYIRQQhDMqUqH-dKcwv7IQ-jgk0sA/s1600/IMG_1413.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCeJXje2z31TBoriFO3KmyomF0JLVhKOH4R3ojR1cD9fPKbMNWtdwEwfxXwiz_vUl89gFxFnsibQoVjIQE2qjUP8_LBY_KD8mQKQiLptrcGGzzqnKYIRQQhDMqUqH-dKcwv7IQ-jgk0sA/s400/IMG_1413.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668872406189872002" /></a>For breakfast one morning, we enjoyed com hen: freshwater river snail, sliced star fruit, mint, peanut, chili, banana flower, fried pork skin and rice noodles. The river snail is the part that is very special to Hue and it was great.</div><div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf_szVuHOTZg8q13hEGwLZCd5Rt7qNDuzJSbSKqlwKLvv03ePMNNVP-yIX3pGjMC6neTHigqfbnGpHIbsclMLRPZj6k1uERQGtVHZ9xPX434DHNlIElhEV00BBPQbJlrUI75zbacLtbQ0/s400/IMG_1358.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668871798443833474" />The Perfume River, home of the delicious river snail.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjgL7UYmE-4eE0aNC0SDp3tvV0P3mBykghUsuCb6CBTOZe9KeQiJrOwLU9InUkmZxSBUIe2Yyz9HPBqqjJRoVnwuX3UZYznnTn_IcCsu8abZW4AdkH6k8NpkbDACiTldVc5ll3oKDNnAY/s1600/IMG_1383.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjgL7UYmE-4eE0aNC0SDp3tvV0P3mBykghUsuCb6CBTOZe9KeQiJrOwLU9InUkmZxSBUIe2Yyz9HPBqqjJRoVnwuX3UZYznnTn_IcCsu8abZW4AdkH6k8NpkbDACiTldVc5ll3oKDNnAY/s1600/IMG_1383.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjgL7UYmE-4eE0aNC0SDp3tvV0P3mBykghUsuCb6CBTOZe9KeQiJrOwLU9InUkmZxSBUIe2Yyz9HPBqqjJRoVnwuX3UZYznnTn_IcCsu8abZW4AdkH6k8NpkbDACiTldVc5ll3oKDNnAY/s400/IMG_1383.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668872274941462162" /></a>Here we have one of the Nguyen emperors with his advisors. Many Nguyen emperors were deposed over the course of the 19th century by an overbearing French interference in local affairs. This intimidating diplomacy was the beginning of imperialism in Indochina that eventually led to the direct control by France of the country in the 1870's. The Nguyen Dynasty held on essentially as puppets until 1945 with the end of World War II when the last emperor abdicated and the country was launched into the first Indochina war with France for independence.</div><div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKubj2DJQJTQWmiHOzMxTH8xpm2tlpDv4h_NsR185uWRtzbEIJTGAhn3AynCwJBy3QAY0lKlazpFsZJHqxjE66DrcM6DRPrtPoz-47UaAhbNvtNwB8d-cYIki4y3f_v7cH_WmdZGWXMy4/s400/IMG_1372.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668871383036437826" />When the Nguyens took power at the beginning of the 19th century, ending years of civil strife, rebellion, and a battle for power with the Trinh lords based in Hanoi, they built an impressive imperial citadel in Hue to represent their new status. The design was influenced by the Forbidden City in Beijing as well as French military architecture and took years of work by local artisians and craftspeople to complete. Although the world was entering the modern era, Nguyen Vietnam (with influence from France and Qing China) was a grand and glorious court of splendor that harked back to earlier times.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzOO2WnMADAkucGlzZExPATHzO0akx75nPy_WLo-rXcqEg11hkrVeekvyrTmVc5gTayKeW1dOlpTytWMEboOL5iQPTlpVLTKfPB8k2whpiYOhq3clLSv-awxwQeQY0K2X8D1fxM2nPLXQ/s400/IMG_1400.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668870440733936386" />Unfortunately Hue, like much of central Vietnam, was right at the epicenter of both the French Indochina war and the second Indochina war with the United States. The imperial city was mostly destroyed by Vietnamese mortor shells and US napalm when Hue was occupied by North Vietnamese forces during the Tet Offensive. </div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuWYRKiuaRm4DyPjTgFkSGCDRLN2SPuSqy6gmOw6UV_5CKwv4v9CkV1X3gIjHBecog3db4Az_8RkQ_CJ35Wxj3CHe8VzNG6ccIVnD9c-j8uMHlyzlU8VtOly-EqbvJLhyphenhyphen795bpzizW41Y/s400/IMG_1380.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668872126840994306" />A model shows the layout and proportions of the imperial city. 80% of these buildings were destroyed during the war.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlwpntJHwtwPttfNBx1Pf3QgEWv_TmV69wYgfQuM2Uc01u_5VQQvy5HlLvpbQRGjeeUuboVd1mt9UTKRei5PLOeW0-hJrPDnyTd4b6d_r613Aygr-L8-8Eg_uBJp5bkmQ9gFe0Arex3lk/s400/IMG_1391.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668870824104179762" /><div style="text-align: left;">UNESCO is working with local authorities to restore the imperial enclosure, piece by painstaking piece. The result is a fascinating mix of ruins, partial ruins, empty parkland, and glitteringly restored or rebuilt structures spread over several square acres.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ8Bg180-QEU2eYXpBCd8N6A5bpCyaQ44mu4rYhvSEc-Lm6mmUZ80wltRFFcQQpub_htF4w8K-LhyphenhyphenJzq_BHmVhGWPIypdQotjHFUSUGNrSR-YOGF2CjzuJxCAiln5CLWbb70xUdWeR9GQ/s400/IMG_1404.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668870324525284290" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7UmJMQGJeEkLC5YKLGBuRh40oXZsdDVlSUFsWa_QHNvQLZ0Kn69jLJZzf0HxVvo1Gypu9mSA_IaQ_NTDD6Y8p9nzNtZuHA3S3HKBvVa3u6brYzyyqUUki5OXnNw4qGRAoRPAdYEDeQXg/s400/IMG_1382.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668871157183395026" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMxKS6glnoWcGkQwIew5klK2vR2usODuKAQPoeQX72y-VB3RPljRoJrQByVT7xQUxlTwHlEO8uppEgBaOzgG5OYI69i7YJxrDcfRxhYn-Mjeqep1h1TgccIOPvcqgM4KLd48iW6VGocBA/s400/IMG_1388.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668871005942598530" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOQaTc28gd7tq3jrXhAs41R1n0WRBcptwIymCvbVjpNVE3Liy2LSudCB19UaQ48Uq5UM7ViTqsJyNbuM85maLnruW-X7ACYkTuyqC169tasqPyJNsdUHu5zLgDACvFNUyvnmMLG6osWUI/s400/IMG_1390.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668870907547422194" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi91RbdLv9lq9OhBAoQMNlNwFqjINfL8X9oZLf6VIsXcx5frOI4IKiMMO5jOThaKSf3nrEa_wrI80Wb0fxbm8gAMj0O5QN3jnRLXdeB9_CzeI6N3IZwNS-SPTJNG6Dd4Wp2XjslK6WwpyA/s400/IMG_1405.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668870185522731970" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrRuZ4dg7d4jGjACY8WQMBCoPg7sgj73kcQ2l6ERip9-0rgULuCJjpnrEBu-l0Q-lg9gT6wqPI7uFME1mDrZzHcOo9Qk0Rdms8Yg9otET0yqwZ2tk9KWoJcEE-c3sOGZhNUndS-MS-qJI/s400/IMG_1407.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668870056450076162" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrPlqWiqaaj2SSSILDdKGgquzS_wPuG321DCR-OVEKLmj7WbkYNU4kdyDmc_g3Sdb7TjBc1zAs4F9QDCiyTHmmkKqx8Iy6g60NnvGBQOn1a6sXb8o_EQKV99igCW_Z0YtFQBM_F7mM8qQ/s400/IMG_1408.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668869923810443922" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMhJV0uxtLGIV2dlZKjeRJTx7pp_duW7ndnpWYnmP-JWDH7axPXCkp7YK_PMPRbkFb9O_SHeUAOzL_EwPaw_xnU-29KYQLQ4oTdrxkQmJD4jSZDfUb3_Pri224a5OWST0zsvaskEHi_fw/s400/IMG_1395.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668870698103580962" />A Vietnamese period piece was being shot on the grounds as we walked around.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC93riVlSLgB8pGDZZF7Ci0Tj55s4qajrRp5eHjzToUVnLgOq0W8Qt4wS9QMGTqqRCRuaqom5RRev0tlScqQwV7oNjOGeIDWm8c63FEkD7C91ih0-CAaHS4ZZQlZOZdwYZ2NwYNxSZV6s/s1600/IMG_1339.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC93riVlSLgB8pGDZZF7Ci0Tj55s4qajrRp5eHjzToUVnLgOq0W8Qt4wS9QMGTqqRCRuaqom5RRev0tlScqQwV7oNjOGeIDWm8c63FEkD7C91ih0-CAaHS4ZZQlZOZdwYZ2NwYNxSZV6s/s1600/IMG_1339.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC93riVlSLgB8pGDZZF7Ci0Tj55s4qajrRp5eHjzToUVnLgOq0W8Qt4wS9QMGTqqRCRuaqom5RRev0tlScqQwV7oNjOGeIDWm8c63FEkD7C91ih0-CAaHS4ZZQlZOZdwYZ2NwYNxSZV6s/s400/IMG_1339.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668871990835491986" /></a>A hallway in our French colonial era-hotel near the imperial city.</div><div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbksabIhGAhsKogExigBBMm7tMliEbGJYMIb7170EOfmqvMKd2NzRxzzGYAgNHKsBRUVnZFE5cjePiqnha6gIPjClVmiUPdt7Zf6ekq6f4pwkZtKPqEWI_odBPN8o5dFQb5PKItQApHf0/s400/IMG_1362.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668871680525694914" />Just outside town is the Thien Mu Pagoda. Originally founded in 1601 when Hue was merely a provincial town, the current pagoda and nearby temple were built in 1844 by the Nguyen emperor Theiu Tri. After the partition of Vietnam (post-French Indochina war) Thien Mu became a nexus of political opposition against the policies of anti-Buddhist, pro-Catholic, US-backed South Vietnamese president, Ngo Dinh Diem. It was from this temple in 1963 that a monk named Thich Quang Duc left for Saigon where he set himself on fire and burned himself to death in protest. Images of his self-immolation were spread around the world.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPsc3FsOXFo-dz24vqU2QxalENlLUxiUoodQI-lhugFg3jo7rd5SlbKFEBoFP3BZSgaUVexmMzfDNKVvPSEJ1PKlcEKTY1JKl299HWZ0EWrIq9PRbKwXfyW7jxYF1_LnIxIPtvlYRd_VM/s1600/IMG_1345.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The ghosts and darkness of this country's wars are much more tangible in central Vietnam than in the north. We also visited a prison site where US and South Vietnamese forces held and tortured North Vietnamese and Viet Cong (the civilian guerrilla wariors fighting for the north) in the 1960's and 70's. The current heavy-handed propoganda at the site leaves nothing to the imagination, but of course fails to mention the postwar purges and "re-education" the victorious communists doled out to southern Vietnamese leaders and intellectuals after 1975. The bottom line is that the Vietnam War (like all war) was brutal and horrifying. Despite the optimism and positive changes in Vietnamese society in recent years, the wounds of humanitarian crimes carried out by all sides (not least of all the United States) are still very, very evident here.</div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-11176518819120114412011-10-25T07:59:00.035-04:002011-10-26T21:16:48.882-04:00HALONG BAY & THO HA<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAxvKzUMayJK272K1Lf5YyMJjf1cHLtPmAiySjyY8HHgw6PBYL15zznyoP-MhV5Ye_oxG6fdudOJZvgQOKtO9sLo-O0KGOgY_vUrnFBuzGmleN5sdWaNSxnFPf_FCMvMNhywg8vmpKPpI/s1600/IMG_1261.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAxvKzUMayJK272K1Lf5YyMJjf1cHLtPmAiySjyY8HHgw6PBYL15zznyoP-MhV5Ye_oxG6fdudOJZvgQOKtO9sLo-O0KGOgY_vUrnFBuzGmleN5sdWaNSxnFPf_FCMvMNhywg8vmpKPpI/s400/IMG_1261.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667405754403911186" /></a>While it may be a heavy touristed stop on the Vietnam circuit, Halong Bay is nonetheless one of the most spectacular places I have ever seen. On par with <a href="http://ahawkfromahandsaw.blogspot.com/2010_01_01_archive.html">Milford Sound</a> and northern Iceland. We set out from Hanoi, past rice patties that are quickly being turned into housing developments and through villages that are sprouting 5 story "rocket houses" along the main road... all part of Vietnam's 25 year leap from isolated communist collective to go-go capitalist dictatorship.<div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj11GfqejpEArdSccLevIJFtCDf1TPi6JLUpAYgP1AsPuLrX1hJiKPSdQJXJH1VHQYLjl_hx053KsryOkk93bYzSzeKZvZa40WapCGnAqGl5dGIAJuVP0i2Sw2n2LGj-cFzShunlTdOoJ4/s1600/IMG_1101.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj11GfqejpEArdSccLevIJFtCDf1TPi6JLUpAYgP1AsPuLrX1hJiKPSdQJXJH1VHQYLjl_hx053KsryOkk93bYzSzeKZvZa40WapCGnAqGl5dGIAJuVP0i2Sw2n2LGj-cFzShunlTdOoJ4/s400/IMG_1101.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667405512446016882" /></a>As you approach the bay, the landscape reveals itself. The structures in the shallows are fishermans' watch towers where they sometimes sleep to guard over their fish farms.<div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabullpl-6NgumHavQ9Lp2huKA8MWdblZsra_Ce9lKFDucI1Ri2f7nzNI8EKPApjiG-7gP8sOl9lNtPJ81i8DWGCDljqUKQwfzo1xiLmV41MXBhZiwk99R-dG8BVnfAUmvDbSuYzGj8j4/s1600/IMG_1144.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabullpl-6NgumHavQ9Lp2huKA8MWdblZsra_Ce9lKFDucI1Ri2f7nzNI8EKPApjiG-7gP8sOl9lNtPJ81i8DWGCDljqUKQwfzo1xiLmV41MXBhZiwk99R-dG8BVnfAUmvDbSuYzGj8j4/s400/IMG_1144.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667405396659565426" /></a>We set out on a warm, crystal clear afternoon for an overnight cruise into magic land.<div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWHjA9pBYDOEi7TCoViKduaX40DlOaltO8s3SX4FKWH1VrCYJwK_F0VkEMNIRHfjC1ZVgJkwCrBD7gzAikX3TZJTyQEFTEeZdY0QsCULxxrkhaDHDmasNaDnd8Zo2N_rnggTeQ9F4sVWc/s1600/IMG_1177.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWHjA9pBYDOEi7TCoViKduaX40DlOaltO8s3SX4FKWH1VrCYJwK_F0VkEMNIRHfjC1ZVgJkwCrBD7gzAikX3TZJTyQEFTEeZdY0QsCULxxrkhaDHDmasNaDnd8Zo2N_rnggTeQ9F4sVWc/s400/IMG_1177.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667405255848427314" /></a>First stop was a small fishing village. Fisherman and their families still live in these floating towns. At one time they lived in houseboats, sailing the bay and raising fish in small netted farms. The network of small inlets, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, protects them from storms. Nowadays, the village has permanent floating houses, generators, TVs, and boats with engines. Tourism provides a steady income. We definitely felt a part of the tourist trap, but honestly it did not matter. It was still fantastic to see.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIQhaMCBxPuOmnbl-HIjAgdChbjBIPwuL8HLbVuj7ECRrCe2Yd1xzHSg9DNTS9omV96LiWvthWo8SLoOVUlU8uwPRNyMeFsWckeh0JMmVJQJ3JiNsAfXMhJnf_XNVkJH2bIKuJuz_3YNY/s1600/IMG_1199.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIQhaMCBxPuOmnbl-HIjAgdChbjBIPwuL8HLbVuj7ECRrCe2Yd1xzHSg9DNTS9omV96LiWvthWo8SLoOVUlU8uwPRNyMeFsWckeh0JMmVJQJ3JiNsAfXMhJnf_XNVkJH2bIKuJuz_3YNY/s400/IMG_1199.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667405113552284962" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQCP9zSGuoNGYq97qZqyfY_gaq8_WdQUiRSjSmyJ6ptKYv3tyrlBHV6gVyS6-QpxiNayUi_XL-hjRjVETVRwh5YoEMB0lOq1-2LENFU9Wk4z9BUgv2rNCH59ouzKafqWnOIhwW_J9hawg/s1600/IMG_1202.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQCP9zSGuoNGYq97qZqyfY_gaq8_WdQUiRSjSmyJ6ptKYv3tyrlBHV6gVyS6-QpxiNayUi_XL-hjRjVETVRwh5YoEMB0lOq1-2LENFU9Wk4z9BUgv2rNCH59ouzKafqWnOIhwW_J9hawg/s400/IMG_1202.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667404915309032530" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiupYpgC6fXfcDYB01g1-oO3-JYe2GrBt44IGYZbMiibBhqq2Bq9RfacdoAf43CiDCYVrC6PvqGXwIXCxrBY6ib4LGee2_l61ayeB34NeOGcgaNFRwmvJydQuH_9FhdatwZL0fVvPJSbR8/s1600/IMG_1205.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiupYpgC6fXfcDYB01g1-oO3-JYe2GrBt44IGYZbMiibBhqq2Bq9RfacdoAf43CiDCYVrC6PvqGXwIXCxrBY6ib4LGee2_l61ayeB34NeOGcgaNFRwmvJydQuH_9FhdatwZL0fVvPJSbR8/s400/IMG_1205.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667404809953029730" /></a>Here you see how they did it before tourism and gasoline: with a vegetable dyed sail and a tiny boat, equiped for a night or two out in the bay. Back then, it would have been even more peaceful in Halong Bay than it was during our short stay.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLPL6DzpKAgGi6GEwFdZTtREVWS4xqEBDChg0NjtD_S1XgCAE_7I2inMSz1281xxD_GrZAUoH_jgiF2mMmTF4Xl_dVZLuMeKqRBjT7ki4TvDJZ-_IxHNnTVf5TffCNQRjvFzVvD_QpNwM/s1600/IMG_1207.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLPL6DzpKAgGi6GEwFdZTtREVWS4xqEBDChg0NjtD_S1XgCAE_7I2inMSz1281xxD_GrZAUoH_jgiF2mMmTF4Xl_dVZLuMeKqRBjT7ki4TvDJZ-_IxHNnTVf5TffCNQRjvFzVvD_QpNwM/s400/IMG_1207.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667404644976158546" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJIy5ib_l82tnUKjhU34LD2pEhwXfz9A171RLpgYojh8xxOyebJmwKZGgEvG1C7uCYHtoEi25iPJmya9iwlua7GlZ7EkkDzmrDYSlQYKUNWykibjoKwqpVhPKslXIaLQGIUYQdwjDGYVA/s1600/IMG_1216.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJIy5ib_l82tnUKjhU34LD2pEhwXfz9A171RLpgYojh8xxOyebJmwKZGgEvG1C7uCYHtoEi25iPJmya9iwlua7GlZ7EkkDzmrDYSlQYKUNWykibjoKwqpVhPKslXIaLQGIUYQdwjDGYVA/s400/IMG_1216.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667404509199532098" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_gQ-jHXgA5OXffkBbcgCcmIkspXw1M2nr5ywPSSOgUkWDB-Tzr3HGIQdIuhwI0ClAMaKvfJZKCQXYLEEC15sjlIsS2j-Fv80wIliL-Er03bIHASxl4ZkFZMSYcE8u6n704IgIqa4A5YU/s1600/IMG_1235.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_gQ-jHXgA5OXffkBbcgCcmIkspXw1M2nr5ywPSSOgUkWDB-Tzr3HGIQdIuhwI0ClAMaKvfJZKCQXYLEEC15sjlIsS2j-Fv80wIliL-Er03bIHASxl4ZkFZMSYcE8u6n704IgIqa4A5YU/s400/IMG_1235.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667404356564674306" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6xvVeIODGCpO_3jT86fDLkjWwpyzKxR5QLbhJ8KMR3OVTcVym1POLZC4AmhAXg2bh7iPQ17i60m7Nt0g_TJ4dz1446JlXi0IIkt7lJJffngEY9cbqluM6Leti-8F07AuHPg5bh_i1Q2g/s1600/IMG_1236.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6xvVeIODGCpO_3jT86fDLkjWwpyzKxR5QLbhJ8KMR3OVTcVym1POLZC4AmhAXg2bh7iPQ17i60m7Nt0g_TJ4dz1446JlXi0IIkt7lJJffngEY9cbqluM6Leti-8F07AuHPg5bh_i1Q2g/s400/IMG_1236.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667404207068343010" /></a>Sunset. </div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6mkP58Rhz_Vf0w22yvZIFh_gLpHFeLIbZ6vS8L6FMuEMIQQMOZLr7FXF-gdC0UW8i5bXN1CfvLkZl2xvdrZgLT5HtsO3Ax9x8O2OKNaOmxKf8xxgY6kNQ0qyOdM2omG5JhFWAjCPb_f0/s1600/IMG_1258.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6mkP58Rhz_Vf0w22yvZIFh_gLpHFeLIbZ6vS8L6FMuEMIQQMOZLr7FXF-gdC0UW8i5bXN1CfvLkZl2xvdrZgLT5HtsO3Ax9x8O2OKNaOmxKf8xxgY6kNQ0qyOdM2omG5JhFWAjCPb_f0/s400/IMG_1258.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667404084781717714" /></a>And sunrise the following day.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR7hOeb-ALQKVyD_3GcQ8dquK_P-TM5awdrhfHpphA6VrDJYx4yPa2Df8WPJwban0tLOsksbqlmoCZeEWCgyVLsIQA4liQCzGDw2WLsGQHmn7FHbOr0no4ytqsuWRyQbZHViqfmUqk0fY/s1600/IMG_1282.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR7hOeb-ALQKVyD_3GcQ8dquK_P-TM5awdrhfHpphA6VrDJYx4yPa2Df8WPJwban0tLOsksbqlmoCZeEWCgyVLsIQA4liQCzGDw2WLsGQHmn7FHbOr0no4ytqsuWRyQbZHViqfmUqk0fY/s400/IMG_1282.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667402760218566098" /></a>On the way back to Hanoi we stopped for a roadside meal, including lau ech (wild frog) in a hot pot and ca qua (snake head fish) killed in front of us, deep fried and served with lots of herbs and vinegar. Totally beyond words delectable.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd59F74D3xTtCv4ZYqWe3Dg5FW3uIBVEcnrY5VoA0ZpImXBNZSgF2RwPwyEIFx2R4LNnkCE4NEttbizawrVaBvOjmJiEju7ce3NlXxTZ6YcpUi44LVh7s2BM3MEVK8Yg5stwwXjJ9KVxQ/s1600/IMG_1283.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd59F74D3xTtCv4ZYqWe3Dg5FW3uIBVEcnrY5VoA0ZpImXBNZSgF2RwPwyEIFx2R4LNnkCE4NEttbizawrVaBvOjmJiEju7ce3NlXxTZ6YcpUi44LVh7s2BM3MEVK8Yg5stwwXjJ9KVxQ/s400/IMG_1283.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667402512174436002" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpMK1AE6aBYWsNlpYgcL5x_iG7ZYV3NV-9FkRVAkU9QSxVtlYEvXdzpLLzY8yArxDpQ7CoFCu-SZZ8JMOzmX5sD9UPE8mhqAGg8maTvqdHOEbtRPkB0MoyuUCnbqNlbeu8y0BsGeHSS1A/s1600/IMG_1287.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpMK1AE6aBYWsNlpYgcL5x_iG7ZYV3NV-9FkRVAkU9QSxVtlYEvXdzpLLzY8yArxDpQ7CoFCu-SZZ8JMOzmX5sD9UPE8mhqAGg8maTvqdHOEbtRPkB0MoyuUCnbqNlbeu8y0BsGeHSS1A/s400/IMG_1287.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667402182951425586" /></a>The fish flakes right off and is wrapped in rice paper with the herbs, ginger, cucumber and pineapple.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfKn8aPCVC7EwkvHqTLO43AVWIltJS3RLmV4a7NUt_Hnzv6rUuaG5DcfxcTx6I6cPZG2lpJxYN3_tgiQpId0b1GyW1Izg_8Wm6P1Q0uEPYNd4ylSYuGkOG6tvjYxGHfh-QPznBphogAI/s1600/IMG_1289.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfKn8aPCVC7EwkvHqTLO43AVWIltJS3RLmV4a7NUt_Hnzv6rUuaG5DcfxcTx6I6cPZG2lpJxYN3_tgiQpId0b1GyW1Izg_8Wm6P1Q0uEPYNd4ylSYuGkOG6tvjYxGHfh-QPznBphogAI/s400/IMG_1289.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667401783540885346" /></a>About and hour from the airport (we had a long day!) we stopped in the village of Tho Ha. Before the advent of plastic, Tho Ha was a center of terra cotta vessel making. All your household needs: buckets, pails, pots, and jugs would have come from Tho Ha and similar villages surrounding Hanoi.</div><div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFBFIUwBJqzoecZrWf_AcuuWKkLQwr3eMYTaG3WzBulo5b_5QofM4u6Aa7eDjyy18aMTDo6mVNwO77YjhyphenhyphenQxn82mC_B3TMePuAFKwdTGjTa4z-NP_Wt6pj_PAaQDCKVbGzksIuTkQ2oMU/s400/IMG_1328.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667401278015208146" />Another day-to-day item made in Tho Ha were secondary coffins. In Vietnamese tradition (actually pre-dating Buddhism) the dead were buried once, dug up 3 years later by the eldest living child and the bones cleaned with herbs, then reburied in a smaller coffin likes the ones used in the wall above. In more recent times, secondary coffins of cement or stone are more widly used and these extra terra cotta ones were put to good use as construction material.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSNo43lT9Y_L015mmDTznn-ijPJKSturhM4ANvYKQkShZNDfIVesw9zGUDioznU7XLwgw6rW-0fhUMmXtt_1d7a3sO-S5m4TRQN_QOjJvuWVV-VNWtU0ye7mWze9rTmKYZjG3U97Gyq8E/s400/IMG_1333.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667401134402221938" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVtHN_GDOA-HjG_C9Wga5SD-3duKO8lTRPH8M4kMrGxv56alcp1S4e-cvxAakg_qmSkTnCS2_MzoMfiOyICnS5uEhYQ39fjwjoaUGcx6XUYQtmh9Pyx-kDnhQACxUrol892hNviD9HWBs/s400/IMG_1334.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667400822588863602" />Since plastic bucket and containers are now used instead of ceramics, the village switched to making rice paper. Above you see rice flour drying on woven flats in the open air to make edible rice paper like the kind used in our lunch.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYt11LvIh-PXtMCLs-fNBF8eWLLkLv676aMH6Lz0SmS7RD0qyDQH3JXSN-a8M-5U7PwAqx3JbndpUZu6s8x7jtAzuKGz3B52HV7pPjCBSMnHooEJoZ9tCGAk8aevSY7wnhC2GSQip9QJc/s1600/IMG_1298.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYt11LvIh-PXtMCLs-fNBF8eWLLkLv676aMH6Lz0SmS7RD0qyDQH3JXSN-a8M-5U7PwAqx3JbndpUZu6s8x7jtAzuKGz3B52HV7pPjCBSMnHooEJoZ9tCGAk8aevSY7wnhC2GSQip9QJc/s400/IMG_1298.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667400555741933666" /></a>Tho Ha's unrestored 16th century Buddist temple. The highlight for me.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQVakXxsD4uuohV2g0-RT6n2RPw_h9BLl-hAOoiQlGhSpmxE8V1tIDQ68QVWO5uNojADHrq779zRlgu84Y8JxvWY4M6WEgFCc1sQUmVBLkvQtPZL3x_048C0bmB1j-v13XnkYHEGQC4gc/s1600/IMG_1299.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQVakXxsD4uuohV2g0-RT6n2RPw_h9BLl-hAOoiQlGhSpmxE8V1tIDQ68QVWO5uNojADHrq779zRlgu84Y8JxvWY4M6WEgFCc1sQUmVBLkvQtPZL3x_048C0bmB1j-v13XnkYHEGQC4gc/s400/IMG_1299.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667400012212665298" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU0gbMOJKXKNIgcvPO9Cz0uKyPCGn96DL9t5liPrXiYtRkpE2qBeMZTiqCC3yfOV62fm-1qYqr-xaJU09FkIOh_LghtwoIybfoIlm5ErNxmjMihNOrzqBWn4wfQ-A6EGp_lg_WcGUQvzg/s1600/IMG_1302.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU0gbMOJKXKNIgcvPO9Cz0uKyPCGn96DL9t5liPrXiYtRkpE2qBeMZTiqCC3yfOV62fm-1qYqr-xaJU09FkIOh_LghtwoIybfoIlm5ErNxmjMihNOrzqBWn4wfQ-A6EGp_lg_WcGUQvzg/s400/IMG_1302.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667399831158684690" /></a>You can see flood damage on the exterior wall. The village floods quite often.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLlBHa5T7VfycZxhnmsIHTYFwgU4atviOXiixL9QK-BgDPBvoicI-QLiSSL-Sj_Cub_v617X9f_Otgx9VKKNmK5lO8Dp_EHdpljGQxd3fjO0PVDf-JA4b8KBb_ko8CTz53oBpzWiPcOmM/s1600/IMG_1307.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLlBHa5T7VfycZxhnmsIHTYFwgU4atviOXiixL9QK-BgDPBvoicI-QLiSSL-Sj_Cub_v617X9f_Otgx9VKKNmK5lO8Dp_EHdpljGQxd3fjO0PVDf-JA4b8KBb_ko8CTz53oBpzWiPcOmM/s400/IMG_1307.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667399632538199522" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRWDgxGET2seNkS9bDXE8qLb8XcJDgXrPJbWU9IuZOHQLStH0ONh8x_fYPdkOTLuFvgPur_w5rIW7Tba-vMxRI61lV_l9dWJFY4PmhVr4sf1Kl1y4zeIBshLCS7KggOj9i_0wk_Nz5vPY/s1600/IMG_1308.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRWDgxGET2seNkS9bDXE8qLb8XcJDgXrPJbWU9IuZOHQLStH0ONh8x_fYPdkOTLuFvgPur_w5rIW7Tba-vMxRI61lV_l9dWJFY4PmhVr4sf1Kl1y4zeIBshLCS7KggOj9i_0wk_Nz5vPY/s400/IMG_1308.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667399304317450722" /></a>Inside the temple.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGNB1NRuOgxJNBYKcVlYgFxdsgHlcu2vc2HLb4rBfbck7t2B4vXhkSYTcFtgkkvUWdag0WZZkklm17ESDiO1FMLBJhFEq-ChBenvJwEPaKs6FK1zs87oIkpL-88RUZmGsFQFSRD_Lz-cg/s1600/IMG_1312.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGNB1NRuOgxJNBYKcVlYgFxdsgHlcu2vc2HLb4rBfbck7t2B4vXhkSYTcFtgkkvUWdag0WZZkklm17ESDiO1FMLBJhFEq-ChBenvJwEPaKs6FK1zs87oIkpL-88RUZmGsFQFSRD_Lz-cg/s400/IMG_1312.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667399064675814098" /></a></div></div></div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-27037641017543405902011-10-23T18:35:00.028-04:002011-10-25T07:57:02.164-04:00HANOI<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ICMBqp2K7p9rCGIcZK_TmD7i-fCtrEh6tIEsiP4O8sqHMQkNBeE9EgbmDl2yLIL6o7WqgUNBA6DCndlQStB_Y98-UpJ5Loykao_VK01Ls3Z8JAPjQ6C954A4KvXy1zOFqUJ0QXZCb_U/s1600/IMG_0932.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ICMBqp2K7p9rCGIcZK_TmD7i-fCtrEh6tIEsiP4O8sqHMQkNBeE9EgbmDl2yLIL6o7WqgUNBA6DCndlQStB_Y98-UpJ5Loykao_VK01Ls3Z8JAPjQ6C954A4KvXy1zOFqUJ0QXZCb_U/s400/IMG_0932.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666825507085819810" /></a>We arrived in Hanoi at night and sped into the city from the airport, caught up in bustle and mopeds and the strong smell of smoke from the post-harvest burns of the surrounding rice fields. Over the next two days, with only mildly disorienting jet-lag, we explored the city. It is truly beautiful: an exotic mix of 13th century old quarter, 19th century French colonial grace, 20th century communist grandiosity, and 21st century capitalist fervor.<div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1IKIlG7-PWrN5-UhSf2i5Y96coFp1ENejAwgCIMGtgZ14vTToDtknu3hc6cRbZonmnNh4lN44DJIYN8-LmkeP7_z5II1oC1GntRZvoodhRdJjJBTt-cw2pVu0WkIumUfyF3NX1qIisbQ/s400/IMG_0935.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666823964999234962" />First founded by Emperor Ly Thai To in 1010 AD, it was originally called Thang Long (City of the Soaring Dragon) after the emperor defeated the occupying Chinese, who had held northern Vietnam under either direct or tributary control for nearly 1000 years, and who would invade countless more times after that. The city has many beautiful lakes, left over after centuries of dyke building contained Red River floods and opened up areas to development. The lake pictured above, Hoan Kiem, is home to huge turtles over 100 years old and this bridge dating from the 19th century which leads to Den Ngoc Son (Jade Mountain Temple). The temple honors the spirits of soil, medicine and literature as well as historical figure Tran Hung Do, a general who defeated the Mongol invasion in the 13th century. The layers and layers of architecture, history, and varied religious beliefs washes over Hanoi in a way that is both wonderful and hard to truly understand.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixj4LgI5N3gN-lgSDq7pPcKe-TG6jxbPLkneOLIFEEkPlduFn60hUflHreSritYUpyjzNvPguyOUQVI-_EiLNXe8WWD_G3lFOM58obv6YMUg76L9dRAuufC_XNCHbMKAYpfjOhJoi7420/s400/IMG_0898.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666824992713660642" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwbq7-ddPbC4amdGlDpvvJj6h7MhVoh0maxHJJFdR0G3zAl0ymMHZQQDeoE4xaHZkuaNFgoZsQN6saaSAvq8VeuzNFjYMRod7saMoMeN0ELeEzpyBZVI8QSoCWgS-hRL3ev0yX1c2IGRU/s400/IMG_0901.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666825144406787922" />Scenes from the an 11th century temple near the one pillar pagoda. There is a blend of symbolism from Buddhism, Taoism, Confucian philisophy, ancestor and historical figure veneration, even animism. The most powerful and binding force, of course, is Mahayana Buddhism brought from China.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJJ24zRBuzCLhWMeYIMluf9Fh0ggjc2mSVBJ4oOTT1955dPN8Jrob1YQxFUqxKHa5s1FGYziV7ZXt5G9EmokJhwsSHzg0lVIv4y_U9iSIiv95LbvKHCavlNy-wXj3Bb3SDTScIM5nSgdQ/s400/IMG_0878.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666824837088809266" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZMJEgUPUaNCFC3ouOCv4wG6uPeeO4v_ir1A4o0ZvTVRZea4-yJEGalaj4_C93S0-E8ic0A48sOJwC257IDdb8QV3PstVWbOL6yYO6WoaA1_8Cqlt0fxJNzjuLQ1h8hItp7nFDDXxCYq0/s400/IMG_0962.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666823066120779906" /><div style="text-align: left;">Ho Chi Minh is definitely the most venerated of all historical figures and the father of modern Vietnamese nationalism. His 1970's masoleum is not subtle. Vietman may have opened up and changed drastically since 1986 reforms wound down the government controlled collective economy and allowed capitalism to take root, but national pride is still not taken lightly here. The history museum covered each and every failed attempt at conquest over Vietnam over it's long history.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAKeoRjIUuenRgt4E2mRo1uEsoUOE9EWLSDQieSM5Wcu-ivLhzPV_FCEAAmYHIm1nuiWCs3xgQMg7AkaUFNsXLGzCrs6HeeikdN56RLh1Jo6e3M68OKMkWKdhsrj5ZGLCKvOyzeV1d8Ko/s400/IMG_0969.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666822922034373906" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Scenes from the old quarter, the most intoxicating and eye opening part of town.</div></div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhViCNuqikgMuJBTwoep0-RRAL_RsyEdJJ9yMWAkTSvyeK2_IDiBNibrPGRbfl0PPU5j4FUlPVhI0ILfdTTSz4CMH9pRhfN-6Qha41EFWduMg53gnfHxGYZF_FKTcEobNblcQo8Jan6vs/s400/IMG_0934.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666824132050067746" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_0g6RU3JyLXg0zDYVNvbgsJGLHnFISUs_fdUCqi5a3Lfk8ZOmJCwZyIIlix0cxwFGXjERl7PYTx3ueDZWjyn1cYP4HvIjsNiPLY9h4eBQRbALNtkFniazOLQ1Gaz8e-M6-yMzslAku7k/s1600/IMG_0922.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_0g6RU3JyLXg0zDYVNvbgsJGLHnFISUs_fdUCqi5a3Lfk8ZOmJCwZyIIlix0cxwFGXjERl7PYTx3ueDZWjyn1cYP4HvIjsNiPLY9h4eBQRbALNtkFniazOLQ1Gaz8e-M6-yMzslAku7k/s400/IMG_0922.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666824663200969954" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPz8T7cFQPLa8YaKNNIuhDq99ElvTD0GB2hJFLD_uGpdn8iSxJNM5UX2zh3WQk248FFKwJYTqGSMOeXHrOTXERlzJfLTs40Y6h0A7gnO3zO1Sm4avfvX51EAyJJxSPOJBOvSs29S-JriU/s1600/IMG_0925.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPz8T7cFQPLa8YaKNNIuhDq99ElvTD0GB2hJFLD_uGpdn8iSxJNM5UX2zh3WQk248FFKwJYTqGSMOeXHrOTXERlzJfLTs40Y6h0A7gnO3zO1Sm4avfvX51EAyJJxSPOJBOvSs29S-JriU/s400/IMG_0925.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666824544725466626" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm7TkajUoWtXmwmF2EFpt1cffTZ1KSzvvsCNBcPMFn_TeqAUNl01A8f9-oFrQphd2UJHwaFDxqaPEv80otOV80KjT6xxZRdV7z9liqmOY9KbDied77ghQ5MMQofSUAk0uiBqJagBk4N-M/s1600/IMG_0971.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm7TkajUoWtXmwmF2EFpt1cffTZ1KSzvvsCNBcPMFn_TeqAUNl01A8f9-oFrQphd2UJHwaFDxqaPEv80otOV80KjT6xxZRdV7z9liqmOY9KbDied77ghQ5MMQofSUAk0uiBqJagBk4N-M/s400/IMG_0971.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666822806938774386" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLJAiH2KeBNEHHVrOh4AqWdVDWAweVLpX5pjLz9-A1IXC-xyVxbdCAWyGhmck4T6FrIO4MYOm1kZ59BzYfioEo7e7UuneHimbTx8wHr33H3g5fmn9R8XO2GWv0I4ImMRCJfp-ZjdoGdzQ/s1600/IMG_1011.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLJAiH2KeBNEHHVrOh4AqWdVDWAweVLpX5pjLz9-A1IXC-xyVxbdCAWyGhmck4T6FrIO4MYOm1kZ59BzYfioEo7e7UuneHimbTx8wHr33H3g5fmn9R8XO2GWv0I4ImMRCJfp-ZjdoGdzQ/s400/IMG_1011.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666822660293375714" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6NJkMTnBGmW-TyyxZttM4B8fRNYRYNJowq-2OO6xdugnGsulqP31E1HawrkznXpJMsIH4AgPQfKdHtUAzSsKAHt82IiZ5kppqqkna6QsMm5rZsm4YIJL7PHZQgKf-UbCQUCgaGn3kWM8/s1600/IMG_1026.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6NJkMTnBGmW-TyyxZttM4B8fRNYRYNJowq-2OO6xdugnGsulqP31E1HawrkznXpJMsIH4AgPQfKdHtUAzSsKAHt82IiZ5kppqqkna6QsMm5rZsm4YIJL7PHZQgKf-UbCQUCgaGn3kWM8/s400/IMG_1026.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666822517957925970" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-cmemET-cMd7-NKGuestmPA1yI8ixhyV5OJEtd186y6sGAYVYprYYDvDvRPULQ0Lk_3t9R27uejUVGOmNoAngRzHlXOq1MiRUhAqgqxPkR0ClALM9mW_7hii5C3utWZdWYiyqZKdeKs8/s1600/IMG_1040.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-cmemET-cMd7-NKGuestmPA1yI8ixhyV5OJEtd186y6sGAYVYprYYDvDvRPULQ0Lk_3t9R27uejUVGOmNoAngRzHlXOq1MiRUhAqgqxPkR0ClALM9mW_7hii5C3utWZdWYiyqZKdeKs8/s400/IMG_1040.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666822338338499778" /></a>French colonial architecture.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLK2O3hyphenhyphenxn464lItLeexBXPStsarb4XMMQR_LawnLNfBazA275-r2cFYTkwEokm7HSwkFtCbsS5Je7nXLVWMvalO_uUzo2kqhSyKbVQkW4uH4Q8nP3ezQYOfaIg4Sc3LrJR3FcFW3WoYY/s1600/IMG_1033.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLK2O3hyphenhyphenxn464lItLeexBXPStsarb4XMMQR_LawnLNfBazA275-r2cFYTkwEokm7HSwkFtCbsS5Je7nXLVWMvalO_uUzo2kqhSyKbVQkW4uH4Q8nP3ezQYOfaIg4Sc3LrJR3FcFW3WoYY/s400/IMG_1033.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666822094097225650" /></a>Breakfast, lunch and dinner: Pha bo.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSOMQbld92OQzfCeR8k0cq0nGOa_yA7PDWAmZy0b19NzcGjgZ2me8Qiv7ntY8hnAZi4Iout3QptAfZKRNia5AEnzwPjQFV-F1iMVkvVRTp67g_bFiSnFQ5AOgVoQU9dSCPD8XVZ0mHDPk/s1600/IMG_1000.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSOMQbld92OQzfCeR8k0cq0nGOa_yA7PDWAmZy0b19NzcGjgZ2me8Qiv7ntY8hnAZi4Iout3QptAfZKRNia5AEnzwPjQFV-F1iMVkvVRTp67g_bFiSnFQ5AOgVoQU9dSCPD8XVZ0mHDPk/s400/IMG_1000.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666821758966640834" /></a>Here is a preserved merchant's house from the old quarter much as it would have appeared around the mid-19th century. Store frontage, kept narrow along the street to minimize per-linear foot taxes, leads back to a long series of rooms and courtyards that would have let light and fresh air into all parts of the house. It is genius in its practical design, and still stunning to look at. Very few of these houses remain as the city's density increased and courtyards were filled in with more rooms for habitation and the houses divided up into multiple family dwellings.</div><div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOkOeuR0VZE7CEZc1Q1ZzAw-LAaxgvwBGR9RAJdFMIG5QU79oJQD7WP8ISowMQLTrQ08h3ddBaiCPrAbnJuskJXSIMnc9Eef0lfnvq9hasAax7YmtZbj3CUOZZLW-W3cHFbkzKTB8iReI/s400/IMG_0988.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666821337436247826" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLaZgtj5Ws7Eu8eBPTDibwzfNtpkyep-r3-Rx5lNFVR-C0lb0-q5Av-XzTQO6kdburc75fNRtX4tnoXX7lwBhXKU90QuKp3OsZQyuY5_Hef5gHHdwCcjkY-3MzE2T5wVO1uAEAPaTowo/s1600/IMG_0979.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLaZgtj5Ws7Eu8eBPTDibwzfNtpkyep-r3-Rx5lNFVR-C0lb0-q5Av-XzTQO6kdburc75fNRtX4tnoXX7lwBhXKU90QuKp3OsZQyuY5_Hef5gHHdwCcjkY-3MzE2T5wVO1uAEAPaTowo/s400/IMG_0979.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666821594199934690" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsscMMZsxief1TifiMCsFN-33eU4XhUS-omm86oWXMtj8EKaTW3fjDWsPfsYrqoLEig2WrKeSN31exk_Yl5nWmCJKz_WqrVnPehShT6chyLbXPN5QthGMmR_WtGs3VwBSfJMsIFwDUKMY/s1600/IMG_0985.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsscMMZsxief1TifiMCsFN-33eU4XhUS-omm86oWXMtj8EKaTW3fjDWsPfsYrqoLEig2WrKeSN31exk_Yl5nWmCJKz_WqrVnPehShT6chyLbXPN5QthGMmR_WtGs3VwBSfJMsIFwDUKMY/s400/IMG_0985.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666821458994919250" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTiNcaLd7MoGIMlamzANnQGhdBT4F0fdLuj0yZQYAA-Ehk-ubF3lhB7P4ddDypYiDAgWcyUonkUtyvmol5DLEIPtTBLfqPq4FcRKSPJ_c1aLm8ETD65E4xw3clKvzFJHy5ygjWhSoZtZw/s1600/IMG_1028.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTiNcaLd7MoGIMlamzANnQGhdBT4F0fdLuj0yZQYAA-Ehk-ubF3lhB7P4ddDypYiDAgWcyUonkUtyvmol5DLEIPtTBLfqPq4FcRKSPJ_c1aLm8ETD65E4xw3clKvzFJHy5ygjWhSoZtZw/s400/IMG_1028.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666821164710180226" /></a>Not far from the Memorial merchant's house, this gem of a shop sells gorgeous (and legal for export) antiques. That is the owner's vintage Citroen out front.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_f-ltyaSgFgGDkQ8hGilufiy5xdD-bLA61y2ZPEuj6Igy32Z6cFZssf1mqT1sEZlRcZ9Hes3Uz3sK-Iof-fKhR3rnROOYJb65i6R6IQZIPWtBs1Y0q2Wt_jMA6CJIvLpWOfSdSt-sqJE/s400/IMG_1048.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666820729055234978" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIHElizYK995GxFCrfnDohnQacFj60BY4mEnBKzKbfTNBP_WzcYetsbtRhyphenhyphenU_CEmntCGY15b4F31XkSA4l3g1QHZXMdZCLRUftXYHvgxSSZfH8sJtlQQNUhx_ERP7xg76KRk0xoae6i4c/s1600/IMG_1050.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIHElizYK995GxFCrfnDohnQacFj60BY4mEnBKzKbfTNBP_WzcYetsbtRhyphenhyphenU_CEmntCGY15b4F31XkSA4l3g1QHZXMdZCLRUftXYHvgxSSZfH8sJtlQQNUhx_ERP7xg76KRk0xoae6i4c/s400/IMG_1050.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666820868907999026" /></a>Tucked away in another old "tube house" that still belongs to a single family was Cafe 11 Hang Gai, with multiple levels of private home, cafe, family alter (above) and gardens over four floors with a fantastic view of Hoan Kiem Lake and the surrounding city. </div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-8454977587119994732011-10-19T00:11:00.021-04:002011-10-19T01:03:51.457-04:00SCOTLAND<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwauBvfNRWpcclyxyCz2Ntop0BQZolrwg8Ug6QkfT5ueHphWM2rjpooCZRxOSkLHIKdsD8-1dQbXKMGYYEHN3UtKHWQ1Ftx-DzmORHN170AbutyJKwAisKhrA6Cov8wmNRsc53F7K7-1E/s1600/IMG_0762.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwauBvfNRWpcclyxyCz2Ntop0BQZolrwg8Ug6QkfT5ueHphWM2rjpooCZRxOSkLHIKdsD8-1dQbXKMGYYEHN3UtKHWQ1Ftx-DzmORHN170AbutyJKwAisKhrA6Cov8wmNRsc53F7K7-1E/s400/IMG_0762.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665053318098970066" /></a>It has been an <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">embarrassingly</span> long time since the last entry. Career and marriage took over most of my time in 2011, and both focuses bore results I am very happy about. More about that some other day perhaps. Anyway, in an effort to pick things up here at this dusty, abandoned outpost of history, design, food, travel, and life, I am starting up entries just before we leave for a nearly 7 week trip to Southeast Asia. Here, as a meek sort of "dipping my toes in for the first time in a long time," are images from our recent trip to Scotland.<div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg_dvrniah9XXxbktxrtedB10CtFcCvUtgDAf0TDzYIvx0zTd_xfPcIxS69qCXuqaFTy7tqEtwUqzvl4bESPZ9dRcN1QfZY6ojwFxNzXu4R_6SWiSZnHQUtD6FOnXVeCzXh21yd1RcXL4/s400/IMG_0736.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665053120856295394" />Our first stop after Glasgow was the Isle of Skye, where we stayed with family in a cozy rambling farmhouse perched 300 feet above the sea.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Q0PWNHD-2ASl-h6TqIdo1kMtOcbItSNOD7lWuT8wg9f0GhZpEY1vZ4MzfwGTk3oGlUl7tDO7B8oPN6Mccvhf2ia5g790GRUGgQGemg_brGF0WeQKidAKEPqBOW2yNlSx0-GpRw1tIKE/s1600/IMG_0723.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIP4G1FxA4pGshL2wf5EDN84Gs8eMwdtCIYWbyFmER_ZWv0qkx_hqBnOJ5rVFl0V5QyXlZ70XZT_01_OLBU5wZckcUcuQkFcbFCxY71MjDp86oba0NZn9ygrI1lJ0ozOtkUuqDh2CnHpY/s400/IMG_0771.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665052646591287826" /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglwW-RZJv2h88AI8OWk3eBMXgm-iV89kQ3lBofdlrhSqZs-knq2BZ07Q4JbdmHw5-QWb-7p_BzjRYqRR4sFig_GWmY3JM2YJUwU5DIKPtIfwXFrDHc9BqwrHYB9nID1HjMJHF3bRqAYoE/s400/IMG_0802.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665052169452732818" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaw23H_FUkvNhkFbAmgG3X9LLwLPMAJbq5be1KSlNxLv7XjXxbq4ZQbDD_L4MfBPt3oBXDxNlMshRoemp4fDcGRa1p7CfTuE4Q5ftmA7Yiku1npPIMtM15JCvOC8hLcjUnPU6inh9_w0w/s400/IMG_0798.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665052272156613394" /><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Q0PWNHD-2ASl-h6TqIdo1kMtOcbItSNOD7lWuT8wg9f0GhZpEY1vZ4MzfwGTk3oGlUl7tDO7B8oPN6Mccvhf2ia5g790GRUGgQGemg_brGF0WeQKidAKEPqBOW2yNlSx0-GpRw1tIKE/s400/IMG_0723.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665053220042268306" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7UDrEqWDRK04Zuq8mXnqi5MtaxtsjV5nNlsd9CijByt21dwFfsWSW1RqBQSo_AgO-vTpN4xOvmI5Bg_4Juys7ht92yshuG93-oW8IVQjxfrIrwHO8OyWW1m9TdOIECm1kPs8rdo25p1Y/s400/IMG_0782.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665052547525716146" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit8qHZhsth9klndsGuvtQUFwi6WRRjmHDnLPXyyp4zcHU0l6pDEr8xNyeOD8ILmbvbseA44AliTwQANRCNjuZ0308Ucqmna3gYdIMCIjrazv2r6O5CQgipLg6YwTUBOouxxT-4aMR3xGM/s400/IMG_0792.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665052412320904946" />We hiked to old <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dun">dun</a> ruins, ate hearty soups, read history, and drank whiskey by the peat fire.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaDHOLsp_j4g-5C3uIezJFgDCf21kMZV_vaMvZmNXdb5injjaTm1vvgD9iGvu_u9jDaJYi3QuFX0RoVyJqRyq_FbTPjB3YmYwNnIlANKCgclsaf92Vgq3vtCwJFMbeO3yipm4YzFAh4hY/s400/IMG_0765.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665053003545603314" /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Peats</span> are bits dried turf from bogs that are burned in lieu of fire wood. Here they are being stored in a dry spot.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsFQeEG6FKbzAMcxEbodMclADNTZaBId_QwMlZwL9Eh3YPiSebEQrZBoorAllYqEEtrHtoOYaZE7IQNVH92fmjcHO0cUka4WN2HrP6ipMTAlgdKLV_qL1rKV6yWb1EmYh-4DcXmnhdtkQ/s400/IMG_0803.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665052058458714162" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxDDaaro8tqGGkYt2HHz3ejz6XgwXB-IKGlf7fkFEn6cH4A_tpyb640KdXHpHIQKR3HjlxT50HarFwuDJy-exyQIh3kqiufCLUksGsJSJIkp1Xx_Xl_vL2vWVDETVv4kcP4y8JbTBoZDQ/s400/IMG_0768.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665052783091609906" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw6x7KyUnkvzsHv7NuOG3qhRSvJafwhjMeiSLseeOhj68Xu6iyARA_RGa5pXn11TaJo_Pxg-dhyphenhyphen917Qz3y5_hS9oJOEK65n1DiRhyw8onLlmK9CElR9H8exq8vs1lv2QlFXDkPbjazv74/s1600/IMG_0766.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw6x7KyUnkvzsHv7NuOG3qhRSvJafwhjMeiSLseeOhj68Xu6iyARA_RGa5pXn11TaJo_Pxg-dhyphenhyphen917Qz3y5_hS9oJOEK65n1DiRhyw8onLlmK9CElR9H8exq8vs1lv2QlFXDkPbjazv74/s400/IMG_0766.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665052898961376978" /></a><div style="text-align: left;">We also drove the family cows down to town where some were <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">separated</span> to be sold to market. Life on the farm... where the family raises their own meat and grows most if their own vegetables. Scottish crofters have been practicing <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">locavorism</span> out of necessity and economics since before, during and after the industrial food revolution and the tradition continues today.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8PoHxQ7uZo9oRINTmeKQ0LnVxle6rPdA-3p9zbAl7wS-t7igj9nrbnC63Mu4uzwVrCkA2AjIPFNPfA2xD24VUS0ooVV0w05T16fIKodgUcthLM_PzyL9RsKyo2P2ThhryBfbOaw4WarQ/s1600/IMG_0815.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8PoHxQ7uZo9oRINTmeKQ0LnVxle6rPdA-3p9zbAl7wS-t7igj9nrbnC63Mu4uzwVrCkA2AjIPFNPfA2xD24VUS0ooVV0w05T16fIKodgUcthLM_PzyL9RsKyo2P2ThhryBfbOaw4WarQ/s400/IMG_0815.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665051931433692258" /></a>The trip to Scotland was planned around a cousin's wedding-- a fun, rainy-day affair in a tent in a field near the sea complete with a rainbow and a traditional Scottish <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Céilidh">Ceilidh</a> afterwards which lasted late into the evening. I must say it was really fun.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiULZ01-5otT5A3WoDCe8O7Wbhe1h9cyzzCs8pXQbCTKraL9RO2unHzYXWr7vjf9Myuzex-9X0fGNHbNVWZK7vG6CjdVj3lmaoiaMZt55y8peJw3DGeTGWVw6ayRF3qNs3TKxpe1Frgyvg/s1600/IMG_0861.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiULZ01-5otT5A3WoDCe8O7Wbhe1h9cyzzCs8pXQbCTKraL9RO2unHzYXWr7vjf9Myuzex-9X0fGNHbNVWZK7vG6CjdVj3lmaoiaMZt55y8peJw3DGeTGWVw6ayRF3qNs3TKxpe1Frgyvg/s400/IMG_0861.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665051790279104370" /></a>The sun came out for about 15 minutes on our last day. We used the opportunity to explore the nearby town of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Mallaig</span>. You might know this small windswept village from the movie Breaking the Waves.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMhRthiieGjaMXvPlVh7DPIszCmI04KSHmQhG1gVAGiSbE45jqVNrBIOVeoRP_wR7mILsC0PSNvourcezew3HCO5w0MDLjZqJQRknW0cwPrCdSGeWQPz2LlKsgRRmXcrH3Oi7f7-LFZXI/s1600/IMG_0862.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMhRthiieGjaMXvPlVh7DPIszCmI04KSHmQhG1gVAGiSbE45jqVNrBIOVeoRP_wR7mILsC0PSNvourcezew3HCO5w0MDLjZqJQRknW0cwPrCdSGeWQPz2LlKsgRRmXcrH3Oi7f7-LFZXI/s400/IMG_0862.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665051677981894098" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFB8OTDds_O_m7VNteow4lIbuRCJ14azesi38R6w6wMjcnvpYdXQHDqUwccSkQnq44ojyZJ7aQmbNoe3icJJKVUMFlbdKGJv0LamGw908CXTzoU1wT_LuprJoVrowkKYgU0o03e4T49VA/s1600/IMG_0869.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFB8OTDds_O_m7VNteow4lIbuRCJ14azesi38R6w6wMjcnvpYdXQHDqUwccSkQnq44ojyZJ7aQmbNoe3icJJKVUMFlbdKGJv0LamGw908CXTzoU1wT_LuprJoVrowkKYgU0o03e4T49VA/s400/IMG_0869.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665051558328936946" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkngGqDSaF8-HCL-xQ6ieECV03b1uFNgniMTZeZkV30yDO569BqB0GtTydgBFc-zmxZ8Qme9tUX_9LCid-mfUSk14jWPjYEpGfOVwEOelC5LQSyNci6gioC9Pvwzwp4gJfcCDOQ74NoYk/s1600/IMG_0870.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkngGqDSaF8-HCL-xQ6ieECV03b1uFNgniMTZeZkV30yDO569BqB0GtTydgBFc-zmxZ8Qme9tUX_9LCid-mfUSk14jWPjYEpGfOVwEOelC5LQSyNci6gioC9Pvwzwp4gJfcCDOQ74NoYk/s400/IMG_0870.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665051455271392738" /></a>More posts of our journey to Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand coming soon...<br /><br /></div></div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-38811690919400620572011-03-31T12:36:00.002-04:002011-04-03T22:28:04.125-04:00NOMA<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWMKioA4eJlMFP4DAnvewIa6u1QV90JCr0iMgExAyurwDiS6qf3CVuhIl03NWW6YVHCAVV9gZUm5yExeh0-eaA9bppWDlYC0UG2EDN_eQRRUfy_HhhaORsAgmdnGrrvmBH2o9yvLTHB6c/s1600/IMG_3763.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWMKioA4eJlMFP4DAnvewIa6u1QV90JCr0iMgExAyurwDiS6qf3CVuhIl03NWW6YVHCAVV9gZUm5yExeh0-eaA9bppWDlYC0UG2EDN_eQRRUfy_HhhaORsAgmdnGrrvmBH2o9yvLTHB6c/s400/IMG_3763.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588804596880626578" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;">We were fortunate enough to have friends in Copenhagen who worked to get a reservation at Noma. Noma serves reinterpreted Nordic/Scandinavian cuisine and has been rated as the world's best restaurant (now that El Bulli is closing). We had very high expectations. The restaurant is located in a former warehouse in the Christianshavn neighborhood across from the tourist center of Copenhagen. We were greeted by chef Rene Redzepi who has worked at El Bulli in Spain and French Laundry in California. The first course was preceded by a series of snacks. The first was a malt flatbread in the form of a twig and juniper creme. We were instructed to pick the flatbread out of the table's centerpiece. Clearly this was not going to be your typical fine dining experience. The flatbread was followed by <i>fried moss</i> as you see above.</div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWJ44WIHzArizhwIzo9sFRbgHErJ2AUagQCBAbKmrVdfNxGxlGCLvAnczTXDeieLloOJ2ZsqEELopBIlZ7pw8SVVw9hqTl6LHvHsEyVjJ5CukwcCOYDD0J0PDUHdOgtdXuC8V1kXarzrw/s400/IMG_3764.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588803929346996930" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /><div style="text-align: left;">The next snack was a seabuckthron leather (fruit rollup-esque) with pickled hip roses.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcTLRsVHTkh3r0smp9F-evXst_ENzKMI6eOeN7HukQM13eFyWGTd3VAd9hfRgTJRx9vKtthi5N4x_EVDiouIb58GA6_FeZHcsHKtCUWcZ0hsVqupRssTst1WiQU1eghvRTFQF7sBAZ8Qw/s1600/IMG_0634.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwMkQGlkb335wVSylyF2T7VqLXBeTjUbWGVS2wYgmSC3lm7JwQ1n2n1bWam2S_BlaANz58xt7XYGWjIXqenlEzbvKE9oW0TlOmJPnPafTBHs1ShkPNujwrL-Nk2GKg3NfhcbpE5ivDyrg/s400/IMG_3765.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588803776770170370" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /><div style="text-align: left;">Then a cookie with lardo and currant. Ok, so it was weird and interesting, but was it going to be good?</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyphenhyphenFi0vYnr_hph_NLfODVhOR3Ta1zF8qGuuovV6PIKI2wJ55-hj66Jytj9Cvdb4qa2GxzXt26GnoVL5buBZ-tQw5wUhVf-kYXgvFE9gRBG6K0rly5ITYMgv-yWAMYoWKN11qEE__7-Jyg/s400/IMG_3775.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588802386201548594" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /><div style="text-align: left;">The answer came in the form of this: rye bread, chicken skin, lump fish roe and smoked cheese. Remarkable.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUMftoWS4JJI4DQ1nk9zNXcrs-QbezSD-cavXIdo4UE1K7OMD6rv2iByOtSW-UiV54z7LnZZa7-Vsc1i9n2ffj8QiXBcF7JeAvdMBpE_TKeZDcusAm7l396I3pXHnJa6SiWo-ZUEj7U0k/s1600/IMG_0635.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUMftoWS4JJI4DQ1nk9zNXcrs-QbezSD-cavXIdo4UE1K7OMD6rv2iByOtSW-UiV54z7LnZZa7-Vsc1i9n2ffj8QiXBcF7JeAvdMBpE_TKeZDcusAm7l396I3pXHnJa6SiWo-ZUEj7U0k/s1600/IMG_0635.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUMftoWS4JJI4DQ1nk9zNXcrs-QbezSD-cavXIdo4UE1K7OMD6rv2iByOtSW-UiV54z7LnZZa7-Vsc1i9n2ffj8QiXBcF7JeAvdMBpE_TKeZDcusAm7l396I3pXHnJa6SiWo-ZUEj7U0k/s400/IMG_0635.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588803404650403474" style="text-align: left; display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;">Next came pickled and smoked quails egg and radish with edible soil and herbs. The eggs were gorgeous and silky and wonderful. The radish and "soil" seemed a bit gimmicky to me.</div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnqCkXFHONrnqLjVDnqsJosWA329uwsagmaGigHA9fPFKm8OL5JUARu-zSFXjOEQDyFGSn_QE0Z-6bh59udB5swMyzANmraOJj4DULVgFX1pw6ME0vVJiYVeQV93gdHmYh9dhhLx-LIsE/s1600/IMG_3771.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnqCkXFHONrnqLjVDnqsJosWA329uwsagmaGigHA9fPFKm8OL5JUARu-zSFXjOEQDyFGSn_QE0Z-6bh59udB5swMyzANmraOJj4DULVgFX1pw6ME0vVJiYVeQV93gdHmYh9dhhLx-LIsE/s400/IMG_3771.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588803064554290770" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPh11IP0cRsIXk6iowq2aR-MZtF_9O26X9OSWtxyVY_6iMSaF2cM2xWUcwAxffYiyAha0gtXkNsAX8Xd1lqule_VTw1yRzfgPZ46d8_qUkbNGq-x1wKVQpr2nFrqD5wqzehsTMlyOD3Z0/s1600/IMG_0642.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPh11IP0cRsIXk6iowq2aR-MZtF_9O26X9OSWtxyVY_6iMSaF2cM2xWUcwAxffYiyAha0gtXkNsAX8Xd1lqule_VTw1yRzfgPZ46d8_qUkbNGq-x1wKVQpr2nFrqD5wqzehsTMlyOD3Z0/s400/IMG_0642.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588802817246400946" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;">Then it was time to get Nordic. Aebleskier, a traditional Danish Christmas treat, this time with a little fish I forget the name of.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvMdUKYXRnALOZ-NmxtkiwDwAKI9IJlEuZukmuPxX4lAFQW9SQomsK_Ql4j7wJVNvFVaf3bJBWFLAXJYXD2YOxYtNqixgNltl4lLlpWvecSBEe2hmBO53W1yx7wUb3wZurBl5ZpRHK1pk/s1600/IMG_3777.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvMdUKYXRnALOZ-NmxtkiwDwAKI9IJlEuZukmuPxX4lAFQW9SQomsK_Ql4j7wJVNvFVaf3bJBWFLAXJYXD2YOxYtNqixgNltl4lLlpWvecSBEe2hmBO53W1yx7wUb3wZurBl5ZpRHK1pk/s400/IMG_3777.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588802159049984130" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;">We ate 'em whole and they were great.</div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9PBmvhyphenhyphen1JGQHwY5e94KghUmpE8B_85G1ljB9D51CqrOZIWxEO2q4Sc0gg054106n2zxRS9Cqv-n9zSboyKKwunM3KNyJSx9v224jLJC2IRR2DlREWW7NtPkybJxedXWSYt5NKR9RvkEQ/s1600/IMG_3779.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9PBmvhyphenhyphen1JGQHwY5e94KghUmpE8B_85G1ljB9D51CqrOZIWxEO2q4Sc0gg054106n2zxRS9Cqv-n9zSboyKKwunM3KNyJSx9v224jLJC2IRR2DlREWW7NtPkybJxedXWSYt5NKR9RvkEQ/s400/IMG_3779.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588801897226761122" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;">After the snacks, which were served with a delicious Danish white wine (yes, Danish wine) came the first course. Leek with sea weed jelly and bits of kelp reduction. Really unique.</div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMSJMNP12qEw94vPjcN0o-VjCL_GLANuBv3JMp5MOcHF6BcydzN_62lbQP1eZnMDiV2OADPDTd9Kj8cURus72bOC_Pb_INcC2Z4pUkTlfHIHdGyd57-iHbpGm8HcD5IfyDYVDKr8GFVx8/s1600/IMG_3780.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMSJMNP12qEw94vPjcN0o-VjCL_GLANuBv3JMp5MOcHF6BcydzN_62lbQP1eZnMDiV2OADPDTd9Kj8cURus72bOC_Pb_INcC2Z4pUkTlfHIHdGyd57-iHbpGm8HcD5IfyDYVDKr8GFVx8/s400/IMG_3780.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588801725563152914" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;">Then razor clam and dill oil with buttermilk and horseradish powder. These were served with a 2009 'Corps de Garde' Goisot Cotes d'Auxerre.</div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfPNXLAkafy2rFpqhZxQTpKNdS5dwBc67EWH5zEEZJxyN_qeA9DDHlwDA3KMbd8GQlfgS-4LzwmAwy26ukMSGpTkjf2LfXpDOQzURCaN8LWR6RUaDipB7hfkUT58Yx2NS9Z1PcElUn__g/s1600/IMG_3783.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfPNXLAkafy2rFpqhZxQTpKNdS5dwBc67EWH5zEEZJxyN_qeA9DDHlwDA3KMbd8GQlfgS-4LzwmAwy26ukMSGpTkjf2LfXpDOQzURCaN8LWR6RUaDipB7hfkUT58Yx2NS9Z1PcElUn__g/s400/IMG_3783.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588801541813043378" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;">Next was my personal favorite of the evening: thinly sliced and jerkyed scallops with beech nut, watercress, barley and squid ink. Absolutely otherworldly. Served with a 2009 Bourgogne Aligote Alice et Olivier de Moor from Chitry</div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicY0aENsCyj-mXJtSBTXEsl9Y0X4g2Ci5lBvMDLhemAcN5cDMnL8NpJxUg2_f-NEV3nPDmNc3IfGSJ1ONVbVTdgRm0MxserttgVlgZZB7uVHafK7a4dz65y1jo3Km6RsQrDhYj9V_G5ug/s1600/IMG_3786.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicY0aENsCyj-mXJtSBTXEsl9Y0X4g2Ci5lBvMDLhemAcN5cDMnL8NpJxUg2_f-NEV3nPDmNc3IfGSJ1ONVbVTdgRm0MxserttgVlgZZB7uVHafK7a4dz65y1jo3Km6RsQrDhYj9V_G5ug/s400/IMG_3786.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588801365318276114" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;">A close second was the shaved chestnut and lojrom (Swedish caviar) with cress and walnut. Rich! Served with a 2008 Riesling Federspiel "Steinriegel" from Wachau.</div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1uJCaSqSMAJmyRGBXrlpX_HOAQTNs8iJ7APv1Zh8fplMafrZJJgKAcfLnUFH0fHG-i1r6M2PzYw75X2ZMyMyQpmF1IWknc06GEaItX1iC3SGCZITGVXRnRSf4a3_D9rP4m_XOVU51URg/s1600/IMG_3792.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1uJCaSqSMAJmyRGBXrlpX_HOAQTNs8iJ7APv1Zh8fplMafrZJJgKAcfLnUFH0fHG-i1r6M2PzYw75X2ZMyMyQpmF1IWknc06GEaItX1iC3SGCZITGVXRnRSf4a3_D9rP4m_XOVU51URg/s400/IMG_3792.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588801197563120194" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;">Then things got challenging. The "Oyster and the Ocean." Oyster from north Jutland steamed with seaweed and rocks and topped with herbs picked from the beach the oysters were foraged from.</div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGJYvoyq9nvo5WfNwh8csNCgHq-taNkRzby70Db8xcigHbPDPSLGhNfRJRO8wqTdLJjLIlmOKydj0lO8zjHH3lS1pJAdsGVEvoHMbyZItn1_DG8KwbIlS251ItuUqQV9rvkPUwGVEe7RU/s1600/IMG_3793.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGJYvoyq9nvo5WfNwh8csNCgHq-taNkRzby70Db8xcigHbPDPSLGhNfRJRO8wqTdLJjLIlmOKydj0lO8zjHH3lS1pJAdsGVEvoHMbyZItn1_DG8KwbIlS251ItuUqQV9rvkPUwGVEe7RU/s400/IMG_3793.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588801053090468562" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;">This dish was like being transported to the beach in summer time. The smell was incredible. The taste was good. The texture, a challenge. But it was beautiful.</div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbyKJlXfIFH8jmRVEXDwCbE7GBSR3g_HBXSu2F_9fM60LxiX2gcvB4qfRB6F-hT_TfIX_pjXIc-c83wDuWKn_NaI8E5BJoO2wfScn2lPAyzFUqkQlTEEWt3ZNML8vx7Yldjn95wEJMO_s/s1600/IMG_3796.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbyKJlXfIFH8jmRVEXDwCbE7GBSR3g_HBXSu2F_9fM60LxiX2gcvB4qfRB6F-hT_TfIX_pjXIc-c83wDuWKn_NaI8E5BJoO2wfScn2lPAyzFUqkQlTEEWt3ZNML8vx7Yldjn95wEJMO_s/s400/IMG_3796.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588800882219105554" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;">Then a little respite. Onion and unripe grape juice with thyme and tapioca served with a 2009 Klaus Zimmerling Weissburgunder from Saxony.</div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlPHfSWImlHIjLwqduVGl35LaBwBqd1GCPottmJwNagTU8Y-csFcjNwd2dTWRBQm8YwVHI7lxK3efivdvtqnDSO1eOr7HpmgtzZ_Hmmed-7PuXgqC4vtOJ8_RU34qt-GwNKzmjq7UhhtY/s1600/IMG_3800.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlPHfSWImlHIjLwqduVGl35LaBwBqd1GCPottmJwNagTU8Y-csFcjNwd2dTWRBQm8YwVHI7lxK3efivdvtqnDSO1eOr7HpmgtzZ_Hmmed-7PuXgqC4vtOJ8_RU34qt-GwNKzmjq7UhhtY/s400/IMG_3800.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588800708359313650" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;">Celeriac with truffle with a 2008 Riesling Auslese trocken</div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSUb73cf_37lcyu_JdTxtetmxxHqRc5I0KO8rh9zWq6qtOSdzrhczws9KabrWqLEmXA-KqLLbmHGHGHnxWPO1oYWeDZ441I2pqYEM0Fi9VkDUp6rrTQgE2lwMF3rAwqbhNlDTTHeh3GF0/s1600/IMG_3801.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSUb73cf_37lcyu_JdTxtetmxxHqRc5I0KO8rh9zWq6qtOSdzrhczws9KabrWqLEmXA-KqLLbmHGHGHnxWPO1oYWeDZ441I2pqYEM0Fi9VkDUp6rrTQgE2lwMF3rAwqbhNlDTTHeh3GF0/s400/IMG_3801.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588800519604871634" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;">You will notice an extended focus on vegetables and white wine. It was light, Nordic, and very un-French. I loved it. The most beautiful dish was the pickled vegetables and bone marrow.</div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIJGhGFDIJ9hgP2KJxFPK__2HadfcJY2vO-lXhHvvuDKfWXuQHDOlTQ_ihjT7epLqXtZJnBPqD86uQpCeQ-K9xOTppETxomvYT6TfZZJ2sr0WtiiWNLk1s-xJ6oBlUA3MncLYzXsHYjpI/s1600/IMG_3805.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIJGhGFDIJ9hgP2KJxFPK__2HadfcJY2vO-lXhHvvuDKfWXuQHDOlTQ_ihjT7epLqXtZJnBPqD86uQpCeQ-K9xOTppETxomvYT6TfZZJ2sr0WtiiWNLk1s-xJ6oBlUA3MncLYzXsHYjpI/s400/IMG_3805.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588800338106300242" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;">The single meat focused dish of the evening was the Reindeer tongue and apple with malt and browned butter and blackened apple seeds, which was totally spectacular and served with a 2003 Barolo 'Giachina' from Piedmonte. The sole red wine served.</div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigQr3T4UHkD3ukW9-boqxTobFVSfINx9-0bOMkU2SbZnk036FKczHyHLHpcImvnhC3QqW4DdlQ2C44drRzbQCBBl8HofZ-N4veDlUwuQDCkR0O6aItB6HVSOwoTdQdMSPmQEfHmh_rdQA/s1600/IMG_3811.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigQr3T4UHkD3ukW9-boqxTobFVSfINx9-0bOMkU2SbZnk036FKczHyHLHpcImvnhC3QqW4DdlQ2C44drRzbQCBBl8HofZ-N4veDlUwuQDCkR0O6aItB6HVSOwoTdQdMSPmQEfHmh_rdQA/s400/IMG_3811.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588800146952178130" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;">Then dessert started subtlely, with the pear tree. Grilled pear with raw pear on top, seasoned with juniper and verbena. The green mass was a pine infused angel food cake-like accompaniment. Served with a 2009 Riesling Spatlese 'Von Horn' from Mosel.</div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwzMu6z7CSWH9O1lEuYR94KEkXo21JhU_UhAuZMGujyyrM1biriSqFfQhR4msARqHZ_2JpFLep7wEmpCSKJzASDmOei0DyPb5lGQe6UhhxarDT8wD8FVEm2F54lZSvzQSsf-wa6WSX3X8/s1600/IMG_3818.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwzMu6z7CSWH9O1lEuYR94KEkXo21JhU_UhAuZMGujyyrM1biriSqFfQhR4msARqHZ_2JpFLep7wEmpCSKJzASDmOei0DyPb5lGQe6UhhxarDT8wD8FVEm2F54lZSvzQSsf-wa6WSX3X8/s400/IMG_3818.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588799986369125570" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;">Next was the little snowman of sheeps milk and elderflower ice cream.</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitHSKTxnnjTceilGu2FmTgCsVo-CeWeDKLO23pBJVGWG6sBgJhde9lRwIEQPeRDer3XbhhAWGRUFYuyPCoWNdOvTktDqZzspUQSHjh-t-nkfua8JtaSG40MD4A1k2hrXNjxIpJwsiUAqo/s1600/IMG_3820.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitHSKTxnnjTceilGu2FmTgCsVo-CeWeDKLO23pBJVGWG6sBgJhde9lRwIEQPeRDer3XbhhAWGRUFYuyPCoWNdOvTktDqZzspUQSHjh-t-nkfua8JtaSG40MD4A1k2hrXNjxIpJwsiUAqo/s400/IMG_3820.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588799829262272226" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;">Murder the little guy and you got an explosion of berry.</div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaqwR1JhQ7mtsgKW3h8Qa58z_iqA5-ctFzSq5PwRkLa_Tfrq4-qRjz_kDgNuJdv6ILWx4fokE7SihD4DZMDbQmtPW7EYUQGSvDnqDhtfHI4p01pYNtFF4qY_zs7zbrDrKJMawID7gZm78/s1600/IMG_3822.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaqwR1JhQ7mtsgKW3h8Qa58z_iqA5-ctFzSq5PwRkLa_Tfrq4-qRjz_kDgNuJdv6ILWx4fokE7SihD4DZMDbQmtPW7EYUQGSvDnqDhtfHI4p01pYNtFF4qY_zs7zbrDrKJMawID7gZm78/s400/IMG_3822.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588799663705807170" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;">Finally a little walnut ice cream dust and berries with frozen cream, served with a 2009 'Le Cormier' from Coteaux du Layon. Pretty and sweet.</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I have never had a meal like this in my life. Thanks to Nan Na Hvass for her beautiful pictures (my camera died halfway through plus I am beginning to think I need to take a class in indoor night food photography if this blog is going to ever look decent!) I will go back to Copenhagen and Noma, without a doubt. What a special experience.</div></div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-88603475309137868692011-03-29T11:26:00.000-04:002011-04-03T18:50:47.268-04:00COPENHAGEN<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCrlg89wIVHmrMfb0cA3Z1ktfXeIt8KVor5QKCf5L25t2x-KpUSis6_3zQkFZG5VYIOJ9VQXru8o0f_7b97_aMvLHmwEwhwrRL9j71-VRR-aqf_Gg7SGcpbFVIUA8epfykmUB2uHsAz0A/s1600/IMG_0563.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCrlg89wIVHmrMfb0cA3Z1ktfXeIt8KVor5QKCf5L25t2x-KpUSis6_3zQkFZG5VYIOJ9VQXru8o0f_7b97_aMvLHmwEwhwrRL9j71-VRR-aqf_Gg7SGcpbFVIUA8epfykmUB2uHsAz0A/s400/IMG_0563.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591389446296782066" /></a>Besides seeing friends and biking around town (and Noma, of course) I wanted to take in some decorative arts and history in Copenhagen. Rosenborg Castle, in Kings Park, was the perfect place to do so; it's a small, well preserved repository of some of the finest objects from the 17th-19th centuries in all of Denmark. It also houses the Danish Royal Collections-- the crown jewels. Denmark has one of Europe's oldest continuous monarchies and the castle has many rooms that contain their original furnishings, tapestries, finishes and art.<div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjskUtoued5I1n5wKcGFaLSGi2JqbJE7nFHhWv6qv3Hh0sWxJzhlf5-fusBDBzzn7heUgGvsrYvde8d-PdszyD752p1VjJprdC34vib3gOu9ZLg533WGI5oyp4xuwODFrDxNYwamFWPDeA/s1600/IMG_0566.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjskUtoued5I1n5wKcGFaLSGi2JqbJE7nFHhWv6qv3Hh0sWxJzhlf5-fusBDBzzn7heUgGvsrYvde8d-PdszyD752p1VjJprdC34vib3gOu9ZLg533WGI5oyp4xuwODFrDxNYwamFWPDeA/s400/IMG_0566.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591389075322824674" /></a>The original structure was a smallish two story summer house built in 1606-7. Subsequent additions, mostly from the mid 17th century, gave the exterior of the building its current appearance. The earliest remaining interior spaces date from 1619 while other rooms were updated and furnished right up to the end of absolutist rule and the adoption of the constitutional monarchy in 1849. Above, green silk and printed gold wall covering in the king's private study, dating from 1700 behind a painting of Christian IV as a boy painted by Hans Knieper in 1585.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD9zS4QCmp8piZRlXHUJ52JxWYlBHE-2U9l_0htQRweGiZYnolaAoprBL9i1UiZU08Q-VCs4ngAizXykt-MPrilGWVZN6Yk9CWUGSKQXLAvVuVtoMbp5ILrk-7Ea-j8KO9ZbUxZ3VBi68/s1600/IMG_0567.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD9zS4QCmp8piZRlXHUJ52JxWYlBHE-2U9l_0htQRweGiZYnolaAoprBL9i1UiZU08Q-VCs4ngAizXykt-MPrilGWVZN6Yk9CWUGSKQXLAvVuVtoMbp5ILrk-7Ea-j8KO9ZbUxZ3VBi68/s400/IMG_0567.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591388704321240018" /></a>The desk in the king's private study, a scriptor made of ebony and gilt wood dating from 1580 and fabricated in Nuremburg. This desk was moved to Rosenborg in 1751 from Gottorp Castle in Germany (which was also a Danish Royal possession at the time and was essentially raided over the years for it's decorative goods).</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiELB8uEuv4-WIMjXqUdHPx67QW2Cr1TKeqtFIeMf38E_JptXuA6OloYlwW636brNy49UDxIDnHEyI0KmxzCEGfLqNS-mCzwYwtw04PzQvIsSMMtBJDLF0axx4rL_tAecXBWamHOZLvQk0/s1600/IMG_0568.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiELB8uEuv4-WIMjXqUdHPx67QW2Cr1TKeqtFIeMf38E_JptXuA6OloYlwW636brNy49UDxIDnHEyI0KmxzCEGfLqNS-mCzwYwtw04PzQvIsSMMtBJDLF0axx4rL_tAecXBWamHOZLvQk0/s400/IMG_0568.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591388290365393666" /></a>Chinoiserie panels with faux tortoise shell and silver painted frames in the king's private bedroom. The panels were originally lighter floral scenes, but were painted over in the 1660's by the fashion conscious king Frederick III.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEhsjvpQQhtoFuMlzYyh5jV_OhOvUz5asCERGLiJ2K0muTq-CUnIprUObKckzwenxgU7b6_SwuiJ6LGgPKYbQdf1b8deYb1jgOW3AFolffKhKwxnWLIQT0mWSrDn_OSk8fvGUwOrRc6jY/s1600/IMG_0569.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEhsjvpQQhtoFuMlzYyh5jV_OhOvUz5asCERGLiJ2K0muTq-CUnIprUObKckzwenxgU7b6_SwuiJ6LGgPKYbQdf1b8deYb1jgOW3AFolffKhKwxnWLIQT0mWSrDn_OSk8fvGUwOrRc6jY/s400/IMG_0569.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591387874169441858" /></a>Chinese porcelain figures (likely made for export to Europe) were installed in the room at the end of the 17th century. Aristocrats and royalty couldn't get enough of the exotic far east. Rosenborg was not immune to these trends and would have looked to the ultimate source of all things fashionable, Versailles, for inspiration.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmnJX4JdhEhutM0-b6XQhifkiMViHnqI_ZzPQv5E4JwUSw9w4m08i9PdgUBHnTHgIFYd0tiFTMGumBYKIkZClOaIyC4Y11owNS4ms-ReCozcsRp1lAuWnMc6-nZ0CNGC_vcYmnifwvtMQ/s1600/IMG_0575.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmnJX4JdhEhutM0-b6XQhifkiMViHnqI_ZzPQv5E4JwUSw9w4m08i9PdgUBHnTHgIFYd0tiFTMGumBYKIkZClOaIyC4Y11owNS4ms-ReCozcsRp1lAuWnMc6-nZ0CNGC_vcYmnifwvtMQ/s400/IMG_0575.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591387443236374370" /></a>A detail from the new king's chamber. That is Fredrick III on the left and the ebony with sycamore and bone inlay cabinet made by Lorenz Corbianus dates to 1679.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGyWKK_GC3BMcjCwvi7zR9ckljIP3N4ai3-5ktNE554KYYrGF4htXpo1RIQIEhnYhEpzihFj3X4AU682py8OUMMFQZd7g-q470M9sLApI-KJGXsdDXcaVVobxmUXOCwdQzflUIewl0qr8/s1600/IMG_0576.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGyWKK_GC3BMcjCwvi7zR9ckljIP3N4ai3-5ktNE554KYYrGF4htXpo1RIQIEhnYhEpzihFj3X4AU682py8OUMMFQZd7g-q470M9sLApI-KJGXsdDXcaVVobxmUXOCwdQzflUIewl0qr8/s400/IMG_0576.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591386980002746498" /></a>A Japaned wooden cabinet in the kings chamber.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_A8DtOB_V3Kit1Iky4wbbqmr7QRKKaUuZ6WjLRydXX9Eg8ajGWsloCy9nym0P7Egp4CFzQukrrYUnw_QjNkSRbrNTyl__77b4pvDBMzwhIf6WXuaQX4MnEpASebPh-jnWbjFfzzkuBTg/s1600/IMG_0580.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_A8DtOB_V3Kit1Iky4wbbqmr7QRKKaUuZ6WjLRydXX9Eg8ajGWsloCy9nym0P7Egp4CFzQukrrYUnw_QjNkSRbrNTyl__77b4pvDBMzwhIf6WXuaQX4MnEpASebPh-jnWbjFfzzkuBTg/s400/IMG_0580.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591386485476619650" /></a>A detail of the lacquering and bronze hardware.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_lo5OQfki9JS52k1lHw_cSuyfSkk51bu97h4D0Myaw8QTd3Ug0WDryCk7P53Pg1-Mp5u41ehPDqaM9N3INwWKzujkzJCk7QC-wY6RyDN8hkS24tzJQCg-buYLrQzY8KZRaUUbLJCQi3I/s1600/IMG_0583.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_lo5OQfki9JS52k1lHw_cSuyfSkk51bu97h4D0Myaw8QTd3Ug0WDryCk7P53Pg1-Mp5u41ehPDqaM9N3INwWKzujkzJCk7QC-wY6RyDN8hkS24tzJQCg-buYLrQzY8KZRaUUbLJCQi3I/s400/IMG_0583.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591385992952081058" /></a>This embossed leather wall covering is originally from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frederiksborg_Palace">Freidricksberg Palace</a>, one of the king's monarchy's country palaces.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjFsM4SKYxVNAl0303M9Kchl-N3k1JVuMy8_NYs1Qwpdw03vOwFJFSou7-6NkcyoN39rjMzpn0_WhYLJXif7rxmGKpEFpyOqA2hLc6Dc8yKlaKkr-LyCFGfjFJgiVocm3H9JozY4Dmlc0/s1600/IMG_0584.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjFsM4SKYxVNAl0303M9Kchl-N3k1JVuMy8_NYs1Qwpdw03vOwFJFSou7-6NkcyoN39rjMzpn0_WhYLJXif7rxmGKpEFpyOqA2hLc6Dc8yKlaKkr-LyCFGfjFJgiVocm3H9JozY4Dmlc0/s400/IMG_0584.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591385639910188082" /></a>The lacquered panels of a small "princesses chamber" on the second floor. The room was used by the king for private conversations with diplomats and advisers off the Frederik IV room, a main reception hall nearby.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv8VGJcp5VPW29cliZU89jqw0_9L4tk7Bnpo1mtV1yFfQ7BDa55hcP1xKFfYOMTtRxhRwcv2CNA5mYxFFJdxywpwNxpRocCkGfBiwAhx0Mp-EcQLllg_o9jFb1IEK7YSCKgRKrRDz8Jl0/s1600/IMG_0585.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv8VGJcp5VPW29cliZU89jqw0_9L4tk7Bnpo1mtV1yFfQ7BDa55hcP1xKFfYOMTtRxhRwcv2CNA5mYxFFJdxywpwNxpRocCkGfBiwAhx0Mp-EcQLllg_o9jFb1IEK7YSCKgRKrRDz8Jl0/s400/IMG_0585.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591385263851512882" /></a>Tortoise and mother of pearl bits imbeded in the lacquer.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC-9zlQuEqxr3ma7aFjSMFO-fDQlrvFEf8xPYZn8V9gCWQBdVzAY1zTdwbV4hDwBCiwvs1QDC84Usebf3cH7vQlgqP2vGCjoOISG5BlmyiPhITxTOn0jMfr25ZVsHTlVKOtIImxYtIfzk/s1600/IMG_0592.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC-9zlQuEqxr3ma7aFjSMFO-fDQlrvFEf8xPYZn8V9gCWQBdVzAY1zTdwbV4hDwBCiwvs1QDC84Usebf3cH7vQlgqP2vGCjoOISG5BlmyiPhITxTOn0jMfr25ZVsHTlVKOtIImxYtIfzk/s400/IMG_0592.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591384807343278482" /></a>Frederik IV's room. Originally a reception hall, it was made smaller in 1700 and converted to an antichamber for the king's sister.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF3XstS6xWfpa_IWWDGzNG0AI_grv1OOT01MOx4nlOSjbQdyE_8sW5dFQTvxQSLpNdHSBE5k6F2Kp5rF7BdybiF3ASeZcdptao1aTf4zl7fYt7McIMTF6taT4Xpu2OLvDhlH0n08z_tEw/s1600/IMG_0593.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF3XstS6xWfpa_IWWDGzNG0AI_grv1OOT01MOx4nlOSjbQdyE_8sW5dFQTvxQSLpNdHSBE5k6F2Kp5rF7BdybiF3ASeZcdptao1aTf4zl7fYt7McIMTF6taT4Xpu2OLvDhlH0n08z_tEw/s400/IMG_0593.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591383975139518402" /></a>Dutch tapestries, a semi-precious stone inlaid cabinet, and a Viennese rock crystal chandelier. After a while, it became a blur of room after room of priceless objects.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAlzfIA8X6moTIoyIW9i4cTQ5Sp2YtI4K3YDyDEGo6IElvrN0TP8N7V-URkUFsZ1c9qg8HZIdRUel5P2k7kglj_c0Kf5pWeRSxTP2d3lt-MxE-YVVV-8Xljzcpu5Fq_fnd0eI5YuLNVs4/s1600/IMG_0595.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAlzfIA8X6moTIoyIW9i4cTQ5Sp2YtI4K3YDyDEGo6IElvrN0TP8N7V-URkUFsZ1c9qg8HZIdRUel5P2k7kglj_c0Kf5pWeRSxTP2d3lt-MxE-YVVV-8Xljzcpu5Fq_fnd0eI5YuLNVs4/s400/IMG_0595.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591383480066967538" /></a>And then a little glimpse into the dirtier side of things... this little mirrored room. No doubt inspired by the hall of mirrors at Versailles, but with a distinctly less formal function, the cabinet of mirrors features a mirror in the floor, making it easy to see up the skirts of visiting ladies. There was also an adjacent room that held the king's collection of erotica and a daybed for "resting." A glimpse into the very private part of royalty, which I think must be rare in tours of grand palaces and castles in Europe.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXjFBoEqGQ0S7oQEqoad39Gg9W9SIf5Ljw_NSVzsdcv37c9bjBGR9SVdcFJ0Tv4A-ZoBWngAg_7oYXgdEVpEyWC59hO4pzIBbg9l4eI_bRF9zoEAzjqSXi39MZZyGYPBGlFh89xqCWUQY/s1600/IMG_0596.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXjFBoEqGQ0S7oQEqoad39Gg9W9SIf5Ljw_NSVzsdcv37c9bjBGR9SVdcFJ0Tv4A-ZoBWngAg_7oYXgdEVpEyWC59hO4pzIBbg9l4eI_bRF9zoEAzjqSXi39MZZyGYPBGlFh89xqCWUQY/s400/IMG_0596.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591383026189040562" /></a>A carved amber chandelier from 1746-53.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUeNJU628Emt15VlocazHEgJOHKskf8qbz7aUbtxRLukn38q3AKPhBPi-q-AG2T3xI7SSpZqTuA3NZvyDHzXXjJZ2z6lksBGhEUyWYvNjxFmV8p8HA2LIwpbTkg9DL6L2chbJE_Q_ESxU/s1600/IMG_0598.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUeNJU628Emt15VlocazHEgJOHKskf8qbz7aUbtxRLukn38q3AKPhBPi-q-AG2T3xI7SSpZqTuA3NZvyDHzXXjJZ2z6lksBGhEUyWYvNjxFmV8p8HA2LIwpbTkg9DL6L2chbJE_Q_ESxU/s400/IMG_0598.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591382591294401090" /></a>In a room decorated by Christian VIII in the empire style dating from 1820. Once again, France (at this point Napoleonic France) serving as the axis of style.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHwZ8L7U0mHeGA8MM_HL3JhDWFCWs_1RT4Sjh_hMT8sAZiAMWd8j04c7slgoVipZVx4LTHIYFpOrCzWoj9_D0CifdmuCNDr-Z-x7bTu-Rd579Jv9NNtzYimKQRAANG6cwTjwUgOcF8WFw/s1600/IMG_0602.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHwZ8L7U0mHeGA8MM_HL3JhDWFCWs_1RT4Sjh_hMT8sAZiAMWd8j04c7slgoVipZVx4LTHIYFpOrCzWoj9_D0CifdmuCNDr-Z-x7bTu-Rd579Jv9NNtzYimKQRAANG6cwTjwUgOcF8WFw/s400/IMG_0602.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591382272364124722" /></a>On the third floor, the throne room. These huge silver lions are still used in official royal/state ceremonies today. This was an interesting reminder that the royal family is still very connected to all of the items in the castle.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizrFGT3AUsy7mKyPPGh0pVLrA6FyWDbfjEDTMIruYvrf1CAfr5X4_Mv21NhJUfi7YQqrP0ngcugjHoBbhC81yltHvobRinz-gAkg9bqGajINywma9mP1SkTS9FuZ2Xu2sFrnXq7t8Asr0/s1600/IMG_0603.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizrFGT3AUsy7mKyPPGh0pVLrA6FyWDbfjEDTMIruYvrf1CAfr5X4_Mv21NhJUfi7YQqrP0ngcugjHoBbhC81yltHvobRinz-gAkg9bqGajINywma9mP1SkTS9FuZ2Xu2sFrnXq7t8Asr0/s400/IMG_0603.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591381920610063394" /></a>Just before leaving I came across the Porcelain and Glass Cabinets. Spaces devoted to the display of the royal collection of rare china and glassware.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2vF1JsmScxzuuBzqcOzbsVdZwSYRbKobQUotphdQDW70xaha1EZP1VMLA0eXuq22WdYKn1mRHVYUt2ANFjNuPWRXnUc4saRNtTYZgPqjdycf0_aO6NBD2N5h0xMcB8SSvsd6Jjb-VeE4/s1600/IMG_0608.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2vF1JsmScxzuuBzqcOzbsVdZwSYRbKobQUotphdQDW70xaha1EZP1VMLA0eXuq22WdYKn1mRHVYUt2ANFjNuPWRXnUc4saRNtTYZgPqjdycf0_aO6NBD2N5h0xMcB8SSvsd6Jjb-VeE4/s400/IMG_0608.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591379589073275442" /></a>The Glass Cabinet may have been the highlight of the entire castle. It was built by Frederik IV when he purchased a collection of Venetian glass in 1709. The room, with its pyramid form displays covered in marbled paper and gilt lead. It was just spectacular.</div><div><br /></div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6147807649266075837.post-892824451233689892011-03-21T22:01:00.001-04:002011-04-03T22:25:50.392-04:00WINTER<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU7GlfXpyIeQXCnJKWgX29p4MfbmCKqfnFto9uCsGxyvfSlsll5kTL1vHH0gNkRNdsM3qdz3gKIWEr_OoZz0wWX4o1QdzYzYhDYgMBBclk34PPAFXD0J2ayRcMTmkBxZOHRa8_gKZf8g4/s1600/IMG_0205.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 298px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU7GlfXpyIeQXCnJKWgX29p4MfbmCKqfnFto9uCsGxyvfSlsll5kTL1vHH0gNkRNdsM3qdz3gKIWEr_OoZz0wWX4o1QdzYzYhDYgMBBclk34PPAFXD0J2ayRcMTmkBxZOHRa8_gKZf8g4/s400/IMG_0205.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591545268254673362" /></a>The winter of 2010-11 has been pretty brutal. Multiple record breaking snowstorms, days and days with highs in the 20's, and while it's now spring... it's still cold. I have spent almost all my waking hours these past four months working long days on several interiors projects, both for myself (pictures coming this summer, I hope!) and Laura Kirar. Also, I got to take a few short breaks from the soul-numbing cold to warmer climates, and one frozen trip to Cape Cod to work on logistics for the upcomming summer wedding. It has been a productive, satisfying, stressful and impossibly long winter, and I am glad it's almost over. Below are some highlights. Welcome, spring!<div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-OKiwJvzdIB03ysUgX3rakp3am6N6BoZqDX56DcPDhiyBjB1elR6SgxY-9Th8Nm_G2aKzum9RHNj6Nb7uLr5Fud5V7qPdcXZ19CjixM4ApLHC5PPac11kRkMFkprPUWgJsK-fHua3f4g/s1600/IMG_0522.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 391px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-OKiwJvzdIB03ysUgX3rakp3am6N6BoZqDX56DcPDhiyBjB1elR6SgxY-9Th8Nm_G2aKzum9RHNj6Nb7uLr5Fud5V7qPdcXZ19CjixM4ApLHC5PPac11kRkMFkprPUWgJsK-fHua3f4g/s400/IMG_0522.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591545089377898866" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8SO55DUP_b9vF1bTDFs0AqBVD-iudH0x5hXos1YKWfvBrYV2ozihT-HN0ADqhcr42MSzH3RHXWPEs8hPVeCYeZDKWBTxzilvbyqSUxmn9U7m1UKa0vsB8Po2PdlpRcVgnw2UnvvukaMY/s1600/IMG_0520.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 391px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8SO55DUP_b9vF1bTDFs0AqBVD-iudH0x5hXos1YKWfvBrYV2ozihT-HN0ADqhcr42MSzH3RHXWPEs8hPVeCYeZDKWBTxzilvbyqSUxmn9U7m1UKa0vsB8Po2PdlpRcVgnw2UnvvukaMY/s400/IMG_0520.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591545020908090162" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0xz99nPbJpCrgNgUZgpCcTdz0ytgqM6ungkOUstlypezjcH0DRIZzADAcGL0RpyE0e5suvIYXPCFPIE0IZyZKf14TFGJPf6XKFWLk7YGezDSM0LMiBSSGUHAIeyVojim019af5lOpY_M/s1600/IMG_0518.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 391px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0xz99nPbJpCrgNgUZgpCcTdz0ytgqM6ungkOUstlypezjcH0DRIZzADAcGL0RpyE0e5suvIYXPCFPIE0IZyZKf14TFGJPf6XKFWLk7YGezDSM0LMiBSSGUHAIeyVojim019af5lOpY_M/s400/IMG_0518.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591544916744498194" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiYVxnMNNnCBRc3DgsaTH1TFjZqCgIR69x_4Cphs_ZJg_WCwK6rdtGwD5nLnwTzaPBe_MGT62eAuhrlsM4XMsVWEVL_7Zulmie2b4H1mvltRMFLpAH-bSwSiXW3OAOmBTX21UZklfC4rA/s1600/IMG_0516.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 391px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiYVxnMNNnCBRc3DgsaTH1TFjZqCgIR69x_4Cphs_ZJg_WCwK6rdtGwD5nLnwTzaPBe_MGT62eAuhrlsM4XMsVWEVL_7Zulmie2b4H1mvltRMFLpAH-bSwSiXW3OAOmBTX21UZklfC4rA/s400/IMG_0516.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591544804738182098" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvFvm5sUBMpSldc-3N6xkMmIj45AAk_Dj3Qs5aFwVy43QxmmWAy2OZIVhrrkawj24cwQ_DWJhxge-KtZnEXaDePXnot90culzoiTLn6e-f-OHh_s4rQlR5DJujveeB2rfC1tZufAPNAsE/s1600/IMG_0512.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 391px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvFvm5sUBMpSldc-3N6xkMmIj45AAk_Dj3Qs5aFwVy43QxmmWAy2OZIVhrrkawj24cwQ_DWJhxge-KtZnEXaDePXnot90culzoiTLn6e-f-OHh_s4rQlR5DJujveeB2rfC1tZufAPNAsE/s400/IMG_0512.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591544708717698418" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK6kDN_aRgPIHoRObnouRl6IF2IVhG7x9vbIC-BuLKSgazbx5N1yuJMggj5budRfCOLlEjDJoOUCs_jgFMuGRWeXkvz4HITmzm28v1nsdiWIK8PYxNFy0yYVCYxJiI2IkLRonxJjRZclQ/s1600/IMG_0489.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; 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margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrJBuiQ5xEfcLclMrKffZEAYZmTUXaWvav2JIBjtCaAcrOs-0GJPCFyfneAXFvWY1hpf9ndywXGUToNXWxTgccYl5QX5L6pUpz6YnoBHjuVSN2HEugtqZpVNB4q-bvIZg89If3gwT3Yjc/s400/IMG_0093.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591542790521719858" /></a><br /></div>A HAWK FROM A HANDSAWhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15986700674429756229noreply@blogger.com0